Ext. Parking Structure - Afternoon
Johan rushes toward Kane, holding his machete with determination.
Kane readies his knife, poised for a counterattack. However, Johan, at a mere foot's distance, deftly steps back, leaving Kane momentarily confused.
Seizing the opportunity, Johan executes a swift front kick, dislodging the knife from Kane's grip and sending it flying.
Yet, as Johan prepares for his next move, a searing pain shoots through his left arm——the injury Kane inflicted had resurfaced.
Kane smirks, gesturing to his own left arm.
Kane
Heh, look at both of us.
(Points to his own left arm)
Fucking hell...
From his pocket, Kane takes out a small knife—Johan recognizes it as his own red-handled knife, previously taken by Cheyenne.
Kane
I'll admit it... You're pretty smart. I can tell that you're not an experienced fighter. But you can navigate your surrounding real quick and you're careful with every move you throw.
Johan just stares at Kane with silence. All he could think about was about how he would attack Kane next.
Kane
You not listening..? What a bitch...
Advancing slowly, Kane and Johan engage in a silent duel, each calculating their next move.
And in a matter of seconds, Johan thrusts with the machete,
But, Kane adeptly encloses his arm with his elbow, forcing Johan to release his weapon. Then swiftly, Kane stabs Johan in the back of the shoulder with the retrieved knife.
Enduring the pain, Johan retaliates by grabbing Kane's face, attempting to crush it. However, Kane, unyielding, hoists Johan into the air and hurls him forcefully to the ground.
Johan's tormented yell echoes, but he defiantly rises, determined to continue the fight.
Kane charges forward, intending to deliver a decisive blow, but Johan, with surprising agility, throws himself backward, narrowly evading the attack.
Impressed by Johan's resilience, Kane breaks into laughter.
Kane
God DAMN!
Taking a moment to catch his breath, Kane kneels down, showing signs of fatigue.
Johan laid on the dirty concrete ground, his body weakened and his breath labored. Pain was surging throughout his whole body, especially his torso.
Trying to ignore all of it, he pulls out the knife from his shoulder and examines it.
It really was his knife that was taken by Cheyenne, then Kane, and now returned to him. It reminded him of how so much has transpired in just a few days.
Johan slowly stood back up and gazed down at his heavily bleeding wound, but his sweaty front hair obstructed his vision.
So as he slowly stood back up, he teared off the bandages from his head, covering his hand with blood.
And using that blood-stained hand, he slicks back his hair.
Kane
Ready for more, bitch? Let's hurry and finish-
Kane stops talking as he sensed something different about Johan.
Johan was staring at Kane in silence, and whether it was his appearance or expression, something about him unsettled Kane.
No, it wasn't just unsettled... He was scared.
Kane's body trembles, as if his instincts were urging him to flee. He had never felt this way, not even when facing a Gier for the first time.
Kane (V.O)
What the fuck. What the fuck. What the fuck?
He slaps himself on the cheeks, attempting to regain focus.
Finally locking onto Johan's eyes, Kane noticed an unusual amber-mahogany glint.
Blinking in disbelief, Kane assumed he was imagining things, but the peculiar gleam persisted...
In sheer frustration, Kane erupts in a thunderous shout.
Kane
COME AT ME, YOU PIECE OF SHIT!!!
In an instant, Johan materialized right in front of Kane, a sight that completely stuns the seasoned fighter.
The speed of Johan's movement defied all logic, surpassing the capabilities of any living being.
It was... It was as if he had teleported.
Kane
(Under his breath)
What the-
Johan
I'm NOT GOING TO DIE!
Jonah clings onto Kane and in a desperate move, bites into the side of Kane's neck.
Kane's pain-stricken scream filled the air as he tries to push Johan away.
Kane
YOU! YOU F-FUCKING MOTHERFUCKER!
Johan remained unyielding, as he brought Kane down to the ground and teared a sizable chunk of flesh from the bone.
Kane's screams resonated throughout the entire building, reaching ears even outside.
Blood started spilling profusely, so Kane attempts to use his still uninjured arm to staunch the flow, but Johan stabs the palm of that hand, preventing any resistance.
Kane convulses, shaking his entire body, struggling to break free.
Johan spits out the torn flesh, blood dripping from his mouth—the blood of Kane.
His gaze on Kane was cold and detached.
At this moment, Johan transcended any semblance of humanity. He was no longer a man but rather an animal, attacking another creature that threatened its existence.
