METRO 1497 - CHAPTER 7 THE PATH CHOSEN

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡis3J36BsYk

CHAPTER VII

— THE PATH CHOSEN —

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLOKVFSxYv

–INT. LODGE CORRIDOR — MORNING–

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKGUUmKkp6J

The corridor stretches long, lit by light from slit windows. The air carries a metallic cold. The old lodge stands perfectly firm, old stone— old men at play.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjD1i7KWj8u

Traeven's steps are measured.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLymJoAMOMU

Not slow.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJvwWgxceFF

Not hurried.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyCyK8WxqKv

Just… Inevitable.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMZwEm2Mmkb

His expression is unreadable, but something coils behind his eyes— calculation, memory, a covered storm, waiting for the right door to open.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6O26DV1r8e

Ahead, Theron's voice cuts through the stillness, low and controlled.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLdtxaODk8X

Phillip and Jeffrey stand with him, shoulders tense, nodding quickly at whatever command they've been given. Traeven doesn't announce himself. He simply arrives. Phillip notices first— posture stiff. Jeffrey follows— swallowing. Theron turns last, as if forced by gravity, rather than choice.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Sciubu6cT

For a moment the hallway corridor stands still.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBjh6HBYRNf

Traeven's presence shifts the air. A pressure, subtle, but undeniable. Phillip and Jeffrey don't hesitate the moment Traeven steps into orbit. They exchange looks— they slip away down the hall without a word.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD1WLu8EcA4

Footsteps fading fast.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcstLkBe0WC

Now it's just Traeven and Theron.

The corridor feels different with only the two of them in it. Quieter somehow, but definitely sharper. Like the air itself is listening. Theron straightens his coat, trying to reclaim the authority that just evaporated with his men.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4BTXK4Z7bU

Traeven's silence is scalpel. He speaks, not loud, just precise.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnUDBq0rQkm

Traeven:

"You know there will be a problem with the supply shift…"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxznvk4hIH2

Theron's eyes flicker.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWa7oA61g7

He hates when Traeven starts with facts.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3urFZmDW7

Theron:

"We've switched suppliers before, nothing's happened that wasn't handled, or eventually resolved."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5H7HM8jizN

Traeven steps forward, just to make the air tighten.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnXhcrDSft6

Traeven:

"This isn't the same."

(continues) "And Cat is on the other side of that line. You know what he is. You know how he'll respond."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIYt2YRUfP

A shadow crosses Theron's expression— memory, fear, denial.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW3kjEQ9NQG

Traeven:

"If he senses a disruption in the flow… If he thinks we're weakening our hold… He won't wait for diplomacy."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWlLSkgx70U

He lets the words hang, heavy and cold.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwBzrH06DyV

Traeven:

"He'll Strike."

"Fast."

"And without hesitation."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGKBFVhl9hz

Theron looks away, just for a heartbeat— but Traeven sees it.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYWTk8FL4aA

He sees everything.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡct502lmo0X

Theron:(undeniably defensive, not hiding well)

"We'll manage, as we have before."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjyHk8Ozxfs

Traeven's eyes narrow, not in anger— in disappointment.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDb7fLmq3rR

Traeven:

"You've contained him. Things will change."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMeVPFZR5zk

Theron stiffens, but Traeven doesn't give him room to recover.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSudprjdHOF

Traeven: (low, dangerous tone)

"If you cut the supply now, without preparing with reinforcements, you're not provoking negotiations. You're provoking a war."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2UvWHY0zs5

The corridor goes still.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9eIF3Kp2B

Theron tries to regain control of the conversation. Traeven watches him calm with dissecting intelligence— that makes Theron feel like he's being read, not spoken to.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjJkBqf5Pa

Theron exhales through his nose.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXX4ieZPqoO

Theron:

"My plan is simple, as I've already stated, we reinforce the old fortress before the first harvest. Double the watch. Triple rotations."

