His Resolve/Transcript

*“It’s scary because, out on the road like this, the way we’re changing - it’s hard to tell if what we’re doing now is right or wrong.”* *—Randall*

**Starring:**

Robert Pattinson as WILLIAM REYNES

Emilia Clarke as KATE BLOODSTONE

Nick Frost as RANDALL FORSTER

Jon Hamm as JON MATTHEWS

Anson Mount as MARCUS DOWNES

Scarlett Johansson as REBECCA DAWSON

Kenneth Branagh as CLYDE ROLLINS

Stephen Gevedon as DEAN HOWARDS

Steve J. Palmer as AUSTIN KINGSTON

Tom Holland as LLOYD WALLER

Robin Lord Taylor as EDWARD REMAR

David Emge as ALDUS PAXTON

**Also Starring**

Dan Aykroyd as ED ANDERSON

Keira Knightley as CLAIRE NOBLE

Daniel Sharman as DANIEL ROCKWELL

Paul Rudd as SOLOMON REED

Chris Evans as KURT KLEIN

**Guest Starring**

Colin Ford as BRENDEN TREVORS

David Boat as LAYTON ZIMMERS

Anthony Mackie as LANDON KIMBER

Talulah Riley as MOLLY MASSEY

Angela Sarafyan as BONNIE HARRELL

Christopher Mintz-Plasse as ELLIOTT ROWE

Martin Cummins as CARSON BURKE

Sean Gunn as STANLEY PECK

Ritchie Coster as LEONARD THORNE

Kat Dennings as NANCY WARNER

Bill Nighy as CALVIN SCHULTZ

Matt Bomer as AIDAN ELDRIDGE

**Co-Starring**

Hannah Gross as ABIGAIL BROOKS

Skylar Gaertner as JESSE GARNETT

Charles Melton as LUKE BUTLER

Eduard Parsehyan as WESLEY RANDOLPH

Marietta Marich as JEANNE RANDOLPH

Marlene Forte as MARISA PENA

Joe Chrest as RANDY DASLING

Bill Brenton as HERMAN MEYERS

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**Scene #1**

**FOREST - CABIN**

The wind howls outside of the cabin, as AIDAN ELDRIDGE sits by a window, staring out. After a moment, he sighs, and gets up, walking over to take a seat in the living room beside ABIGAIL BROOKS and JESSE GARNETT, a young boy.

***Abigail:*** *I can stay up tonight - keep watch if you’d like.*

***Aidan: (Quickly)*** *No. No, no, I’ll stay up.*

Aidan takes a glance around the room, his eyes darting from RANDY DASLING, who’s fast asleep in another chair, over to LUKE BUTLER in the corner, air-boxing, and finally over towards the elderly WESLEY RANDOLPH and JEANNE RANDOLPH, the former of which is lying down on a mattress, his skin pale, his eyes hardly open.

***Aidan:*** *Is everyone doing alright - I think dinner should be ready soon.*

Wesley lets out a raspy cough, as he reaches for a tissue, coughing into it. He shakes his head, looking at the blood that was now covering the tissue.

Randy snorts as he wakes up, looking around confused, seeming to forget where he is.

***Randy:*** *Is it time for my programs to come on? You know, at first I was pissed I couldn’t get the bed, as a full blooded American that was my right. But this chair has proven itself to be much more worthy.*

MARISA PENA steps out of the kitchen, looking around at everyone.

***Marisa:*** *Everyone. Dinner will be ready in five minutes.*

***Aidan: (He nods)*** *Thanks, Marisa.*

Jeanne frowns, looking down at her ill husband.

***Jeanne:*** *There’s no telling how much time he has left, Aidan. It’s looking like he only has days if we can’t find something to help him. I hope that God will help us. I pray every night that he gets better, or a miracle happens…*

***Marisa:*** *Jeanne. Would you like me to help you in getting Wesley to the dining room?*

***Jeanne:*** *Yes, that’d be very helpful.*

Randy grunts, sinking into his chair.

***Randy:*** *Bring me my dinner if you may, my body is just so tired from all my hard work. Also, turn my programs on, I’m missing the golden girls.*

Marisa approaches Wesley, beginning to help him up into his wheelchair.

***Marisa:*** *How are you feeling today, Wesley?*

***Wesley:*** *My lungs still hurt. I-- I feel like shit.*

***Aidan:*** *I think I’ll try my luck at that pharmacy again. Might be something there for-- for Wesley.*

***Wesley: (Mumbling)*** *There’s either jackshit or there’s gonna be something. Since we ran out of oxygen tanks a cou-- couple of weeks back, I think God just wants to take a giant shit on me. Piece of shit--*

***Jeanne:*** *There’ll be something. I’m sure of it.*

***Randy:*** *HEY! Do YA’ HEAR ME? What does a hard working man have to do around here for some good service?*

***Luke:*** *You guys… are a bore. And this… sucks ass.*

Luke, grumbling, heads towards the front door, stepping outside. Aidan watches as he goes, shaking his head in anger.

***Randy:*** *Fine! I will do it myself!*

Randy grunts, leaning forward to try and reach the remote, but he doesn’t get it, and immediately slumps back down.

***Randy:*** *Well, I tried.*

Wesley is sat down in the wheelchair, groaning in pain.

***Marisa:*** ***(To Jeanne)*** *Go on and wheel him through to the dining room, hon. I’ll be through soon.*

***Jeanne:*** *Okay.*

Jeanne grabs the wheelchair, pushing it into the kitchen.

***Marisa:*** *Aidan. Go and fetch Luke, will you? I don’t want him missing dinner again in a strop. He needs to eat.*

***Aidan:*** *Right, I’ll go get him.*

***Marisa:*** *And Randy. You get your butt through to the dining room as well.*

***Randy:*** *Marisa, be a good samaritan and bring me my dinner. My body is just too tense from all my hard work.*

***Marisa:*** *Just stop it, Randy. None of us need this right now. Dining room. Go.*

***Randy:*** *But Marisa! The chair calls, and I answer.*

***Marisa:*** *Fine. We’ll eat without you.*

She turns, storming back into the kitchen.

***Randy:*** *WAHH?! But what about all my clever table side jokes?!*

Abigail kneels down beside Jesse.

***Abigail:*** *Come on, dinner’s ready.*

Jesse sighs, closing his notebook, and going to follow her into the kitchen.

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**Scene #2**

**FOREST - CABIN - EVENING**

AIDAN ELDRIDGE steps onto the front porch, looking down at LUKE BUTLER, who’s sitting on the steps.

***Aidan:*** *Luke?*

***Luke:*** *What is it?*

***Aidan:*** *You gonna come inside? Dinner’s going to get cold - you need to eat.*

***Luke:*** *Yeah, yeah… just give me a sec. Surprised we can even afford the resources to have dinner.*

Luke stands, brushing himself off.

***Aidan:*** *Luke, I know we aren’t in the best of circumstances here, but we’re doing our best. I mean--* ***(He sighs)*** *Nevermind - just come inside, eat dinner.*

***Luke:*** *Yeah… doin’ our best, huh? Maybe if we got out of this dump, we’d be doing a little better.*

Luke walks past him, stepping back into the house.

***Aidan:*** *God dammit…*

He shakes his head, following him inside.

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**Scene #3**

**FOREST - CABIN**

The group sits together at the dinner table, with plates with small portions of beans, peas and potatoes in front of them.

***Marisa:*** *Before we eat, we should say prayer.*

MARISA PENA holds out her hands, prompting the others to hold hands with those beside them. Everyone sitting at the table does so, except for LUKE BUTLER, who stubbornly keeps his hands on the table.

***Marisa:*** *Luke, are you not going to partake? We should be thanking God for this meal.*

***Luke:*** *What’s that gonna do for us?*

***Marisa:*** *Maybe things will get better. Maybe Wesley will get better.*

Luke turns to WESLEY RANDOLPH beside him, sighs, and grabs onto his hand.

***Marisa:*** *Randy! Are you going to join us or not?*

Out in the living room, RANDY DASLING flips through a newspaper, reading a Garfield cartoon comic.

***Randy:*** *Hah! Garfield, you really are a hoot.*

Sighing, Marisa shakes her head.

***Marisa:*** *Okay everyone. We thank you lord for the food that is on our table. We are grateful that we are still here, and although the days are long and hard, and times are tough, we will continue to get through them in hopes that things will get better. May we stay strong, and as one. Amen.*

***Aidan:*** *Amen.*

***Jeanne:*** *Amen.*

***Wesley: (He coughs)*** *Amen.*

***Abigail:*** *Amen.*

***Jesse: (Quietly)*** *Amen.*

***Randy: (From across the house)*** *Amen!*

***Marisa:*** *Okay everyone. Dig in.*

***Randy:*** *HAHA! Hear this! Garfield’s lasagna got spilled! God, what a hoot!*

The people at the dinner table begin to slowly pick at the food, eating what little they have. It’s silence all around the table, nothing but the clinks of cutlery against the plates being heard. Abigail looks up at Marisa.

***Abigail:*** *The food’s good…* ***(She smiles)***

***Marisa: (She smiles back)*** *Oh, I know it’s nothing special, but - thank you. All we can do these days is--*

Marisa falls quiet, hearing something from out in the woods.

***Herman:*** *HEYYYYYY! HELP ME! ANYONE!*

***Randy:*** *God damn it… I think it’s those kids from next door… LUKE, GO HIT THEM WITH A BAT! RUINING MY TIME OF ENJOYMENT!*

***Wesley:*** *Who the shit is that? I didn’t know corpses could talk.*

***Jeanne:*** *Maybe my prayers have been answered.*

***Wesley:*** *I’m telling you, God is a piece of shit. He wouldn’t have let the rapture happen, but no, he had to just to take out the ol--* ***(He breaks into a cough)***

AIDAN ELDRIDGE and Marisa stand up, both approaching the window, glancing out.

***Aidan:*** *The hell was that…?*

***Luke:*** *Doesn’t matter, let’s go check.*

Luke stands, starting to approach the front door, but he stops, noticing a large man running up to the door, huffing.

***Herman:*** *Hey! Please! I see lights! You have to let me in! Please!*

Luke unbolts the door, throwing it open.

***Herman:*** *Oh-- oh thank you so much! Thank you so much!*

HERMAN MEYERS waddles through the door, breathless.

***Aidan: (Quietly)*** *Shit.*

***Randy:*** *CLOSE THE DOOR! LETTING ALL THE FRESH AIR OUT!*

Luke shuts the door quickly, bolting it back shut.

***Aidan:*** *Hey - man, what’s going on? Why were you screaming? I didn’t see anything.*

***Randy: (He sits up)*** *What’s going on?*

***Herman:*** *I’m sorry - I was all alone out there -- the dead ones - they-- they scare me.*

***Wesley: (Under his breath)*** *Fatass.*

***Aidan:*** *The dead ones - were they following you?*

Herman stumbles past Aidan into the kitchen, completely ignoring his question.

***Herman:*** *You… you don’t know how grateful I am. My name’s Herman Meyers. Oh, do you have food? I’m starving!*

***Marisa:*** *I can do my best to put something together for you.*

***Herman:*** *Oh thank you so much, ma’am.*

***Aidan:*** *Uh-huh…*

Aidan walks back to the window, looking out, wary.

***Randy:*** *Marisa! Don’t give this… exercise ball some of our food!*

***Marisa:*** *Randy, that’s enough. You’re in no position to insult anybody. God has delivered this man to our doorstep… We will help him. Have you no compassion?*

***Herman:*** *Yeah, man. What she said.*

***Randy:*** *Well… I am an American, I do not know what that word means.*

***Herman:*** *I’m sorry - I’m just so hungry.*

Herman starts to pick beans off of JESSE GARNETT’s plate, shoving them down his throat hastily.

***Aidan:*** *Herman - you didn’t answer me. Did anything follow you?*

***Herman:*** *Follow me? Oh. Oh, I don’t think so. I mean they were - but-- those things aren’t smart, right? They won’t know I came here.*

***Randy:*** *Yeah, and we thought minorities weren’t smart.*

***Luke:*** *So… what. Another extra large mouth to fill? That’s all that was? Nah, fuck that.*

Marisa notices a single zombie emerging over a small hill and stumbling towards the cabin.

