Ext. Parking Lot - Day
The sun still hangs high on the horizon, casting shadows across the school's parking lot.
Holden, his face marked by Johan's punches, carefully places their bags into the trunk of the car.
The weight of the situation hasn't lessened, but both of them are now tethered by a shared understanding of their grief.
Johan stands nearby, Yuna's body cradled gently in his arms. The sheets that Holden found, cloak her form, a final layer of protection and dignity.
Despite the shock and sorrow that surrounds them, there's a solemn determination in their actions.
Holden closes the trunk and opens the back door of his car. Johan then carefully places Yuna's body onto the backseat, arranging the sheets with a tenderness that speaks of his affection for her.
Once Yuna is settled, Johan steps back, his eyes lingering on her form for a moment longer. He wipes his tears away, his expression a mixture of sadness, anger, and a yearning for answers.
Holden joins Johan's side, his own emotions a storm beneath his calm exterior. He places a hand on Johan's shoulder, a gesture of support in this sea of sorrow.
Holden
We need to get her home. It's the least we can do.
Johan nods, his voice heavy with grief.
Johan
Yeah...
When covering Yuna's body with the sheets, Johan found three harrowing stab wounds on her side. And upon closer inspection of the classroom, Holden made a chilling discovery – one of the windows had been shattered.
When they exchanged this information, unspoken theories brewed within each of them. However, a tacit agreement held them back from vocalizing their suspicions. Deep down, they silently vowed never to let these facts slip from their memory.
With a deep breath, Holden moves to the driver's side while Johan takes the passenger seat, keeping his gaze on Yuna's covered body in the back.
Ext. City Streets - Moments Later
The city lay oppressively quiet, a stillness so profound it felt almost surreal. The ordinary sounds of birds and the whispering wind were now amplified in the absence of bustling life.
The roads, once bustling with cars, stood deserted.
The vanishing of the usual cityscape didn't startle Holden and Johan. They had witnessed enough by now to be prepared for anything.
Holden's gaze scanned the eerie emptiness. Johan took a deep breath as he looked around.
Ext. Outside of Yuna's House - Moments Later
Holden and Johan's car pulls up in front of the house.
Holden
(Eyes on the house, voice uncertain)
This is her house, right?
Johan furrows his brows, his grief-stricken mind trying to recall the details Yuna had shared.
Johan
(Softly, as he remembers)
Yeah, she mentioned a purple roof.
Johan looks up, and amidst the ordinary houses, the vivid hue of a single purple roof stands out.
Johan
(With certainty)
This is the one.
They exchange a glance, both knowing that what lies ahead won't be easy.
Johan opens the car door opposite Yuna's house and carefully lifts her body. Holden gathers his courage, clutching Yuna's backpack, and moves towards the front door.
Holden gives a firm knock, the sound echoing through the quiet neighborhood. They wait, but the only response is the unsettling silence.
Holden
(His voice taut with worry)
There's no answer. Maybe... Maybe they're just not home.
Johan's eyes betray a flicker of realization, an unspoken fear they both share.
Johan
(Gently but somberly)
Holden, we need to accept it. They could be gone too.
Holden's frustration and desperation manifest as he knocks harder, each thud echoing their anxiety.
Deep down, Holden knows that the absence of Yuna's parents could mean something far more devastating. His thoughts churn with fear, not only for Yuna's family but for his own as well.
Johan
(Trying to reason)
Holden, stop. Yuna probably kept a spare key in her backpack. Can you look for it?
Holden swiftly unzips Yuna's backpack and rummages inside, his fingers closing around a small object.
Holden
Got it...
The door clicks open, revealing the dim interior of Yuna's home. As they step inside, the heavy silence envelops them, a chilling confirmation of their fears.
Int. Yuna's House - Continuous
The somber atmosphere of the house is tangible as Holden and Johan silently explore their surroundings.
They both come to a halt, standing in the living room, their expressions heavy with uncertainty.
Holden's voice breaks the quietude.