(A beat) "Our standing in The Providence will be protected."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqaAJVyZyrP

Traeven's expression doesn't change— but the silence that follows is damning.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS8o3wV2D32

Theron:

"It worked before and it will again. We've switched suppliers before-- in nothing were we unprepared. All was taken care of, always has, and always will.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2O6tuajJwC

Traeven steps a bit closer, voice low, surgical.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe8lsgMI8CD

Traeven:

"You're forgetting the variables."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpswRpiKGho

Theron's jaw tightens.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3onrtuCsBA

"Your supplies were late. Your men are stretched thin. And you don't know the exact number of bandits under Cat's control."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡocd3vhbQwU

Theron looks away slightly. Traeven sees it.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRjVbVEsNYO

"And who's to say word hasn't spread that you've already switched allegiances?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5c9WS4f5vH

(Beat)

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHlVwbC3gXX

"Cat is unpredictable. He's violent.

He's strategic when he wants to be.

And if he ever finds out that his brother is replacing his operation... It becomes personal."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLO7S81xTLF

Theron flinches at the truth.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtEbtrGY2Nj

"If he thinks you've weakened ties, or senses the shift...He won't wait for diplomacy, a meeting, a sit down.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbzAiON519u

Traeven steps past forcing Theron to turn.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSIZ4qp6JMy

"His men say that he's a Gargoyle..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT7PAwcn1hT

"I don't believe such fables...

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoDb4HDk7ik

"But what I do believe is that his men will attack us as a whole."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzv7436rbtJ

Theron doesn't answer. He doesn't defend his plan. He doesn't argue. He simply turns and resumes walking towards his destination-a silent retreat disguised as composure. Traeven follows at his master's side, hands clasped behind his back, posture straight, expression calm. But the truth is unmistakable. Traeven's ability to control a conversation. And Theron knows it.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVKrfKsdV2

Traeven:

"There's something you're unaware of."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp93vbTPML5

Theron's shoulders tense, but doesn't slow. Traeven continues, almost reflective.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSIkF5DzYPa

Traeven:(low tone)

"I've known Metro since he was a boy."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHx5Q9Fa8QX

That stops Theron for a heartbeat. Not enough to be obvious, but enough for Traeven to catch.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NopdhiSaj

"He's unpredictable, in a different way."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0nXUN0h0e2

They resume walking.

"Metro follows his heart, even if it puts his loved ones in danger, even if it'll cost him everything.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqiMn98JTD

Theron exhales sharply, unsure, threatened. Traeven continues with precision.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9hTILxz2B

"And men like that...Men who believe so strongly in something, they don't break the way you expect.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbh9JrTSOz

A long silence stretches between them.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡajF8xAK3YK

"He'll die for what he believes in."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmeaV3LVJUQ

Theron finally looks at him- fear and realization shifting in his gaze.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qWn6O15uz

"Just like his brother."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnV5tfSl2Fy

The words land heavy.

They stop at Traeven's lead. He holds his gaze, calm, unblinking.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDVEtSp3CX

"Cat and Metro are from the same coin, my lord.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBoN6CNRB5B

Just different sides...

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzBxCFzBI7k

They share the same mother...

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU362GcrG3g

but have different temperments.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzm0vwHb8Kn

They have different fathers...

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhCKMKKNXLP

But the same flame underneath."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKF5EDXUa42

Theron swallows, the truth settling cold in his chest.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwxAPWz53ij

Traeven turns his eyes forward again, hands still behind his back, walking again with the authority of a man who sees the future more clearly than anyone else in the lodge.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFNREAS7jOn

They walk in silence for several long steps.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY74nO8xzo3

Theron's boots echo harder now — with weight and not authority. Finally he exhales, a low, tired sound he didn't mean to let slip.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpAsbeA2b3K

Theron:

"Something's wrong with Veronica."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzSSunKKriI

Traeven doesn't react outwardly.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMZjcxSdBN

But inside, he sharpens.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIkgaCDuzJv

Theron keeps walking, voice dropping to a rare vulnerable register.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpoC3DXHRWB

Theron:

"She's distant.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLp4vJn1JQ2

Avoiding me.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWLPEtMWYA

All of this (beat) It's unlike her."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmpNFJzucv0

He gestures vaguely to the stone walls.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiL5UklCJ2g

"Something's happened at The Fortress...

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbvm47XFpjU

I know it.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaNgq7Au9wQ

There's a reason she doesn't want to go."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFlyPldXetV

Traeven's eyes narrow — not in judgement, but in calculation.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaYI4klJZRl

"I was going to prepare a marriage."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4K8VCr3tS

Traeven's stomach turns, jaw tightens, a cringe he buries instantly behind a neutral expression.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGacIXfYOgr

He keeps his posture perfect, hands behind his back.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXt4C7BIAPT

Theron continues, oblivious to the storm he just stirred.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSgM6DeFD6O

"It would solidify partnerships."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡioD17Uvn7G

"Tie the crop to my bloodline."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡet77HDVt7a

"Securing our village's future."