Kane's screams of agony continued to echo and his movements grew increasingly frantic. Yet, Johan remained unmoved, steadfast, as Kane's struggles gradually subsided.
Finally, Johan rises because Kane was now devoid of the strength to even twitch.
Johan, slowly regaining his senses, wiped the blood from his mouth and looked down at his mutilated enemy. There was no trace of guilt in Johan's expression.
Kane's voice emerged, feeble and squeaky.
Kane
There's no point...
It was enough for Johan to hear.
Kane
Don't you get it..? We're fucked... There's no point in living... We're all just puppets now. Puppets to entertain that motherfucker...
Johan understood whom Kane was referring to.
Kane
Nothing we can-
Johan steps on Kane's mouth, silencing him.
Johan
I don't care...
He glances down and notices the bell keychain still dangling from his pants.
Johan
I'm gonna live.
Kane's eyes were closed and there was no sound coming out from him anymore.
And that was the last thing Johan saw before he passed out, dropping to the ground.
Ext. Downtown La Outlet - Night
The moon casts a vibrant glow, illuminating even the faintest movements on the ground.
Outside a clothing store, Holden stands, lost in thought and clutching a pack of cigarettes. Ward's final words echoed relentlessly in his mind.
He then extracts a cigarette, hesitating for a fleeting moment before finally igniting it, succumbing to the need for distraction from his troubled thoughts.
The abrupt rush of smoke into his lungs triggers a coughing fit.
Cheyenne approaches, a sizable duffel bag slung over her shoulder.
Cheyenne
How is it?
Holden glances up, smoke still lingering around him.
Holden
Well, not sure...
He takes another drag, his body shivering involuntarily as the embers dance in the air.
Cheyenne
Has he woken up yet?
Cheyenne moves closer to the store entrance, peering inside.
Holden
Not yet... Rhia has healed all his wounds, but his fever persists...
Cheyenne
He just wants to sleep in, don't worry.
Pushing open the door, Cheyenne steps inside.
Cheyenne
Brought food. Eat up.
Int. Outlet Clothes Store - Continuous
Inside the store, Rhia stirs from a nap, leaning against the wall. Scotty sits beside a makeshift bed, cobbled together from a table, a pile of clothes serving as a mattress, and a pillow fashioned from more clothing.
Johan lies on this improvised bed, a cold wet towel resting on his forehead.
Rhia
(Rubbing her eyes)
Hey Cheyenne.
Cheyenne
How you feeling, Rhia?
Rhia
Just tired, but aside from that, no problem.
Scotty
You almost passed out twice while healing Johan, you sure?
Rhia
It's just painful during the healing process, but there aren't any lasting effects.
Scotty
Still, Rhia, thank you so much... You saved both our lives.
Rhia
(Smiling)
No need for any thanks. It's the least I can do.
Cheyenne
Alright now, eat up. I raided all of the restaurants in this outlet.
Cheyenne drops the duffel bag and unzips it.
Scotty
I'll eat a little later, don't worry about me.
Rhia looks at Scotty with concern, noticing it's not the first time he's brushed off eating.
The door swings open and Holden comes in as well.
Holden
I got an idea! How about we play some music? I read an article about patients waking up from comas after hearing their favorite songs.
Rhia
Uh, that might work... But, how can we play it?
Rhia's remark prompts Holden to realize the challenge of playing music in their current situation, where even such a simple task requires more thinking due to the absence of phones.
Holden
We can sing-
Before he can finish his thought, Cheyenne interrupts by tossing a banana at Holden's face.
Scotty
OH!
Scotty's sudden exclamation draws everyone's attention.
If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
They turn to see Johan's hand raised slightly, his eyes barely open.
Holden
Johan!
Holden and Rhia rush to Johan's side.
Johan
(Raspy voice)
Wa...
Scotty leans in, trying to hear Johan's faint words.
Johan
Water...
Scotty
Water! Someone give me a bottle!
Cheyenne tosses a water bottle to Scotty, who catches it deftly.
Holden then helps Johan to sit up and Scotty feeds him the water. Soon, with a loud exhale, Johan finishes the bottle, visibly revived.
Holden and Rhia share relieved smiles, while Scotty swiftly wipes away his tears, concealing his emotions.
Scotty
(Smiling)
You've been out for a while, man.
Johan
(Still raspy)
How long..?
Holden pats Johan on the back.
Holden
Two whole days, bud. We were really worried...
Johan
Well, that's a record- Wait...
Johan immediately checks his torso, finding a scar that has miraculously healed.