***Marisa:*** *Aidan.*

***Aidan:*** *I knew it--*

***Wesley: (He coughs)*** *We’re gonna die.*

***Jeanne:*** *No we won’t, dear. Just give God a chance. Please.*

***Marisa:*** *It’s okay - it’s only one. We should be okay. Remain calm, everyone.*

***Aidan:*** *Let me deal with it - you’re right, probably just one of them.*

As Aidan starts heading for the door, he notices another zombie following the first -- then another. Soon, more than thirty zombies are seen stumbling over the hill and towards the cabin.

***Herman:*** *I mean… they can’t… they can’t know we’re in here, surely.*

***Marisa:*** *Aidan!*

***Randy:*** *What the fuck is going on…*

***Jesse:*** *What’s going on?*

Aidan steps away from the windows, shaking his head.

***Aidan:*** *We need to leave-- leave NOW!*

***Herman:*** *Oh my god, the dead! The dead!*

Zombies begin to surround the home, banging on the front door and the windows. Aidan starts to run around the house, looking for a way out.

***Wesley:*** *Someone-- someone just make a molotov or something, it could buy us time. I’ve been starving.*

***Randy:*** *THE DEAD?! WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?! LUKE, HELP ME CARRY MY RECLINER, I CAN’T LEAVE IT!*

***Luke:*** ***(Looking outside at the zombies)*** *Aw, come on… as if it couldn’t get any worse. It’s the fatty’s fault, we should let the dead introduce themselves to him. Plenty of feasting there. It’d buy us a ton of time.*

***Herman:*** *Please! I’m so scared!*

***Aidan:*** *Grab a weapon! Anything!*

A window smashes in the living room, a zombie reaching its arm through, snarling. A second one joins it. People start to grab kitchen knives, anything they can get.

***Randy:*** *LUKE - WHAT THE FUCK?! IT’S THE MINORITIES, THEY’VE COME FOR MY CHAIR!*

***Luke:*** *Give it a rest, Randy. Just get up, we’re goin’. We’ll come back for your chair one day.*

Luke grabs Randy by the arm and pulls him up.

***Wesley:*** *Shit!*

***Herman:*** *I CAN’T DO THIS!*

Herman darts for the back door, where, in his panicked state, he doesn’t notice the zombies on the other side of the door.

***Marisa:*** *STOP!*

***Aidan:*** *WAIT!*

Herman swings open the back door, and zombies immediately pile in, throwing themselves onto Herman.

***Herman:*** *NO! NO! HELP ME! PLEASE!*

The zombies start to tear into Herman, tearing out chunks of his flesh.

***Wesley:*** *You dumb motherfucker!*

Herman gurgles, as he takes his last breaths.

***Randy:*** *NO! LOOK AT THE FLOOR -- HIS BLOOD IS GOING TO RUIN IT!*

***Marisa:*** *Aidan! What are we going to do?!*

***Luke:*** *Aw… great. Come on, upstairs!*

***Aidan:*** *Follow him! We can climb down from there!*

Aidan slashes his knife at a zombie, and kicks another one back, clearing the way for the others to run to the stairs.

***Marisa:*** *Aidan! You’ll have to carry Wesley!*

***Wesley:*** *You better not drop me.*

***Jeanne: (To Aidan)*** *I’ll cover you!*

Aidan pockets his knife, charging over to Wesley, speedily picking him up out of his wheelchair.

***Aidan:*** *I’ve got you.*

Marisa grabs her cross necklace, her hands shaking.

***Marisa:*** *Satan has sent his demons after us.*

ABIGAIL BROOKS runs with Jesse over to the stairs, running up after Luke. Randy barges up behind them.

***Randy:*** *MOVEEEEEE!*

Aidan starts to rush towards the stairs with Wesley, JEANNE RANDOLPH covering them.

***Wesley:*** *My back! My back!*

***Aidan:*** *Hold on!*

Aidan, Wesley and Jeanne finally make it up the stairs, and are quickly followed by Marisa, just before the zombies start heading up the stairs after them.

***Jeanne:*** *I think that’s everyone. Is it?*

***Aidan:*** *That’s everyone - come on!*

Luke throws some small objects down the stairs, hitting the one in front, causing it to tumble back and slip, knocking over a bunch of others.

***Randy:*** *MOVEEEE ITTT OR LOSEE IT!*

***Aidan:*** *We need a way out-- look for a window or something.*

***Marisa:*** *THEY ARE COMING UP!*

Marisa yells out, tears streaming down her cheeks, as zombies start to climb back up, reaching the top of the stairs. Luke rushes into one of the bedrooms upstairs, swinging his bat at the window a few times until it shatters. Aidan follows him in, still carrying Wesley.

***Aidan:*** *In here - quickly!*

***Luke:*** *Everyone outside!*

Abigail, Jesse and Jeanne rush into the room -- while Marisa and Randy get separated.

Marisa holds her necklace tightly as she continues to back up, zombies following after her. Eventually, she’s backed into a bathroom.

***Marisa:*** *NO! NO! ALL OF YOU -- GET OUT OF HERE! GO BACK TO HELL!*

She screams as the zombies pin her against the wall, tearing into her, ripping her apart.

***Jeanne:*** *MARISA, NOO!*

Randy sprints into a different bedroom than the others, where he finds another window. He struggles to open the window, but he eventually does. Quickly, he starts to climb out-- until he feels a hand grab his foot, ripping him back into the cabin. Randy hits the floor, yelling as zombies pile onto him, devouring him in seconds.

Luke hops out of the smashed open window first, landing on the grass outside. Aidan shakes his head, hearing the screams of Marisa and Randy fall silent.

***Aidan:*** *Just-- go out the window!*

Jeanne climbs out of the window next, slowly. She carefully hops down.

***Wesley:*** *GET ME OUTSIDE, PLEASE, AIDAN!*

***Jeanne:*** *Someone help me grab Wesley!*

Luke waits below the window, as Aidan carefully moves the old man through the window, lowers him as low as he can, then lets go. Luke catches him at the bottom, with Jeanne’s help.

***Wesley:*** *SWEET JESUS! I DON’T WANNA DO THAT AGAIN!*

***Jeanne:*** *It’s okay, Wesley! You’re okay!*

Jesse speedily climbs out the window next, as zombies start to enter the room, hobbling towards them. When Jesse is safely out and on the ground below, Abigail starts to climb out. But as she’s going out, she accidently falls, her arm getting caught on a piece of broken glass on the way down, practically cutting open her entire forearm. She falls to the ground, landing awkwardly on an ankle, spraining it.

***Aidan:*** *Abigail!*

As zombies close in on Aidan, the last man inside the house, he climbs through the window and jumps down, immediately helping the injured Abigail up, carrying her.

***Wesley:*** *I hope that fat fuck burns in hell for this-- fucking piece of shit--*

Luke rushes towards the small back fence with Wesley still in his arms. Because of its small height, he easily climbs over while still carrying Wesley. Jeanne climbs over after him, followed by Jesse, and then Aidan and Abigail. The six of them turn, hurrying into the trees to escape the horde.

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**Scene #4**

**FOREST - CAMPSITE - MORNING**

EDWARD REMAR awakes inside of a tent, lying inside of a sleeping bag. He rubs his eyes, confused, not remembering much of anything. Slowly, he sits up, looking at his surroundings.

The tent flap lifts up, a woman stepping into the tent, not noticing that Edward is awake at first.

***Edward:*** *Who are you? Where am I?*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh -- oh my god. Calm down, sir, please - I can explain everything, I promise-- I mean you no harm--*

***Edward:*** *Where’s my friend? What have you people done with him? What have you people done with me--*

Edward looks down at his clothes, realizing that they’ve been cleaned up.

***Bonnie:*** *Okay, to start - my name’s Bonnie Harrell, it is lovely to finally meet you. I’ve been watching over you.*

BONNIE HARRELL smiles, as she offers him a hand.

***Edward:*** *Answer my questions!*

***Bonnie:*** *Oops - okay, you’re a feisty one. Uh… okay… well… your friend is okay as well, I’ll take you to see him if you’d like, he had a nasty head wound, but he’s going to be alright.*

***Edward:*** *How long has it been?*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh - our people found you yesterday in quite the state, said you passed out, and brought you and your friend back here to the campsite.*

***Edward:*** *Campsite…*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh, yes, this is a tent.*

***Edward:*** *I know it’s a tent.*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh, that’s great.*

***Edward:*** *How many of you are there?*

***Bonnie:*** *Ten. Twelve, now that you and your friend are with us. Would you like me to show you around? I should really tell Kurt that you’re awake, but I can take you over to your friend first, if it pleases you.*

***Edward:*** *Where is my cane?*

***Bonnie:*** *Cane?*

***Edward:*** *My-- my cane.*

Edward quiets down, remembering how he’d left it in the barn.

***Bonnie:*** *I’m afraid I have no idea what you’re talking about. I hope I haven’t done anything to upset you.*

***Edward:*** *Just - take me outside.*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh! Okay. Mind if I ask your name?*

***Edward:*** *Edward Remar.*

***Bonnie:*** *Pleasure to meet you, Edward. I hope that we’ll get along well* ***(She smiles)***.

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**Scene #5**

**FOREST - CAMPSITE - MORNING**

BONNIE HARRELL takes EDWARD REMAR outside of the tent and around the campsite, which is situated in a small open field surrounded by some trees. In the camp are a few tents, two cars, and even a couple of horses and carriages filled with supplies.

***Bonnie:*** *Right this way, Edward.*

***Edward:*** *So… what exactly is it you people do?*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh, we just move from place to place together, scavenging different locations before… moving onto the next. We’re getting by, never settling in one place, enjoying the journey.*

Edward limps on behind Bonnie, who takes him through the camp. As they’re walking, Edward looks over at CALVIN SCHULTZ, who’s sitting beside ELLIOTT ROWE, telling the young man a story.

***Bonnie:*** *So, Edward. What’s your story?*

***Edward:*** *I’d rather not. Please, just take me to my friend.*

***Bonnie: (Cheerily)*** *Suit yourself.*

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**Scene #6**

**FOREST - CAMPSITE - MORNING**

BONNIE HARRELL enters another test, this one much larger than the other, enough to stand up straight and walk around in. As soon as she and EDWARD REMAR enter, Edward sees SOLOMON REED lying down in one of the sleeping bags, his head bandaged up.

***Bonnie:*** *Here we are. Howdy, Solomon.*

***Solomon:*** *Hey.*

***Bonnie: (To Edward)*** *Well, there’s your friend for you. I patched him as best as I could.*

***Edward:*** *Yeah. Do you mind giving us a moment?*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh, of course! I’ll go and get Kurt, tell him the exciting news.*

Bonnie happily walks out of the tent smiling. Edward turns to Solomon.

***Edward:*** *Well?*

***Solomon:*** *She’s been very friendly, and so have the other people when I spoke with them earlier before I took a nap. They also mentioned about traveling and exploring, and never staying in one area, which is exactly what I told you about back at the motel. So they have that going for them. Bonnie also said to rest up and take it easy, so I’ll be here for a bit.*

***Edward:*** *Hm. So you quite like it here so far?*

***Solomon:*** *Yeah, it’s pretty good so far. Nothing bad here at all. Hey, wait. Where’s your cane?*

***Edward:*** *After you had your little accident in the barn, I stuck my neck on the line for you and jumped down to help. I cut through all of the dead, and while I was enjoying my triumphant moment, some people encountered me. And that’s the last thing I remember. I’m going to guess they didn’t recover my cane* ***(He sighs)***. *In other words, you’re welcome.*

***Solomon:*** *Thanks, and sorry about your cane.*

The tent flap is pushed open, a cold gust of air entering the room. Edward turns around to see KURT KLEIN, who slowly swaggers up to him, towering over Edward. He eyes Edward up and down.