(Theron gazes in the distance)

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8LSvG98SpZ

Traeven responds, smooth, controlled.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEhpzNKU4Qy

Traeven:

"A business arrangement then."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMMO3EUxIbY

Theron nods, but his eyes possess something darker, a premonition he can't shake.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnC9m2dln3i

Theron:

"Your words, they ring true. I've had worries of retaliation, even though I don't want to admit it"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfumEXe7P6o

Traeven lets the silence sit.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8XHDHJHcVf

Theron fills it.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3byyKiwYY

"If Veronica chooses to head back to The Whispering Estates, I want you to watch over the situation."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVi6iRRdX7v

Traeven's eyes sharpen — an open door he's been waiting for.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZTEaHaDxQS

"Get to the bottom of everything for me; I need to know what happened with my daughter. I need clarity, that this operation is still under my control."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTPZOOOVyKi

Traeven's lips curl into the faintest smile —

subtle, respectful, but unmistakably satisfied.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ojOsst9db

Theron stops and looks at Traeven.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDD4inlZVyW

"So, Traeven, my trusted advisor — is this doable?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ97deVSMVWB

He inclines his head, voice soft and obedient on the surface — but carrying the quiet triumph of a man who just gained the board.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡESrEH3Bexs

Traeven:

"Of course, my lord."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt3nVyyLLQt

"I'll see to everything personally."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeXZPuRcM0E

Theron: (nods, satisfied)

"Good."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyLtdZqd8f

Theron breaks and walks away, unaware of the shift he just allowed. Traeven sits still, hands behind his back, left alone in the corridor hallway.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLAEFO9qBi

Scene fades black -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAT7mFW89dZ

change scene -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Xh6n4MzMi

-LILLY'S HUT- GRASSLANDS- MORNING-

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk6za8niIln

Pale morning light spills through the window, cool and unfiltered. Steam rises from a small pot on the hearth. The air is crisp, the quiet kind of stillness that makes every word feel sharper.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp9VMlV36qX

Rose stands near the table, hands damp from rinsing fresh herbs. The morning chill clings to her skin. Lilly stands next to her, by the fire, chopping vegetables, her posture firm with cold light.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1QZFyOaUTg

Lilly:

"I don't want you going back to that castle."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq6dbiDva5y

Rose stops mid-movement.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYo25UBAjOK

Rose:

"Why?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGS7m8atVl9

Lilly: (voice low, steady, eyes worried)

"That boy — Metro — he seems kind I see that. But he's tied to Theron. To soldiers. To danger that doesn't belong to us."

(A beat)

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBbOCnowcov

"I won't have you near that army."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4fyw4M6MHP

Rose doesn't turn. The pot on the hearth pops slowly, the only sound in the room.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLqjlr2ARI

"You've never seen what war turns good boys into..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡemoUpFxrmR

She steps forward, her shadow stretching long across the floor.

"You see him, I know you do. But you don't see the army behind him — the orders he'll follow, the men he'll fight, the things he'll be asked to ignore."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBuLezArjwx

Her voice tightens, fear threading through the calm.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMwkcKV16wy

"And if those men ever come looking for him... where do you think they'll look... They'll come here."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6s1JDKJIOw

The final truth, heavy in the morning air.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe6lBBc9ZwT

"He doesn't understand the cost of his actions. That ignorance is dangerous."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZKQdBwmQK4

Rose turns finally, her voice soft but unwavering.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeNcqfCs0xz

Rose:

"He's my friend."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzdoXQd6vh9

Lilly exhales with sharp worry.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmPkgVydZkB

Lilly:

"And that's what scares me. He doesn't know he's putting his friends in terrible danger. He's unaware of what he's a part of..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡybu8Fz8Zmn

Lilly's face hardens in a fearful, protective way.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZHF3SolcXc

"I'm headed to the market. Get some fish by the spring. I'll be back this afternoon."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDAt2BRWQt

ROSE & LILLY'S HUT - GRASSLANDS -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcJ3NE7GDse