Holden
Where should we... Place her body... Looks like they have a backyard-
Johan
(Cutting him off)
No.
Johan's eyes well up with sorrow as he processes the reality of their situation.
Johan
(Stuttering)
T-That... That's too...
Holden's shoulders slump, understanding Johan's sentiment even before he finishes his sentence.
Holden
(Sighs)
You're right. It's too impersonal.
They both understand that Yuna deserves a more meaningful end.
Holden
So, what then? What do you think we should do?
Johan's eyes become resolute as he gently lifts Yuna's body, carrying her with utmost care.
Int. Yuna's Bedroom - Continuous
Johan enters Yuna's room, his footsteps soft and heavy with emotion. Holden follows, Yuna's backpack in his hand.
Johan lays Yuna's body down on her bed, his gaze lingering on her peaceful yet lifeless form.
After a moment of silent reverence, he steps back and exits the room, his face etched with unspoken thoughts.
Holden
Johan?
Few minutes later, Johan reenters the room, a collection of framed pictures clutched in his hands.
He places them with care on the bedside table, the images capturing Yuna's radiant smiles, her moments of joy frozen in time with her family and friends.
He then steps back and takes a moment of silence with Holden.
Time seems to stand still as they again confront the painful reality of their friend's absence, surrounded by the echoes of her presence.
But both of them share a moment of silent reflection, their thoughts and emotions a complex tapestry woven from their personal and shared experiences with Yuna.
Holden's voice breaks the solemn silence, the severity of the circumstances urging them to make a difficult decision.
Holden
(Softly)
We should go.
Johan's gaze reluctantly tears away from the pictures, his acknowledgment of the necessity heavy.
Johan
(Nods)
I know...
They turn and begin to make their way towards the bedroom door.
However, Johan pauses just before exiting the room. Holden, puzzled, looks back at him.
Holden
What's wrong?
Johan moves to Yuna's backpack. Holden watches, his curiosity deepening.
Johan
I want to keep something to remember her by.
Holden's expression softens as he understands Johan's intention.
Johan carefully takes the bell keychain from Yuna's backpack, his fingers tracing its contours as if committing them to memory.
Johan
And I...
(Hesitates for a moment)
Will definitely find the person who killed her.
Holden's eyes reflect his understanding and respect for Johan's gesture.
As Johan walks towards the bedroom exit, Holden pats him on the back.
And with a final look around the room, the two walks out of the bedroom, gently closing the door behind them.
Ext. Outside of Yuna's House - Moments Later
Johan locks the front door and with a sense of finality, he slips the key under the doormat.
He heads to the car, where Holden is waiting, but his steps falter suddenly.
Johan
(Realizes)
Oh.
He gazes down at his shirt and notices the vivid splotches of blood that now stain it, stark against the fabric.
Johan's expression reflects a mix of shock and acceptance.
Johan gathers his strength, masking his own turmoil, and walks towards the car.
Int. Holden's Car - Continuous
Inside the car, Holden's legs involuntarily shake, a manifestation of the overwhelming emotions coursing through him. He clutches the steering wheel, his knuckles turning white as he tries to steady himself.
The momentary silence is broken by Johan entering the car.
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
Johan
(His tone steady)
Let's go to your house.
Holden offers a nod, his face a mask concealing the worries and fears churning beneath the surface.
Int. Holden's House - Moments Later
Holden steps through the threshold of his home, his footsteps echoing in the emptiness. He walks through the familiar spaces, each corner a poignant reminder of the life that once thrived here. The absence is deafening – no laughter, no voices, no signs of his family's presence.
As he moves through the house, his heart aches with every room he enters. His mom's favorite armchair sits unoccupied, his dad's tools neatly arranged but untouched, and his little sister's toys remain still, frozen in time. Reality hits him hard – they're all gone, leaving behind an emptiness that seems insurmountable.
Unable to contain his grief any longer, Holden sinks to the floor, his sobs wracking his body. It was a moment of vulnerability, a release of the pent-up emotions he's been holding at bay.
