81
OVER BLACK:
HEAR the voice of the narrator, DYLLAN LAWSON - a13-year-old boy.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.)The story that I'm going to tell,dates back to the times when ourcountries were still at war. It allbegins with Thomas Lawson - a boywho lived in the streets.
FADE IN:
EXT. THE STREET - DAY - RAIN
THOMAS LAWSON - a white beggar boy of 16 years, with darkhair and complexion, runs through the streets. His rags are soaked from the pouring rain. He knocks on doors of theHOUSES.
THOMASCould you please help me?Kind sir, please spare a dime!Please, at least a glass of water!I'm begging you! I'm starving!
Most houses don't respond. Some harshly reject him.
FIRST MAN (O.C.)Get off here, you pest!
SECOND MAN (O.C.)You again, brat? Beat it!
WOMAN (O.C.)Sorry, child, we've nothing to giveyou!
It THUNDERS. Thomas stops to take a breath.
THOMASDamn it... Damn it all!
(looks up at thethundering sky)
Did I really deserve this? Why areyou not answering? Huh, God?
It THUNDERS more. The rain pours onto Thomas's face. Hespits and runs again. He knocks on doors of HOUSES as wellas RESTAURANTS and INNS. They either ignore or reject himeverywhere.
Thomas reaches a CERTAIN DIRTY DISTRICT OF HIGH BLOCKS withmultiple apartments. He runs into one of the blocks, on adirty ground floor, to hide from the rain.
INT. GROUND FLOOR, NEAR THE ENTRANCE - CONTINUOUS
Thomas sits down on the cold pavement and shivers, hisstomach grumbling. He sees rats feasting upon scrubs.
2.
THOMASDamn, even you guys have it allmerry-go-round! Curse you... Curseit all!
He spits again. He sees a single apartment on the firstfloor upstairs. He hesitates for a certain time, but thenhis stomach grumbles again.
THOMASWell, here goes nothing...
He WALKS UPSTAIRS and knocks on the door.
THOMASExcuse me, I'm a homeless young boyand I've really been starving thewhole day! Please, if you can spareat least a glass of water and apiece of bread! Anything will do, Ibeg you!
There is no response. Thomas heaves a sigh and turns aroundto leave.
HEAR the door creak.
Thomas starts and turns back, to see JANE DIAMOND - a 6-year-old blond curly girl - at the threshold.
JANEYou really are homeless?
THOMASUhm, yes..?
Jane hesitates. She looks back into the apartment, thenagain at Thomas, as if brooding over what to do.
JANEMommy won't be home until midnight.I can let you in... I can't offermuch, there's only milk and cookiesleft. But you must promise meyou're not a bad guy!
THOMASWow... Okay, I promise. So, may Icome in now?
JANEPinky promise?
THOMASYeah yeah, pinky promise, I'm agood guy, I swear.
(shakes her little fingerwith his one)
Now can I come in?
3.
JANESure, but brush your feet on therug, you're kind of dirty. I don'twant mom to get angry with melater, or suspect anything...Usually, I'm not to answer whenstrangers are at the door.
Thomas brushes feet and enters the apartment. Jane closesthe door behind.
INT. JANE'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS
THOMASSo why did you answer then, ifyou're forbidden to?
JANEWell, you did say you were homelessand starving, and I had cookies athome... I thought I'd share sinceI've got a lot.
THOMAS(laughs bitterly)
Damn, if only everyone thought likeyou! This world would be hell of abetter place...
JANEHuh? What did you say?
THOMASNothing... Fancy house, though.
Thomas looks around the apartment. It is orderly and neat.There are many kidly DRAWINGS attached to walls. At aglance, they pollute the view, but in fact, they give thehouse a cosy feeling of a young child living within.
Thomas easily gathers those drawings should be Jane's doing,so he smiles to himself.
JANEHehe, I know, right! All thosedrawings on walls, are mine! Theyare pretty, aren't they?
THOMASThey sure are!
Jane leads Thomas to the DINING ROOM.
INT. JANE'S APARTMENT, THE DINING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Jane pulls a chair for Thomas near the table.
4.
JANEWell, take a seat, uhm... What wasyour name?
THOMAS(laughs)
Oh, I haven't told you, have I?Sorry for my manners. In thestreets, you don't usually needthem... The name's Thomas.
(stretches his hand out)It is a pleasure to know you!
JANE(shakes his hand)
I'm Jane. Nice to meet you, Thomas!Well, take a seat now. I'll get youthe cookies.
Thomas sits on the chair Jane's pointed on. Jane runs intothe kitchen and brings a plate full of delicious cookies.
THOMASWow, those I call cookies!
JANEHehe, thanks! Mommy made them. Shealways makes yummy stuff, and sheloves when guests enjoy them. Soeat as much as you like!
THOMASThanks a bunch!
JANEWait, wait, I need to get the milktoo!
Jane runs off into the kitchen again and brings a cup of hotmilk to Thomas.
JANEI nearly forgot about it!
(laughs)Enjoy!
THOMASHaha, thanks! Damn, just the smellis so delicious!
JANECome on, eat up!
(laughs)You're so strange, I've never seenpeople smelling the food so eagerlybefore! Are all boys like that?
Jane takes a seat near Thomas, who delightfully digs in.
5.
THOMASWhat do you mean, 'all boys'?
(munching cookies)You've never seen other boysbefore?
JANEI've not really known any. Mommysays I'll start school next year,but that too will be a school forall girls.
THOMASWhat about your father?
JANEDaddy's a man, not a boy!
THOMAS(laughs)
Damn! He's been one in the past atleast, hasn't he?
JANEYeah but... Daddy's been away forlong. Mommy says he fights for us,against bad guys.
THOMASOh... You mean he's on thefrontlines? In the war?
JANEYes. Mommy says I should be proudof him. I am proud - he fights allthose bad guys and all, he's ahero... But at times, I do want himto be here. I wish there were nowar. It feels lonely at times, onlyme and mommy...
Tears fill Jane's eyes. Thomas feels pity for her.
THOMASWell, your dad is strong, isn't he?I bet he'll return when the war isover.
JANEBut when? It's been so long!
THOMASNot that long... He'll be back, noworries. You know, there's a saying- if you strongly believe insomething, it comes true. So justbelieve in the day your fathercomes back, and he will.
6.
JANEReally? Who told you that?
THOMASMeh, I've read, somewhere...
(scratches the back ofhis head)
Doesn't really matter. Just trustme, alright? I've told you, I'm agood guy. Good guys never lie, dothey?
Thomas gives her a wink. Jane laughs.
Thomas soon FINISHES eating and drinking milk. He puts somecookies in pockets for the way back. He looks outside.
The rainstorm has stopped. The sun has come out, though itis dusking.
Thomas stands up.
THOMASWell, I guess I'd better head myway until your mother returns.Thanks for the food!
JANEOh? You're leaving already?
(gets sad)We've become such good friends...
THOMAS(laughs)
Damn, you define friendship soeasily! Ugh, for real, if only morepeople were like you, kid...
JANEWhat do you mean?
THOMASNah, nothing. Forget it. Anyway, Ireally need to go.
(heads towards the door)But I am indeed eternally gratefulto you... Jane, was it? You know,no one has been so kind to me foras long as I can remember. I shallalways mention your name in myprayers. Not that I pray too often,but you know...
JANEHuh? Wait, in that case, it's JaneDiamond!
THOMASHuh?
7.
JANEWell, God should know which Janeyou're talking about, right? Mommysays God needs to know the fullname, or else he won't bestow hisblessing.
THOMASWhat?
(chuckles)Damn, that's something new!Alright, alright... Jane Diamond,right? I'll remember! Thank you foreverything, Jane Diamond! Goodbye!
JANEGoodbye Thomas! You really are agood guy! It was fun!
THOMASHaha! Bye!
EXT. THE STREET - CONTINUOUS
Thomas walks out of the block and heads his way, back to thebeggar quarters where his fellow streetrats live.
EXT. THE BEGGAR QUARTERS - NIGHT
BEGGARS are gathered in dark, dirty quarters, near the brickwalls of high buildings. Many are casually sitting on thepavement, some are wrapped in rugs and sleeping, some othersare smoking, drinking, or just cursing among themselves.
Thomas walks on, watching them with apparent contempt.
He walks past a certain WOODEN BUILDING, all broken down andwithered away.
He approaches JOE HUMMINGS - a wrinkled old man lying on thepavement, wrapped in rugs. He is blind and has no feet hencecannot move. Thomas takes a seat beside him.
JOEIs that you, Thomas?
THOMASSorry Joe, left you here all day...I couldn't find a damn penny! Thoseassholes,
(glances at the woodenbuilding)
Who said they can boss around asthey please? That shelter should befor all of us!
8.
JOE(chuckles)
Kid, no need to curse so much! It'sall God's will. If he wants to, heshall bestow his blessing upon us.If not, we are to bear with it.That's the rule of this world. Didyou at least find a sheltersomewhere?
THOMASI did, but... Ugh, what of it ifyou were to soak and starve outhere, eh?
JOEBoy, I'm nearly dead anyway. Itdoesn't matter_
THOMASAll lives matter! You have taughtme that, remember? Is that any waya doctor should talk?!
JOEFormer doctor...
THOMASWho cares? You've saved so manylives, yet look what your God hasdone to you! God... Even if heexists I doubt he cares about us atall!
(spits)That aside, I've at least managedto get you something to eat...
Thomas stuffs a cookie in Joe's hand. Joe examines it withhis hands, then takes a bite. A smile covers his face.
JOEWhere did you get this?
THOMASMeh, some central blocks. There wasthis girl...
JOEOh?
THOMASQuit thinking of shit, Joe!
(reddens up)It's nothing like it, she was justa kid! Maybe 6 or 7 years, notmore!
9.
JOE(laughs)
Sorry, sorry... But you're in sucha good age now, Thomas. You shouldthink about it.
THOMASQuit yapping, old man! How can abeggar rat like me possibly thinkabout girls?!
(spits)Just eat that damn thing, will you?
JOEYou're as harsh as ever, eh,Thomas?
(laughs)You've got a good heart, though...I'm glad you've managed to findsomeone with those same generoustraits. At least, from now on, youwon't think that God doesn't existin this world.
THOMASHuh?
JOEYou see, you've managed to find ashelter from the rainstorm, and akind child has given you food, somuch that you've even managed tobring some to your old friend. Whatis that, if not God's blessing? TheGod held his hand out to you, inthe moments of despair.
THOMASQuit preaching, will you?
(sneers)It was just luck...
JOELuck... God's blessing... What'sthe difference? For us beggarsabandoned in these cold streets,that's the only hope - the trust inGod's will_
THOMASIf God really were there, Joe,there'd be no beggars, in the firstplace.
JOEWe all have our cross to bear_
10.
THOMASWell, tell me then, Joe - are allhuman souls equal?
JOEWhy, yes!
THOMASSo, all children born, should beequal?
JOECertainly.
THOMASThen why the hell are some born inbeggar families and some - in richones?! Huh? Why the hell is that,Joe? Are they not equal from thevery beginning? Why should some beborn in poverty and some inluxury?!
JOEIt will all be evened according tohow they lead their lives_
THOMASDon't give me that crap, Joe! Don'tgive me that crap! This world isunjust, okay? You've lived forseventy-eight years! Just acceptthis shitty truth, will you?!
Joe gets worried at Thomas' such raging cries. He wants toreply but starts intensively coughing, hence his speech isinterrupted.
Thomas grows concerned and grabs him.
THOMASJoe? What the hell? What's wrongwith you?
(feels his rags and hisskin are wet)
What the_ You've really been lyinghere in cold all day?! What thehell?!
(looks around at theother beggars)
Couldn't these bastards give youwarmer stuff?!
JOEI didn't_
(coughs)Ask...
11.
THOMASWhat the_
Thomas jumps to his feet and runs to the wooden building. Heslams on the door with his fists.
THOMASRonald, you bastard, open up! Joe'sfreezing to death! Open up, for thefuck's sake, you damn freak!
The door opens and RONALD - a 45-year-old street bandit witha single eye, scars, a cigar in his mouth, and raggedclothes - appears. His two henchmen of the same appearance -JACK and BILL - stand behind him. There's an INTENSIVELAUGHTER coming out of the SHELTER - the GANG is sitting atthe fire and drinking.
RONALDWhat ye're yapping at, chap?
THOMASCut the crap, you bastard! Joe'sfreezing out here. Let him in!
RONALDThree pounds per person, told yealready, haven't I?
THOMASHe's a blind old man_
RONALDDon't give a damn.
JACKPay or get lost, kid!
BILLYeah, we've no time for lousy bratslike ye_
THOMASHe's a damn feetless old manfreezing to death, you idiots!
Thomas swings a fist at Ronald's very face in attempt to hithim right in the jaw.
Ronald easily catches his fist in mid-air and clutches hisarm tightly so that Thomas SCREAMS in pain.
RONALDPicking fights again, chap? Neverlearn, do ye?
THOMASI really am going to kick your assthis time, you fucking bastard!