BEFORE NOON -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM9YWKsx3UL

Sally slows as Metro rides into the clearing. The hut sits still in the bright midday light, still and open, as if waiting for someone who hasn't come home.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5d5NBNfJR2

Metro dismounts, keeping one hand on Sally's saddle. He walks to the doorway and pushes the beads aside.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkUEe2NbZx

Metro:

"Rose...?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsHZdl4qMJE

Nothing.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSwnjtBkTAN

The hearth is cold.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBOgitJtZdY

The table is clean.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7FUMxQ95Qq

The room feels pressed still, like someone stepped out only moments ago.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsCmjDvwvHx

Metro stands, fingers tightening on the saddle strap. He looks around once, slow, taking in the emptiness — The silent moment stretches.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf1hFOPmuxS

He doesn't move. He just breathes, eyes fixed on the space where she should be.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWTnRjGMXVa

Then something in him shifts.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6I4FDClVGr

He turns, grabs the saddle horn, and swings onto Sally in one swooped motion.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeYw3RoWDMk

Metro:

"Ya!"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8LZ0m3zIcf

She bolts forward, carrying him back into the bright noon light. Metro leaning into the ride with dramatic urgency.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDTGdRQUGfg

The hut stays behind, waiting.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ13LxPfMCq8

Scene Fades -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV10sH7ettU

- SPRING CREEK - GRASSLANDS -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhDhME0Ssdf

NOON -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCLCCD4oqCt

The spring lies quiet under the bright midday sun, water moving in slow, clear ripples. The air is warm here, softer than the rest of the forest.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRpXHInqKKU

Rose kneels by the edge, gathering water in a small clay bowl. Her hair falls forward as she works, catching sunlight, she moves calmly, but there is a stillness in her eyes — like her thoughts are somewhere else entirely.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbm8vqab1j0

A breeze shifts the leaves above her.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ425dZb5HOQ

She pauses.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5r5r4AxbCO

She looks up.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNhhDarjQgo

For a moment she just listens — to the water, to the trees, to the wind.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGW4dMrGnNm

She sets the bowl aside gently.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDU4p2FP9SN

Glancing toward the path leading back to the hut.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfMf02l11xd

A small breath escapes.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpknKei0XEt

Not worry.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡViO41QtI6e

Not frustration.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfw0xsoxtC
9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZD6MKdlmJT

just, waiting.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUe0FsZ4eou

The sunlight shines a glinted reflection off the water moving beside her. She dips her fingers into it, letting the ripple spread outward.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡidjm8eSCzN

Her posture straightens.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡykWf6m8oT3

Someone or something is riding towards her.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsMtvWcLDl7

She lifts her head.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHWHtgnMuAI

Her eyes soften.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9eeyJyHoG

The forest holds its peace.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6TTOSdGEVD

A faint rhythm breaks the quiet.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzVgw6jKZHf

Hooves.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡacJbSumkMD

Steady.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYeXYLlf9CD

Familiar.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNWnk16I735

Growing closer.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7hd48fLql

She turns toward the trees, just as Sally steps into the clearing. The light catches the white patch and black coat.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7YbWbK1dm

Metro sits tall in the saddle, breath a little uneven from the ride, eyes searching the space.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOPNYDqgJ3

For a moment, neither of them moves.

Rose sits there at the water's edge, staring at Metro and Sally in disbelief — like she wasn't expecting him, like she isn't sure she's ready for whatever she's feeling.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡViHF92x6nl

Metro spots her.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgTjQjBaNjK

His face lifts, surprised and relieved all at once.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ai5q2VZto

Metro:

"O- hey, Rose! I've been looking for you!"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPssDabPmsO

Sally responds to his voice, breaking into a gallop towards her. As they close the distance, Metro pulls gently on the reins, slowing her to a calm trot.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFU8nuDAaIy

He swings off Sally in one enthusiastic motion, boots hitting the ground with a soft thud.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsGDWfsrmXl

He steps towards Rose, a little breathless, a little too happy to see her.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8snIMW6iGb

They sit close to water, under a large willow tree.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwYGDAyrf1E

The noon light bounces off of them softly.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMSIc44sji

Rose finally speaks.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡucCJWIQ6sR

Rose:

"Hey..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5nzdwgSFla

Metro:

"Hey, I'm glad I found you, what are you doing out here?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bmcwCkXxZ

