Grand Unification Day (Patreon)

Published:

2024-01-27 16:21:43

Imported:

2026-06

Content

Hello everyone. I know it's been very slow with Chapter 4's release and I apologize for that. I wanted to put out one chapter per month, but that seems like a pipe dream...I can't force anyone to work more, or work at all, if they don't want to or don't have the time for my project. But I feel like I kind of owe you all something, even if this page is mainly for donations.

So I'm going to give you a short story in full. This was meant to be a theater play, but I adapted it to the furry world and to Light My Way. It has something about it that is a little spoiler for the future. See if you can figure out what exactly it is.

I planned on having this as a Christmas release, but I could never find someone who would be willing to illustrate it at a reasonable price. I can't afford to put more money into a separate project so soon.

Here's the text. It's called: Grand Unification Day. I hope you like it.

The text is copy pasted from a txt file I have so it's filled with empty spaces for some reason. It would take a considerable amount of time to format this properly, so bear with me here (pun intended).

Also, note that this is a drama and it's NOT edited yet for proper visual novel form. It's about 12500 words. Happy reading!

A bear waits in the parking lot of a supermarket. He is

standing on his car, looking at his phone and tapping it in

frustration from time to time.

BRAD

These youngens...Can't count on 'em for nothing! No punctuality, no responsibility for

one's own actions...Bah!

A fawn around 20 years old approaches the car in a hurry.

She's dressed snuggly with a thick jacket and jeans.

BRAD looks at her and then at his phone trying to

distinguish if it's the same folk.

CAMILLE

Good evening...excuse me, sir? Have you seen by chance a blue Fulmer around? I needed to meet...

BRAD

Are you with Ride2gether?

CAMILLE

Yes, I am. I am looking for a bear with a blue Fulmer who is driving to Porthas today...

BRAD

Well I wrote in the app 16:30 right here in this parking lot. What's the time?

CAMILLE

16:43

BRAD

Are we making a mockery of my time then? What kind of attitude is this?

CAMILLE

I was looking for a blue Fulmer...like it wrote in the app. I didn't see anyone who fit that

description so I looked around perhaps I mistook the meeting place...

Brad puts his phone in his pocket, his voice softer, smoothing his beard every few

seconds.

BRAD

Well I'm the driver from the photo in the app. I can't be that hard to miss. This is my

work car...The Fulmer is in the repair shop and I didn't get to change the car picture in

this forsaken phone...So much hassle for one picture...But I can assure you this drives

just as good as the Fulmer, even better I'd say! Hasn't let me down yet!

CAMILLE

Yes...sure...So you're driving to Porthas, right?

BRAD

Yup. Porthas. City of a million hats!

Brad starts laughing, while the girl takes out her phone

and taps at it seemingly aimlessly to avoid the

awkwardness that's starting to settle. A wolf jogs

towards the two. He's dressed in a suit, has an expensive

watch on his arm and a new generation phone in one paw.

Right before he reaches the bear and fawn he turns around

removing a ring from one of his fingers. He places it

hurriedly in one of the inner pockets of his overcoat.

TANNER

Evening! Sir? Miss? Have you seen by chance a blue Fulmer anywhere around here?

BRAD

I'm with the blue Fulmer...I was just explaining to the young lady here that the Fulmer is

in the workshop right now and I had issues with this blasted app to change the picture...I

have my work car with me.

The bear winks at the fawn trying to get her to

acknowledge his little issue, instead she shifts on her

hooves looking away from him slightly worried now with

what the bear is trying to get at.

TANNER

Yeah, so what? Didn't you know that you wouldn't be driving with the Fulmer when you

got here? The add on Ride2gether stated that you're coming from Porthas and driving

back there tonight. With a Fulmer...If I knew this would happen...

BRAD

If you knew what? Listen here...This is the car I got and it's the one I'll be using to get

back. If you don't want to join, I won't force ya. I'm going either way. Miss, do you

have a problem with the car?

CAMILLE

No...it's fine. I need to get to Porthas today...

TANNER

Fine, fine...Whatever...I need to get there too, so...

BRAD

Again. You don't have to drive with me if you don't want to. Take the train.

TANNER

Oh be real. Let's get a move on, I don't have time to waste...

Brad grumbles under his beard, checking his phone again.

BRAD

We have one more passenger we need to wait for. He wrote me he's running late cause of

something...I don't know. But he said he'll be here.

The wolf lights up a cigarette, dialing a number on his

phone, while stepping away from the car. He starts

talking to some friend of his about the entire ordeal with

the wrong car and waiting on another mystery passenger.

The fawn takes her luggage to the back of the car waving

to the bear to open the trunk.

BRAD

It's a bit full there...

CAMILLE

Are you serious right now? I wrote I have luggage with me and you said it's fine that

there's space. Or was this also with the Fulmer?

BRAD

I only said it's a bit full there...No need to get so riled up...

The bear opens the trunk and moves some things around

trying to make space.

TANNER

Is the last passenger coming or what? How long is the drive anyway? I figure about 5

hours if we drive at a decent speed...