12.
RONALDWe'll have to teach you a lessonagain then, I guess.
Ronald HITS him hard right in the stomach. Thomas crouchesand falls to his feet. Ronald, Jack, Bill, and the wholegang gather round him and KICK and BEAT him.
When Thomas is already too bloodied and exhausted to evenmove, the gang gets off him and returns back into theshelter.
Before closing the door, Ronald glares back down at him.
RONALDThree pounds or no entrance. Rulesdon't change. I'll let ye get awaywith a warning this time, but thenext time it won't be so easy,brat.
JACKLeave em alone, Boss! That brat'sjust a bootless piece of garbage,like his late old man!
The laughing men and Ronald walk back into the shelter andshut the door behind.
Thomas sneers, blood trickling off the sides of his mouthand his nostrils. The other beggars are watching himdistressed, but nobody moves a finger - everyone fearsRonald and his gang.
Thomas crawls up to Joe's side.
Joe couldn't see anything due to blindness, but could hearall that has happened. When he hears the boy moan right nextto him, he takes out a certain GREEN BOX he's been hidingbehind himself amidst the TRASH SACKS. He opens it and handsit to Thomas. It is full of MEDICINE and BANDAGES.
JOETreat yourself.
Thomas eyes Joe, then grabs certain medicine, greases it onhis aching bruises and wounds, and bandages them carefully.
WHEN THOMAS FINISHES treating himself, he returns the box toJoe. Joe shuts it with a lock and hides it again.
Neither of them give a voice for a certain time. They arefallen into thoughts. Then Joe breaks the silence.
JOEI first met Henry right here in thestreets. Back then, I'd alreadylost both of my feet and been
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13.
JOE (cont'd)dumped here to starve. Henry hadlost his position due to thefactory going bankrupt, lost hiswife to a cholera, and feared hemight lose his son too. He carriedyou along and tried to scrap upsome pennies for your sake. Heraised you so you'd find a decentpath in your life and make use ofyourself. If he were to see you inyour current condition, kid, he'dbe utterly disappointed.
Thomas looks away, still silent.
JOEHe hoped at least his son would getto have a decent future_
THOMASHe really was hopeless then,imagining a son of a beggar couldbe anything but a beggar.
JOEKid, you've so much talent, yethere you are, picking senselessfights and spitting nonsense. Youdon't know when to cool your head,and when to raise your voice. Youdon't even know anything about thislife, yet you speak like you'veseen it all. You lecture aseventy-eight-year-old man who'sseen so much in these long yearsthat he's lost his sight and hisfeet were cut off. Yet... You couldlearn how to treat wounds from ablind old man, and learned it soproficiently you can easily do iteven if you're bloodily wounded. Doyou not think you're wasting somuch potential?
THOMASYou really are an annoying oldman...
JOEKid, you really do have to get outthere. See the world. Don't spendyour days here lying in garbage.Make use of yourself. Of youryouth. Of your life.
THOMASHow on earth?
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14.
THOMAS (cont'd)(chuckles)
I've not a penny. Travelling andstudying needs some greens, Joe.
Joe doesn't answer.
Thomas bitterly chuckles again. He doesn't turn to Joeanymore, since his neck still hurts from the earlierbeatings. He wraps himself up in his rags some more sinceit's freezing, and soon goes to sleep.
EXT. THE BEGGAR QUARTERS - DAY
The morning is cold. Thomas wakes up. He stretches and sitsup.
THOMASWell, I'm going to go scrap up somepennies, Joe_
He freezes once turns to Joe. Joe is lying motionless, hiseyes closed and his skin gone yellowish - he is dead.
Goose-bumps run down Thomas's skin.
THOMASJoe? Joe, wake up! Damn it, oldman, this is not funny!
Thomas shakes him violently. Then he quickly puts an ear tohis chest. There is no heartbeat.
Thomas is shocked - he guesses Joe truly is dead.
THOMAS(mutters)
Goodness... Oh no... No...(yells)
No!(tears come to his eyes)
Damn it! Damn it all! Joe...
At Thomas's yells, the neighbouring BEGGARS arrive and acommotion starts.
HUGH - a 48-year-old beggar man, war veteran with a singleleg and a cane he leans on - begins to take actions.
HUGHWe need to bury him. Follow me!
Some of the BEGGARS carry a large WOODEN BOARD from thedumps, using it as a stretcher. They put Joe's body on itand carry it off.
15.
EXT. BY THE LAKE, 'BEGGAR CEMETERY' - CONTINUOUS
The beggars carry Joe's body to a remote area near the LAKEclose by, where they start digging.
There are many such covered-up TRENCHES in this place amidstthe trees - the beggars use this spot to bury their dead.
EXT. BY THE LAKE, 'BEGGAR CEMETERY' - DAY (LATER)
Thomas is standing at Joe's grave, sadly staring at it.
Hugh walks up to him limping, leaning on his cane.
HUGHYou've been his closest friend,huh, Thomas?
THOMASOnly friend, I'd say.
HUGHHe did seem to like you and Henry alot. Your late old man was alwayshis favourite - the only one he'sever opened up with.
THOMASHe really was a good old fellow,our Joe. He always wanted the bestfor me... I guess. He alwaysadvised me well, as if I were hisown grandson. I've learned a lotfrom him.
HUGH(laughs)
Like, to not pick fights withstreet bandits?
THOMAS(chuckles)
Leave me alone, you bastard...
HUGHBut for real, Thomas... I dounderstand about us old fellowsrotting out here, but you are sofull of life, kid! Why don't youtry to put yourself to good use?
THOMASHow on earth? To be of good use,one needs education, Hugh.Education needs money. I've got nota penny.
16.
HUGHNah, kid, education is just one ofthe many routes you can take. Thereare a bunch of other ways. Like, inthis wartime - the military.
THOMASGo out on the battlefield and getmyself killed?
(spits)No, thank you.
HUGHDamn, you're putting it all in suchgrey colours, kid! I did work inthe military. You get to serve yourcountry in such a good way! We gotexcellent physical education,travelled somewhat, and had muchbetter food than those scraps youget in these streets. Not tomention a lot of fun we had, usyoung fellows, all of 'em youngladies swooning over us soldierboys and all! It is worth a shot,definitely.
THOMASYou seem to be putting it all inrosy colours, Hugh.
Thomas and Hugh look at Joe's grave. Then Thomas heaves asigh, casts the last glance at Joe's grave, and walks off.
Hugh watches Thomas from behind. He then takes a small pieceof paper out of his pocket, where there's written "ToJonathan Crowe; From Joe Hummings".
HUGH'S FLASHBACK:
EXT. THE BEGGAR QUARTERS - DAY - RAIN
(It is a day before the current events. Thomas is stillgone, apparently at Jane Diamond's place)
Joe, still alive, sits on the pavement as usual. Hugh sitsbeside him.
JOEHugh...
HUGHYes, old man?
JOECan I ask you a favour?
HUGHOh? What is it?
17.
JOEI know I might not hold on longnow, the way I am... But I'm trulyconcerned about Thomas' future. Youknow, he's such a talented youngman! Yet is rotting here amidst thetrash sacks. I don't even know howI can show my face to good oldHenry up in heavens, at this rate.He entrusted me with the kid'swell-being. He hoped he'd followsome decent path! I've long beenthinking about a solution. Ibelieve I might've found it, butdue to my limited abilities, Idon't think I can manage to executeit, as I am now. Please, when I amno more, deliver this letter ofmine, to Mr. Crowe. I guess he isbetter fit to take a good care ofThomas when I'm gone.
Joe stuffs the same piece of paper in Hugh's hands. Hughlooks at it: "To Jonathan Crowe; From Joe Hummings". He getsbewildered.
HUGHJonathan Crowe?! You don't mean thecurrent General of the Army?!
JOEYes, him.
(smiles)We used to be good friends onetime. I am certain he shouldremember me. He's been a good man,he wouldn't have forgotten me thateasily... Anyway, it is worth atry. Please, Hugh, you are the onlyone I can entrust this letter to.We are both war dogs, we canunderstand each other better thananyone. You are my only hope...
Hugh watches Joe thoughtfully for a while, and then staresat the letter.
BACK TO THE PRESENT:
EXT. BY THE LAKE, 'BEGGAR CEMETERY' - DAY
Hugh heaves a sigh, puts the letter back into his pocket,and walks off to his corner at a wall.
EXT. THE BEGGAR QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Hugh walks up to his place at a wall. He unwraps a certainsack he's been hiding. There is his old soldierly attireplaced, and medals of a lieutenant.
18.
He grabs the clothes and begins to put them on.
EXT. THE ARMED FORCES HEADQUARTERS - DAY
Hugh, dressed in his old lieutenant clothes, arrives at theArmed Forces Headquarters, at the gates.
There are two guards. Hugh walks up to the gates and wantsto enter. The guards stop him.
FIRST GUARDStop, sir. Please, identifyyourself.
HUGHI am Hugh Golding. I have served asa lieutenant for 25 years. Now I ama veteran.
SECOND GUARDWhat is your business here, Mr.Golding?
HUGHI need to see General Crowe.
SECOND GUARDOn what behalf?
HUGHI need to deliver him a letter.
Hugh shows them the piece of paper.
FIRST GUARDOh. In that case, you can hand itto us. We shall take care of it.
HUGHNo. I need to deliver it in hand.Let me through.
Hugh wants to enter, but the guards stop him again.
FIRST GUARDI am afraid we cannot do that, Mr.Golding. Unauthorized people cannotmeet General Crowe.
HUGHHmph! Unauthorized?! I've devotedmy life to the army! Only becauseI've lost a leg, I cannot evenenter the Quarters anymore?! Let methrough, I said!
SECOND GUARDCalm down, sir! We cannot let youthrough.
19.
HUGHI said I need to deliver thisletter. You cannot stop me!
Tension rises. Hugh breaks into a fight. The guards try tostop him and call the reinforcements.
FIRST GUARDCalling for help at the gates! Acitizen is out of control!
HUGHA citizen? Quit messing with me!You brats weren't even born when Iwas defending this country!
While they are fighting and reinforcements are coming, thegates open and a big car comes in - the car of the Generalof the Army. Hugh gathers General Crowe should be inside. Hegets off the guards and jumps before the car, making itstop.
HUGHGeneral Crowe, I know you're there!I am a former lieutenant, HughGolding, and I've got a letter toyou from Doctor Joe Hummings! Hepassed away today, dumped in thestreets, and this is his last will,addressed to you! I'm not going togive old Joe's will to anyone butyou, so you'd better come and takeit! You hear?
The guards arrive and apprehend him. He struggles to getfree.
HUGHLet me go, you bastards! I'm havinga talk here!
GUARDSSir, your further resistance willbe considered a violation of thelaw! You'd better surrender.
HUGHCut the crap, brats! Is that any way to talk to a formerlieutenant?!
While they are fighting, the window of the car lowers andJONATHAN CROWE's hand stretches out. The hand motions Hughto approach him.
JONATHAN CROWE (O.S.)Mr. Golding, is it? Please, hand methe letter!
20.
While the guards are stopped by General Crowe's escorts,Hugh walks up to the back of the car and hands the letter toJONATHAN CROWE sitting inside - a 55-year-old man withcut-marks on his face.
General Crowe takes the letter and glances at it. "ToJonathan Crowe; From Joe Hummings". He recognizes thehandwriting. He opens the door of the car.
JONATHAN CROWEIt is truly Dr. Hummings'handwriting. I would like you tofollow me to my office, Mr.Golding, if possible.
HUGHOh... As you wish, General.
Hugh sits into the car. The escorts and the car enter thegates. The guards watch them from behind.
INT. THE ARMED FORCES' HEADQUARTERS, GENERAL CROWE'SWORKING-ROOM - DAY
Jonathan Crowe and Hugh enter. Jonathan walks up to hisdesk, and points Hugh on one of the chairs.
JONATHAN CROWEPlease take a seat, Mr. Golding.
HUGHThank you.
Hugh takes a seat.
JONATHAN CROWECan you tell me more about JoeHummings' whereabouts? I've beensearching for him since ages, but Iwas not able to find a single clue.Now, your dropping by this place insuch a sudden, with this letter andinformation that he's passed awaytoday... It's been very shocking tome. Even now, I find quitedifficult to put up with it.
HUGHHe's been a beggar in the streetsfor years. He had slowly beenlosing his sight, and some yearsago, lost it completely. We, fellowbeggars, had been keeping him andhelping him as we could. There aremany other war veterans in thestreets, like us. No wonder,though...
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21.
HUGH (cont'd)(bitterly smiles)
Even here, at Armed ForcesHeadquarters, we are not welcome,even if one time we were theimportant part of the army, guidingthem towards victory. People seemto forget one's good deeds way toofast.
Jonathan heaves a sigh full of bitterness at these words. Hegoes on with the subject.
JONATHAN CROWESo, you say this letter to me, isJoe's last will?
HUGHYes. That is how he told me. Hewanted it to be delivered straightin your hands. I did as I wasasked.