Scotty
Unbelievable, right?
Johan looks around, confused.
Scotty
It's all thanks to Rhia, Johan.
Johan looks at Rhia, who appears slightly embarrassed.
Int. Outlet Clothes Store - Moments Later
Johan leans against the wall and takes a bite of an apple, all the while lost in thought.
Johan
So that's what Shin meant by endowment, huh... There really was a reason behind revealing its powers when we first encountered it...
The rest of the group gathers around, also eating.
Johan
Anyhow, thank you, Rhia. And Cheyenne, you too.
Cheyenne was the first to find Johan and carried him to safety as fast as she could.
Cheyenne
I still can't believe that you killed that guy... Are you sure you didn't acquire some ability as well?
Johan continues munching on the apple, his gaze distant.
Cheyenne throws another banana to his face.
Johan
Ow...
Holden
How many bananas are you carrying..?
Johan
Wait, what happened to that other guy? Lance?
Cheyenne sighs as she remembers.
After bringing Johan to the others, Cheyenne had returned to check on Lance, only to find his body missing, leaving behind only a smiley face etched in blood on the ground. She suspected he wasn't dead, but hadn't expected him to vanish so quickly.
Cheyenne
Got away. What a rat...
Johan finishes eating the apple and heads toward the door.
Johan
I'm gonna get some fresh air.
Cheyenne
Hold on, you didn't answer my question.
Johan pauses and briefly covers his eye with his hand.
After a moment, he tilts his head, appearing clueless.
Johan
Hmm, can't remember much.
Cheyenne squints at him in annoyance as Johan exits through the door.
Ext. Outside of the Store - Continuous
The night air fills in Johan's nose, its scent hinting at a soon change in weather.
Johan
Rain...
He could tell the impending downpour, yet... He wondered... Why was there this feeling of uncertainty?
The wisdom sleeping in his mind was being tainted by the despair that lurked within...
Glancing down, Johan notices four ants scurrying in different directions.
It was an unusual sight, as they typically move in unison.
The door swings open, and the others come out as well.
Scotty
Man, I'm full!
Johan
You did eat five burgers in one go.
They gather under the shelter of the store's roof, finding a moment of peace.
They all crave it, especially after the trials they endured.
Yet, despite the tranquility, feelings of unease remains.
Breaking the solace, Holden speaks up.
Holden
Do you all believe... Some people are inherently special?
Johan
In... What sense?
Holden
Like... Destined to excel beyond others. Or destined to live longer...
Everyone ponders the question for a moment.
Rhia
Well, if we're discussing fate, I'd say it's possible... Each person's fate is unique, and some may indeed be perceived as more favorable...
Scotty
I guess so huh... Even when we look at the history, not everyone find themselves immortalized. Only a select few, those who have lived influential lives, are granted a place in the pages.
Holden's expression turns stern, contemplating Rhia and Scotty's perspectives.
Cheyenne interjects abruptly.
Cheyenne
There's no such thing as fate.
Her blunt response piques everyone's curiosity.
Cheyenne
Sure, some people find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time, meeting untimely ends. But other than that, it's entirely up to you. You could blame your circumstances, but in the end, any shortcomings boil down to your capabilities.
Cheyenne's words elicit nods of agreement, acknowledging their truth. However, it only leaves Holden even more perplexed.
Johan weighs in.
Johan
Hmm... Fate to live longer than others... That's too complicated in my opinion. We'll probably never know. But, fate of being better than others, nah... That doesn't exist.
Holden
How... How so, Johan?
Johan
Everyone starts with nothing. And as we grow, we'll achieve more. Maybe some will achieve more than others, but we don't have time to waste asking for things we don't have. We can only look for the best way to fight with the things we already have. And does that make them inferior? No.
The diverse responses to Holden's question conflicts him internally in ways he never thought. He could only nod, silently etching every word into his mind, hopeful that one day they may collectively illuminate the answer he seeks.
Cheyenne
Boring!
Cheyenne hops onto the roof, dangling her legs in the air.
At this point, these extraordinary feats had become commonplace for the group.
Cheyenne
What we should be thinking about right now is figure out what's our next plan? Live here for the rest of our lives?
Rhia
I've also been meaning to ask that...
Johan mulls it over for a moment, only to realize that everyone has fallen silent. He turns to see everyone's eyes fixed on him, even Cheyenne lowering her head from the roof.
Johan
(Innocently)
Hmm?
Cheyenne
We're all asking you, leader.
Johan
What?