BRAD

We'll be on time. Don't you worry yourself friend...Ah! The guy just wrote me that he

won't make it. For the love of the...Why couldn't he say this earlier? I would have had

time to find someone else...Some folk...Alright. So let's handle the payment. We're

splitting everything by 3 then.

CAMILLE

Wait a minute...What do you mean we're splitting by 3? Why do I have to pay more

because that guy is a no-show?

TANNER

The young lady is right. We have nothing to do with him not driving with us. That's not

our problem. We'll pay the amount you put up in the add. I'm not paying more because

of someone else's issues. I work hard for my money.

BRAD

All good...All good. It's fine as it was in the app. Don't worry yourselves, alright? On

the bright side, you can put your luggage on the back seat now, right miss?

CAMILLE

My name's Camille.

BRAD

I'm Dozer.

CAMILLE

Sorry, what?! In the ad it wrote Brad. What's going on here? Are you one of those

grifters who have nothing better to do on Grand Unification Day?

Brad's voice shifts to a calm soothe, realizing the

differences between his ad and reality are starting to

scare Camille.

BRAD

No, no! My name is Brad, like you saw on the app, but everyone calls me Dozer. Like

my mom used to call me back in the day...and how my wife calls me now.

If I wanted to swindle anyone I wouldn't be on Ride2gether...there are other ways...that

other folk might try to harm others...But that's not the case here, may the Furred One

bless us! What can I say...I'm sorry it's not the car from the add...You know...times are

rough...I'm just a parcel delivery employee so I make a bit of money on the side when I

use the company car...But I can assure you I've never had complaints from no one in my

entire life. You can check the app yourselves and see my reviews...Hope that clears up

any confusions you might have...

Camille scrolls through Brad's reviews which are all 5

stars. She nods at him moving towards the car door

although still suspicious of this constant back and forth.

TANNER

I'm Tanner by the way, since you all asked...So we're heading out or what?

BRAD

It's late as it is. If everything's alright, we can get going.

Camille gets in the backseat with her luggage by her side,

while Tanner sits shotgun. The fawn takes her phone out

and makes a call.

CAMILLE

Hi! Mom? Yes. We just left. I'll be home in a few hours. No, it's not snowing here, but

it's starting to rain. I'm with some parcel delivery car. No, not those big vans. It's a

smaller one. Yes...I'll get out where we discussed, near the train station. Yes mom,

everything's fine, don't worry...Sure you can pick me up. Mom, really! It's fine. If it

makes you feel better yes. Alright. Love you! See you soon. Bye!

After a few minutes of silence Brad turns on the radio,

folk music blaring loudly. He fumbles with the volume,

managing to turn it down.

TANNER

I'd rather go without this...

BRAD

Oh come on. You young ones need to get in touch with some of our traditional music! It'll

do you both some good.

CAMILLE

I actually don't like it either...If it's not too much to ask, could you please put on

something else or turn it off?

Brad turns off the radio, unhappy with his gloomy

passengers.

TANNER

I see you're still using a CD player...That's some ancient tech...

BRAD

I got one of those...wireless things connected with my phone and all, but they're in the

Fulmer...Cheap too! Got it on Trade-E-Z. It's got a lotta bang in it! Love it. I don't have

that in the work car though...sorry about that. Maybe I'll get one if I find another good

deal...

TANNER

What did you say your job is?

BRAD

Parcel delivery driver. I used to drive a truck years ago...but I didn't want to go through

so many cities, every week...sleeping in parking lots...A trucker's life ain't easy...And

there sure are loads of crazy folk out there...If you only knew the stories...Anyway. I

don't have this new age music you youngens like, so how about we get to know each

other a bit til Porthas. We're all going that way anyway right? What's your business there

miss?

CAMILLE

You can call me Camille.

BRAD

Then you can also call me Dozer...or Brad. Whichever you prefer, just don't call me sir or

mister...cause I ain't your boss or some teacher or anything to make me feel older than I

am.

CAMILLE

Alright...Brad. I'm going home for Grand Unification Day. To spend it with my mom.

BRAD

So you're from Porthas. Neat...That's how Grand Unification Day should be spent, with

the family! I'm a family guy myself, got two kids. And how about you...Tanner was it?

What takes you to Porthas on this blessed day?

TANNER

Me? I'm...visiting an acquaintance. I finally have some days off work and here I am.

Tanner looks out the window. Brad notices the wolf

touching his finger where his ring used to be.

BRAD

Now? You're visiting a friend today of all days? Shouldn't you be home with your

family?

TANNER

I'm not married. At my age? Hah! I've got more than enough time for that. How about

you? You're on the job right now or why are you in Caliginous?

BRAD

I've got a son here. I figured I'd bring him some food from back home...made by his mom.

You know how it is. Gotta keep the kid healthy!

TANNER

So your wife didn't want to visit or...?

BRAD

She's sick...Nothing serious, but she can't handle long trips anymore. It's best if she

stays home and looks after her health.