Rose:

"Fishing, for my mother."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVQFW8G9Tm2

Metro:

"Oh... and how's she doing?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8fAGYazMTZ

Rose: (pauses, eyes lowered)

"She's fine."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqC22GfZhmM

(long beat)

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOaNI7RhzS

Metro: (nods slowly)

"... why'd you leave the castle without saying goodbye?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZVjbIeHyVn

Rose: (takes a long breath)

"my mother thinks it's dangerous."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtSp0giMYuy

Metro: (cranks his neck)

"Really? The whole place is swarming with guards."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgfEijkgyAH

Rose:

"That's what she's afraid of, me getting hurt..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlot95TRIYo

(A beat)

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcjpuuWqc36

"She doesn't want me to see you anymore."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡREXXNrfsTX

Metro freezes.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEpJf2POdiz

It hits him like a ton of bricks.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA5ourr7iRX

A long silence settles between them.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr1b5GYDf64

He finally speaks.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBn8f79pTae

Metro: (voice low)

"Why did you offer to help me and Blake?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG44xih4hZQ

Rose: (softer expression, smiling)

"Because I knew I could trust you."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG9XATG1mCT

Metro looks at her, confused but hopeful.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe6tmPTI8ol

"How? we were complete strangers."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh4BLsQpSwG

Rose: (a small laugh escapes)

"Well, when you and Blake held each other, and were screaming for your lives, I knew right then there, that you weren't a threat."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFTqTks0kGN

Metro stares at her stunned, then looks away embarrassed, a slow smile forming, despite himself.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9dMztsI4ll

He straightens, trying to recover his dignity.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcutmhE58N

Metro:

"I wasn't that scared."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7GujkFXKN8

Rose:

"Yes, you were. You act tough, but I can tell — you're super soft on the inside."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxRpxuOr7ei

Metro jolts slightly, even while sitting.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5LscVzArqL

Metro:

"And what's that supposed to mean!?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJyl6fhvDTl

Rose's smile brightens, warm and glowing — something in the air shifts between them.

Then she grows serious.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnB8DM2TUls

Rose:

"What's going on between you and Veronica?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMtYCNiLL7W

The warmth pauses.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlY7KgEhRni

The air thickens slightly.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtIIRqLUP4L

Rose watches him carefully, waiting.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXRYjLUB9dB

Metro:

"There's nothing going on between us...."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN5rc3QCLHU

Rose doesn't look convinced.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1FNEF25kl0

Rose:

"It didn't seem like that... I know it's none of my business, but when I saw her striking you, crying, screaming…

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHeli18DSbO

(longbeat)

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2iEUQlRaG7

‘It left me with a bad feeling."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7tlkq3eDWi

Metro expression darkens.

He turns his gaze to the water, watching the ripples of the creek instead of her.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQiR1YIikC

Metro:

"Veronica and I have been friends for some time. She robbed me once — said it was to protect me. That's what lined me up with Theron. I never knew she would explode on me like that."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQX0B1cd25p

Rose's eyes sharpen, dense and focused on him.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFSQnv1IJ2n

Rose: (A beat)

"Do you love her?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqG7aJ1dI6

Metro turns instantly, locking eyes with her.

His face grows stern, steady.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl70j59WgC7

Metro: (A long pause)

"Yes, I do. As a friend. As a sister."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZNKbYgc0lG

He breathes slowly, the truth settling between them.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIc1la6VX2

"I care for her like an older brother would a spoiled sibling...I never wanted it to turn out like this. I just wanted..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOFUryL1HoD

He stops.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH3TyM2o4Zp

Rose is already reading him deeply, clearly.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6owk7A9eOi

Rose: (Another quiet moment.)

"I believe you..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOPjmcmaPv

The air shifts.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW1GJemxSwg

~ softens ~

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHkdVzec9R

Deepens —

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡohPmFlBicY

Metro: (looking in her vicinity)

"... You know

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzBjbfFIcUC

...this morning

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVCeiltkUX

when I woke up..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Gp48GZsHE

(looks directly at her)

"... all I could think about was you."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGD9RpXoFW

Rose lifts her eyes to him — slowly, deeply, steadily. The look pulls Metro's energy into hers, locking them together.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYWRmLWgigS

"I may never be able to see you again. After this... your mother... she loves you."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcn4Skt5Q7l

His eyes water / the truth cracking through him.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUVFmTIwS3

"The moment I looked at you...