JONATHAN CROWEI truly thank you for this, Mr.Golding. Thank you immensely,and... I deeply apologize, for youand Dr. Hummings, and all the otherwar veterans whom you've mentionedto be out there, to have been thusneglected. These last years, eversince I became the General of theArmy, I've been trying as hard as Icould to change the way thiscurrent system works, butunfortunately, one man cannot do asmuch as is required when his idealsare not widely shared.
HUGHI understand.
General Crowe opens the letter and runs through the lines.His hands begin to tremble from sorrow as he reads.
JOE (V.O.) (THE LETTER)To Jonathan Crowe,Greetings, old friend. This is JoeHummings. You might be wonderingwhere I've been for all theseyears, not contacting you... Aftermy trauma and retirement, I wasdumped in the streets. I decided tokeep it low. You know, I did notwant to bother you with my affairs,considering you're leading a toughlife out there on the frontlines...However, for this one issue, I've
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22.
JOE (V.O.) (THE LETTER) (cont'd)decided I had to contact you andask you a little favour, after all.Jonathan, my friend, I have alittle kid I've been looking afterin these streets - Thomas Lawson,my late good friend Henry's onlyson. He asked me to keep watch overhim after he passed away. Little bylittle, I've got attached to theboy. He is a very good child, butloves to pick fights every now andthen. A hothead, you know... Iregard him as my own grandson - afamily I've never got to have. So Idon't want him to live out his lifedumped in the streets when I seehe's such a talented young man,particularly in medicine, judgingby the skills he's picked up fromme.I am badly ill, and have even begunto slowly lose my sight. I don'tthink I'll last long, so I'vedecided to ask you for help. I'dwant you to keep watch over Thomasfor me. You know, enlist him in thearmy and see to it that he puts histalents to good use. That, myfriend, would be the biggestblessing for my soul.Thank you for everything, Jonathan.Sorry for putting this burden onyou, but I had no other option. Iam eternally grateful, and trulyblessed to have had a friend likeyou.Sincerely yours,Joe Hummings
General Crowe watches the letter for a while, even thoughhe's long finished reading. He's fallen into thoughts. Then,he picks up the phone and orders.
JONATHAN CROWECall Mr. Jim Hunter to my office!
Soon, Officer JIM HUNTER - a man in his thirties - entersand salutes him.
JIM HUNTERGeneral Crowe, Sir!
JONATHAN CROWEMr. Hunter, I would need to assignyou a task of finding a certainperson for me. You must bring himhere at any cost.
23.
JIM HUNTERYes Sir!
JONATHAN CROWEAs for you, Mr. Golding,
(turns to Hugh)I would like you to stay here for awhile. I gather, you too areacquainted with Thomas Lawsonmentioned in the letter?
HUGHThe letter is about Thomas?!
JONATHAN CROWEIndeed. So you know him. I wouldlike you to offer Mr. Hunterassistance in finding that boy forme. Please give him as muchinformation about the boy as youcan. Then, I'd like you to remainhere until he arrives, so we woulddiscuss the details further. Soundsagreeable?
HUGHOh... Yes, General.
JONATHAN CROWEPerfect. Well then, Mr. Hunter, I'mcounting on you.
MR. HUNTER(salutes again)
Yes Sir!
EXT. THE STREET - DAY
Thomas is walking on, hands in his pockets. He walks up tocertain passers-by and asks for money.
THOMASHey, can you please spare a dime?Please, ma'am, I'm a homeless youngboy!Please, sir, can you spare a dime?I'm starving!
A MANI've got nothing to give you, chap.Beat it.
A WOMANSorry, kid, I can't help you!
People either politely refuse him or walk away without aword. Some might indeed spare a dime and put a single coinin his hands.
24.
In the end, Thomas turns to the left and follows a narrowstreet. He eyes his earnings - three coins.
THOMASDamn, "I've got nothing to giveyou", and the next thing you lookthey have bags costing 200 poundsand some even walk a pure-bred dogor feed a giant cat! Curse it...Even animals live better than usbeggars! And they tell me I shouldgo to the army to defend thiscareless lot?
(spits)No, thank you!
A military car shows up on the narrow street. Thomas eyes itwith scorn.
THOMASWhat the hell have they lost outhere?
(spits again)Weirdos...
The car pulls up at his side. The doors open and threesoldier boys come out, approaching him. They are SergeantJOACHIM WHITE - a 23-year-old black young man, SergeantDANIEL HUGHES - a 24-year-old blond young man, and StaffSergeant HARRY JAMES - a 27-year-old black-to-whitemixed-race young man. Now Thomas gets a bad feeling.
THOMASWhat the_
HARRY JAMESAre you Thomas Lawson?
THOMASYes_ Wait, what? The hell do youwant_
The soldiers grab him and take him to the car.
THOMASWhat the hell_ Cut the crap, youbastards!
DANIEL HUGHESFollow us peacefully. We've gotorders to deliver you to General'squarters.
THOMASWha_ Quit messing with me, forfuck's sake! What General'squarters?! I've got no businesswith you army lot!
25.
JOACHIM WHITEJust shut up and follow us, kid!
Thomas struggles as hard as he can, but they subdue him, puthandcuffs on him, and shove him into the car amidst eachother.
INT. THE CAR - CONTINUOUS
Harry James sits at the front of the car, the other two sitat the back on each side of Thomas. There is a FourthSoldier at the driver's seat. Thomas is still yelling.
THOMASLet me go, you fuckers!
The car drives off.
INT.THE ARMED FORCES' HEADQUARTERS, GENERAL CROWE'SWORKING-ROOM - DAY
Hugh is sitting calmly on the chair in a corner, eyeing theoffice. General Crowe is reviewing late Joe Hummings' andHugh Golding's old documents.
HEAR a knock on the door.
JONATHAN CROWECome in!
Jim Hunter enters, salutes him, and declares.
JIM HUNTERGeneral Crowe, Sir! The boy hasbeen found. Our sergeants havebrought him successfully.
JONATHAN CROWEGood job. Bring him here.
Jim exits again.
After a few minutes, he returns, followed by Harry James andThomas Lawson.
Jim Hunter salutes the general again and so does HarryJames, while Thomas stands there casually, hands in hispockets, as if he's still in the streets. He seemsdiscontented.
JONATHAN CROWEThank you, Mr. Hunter. You two canleave us.
JIM HUNTERYes Sir!
Jim Hunter and Harry James salute Jonathan Crowe and walkout of the room.
26.
Jonathan, Thomas, and Hugh remain alone.
THOMASWhat the hell is going on here_
(notices Hugh)Hugh?! Damn... What the hell isgoing on here, for real?!
Jonathan eyes Thomas with a stern gaze.
JONATHAN CROWEWelcome, Mr. Lawson. It is I whohas called for you. I am sorry ifthey have treated you roughly, butsince I have an urgent businesswith you, we had no other option.
THOMASWhat the_
HUGHListen carefully to the general,Thomas. This concerns your future.
THOMASEh?!
JONATHAN CROWEPlease take a seat, Mr. Lawson. Ishall explain the details to you.
Thomas eyes them both with bewilderment. Then he frowns andtakes a seat on a chair General Crowe has pointed him on.
Jonathan Crowe studies him carefully for a while, and thenasks.
JONATHAN CROWEHow old are you, Mr. Lawson?
THOMASSixteen.
JONATHAN CROWE(to himself)
A little too young for the army...But can be done.
(to Thomas)So, this is the situation, Mr.Lawson: as Mr. Golding here hastold me, Dr. Joe Hummings has beenyour friend, and today, he haspassed away.
THOMASYeah, that's true. But what doesthat have to do with my gettingshoved in here?
27.
JONATHAN CROWE(strictly)
Let me clarify some rules to youbefore I go on, Mr. Lawson: this ismy office. I am General of theArmy, hence you are to address meas 'General', or 'Sir', and you arenot to interrupt my speech, or giveyour comments until asked. Am Iclear?
Thomas glares at him with apparent discontent. When GeneralCrowe's own stern gaze intensifies, Thomas finally decidesto yield and averts his eyes from him, murmuring withreluctance.
THOMASI am sorry, Sir.
JONATHAN CROWEGood. So you attest to Mr.Golding's words. That makes ourtalk easier. Before he would pass,Dr. Hummings wrote his last will,which was addressed to me, sincethe two of us have been goodfriends_
THOMASOh?
(with irony)So that is why he was dumped in thestreets after the retirement?
Jonathan does not give a word, but his glare freezes Thomas.Hugh has the same accuzing gaze.
THOMASI am sorry. Please continue... Sir.
JONATHAN CROWEIn the letter, Dr. Hummings talksall about you. He says you are atalented young man. He wants me totake you under my wing. We usuallydo not accept sixteen-year-olds,more so beggars, especially suchill-mannered youngsters, in thearmy. But, because of my immenserespect to late Dr. Hummings, andmy eternal debt to him, I shallfulfill his last wish and enlistyou. However, you are to prove methat you are indeed worthy of thepraise he has given you... And sofar you're not doing a good job atit. Am I clear?
28.
THOMASYes... Sir.
JONATHAN CROWEGood. I shall put you in the listof new recruits and you willundergo the Basic Combat Training.You will be under my son'ssupervision, so that I may know ofyour progress. The training willstart in a month from today.
THOMASAlright... I mean yes, Sir.
JONATHAN CROWEVery well, then. From now on, yourprimal values should be discipline,order, obedience to your superiors,and perseverance, or else you willdrop out, and I will no longer beable to help you. Keep that in mind- I might manage to open up thedoor for you, but from then on,you'll be on your own. All clear?
THOMAS(nods)
Yes Sir.
JONATHAN CROWEAs for you, Mr. Golding,
(turns to Hugh)I believe I can find a place foryou too, if you are willing torejoin us in the service.
HUGHRejoin the army? How's thatpossible? I mean, with mycondition?
JONATHAN CROWE(smiles)
Places can be found for anyone... Iam certain we may find you a jobthrough our newest veterans'employment services.
HUGHAh, I am immensely grateful,General!
JONATHAN CROWEYou're welcome. Also, I would liketo give a proper burial to late Dr.Joe Hummings in our militarycemetery. I would ask for yourhelp, if possible.
29.
HUGHAh, sure! I shall help you with allI can, General. I am certain Dr.Hummings would appreciate it - hewill be able to rest in peace...
THOMAS(with irony)
Yeah, of course, take care of thecorpse now, the dead man wouldsurely love it_
HUGHThomas!
Thomas shuts his mouth, for he can well see General Croweglaring at him with apparent wrath he perfectly subdues.Hugh is no less upset.
THOMASI am sorry, Sir, Hugh.
HUGHI too, apologize, General, for hisill manners.
(sighs)One doesn't get to learn a lotabout discipline in the streets.
JONATHAN CROWEI figure. It is fine, though, he'lllearn plenty of it in the army, orelse he's gonna have it the hardway.
(glares at Thomas. Thenturns back to Hugh)
Well then, I guess we havediscussed all the necessary issues.You are free, gentlemen.
Hugh salutes General Crowe and he and Thomas walk out.
INT. THE ARMED FORCES' HEADQUARTERS, CORRIDORS - CONTINUOUS
The Sergeants Joachim White, Harry James, and Daniel Hughesare standing outside in the corridor, together with someother soldiers.
Hugh and Thomas walk out of the general's office.
The soldiers are whispering among each other, watching thetwo.
HARRY JAMESThey say this guy's been entrustedto General Crowe by Dr. JoeHummings.
30.
DANIEL HUGHESJoe Hummings? That legendarywartime doctor?!
JOACHIM WHITEYou gotta be kidding!
HARRY JAMESNo, I'm for real.
DANIEL HUGHESIsn't Dr. Hummings the one thatGeneral's been searching for years?
JOACHIM WHITEYeah, I too have heard Dr. Hummingssaved him from a fatal injury once,and General's been feeling indebtedever since.
DANIEL HUGHESYeah, such a hero, and he's beentaking care of such a tramp?
(eyes Thomas from aside)What a shame...
HARRY JAMESI know, right.
Thomas hears their talks. He sneers and turns to Hugh.
THOMASWhat are they yapping about? Theysay Joe's been a war hero.
HUGHWell, he has. Joe Hummings was awell-known wartime doctor. He wassaid to have saved the mostsoldiers on the frontlines. But Ihad no idea it included even theGeneral of the Army.
(chuckles)That old man was truly something,our Joe... And he taught his craftto no one but you.
THOMASWow, I had no idea he's been thatimportant in the army... But thataside, this whole military issuewas your doing, wasn't it? Out withit! I know it was!
HUGH(laughs)
Maybe? But it was Joe's initiative.He handed me that letter yesterday,
(MORE)
31.
HUGH (cont'd)and told me to give it to theaddressee when he was no more. Heapparently felt his final day wasapproaching... I too, did as I wastold.
THOMASYou really are an annoying oldbastard, Hugh...
HUGH(laughs)
Well, aren't you going to acceptthe offer? What else is there foryou?