Johan stands silently, a witness to Holden's pain, understanding the storm of emotions that await him when they reach his house.
But, in this moment of anguish, he contemplates his own imminent confrontation with a similar scene, wondering if he will react the same way.
His relationship with his family was complicated... A tangle of emotions that he's never fully understood.
As Holden's cries reverberate through the empty house, Johan knew that the only way to comfort him at that moment was to be quiet though. Let him go through his emotions.
Twenty minutes pass, and the grief gradually eases its grip on Holden. He rises from the floor, wiping away the remnants of his tears.
Holden
(Still trembling a little)
I'm sorry you had to see that, Johan.
Johan's gaze is gentle, understanding. He places a hand on Holden's shoulder.
Johan
(Shakes his head gently)
No need to apologize, Holden. Absolutely no need.
Holden manages a weak smile, appreciating Johan's silent support.
Johan was actually surprised. He was impressed how quickly Holden managed to pull himself together in the face of such loss.
Maybe, it was because there was still hope that they can return back to their world...
Holden gestures toward the hallway.
Holden
Let me get you a shirt to wear. I just realized yours is...
Johan looks down on his shirt again, the color of the blood had turned darker.
Holden disappears into a room and comes back with a fresh shirt for Johan.
Ext. Outside of Holden's House - Moments Later
Holden and Johan step out of the front door, locking it behind them.
The streets are still disturbingly quiet, a stark contrast to the bustling city they once knew.
Johan takes a deep breath, his gaze fixed on the path ahead.
Johan
(Resolute)
Well... It's my house now.
Holden quietly nods.
They both know that the scene awaiting them won't be any different from what they've just experienced.
Ext. Outside of Johan's House - Noon
As they stand before Johan's house, silence falls between them. The weight of the unknown future hangs heavily in the air.
Johan leads the way to the front door, but Holden can't help but inquire about Johan's family.
Holden
(Curious)
So, are your family members usually home?
Johan
Not really. My dad and mom, they're always caught up in work. My older sister... Well, I don't know much about what she's up to.
Holden's brows knit slightly, ready to inquire further, but he hesitates when he catches the flicker of unease that crosses Johan's features. The topic of family seems to have stirred something unsettling within him.
Johan's fingers wrap around the doorknob, his heartbeat audible in the stillness of the moment. But before he can push the door open, it turns from the inside, causing him to freeze.
The door swings open, revealing a young guy standing in the doorway.
Recognition flashes across Johan's face.
Johan
(In disbelief)
S-Scotty?
Johan steps forward, and the young guy, Scotty, rushes out and engulfs Johan in a tight embrace. Their reunion is filled with an unspoken understanding, a shared bond that transcends words.
Scotty
(In Korean)
Johan, man! I can't believe it!
(Notices the bandages)
Hey, what's wrong with your arm.
Holden watches the scene unfold, his confusion growing with each passing moment. The familiarity between Johan and Scotty is evident, but it's the sudden switch to a language unfamiliar to Holden that puzzled him.
Johan
(Breaking the hug and grabbing his shoulders)
(In Korean)
Scotty! You were chosen as well..? Man, I don't know if I should be worried or happy. But, I'm glad to see you right now right here. Oh, and the arm. It's just a little sore, don't worry.
Holden (V.O.)
What language was that? Johan was Korean, I think...
Johan and Scotty continue speaking, their words flowing effortlessly in a language that Holden can't decipher.
Johan finally seem to notice Holden's confusion.
Johan
(Turns to Holden)
Oh, sorry about that, Holden. This guy right here is Scotty. I've known him since I was like six. He lives in Burbank as well, but attends a different school. Oh! And also, he's a year younger than us.
Scotty's hand extends toward Holden, radiating positivity with his infectious grin.
Holden's apprehension eases as he grasps Scotty's hand in return.
Scotty
(Beaming)
Hey there, I'm Scotty Park. So nice to meet another person!
Holden manages a small smile, his tension melting away in the face of Scotty's enthusiastic energy.