***Kurt:*** *So… Do you have anything to say to me* ***(He smiles lightly)***.

***Edward:*** *Yes, actually. Who are you?*

***Kurt:*** *Your savior. The words you’re looking for - are ‘thank you’. Without me, you’d be dead… you weren’t looking so good… And you still aren’t.*

Edward grits his teeth, staring up at him.

***Edward:*** *I’d argue I was actually looking pretty good for a man who had just defeated an entire horde. And unfortunately for you, I have no recollection of you saving me… What even was there to save me from? Seems to me like I’d already done all of the work. But Solomon certainly owes his thanks to that simple-minded farmer’s daughter out there.*

Kurt lets out a chuckle, not breaking eye contact with Edward.

***Kurt:*** *Get a load of this hotshot, huh? Tell you what, let’s not get off on the wrong foot. What’s your name, pal?*

***Edward:*** *You’re right, my apologies. That was uncourteous of me. My name is Edward Remar, it is -- most pleasing to meet you.*

***Kurt: (He forces a smile)*** *Nice to meet ya’, Eddie. How about you go grab yourself a bite to eat, huh? Get some more meat on those old bones of yours. You’re gonna need it.*

Kurt turns, heading back towards the tent flap.

***Kurt:*** *We don’t carry dead weight around here… everyone’s got to pull their weight around here. And right now, you don’t even look like you can bench five kilograms.*

***Edward:*** *Oh, I see. You have to earn your keep.* ***Very*** *respectable. I’d be happy to oblige, for all that you’ve done for my friend here.*

***Kurt:*** *That’s great to hear. Really. I’m sure I’ll be proud of you, Edwardo.*

Kurt shoots him a finger gun, before stepping out of the tent, grinning. After a few seconds, Edward turns to Solomon, his face full of rage.

***Edward:*** *WHO does he think we are? I’ve been up and about for five minutes and he’s ALREADY TREATING ME LIKE A GOON!*

***Solomon:*** *Please keep it down - and, yeah, he was, uh, something.*

***Edward:*** *There’s something else going on here… that sarcastic brute thinks he’s playing us for fools. He’s* ***testing*** *us. Well, two can play at that game. I’ll admit, we can’t just up and leave right now, not with the free hospitality that they’re offering, especially for you. You wouldn’t last a day on the road. Give me some time to see what’s at play here, I want to see what these people are* ***really*** *about.*

***Solomon:*** *Okay. Just watch yourself, we haven’t been here long.*

***Edward:*** *Yes, yes, I’ll keep my cards close to my chest. Just - rest up, Solomon. The sooner we can get out of here, the better.*

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**Scene #7**

**FOREST - CAMPSITE - MORNING**

Sometime later, EDWARD REMAR is out sitting on a bench, looking around the camp, thinking to himself -- primarily about his missing cane. As his eyes wander the area, he spots another man standing over a campfire, cooking meat.

***Bonnie:*** ***(Whispering in his ear)*** *That there is Carson Burke.*

Edward jumps, turning around.

***Edward:*** *Jesus Chr-- Were you* ***trying*** *to startle me?*

***Bonnie:*** *Hehe. My badddddddd. I have a tendency of sneakin’ up on people. I don’t mean to.*

***Edward: (He looks back at Carson)*** *What’s so special about him, then? Why do I need to know his name?*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh, I was just pointing him out for you, it’ll be good to get to know everyone, besides, he’s cooking up a storm right now. That man knows how to prepare food, you’re in for a treat* ***(She grins)***.

BONNIE HARRELL, still smiling, looks up at the clouds.

***Edward:*** *I’m sorry - I can’t tell with you. Are you - messing with me?*

***Bonnie:*** *Sorry?*

***Edward:*** *Are you even listening to me? What are you doing?*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh, sorry - the clouds are just so pretty today. That one looks like a moose* ***(She giggles)***.

***Edward:*** *It’s fine, you answered my question, you’re most definitely not being sarcastic.*

Edward turns away, rolling his eyes.

***Bonnie:*** *Hehe - do you see that one?*

Edward buries his face in his hands, groaning.

***Carson:*** *Hey, Bonnie! You mind giving me a hand with serving? I’ve cooked up the goods.*

***Bonnie:*** *Oh, sure thing, Carson!*

Bonnie skips off over to CARSON BURKE. Edward looks around as he goes, frowning slightly. He then spots another three men standing around the hood of one of the cars nearby.

STANLEY PECK crosses his arms, staring down at a map on the hood, dumbfounded. LEONARD THORNE is next to him, narrowing his eyes at the map, while ELLIOTT ROWE is pointing at a spot in the woods on the map.

***Elliott:*** *Right - we are here. Just a couple miles east of us is this lodge* ***(He points at it)***. *Chances are it’s been abandoned for quite some time. If you’re lucky, you should come out of it with some supplies - who knows what. Sounds good?*

***Stanley: (He shrugs)*** *Sure does.*

***Leonard:*** ***(Sternly)*** *Hopefully nothing is poisoned if we get anything. Always be aware of what’s in things…*

***Stanley:*** *Oh, yeah, absolutely.*

***Elliott:*** *Heh-- right, poison…* ***(He chuckles lightly)***

Leonard glances around the camp, meeting Edward’s eyes.

***Leonard:*** *Forgot to mention, Kurt gave me specific instructions to take the outsider--* ***(He coughs)*** *--New guy with us.*

***Stanley:*** *Ohhh that’s right, there’s some new folks.*

***Elliott: (He looks at Edward)*** *Him? Why is Kurt wanting to drag some new guy along with you? It-- it doesn’t seem very safe.*

***Stanley:*** *I bet Kurt wants to see if he’s useful. He don’t look like much.*

***Leonard:*** *I’ll go fetch him. Hopefully he doesn’t turn into a wendigo, you can never be sure of certain outsiders these days.*

***Elliott:*** *Sure… just be careful out there.*

Leonard walks up to Edward, coughing.

***Leonard:*** *Outsider--* ***(He coughs)*** *--Shit, sorry, I meant new guy. You’re coming with us on a trip. Kurt gave specific orders to take you with us.*

***Edward:*** *Of course he did* ***(He smiles slightly)***.

***Leonard:*** *I hope we get along fine. You aren’t bitten or scratched are you? No fluid in any wound either? No ingesti--*

***Edward:*** *No, I’m not bitten or scratched! And no!*

***Leonard:*** *Good. Well come on, and break a leg or both of them. We’re going out soon.*

Leonard walks back towards Elliott and Stanley, mumbling to himself.

***Edward:*** *Nutcase.*

***Stanley:*** *Well, that sure looks like it went well. I’m real excited, now, it’s not often we get to talk to new people. Anyways, thanks a lot, Elliott, we’ll head out after breakfast.*

***Elliott:*** *Stay safe! And good luck!*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #8**

**MOTEL - KATE & MARCUS’ ROOM**

KATE BLOODSTONE sits by the side of the bed, frowning at MARCUS DOWNES, who’s lying on the bed, still unconscious. His wounds had been loosely tended to, but his face is still badly beaten. RANDALL FORSTER stands in the doorway of the room, looking on, arguably in worse shape than Marcus.

***Randall:*** *I’m sorry.*

***Kate:*** *You’re sorry? Randall… if it weren’t for you… he’d be dead. You saved his life… and all the while… you had it just as bad out there. I mean, look at you.*

***Randall:*** *Just a few scratches is all. Don’t you worry about me.*

***Kate:*** *You need to rest. You’ll have lost a lot of blood. Please, I insist. I can’t bear to see you standing like that.*

***Randall:*** *No. I don’t think rest will do me much good right now.*

***Kate:*** *Of course it will… those wounds will catch up to you, you know.*

***Randall:*** *So be it.*

Kate stares at him, noticing something off about his demeanor, the tone in his voice.

***Kate:*** *Randall… are you okay?*

***Randall:*** *I don’t know anymore, to be honest with you. I just know that… I have to do the right thing. Always.* ***(He turns to leave)*** *Again, I’m sorry about Marcus.*

***Kate:*** *You don’t have to be sorry--*

Kate stops, as he watches Randall walk out of the room, closing the door. She frowns, turning back to Marcus, holding his hand.

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #9**

**MOTEL - PARKING LOT - MORNING**

ED ANDERSON walks through the parking lot alongside WILLIAM REYNES, the two of them approaching a storage room around the back of the building.

***Ed:*** *Uh… so… about that report I promised you. It’s not looking very good.*

***William:*** *Tell me more. What’s the issue?*

***Ed:*** *Well… we’re drying up quickly. I took the liberty of beginning to manage our supplies - trying to implement some organization - but, uh… well, the problem is - I’m realizing how little I actually have to organize. We’re burning through our food, our water, and as for the ammo situation… Randall brought a little back from the police station, but not a lot.*

***William:*** *So we’re running low. Alright… I’ll have some teams sent out, see what we can gather. Being that you’ve taken the job on yourself - what do you think we should prioritize at the moment?*

***Ed:*** *Actually… about that.*

Ed steps into the storage room, where he approaches a table with a map of the area laid out.

***Ed:*** *I’d considered pitching a few supply runs at some hotspots I’d found on the map… but I wanted to give it some time, you know, after the incident at the cereal factory, but, uh, we can’t hold off on scavenging forever, right? There’s a place… It’s pretty far from here, would have to make a trip out of it, but I think it could be promising. Small town, very small town, I’d call it a village, even - and I’d be happy to put together a team and check the place out.*

William looks down at the map, and at the village Ed was pointing out. He goes quiet, considering it all.

***William:*** *Then by all means. It sounds like a worthy investment.*

LLOYD WALLER pokes his head into the room.

***Lloyd:*** *I’d love to go on a run. Not that I was listening in or anything. I mean, I just happened to pass by, that’s all, but, uh - yeah, sucks about the food situation.*

***Ed:*** *You were totally listening in.*

William looks back at Lloyd, then glances back at Ed.

***William:*** *I’d be able to trust you with him, wouldn’t I?*

***Ed:*** *Of course, I’d be happy to bring Lloyd. I can check with anyone else around the motel too, see who’s available, and go from there. I’ll put a pin in the village. I’ll keep you updated on whatever I’m doing.*

***Lloyd:*** *Awesome.*

Lloyd turns, starting to walk back off into the parking lot of the motel. William starts to walk after him, taking a last look at Ed.

***William:*** *Thank you for your time, Ed.*

He then hurries out of the storage room to catch up to Lloyd.

***William:*** *Wait up a moment.*

***Lloyd: (He stops and turns around)*** *Yo. What’s up?*

***William:*** *I’m, uh… sorry for not being the most approachable lately. Got a lot going on.*

***Lloyd:*** *No, no - it’s okay, seriously. I get it. You’ve had a lot to deal with these past few days, I didn’t really want to bother you. But I’ve been fine, I promise. Brenden’s cool, and I’ve just been trying to be there for him, you know, after everything that happened.*

***William: (He nods slowly)*** *And listen… Even if I’m pre-occupied, or busy, or whatever else, really - you’re still a good kid, and I care about you. Just want you to know that.*

***Lloyd:*** *Should I be worried that you’re being all sentimental all of a sudden? I’m kinda suspicious. I mean - I appreciate it and all… just… are you good?*

***William:*** *Don’t worry about me. You and Rebecca - your happiness comes first.*

William reaches into his pocket, taking out a candy bar.

***William:*** *Saved this for you. Sorry if it’s a bit warm* ***(He tosses it to him)***.

***Lloyd:*** *Huh, thanks. Still, I know you did that just to change the subject. If you’re feeling weird, because of Jared, I get it… I’ve been feeling weird about it too, but… it had to happen, right?*

***William:*** *Without a doubt. If I could do it all over again - I’d do the same exact thing, just sooner. He was an endangerment to us all… and now he’s gone.* ***(He nods)*** *Whatever keeps the group safe.*

JON MATTHEWS is seen strolling over to the two of them.