THOMASI'm not going to accept it becauseyou told me to or because that oldgeneral's ordered... I'll just doit of my own free will. I've kindamade up my mind.
Thomas shrugs and looks away with a frown, hands in hispockets. Hugh laughs at his attitude. Then, a smile covershis face.
HUGH (V.O.) (THOUGHTS)One thing I know, though - both Joeand good old Henry can finally restin peace now. This kid's on thedecent path at last...
1 MONTH LATER:
INT. BASIC COMBAT TRAINING CAMP - DAY
There are many new RECRUITS of 18 years, or at least 17, inthe camp. Among them is Thomas, more muscled and well-fed,apparently having done excessive training this past monthjust to be ready for the Boot Camp.
The RECRUITS wear uniforms and have their hair cut. Theyhave already passed the Reception Battalion and are waitingfor the real Boot Camp to begin.
The RECRUITS have grouped around 3 DRILL SERGEANTS: HarryJames, whom Thomas has seen a month before; ROGER HERRING -a 31-year-old black muscled man; and FYNN KENT - a29-year-old blond blue-eyed man of stern demeanour.
There is also Lieutenant ELIJAH CROWE - a 28-year-old tallyoung man, with blond hair and blue eyes. He looksbenevolent and mild at heart. His military coat is hung onhis shoulders, adorned with a lieutenant medal. Thomaseasily figures he should be General Crowe's son.
32.
Drill Sergeant Roger Herring does the main talking. Everyonelistens.
ROGER HERRINGI am Roger Herring, and I am yourSenior Drill Sergeant. I shall beassisted by Drill Sergeant HarryJames and Drill Sergeant Fynn Kent.
(points on the two)This training will be supervised byLieutenant Elijah Crowe,
(points on him)who will evaluate all of thesuccessful recruits at the end ofthe training. The ones that appealto him might be recruited to hispersonal division and be sent tothe battlefields shortly after theAdvanced Training in his camp. Isall clear?
RECRUITS (INCLUDING THOMAS)Yes Sir!
ROGER HERRINGI compliment you all on passing theCombat Readiness tests. But thereal deal begins now. We shall put every effort in you,for you to develop into worthysoldiers our country can be proudof.Do not expect the Combat Trainingto be easy. You will get tired, youwill get stressed, you might be onthe verge of giving up onyourselves, but be sure - we won'tgive up on you! Each of you canbecome a glorious soldier servingthis country, if you instilldiscipline and courage. If doubts and questions arise,always refer to the army values -Loyalty, Duty, Respect, SelflessService, Honour, Integrity, andPersonal Courage. All clear?
RECRUITS (INCLUDING THOMAS)Yes Sir!
EXT. BASIC COMBAT TRAINING CAMP - DAY
The training begins.
Thomas and the other recruits are being trained in allaspects - MARCHING, DRILL, RAPPELL, etc., and learn THEORIESas well. They learn FIRST-AID too.
33.
Thomas shows especially good talents during FIRST-AIDTRAINING - he always finishes faster than others and does itall perfectly, so that even the Drill Sergeants arestupefied.
However, during other exercises, Thomas often picks fightsand has to do more push-ups than expected, punished by thesergeants.
ROGER HERRINGLawson! Drop down and give metwenty!
THOMAS(drops down. Mutters)
Tch, what a slave-driver... I didnothing wrong_
ROGER HERRINGYou'll do thirty sit-ups next, foryour loud mouth!
Thomas hushes up, clearly discontented.
INT. BOOT CAMP CHOW HALL - DAY
Thomas and the recruits are in a line before they get to theChow Hall.
Even while eating, the orders from Drill Sergeants keeppiling on. Even so, Thomas feels he's in paradise - he hasnever had such nutricious food for his entire life as abeggar back in the streets.
INT. DORMITORY - NIGHT
Thomas has 3 roommates: DARRELL LEE - a 19-year-old Chineseguy; JEREMIAH POWER - an 18-year-old black guy; and ERNESTORAMIREZ - a Mexican guy of 17 years.
There are 2 two-storey BEDS.
Thomas is lying on the BOTTOM bed, while Darrell is ABOVEhim.
ON THE OTHER BED, there's Ernesto lying on the BOTTOM part,and Jeremiah ABOVE him.
DARRELL LEEOkay, you all, let's get to knoweach other. I'll go first. I'm Darrell Lee, 19, Chinese byancestry. I've enlisted in the armyto serve my country and eventuallybecome a ranked officer.
THOMASNice to meet you, Lee.
34.
ERNESTO RAMIREZYeah. Fancy ambition you got there!
JEREMIAH POWERI know, right! But ranked officeris still humble - aim higher, man,a general!
DARRELL LEE(chuckles)
Come on, I'll just stay down toearth.
JEREMIAH POWERNo, for real, man, whatever ya do,ya need to aim to the top! That'show my old man says, and when myold man says it, it's a thing. Okay, anyway, fellas, I guess it ismy turn. I am Jeremiah Power, 18,and just as I said - I aim to thetop: gonna be a general, mark myword!
ERNESTO RAMIREZWoah!
(laughs)Good luck with that, bro. Well, I'll go next, I guess. I amErnesto Ramirez, Mexican, 17, butturning 18 this year so it doesn'tcount... Anyway, I just want toprotect this country and be aworthy soldier everyone can beproud of.
JEREMIAH POWERWoow, that's a goal, man! I likeit!
DARRELL LEEYeah, me too. You have my support,Ramirez.
THOMASYeah, that sounds like a nice goal.
JEREMIAH POWERSo what about ya, fella?
(to Thomas)Lawson, I recall?
(laughs)Damn, man, they be yellin' all thetime, those Drill Sergeants, but yastill received the most of 'em,didn't ya?
35.
THOMAS(chuckles)
Ugh, shut up, Power... Yeah, myname's Thomas Lawson. I'm 16_
ERNESTO RAMIREZ16?!
JEREMIAH POWERNo kiddin', man?
DARRELL LEEHow did they let you in?
THOMASWell, it's complicated... My oldfriend's blessing, I guess. To youthis camp might look like anall-out hell, but to me, it isn'tall that horrific, even if I amindeed stressed-out. I lived in thestreets before I'd come here, sothe meals they give here, theclothes, everything... It seemsheaven compared to what I've beenacquainted with. I am learning athing every day and, it seems likeI've begun to see the world inother colours, too.
JEREMIAH POWERWoah, I like ya, man! Ya preachin'so good!
DARRELL LEEI know, right. He seems on a wholeanother level.
(to Thomas)So, Lawson, what's your dream?
THOMASDream?
(shrugs)Currently, I'm kind of lost. Somany things have happened, and eachday is like a new revelation... Ireally am confused. My wholeworld's been turned upside down.The only thing I can hope for, Iguess, is to find my true selfeventually... Hopefully after Igraduate from this camp.
ERNESTO RAMIREZWow, that's really deep, bro.
36.
JEREMIAH POWERI'm tellin' ya, this guy will acethe top!
(to Thomas)Hey, Lawson, fella, whatever ya mayneed, ya can address me at anytime! I'm all yours, bro!
DARRELL LEEYeah, we're all in for each otherhere. You all can count on me, too.
ERNESTO RAMIREZI'm in, bros!
THOMAS(chuckles)
Thanks, guys. Likewise.
EXT. BASIC COMBAT TRAINING CAMP - DAY
Thomas and his friends pull through the obstacles together.
However, due to his temper, Thomas continues to get thewhole group of recruits in trouble.
HARRY JAMESLawson, drop down and give meforty!
THOMASForty?! My foot! I did exactly as Iwas told!
HARRY JAMESAlright. You all,
(to the group)To a certain someone's loud mouth,
(glares at Thomas)You all drop down and give mehundred!
The recruits are astonished, but do as they are told.Apparently, they all curse Thomas in their thoughts, whilehis 3 friends - Darrell, Jeremiah, and Ernesto - are notthat much angry, rather disappointed.
DURING THE 3RD WEEK, the recruits finally get to startSHOOTING exercises. Thomas uses a rifle very well.
Elijah Crowe, who is always somewhere nearby, contemplatesThomas with a smile.
Gradually, Thomas stops messing with the Drill Sergeants,talking back, etc. His expression too, changes - it does notbear hatred and disgust anymore, rather determination andwillpower.
10 WEEKS LATER:
37.
EXT. BASIC COMBAT TRAINING CAMP - DAY
The families of the recruits visit the camp. Theycongratulate their sons who have graduated.
Thomas is among those successful candidates. Hugh hasvisited him on the occasion.
Thomas has changed - he is taller, more muscled, and hisoverall expression too, has turned into milder, calmer, andkinder one.
HUGHThomas, goodness! Congratulations,boy! I admit I was worried aboutyou.
THOMAS(laughs)
What the hell, Hugh? I told you Iwas gonna make it. You doubted mycapabilities?
HUGHNothing like it, but you know...How you've been, though? Was itrough?
THOMASRough? For God's sake, Hugh, that'sa mild notion - it was hell! Youknow what hell is? I thought I knewback when I was a beggar, but turnsout that was just a kindergarten!Tch, curse it all...
HUGHOh?
(smiles)You've changed.
THOMASHuh? What do you mean?
HUGHThe Thomas I knew, would give it agood amount of curse, and probablyspit, too... But he'd never mentiona word such as "God", even if justas a manner of speech.
THOMASOh?
(smiles for himself)Good old Joe would, though...
(to Hugh)You know, Hugh, here in the BootCamp, we had first-aid training,
(MORE)
38.
THOMAS (cont'd)too. Lieutenant Crowe had beenobserving us from aside during thewhole past 10 weeks. When thefirst-aid training finished, heonce called me aside. What he toldme, has been constantly on my mindever since. I guess I'll acceptthat offer, after all.
HUGHWhat_ Lieutenant Crowe has givenyou an offer?!
THOMASHe asked me to take AdvancedTraining as a Combat Medic.
THOMAS'S FLASHBACK:
EXT. BASIC COMBAT TRAINING CAMP - DAY
The training in the field has just finished. Thomas andElijah Crowe are standing alone having a private talk.
Thomas is standing in position. Elijah chuckles.
ELIJAH CROWEEase up, Lawson, it's just a smalltalk.
THOMAS(relaxes)
Yes Sir.
ELIJAH CROWEAs you might be aware, I've beenconstantly watching your training,as per my father's request.
THOMASYes, Sir.
ELIJAH CROWEHe informed me of the contents ofDr. Hummings' letter. Now I fullyrealise what late Dr. Hummingsmeant - you indeed have medicalskills.So here's my suggestion, kid -after you finish the Basic CombatTraining, go straight in for CombatMedic Training. Your skills will beessential out on the battlefield.The way you do it so fast andefficiently... That's innate, noone will top that. Don't waste thatgift. Give it a thought. I'd be
(MORE)
39.
ELIJAH CROWE (cont'd)happy to welcome you in mydivision, but if you enter as amedic, it'll be even better.
Thomas remains bewildered and shocked.
BACK TO THE PRESENT:
EXT. BASIC COMBAT TRAINING CAMP - DAY
THOMAS(to Hugh)
Considering some of my friends werealready recruited by LieutenantCrowe to join his division, I guessI'll accept that offer and supportthem as a medic.
HUGHWow...
(smiles)Yes, you've indeed changed a lot,Thomas. Changed for the better...I'm so proud of you, kid.
THOMAS(blushes and looks away)
Cut the crap, old man...
THOMAS (V.O.) (THOUGHTS)(looks at Hugh's leg)
This is also for you, Hugh, and forJoe... For all those soldiers outthere... And, for those fatherswhose families are waiting at home.
(looks up at the sky)I'll repay you this way, JaneDiamond... For back then.
3 YEARS LATER:
EXT. THE BATTLEFIELD - DAY
SOLDIERS are firing at each other. It is a heavy battle.
Some soldiers motion at each other to approach the enemyside, some go on crawling up. Soldiers get shot down quite alot.
The group of MEDICS is active on the battlefield. Among themis Thomas (19-year-old, much taller and more muscled), fullyequipped with medical equipment as well as arms.
GARRY RUTH - a 24-year-old black-haired green-eyed soldier -gets wounded. The medics instantly come up to his side.Thomas begins the treatment. Some other soldiers defendthem.
40.
THOMAS(to medics)
Give me a hand, guys!(to Garry)
Okay, mate, I got you! Don't worry.
Garry heavily breathes. His wound is deep, but Thomasperforms the medical aid so fast and efficiently that eventhe other medics are amazed.
Thomas gets done and the medics move along to the nextwounded.
Some medics whisper among each other. They are NOAH SHETNER- a 22-year-old Jewish guy, ROBERT MARLOWE - a 28-year-oldblond curly guy, and TIMOTHY BROWN - a 25-year-oldblack-to-white mixed-race guy.
NOAH SHETNER(stares at Thomas)Damn, this guy's a beast!
TIMOTHY BROWNAnd to think he's the youngest...
SOLDIERS are getting wounded one after another.
Thomas and his medical group operate fast and move on. TheSHOOTING goes on.