CAMILLE

Sorry to hear about that. My mom also has some health issues...Your generation with

those diets...I don't mean to sound rude, but they caught up to all of you in the end...

BRAD

Well, we didn't have the luxury like you have now. We ate what was available at the

time...To preserve the Unification. We did our part...But I sometimes think she could also

be a bit more active, you know? My wife just sits around and watches those darn

telenovelas all day long...

TANNER

Maybe she would be more active, if she'd have a specific reason to be, you know?

BRAD

You're a bit of a cheeky one aren't ya?

TANNER

Was just joking big fella. Don't take it so seriously.

BRAD

I don't really feel like that's the kind of jokes you should be making without knowing

who you're dealing with.

CAMILLE

Oh come on Brad. It was just a joke. Right Mr. Tanner?

TANNER

If you can call him Brad, you can also call me Tanner.

CAMILLE

Ok...sorry...Tanner.

TANNER

At your age you still have enough in the tank. Why are you getting upset over this? It's

not like you aren't doing anything anymore right?

BRAD

In my times, we wouldn't talk about something like this so easily...especially with

strangers.

TANNER

Ah, right...It's a new age now though. The subject isn't as taboo as it used to be. You're

also talking to some strangers about it who you might never meet again anyway. Where's

the harm in that?

BRAD

And what if you're driving to Caliginous or to Porthas and you book me again?

TANNER

Maybe I won't drive with you then...

BRAD

Why wouldn't you? I didn't do nothing to you!

TANNER

Well, you just said...Never mind... I only meant that there's nothing to be ashamed of

when talking about such stuff anymore. I doubt we have any friends in common if you

think word will get out about your...activities.

BRAD

Maybe not with you, but with the missus here, sorry...Camille, it could be...She's close

to my daughter's age. Maybe I know her parents. Or relatives...In Porthas everyone

knows everyone...it's not that of a big city. And how she said with the eating habits we

had. We used to grill a lot with the neighbors back then. Especially at the Lakes. I might

have drank with her dad once, who knows...

Camille clutches her phone in her paws, jumping at the

mention of the Lakes.

CAMILLE

The Lakes? What lakes?

BRAD

In Porthas...The Lakes on the south side...

CAMILLE

What the...? How did this topic come about?

TANNER

What's these lakes you're both talking about?

CAMILLE

Some nonsense...It was a place in Porthas. The Lakes we used to call them. Somewhere

behind a fire department training facility. When I was a kid, my family used to go there at

the end of the week. You would meet neighbors or new folk, loads from everywhere from

the city. We played in the water, others fished or made makeshift swords from tree

branches that were cut down for fire wood. It was nice sometimes...But nobody took care

of anything. No warning sings for the depth of the lakes, no guards, nothing. Everyone

grilling, bellies in the sun, drinking...Not a care in the world. I know a few kids actually

drowned there...Who knows how many suffered the same fate...or worse....Another time

long gone thankfully.

BRAD

Other times yes...

Silence sets in the car. The nostalgia on Brad's face

contrasts the troubled look Camille has, who's now

digging in her phone to find a distraction from what she

just talked about. Tanner starts caressing his ring finger

again looking out the window lost in thought. Rain starts

pouring outside.

BRAD

It would have been better if it snowed, not rained...

TANNER

Better rain than snow on the road though. Isn't that how it goes?

BRAD

Maybe if it wouldn't be so cold outside right now. If it gets any colder we'll have icy

roads ahead of us, then we'll slow down to a crawl.

TANNER

And snow? Isn't it just as bad? If we'll stick to the highway then there's nothing to

worry about anyway. There's too many cars on the road. There's no time for ice to

form...

BRAD

You've got the experience to back that up son? I'll have you know I've wandered these

roads for decades and you're telling me how rain works in cold weather? You have no idea

how many times I had to sleep on the side of the road over night because of hazardous

conditions.

TANNER

We'll be in Porthas in no time. How long anyway?

BRAD

We barely started...You'll see once we pass Aurora, it's only going to get colder and we'll

get icy roads...

TANNER

Alright, alright. If you say so. There's nothing we can do about it anyway. It is what it is.

BRAD

Such are these times. The weather's not as good...The Furred One might not be pleased

with us today...Look. A gas station. I'll pull in so I can fill up the tank and go the toilet

real quick.

TANNER

I'll go buy myself some cigarettes. Do I have time to smoke one?

BRAD

Not in the gas station. Go farther away at least...

TANNER

I'm not insane if that's what you're implying...

CAMILLE

Can I have a cigarette as well?

TANNER

You smoke?

CAMILLE

Occasionally.

BRAD

Bah! Nonsense! You should both quit! You talk about our eating habits and you two put

that garbage in your lungs...

CAMILLE

I said I only smoke occasionally...so...

BRAD

Don't worry. I won't tell your dad.

CAMILLE

Daddy is not among us anymore...He passed away a few years ago...

BRAD

My condolences...It's...Not good.