***Jon:*** *Would you listen to that? Now that is a beautiful display of commitment. Sorry, kid - you don’t mind if I borrow the big man for a moment, do you?*

***Lloyd:*** *Oh, not at all, we were just finished anyway.*

***Jon:*** *That’s my great timing for you.*

***Lloyd:*** *Are you still gonna show me how to make a molotov cocktail?*

***Jon:*** *Now, now, who said I promised to do that?* ***(He smiles, glancing at William)*** *I’ll consider it, just stay in my good books, young man, and perhaps you will be tossing flaming bottles through the air in no time.*

***Lloyd:*** *That’s awesome.*

***William:*** *Molotov’s, huh… He’ll be a master in no time. Catch you later, kid.*

***Lloyd:*** *See ya’.*

Lloyd walks off.

***Jon:*** *Heh. Good kid. But on a more serious note. Things aren’t looking good. Take a walk with me, William.*

Jon turns, beginning to slowly stroll with him around the parking lot.

***William:*** *Ed’s told me we’re running low on supplies. We’re already in hot water.*

***Jon:*** *That’s exactly what I wanted to talk to you about. You see, while we’ve been sitting cozied up here for the last few days, moping and mourning, we’ve been burning through our resources like there’s no tomorrow. In reality, there is always a tomorrow, it’s just a matter of whether or not we’re going to live to see it. I know that Ed already talked to you about this, but Ed is Ed, he makes things complicated, that’s just what he does. Our concern here isn’t the dead, it’s the living. If a group of assholes strolled up to our gates right now with enough firepower, what would you do?*

***William:*** *Send them away. They’re not us. Last thing we need is more mouths to feed.*

***Jon:*** *That’s all well and good if it’s a group of weaklings, William. But I’m not talking about harmless roaches here, I’m talking about people who have a hell of a lot more ammo than we do.*

***William:*** *On one hand, I could surrender, and hope they spare everyone. But that’s a risk I can’t take. Fighting them wouldn’t be the best course of action either, considering we don’t have much to gamble with, but at least that way there’s a chance we walk away with a victory. What would you do?*

***Jon:*** *I'd make sure I'm prepared, which is why I'm talking to you right now. Let me recruit some of the guys to prepare some defenses around here, so that in the event of a bad situation, we have a fighting chance. I'm talking we go full on lumberjack and cut some trees down, slay mother nature and anything else in our way. Wooden spike traps, tripwires, and most importantly, bows. There's not enough ammo for everyone to carry a gun anymore, we should reserve that for those who are doing something dangerous, and for those who are best with them. Leave all of this to me, William, I want to make some things happen. And hopefully, while I'm doing that, some food miraculously appears out of thin fucking air, I don't know, I'll leave that to Ed.*

***William:*** *You’d do better than anyone, so I’ll trust you with that completely. You’ve got full reign, and permission to use any and all resources to do what you need to do… and in the meantime, Ed’s gonna take a few folks out on a run to a nearby village - get us stabilized in that department. With both those problems being taken care of - we should be in the green zone then, right?*

***Jon:*** *I sure hope so, just thought it would be worth talking about before morale gets too low.*

***William:*** *Alright… so, full steam ahead.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #10**

**FOREST - WOODS - LATE MORNING**

STANLEY PECK walks alongside EDWARD REMAR and LEONARD THORNE, the three of them loosely following a path that’s almost been completely covered up by nature.

***Stanley:*** ***(To Edward)*** *Hope you don’t mind using that for now.*

He points at the baseball bat Edward is carrying.

***Edward:*** *Uh-huh… I really would’ve preferred a blade. Do I look like a guy who packs a punch?*

***Stanley:*** *Huh… Sorry about that… Kurt said you looked like a real fighter, to get you something tough.*

***Edward:*** *Aha. Of course he did. What else has Kurt been saying, hm?*

***Stanley:*** *Oh, not much. He said you seem like a real character, though. Oh, where are my manners? I’m Stanley. Stanley Peck* ***(He offers a handshake)***.

***Edward:*** *Edward Remar* ***(He ignores the offer)***.

***Leonard:*** *I doubt you pack a punch, maybe you do but I dunno. Leonard Thorne, but I don’t do handshakes with new people until I know they are good* ***(He loudly clears his throat)***.

***Stanley:*** *Don’t worry about old Leonard here - he’s just mistrusting of you because he don’t know you yet, takes a lot to get into his good books, trust me.*

***Edward:*** *Oh, forgive me, I should’ve clarified - I don’t care.*

***Leonard: (Sarcastically)*** *Thank you!*

Leonard unsheathes his machete, which is wrapped in electrical cord and small batteries.

***Leonard:*** *Just watching for any crawlers…*

Stanley walks past a large tree, and then notices the lodge coming into view.

***Stanley:*** *Woo-wee! This is one mighty-looking lodge! I bet we can find some real unique goodies in here.*

***Leonard:*** *More than likely. Anyone in a lodge named Jenny is almost a guaranteed cunt and a wendigo. I hope to God there isn’t a wendigo in the ceiling.*

***Stanley:*** *Wow, I didn’t know that.* ***(To Edward)*** *Did you know that?*

Edward sighs, turning and walking off into the woods, off of the path, and away from the lodge.

***Stanley:*** *Hey, where’re you goin’? The lodge is that way!* ***(He points)***

***Leonard:*** *Maybe he’s going to pee. Nature calls, I guess.*

***Stanley:*** *Ah, I’ll go check on the guy, why don’t you go on inside and begin scouting the lodge, Len?*

***Leonard:*** *On it.*

Stanley follows after Edward, while Leonard continues on towards the lodge.

***Stanley:*** *Don’t mind me - you can tell me if you’re about to take a leak - I’ll turn right around!*

Edward turns to face him, a stick now in his hand.

***Stanley:*** *Oh, there you are. Whatcha doin’?*

***Edward:*** *I need a walking stick.*

***Stanley:*** *Ohhhhhh… I see… that’s why you’re walking all funny. Dang, what happened to your leg?*

***Edward:*** *It was crushed by a shelf. It was twisted.*

***Stanley:*** *Huh, well that’s no good. Can you still run?*

***Edward:*** *If I have to* ***(He nods)***. *I can last without one, it’s just easier for support.*

Edward drops his stick, bending down to pick up another one, testing it out.

***Stanley:*** *Naw. That one won’t do you no good.*

***Edward:*** *And how do you know?*

***Stanley:*** *I guess I’m somethin’ of a stick expert. I can already tell that one’s gonna bend. It’s not strong enough. You want to get somethin’ sturdy.*

***Edward:*** *Okay then… stick expert. Can you find me one?*

***Stanley:*** *Oh, sure. Absolutely. Don’t think there’s any decent ones here, but I’m sure I can find you one while we’re in and around the lodge. I’d be happy to, you’re one of us now after all, I think. Right?*

Edward ignores him, walking past Stanley and towards the lodge.

***Stanley:*** *Right.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #11**

**LODGE**

EDWARD REMAR and STANLEY PECK enter the lodge, beginning to walk through the building, wooden floorboards creaking below them.

***Stanley:*** *We should be careful of the dead. Leonard won’t have checked the whole place yet.*

***Edward:*** *I’ll start through here, then.*

Edward walks into a large lounge area with a grand fireplace.

***Stanley:*** *You know, it’s been a while since we’ve actually seen anyone. And we move all over the place. You and your friend are the first in a few weeks, it’ll be nice if you decide to stick around with us.*

***Edward:*** *Do none of you want to settle down? To do anything?*

***Stanley:*** *Right now, we’re just grateful to be survivin’. There’s no shortage of supplies when we’re on the road. It’s a positive to get a change of scenery, explore a little, you know?*

***Edward:*** *Heh. I suppose you’re right. My friend feels the same. Maybe I’ll have a hard time convincing him to leave after all.*

***Stanley:*** *Oh, you not plannin’ on staying?*

***Edward:*** *We have no reason to. We have our own things to do.*

***Stanley:*** *Like what?*

Edward stops for a moment, thinking back to what he’d told Solomon: *Preferably somewhere nicer than here… Preferably a place with subjects to conquer. Whatever problems I have with humanity, there’s no denying that if no one wants to truly thrive in this new world, they’re going to need an army.*

***Edward:*** *Hm. You know, I’m not actually sure after all. How about this… I’ll see how it goes.*

Stanley nods, looking at him, before a zombie steps through a doorway behind him. It takes him off guard, grabbing onto him. Edward rushes at it, taking it down with his baseball bat, and beating its head in.

***Stanley:*** *Well… that was gross. But thanks a lot, partner. You really did me a solid there.*

***Edward:*** *Don’t mention it.*

A battle cry is heard, as LEONARD THORNE comes running out into the lounge, his machete raises, ready to strike--but he jogs to stop after seeing the zombie lying dead on the floor.

***Leonard:*** *Nice one, Stanley.*

***Stanley:*** *Actually, it was our new friend here.*

He nods, lowering his machete.

***Leonard:*** *What have you found so far?*

***Stanley:*** *Oh, nothing, we just got in. Still, this place looks promising, we should be able to fill our bags up and be home within the hour.*

***Leonard:*** *I’ve found some crackers, and I forgot to mention that wendigos usually go in the woods* ***(He eyes Edward)***. *But I’m guessing the out--* ***(He coughs)*** *--The new guy is fine as paper in someone’s hands when it cut--* ***(He coughs loudly)*** *--when it’s being held.*

***Edward:*** *What, do you smoke forty a day?*

***Stanley:*** *He’s actually an explosives expert.*

***Leonard:*** *I’ll go resume my search for stuff. I saw one freak and I used my knife on him. Could be more freaks here. I did find SOME BATTERIES AND SOME CRACKERS LIKE I SAID.*

Leonard turns, starting to walk away, his voice growing distant.

***Leonard:*** *I’ll go check the other rooms, but don’t let them take your flesh. I’ve seen flesh being ri--*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #12**

**FOREST - CAMPSITE - NOON**

***Stanley:*** *Few, it is good to be back.*

STANLEY PECK, EDWARD REMAR and LEONARD THORNE approach one of the carriages in the campsite, lifting their bags up.

***Stanley:*** *Back with some canned food, bottles of water, and treats of all sorts.* ***(To Edward)*** *Now, this is the supply carriage. Nancy is the one who keeps track of all this stuff, all you gotta do is leave your bag right here.*

Stanley sets his bag into the back of the carriage. Leonard and Edward do the same, before NANCY WARNER is seen walking around from the front of the carriage.

***Nancy:*** *Wow. Looks like you guys did okay out there.*

***Leonard:*** *Thank you, Nancy. Surprisingly, the outsider didn’t limp and fall into a Vietnamese spike trap in the ground, NOR did he rip open his own back and eat us alive. I think. Well, I’m gonna carve stick figures and make some explosives for our next adventure. I think orange wire is the good wire…*

Leonard mumbles, turning and walking away. As he goes, Nancy slowly looks at Edward.

***Nancy:*** *Who the hell are you? Oh my god, I’m so sorry. Forgive me - you must be the new guy I’ve been hearing about - duh.*

***Edward:*** *No, it’s okay. I respect the bluntness.*

***Stanley:*** *New guy’s not so bad. Anyways, I really need to go kick my feet up and enjoy some of Carson’s cooking now, if you don’t mind. Thanks again, Nancy, and, uh, Edward, you did good.*

Stanley nods, and walks off. Edward remains by the carriage as Nancy begins to unpack the bag, not noticing Edward remaining there at first.

***Nancy:*** *Oh. You’re still here… Hello. Oh, shit, did I forget to introduce myself? Name’s Nancy Warner. Wait, the guys already told you that, didn’t they?*

***Edward:*** *It’s okay. Edward Remar. So what - you manage the supplies?*

***Nancy:*** *Yep. That’s me. I take them in, account for all of them, keep track of consumption, usage, what we’ve got, what we need. I mean if you ask me, I keep things running. Always prepared.*

***Edward:*** *So you’re the inventory manager.*

***Nancy:*** *I don’t - officially have a title, but yes, I suppose I am. Why?*

***Edward:*** *Oh, you don’t happen to have a double barrel shotgun in there, do you?*

***Nancy:*** *No, I do. That was given to me quite recently, actually.*

Edward stares at her.