INT. BATTLE CAMP - NIGHT
The MEDICS are actively treating the WOUNDED.
Lieutenant Crowe and 2 other RANKED OFFICERS are talking ina faraway corner.
Thomas runs around the stretchers together with the othermedics and provides full support.
THOMASThis one needs blood transfusion!Quick, quick!
NOAH SHETNERComing!
ROBERT MARLOWEAid me out here! This one's got ahand torn!
TIMOTHY BROWNI got my hands full here! AskJackson, he's just finished!
The medics are moving around hastily.
Garry Ruth, who's been treated right on the field earlier byThomas, is stabilized now. His wound is bandaged and he's
41.
lying on a stretcher to get some rest. He eyes Thomas who isworking next to him.
GARRY RUTHThank you, Doc, for before...
THOMASThat's my job, mate, don't mentionit.
Thomas turns back to his patient Jeremiah Power, now 21, andperforms blood transfusion with the help of some othermedics. Garry watches him.
INT. BATTLE CAMP - NIGHT (LATER)
When all the wounded are treated, Lieutenant Crowe walks upto Thomas.
ELIJAH CROWEHey, Lawson, I need your help.
THOMAS(salutes him)
Yes, Lieutenant, Sir! What is it?
ELIJAH CROWEFollow me.
ELIJAH LEADS HIM AWAY INTO A DIFFERENT CORNER, where anenemy soldier - KNUT BERGER, a 28-year-old blond blue-eyedman - is lying, wounded heavily. He has an emblem of a Majoron his uniform.
Thomas' group of MEDICS has been called in too. There arealso the other 2 RANKED OFFICERS standing nearby.
ELIJAH CROWEThat's a major of the enemy army.Since you medics have finished upwith our soldiers, we would likeyou to treat him as well.
Thomas carefully observes Knut, who watches him back. ThenThomas looks at his medic comrades.
THOMASOkay guys, help me up!
The medics begin to treat the wounded.
Thomas works as hard as he can. Knut doesn't take his eyesoff him.
As Thomas is treating him, Knut's wound hurts and hegrimaces in pain. Thomas notices it.
42.
THOMASI'll finish up soon, friend. I'msorry, but you'll need to bear withit for a bit. No worries, I'll getyou back on your feet, I promise.
Thomas zealously continues working. The other medics helphim.
Noah Shetner, who's been with him all the time, murmurs.
NOAH SHETNERWhy're you wasting your breath?He's an enemy, I doubt he knows ourlanguage.
THOMASWhen you want to help people, youdon't need no language - it'll allbe written on your face.
The medics can't help but chuckle at Thomas' such half-joke.Knut instead continues observing them with attention.
THOMAS FINISHES stitching up his wound and Knut lets out asigh of relief.
Knut suddenly GRABS Thomas' hand. Elijah Crowe and theranked officers instantly place hands on their weapons,while the medics start in fright.
Thomas does not move or show fear - he instead establishesdirect eye-contact with Knut.
Knut watches him with all-seriousness and nods his head.Thomas guesses it's a sign of gratitude, and smiles.
THOMASNo problem, friend. Enemies or not,my job, as a doctor, is to savelives. I'll help out anyone whoneeds my aid.
Knut returns a very faint smile and lets go of his hand.
Thomas and the medics stand up. Thomas waves a hand at Knut.He and the medics walk out.
EXT. THE BATTLEFIELD - DAY
The heavy battle continues. SOLDIERS are SHOOTING eachother. MEDICAL UNITS are moving around the battlefield totreat the WOUNDED.
Thomas works as zealously as always.
Darrell Lee (22-year-old) and Ernesto Ramirez (20-year-old)are fighting alongside Garry Ruth, shooting the enemies.Garry seems to have recovered - he is quite energetic.
43.
Garry's friend, BILL HAWKINS - a 23-year-old black-hairedguy - YELLS and falls, wounded in chest.
GARRY RUTHBill!
Garry SHOOTS at the ENEMIES, grabs Bill and hides behind aTRENCH.
GARRY RUTHHang on, Bill! Docs are going to behere soon!
Bill heavily breathes.
The MEDICAL UNIT arrives. Thomas is leading them.
Thomas kneels beside Bill and unwraps his vest. Bill's leftchest is soaked in blood. He MOANS. Thomas is shocked.
NOAH SHETNERGoodness, it's nearly at the heart_
Thomas grabs Noah's arm and shakes his head, giving him asign to hush. Thomas then turns to Bill.
THOMASNo worries, mate! We got you.
GARRY RUTHDocs, you have to save him!
Thomas just nods and begins the treatment.
Garry stays with them to protect them if need be. He isworried about Bill, his friend. He CLUTCHES Bill's hand.
GARRY RUTHCome on, Bill! You can make it,buddy!
Thomas tries his hardest to stabilize the wound, but Bill'sskin turns yellower.
The medics exchange grim gazes, while Thomas perseveres.
BILL HAWKINSLeave me...
GARRY RUTHWhat? That ain't happening, buddy!Docs are going to save you, you'llsee!
BILL HAWKINSIt's no use...
44.
GARRY RUTHStop talking nonsense! Docs knowbetter...
Bill smiles once, wheezes, and closes eyes. Thomas getschills, but perseveres.
THOMASNo, no, no... Come back! Wait, I'mgoing to_
NOAH SHETNER(grimly)
Mate, it's no use. He's already_
THOMASNo! It's not over! I can still_
TIMOTHY BROWNLawson...
THOMASNo!
Garry turns pale.
Thomas wants to continue trying, but the medics stop him -they can well see there's no use since Bill's already dead.
GARRY RUTHHey... Hey, it can't be true! Hecan still be saved, right? Tell mehe can!
NOAH SHETNERThe wound was deadly. It's over.
GARRY RUTHWha_ You can't be serious!
(yells)He was my friend since school! Thiscan't be happening! You gotta treathim!
TIMOTHY BROWNThere ain't nothing we can do,mate. He's dead. This is war. Nomatter how hard we may try, suchthings happen.
ROBERT MARLOWEYeah, I've seen a lot in my time -it's six years since I'm on thefrontlines. We are medics, notmiracle-workers. No matter what wedo, there will be people who can'tbe saved.
45.
Garry yells in agony and bursts into tears on dead Bill'scorpse.
Thomas is no less agonized.
THOMASNo! It can't be happening! I shouldhave saved him! I should have...Why didn't I come here sooner?!
ROBERT MARLOWEChill, Lawson. This boy was alreadybeyond salvation.
THOMAS(in tears)
No!
NOAH SHETNER(sighs)
I guess it's the first ever patienthe's lost?
TIMOTHY BROWNI figure. I remember how I wept atmy first time. Poor kid...
INT. BATTLE CAMP - NIGHT
The medics are running around as always.
Medic ORLANDO JACKSON - a 24-year-old black guy - istreating Garry Ruth, who's been wounded in an arm.
Garry looks grim - he's still grieving about his lost friendBill Hawkins. He grimly watches Thomas who's running aroundthe stretchers trying to save everyone he can, without muchwords. It is evident Thomas too, still laments thefirst-ever loss of a patient. It has hit his nerves hard.
THOMAS AND THE MEDICS FINISH treating all the wounded.Orlando Jackson too, has just finished bandaging Garry'sarm.
ORLANDO JACKSONWell, boys, I guess that's it fortoday.
THOMAS(sullen)
No, it's not.
NOAH SHETNERHuh? What do you mean?
THOMASI've got one patient left.
46.
NOAH SHETNEROne patient_ Who do you mean?
THOMASI'll do it alone. One person willsuffise. You guys stay here.
The medics and Garry are shocked.
THOMAS WALKS OFF TO A DISTANT CORNER, into the little roomin the tent where Knut Berger is lying.
ORLANDO JACKSONWait... He's going to treat theenemy?!
NOAH SHETNERI don't understand... That man'scondition has been stabilized evenyesterday! Why would he want totreat him further? I know the lawto treat all the wounded andeverything, but... He's an enemy!He doesn't need as much attentionas our boys.
TIMOTHY BROWNLeave him alone, Shetner. Thatkid's had it hard... Today's beenhis first loss. He wants to make"amends". Let him do as he pleases.It's not like that enemy major'sgetting away anyway.
NOAH SHETNERYeah, you're right...
The medics watch Thomas with pity.
Garry's eyes show fury: he is not satisfied that Thomas isgoing to treat the enemy major - the leader of those whohave killed Bill Hawkins.
INT. BATTLE CAMP, KNUT BERGER'S CORNER - NIGHT
Knut Berger is lying in a corner, withstanding apparent painwith pride and strong will.
Lieutenant Crowe and the 2 RANKED OFFICERS are in the roomas well.
Thomas ENTERS and walks towards Knut with his medicalequipment ready.
ELIJAH CROWELawson? What are you doing here_Wait, what are you up to?
47.
THOMASLieutenant, sir.
(salutes him)I'm here to treat my patient.
ELIJAH CROWEI know I've told you yesterday totreat him, but... Lawson, you arenot obliged to heal him upcompletely. His condition isstabilized. That's all thatmatters.
THOMASAs a soldier, I am not obliged totreat an enemy, it's true. But I amnot a simple soldier anymore,Lieutenant. I remember you oncetold me I had an innate medicaltalent and should've followed thatpath... I admit you were right. Butit is not only the talent that Ihave. I have this urge... The urgeto help every person that mightneed my attention, and with that, Imean to help fully. Once a personbecomes my patient, I find it myduty to heal them up completely,and I don't care whether they're myfriends or foes. I am not just asoldier, Lieutenant. I am a doctor.
Lieutenant Crowe watches Thomas for a while, and so doesKnut Berger.
Knut's gaze is serious, observing, and a bit astounded, asif he can fully understand what Thomas is saying.
Elijah Crowe is surprised at first, but then heaves a sigh -he has been a leader of the armies for long, so he guessesThomas must have lost a patient on the battlefield.
ELIJAH CROWEAlright, Lawson. After all, it wasI who asked you to follow thatpath. Now I can't really order youto trample on your principles of atrue medic. I really am proud ofyou, though. I am proud you belongto my division.
THOMAS(smiles)
Thanks for understanding, Sir.
Thomas kneels beside Knut and grabs the bandages of hiswound.
48.
THOMASHey there, friend.
(smiles)Sorry I came so late, had to treatmy friends first. You are a soldiertoo so you know the rules, right?First, one's teammates, then -one's foes... So it goes.
(chuckles)But for true doctors, every lifematters. That is how I've beentaught, even before I'd join thearmy. Now then, bear with me, friend.Just need to make sure you'reproperly recovering.
He begins to treat his wound.
THOMASHmph, who would've thought? You'redoing pretty great... Are all ofyour people so sturdy?
(chuckles)Good job.
At such gaiety of his, Knut Berger returns a faint chuckle.
THOMAS FINISHES treating Knut and bandages his wound again.
Knut raises his hand. Elijah carefully watches them fromaside - still observing that the hostage doesn't mess up.
Knut has no ill intentions. He just rubs Thomas' head with akind grin. Thomas laughs.
THOMASNo problem, friend, you're welcome!
Thomas packs his medical equipment, stands up, salutesLieutenant Crowe and the 2 officers and walks out.
INT. BATTLE CAMP - CONTINUOUS
Thomas returns into the soldiers' place. Once he passesGarry Ruth, this latter sneers.
GARRY RUTHGood job helping our enemy, Lawson!
The soldiers widen eyes hearing such a remark. JeremiahPower rises up from the stretcher he's lying on.
JEREMIAH POWERHuh? Bullshit! Mah mate Lawsonwould never do that!
(to Thomas)Am I right, mah man?
49.
DARRELL LEEYeah, there's no way! That man'scondition has been stabilizedyesterday. Why would Lawson treathim further?
ERNESTO RAMIREZDon't speak crap, Ruth! Lawson justwent to visit the lieutenant.
(to Thomas)Right, mate?
THOMAS(grimly)
I did treat him. But I don't seewhy I shouldn't have. He's mypatient.
The soldiers are shocked.
JEREMIAH POWERYa did what?!
ERNESTO RAMIREZAre you for real? He's an enemy,dude!
DARRELL LEEThat is really careless of you,Lawson! We don't need our enemiesat full health!
FIRST RANDOM SOLDIERI know, right! And it's not likethose guys will pity their owncaptives or anything! They'rebrutes, those bastards!
SECOND RANDOM SOLDIERYeah, I hear they don't even treattheir wounded prisoners.
THIRD RANDOM SOLDIER(laughs)
Screw treating! They even torturethem, sometimes to death!
Thomas just walks on.
FIRST RANDOM SOLDIERWhere're you going, Lawson? We needanswers!
JEREMIAH POWERYeah, man, what the heck?
50.
THOMASWe've got nothing to discuss. Iacted on my honour, just as theArmy Values demand.
Thomas walks out of the tent, headed to the medical unit.
EXT. THE BATTLEFIELD - DAY
The battle continues. Thomas's friends are shooting at fullforce: Darrell Lee, Jeremiah Power, Ernesto Ramirez, GarryRuth - everyone's dived into the severe fight.