Tanner doesn't say anything, still looking slightly dazed

out the window. Brad parks the car and everyone gets

out. Camille waits for Tanner to buy some cigarettes then

they head away from the gas station for a smoke.

CAMILLE

Grandad here's a bit odd.

TANNER

Yeah. I don't know what his problem is.

CAMILLE

Do you really think he's got a Fulmer?

TANNER

Could be, but I'm not sure...From what I know you get checked on these ride sharing

apps. You need to provide some actual data about your car, engine number or some real

stuff. But I'm not sure like I said. Maybe he's got a friend with a Fulmer and he probably

drives this junk. We got gamed a little, but whatever. You saw how he wanted to split the

gas money in 3? Cheap as they come.

CAMILLE

I know, but...maybe he actually has issues with his car...It could be in the workshop for

repairs.

TANNER

So he's got a Fulmer and he's desperate to split the ride 3 ways instead of four?

They both take a puff looking at the run down car.

CAMILLE

Meh...I've seen worse in better places. But yeah...at first I didn't want to go when I saw

this trash car. I mean, who does stuff like this? But then you showed up and I was

like...maybe it's ok. My mom always told me: "Careful who you keep in your

company"...

TANNER

Words to live by. You never know who you encounter even more so on these apps. I saw

that you're a bit...tense around him.

CAMILLE

It passed. I figured we're 4 in the car, with a Fulmer, everything seemed legit. Easy drive

is what I was thinking.

TANNER

I mean, even this relic drives good enough though. We'll be in Porthas in no time. Then

you'll be done with the old timer. He's weird anyway, talking about your parents and

those Lakes...

CAMILLE

I guess he just wants to make conversation...but either way, don't leave me alone with

him!

They both laugh, although a bit awkwardly in the end.

TANNER

Can you stay in front for a bit? I really need to make a phone call and I think it's best if I

stay in the back seat so I can finish this up. Work stuff...

CAMILLE

Are you for real?

TANNER

He can't be that stupid to try anything while I'm in the car...

CAMILLE

Yeah, I guess you're right...

They both see Brad waving at them to come back to the

car.

BRAD

Did ya both get enough ash in?

CAMILLE

Yes. We chain-smoked three.

TANNER

Let's head out...

They get in the car, Tanner switching places with Camille.

BRAD

Was I bothering you Tanner here in the front?

TANNER

I have to make a phone call so I figured it's best if Camille stays in front so you can have

a talk while I sort out my work stuff...It could take a while.

Tanner pulls out his phone and dials while talking to

them.

TANNER

Hello? Yeah. I'm on the way yeah. With the ride share...

Tanner start talking about unresolved files, overtime and

other issues.

BRAD

So where do you live in Porthas? I could just drop you off there if it's easier for you.

CAMILLE

I live on the north side, but I prefer getting where we agreed since my mom will pick me

up...

BRAD

How old is your mom? Maybe I know here from somewhere...

CAMILLE

57 this year...Why are you asking?

BRAD

Maybe we were colleagues in high school is all...

CAMILLE

It's possible...

BRAD

What's her name?

CAMILLE

Helen. But most call her Lena.

BRAD

And she always lived in north of Porthas?

CAMILLE

Yeah. Before my parents had me they used to live closer to the Lakes...

BRAD

Maybe I know her...But I can't seem to recall anyone going by Lena. Is she...you know...

CAMILLE

Fat? No. She never was more plump.

BRAD

I didn't want to be that direct...It's not becoming of a person of my age to show so little

tact...

CAMILLE

But how old are you then? You said you might have been colleagues with my mom. So

that would make you...

BRAD

Almost 57 as well Just a few weeks away.

CAMILLE

Oh! A really early happy birthday to you then!

BRAD

Thanks! How about you?

CAMILLE

I'm 23. Last year of college.

BRAD

Ah to be young again! A whole life time to see the world, meet folk of every kind...What

do you study? My daughter's going to be an engineer. She always liked math for some

reason. No idea where she gets it from. Neither me nor my wife have anything to do with

math.

CAMILLE

Maybe when she was a cub she saw something or read something about math and really

liked it. When I was a kid we had a neighbor with a motorcycle. My brother befriended

him and since then he's always been a big fan of motorcycles. He had a few accidents as

well soon after. Everyone is influenced differently based on their childhood experiences.

Camille shifts nervously in her chair holding the seat belt

tighter.

BRAD

You are completely right. I've never imagined I'd be a truck driver. When I was growing

up I wanted to play football. All day, every day. I think I was good. At least good enough

for my school. But in my times jobs were scarce and we needed money at home, so I got

to working as a truck driver. My brothers were also working full time and dropped out of

school. I started going on longer rides and the money got better, so I kept at it. I've been

to so many cities...so many rest stops...but there's no place like home.

TANNER

I don't know when I'll be back...Maybe in a few days. I know love. It's just a little while.

Once I'm done with my job I'll be back right away. You can handle everything without

me for a couple of days, right?

CAMILLE

There's no place like home...I guess not. But we keep voting to get the crooks out so that

the thieves can take their place in thhis home of ours...