(Flustered)
Oh no no no no. I'm no leader!
Johan denies vehemently, waving his hands.
Cheyenne
You're as strong as me, you're fit for it.
Holden drapes an arm around Johan's shoulder.
Holden
It's not just that.
(Facing Johan)
Johan, you probably haven't noticed it, but everyone here respects you. You are the most clear-sighted person here, so naturally, we look to you for guidance.
Johan pauses, then lowers his hands in acquiescence.
Johan
Okay...
(Smiles)
I'll be the leader in name only.
Holden enthusiastically shakes him, while Rhia and Scotty exchange high fives with Johan.
Johan
Well... Anyone have a destination in mind?
No one answers the question as they were still unsure on whether or not leaving the state was a good option. But Johan knew that, at least, aimless wandering was preferable to doing nothing at all.
Johan
Let's just go, yeah? Just travel across the country without any specific destination. We'll simply do whatever we feel like at that moment.
Cheyenne abruptly lowers her head from the roof again, startling Johan.
Cheyenne
I like that.
Cheyenne was very excited from hearing Johan's offer, evident in her beaming smile.
Holden
We'll need a bigger car then. Maybe we could find a RV?
Scotty
OH! It's gonna be like one epic road trip!!!
Scotty's enthusiasm matches Cheyenne, his voice brimming with energy.
Johan
So, should we do it?
Cheyenne
(Nodding vigorously)
Yup.
Holden
(Smiling)
Why not?
Rhia nods resolutely.
Scotty
Absolutely!
Suddenly, a raindrop patters against the ground.
All eyes turn upward, watching as more raindrops join the first in a gentle shower.
It was no heavy downpour, but just a light shower that will soon pass.
Int. Outlet Clothes Store - Early Morning
The pre-dawn darkness enveloped the store, punctuated by the soft patter of rain outside.
Johan stirred from his slumber, blinking sleep from his eyes as he surveyed the sleeping forms of his companions.
All except Cheyenne.
Rubbing his eyes to shake off the last remnants of sleep, Johan rose to his feet and begins to explore the store.
As he reached the far corner, he discovers Cheyenne engaged in push-ups on the cold marble floor. The glisten of sweat on her skin suggesting she's been at it for a while.
Cheyenne
(Mid-push-up)
Still pretty early, isn't it?
Johan squatted down, observing her with quiet admiration from a respectful distance.
Sensing his gaze, Cheyenne glanced up, finding Johan watching her with a mixture of awe and curiosity.
Cheyenne
What?
Johan
Do you always work out this early?
Cheyenne eases out of her push-up position and settles onto the floor, grabbing the towel draped around her neck to dab away the sweat.
Cheyenne
For some time now.
Johan
(Quietly)
Hmm...
He hadn't fully realized until now just how physically fit Cheyenne was, far beyond the norm for a girl her age.
Cheyenne
Why?
(Defensive)
You think it's weird?
Johan
No, why would I?
Cheyenne
Then, what's with the straight face?
Johan
(Softly)
I was just thinking that I should start doing it as well.
Cheyenne
Huh?
Johan
Oh, I forgot.
Johan reaches into his pocket and retrieves the red-handled knife.
Johan
Here. I'll give this back to you.
Cheyenne stares at the knife but makes no move to reclaim it.
Johan
(Confused)
You don't want it?
Cheyenne
I sort of stole it from you, didn't I?
Johan
Yeah... But, this time, I'm giving it to you. As a present.
Johan smiles warmly, extending the knife once more.
Cheyenne meets Johan's eyes and gives a slight nod.
Cheyenne
(Accepting the knife)
Present, huh...
Johan rises to his feet, ready to head back, but Cheyenne unexpectedly low-sweeps him, knocking him off balance.
Johan manages to halt his fall by planting his hand on the ground.
As he rights himself, he turns to face Cheyenne, who deftly twirls the knife between her fingers.
Cheyenne
I did say you're as strong as me now, but I need to see it for myself.
She sticks her tongue out playfully.
Johan lets out a small chuckle and stretches his arms.
Johan
You defeated me in under a minute last time, right? Let's see how it goes this time around.
Cheyenne giggles and springs forward, leaping toward Johan.
She initiates with a swift kick, followed by a barrage of jabs as soon as her feet touch the ground.
Johan deftly dodges and blocks each strike, managing to grab one of her wrists.
Cheyenne
Wow. Not bad.
Johan
Thanks-
Before he can finish, Cheyenne lunges with a stab from her free hand, forcing Johan to release his grip and retreat.