However, they are at a disadvantage - the ENEMY PLANESappear in the sky and shoot BOMBS down. The ENEMY TANKS seemto be advancing as well. ENEMIES are shooting bombs thatexplode near the TROOPS and injure quite a lot of them.
ELIJAH CROWERetreat! Abandon the camp!
RANDOM OFFICERMove out, boys! Now!
The armies begin retreating. Thomas and the MEDICS arecarrying the wounded as well as treating them.
Thomas hears a shrill from the behind. He sees Darrell Leehas collapsed due to an EXPLOSION nearby.
THOMASLee!
Thomas runs back.
TIMOTHY BROWNLawson, come back! It's dangerous!
Thomas doesn't listen and grabs collapsed Lee's hand. GarryRuth, who is nearby, gives them a hand. They both help Leeup.
DARRELL LEEThank you!
THOMASNo problem. Let's run!
They run off.
Darrell soon outmatches both Thomas and Garry Ruth and runsup to his friends Ernesto and Jeremiah.
ELIJAH CROWEDon't fall behind! Move!
The PLANE ENGINES are ROARING and BOMBS are EXPLODING allover the field.
51.
JEREMIAH POWERUgh, curse these air forces!
(keeps shooting andretreating)
We would've won if not thosebastards!
ERNESTO RAMIREZYeah, but this is war. They don'tfight all fair and square. Let'skeep moving now!
JEREMIAH POWERTch, curse 'em!
Thomas runs at a slower pace since he pays attention to thewhole army - he doesn't want to leave anyone behind.
A BOMB EXPLODES near him. Thomas YELLS and falls, injureddue to the impact. Blood trickles off his skin.
Thomas looks up. His vision has gone BLURRED, yet he canstill notice Garry Ruth near him.
THOMASRuth...
(coughs)Help...
Garry is terrified - ENEMIES, now not only tanks and planesbut even the FOOT SOLDIERS - are advancing at a fast pace.There's no minute to lose. He looks back at Thomas.
GARRY RUTHYou've been helping enemies. I... Ican't help a pathetic traitor suchas you, Lawson.
Garry runs off, clearly terrorized of the advancing enemyforces rather than acting on his principles.
Thomas can see Gary from the behind as he runs off - the manhe has once saved.
Thomas's entire body has gone numb. He looks around with hisblurred vision, and barely notices ENEMY SOLDIERS come up tohim. They have overtaken their former camp. They point gunsat Thomas. Thomas blacks out.
INT. ENEMY BARRACKS - NIGHT
Thomas wakes up in a locked cell. He is bewildered andconfused at first, not able to remember all that hashappened.
SEVERAL FLASHBACKS RECUR - the sounds of BOMBS EXPLODING,his sight going BLURRED, and Garry Ruth abandoning him.
52.
GARRY RUTH (O.S.) (FLASHBACK VOICE)You've been helping enemies. I... Ican't help a pathetic traitor suchas you, Lawson.
Thomas feels disappointed and betrayed - he had saved theguy and this latter has dumped him at the enemies' mercy.
HEAR the door creak and open.
Five ENEMY SOLDIERS walk in, led by MAJOR SCHNEIDER - a40-year-old scarred-faced ruthless man.
MAJOR SCHNEIDER(in English with brokenaccent)
What is your purpose on our lands?
THOMASH... Huh?
Major Schneider gives a sign to his henchmen. They BEATThomas hard so that his wounds reopen and he begins tobleed.
MAJOR SCHNEIDERI'll ask again - what are youafter, on our lands?
THOMAS(coughs blood)
Hell, I've no idea of that crap,man... I'm just a doctor.
The enemy soldiers continue beating him hard.
THOMASHell, I'm just a doctor, youbastards!
The enemies don't want to hear this simple truth.
Thomas and some other PRISONERS in different CELLS aregetting TORTURED in a similar manner, day by day. TheirSHRILLS deafen the area.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.)Since he was captured, it wasalmost like hell, or even worse.The prisoners were not fed, theirwounds were left untreated... Somesoldiers would die on their own,some would be killed duringtorture, some would even be shot.My father held out, but... It didleave a huge mark on his soul.Luckily, the war ended soon after,so he managed to survive.
(MORE)
53.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.) (cont'd)But it was not that much of a happymoment.
EXT. ENEMY BARRACKS - DAY
The PRISONERS are taken out of the barracks. The end of warhas been announced, but the prisoners still remain incustody, Thomas included.
Thomas looks all bloodied - apparently just been tortured.He is held together with the other prisoners - hiscountrymen.
MAJOR SCHNEIDEROkay, put these scum in a line andshoot 'em down, all of 'em!
ENEMY SOLDIERSYes, sir!
They put the FIRST LINE OF CAPTIVES and shoot them down.
Thomas and the others watch it in horror. Thomas trembles -he knows now will be his turn.
MAJOR SCHNEIDERSecond line, go!
ENEMY SOLDIERSYes, Sir!
KNUT BERGER (O.S.)Wait, Major Schneider! Let mehandle that one.
Thomas is shocked - Knut Berger, one time a captive oftheirs, has now approached them in his major attire, full ofpride and dignity.
What's more - Knut is the same kind of a ruthless war dog asMajor Schneider that's been torturing him these past weeks.Knut's part of prisoners are no less tortured - it seemshe's no different from his colleagues.
MAJOR SCHNEIDEROh, Major Berger?
KNUT BERGERI've got a business with this one.I'd prefer to finish him offmyself, if you allow.
Knut Berger points on Thomas.
Thomas is even more shocked - he doesn't know theirlanguage, but can understand few words like "finish off"since they've been using it a lot while he's been incaptivity. He senses something is up.
54.
MAJOR SCHNEIDEROh... Alright, I've got noobjections. Main is we wipe 'em outsince we've got no more use of 'em.The sooner we're done the better.
Knut nods and gives a sign to his UNDERLINGS. They grabtortured and weakened Thomas who cannot even struggleanymore and take him away.
They shove him INTO A CAR. Knut takes the wheel and drivesoff.
FROM THE BEHIND, Thomas once again hears the SHOTS - theSECOND LINE OF CAPTIVES has been shot down.
INT. KNUT BERGER'S CAR - DAY (TRAVELING)
Knut is driving the car on the road.
Thomas watches Knut from the backseat and floats intothoughts, aware that his death is near. This time too, a manhe's saved has turned against him.
THOMAS (V.O.) (THOUGHTS)The hell with it... Is this allI've been striving for? Live up to19 years and die like a dog in someforeign land by the hand of somebastard I've once saved?Friend? Foe? What is the damndifference? What is the use ofhelping people if they stab you inthe back like this? What was allthat "kindness" crap Joe's beenteaching me all those years? Isthis what army's all about - beabandoned by your comrades andkilled in custody? What have I beenfighting for? Those mollycoddlecitizens warming up in their damnhouses, not even giving a pin for ahungry beggar boy in the streets?Ugh, I'd rather have died fromhunger than be shot down in aremote land like this!
THE CAR STOPS. Thomas is stupefied. He then shudders as hesees they're in a REMOTE FIELD.
THOMAS (V.O.) (THOUGHTS)Do I literally have to die in aremote land?
EXT. REMOTE FIELD, KNUT BERGER'S CAR - CONTINUOUS
Knut comes out of the car, opens the backseat door and dragsThomas out.
55.
KNUT BERGER (in perfect English)
Out! Out, I said!
Thomas, much weakened from wounds and maltreatment of theprevious days, obeys without much struggle and gets out ofthe car. He is terrified that his death has come so near.
The minute Thomas comes out, Knut takes his major emblem offhis military jacket, then takes off the jacket itself, andwraps Thomas in it. He then puts his own hat on him.
Thomas watches Knut bewildered. Knut doesn't explain much.He grabs Thomas' arm a bit violently again, as per hishabit, and shoves him in the frontseat, beside himself. Hethen enters the car and takes the wheel anew.
INT. KNUT BERGER'S CAR - CONTINUOUS (TRAVELING)
Knut begins driving again.
Thomas is much perturbed - he can't understand what has justhappened and what his fate might be.
Knut starts talking, much in an ordering tone like a truemilitary major.
KNUT BERGER Now, kid, listen carefully and doexactly as I say.I'm taking you to the border. Justhand them this thing,
(stuffs a border passpaper in his hands)
And they'll let you pass. No oddgestures, no odd emotions, got it?Just pass through and get the hellout of here.
THOMAS W... What?
KNUT BERGER I believe I'm talking normalEnglish?
THOMAS No, I mean_
KNUT BERGER Then no questions, hell with it!
THOMAS But if I cross the border... Whatwill happen to you? I mean_
56.
KNUT BERGER You want me to shoot you down sobad?
Thomas freezes in dread. Knut easily notices his reaction.
KNUT BERGER Well then, shut your mouth and doas told. I'll manage my affairs. I just don't want to see a kindlittle guy like you shot dead.Don't ruin my mood. I'm not alwaysso generous.
Thomas hushes up, still horrified that Knut might as wellchange his 'mood'.
EXT. BORDER - DAY
The CAR arrives at the BORDER.
There are CERTAIN PEOPLE passing through. Since the war hasbeen announced over, people are returning to their formerhomes after custody.
Knut walks OUT OF THE CAR and drags Thomas out.
KNUT BERGER Now then, go, and don't turn back.
He pushes him towards the GROUP OF PEOPLE that are PASSINGthe BORDER.
Thomas, much bewildered and only half-awake due to his pastinjuries, trots through the crowd. He doesn't dare turnback, for he still thinks Knut might change his mind.
He places the PAPER Knut has given him before the BORDERCONTROL, just as Knut has instructed.
They indeed let him pass. He walks on, and soon appears onthe OTHER SIDE OF THE BORDER.
There, he turns back, to see Knut BEYOND THE NET-WALL.
Knut salutes him just once, from afar, and sits back INTOTHE CAR.
Thomas watches him DRIVE OFF.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.)So, out of all the guys he hadtreated, dad was betrayed by acomrade, and saved by an enemy.
57.
INT. THE SCHOOL, CLASSROOM - DAY
The classroom is full of 13-year-old CHILDREN. DYLLAN LAWSON- a likewise 13-year-old boy with strawberry-blonde hair andlight-blue eyes - is standing AT THE BLACKBOARD and READINGhis assignment paper in front of the class.
The TEACHER, MS. NORTON - a curly woman with glasses - islistening attentively FROM THE TEACHER's SEAT.
The CHILDREN are likewise drawn into the narrative.Especially interested is JANICE MCMILLAN - a curlyred-haired green-eyed girl sitting AT THE FRONT DESK.
MS. NORTONYour story is so interesting,Dyllan! So, what happened to yourfather after he returned?
DYLLAN LAWSON Thank you, Miss. Well, since he had been taken underthe patronage of General JonathanCrowe, it continued even after thewar. The Crowe welcomed him intheir family. Father got a lot ofsupport from them, and gradually,was able to continue his studies ina Medical University, as per hisown wish.Nowadays, he's a renowned doctor,and he strives to help as manypeople as he can.
MS. NORTONThat is amazing! And, what aboutyour mother?
JANICE MCMILLANYeah, how did they meet?
DYLLAN LAWSON (smirks)
Oh, by the time the war ended, theyhad already met... But how they meta second time, is where things getinteresting.
INT. JANE'S APARTMENT - DAY
Jane Diamond, now 9-year-old, is zealously DRAWING beautifulchildish PICTURES.
MOST OF THE DRAWINGS depict how a LITTLE GIRL gives a POORBOY some gifts, food, or simply helps him out.
IN SOME DRAWINGS, the GIRL is a FAIRY and the BOY is aHUMAN, in some others - both are human, but the GIRL is RICHwhile the BOY is a BEGGAR.
58.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.)Jane Diamond had always had a greatpassion for drawing. But itintensified after she met thebeggar boy from the streets -Thomas. Since then, the majorinspiration of many of her drawingswas a poor ragged boy receivingblessings from a kind little girl.
HEAR a bell on the door.
THERESE DIAMOND, Jane's mother - a woman in her upperthirties, with black bob-hair and light-blue eyes - runs upto the door and OPENS it.
Jane hears her mother scream in happiness and burst intotears.
Jane drops the pencils and runs into the entry, to see HERFATHER come home. It is JAKE DIAMOND - a strawberry-blonde-haired, blue-eyed man in his early forties,strawberry-blonde stubble covering his face. He lacks theleft arm.
JANEDaddy!
Jane bursts into joyful tears and hugs him tightly.
Therese is no less joyful, and hugs him too.
Jake embraces both Jane and Therese, covering them inkisses.
JAKE DIAMONDI'm back, my angels...
JANEI knew it!
(sobs)I knew you'd come back! I believed so strongly, it had tocome true!
JAKE DIAMOND(laughs)
Of course, I came back! Your daddycan't be beaten by some spinelessenemies now, can he?
The family rejoices.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.)Jane's father came back from thefrontlines, and the familyrejoiced...However, their joy was short-timed.