Scotty Park, slightly shorter than Johan and Holden, has a warm and friendly demeanor. His hair styled in a soft perm, gives him an approachable charm.
Holden shakes Scotty's hand and introduces himself.
Holden
My name is Holden Finsley. Really nice to meet you too.
Scotty's curiosity seems boundless as he launches into a barrage of questions, his excitement noticeable.
Scotty
(Rapidly firing questions)
So, did you guys meet that light kid? And what about that monster? If you did see that monster, how on earth did you make it out alive? Wait, I'm not the only one who saw those beings, right? Am I going crazy?!
Johan steps in, interrupting Scotty's rapid-fire inquiries.
Johan
(Grinning)
Slow down, Scotty! First things first, why were you in my house?
Scotty's smile doesn't falter as he explains his own journey since the calamity struck.
He was at school too, and upon awakening, found himself alone. He drove to his house only to find it empty, and the sadness in his voice is evident.
His expression shifts to one of concern as he shares his encounter with a Gier on the freeway. He explains that he hurriedly drove away from it.
And not knowing where else to go, he ended up at Johan's house, only to discover it deserted as well.
This revelation confirms Johan's fears about his own family's fate.
Johan then fills Scotty in on their experiences, including their trip to Holden's house, and Scotty nods in silent understanding.
However, a realization dawns on them – three of them, possibly could be the only survivors in the city.
In an attempt to lighten the mood, Scotty shifts the conversation and points at the bell keychain hanging from Johan's pants.
Scotty
(Playfully)
Hey, what's with the cute keychain there, Johan?
Johan's smile fades, and he brushes off the question, not wanting to delve further.
Johan
It's nothing important to talk about. Don't worry about it.
Noticing Johan's discomfort, Holden steers the conversation toward the details of their encounter with the monster, Gier. Scotty's intrigue deepens, and Johan suggests they continue the discussion inside the house.
Int. Johan's House Living Room - Afternoon
Holden
So, that's about it.
Holden concludes their gripping account of battling Gier, the dangerous monsters that now haunt their city. An hour of conversation and intermittent rest has passed, allowing a sense of camaraderie to settle among them, even amidst the grim circumstances. Holden deliberately avoids mentioning about Yuna, keeping the painful details unspoken mostly for Johan.
Scotty breaks into applause, genuinely captivated by their incredible account.
Scotty
(Clapping)
Wow, can't believe it. Can't believe it at all.
As Johan heads to fetch some water for them, Scotty seizes the opportunity to address his rumbling stomach.
Scotty
(Grinning)
Johan sir, I'm hungry! Got anything to eat?
Johan chuckles and confesses that there isn't much in the house.
This admission leads them back to the question that's been lurking in the background, a question they've all been avoiding: Where should they go from here? They can't remain holed up in Johan's house indefinitely.
Johan returns with a tray of water glasses, placing them on the coffee table.
Johan
We can't stay here forever. Eventually, we'll run out of supplies, and we don't even know if it's safe in the city anymore.
Holden nods in agreement.
Holden
We need a plan.
Scotty interjects, his tone earnest.
Scotty
(Determined)
I think we need to find more people.
Johan
(Agrees, but intrigued)
But how? How do we find them?
Scotty leans forward, his eyes alight with a plan forming in his mind.
Scotty
(Excited to explain)
We go to the most popular place in the city, the mall. It was a hub of activity, and people might have gathered there for safety. If anyone's left, that's where they'll be.
Johan furrows his brows, deep in thought, while Holden's expression shifts from uncertainty to affirmation.
Holden
(Resolute)
It's a risky move... But I think it's worth it. If we find survivors, we can pool our resources and increase our chances of survival.
Johan
(Nods slowly)
You're right, let's do it then. But. We need to be cautious. Giers could be still around, so the mall might be dangerous.
Scotty's gaze sweeps between Johan and Holden, a mixture of determination and hope in his eyes.
Scotty
Eh, we'll stick together. We can watch each other's back! And if we find anyone else, more people to watch our backs. Now, on three!