Johan
I've been meaning to ask. Did you learn any martial arts?
Cheyenne discards the towel on her neck and flicks her hair back.
Cheyenne
Nope. Now let's get serious.
With a flick of her wrist, Cheyenne tosses the knife into the air and lunges with a powerful palm strike.
Johan deflects it with his elbow, launching a counter-kick. However, Cheyenne swiftly retrieves the knife and aims a downward thrust.
Reacting quick, Johan ensnares her arm with his own and hurls her to the ground, causing her to lose her grip on the knife.
Cheyenne is taken aback by Johan's unexpected maneuver and strength.
As they both hit the ground, Johan prepares to strike again, but pauses mid-action.
Johan
Much better than last time, yeah?
Cheyenne smirks, revealing another knife she had concealed.
Cheyenne
Yeah, but I would've eventually won.
Johan sheepishly laughs.
Johan
Isn't it unfair that you're the only one with a knife?
Cheyenne
There's no such thing as unfairness in a fight, stupid.
Johan stands to his feet and extends a hand to help her up.
Johan
Noted.
Cheyenne sheathes her knives and begins to walk away.
Johan
By the way, Cheyenne... How do my eyes look now?
Cheyenne pauses mid-stride, glancing back over her shoulder.
Cheyenne
Something scary sure lies beneath them now...
Johan
What?
Cheyenne smirks a little and continues walking away.
Ext. Super Market - Morning
Johan stifles a yawn, his hand guiding a shopping cart brimming with groceries, predominantly quick-to-eat items with a longer shelf life.
The group has ventured into a sizable supermarket, a haven for life's essentials.
Johan
I shouldn't have woken up that early...
Scotty sidles up to the cart, depositing five hefty boxes of processed cupcakes before darting off in search of more.
Johan
Scotty, why do you like these so much..? They're practically pure sugar.
Scotty returns, armful of processed donut boxes this time, his enthusiasm overflowing as he adds them to the already crowded cart.
Scotty
How many times do I have to tell you? Sweets kickstart my brain, make me sharper.
Johan
Pretty sure that's just a sugar rush, but oh well.
Johan continues maneuvering the cart toward the checkout counters, glancing over a handwritten list to ensure they've secured all necessities.
Scotty reappears, brandishing boxes of processed brownies.
Johan
If you want those, something else needs to go.
Scotty sulks slightly as he reluctantly places the excess boxes on the counter.
Scotty
Fine...
Suddenly, the rapid clatter of cart wheels echoed from behind, and Johan and Scotty turned to witness Cheyenne hurtling toward them. She was pushing the cart with all her might, her feet perched on the ledge.
Just before the loud collision with the counter, Cheyenne smoothly slid into the cart, throwing her hands up triumphantly.
Johan gapes in astonishment, while Scotty's eyes gleamed with the prospect of trying the same.
Scotty
W-Where's a cart?!
Johan
Please don't try that...
Rhia joins them, wheeling her own fully laden cart.
Rhia
I think I got everything, how's it looking for you guys?
Johan
Yeah, good to go here. Aside from few junk food...
Cheyenne
(Coming out of the cart)
Already taken care of.
She gestures toward the exit where another cart brimmed with water and beverages.
Johan
Let's head outside and wait for Holden then.
They exit the market, casually bypassing the checkout area with their carts full of unpaid items.
Ext. Outside of Market - Continuous
Outside the market, a colossal silver RV rolled into view, prompting excited gasps from the group.
Scotty
Whoa... This is awesome!
Holden emerged from the driver's seat, wearing a proud grin.
Holden
Went for the biggest one on the lot.
He swung open the door, beckoning everyone inside.
They eagerly piled in, their eyes widening at the sight of the interior.
The RV boasted a spacious layout with luxurious amenities—a sleek bathroom, comfortable sofa, fully equipped kitchen, ample storage space, and a U-shaped dinette for meals.
For sleeping arrangements, it offered a private queen bed with its own wardrobe, dual bunk beds, and three additional sleeping areas overhead.
Holden
I think this will be enough for at least eight people. What do you all think?
Johan nods thoughtfully, taking in the layout.
Johan
Looks good. The girls can sleep in the bedroom and we'll take the beds in front.
Holden
Yeah, of course.
Rhia, inspecting the sink, spins around with surprise at their swift planning. A warm smile spreads across her face.
She then tries to get Cheyenne's attention, only to discover her already stretched out on the queen bed.
Cheyenne
This is nice...