***Nancy:*** *Oh. Right, it was yours - duh. Well, if you think I’m just gonna give it to you - not a hope in hell.*

***Edward:*** *Why not? It’s mine. My shotgun, my shells.*

***Nancy:*** *And you could take said shotgun, and immediately blow my head off with it. No thank you.*

***Edward:*** *Why would I do that? If I wanted to kill you, I’d crack your skull with this bat. See? Right here* ***(He holds it up)***.

***Nancy:*** *Oh, please. The bat is more likely to swing you.*

***Edward:*** *Eh…*

***Nancy:*** ***(She chuckles)*** *You’re interesting… I’ll give you that. But seriously, I can’t just go signing out a shotgun to you, you’ll have to ask one of the higher-ups for that. Seriously, only they get to give permission on signing out guns.*

***Edward:*** *The higher-ups? Okay, so where are these divine powers hiding?*

***Nancy:*** *Oh, just in plain sight.*

***Edward:*** ***(He sighs)*** *Point them out to me.*

***Nancy:*** *Okay, well, I’m sure you’ve met Kurt Klein. The man himself, as he’d have you believe. Muscular, confident, thinks he’s hot shit, he’s our ringleader.*

***Edward:*** *Yes, yes, I’ve met him. Quite the douchebag.*

***Nancy:*** *Yeah, one that could kick your ass and knock your teeth out.*

***Edward: (He frowns)*** *Okay… who are the others then?*

Nancy budges past him, and nods towards two others who are standing across camp. MOLLY MASSEY is seen twirling her revolver, while LANDON KIMBER is striking up a cigarette.

***Edward:*** *Those two. I recognize them.*

***Nancy:*** *Molly Massey, the baddest bitch in the apocalypse. You don’t want to piss her off.*

***Edward:*** *Looks like she has five birds nesting in her hair.*

***Nancy: (She laughs)*** *I’d pay to see you say that to her face, little guy.*

***Edward:*** *Who’s the guy, then?*

***Nancy:*** *That there is Landon Kimber. He’s cool. Like, really. He’s pretty chill, pretty relaxed, pretty quiet in general, actually. But he knows he’s cool, like, really cool.*

***Edward:*** *I’m sure his lungs are as black as his heart is.*

***Nancy:*** *Wow, you’re quite judgmental aren’t you? Who’re you to say everyone here is mean?*

***Edward:*** *Trust me, I can tell. I’m a people person.*

***Nancy:*** *Yeah* ***(She laughs)***. *And I’m a samurai warrior, got any other bullshit to get off your chest?*

***Edward: (He sighs)*** *You know what, you seem really busy.*

***Nancy:*** *Oh, yep. Sure am. But listen, feel free to stop by anytime if you’re needing someone to knock you off that high horse of yours.*

***Edward:*** *Thanks, I’ll consider it.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #13**

**FOREST - CAMPSITE - NOON**

KURT KLEIN stands in front of the hood of a car, looking down at a large map. He then glances to his left at ELLIOTT ROWE, and throws an arm around his shoulder.

***Kurt:*** *So… how’s the map lookin’? Our new destination is marked, right? You remember I told you to do that, didn’t you buddy?*

***Elliott:*** *Yeah-- yeah, I did.*

Elliott nervously looks down at the map, pointing.

***Elliott:*** *Right here - this trailer park. It’s just off the highway, not too big, hopefully pretty empty of the dead. It could be a good place to stay for a while - maybe.*

***Kurt:*** *You’re the expert, Elliott. All that glasses-pusher bullshit was never for me, y’know. I trust your judgement.*

***Elliott:*** *Hah…* ***(He chuckles nervously)*** *Thank you, Kurt. Well-- now that you know where we’re headed…*

He begins to fold up the map.

***Kurt:*** *Bingo… I’ve got a little announcement to make.*

Kurt turns, walking back towards the center of camp, clapping his hands loudly.

***Kurt:*** *Alright everybody, listen up!*

People around the camp start to walk over, or listen in if they’re already close by.

***Kurt:*** *Alright. Elliott’s told me he’s got our new location fixed on the map. Firstly, a round of applause for our favourite little… bookworm* ***(He claps slowly)***.

***Bonnie:*** *So adorable* ***(She claps)***.

***Elliott:*** *Uh-- yes, yes. Thank you.*

***Kurt:*** *Yeah… anyway. He’s told us we’re moving to a trailer park. Right off the highway. The boy reckons we can hold up there for a while. So everybody - gather your shit! We move out soon.*

***Edward:*** *Hold on just a minute.*

EDWARD REMAR hobbles forward a few steps, as Kurt looks towards him.

***Edward:*** *I want my shotgun back. And the shells too. It’s mine. If you expect me to be traveling on the road, I want my weapon back. And no, not this* ***(He gestures to his baseball bat, before he drops it)***.

***Molly:*** *Excuse you. A little man like you with a shotgun? Sure you wouldn’t lose your balance upon firing it?*

***Edward:*** *I do fine, thank you very much.*

Kurt starts to approach Edward, still silent.

***Molly:*** *Sounds like the new guy needs some manners.*

***Edward:*** *And you need a hairbrush, shut it.*

***Leonard:*** ***(Mumbling quietly)*** *Damn outsider, nothing but a troublemaker who whines and blames disability for not being able to walk properly.*

She stares at him, offended. Kurt puts a hand on Edward's back when he’s near him, and goes to whisper in his ear.

***Kurt:*** *I don’t know what you think this is, Eddie… but it’s not a fucking charity. Speak to me with more respect, or you’ll find that shotgun of yours in-between your lips. Got it?*

***Edward:*** *Oh, forgive me, I thought it was a charity, considering I was forced to donate my shotgun.*

***Kurt:*** *It’s for the cause, my friend. For the cause. We’ll talk all about it later.*

***Edward:*** *Fine. At least give me something other than a baseball bat.*

***Kurt:*** *Sure thing. What would you like?*

***Edward:*** *A blade. I don’t do so well with blunt objects. I would* ***appreciate*** *it if I were equipped with something more to my comfort.*

***Molly:*** *I don’t think you deserve a damn thing, not until you shot a little respect.*

***Leonard:*** *Best I can suggest is a paddle.*

Kurt reaches into his back pocket, digging around for a minute, before he pulls something out -- a stag knife.

***Kurt:*** *How about this? This suit your needs?*

Kurt flips open the blade, holding it awfully close to Edward’s face. Edward takes a step back, before snatching it from him.

***Edward:*** *It’ll do. Thank you ever so much.*

***Kurt:*** *Any time, Ed. You’re one of the big boys now - sharp weapon and all.*

CALVIN SCHULTZ sits up from over on his chair nearby.

***Calvin:*** ***(To Edward)*** *Don’t feel too upset, young man. Even when we’re traversing the dangerous roads, few are allowed to be equipped with a real weapon. Kurt and his friends enjoy taking credit for protecting all of us* ***(He chuckles)***.

***Kurt:*** *Yeah… it’d suck having to put down an old geezer zombie. It’d hit me right in my heart* ***(He smirks at him)***.

***Calvin:*** *Of course. How terrible it is to imagine. Well, I suppose we should all be packing up right around now, no?*

***Kurt:*** *You sure would. Try not to take all day, Calvin. I know it can be hard having crippling arthritis at your old age.*

***Calvin:*** *I’m three times the age of all of you. While my body may be three times slower, my brain is quite the opposite* ***(He smirks, nodding)***.

***Kurt:*** *Sounds like the ramblings of a dementia-infested old man to me. What about you?* ***(He looks at Landon)***

***Landon:*** *Sounds like zombie-bait’s got a mouth on it to me* ***(He flicks his cigar towards Calvin)***.

Calvin simply nods, as he watches LANDON KIMBER walk off towards his tent.

***Leonard:*** *Dead weight…*

LEONARD THORNE mumbles, turning to go gather his belongings.

***Kurt:*** *Sorry for keeping you, gentlemen. You can run along now.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #14**

**MOTEL - PARKING LOT - EARLY AFTERNOON**

RANDALL FORSTER and AUSTIN KINGSTON are standing out by the front entrance, keeping guard. While they stand there quietly, Randall pulls out the cigarette box he’d taken from Adrian. He stares at it, frowning. Austin glances over.

***Austin:*** *What, uh-- Why do you have that - if you don’t mind me asking. You aren’t a smoker -- right?*

***Randall:*** *No… I’m not. I’ve just had a lot to think about, that’s all.*

***Austin: (He nods slowly)*** *Yeah… You haven’t been the same since you and Marcus came back from the police department. You aren’t yourself -- sorry if I’m being a bit pushy-- Did something happen out there?*

***Randall:*** *Nah, it’s alright, man - you’re not being pushy. I know I’ve been a bit of a downer since everything.*

Randall pauses, as he looks down, starting to grow tired.

***Randall:*** *We met a police officer out there. He was broken. I’d never seen anything like it. This was a man who’d lost all sense of time, his surroundings, his sanity. He thought we were intruders, that’s why Marcus is the way he is right now.*

***Austin:*** *Oh - shit, I, uh, that’s terrible. I’m sorry-- What happened to him - did he die, did you escape him--*

***Randall:*** *I got through to him… in the end. He was just lost is all, mourning the brutal deaths of his mates. He opened up a little though, at the end, but even then he was still dangerous. To me, he looked like a lost soul, past the point of no return, not that I’m qualified to judge that or anything… but I did. So I pulled out my pistol and shot him in the head. Executed him on the spot while he was at his most vulnerable* ***(He frowns, his voice becoming quieter)***. *But it felt right. He was pleading with me, but I think deep down he was pleading for something else. Another kind of mercy, I suppose. And yet, it feels so wrong because it’s almost as if that’s me trying to justify it. It’s scary because, out on the road like this, the way we’re changing - it’s hard to tell if what we’re doing now is right or wrong.*

***Austin: (He frowns)*** *So that’s what happened… You did what you had to do - don’t let yourself get put down by it. He was a threat, someone who couldn’t be trusted. It was a tough decision -- but you made the right call. For all you know he could have killed you and Marcus had you not done it, or worse - followed you back here somehow.*

***Randall:*** *I just feel so… tired all of a sudden. It’s so… strange.*

Randall suddenly falls to the side, his eyes flickering.

***Austin:*** *Wha-- oh, shit!* ***(He kneels down)*** *Hey-- Randall, are you there?*

***Randall:*** *I just want to help people, you know? But maybe he was beyond saving… Maybe I still can…*

***Austin:*** *Yeah-- yeah, buddy - I know you want to help people. Just, uh-- stay here.* ***(He turns to the motel)*** *Hey guys-- Randall needs help!*

Quickly, REBECCA DAWSON comes rushing over to them.

***Rebecca:*** *What happened?*

***Austin:*** *He just collapsed - must be from his injuries.*

***Randall:*** *Don’t worry ‘bout me, Becky. I’m just fine…*

Randall shuts his eyes, passing out.

***Rebecca:*** *Shit. Help me carry him.*

***Austin:*** *Right, right.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #15**

**MOTEL - SPARE ROOM**

KATE BLOODSTONE stands alongside REBECCA DAWSON and AUSTIN KINGSTON, after having just set RANDALL FORSTER down onto a bed, the man still unconscious.

***Kate:*** *I’ve patched him up as best as I could. I knew I should’ve been more insistent about him resting.*

***Rebecca:*** *You did good, Kate. We’re lucky, all things considered, to have been able to tend to his and Marcus’ wounds, considering we don’t have a trained medical professional with us.*

***Kate:*** *We’re dropping like flies. Lolida and Daniel have been cooped up in their room recuperating for days.*

***Austin:*** *He seemed fine right before he collapsed - you’re right, he should have been resting.*

***Kate: (She sighs)*** *Between all of our wounded and our food situation, things aren’t looking good.*

***Rebecca:*** *We’ll make it work.*

***Kate:*** *I know we will. As long as all of us remain optimistic, we can pull through. Staying true to ourselves is how we get through this.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #16**

**KANSAS BACKROADS - EVENING**

Kurt’s group is back on the road, and have been traveling for hours. The two cars are driving slowly at the front of the pack, while the rest of the group are either riding on a horse or sitting in the back of one of the carriages being pulled by the horses. In one of the carriages is EDWARD REMAR and SOLOMON REED, CALVIN SCHULTZ fast asleep beside them. STANLEY PECK is chatting with Solomon from on his horse next to the carriage.