Johan and Holden exchange puzzled glances, not quite understanding Scotty's enthusiasm.
Scotty
(Playfully)
Come on, put your hands together.
Holden awkwardly complies, while Johan wanders off to somewhere else in the room.
Ext. City Mall - Moments Later
Holden pulls out a bag from the trunk, its contents clinking softly.
He carefully inspects the items inside: a baseball bat, cricket bat, bottle of sulfuric acid, hammer from a tool box, few baseballs, and a pair of scissors.
He shoulders the bag and walks over to the mall entrance, where Johan and Scotty are already surveying the interior.
Scotty
(Whispering)
Looks empty.
Holden gently drops the bag onto the ground and suggests that each of them take something for protection.
He reaches in and retrieves his baseball bat.
Scotty
(Contemplating)
Hmm, let's see...
Scotty's eyes scan the bag before he finally chooses the cricket bat.
Scotty
(Admiring)
This looks good! Quite heavy and big.
Johan seems hesitant, standing without grabbing anything.
Holden raises an eyebrow, questioning.
Holden
Johan?
Johan pulls out a well-crafted pocket knife with a red and white handle and a protective sleeve.
Johan
(Explaining)
Brought a knife from my home. I'm gonna hide it though because I want to look unarmed. I don't want to look hostile if we meet other people.
He slides the knife back into his pocket as the three prepare to enter the mall.
Int. City Mall - Continuous
The interior of the mall unfolds before them, an uncanny vacantness stretching out like a surreal dream.
Shops stand open, their displays untouched, as if time froze.
Scotty
This is just... Unreal. It feels a little peaceful while also having a scary vibe.
They continue their cautious exploration, stepping lightly as if expecting the world to shatter at any sound.
As they walk, they stumble upon an escalator, and to their surprise, it's still operational. The soft hum of the machinery contrasts with the emptiness around them.
Holden
(Wondering aloud)
Everywhere we've been, the power is still on. How?
Scotty shrugs, equally perplexed.
Scotty
Who knows how this city's systems are set up? Let's just be glad we have some light and working escalators.
Johan, his eyes scanning their surroundings, speaks up.
Johan
I'll check the second floor. You two cover the rest of the first floor.
With a nod, they split up, Johan stepping onto the escalator, its motion carrying him upward.
Scotty glances back at Johan as he goes though.
For a fleeting moment, he senses a hidden layer of sadness and sorrow in Johan's posture. He dismisses it, attributing it to the overwhelming circumstances they find themselves in.
Int. City Mall Second Floor - Continuous
Johan walks cautiously through the second floor of the mall, his eyes scanning every store, his senses heightened in the silence.
The emptiness feels suffocating, yet he pushes forward, determined to find any sign of life.
As he walks, a distinct aroma catches his attention. It's a smell he recognizes, a smell that triggers a mix of emotions within him.
He quickens his pace, following the scent to a particular store.
Int. City Mall Food court - Continuous
Scotty's voice carries a playful tune as he sings out the names of various food items while they're passing the food court.
Scotty
(Singing)
Pretzel, donuts, chicken, kebab, burgers, hot dog, lemonade, donuts!
Holden and Scotty continues to stroll through the food court, taking in the sights and smells of the deserted dining area.
Scotty
(Begging)
Holden... Please. Let's just grab one bite.
Holden hesitates, torn between exploring the mall and satisfying his hunger, but finally disagrees, mentioning they'll look around the mall first.
Scotty
I'll just get one donut! Be right back!
Scotty's enthusiasm doesn't waver as he heads straight to a donut shop, his eyes fixated on the sugary delights behind the glass display.
Holden
Hey, wait up!
Holden hurries to catch up with Scotty.
However, Scotty suddenly stops in his tracks, his hand held up in a gesture to alert Holden.
Holden quiets down, his ears attuned to any sounds that might have caught Scotty's attention.
Together, they tread carefully toward the donut shop, their eyes narrowing as they scan the area and their hands gripping the weapons they yield.