BRAD

That's quite the statement! Really funny but also very real. It's like this country has

something, I dunno, painful inside. Like it never got over something that happened a long

time ago. And although we had The Grand Unification, it's like there's still something

lingering beneath all that. The Furred One might have turned a blind eye towards us in

these times...We have temples around every corner, but they don't feel like they have

what we all might need right now.

CAMILLE

I didn't expect you to criticize the current situation. Folk of your age usually tend to

fully support the Cardinal ways...

BRAD

Well I didn't really say that I'm against anything either...To each his own! I have nothing

against those who donate to the Cardinals...not that they'd need more...I'll send a prayer

to the Furred One from time to time, especially when my daughter has exams. But I

sometimes wish she'd fail some of them so that she doesn't leave home like her brother.

Don't tell my wife I said that though!

Brad chuckles at his own joke.

CAMILLE

I for one want to change something in this world. It feels too often like we're still in Pre

Unification times...Carnivores are the majority of the ruling class although it's supposed

to be equal rights for everyone...

BRAD

Pre-Unification times...That's not a subject young ones such as yourself talk about these

days. History is important! I don't doubt most folk your age have no idea what this

country has been through.

CAMILLE

You know...we're doing the best we can with what you left us with. It's not only what

happened back then that matters, it's what your generation did as well. You left the ruling

class unchanged...

BRAD

We didn't leave anyone to rule...It happened...There are a lot of folk who died for your

generation to have a better future. If they could see what has become of Stradia now,

they'd turn in their graves...But that's another story...for another time, not for Grand

Unification Day...

CAMILLE

Of course...

TANNER

I know...I said I know! Listen here! Stop pestering me! I already told you what's going

on. Leave me the fuck alone if you can't get it through your thick skull!

TANNER throws his phone on CAMILLE's luggage. A

few moments of silence.

BRAD

Everything alright back there buddy?

TANNER

Eh. Just some things needed to be...cleared up.

CAMILLE

Problems with the girlfriend?

TANNER

T'yeah. Sometimes she doesn't understand what's good for here and somehow I am to

blame for everything in the end...

CAMILLE

You have a girlfriend and you didn't take her with you for Grand Unification Day?

TANNER

That's none of your concern! Mind your own business!

Camille and Brad look at each other surprised by the

hostile response.

TANNER

Sorry, really. I apologize. I don't know what came over me. I didn't mean to bark at you

like that. I have too much on my mind and everyone wants a piece of me. I only wanted

to take a few days off for myself and nothing's going as planned. It's just one of those

days, you know?

BRAD

I've had enough of those and I'm sure I'll have more. You can tell us more about it if you

want to; we were talking about some deep stuff anyway.

TANNER

Oh really? What was the subject?

CAMILLE

Pre-Unification times and what Brad's generation left us...

TANNER

Not everything they left us is to be discarded...There is still good where everyone keeps

saying it's bad. I mean, in the end, we're still folk among folk, which is a win in itself.

BRAD

That's very true. We're all together in this car right? What's in the past is in the past.

TANNER

Right. What's the use of looking back? We're not going that way anymore. Best look

towards the future because that's what we'll have to deal with soon enough.

CAMILLE

It's still good to look in the past. There are plenty of lessons to be learned from our

history.

BRAD

Well said. Without knowing the past, what kind of future would we have?

TANNER

Seems like we have a couple of cardinals on this trip amongst us. A rare sight indeed on

Ride2gether if I do say so.

CAMILLE

Ah...well, we need to make the time go by somehow.

BRAD

We're getting close to Aurora anyway. Only a few hours after that and we're in Porthas.

TANNER

I didn't mean it like that. I'm enjoying the conversation. It's not like I want to talk about

the weather and the unfinished roads of Stradia.

BRAD

That would also be an interesting subject. The amount of times I've been on the road and

ended up with a "building in progress" sign in my face...

TANNER

We've got highways now. No need to drive through muddy roads of villages anymore.

BRAD

Everyone's leaving the villages nowadays...It was a different time when I was young. You

were proud to go visit your grandma and grandpa. Nowadays everyone goes around

taking selfies at the seaside or at some ridiculously expensive places...Everyone's always

on their phone. You can't talk to anyone at the bus stop anymore. Headphones on and

always stuck to your precious screens. You're offended by everyone and everything. You

should not take everything so seriously and enjoy life, cause you can if you want to...

TANNER

But then again you got upset when we said that you're still strong enough to do...other

stuff?

BRAD

Cheekiness isn't something anyone would actually consider decent...

TANNER

What's decent to you then old timer?

BRAD

A little runt who doesn't call me an old timer is what I'd call decent. You don't know

what decency looks like anymore, cause there aren't any decent folk left. When you do

find someone who's good to you, you take advantage thinking that folk is naïve. You

think if we don't take selfies and hashtag everything it's over! We're expired product to

you and have nothing relevant to say anymore. There's plenty I could tell you I'm sure

you have no idea about. What's your deal anyway? What do you do? Because I don't

know anything about you, just that you keep touching your finger where you took off

your wedding ring. Where are you going? What are you doing in Porthas anyway?