***Solomon:*** *So this is how you all move from place to place?*

***Stanley:*** *Sure is. Hope the ride isn’t too bumpy for ya’. I understand that you’re recovering.*

***Solomon:*** *It’s not bothering, no worries. And yeah, I’m still recovering well.*

***Stanley:*** *I for one love life out on the road. Nothing better. It can be tiring sometimes, but it’s for the best.*

***Solomon:*** *Yeah, I agree, it’s better to not be too attached to things. It helps when you’re on the move, it helps make it easier and hopefully remove all of the doubt you’d have when moving.*

***Stanley:*** *Amen to that, my friend. I think you’re gonna enjoy being with us. Oh! That reminds me! I got you something* ***(He looks at Edward)***.

***Edward:*** *Hm?*

Stanley spins around, grabbing something off the back of the horse.

***Stanley:*** *I told you I’d get you a good walking stick, I sure hope this is good enough.*

He offers it to him, and Edward takes it, smiling.

***Edward:*** *Thank you, Stanley. I appreciate it.*

***Stanley:*** *No worries, friend. I hope you like it. Now, I’m gonna go scout ahead.*

Stanley gallops on ahead, getting up beside the leading car.

***Edward: (To Solomon)*** *You know… Maybe things can work out here for a while.*

***Solomon:*** *Yeah. I told you the people were nice, minus-- well, yeah. But I’m glad to see you’re starting to have some faith.*

***Edward:*** *I suppose they aren’t all bad. We’ll see how it goes.*

***Solomon:*** *Like I said, it’s the way she goes.*

The leading car is brought to a halt, the other car and everyone else stopping. KURT KLEIN steps out of the driver’s seat, closing the door.

***Kurt:*** *Alright! Reign it in. We’re campaigning here for tonight. Elliott here says we’ll be reaching the trailer park by tomorrow.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #17**

**KANSAS BACKROADS - EVENING**

As the sun begins to set, the group starts to unpack, setting up tents in a spot just off the road. EDWARD REMAR is out walking along the road, testing his new stick. As he’s walking, he notices CALVIN SCHULTZ walking along the road ahead of him. Edward narrows his eyes, watching the old man from afar, as ELLIOTT ROWE comes walking up behind Edward.

***Elliott:*** *Hello-- hello there.*

Edward turns, slightly startled.

***Edward:*** *Oh. Yes?*

***Elliott:*** *Hello-- My name is Elliott. You are one of the new guys - I don’t think I know your name.*

***Edward:*** *Edward. You’re the one who charts the course, aren’t you?*

***Elliott:*** *That’s me* ***(He smiles)***. *So - what are you doing out here by yourself-- I thought you might be with your other friend.*

***Edward:*** *Actually, I was trying out my new walking stick. Bad leg. But while you’re here, you wouldn’t happen to be able to tell me what his deal is, would you?*

Edward turns back around, pointing in the distance -- at nothing. Calvin was gone.

***Elliott:*** *Uh-- who?*

***Edward:*** *He-- He was right there!* ***(He sighs)*** *The old guy.*

***Elliott:*** *Oh! You mean Calvin. Calvin is the best guy out here-- well, at least to me. I swear, he’s the brains out here, did you know he was an inventor before this? Well, no - no, you probably wouldn’t. But now you know! Boy, his stories are something. In fact, just earlier he was telling me about his younger days during his prime.*

***Edward:*** *An inventor… Heh… What about you? What did you do?*

***Elliott:*** *Me? I was a security analyst - I know, nowhere near as cool as an inventor, but it sure did pay well, and the people working there were great. What about you, Edward?*

***Edward:*** *I was an inventor.*

***Elliott:*** *Were you? You know - I wasn’t so sure about you when I first saw you, but you seem like a cool guy, Edward. I’m sure we’ll be good friends - unlike some people. You know that Kurt and those-- those lunatic friends of his are beginning to think that we should get rid of Calvin - they’re saying he’s dead weight. I know Calvin’s no young man anymore, but he’s just as important as the rest of us! I can’t believe them.*

***Edward:*** *So that’s what his deal is… Awful. Truly. Elliott. Thank you. You’re one of the only people around here who is actually honest with me* ***(He nods)***. *Kurt and his friends haven’t been the most welcoming, but beyond that, I think you’re a good bunch of people, and I have gotten truly lucky. I think I’ll talk to this Calvin* ***(He turns around)***.

***Elliott:*** *Sounds good, I’ll see you later, Edward.*

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #18**

**KANSAS BACKROADS - MID EVENING**

That night, most of the group are gathered around a campfire in the woods, chatting and laughing, as CARSON BURKE is cooking up a meal. EDWARD REMAR stands off to the side, looking on, while ELLIOTT ROWE and CALVIN SCHULTZ are sitting a little bit away from the others, quietly talking.

***Kurt:*** *Hey! Elliott, buddy, c’mere. Come sit with me a while.*

Elliott turns around from his chair.

***Calvin:*** *Well, you better go and enjoy the big man’s company.*

***Elliott:*** *Uh-- yeah, I guess so. I’ll see you around.*

Elliott slowly stands up, walking over towards KURT KLEIN. Calvin is left sitting alone in the dark. When Edward sees this, he approaches him. LEONARD THORNE, who’s standing beside his tent, watches him with narrowed eyes.

***Leonard:*** ***(Quietly, to himself)*** *God dang outsider, I hope you limp and fall into a South Egypt sandtrap, fucking piece of shit--*

Mumbling, Leonard goes into his tent, as Edward arrives next to Calvin and the log he’s sitting on.

***Edward:*** *Hello.*

***Calvin:*** *I was beginning to wonder if you were avoiding me like the plague* ***(He smiles)***.

***Edward:*** *Actually, you’re one of the few I wanted to speak to. My apologies for leaving it so long. Why do you sit out here on your own in the darkness, away from the fire, away from everyone else?*

***Calvin:*** *It’s funny you say that. You’ve been doing the same thing all night. Only you haven’t been sitting, you’ve been standing, which is worse. Especially with that leg of yours. What did you in?*

***Edward:*** *A shelf. I know, not very exciting.*

***Calvin:*** *Heh. Happens to the best of us. I have my cane to support my back. The joys of getting old* ***(He grins)***. *Here, why don’t you finally sit down?*

***Edward:*** *Happy to.*

Edward takes a seat on the log beside him.

***Edward:*** *Elliott was telling me about you.*

***Calvin:*** *A fine young man. Very intelligent. Very polite. One of the few people I can call a friend these days.*

***Edward:*** *He told me you were an inventor. It interested me.*

***Calvin:*** *That I was, yes. Did it come as a surprise to you? Do I not strike you as the creative type? Heh, fear not, young man, I don’t take offense to things anymore, so speak your mind.*

***Edward:*** *Well to be honest, I was impressed with you from the start. The first time I heard you speak was back at the camp with Kurt and his two lackeys.*

***Calvin:*** *Ah yes… despite our misgivings… I like to shrug it off as playful banter.*

***Edward:*** *But it’s not… is it?*

***Calvin:*** *Oh, well it is on my end. Kurt is a fine, strong young man, who, like it or not, is a big part of how we’re all still alive out here. Yes, it’s obvious they don’t see the benefit in keeping an old fart like me around anymore, but until the day they cast me aside comes, I won’t complain. There’s no use in complaining anymore. I try to enjoy what I can these days, what little there is to enjoy at all. I admit… I’m a burden. My good days are well and truly past. I am reliant on help from those around me, and I’m not afraid to admit that. The good ones like Elliott, they make the effort, but not everyone shares his sentiments. And besides, I’m more than capable of giving them a verbal whooping every now and then. Though, I admit, I feel less safe with each passing day. I can tell they’re waiting for me to drop dead.*

***Edward:*** *That’s not okay though, is it? Elliott says you’re the smartest guy here. Surely that’s beneficial.*

***Calvin:*** *But it’s not raw strength, Edward, and at the end of the day, that’s what matters now… to Kurt at least. May I say something that you may find rather insulting?*

***Edward:*** *Go ahead.*

***Calvin:*** *You don’t strike me as a fighter, Edward. A survivor, yes, but a warrior? No. Not at all. Am I right in saying that?*

***Edward: (He frowns)*** *I may not look intimidating, but I assure you, I’m more than capable of--*

***Calvin:*** *Yes, I’m sure… but you’re not Kurt, are you? And that doesn’t matter. If you’ll accept my advice, I’d like to tell you this. You’re smart, Edward, but stupid smart. I can tell you’re a force to be reckoned with, but you run your mouth too much, and it’s going to blow your bloody cover right off. A guy like you - guys like us… We have to rely on blindsiding people, not confronting them head on. If you want to make it far here, if you want to outsmart Kurt, and show him you’re worth something… then play a smarter game, play* ***his*** *game, just better.*

Edward goes quiet, looking around the woods.

***Edward:*** *I’m an inventor, too.*

***Calvin:*** *I’m glad we have so much in common. Dr. Calvin Schultz. It’s nice to meet you, Edward Remar.*

Calvin extends his hand to him, and Edward shakes it.

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #19**

**KANSAS BACKROADS - MID EVENING**

Sometime later, EDWARD REMAR finds himself leaning up against a tree, looking on at the glow of the campfire in the distance, and at KURT KLEIN sitting beside it.

***Nancy:*** *Wow. Brooding…*

Edward turns his head to see NANCY WARNER walking over to him.

***Edward:*** *I am not.*

***Nancy:*** *Are too.*

***Edward:*** *Am not.*

***Nancy:*** *Fine. Then what* ***are*** *you doing? Do you just like to stand in the darkness stalking everyone?*

***Edward:*** *I’ve just been doing a lot of thinking. What business is it to you? What do you want?*

***Nancy:*** *You aren’t very smooth at talking to people.*

***Edward:*** *Hhh…*

***Nancy:*** *I just came to check if you’d gotten something to eat. I can always bring you a plate.*

***Edward:*** *I’m not hungry.*

***Nancy:*** *Are you sure? I mean--*

***Edward:*** *Really.*

***Nancy:*** *Alright. You do you, man.*

Nancy turns, beginning to walk off.

***Edward: (Quietly)*** *Thank you.*

Nancy smiles, satisfied, before continuing to walk back towards camp. Edward is left standing alone, looking at the camp. He spies Kurt, MOLLY MASSEY and LANDON KIMBER all standing together. He then smiles slightly, wanting to prove them all wrong, as he begins to think that sticking around here isn’t such a bad idea after all.

―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

**Scene #20**

**MOTEL - PARKING LOT - MID EVENING**

Near the entrance of the motel, LLOYD WALLER is looking out onto the road, BRENDEN TREVORS by his side. The two of them are standing on a small platform that’s been built to look over a brick wall in front of the motel.

***Lloyd:*** *Wow, you know we must be heavily undermanned when they’re letting us take watch for a while. I know a lot of our guys have taken pretty bad beatings lately, so I’m not surprised.*

***Brenden:*** *Yeah… I’m just hoping we get ourselves back on our feet. Though - that’s, uh, gonna be a stretch. We’re running low as is. Didn’t you say you were going out on a run soon?*

***Lloyd:*** *Yeah. Should be. I’m kind of looking forward to going out for a while… finally get to do something. But between the cereal factory and the police department, I know things haven’t been going so well lately… But William will get us through this. I believe in him.*

***Brenden:*** *Here’s hoping… One run - just one run - doesn’t go off the tracks this time. Maybe we’ll strike a goldmine and actually get enough food to feed ourselves another week. Probably a… pipe dream, though.*

***Lloyd:*** *I’m hopeful. At least, I’m trying to be more hopeful. For a while I wasn’t, but y’know, I have to be at my best if I’m gonna contribute. We all do. Times are tough out here, I get it, we’re all being put through the ringer, but… believe me when I say we’ve been through a lot worse than this. That doesn’t make it any sadder - Albert was a nice guy, I liked him, it sucks that he’s gone - but I guess all we can really do is pay our respects and remember him.*

***Brenden:*** *I’m glad I got to have one conversation with him… before he passed. He seemed like such a cool guy. I guess he’s another reason for us to keep surviving. Carry his torch.*

***Lloyd:*** *Yeah. Yeah* ***(He smiles)***. *Carry his torch, like a track team. Heh. And even if we’re crawling towards the finish line right now, we’ll make it. I know track teams carry batons, but, uh, you know - I wanted to make the-- Yeah* ***(He nods awkwardly)***.