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNgqHMMKDxH

I knew..."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsTJTmGKKj5

Rose eyes deepen, trance like — drawn into him.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzb9R6x8HwP

(A beat)

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7hiD8Ug08G

"... that I loved you."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeUc1iKzUiy

Rose looks away, crushed by a wave of emotion — then snaps back quickly, faithfully, courageously staring straight into Metro's soul.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTVsGPyBDk

Metro never breaks.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1t6QSl5mM

Metro:

"Do you love me...?"

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCmPmkrJcc7

A single tear slips down his cheek.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqrVUa3hrIu

Rose's eyes water.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeISeehBu8k

Then softly —

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmhItDWFDOy

Rose:

"Yes."

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡojnqsxWFta

Metro catches his breath.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVlREWTdtO

Silence.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu4rBLFOhNT

Purity.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdK6Va5I9Cr

Stillness.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ17sXPd9Wpv

Rose waits for him.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gSrlqix3U

Metro leans in, slow.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyObRe1T03k

A breeze lifts Rose's hair, brushing it across his face.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqzTPZZbAZ0

She moves forward ever so slightly,

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj5zVVOWm8o

Committing —

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQVB3YLSsT

They're eye to eye.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAFkGRKUSWU

Lips nearly touching.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfPIQLobU5c

Metro closes his eyes.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDyNvrMt8Am

Rose closes hers.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC2GYpig2g6

The first kiss.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9q0tQUUBKk

Soft.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMza95863N9

Pure.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzUi0U8txxM

True.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSs5PTwfaK0

They part.

(A powerful, loving magic in the air)

Eyes open gently.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1O1YQEJp4S

The world stands still.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB2axcchICl

Then —Sally stomps the ground.

“THOMP!”

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd4U7wFJnI0

A hard thud.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfsfNlIElxG

The sound cracking through the quiet like a warning shot.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBoXIxe0RfE

Sally: (aggressive scoff)

“BAM!”

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvILfqISd6b

(another stamp)

She snorts, loud and offended, tossing her head with full dramatic authority — the kind of side-eye only she can muster in delivery.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTopmJSzerp

Metro startles slightly and Rose jumps a bit, taken aback. Sally kicks dust backwards, peering at them, as if saying

("Alright, enough.")

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ABk2h4wVK

The spell breaks — not shattered, just grounded.

Metro smiles and stands lifting Rose. Their cheeks are warm. Their eyes are soft.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBqxfGcTckk

Their hearts are still racing.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡln70lX2UNQ

Sally stands there, unwavered, judging them like a protective aunt who's seen too much.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmfzCnb53sC

scene fades -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAW8nqhMOZ

switch scenes -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4AIditJTdq

-LILLY & ROSE'S HUT - GRASSLANDS -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAr6cQh82ss

AFTERNOON-

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9fmrMyPkW5

A red cardinal sits on a tall forest treetop, perched. It looks down over the clearing.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKk1TiaITNS

Far beneath the canopy, three tiny figures move across the landscape.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsIRP0psDjN

Metro is seen as a small dark figure leaning forward with purpose. Rose is a soft shape behind him, her dress catching the last gold of the sun. Sally is sleek, a powerful black form underneath them, even from a distance her white marking between her eyes, forms a faint glimmer.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6SIG17NJS2

From the heights, they look like tiny figures, sliding across the earth, into the forest.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy8r4JbL5Ky

- LILLY'S HUT -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4nkaqF3c3O

SUNDOWN - GRASSLANDS -

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ6lJkSQGTH

A crow sits in a distant treetop, perched, cawking. It watches Lilly come home on Curtis, purse strapped over her shoulder.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0WqC8KXaU

Inside the hut feels wrong, the moment she steps inside — a silent, empty, abandon.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSGE2szNCtr

She steps back out to see fresh horse tracks in the dirt leading south towards the Whispering Forest.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ38B9bmsuJJ

Her face tightens.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25AwgzMEkP

She steps toward the forest.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2nzzKr9h1n

Malice and terror moved into her expression.

9Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtUuTorchE8

Scene fades black-

ns216.73.216.23da2

Reading Theme:

Font Size:

Line Spacing:

Paragraph Spacing:

Load the next issue automatically