Silence in the car. Camille looks at Tanner's paw which is

now covered by his other paw.

TANNER

Stop the car sir. I'm want to get off.

CAMILLE

Are you for real?

TANNER

What's your problem with my personal life? Stop the damn car so I can get off and find

my own way to Porthas. I'm nobody's punching bag! Here's the money for the trip so

that you can buy that Fulmer you keep lying you have and that's that.

BRAD

You think I'm lying about my car? Alright. Out with ya!

The car starts slowing down.

CAMILLE

Let's calm down a bit here. Brad. Just drive please. Put some music on and we can drive

in silence the rest of the way. Where do you want to get out now anyway Tanner? It's

raining. What if nobody picks you up? You'd be stranded here...

Brad turns on the radio and picks up to a normal speed

again.

CAMILLE

It's Grand Unification Day...What's gotten into you both?

TANNER

Ah Grand Unification Day...We keep celebrating some made up fantasy world where

everything is fine and dandy but the reality is that we're cursed by the Furred One. We

keep blaming what happened in the past to see that we're still massively fucked up as is.

No change, nothing. Same old crap over and over.

BRAD

It was better in my time...Everyone had a purpose. We had to build up trust...it was a

good time. We tried to create a better world for everyone...No matter who we were and

what our jobs were...

TANNER

As if that worked...

BRAD

I think it was better still. What is everyone doing now? Nothing. You all want stuff but

it's easier to hide behind a keyboard rather than put yourself out there.

CAMILLE

We're doing what we can you know. The rules you were used to don't apply anymore.

It's normal for us to use the technology we are given. Why shouldn't we? It's how things

are now. There's a lot we can achieve behind a keyboard. Not everyone can be out there

like you once were...We're going through different things.

BRAD

And what are those things? Tell me so I can better understand. Honestly. Because I look

around and folk just keep wanting and wanting but they ain't doing anything about it!

CAMILLE

To buy a flat without going into debt for the rest of my life would be a great start. You

probably bought yours, when? 30 years ago or more? Have you seen the prices in

Porthas? I won't even mention Caliginous.

TANNER

If you did something with your life it's not that expensive to buy a flat nowadays...

CAMILLE

You're a hoot! Not expensive? I personally don't know anyone my age with such

possibilities...

TANNER

Well now you know me. I'm not 25 or whatever, but I can't complain about my financial

situation.

CAMILLE

If you're so high and mighty rich, owning flats and whatnot, why are you with us on a

ride sharing trip?

TANNER

Again, not your concern. How many times do I have to ask you not to go through my

stuff? I want to get to Porthas. That's it. Someone's calling me again...

TANNER

Yes love. I'm on the way. A couple of hours. See you soon!

Camille and Brad look at each other upon hearing

Tanner's short conversation. The voice on the radio blares

loudly in the car.

VOCE RADIO

Massive crash on the east highway towards Aurora. Three cars and a truck loaded with

chemical compound smashed into each other a few miles outside Aurora. Two folk have

died and among other victims, two young pups are in critical condition. Traffic is at a

standstill, expect heavy delays. Police and ambulances are already at the sight of the

accident. We advise anyone driving towards Aurora to respect the speed limit and drive

carefully given the current weather conditions.

TANNER

Just what we needed! Now you'll have time to talk about Pre-Unification times all night

long...

BRAD

Horrible way to go...Carelessness at the wheel takes the lives of so many. You can't even

assume responsibility for your actions anymore cause the deed's done...

CAMILLE

I had a friend who died in a car accident on the highway. I think she fell asleep while

driving, I'm not sure...I hope you're well wherever you are Alex.

BRAD

Sorry to hear about that. Was she young like yourself?

CAMILLE

She was 30. An amazing girl with a pure soul. Life comes and goes in an instant...

TANNER

Maybe she should have been more careful then. What if she would have killed others as

well?

BRAD

Don't talk like that about the dead...

TANNER

What an ancient saying or whatever that should be. She's dead. There's nothing after that.

The movie's done. It's a good thing she didn't take others with her in the great unknown.

CAMILLE

She was a really close friend of mine...I don't like your attitude about this at all...

TANNER

So you'd prefer to defend someone who could have killed others because she was an

irresponsible driver? You want to tell me your friend is somehow absolved because she

died in the process? Absurd...

CAMILLE

I'm not saying that. It's just...

TANNER

Just what? Let's be real now. If Brad falls asleep and kills us all, is that ok? Do we both

deserve to die because he wasn't in his right mind to know that he needs sleep? What

would your mother say? "It is what it is. My daughter's gone. Such is life". Or would she

curse our driver in every temple she could find.

BRAD

I'll have you know I've been driving for the better part of 30 years and have never fallen

asleep while on the road.

Be it rain, fog, snow, whatever the elements threw at me...nobody will die in the same car

with me while I'm driving. You're overdoing it anyway. What got you so turned up?