***Brenden:*** *Like the olympics. They carry a torch there - so you’re half right.*

Lloyd is about to say something, when something from down the road draws his attention. He narrows his eyes, seeing a man stepping out of the woods, carrying an elderly man in his arms. More people step out of the woods, beginning to make their way up to the motel.

***Lloyd:*** *Oh. Uh - Brenden.*

***Brenden:*** *Oh - uhhh… we should… We should get someone.*

***Lloyd:*** *Hey, uh-- Uhhh… yeah - wait here.*

Lloyd turns, running off towards the motel.

***Lloyd:*** *Yeah, uh - we’ve got company! Like - people. New people.*

Lloyd runs up to William’s room, banging on the door.

***Lloyd:*** *Hey, uh--*

REBECCA DAWSON answers, opening the door.

***Rebecca:*** *Lloyd. What is it? What’s wrong?*

***Lloyd:*** *Yeah, uh - we’ve got a bit of a situation. Where’s William?*

***Rebecca:*** *He’s out back with Jon planning defenses - why?*

***Lloyd:*** *We’ve got a bit of a situation. There’s people - a group outside.*

Rebecca quickly steps out of the room, beginning to walk towards the entrance.

***Rebecca:*** *Go and get William and Jon. I’ll handle this for now.*

Lloyd nods, turning to run off around the back of the motel.

***Rebecca:*** *Brenden! What’s it looking like? How far are they?*

***Brenden:*** *They’re down near the treeline, on their way up this way!*

KATE BLOODSTONE and DEAN HOWARDS come walking up to Rebecca, curious looks on their faces.

***Kate:*** *What’s going on?*

***Rebecca:*** *There’s people or something. A group - outside. We’re gonna need you.*

***Dean:*** *People outside? Not again… Not again, please, not again.*

***Kate:*** *Don’t worry, Dean. Maybe… Maybe they won’t be so bad.*

Kate begins to climb up a small ladder up onto the platform beside Brenden. She looks down, seeing six people. AIDAN ELDRIDGE is carrying WESLEY RANDOLPH in his arms, completely exhausted; JEANNE RANDOLPH stands beside them; LUKE BUTLER is gripping his cricket bat, looking up at Kate and Brenden; ABIGAIL BROOKS is limping, her ankle sprained, while her arm that's been sliced open is covered in blood soaked cloth; and JESSE GARNETT is standing beside her.

***Aidan:*** *Please-- we need some help.*

Dean begins to climb up the ladder to get a look over the wall.

***Dean:*** *What’s it look like--*

***Rebecca:*** *Brenden. Go and get Aldus and Austin and anyone else you can find - make sure they are armed in case this goes south. Go.*

Brenden nods hurriedly, before turning to run off.

***Kate:*** *Six of you?*

***Aidan:*** *It’s just us -- we’re friendly -- we need some help, we have wounded.*

Kate looks at Rebecca and Dean.

***Dean:*** *I don’t think they’re gonna try anything, look at them. We-- We-- I don’t know if we have the resources to help them, but we’ve got to - at least give them shelter or-- anything.*

***Kate:*** *They have elderly, a kid, wounded people. We have to.*

***Rebecca:*** *I… guys… We don’t have anything to provide these people.*

***Kate:*** *We can bring them in, at least. Figure it out from there. We always do.*

***Dean:*** *What if it was us? Look at them, that’s us. That was us. We can’t turn them away. It’s not right.*

Rebecca nods slowly.

***Rebecca:*** *You’re right, I know, I know. We just have to be cautious about this.*

Kate looks back down at Aidan’s group.

***Kate:*** *What do you have on you?*

***Aidan:*** *We-- we had to leave everything behind - our group was attacked, a house near here. We… We don’t have anything - just a few basic knives, and his cricket bat* ***(He looks at Luke)***.

Brenden is seen returning to the entrance, now with ED ANDERSON, AUSTIN KINGSTON and ALDUS PAXTON.

***Ed:*** *What’s going on? People? Like - real people?*

***Austin:*** *Here we go…*

The four of them stay below, looking through the entrance at Aidan and his group.

***Dean:*** *Kate, ask them what attacked them. I don’t want us to deal with another problem-- like that.*

***Kate: (She nods slowly, looking back at Aidan)*** *What happened to you out there? How did you end up like this?*

***Aidan:*** *A group of the dead ones-- We just lost two of our own not long ago. The rest of us barely got out alive.*

Kate looks down at them sympathetically, before nodding. She looks back at her own group.

***Kate:*** *Guys. We have to take the chance. One of them looks like they’ve been hurt badly, they’re vulnerable out there.*

***Dean:*** *Some of them are bloody… Screw it, just let them in. We can find out if they’re bit later.*

***Rebecca:*** *Alright, hold on. Austin, Aldus.*

***Austin:*** *Huh?*

***Aldus:*** *Hm?*

***Rebecca:*** *First sign of something going bad, I need you guys on standby.*

***Austin:*** *I’ll be ready.*

***Aldus:*** *I’ll also be ready.*

Rebecca glances over at Brenden, who’s standing closest to the motel gate.

***Rebecca:*** *Open the gate.*

Brenden unlocks it, pulling it open.

***Aidan:*** *Thank you-- thank you.*

Aidan and his group begin to walk through the gate into the motel, just as DANIEL ROCKWELL comes stumbling over to them.

***Daniel:*** *What the hell are you people doing?*

***Dean:*** *New people, they’re hurt! We can’t let them die out there.*

***Kate:*** *Daniel - stop. We’ve got this under control.*

***Wesley: (He coughs up blood)*** *Please don’t. I’m already dying.*

***Daniel:*** *What are you, fucking nuts? Do you know how many of us are wounded right now? We don’t even have enough food to feed ourselves - what the fuck are we gonna do for these people? Huh? Bring them in? I’d rather they didn’t kill Lolida in his sleep, I’d rather not take that chance.*

***Kate:*** *Daniel - that’s enough. These people are hurt. Look at them. We can figure things out. We will figure things out.*

***Dean:*** *Dammit…*

Dean approaches Aidan, taking Wesley from him. He goes to set him down in a chair.

***Dean:*** *Our people are gonna help you, we, uh, I don’t think we have much but we’re gonna try. Just sit tight, I got water, I’ll bring it out.*

Dean races off to his room.

***Aidan: (To Daniel)*** *Mister - look at us, what are we going to do? We just need our people to get patched up. Please.*

***Daniel:*** ***(He scoffs)*** *It’s nothing personal. But it’s also not up to me.*

***Aidan:*** *Alright…*

***Jeanne:*** *You mentioned wounded? I used to be a nurse. I think I can help if you let us stay and get patched up. Please.*

***Kate:*** *You were a nurse? That’s great.*

CLYDE ROLLINS and CLAIRE NOBLE are seen walking over as well, a large crowd now gathering around the entrance of the motel.

***Clyde:*** *New people? Well, pleasure to meet all of you. As you may know, I am Clyde Rollins.*

Dean jogs back up to Wesley with a bottle of water.

***Aidan:*** *Clyde Rollins -- the movie star- heh.*

***Dean: (To Wesley)*** *Hey, you still there? Can you tell me your name, anything?*

***Wesley:*** *Slyde Lawlins?*

***Dean:*** *Your name is Slyde? No offense. Just take a drink, man.*

***Wesley:*** *Oh, sorry. I didn’t see. Thanks.*

***Clyde:*** *Wh… I… Clyde Rollins. Everyone knows that name. Seriously - I was a big deal.*

***Claire:*** *Oh, give it a rest. Sorry, you’ve hurt his fragile ego.*

***Clyde:*** *That is not true.*

***Aidan:*** *Do you have stitches here - some bandages, something to clean up her wound?* ***(He points at Abigail)***

***Claire:*** *I’ll get something for you right now, see what we have.*

Claire turns, rushing off.

***Kate:*** *So… Can we take all of your names? I’m Kate.*

***Aidan:*** *Aidan-- Aidan Eldridge. This here is Abigail, and this is…*

***Jesse:*** ***(Quietly)*** *My name is Jesse.*

***Jeanne:*** *I’m Jeanne. That’s my husband Wesley.*

***Luke:*** *Luke.*

***Wesley: (To Dean)*** *Thank you, young man. You know, back in my day we didn’t have to worry about the dead.*

***Dean:*** *No problem, Slyde. I can imagine back then was a lot better for you. And hey - keep drinking, if you feel funny say something.*

***Wesley:*** *What? No, I heard that man over there say Slyde* ***(He looks at Clyde)***. *I’m Wesley. What kind of name is Slyde?*

***Dean:*** *Slyde? No- no, Clyde. Clyde Rollins. You don’t know him? I… guess it’s odd to think about now, isn’t it. He was a movie star.*

***Wesley:*** *I do. I know of him. His movies suck.*

Jon and William come walking up to the entrance from the outside, having been taken around the back by Lloyd.

***Jon:*** *Whoa. Busy day.*

***Aidan:*** *Hello.*

Kate looks over at JON MATTHEWS and WILLIAM REYNES -- taking note of William’s glaring look, and his silence.

***Kate:*** *Guys, there was a group of people at the gate. They need our help. Some of them are wounded. They have elderly with them, and a child. This is the least we can do, right?*

***Jeanne:*** *Please. God had this planned for us to meet. I can help you with your wounded.*

William ignores Kate, walking past her and up to Aidan’s group.

***Kate:*** *William?*

***William:*** *Who’s in charge?*

***Aidan:*** *I-- That would be me. What can I do for you?*

Claire comes jogging back out with some bandages.

***Claire:*** *Hey I got the--*

***William:*** ***(To Aidan)*** *You can gather your group and go.*

Claire stops, falling silent.

***Aidan:*** *…What?*

***Dean: (To William)*** *Hey- hey, what if it was us?*

***Kate:*** *William, what are you doing?*

***Dean:*** *You can’t just do that, just wait. We can try and give them what we have, make them pack up after. Just - wait, please.*

***William:*** ***(To Aidan)*** *Don’t make me repeat myself. That’s the gate. Out.*

Daniel stands off to the side, amused.

***Daniel:*** *I told you all it was stupid to let them in.*

***Dean:*** *William, this isn’t right. It’s not right.*

***Kate:*** *Right, hold on a minute.* ***(To Aidan)*** *Don’t go anywhere.*

***Aidan:*** *Mister-- You can’t send us back out there.*

William reaches into his coat pocket without hesitation, drawing a pistol.

***William:*** *I can. And I’m going to.*

***Aidan:*** *Take it easy…*

Aidan takes a step back.

***Rebecca:*** *William…*

***William:*** *You have until I load this magazine to get back outside those gates.*

***Jon:*** *You heard the man. Time for y’all to pack it up and get moving.*

***Dean:*** *…What--?*

***Aidan:*** *Sir - we’ll die out there. Don’t do this. Let us stay - I’ll do whatever it takes.*

***Jon:*** *As it happens, we’re in no position to help you. It’s tough, and I am sorry, but you’ll just have to make it on your own out there - like we did.*

***Kate:*** *Jon. You--*

***Jon:*** *I’m sorry, Kate. It’s sweet that you’re thinking with your heart, but we’re thinking with our heads here.*

***Dean:*** *We barely got here, look at them. God, they’re starving - some of them are barely able to walk. I--I -- how could any of you even do this? What the hell is wrong with you?*

***Wesley:*** *My legs don’t work, you asshole. I need picked up. Aidan, can you or Luke carry me? Unless there’s a wheelchair.*

***William:*** *There’s not enough room for them. Not enough food. Not enough medicine. Two of our own are wounded - and the last* thing we need is more mouths to feed. This group comes first.