(MORE)
59.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.) (cont'd)In just a year, a horrible eventshook their hearts.
1 YEAR LATER:
INT. JANE'S APARTMENT - DAY
Jane is ill. Therese is nursing her. Jake is present in theroom too. He is no less worried. The DOCTOR - a chubby oldwoman - is examining Jane's heartbeat.
Jane coughs out blood in the bed.
THERESE DIAMONDGoodness!
DOCTORYou will need to see acardiologist. It might be moresevere than we thought.
THERESE DIAMONDWhat?! W... What is wrong with her?
DOCTORHer heartbeat is abnormal. I'dsuggest it be checked so we knowwhat exactly is wrong.
THERESE DIAMONDOh, goodness! Jake...
JAKE DIAMONDI'm calling the hospital right now!
INT. THE HOSPITAL, CARDIOLOGIST'S ROOM - DAY
The CARDIOLOGIST - a middle-aged man with glasses - istalking with Therese and Jake after having examined Jane.
CARDIOLOGISTShe has a heart condition.Thankfully, it can be treated,since it's not seriously developed.However, she will need to takemedications properly, and sheshould not be exposed to muchstress, by any means.
THERESE DIAMONDOh, goodness! Will she be alright,Doctor?
CARDIOLOGISTIf you take all of my advice andtreat her as is due, she will beperfectly alright, Madam. But be
(MORE)
60.
CARDIOLOGIST (cont'd)sure not to expose her to stress,by any means, so that the processdoes not go worse.
THERESE DIAMONDAh, thank you, Doctor! We will doexactly as you advise!
JAKE DIAMONDTruly, thank you.
INT. JANE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Therese has just put Jane to bed. She is ready to leave theroom when Jane asks.
JANEMommy, am I going to die?
THERESE DIAMONDWhat?! Ah, no, sweetie, never saythat! You heard the doctor, didn'tyou? You'll be perfectly fine! Hesaid not to stress out or worry. Soyou needn't worry at all, aboutsuch things!
JANEI want to grow up and become aworld-famous painter, mommy.
THERESE DIAMONDOh, you certainly will, darling!
Therese kisses Jane on the forehead.
THERESE DIAMONDEverything's going to be alright.Now sleep. Nighty night!
JANENighty night, mommy!
Therese switches the light off, leaves the room, and closesthe door behind. Jane watches her exit.
Jane turns around TO A WALL. There's a colourful CHILDISHDRAWING hung, done on simple paper - her work.
THE DRAWING DEPICTS a girl giving a cup of milk and hotcookies to a beggar boy.
Jane faintly smiles.
JANE (V.O.) (THOUGHTS)How are you, Thomas? I wonder whereyou are now...
(MORE)
61.
JANE (V.O.) (THOUGHTS) (cont'd)Daddy returned, just as you told mehe would, if I kept believing. Do you think that, if I keepbelieving now, I will truly befine? Mommy and daddy say so, so itmust be true. But I'm still a bitscared...But you're right - I must keepbelieving. Dreams will always cometrue, if one believes stronglyenough.
She closes eyes and falls asleep.
13 YEARS LATER:
INT. JANE'S UNIVERSITY, THE AUDITORIUM - DAY
Jane - now a 23-year-old beautiful young woman with longcurly strawberry-blonde hair and blue eyes - is sitting inthe auditorium full of STUDENTS of her age, listening to theLECTURER - an old man with glasses.
Jane looks pale, exhausted, and nerve-wracked, as if she hasmany personal problems.
Next to her, there are her friends: BRIDGET ROSE - a23-year-old black girl with a ponytail, and SHIRLEY LONGWOOD- a 24-year-old blue-eyed girl with long blond straighthair.
Bridget WHISPERS to Jane and Shirley.
BRIDGETHey, do you have any more lecturesafter this one?
SHIRLEYNo.
JANENah. This one's last for today.
BRIDGETWanna go have some fun?
SHIRLEYSure! Grab a coffee or?
BRIDGETYes, perfect!
JANEI can't. I've got work today.
BRIDGETAww, come on! Not again!
62.
LECTURERThat's all for today. See you onthe seminar on Friday. Goodbye!
Jane, Bridget, and Shirley grab their bags and walk out ofthe auditorium together with the other students.
INT. JANE'S UNIVERSITY, CORRIDORS - CONTINUOUS
Jane, Bridget, and Shirley walk through corridors, to godownstairs and exit the building.
BRIDGET(to Jane)
So, work again, huh?
JANEYeah... Dad doesn't work due to hiswar injuries, and mom has her handsfull, but the income's not enough.So I've got to take care of myselfand pay my study fees on my own.
SHIRLEYBut you work every day and even onSaturday! Isn't it a bit too much?
JANEWell, until I become a famousartist, I've gotta feed myselfsomehow. Children can't rely ontheir parents forever, can they?
BRIDGETYeah but... Ugh, that sucks!Especially putting up with such ajerk as that Mr. Green of yours.How do you even handle that kind ofan idiot?
SHIRLEYI know, right! I've heard he'salways yelling at his employeeslike crazy.
JANEUgh, don't even get me started onthat.
(rolls eyes)Every day is a disaster.
BRIDGETWhy don't you just look for anotherjob?
JANEI've been looking for it, but noneof them fit my schedule so far.
(MORE)
63.
JANE (cont'd)Ugh, it's complicated... Let's nottalk about it, okay?
SHIRLEYYeah, let's focus on the positive.How's that exhibition thing comingalong? You said you wereparticipating, right?
JANEYeah, at least that's a relief.Mrs. Lee said my painting wasreally unique and would attractmuch attention, so they're going todisplay it near the entrance. Ihope it succeeds.
BRIDGETWow, that's amazing! Which paintingis it? "A Glass of Milk",perchance?
JANEYeah, that one.
BRIDGETDamn, I knew it! That one's myfavourite of yours - that littlegirl and a beggar guy and all.Congratulations! That one's amasterpiece, for sure.
JANEYeah, thanks... Although it's stillearly to judge.
BRIDGETUgh, come on! To be accepted in anart exhibition? Are you kidding?It's a blast!
SHIRLEYBridget's right - it is an amazingachievement. More so that you'restill but a student.
JANEYeah, I guess so...
INT. CAFE (JANE'S WORKPLACE) - DAY
Jane is waiting to the CUSTOMERS in a cheap cafe.
Many lecherous guys have their eyes on Jane. 3 GUYS areparticularly interested. She tries to act like she doesn'tsee it, even though it bothers her a lot.
Jane brings a dish to the table of those 3 guys.
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JANEHere's your order, sirs. Enjoy!
The 3 guys lay eyes on her. Jane walks back into thekitchen.
MR. GREEN - the boss - is walking around. He is a chubby manin his fifties, with a moustache and an unwelcomingdemeanour.
MR. GREENMiss Diamond!
JANE(rolls eyes and turnsaround)
Yes, Mr. Green?
MR. GREENCome to my office.
Mr. Green walks INTO HIS OFFICE. Jane heaves a sigh ofirritation but follows him because she has no other choice.
INT. CAFE (JANES WORKPLACE), MR. GREEN'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Mr. Green's office is arranged in meticulous order. Hechanges the place of a pen on his desk so that it willremain neat. It is obvious he is eccentric and keen ontidiness.
Mr. Green takes a seat and motions Jane on a chair oppositeto himself.
MR. GREENTake a seat.
Jane reluctantly takes a seat and looks at him.
MR. GREENMiss Diamond, I am sad to announcethis to you, but I've got no otherchoice: I have to fire you.
Jane remains speechless for a while - she's too shocked.
JANEW-What?
MR. GREENDon't get me wrong, I've gotnothing against you. It's just thatI've done several calculations andit turned out I need lessemployees.
JANEBut... Ugh, why me? You know I needthis job, Mr. Green! I'm barely_
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MR. GREENYes, I understand your conditions,Miss Diamond, but there is nothingI can do. Others have been employedhere for much longer than you. Andlet's be honest - you don't performquite as well as them. Added thatyou have a complicated schedule.You are the one who has to go. I amsorry, but there's nothing I cando.
Jane wants to reply and spit out all of her anguish, butrestrains herself. She leaves the office without a word.Tears appear in her eyes.
EXT. STREET NEAR THE CAFE (JANE'S FORMER WORKPLACE) -CONTINUOUS
Jane is walking in the street, wiping tears off her face.She feels embarrassed that she is crying. She tries to holdherself but is unable - she is way too worried and stressed.
The 3 GUYS from the cafe that had been watching her are nowON HER TAIL. They are following her, clearly for badintentions.
JANE(mutters)
You don't perform as well, blah,blah... As if working and studyingsimultaneously is easy! Ugh,everyone only cares about their owndamn position... You are afull-time student? Your family canbarely pay taxes? Well not that wecare, we have our damn business torun here! Asshole...
Jane feels the ominous presence. She stops. She glancesbehind. The 3 guys stop too. Jane walks on. They walk on aswell.
Jane now faintly looks back and notices the guys arefollowing her.
Her heart starts beating hard - she is frightened. Sheswerves INTO A SMALLER ALLEY.
EXT. DARK ALLEY DISTRICT - CONTINUOUS
Jane walks through DARK ALLEYS.
The BOYS are still on her tail.
Jane MAKES MANY TURNS through the ALLEYS and comes out on aBROADER STREET. Her BLOCK is NEARBY.
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EXT. THE BROAD STREET NEAR JANE'S BLOCK - CONTINUOUS
Jane CROSSES THE STREET and arrives at her BLOCK.
The BOYS walk after her anyway.
Jane opens the door and WALKS UP THE STAIRS.
The 3 BOYS stop AT THE ENTRANCE OF THE BLOCK. They walk awayin disappointment.
INT. JANE'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS
Therese - Jane's mother - is sitting AT A TABLE in thePARLOUR. She has hung her head in her hands and seems reallydistressed.
Jake - Jane's father - is walking up and down in thePARLOUR. His lost arm is wrapped-up - he is a war veteranwith no job.
HEAR the door creak and open. Therese and Jake look at it.
JANEI'm home!
Jane enters and closes the door. She walks INTO THE PARLOURto meet her parents. She seems troubled - she doesn't knowhow to reveal her bad news.
Jane notices her mother is no less distressed. She gets moreworried than before.
JANEMom? W... What happened?
Therese wants to reply, but remains silent. Jake speaks inher stead.
JAKE DIAMONDYour mother lost her job today.
JANEWhat?!
THERESE DIAMONDThe factory was shut down. All ofus had to leave.
JANEImpossible...
THERESE DIAMONDWe will have to rely on you for awhile, dear, until I find anotherjob. Is that okay?
JANERely on me?!
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Jane is dreaded.
JANEThis... This can't be happening!
THERESE DIAMONDJane, are you alright? What'swrong?
Therese rushes up to Jane once notices she's troubled.
Jake is no less distressed.
JAKE DIAMONDWhat happened, treasure?
JANEGoodness... Ugh! I can't!
Jane gasps for air. She has a hard time breathing. Her eyesroll and she blacks out.
THERESE DIAMONDJane!!!
JAKE DIAMONDJane!
Jake quickly catches Jane in mid-air.
THERESE DIAMONDGoodness! Call the ambulance!
Therese dashes at the phone and dials the number.
THERESE DIAMONDHello? Ambulance? My child'sunconscious!
SEE Jane unconscious and paled-out in Jake's arms.
HEAR the siren of the AMBULANCE.
INT. THE HOSPITAL, CORRIDORS NEAR JANE'S WARD - DAY
Therese and Jake are sitting in the hospital before Jane'sward, worried.
Soon Nurse MS. ROBINSON - a fair Indian woman - walks out ofthe ward.
THERESE DIAMONDHow is she?
MS. ROBINSONWe have examined her condition. I'mafraid the surgery will benecessary.
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JAKE DIAMONDWhat?
THERESE DIAMONDOh, goodness!
Therese cuddles with Jake in distress.
JAKE DIAMONDWill she be alright?
MS. ROBINSONOur doctors are professionals. Youcan rest assured.
JAKE DIAMONDThank you.
INT. THE HOSPITAL, DR. LAWSON'S ROOM - DAY
Dr. Thomas Lawson (now 33-year-old, dressed in a whitesmock, with faded scars on hands and the neck, that areremnants of his military service) is sitting at a tableexamining some papers.
Nurse CODY ROGERS (a 28-year-old guy with glasses) entersDr. Lawson's room.
CODY ROGERSGood evening, Dr. Lawson!
THOMAS Oh, hey, Cody. I hear I'm called upfor another surgery?
CODY ROGERSYes, Doctor. Here are the detailsabout the patient.
THOMAS Oh, thanks!
Thomas grabs the papers and eyes them. He gets shocked at acertain detail.
THOMAS (V.O.) (THOUGHTS)Jane Diamond?! 23-year-old... Yes, it should be her!
Thomas reviews the papers in a haste. He stands up andplaces the papers on the table.
THOMAS Okay, Cody. Tell them to preparefor the surgery. I'll be there inshort.
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CODY ROGERSYes, Doctor.