TANNER

The irresponsibility of others and how they're outside of actual punishment for their

actions. That's what got me turned up. They're dead so nothing can be done anymore,

right? And what did they leave behind? When an accident on the road happens, it usually

involves multiple folk. You're alone? Go right ahead and splatter your brains all over the

highway if that's what you want. But when you have others around you, maybe you

should remind yourself that you're not some made up hero that can go through walls or

worse...other folk...

Brad changes the radio station.

TANNER

And another thing...

CAMILLE

I think you've said enough.

TANNER

The truth hurts doesn't it?

CAMILLE

The truth is the truth, but that's not the issue here. The real issue is that you have no

common sense. Maybe it is exactly how you described it. Maybe my friend did fall

asleep and died because of that, maybe it was something else. There are a lot of things

that can happen, just like Brad said: rain, fog, snow...we don't know what she went

through. After all, every time you get in a car you sign an invisible contract that you

might die that day. This metal cage on wheels isn't the best method of transportation,

especially during crap weather like this one.

TANNER

So why are you riding with us then?

CAMILLE

I think you're missing the point here...

BRAD

Let's change the subject. I think there's nothing else to add here...

TANNER

There would be plenty...

BRAD

I know a road just ahead of Aurora. We can take the way around the city just before the

accident site. I'm sure there will be others who'll go that way as well. Nobody wants to

sit in traffic for hours and it's getting late too.

CAMILLE

I can check on my phone for a possible side route.

BRAD

You really don't need to worry. I've been through there multiple times. Sometimes it's

better to go the long way...

TANNER

So that you get some more driving hours under your belt and you get paid more...I know

how that goes...

BRAD

I don't do shady stuff like that...After all, what's the gain I get from that? It's not like I

would take out gas for myself...

TANNER

I never said anything about that, but good to know that you also dabble in gas...

BRAD

I would throw you out right now if the missus wasn't here...

CAMILLE

I actually have nothing to object to that...

TANNER

What crawled up both of your behinds? Can't take a little joke...Try going along with it

instead of turning into some whiney babies...

BRAD

When I mentioned your wedding ring I thought your eyeballs would pop out of your

skull. You're moodier than a female on her period. Excuse my bluntness Camille.

CAMILLE

No, no, you're right. Even I'm not like Tanner here when I'm on my period. Who were

you talking to just now anyway back there? Your girlfriend, wife or mistress?

TANNER

You two really are something. Straight to the personal stuff.

CAMILLE

You talked about Alex as well. She was my friend.

TANNER

How is that personal? You knew here sure, but I never said anything about you, your

family or your boyfriend. If you even have one...

CAMILLE

See? That's exactly what I'm talking about. You take all the shots if you see the opening.

If there's one thing I despise about you calis is how you treat everyone outside of your

precious city.

TANNER

Calis. Sure. Yeah...I am one. So what? You think that has something to do with my

behavior?

CAMILLE

Of course it does! You think of yourselves automatically better than everyone else. Not

that long ago you were the site of military camps and the untold evils that went on there.

Now you emerged as a grand city. Too bad the blood under those concrete streets can't

talk or crumble the buildings from where you all look down on everyone else.

TANNER

And yet you study in Caliginous. For all the hard facts you put out, which are very much

true, you're still there, on your way to become a cali.

CAMILLE

Caliginous is a necessary evil for me. That's where the good universities like Tirenon are

because the myth of Caliginous being this fabled city has gone too far. A bunch of

nonsense! There are plenty of other cities that are way and above.

TANNER

Like what? Porthas? The only thing you've got going there is a bit of culture studies and

what else? Oh yeah. Nothing! You might say Caliginous is bad, but you should first have

a better comparison before throwing rocks at the very place where you study.

BRAD

Let's all take a breath here. Caliginous, Porthas, Aurora...who cares? We're all under the

same roof. With vermin ruling over all of us. Can't you see it's the same either way?

There's an old saying, something like..."You get rid of the problem then you meet its

cousin". Stop fighting over who's better; you're like children in a the school yard. Both

Caliginous and Porthas have good and bad sides, nice folk, problems and so one. Be

happy you get to move around however you want and whenever you want to without

any border checks...

TANNER

We're heading back in time when we talk about anything...Leave the pre-Unification times

be buddy...

BRAD

As if you're doing any better now. You keep protesting in the streets this and that, but

somehow the same shit happens either way. Instead of asking for folk to be fired from

whatever position, you should be out there marching for better hospitals, equal treatment

of folk, better roads, safer playgrounds for kids...Where's the difference if the roads have

potholes in them regardless if it's Caliginous or Porthas? Ey buddy?

TANNER

When you're right, you're right. I'll give you that.

CAMILLE

It's like you swallowed something sour back there.

TANNER

Oh for the love of the Furred One nothing's ok with you? If I agree with him you

complain, if I don't, you complain...What's your problem?

CAMILLE

Your way of saying things is my problem. You're beyond help.

BRAD

I think we're starting to see the line of cars already.

TANNER

I thought we still had some time before that...