They reach the counter, poised to investigate the source of the sound.
Suddenly, a figure pops up from behind the counter, catching Scotty and Holden off guard. The two stumble back, caught by surprise.
The person who emerges is a girl with long hair, her expression mirroring their astonishment.
???
(Apologetic)
O-Oh my god, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I heard voices and, well, hid under this counter without thinking much.
Scotty recovers with a grin, assuring her that it's all good and expressing his excitement about meeting another person.
Scotty
(Laughing)
No problemo! It's all good. I'm Scotty by the way!
Holden regains his composure and offers a sheepish smile.
Holden
We should apologize as well. But, it is great to meet another person. Name is Holden.
The girl smiles back, seemingly relieved by their friendly response.
???
(Smiling)
Hi, Holden and Scotty! You can call me Rhia.
Rhia Feo, seemingly around their age, boasts a cascade of straight, lustrous hair that falls gracefully down her back. Her skin carries a warm, tannish brown hue that lends an air of natural beauty to her features, rendering her rather captivating at first glance.
Scotty, grabbing a donut, takes a bite and nods appreciatively.
Scotty
(Curious)
So, are you the only person here?
Rhia
(Shaking her head)
No actually, there's someone else I met.
Holden's eyebrows raise, a mix of intrigue and surprise coloring his expression.
Holden
Someone else? Where are they?
Rhia
(Looking upwards)
Probably still upstairs. I was heading down to grab something to eat when I heard you guys.
Holden's curiosity deepens, and he asks a question that's been on his mind.
Holden
Is there anything else here? I mean, besides people.
Rhia
(Realizing)
Ah, you mean a Gier, right?
Holden's surprise at her mentioning the Gier is evident.
Holden
(Nods)
Yeah, that's what I meant. Is there any here?
Rhia
(Smiling)
There was one, but don't worry about it. We took care of it.
Holden's confusion deepens, and Scotty pauses in finishing the donut, sensing the seriousness of the conversation.
Holden
(Stunned)
Really? How. How did you guys?
Rhia
(Little embarrassed)
You'd have to ask the other person because I honestly didn't do much.
(Curious about them)
What about you guys? Are you the only two?
Holden
(Still shocked)
No, there's one more guy. Uh, he went upstairs.
Rhia's expression turns pale, and she exclaims in concern.
Rhia
Oh no...
Rhia leaps over the counter and starts running towards the escalator.
Holden and Scotty exchange puzzled glances before following her, both calling out for an explanation.
Holden
What's wrong?
Scotty
Everything alright?
Rhia looks back at them, worry etched on her face
Rhia
Your friend... He's in trouble...
Int. City Mall Second Floor - Continuous
Johan steps into a clothing shop, his eyes scanning the surroundings. And what he finds is a scene that both surprises and shocks him.
Before him lies a dead Gier, sprawled on the floor, its chest marred by the marks of a fierce battle.
Johan squats down, examining the dead creature before him, the scent of death and decay filling his nostrils. It's a scent he has come to recognize all too well.
Suddenly, a swift movement from a nearby clothing rack catches his attention.
Reflexes sharp, Johan dodges to the side just in time.
Emerging from the shadows is a girl, appearing to be around his age, yet carrying an air of maturity that's striking. Her hair is medium-length, black with hints of dirty green at the ends.
Her presence is commanding, her grip firm on a sizable knife.
Johan, a mixture of surprise and caution in his voice, starts to introduce himself.
Johan
(With a tentative smile)
Hi, uh, I'm-
Before he can even complete his sentence, she lunges forward with alarming speed, the glint of the knife catching the light.
Johan's instincts kick in, and he manages to evade her attack, but her swift motions nearly catch him off guard.
With a mixture of confusion and urgency, he attempts to bridge the gap.
Johan
(Frustrated but composed)
Relax! I'm not gonna hurt you!
She shifts her grip on the knife, a sardonic smile playing on her lips as she charges once more.
???
(Tone dripping with sadism)
That doesn't matter because I, on the other hand, really want to hurt you.