William reaches into another pocket, taking out a magazine. Aidan stares at him, his mouth agape, not knowing how to respond. Jesse goes to get behind him, scared.

***Aidan:*** *I’ll go out and scavenge, I’ll do whatever -- please. Please don’t send us out there. Look at him* ***(He points at Wesley)***. *Look at her* ***(He points at Abigail)***.

***Jeanne:*** *Please. We’re from around here too. What if we helped scavenge for both of our groups?*

***Luke:*** *This isn’t worth it… come on.*

***Aidan:*** *No-- no, Luke. We can’t go out there.*

***Kate:*** *No - don’t go anywhere. You’re staying right here. With us. William, they’re willing to help us. We’re not turning them away.*

***William:*** *Shut up. You don’t know what you’re talking about.*

***Dean:*** *Can we vote? Can we-- Can we at least just talk about this?*

***Kate:*** *These people are begging, William, dammit. Listen to yourself. What you’re suggesting is insane… Think about Albert.*

***William:*** *I’m listening to myself. And I’m listening to you too - and out of the both of us, the only one not in touch with reality is you. You’d have us starve to help a bunch of people destined for death’s door.*

***Wesley: (Quietly)*** *I’m a Saint. I’m not going to meet Death down-- down there.*

***Kate:*** *We’ll figure something out! Now put the gun away. I won’t let you do this, William. This isn’t you. This isn’t right.*

***William:*** *There’s nothing to figure out. If you wanna go help them so bad, you can step outside those gates too. Same goes for you* ***(He looks at Dean)***.

***Dean:*** *What the fuck is wrong with you?*

***Aidan:*** *There’s no need to be waving a gun around, sir. We aren’t going to attack you.*

***Jon: (To Kate and Dean)*** *If you morons keep on crying like this, maybe you’ll generate a river for us to drink from. Then we’d all be happy. But until you do that, we’re in no position to take people in. How hard can that be to understand?*

***William:*** *You’re both being fucking stupid. Shut up for once - and think about your own safety fist, for once. They’re not us. They can face the big bad world on their own. Suck it up.*

***Lloyd:*** *Uh. Maybe… Maybe we should help these people… it doesn’t… seem very right to send them away.*

***Aidan:*** *You’re killing us by putting us back out there. We won’t survive another day.*

***Jeanne:*** *Please just let some of us scavenge for both of our groups. Then when we’re good to go, we can leave. We aren’t gonna survive if you throw us back out. Please.*

***William: (To Lloyd)*** *This isn’t up for debate. We don’t have enough room -- and it’s pissing me off that any of you would even suggest that. You know how bad our resources are getting.*

Dean shakes his head, looking away.

***Dean:*** *…I can’t be a part of this. I can’t watch this.*

Dean walks away back to his room.

***Kate:*** *Enough of this. Aidan - take your people inside, you’re staying.*

***Jon:*** *Oh you most certainly are fucking not staying.*

Jon draws his own gun, staring down Aidan’s group. Aidan raises his hands in fear.

***Aidan:*** *There’s no need for guns -- just calm down.*

***William:*** *It’s survival of the fittest -- and by the looks of them… they’ll do nothing but leech off what we have. It’s how it’s gotta be.*

Kate looks at both William and Jon in disgust.

***Kate:*** *What the fuck are you doing? These people aren’t harming ANY of us!*

***Jon:*** *William’s kept us alive all this time. Why should we stop listening to him now?*

***William:*** *Jon, count to ten. If they’re not gone by then, feel free to pull that trigger.*

***Jon:*** *One.*

***Kate:*** *Stop this.*

***Jon:*** *Two.*

Aidan starts to step back, ushering the others to get behind him.

***Aidan:*** *Please don’t do this.*

***Kate:*** *STOP THIS!*

Kate approaches Jon, forcing his gun down. As she does, William slides the magazine into his own gun, and points it at Kate.

***William:*** *Get off your high horse. Now’s not the time.*

***Kate:*** *You’re aiming a gun at me.*

Jon pushes Kate aside, aiming his gun up again.

***Jon:*** *Three.*

***Wesley:*** *Someone pick me up!*

Aidan moves to the side, grabbing Wesley.

***Rebecca:*** *William. That is enough!*

She walks up to him, grabbing the gun from him.

***Rebecca:*** *What the hell are you doing?*

***William:*** *Hero complexes can wait. If you both wanna get in the way - you can both go help them. But your safety stops becoming my concern in exchange. I’m giving you both an order. You follow it for your own safety -- not for mine. We don’t owe these people anything - yet you both wanna risk the lives of everyone in here for them. Bullshit.*

***Jon:*** *Five. You really gonna make me use force?*

***Kate:*** *We don’t owe these people anything, but it’s THE RIGHT THING TO DO! LISTEN TO YOURSELF!*

Aidan continues to back up with his group, shaking his head in disbelief.

***Clyde:*** *We can’t. We can’t send them away.*

***Jon:*** *Six…*

***William:*** *The right thing to do? The right thing to do DOESN’T FUCKING EXIST. If the right thing to do dictated how we live life, THE DEAD WOULDN’T RIP THE LIVING LIMB FROM LIMB.*

Clyde approaches William.

***Clyde:*** *William, I think - you should listen for just a moment- uhm -- you’re making a mistake. I ask that you reconsider, and that we try to help these people--*

***Jon:*** *Seven.*

***Aidan:*** *Listen to your people, William. We will do whatever it takes - we’ll go out and scavenge our own food - just let us stay, please.*

***William: (He shakes his head)*** *You’re lucky I showed you enough compassion to let you have ten seconds. Make good use of it.* ***(He turns to Daniel)*** *Do me a favour and get these idiots under control. We’ll be having words after these people are gone.*

***Jon:*** *Eight.* ***(To Aidan)*** *Come on, man. Read the room.*

***Clyde:*** *No. Stop this.*

Clyde goes to stand in front of Jon, blocking the way.

***Clyde:*** *Stop this, please. Come on. I understand, I do. Things are--*

***Jon:*** *Get out of my fucking way, Clyde. I’m only gonna ask this once.*

***Clyde:*** *I can’t do that. I’m sorry. You’re aiming a gun at innocent people who need our help. This isn’t right… I…*

***Jon:*** *Oh who the fuck are you to judge if they’re innocent? We don’t know shit about them. Now move out of the fucking way. Fucking hell.*

Jon barges past Clyde, knocking him to the ground.

***Claire:*** *Enough!*

Claire runs at Jon, tackling him down. Jon almost immediately throws her off of him. Claire hits a pole nearby, giving her a small cut on her head. Jon grunts, standing back up.

***Jon:*** *You ruined my count. But they’ve had more than enough time.*

***Clyde:*** ***(To Jon)*** *What did you do?*

***Jon:*** *What did I do? The bitch tackled me, what the fuck did you think I was gonna do?*

***Claire:*** *I’m alright, Clyde.*

***William:*** *You’ve had enough time.*

William aims towards Aidan’s group again, firing a bullet at the gate. It rings off the metal.

***Aidan:*** *Fucking hell! Alright!*

***Kate:*** *ENOUGH!*

Kate throws a punch at William, which causes him to stumble back a bit.

***Daniel:*** *That’s enough from you, little lady.*

Daniel grabs Kate, restraining her.

***Daniel:*** *You’re acting up like a child.*

***Kate:*** *Let me go. Now.*

***Daniel:*** *You’re on timeout.*

Aidan’s group backs out onto the road quickly after the shot is fired.

***William:*** *Go. Brenden, get the gates.*

Brenden stands still for a moment, before he reluctantly goes over to the gate, pushing it closed. He locks it up.

***Kate:*** *Don’t do this - those people will go straight into the city - it’s infested there. We can’t just-- We can’t.*

Luke tugs at Aidan’s sleeve.

***Luke:*** *These people are fucking insane. Let’s just go, man. Really.*

Aidan nods slowly, still looking through the gate of the motel.

***Wesley:*** *You pieces of shit. I oughta walk through this blasted gate!* ***(He coughs)***

William glares at Kate, as he puts away his pistol.

***William:*** *Sooner or later, you’ll realize it’s for the greater good. I don’t think you’d appreciate starving to death.*

***Kate:*** *You’re lost.*

***Daniel:*** *You gonna calm down now?*

***William:*** *At the end of the day - you’ll still be alive. Marcus will still be alive. The rest of you -- will still be alive. So what the fuck do you have to complain about? That I kept you all alive? Give me a break.*

***Aldus:*** *William is right. We don’t have enough supplies, but we shouldn’t have threatened to shoot them…*

***Kate:*** *We can make things work. Abandoning people like this isn’t right. That’s the bottom line. We’re going to be struggling either way, but I can’t bring myself to leave potentially good people out on the road to die. That’s not what we’re about, that’s not what Albert was about. Brenden -- Brenden is an example of that. And… Austin… there’s a child with them. You had a family, you-- Are we going to send a child out there to die?*

***William:*** *Brenden was one, healthy kid. He can contribute. These people can’t. I’m not shoveling my resources into a one way hole. Take it or leave it. Doesn’t matter to me either way.*

***Austin:*** ***(He frowns)*** *I… We don’t have the supplies.*

***William:*** *I don’t know how many more people will have to die before you’ll realize I’m right.*

William shakes his head, as he walks away. Kate is left standing there in silence, as Daniel finally lets go of her, shaking his head.

***Clyde:*** *This group has always done the right thing against all odds… Always! The very thing that helped me step up and become a better man was saving a sickly little girl… because it was the right thing to do. I understand… we’re low on supplies… I do… But to aim a pistol in Kate’s face? Does that sound like the right thing to do? Does it?*

***Claire:*** *Clyde… it’s… it’s over.*

Kate looks back out onto the road to find that Aidan’s group is already gone. She frowns.

***Jon:*** *It’s settled. You all ought to think about this little tantrum. He’s doing his best to keep you all alive.*

Jon strolls on up to Clyde, glaring at him.

***Jon:*** *You’re lucky I didn’t knock your teeth out for that.*

Jon turns, walking off. As he does, Kate looks around, still frowning, eventually looking back at Daniel.

***Daniel:*** *What are you looking at? You’re the stupidest of all. You wanna save people, like it’s that easy? It makes me happy seeing you pout like that, like a spoiled brat who didn’t get her own way.*

Clyde walks up to Daniel without a word and punches him square in the face.

***Daniel:*** *You fuck--*

He punches him again, knocking him to the ground with a thud. Because of his injuries, he is knocked out as he hits the ground.

***Clyde:*** *I don’t care what happened… He doesn’t get to speak like that… I’m going to make things right.*

Clyde approaches the gate.

***Claire:*** *What are you doing?*

***Clyde:*** *We can’t just let them go, can we? I’ll… go out there… I’ll keep an eye on those people… If they head for the city, so be it, I’ll head for the city too. I’ll find us supplies - I’ll make this right.*

***Claire:*** *Clyde* ***(She shakes her head)***. *This isn’t one of your movies, things - won’t be that simple.*

***Clyde:*** *I know, I know - but I promise, I just want to keep an eye on them. I won’t do anything stupid.*

Clyde walks up to Kate.

***Clyde:*** *Kate. A lot of the group has turned their back on us, I know, but that wasn’t everyone. Think about Marcus, think about Randall. We can still make this right.*

***Kate:*** *Maybe…*

***Lloyd:*** *Uh… for what it’s worth… I… really am sympathetic to everything… but I don’t think punching William was the best idea. Still, I, uh, I hope you guys do make it right, just… don’t do anything too rash.*

***Rebecca:*** *What he said.*

Rebecca and Lloyd turn to walk off, as the remainder of the group still near the entrance are left in silence.