Rhia chuckles softly, feeling a touch embarrassed by Cheyenne's speedy claim.
As Johan and Holden discuss the RV's features, the sudden ding of a microwave interrupts them.
Back at the front of the RV, Johan and Holden discuss the RV's features, but the sudden ding of a microwave interrupts them.
They turn to see Scotty holding a freshly heated brownie.
Scotty
Microwave works fine!
Holden
(Laughing)
Well, looks like everyone's liking it.
Johan nods, his gaze sweeping over the interior one last time.
This RV was about to become their home.
Ext. Highway Road - Afternoon
As the RV cruised along the deserted highway, the vast expanse of the desert landscape stretched out around them, framed by towering rocky mountains.
Behind the wheel, Holden glanced at the old-fashioned paper map spread out before him, navigating their course with practiced ease.
In the bedroom, Rhia meticulously arranged her belongings, finding solace in the simple act of tidying up their living space.
Meanwhile, Cheyenne reclined on the bed, her features softened by the gentle embrace of sleep, an eye mask shielding her from the harsh glare of the sun.
On the couch, Johan sat in quiet contemplation, his gaze fixed on the ever-changing scenery passing by outside the window.
Beside him, Scotty struggled to keep his eyes open, the effects of a sugar crash slowly starting to take their toll.
From an outsider's perspective, they appeared to be nothing more than a group of friends embarking on an exciting road trip, seemingly capable of returning to their homes at any given moment..
But beneath this facade lay a stark truth: they were individuals who had been stripped of nearly everything they once held dear. Left with only each other, they grappled with an overwhelming sense of emptiness that permeated their existence.
Adrift in a world devoid of purpose, they wandered aimlessly, their lives devoid of direction or destination.
Scotty
Hey.
Scotty nudges Johan gently to catch his attention.
Johan
What's up?
Scotty
I still have hope, you know... Out of the blue, we came into this world. And maybe, just maybe, out of the blue, we might get out of it as well.
Johan doesn't respond verbally, simply nodding in agreement.
Johan
Mmm...
Scotty
But if we never do, I won't be too sad.
Johan's eyes widened, focusing intently on Scotty.
Scotty
(All smiles)
I'll have you and our new friends.
Upon hearing Scotty's words, Johan blinks consecutively, as if a multitude of thoughts flood his mind all at once.
Then... A smile tugged at the corners of his lips.
Johan
Yeah, I won't be too sad either. Who knows... Life in this world might get... No... Might be better.
Int. Hotel Lobby - Night
The hotel lobby, once a sanctuary of elegance and tranquility, now bore witness to a grim tableau of carnage. Lifeless human bodies lay strewn across the pristine marble floor, some still whole, while others bore the gruesome marks of violence.
Blood splattered the walls and ceiling. Even the chandelier, once a symbol of opulence, now dripped with the evidence of the massacre below, its crystals refracting the light in a ghastly shade of red.
Amidst the chaos, a lone figure sat perched upon the front desk, a stark contrast to the devastation that surrounded them. Clad in a tattered grey coat, the fabric marred by splatters of blood.
Obscured behind an imposing iron face mask, the figure exuded an aura of cold authority, their posture regal as they reclined in the chair, arms resting on the armrests with an air of dominance.
With a deliberate motion, the figure raised their head, revealing nothing but the unyielding surface of their faceplate.
Ext. Forest - Morning
In the embrace of the forest, a solitary figure adorned in a sleek black athletic shirt, loose-fitting brown training pants, and nimble black martial arts slippers reclined against the earth. The man lay prone, his form obscured by the length of a formidable sword embedded firmly in the ground beside him.
The man's gaze, fixed skyward, seemed to trace the patterns of the shifting clouds, lost in silent reverie..
A procession of deer, approached with cautious curiosity, drawn by the presence of the man.
Int. Office - Noon
A hand moved swiftly across the page, the scratch of pen against paper echoing in the quiet expanse of the room. Words, indecipherable to any but the writer, danced across the sheet—a testament to the abundance of thoughts in motion.
???
Hmm...
The figure paused, turning towards the window with a languid grace. Long strands of dark orange hair cascaded over their shoulder, swaying gently in the air as if stirred by an unseen breeze.
Adjacent to the window, a magnificent silver trident rested against the wall, its intricate craftsmanship a testament to a bygone era. Yet, despite its museum-worthy appearance, the weapon bore the marks of recent use
Outside, the rain pelted against the windowpane, obscuring the view beyond with a veil of mist.