Cody leaves.
INT. THE HOSPITAL, THE SURGICAL WARD - NIGHT
Jane is sleeping on a surgical bed (anesthesia's alreadybeen done).
Cody Rogers and 2 FEMALE NURSES, as well as the AssistantSurgeon GEORGE ROWAN (a 29-year-old man), are in the room.
Dr. Thomas Lawson arrives, equipped and ready to begin theprocedure.
Thomas casts a single glance at Jane before starting thesurgery.
THOMAS (V.O.) (THOUGHTS)She's grown so much since we lastmet... Time sure flies.No worries, Jane, I'll fix you up,I promise. You'll be fine.
THOMAS(out loud)
Okay, folks, let's begin.
THE SURGERY BEGINS. Thomas works hard, trying his best tosave Jane's life.
INT. THE HOSPITAL, THE SURGICAL WARD - LATER
The surgeons FINISH the job. Thomas sighs in relief.
GEORGE ROWANYou've been as amazing as always,Doctor.
CODY ROGERSI know, right! Yet anothersuccessful surgery.
THOMASYou're giving me too much creditand selling yourselves cheap. Icouldn't have done it without you.Thank you, guys, and good job.
The doctors and nurses seem satisfied. Thomas casts one lastglance at Jane before leaving.
EXT. THE HOSPITAL, CORRIDORS - LATER
George Rowan and Thomas are walking along the corridors.Thomas wears his white smock again, as before the surgery.
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THOMASOne more thing, George...
GEORGE ROWANYes, Doctor?
THOMASWhen the final bill for MissDiamond is ready, bring it to mefirst. I'll give the signature,this time.
GEORGE ROWANOh? Alright, Doctor. But why such asudden change of habit?
THOMASNah, just a whim.
GEORGE ROWAN(chuckles)
Alright, alright.
1 WEEK LATER:
INT. THE HOSPITAL, JANE'S WARD - DAY
Jane is recovering. Parents Therese and Jake have visitedher. Therese hugs her.
THERESE DIAMONDAh, I'm so happy you're alright,Jane!
JAKE DIAMONDHow are you, dear? Is everythinggoing alright?
JANEYeah, I'm fine, dad. Thank youboth. I am so sorry I've made youworry!
THERESE DIAMONDWhat are you saying, dear? You'vegot nothing to be sorry for! Mainis that you're healthy now, andyou'll be discharged tomorrow!
JAKE DIAMONDYeah. Now everything will be fine.
JANEYeah, but... What about your job,mom? How are we going to pay thehospital bill? I've brought so manyproblems with this yet anothermess!
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THERESE DIAMONDYou don't need to worry, Jane! Yourfather and I will take care ofeverything.
Therese squeezes Jane's hand, giving her a smile to lift herhopes. But deep within, she feels worried too, because sheis still unemployed, and, most likely, won't find a new jobanytime soon.
Jane can notice the worry in her mother's eyes, which upsetsher even more.
JAKE DIAMONDYeah, don't worry about a thing.Take a rest and make sure toproperly recover! Aren't youdaddy's tough girl? Well, who's mytough girl?
Jane can't help but smile at Jake's encouraging words. Shenods.
JAKE DIAMONDWell, that's more like it!
HEAR the door open. Nurse Ms. Robinson enters. Jake andTherese stand up.
THERESE DIAMONDWell, we'll go now, Jane. Stayhealthy! We'll be back tomorrow, topick you up!
JAKE DIAMONDYeah. Stay strong! And no worries!
Jake and Therese bid goodbye to Ms. Robinson too, on theirway out, and exit.
Ms. Robinson approaches Jane.
MS. ROBINSONGood evening, Miss Diamond! How areyou feeling?
JANEI'm better.
MS. ROBINSONFeeling any pain?
JANENo. Not after yesterday.
MS. ROBINSONWonderful. Now, let me check yourpulse again...
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Ms. Robinson checks her pulse.
MS. ROBINSONYes, all in order.
JANEMs. Robinson...
MS. ROBINSONYes?
JANEMay I check my hospital bill?
MS. ROBINSONOh? We thought we'd give it to youwhen you're discharged, tomorrow...
JANEMay I check it now?
MS. ROBINSONOh, sure... I'll be back in aminute.
Ms. Robinson exits.
Jane waits. She is anxious. She fears the fees will beimmense, and her parents will have a lot of problems payingit.
HEAR the door creak.
Ms. Robinson returns with the bill receipt in her hands.
MS. ROBINSONThere you go!
She hands Jane the paper.
Jane grabs the paper, trembling. She reviews the contents.She almost freaks out at the immense fees, but then she seesa certain handwritten note underneath, and freaks out evenmore.
THOMAS (V.O.) (THE NOTE ON THERECEIPT)
Bill paid years ago with a glass ofmilk and cookies.
Below is the signature - Dr. Thomas Lawson.
Jane stares at the note and the signature. She covers hermouth with a hand. Tears trickle off her eyes.
JANEMs. Robinson, may I... See Dr.Lawson?
73.
MS. ROBINSONOh, sure, but... Why? Are youalright, Miss Diamond?
JANEYeah, yeah, it's alright...
(smiles, tears in hereyes)
I just want to see him, if he has aminute.
MS. ROBINSONOh, of course. I'll inform himright away.
Ms. Robinson exits again. Jane heaves a sob.
JANEI can't believe this... Goodness,this must be a dream! I can't_ Thisis a miracle!
HEAR a knock on the door.
Thomas has entered.
THOMASYou wanted to see me, Miss Diamond?
Thomas walks up to her side and takes a seat on a chair.
JANEDoctor, this note...You are that boy, of back then,aren't you?
Thomas can't help but smile. Jane guesses it's a 'yes'.
JANEI can't believe it...
THOMASI couldn't either, at first...But I sure am glad to see youagain.
JANENo, no... You don't even know howmuch this means to me.
(points on the note)You have no idea... Ugh, thank youso much, Doctor! Thank you! I... Ican't even thank you enough...
Tears gush from her eyes again.
74.
THOMASNow, please don't cry, MissDiamond. You've just had a surgeryonly a week ago. Crying is not goodfor your health.And then... You don't have to thankme for my own gratitude.
Jane stares at him with questioning eyes.
THOMASYears ago, when you invited thatpoor beggar boy into your house andshared with him a glass of milk andcookies, it was not just some foodyou gave him... You gave him thehope. The hope for a better future.The hope for the better world. Yousaved him. That moment back then,was my salvation. What I did now, was simply repaythe immense debt I owed you, MissDiamond. The one who should begrateful is me. To you.
Jane watches him with teary eyes. A happy smile forms on herface. She still appears to have a hard time believing inwhat's happening to her right now, but she seems ontoseventh heaven.
DYLLAN LAWSON (V.O.)On that day, my father and mothermet for the second time in theirlives. This time, as anaccomplished surgeon and hispatient - a talented art student.
INT. THE SCHOOL, CLASSROOM - DAY
Dyllan is standing before the classroom, near the teacher'sseat, having narrated the whole story.
JANICE MCMILLANWow! So, that little girl JaneDiamond whom your father met backthen, was actually your mother?
DYLLAN LAWSON (smiles)
Yes. It was my mother. After she was discharged from thehospital, she and dad continuedmeeting, and soon, became a couple. Mom's art she had submitted to theexhibition got an immense appeal,so it was her first successful stepin her career as an artist. Now sheis a famous painter and runs a
(MORE)
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DYLLAN LAWSON (cont'd)charity fund, to help homelesschildren.That's all. That's the story aboutmy parents.
The classmates applaud, mesmerized by the story. Theteacher, Ms. Norton, claps too.
MS. NORTONThank you very much, Dyllan! It wasamazing!
(to class)Well, class, I guess we all agreeMr. Lawson deserves an A?
The classmates applaud again, in the form of approval.
Ms. Norton smiles and puts the mark down on Dyllan's paper.
DYLLAN LAWSON Thank you, Miss!
MS. NORTONThank you for such an incrediblestory! You may take your seat!
Dyllan walks back to his desk, happy to have received thehighest mark for his work.
EXT. THE SCHOOL, YARD - LATER
HEAR the bell ring.
Dyllan walks out of the building, his schoolbag on his back,and walks up to JOE LAWSON - a 16-year-old tall guy withsky-blue eyes and strawberry-blonde hair. He has aguitar-bag hung onto his back.
JOE LAWSONYo, Dyllan! How was school?
Joe and Dyllan exchange a brotherly hand-shake. Then theyhead out of the schoolyard.
EXT. THE STREET, NEAR SCHOOL - CONTINUOUS
The boys are walking back home.
DYLLAN LAWSON It was cool. I received an A for myassignment.
JOE LAWSONHmph, no wonder. Told you you'd aceit.
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DYLLAN LAWSON I know, right! Wait until I tellparents. They're going to be happy.
JOE LAWSONYup, they sure are.
INT. THE LAWSON HOUSE, ENTRANCE CORRIDOR - LATER
HEAR the doorbell ring.
JANE (O.S.) (41-YEAR-OLD)Tom, it should be the kids! Open!
THOMAS (O.S.) (51-YEAR-OLD)Coming!
Thomas Lawson, now 51-year-old, walks up to the door andopens.
Joe and Dyllan walk in.
THOMAS Welcome home, boys.
JOE LAWSONYo, dad. You're home?
THOMAS Yeah. You told me you wanted me tohear your new album, didn't you?
JOE LAWSONYup. Thanks for finding time!
Thomas chuckles. Joe puts his guitar-bag at a wall.
DYLLAN LAWSON Dad, I got an A at school today.
THOMAS Woah, congrats! Though I didn'texpect anything less from you.
Thomas rubs Dyllan's head. Dyllan smiles.
DYLLAN LAWSON Yeah. It was an assignment aboutour parents, so I told them yourand mom's story.
THOMAS Oh? Yeah, that one would win you amedal, for sure.Now come on, wash your hands and tothe dinner table. Mom's waiting.
DYLLAN LAWSON Alright!
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JOE LAWSONYeah, coming!
Dyllan and Joe head for the bathroom.
INT. THE LAWSON HOUSE, THE DINING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Soon the boys enter the dining room and take seats.
There are a lot of dishes on the table, and also a plate ofcookies (the very ones Jane's mother used to make in thepast and which she shared with Thomas in their youth).
Jane, now 41-year-old, brings the main dish on the table andtakes a seat.
Soon Thomas enters and sits too. They all begin dining.
JANE So, how was school, Dyllan?
DYLLAN LAWSON An A, just as expected.
JANE Haha, that's our genius! Good job!
JOE LAWSONYou get some credit too - it was astory about you that won him thegrade.
JANE (laughs)
Come on! Having a good story isone, but retelling it well requiresa different kind of talent.
THOMAS I'll back her up on this one.
JOE LAWSONYou back her up on everything.
They all laugh.
THOMAS Well, not my fault, really. I'vegot no choice. When you getmarried, you'll understand - womenrule.
Dyllan laughs. Jane smiles and blushes.
THOMAS No, I'm serious.
(embraces Jane)She's the boss.
78.
Dyllan and Joe laugh again.
JANE So, Joe, how was your concert?
JOE LAWSONRocked it. We perform in a talentshow next month. A guy from thereattended the concert and said hewanted us in.
JANE Wow, amazing!
THOMAS Yeah. You'll take the stage with ablast.
JOE LAWSONI sure will.
HEAR the phone ring on the wall.
JANE Ah!
Jane stands up but Thomas stops her.
THOMAS I'll pick up, honey.
Thomas walks up to the phone and picks it up.
THOMAS Hello?Yeah, it's me.Yeah.Ouch... Ah... Yeah... Okay. Bethere in short.
He puts the phone down.
JANE (worried)
What is it?
THOMAS It was from the hospital. Have torun. A guy fell off a building andall. Severe injuries. They need mefor a surgery.
JANE Goodness! But you haven't eveneaten anything!
THOMAS No problem.
79.
Thomas hastily puts on his boots and a coat. He then grabssome cookies and puts some in his pocket and one in hismouth.
THOMAS This will suffise on the way. I'llhave a proper supper out. Might notreturn today.
JANE Okay...
The children and Jane see Thomas TO THE OUTER DOOR.
INT. THE LAWSON HOUSE, ENTRANCE CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS
THOMAS Bye kids. Be back tomorrow morning.
(to Joe)Joe, sorry pal, couldn't listen toyour music and all... I reallywanted to, but_
JOE LAWSONNo worries, dad, you'll do thatwhen you're back. Go do your work.You're saving lives.
THOMAS (smiles)
Now aren't you one hell of a son...Thanks, Joe.
DYLLAN LAWSON Goodbye dad! Do your best!
JANE Take care out there! Good luck!
THOMAS Thanks! See you!
Thomas runs DOWN THE STAIRS. Jane slowly closes the doorbehind him.
CAMERA SHOWS the wall oppositely to the outer door. ON THEWALL, a PAINTING is hung - a little girl giving a beggar boya glass of milk.
CLOSE ON the painting.
FADE OUT.
THE END
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