BRAD

I thought so too...We should take the next exit otherwise we'll spend all night on the

highway.

CAMILLE

Shouldn't we take some time and see how things will evolve? Something's going to be

done about this surely.

TANNER

I doubt things will move at a reasonable pace...Nothing ever does around here.

BRAD

We need to get off now, cause I don't know when the next exit will be. If we don't start

on the other way to Porthas, who knows how long we'll be stuck here. If it snows as well

we're done for...Not everyone's an experienced driver like myself to manage snowy

roads...

TANNER

I agree. We should get off the highway now and maybe we'll just go around this entire

debacle. There'll be others doing the same thing and flooding the way to Porthas so might

as well get a head start.

CAMILLE

I'm not ok with this. I think it's stupid to leave now. Surely they'll free up at least one

lane for everyone to pass. There's no way they'll keep so many folk trapped here

especially on Grand Unification Day.

BRAD

It happened to me as well a few times though. Delays on the highway I mean. I had to

stay the entire night. Check for a different route if you really want to be sure.

CAMILLE

Alright. Let me take a look where we are now...No connection. I think there's no coverage

here.

TANNER

I'll check my phone...

CAMILLE

The rich dude showing us how he's phone is better...

TANNER

Huh...No connection. Where are we?

BRAD

You'd be lost without your precious phones. Zero road experience. I know where we are

and what the right way is. I've been through here a few times and got to my destination.

They leave the highway.

BRAD

See? Nobody. An empty road ahead. I'll go a bit faster so that we make up for taking this

long way. At least we won't spend Grand Unification Day on some highway in the cold...

TANNER

Speaking of cold...Turn up the heat more. My paws are starting to freeze...

BRAD

It's already at max...I think there's something wrong with it. It does this sometimes, but

it'll be fine in a jiffy. Are you cold Camille?

CAMILLE

Just a little...

BRAD

I'm sorry. There's a blanket in the back. I sometimes use it when it gets cold on the

road...You can take that if you want to.

CAMILLE

Not now, but thank you. If I really need it I'll ask for it.

TANNER

You're not asking me if I need it?

BRAD

That expensive overcoat should be more than enough for you. You also didn't bring

anything else with you. No luggage or anything. You know...in case of anything.

TANNER

In case of anything...I thought I would drive to Porthas with Brad in his Fulmer, not in

this heap of junk with Dozer.

BRAD

It's gonna pass until you get married...

CAMILLE

Or divorce...To each his own...

TANNER

Up to now you were both just cringe, but now you're borderline assholes.

BRAD

Careful with your words there friend...

TANNER

The Porthas alliance. You've already made up your mind about me. If I'm from

Caliginous I must be some sort of high brow, stuck up rich guy so best make fun of the

stupid wolf right? Ha...ha...You're both so damn hilarious.

CAMILLE

You're joking right? From the moment you got in the car you've only been against

everything we said. Nothing pleases you. You also have no respect towards other folk

although you keep trying to mask it under the guise of being honest. Married or divorced,

that's neither here nor there, you're just plain rude and I really wonder who in their right

mind would take you as husband based on your behavior that you've exhibited here.

TANNER

You have no idea who I am or what I am about. Zero. I have no obligation to talk in a

certain way to anybody. I don't need to explain myself to you or anyone else for that

matter. You're nobody. Brad is a nobody. Maybe I am a nobody as well...Even more

reason not to feel this way or that for not wanting to have a higher level conversation

with someone like you.

BRAD

That's enough!

TANNER

Oh shut it grandpa! If I hadn't joined you at that parking lot you'd have had a heart

attack by now thinking you duped only one folk into driving in your imaginary Fulmer.

You really have one or you don't? I don't care in the slightest. I wanted to get to Porthas.

Nothing else. No chit-chat about anything. I paid for my seat here and I demand to be

respected for that.

CAMILLE

You need to give respect before it's given to you. That's how it works. Seems like

nobody taught you that...

TANNER

You're talking because you like the sound of your own voice I guess...Respect? I'd offer

some if the car I was meant to drive in was the one in the add. I'd offer more if the other

passenger wouldn't talk shit about the driver behind his back the moment she got the

chance. What was it? "Don't leave me alone with him". Isn't that what you said?

Where's the respect? Why are you slowing down? You're finally kicking me out?

Pfff...Fine. Weaklings...

BRAD

Would you shut up already? There's no gas in the tank. How can that be? I filled it up

when we left. You saw it too...

TANNER

Lo and behold! We've reached that part of this story when we're finally off the highway,

in the middle of nowhere, no connection so we can't call for help...Perfect spot for your

friends to come out of the dark and relieve us of our belongings. You can take my cards

but you'll have to beat the codes out of me. I'll fight back to the very end you

scoundrels!

BRAD

Can you just shut the fuck up already?! There's nobody coming to take anything from

you. Are you having a stroke? There's something wrong with the car. I know it's a heap

of junk, but this has never happened to me. I need to take a look and see what the

problem is. Just smoke a cigarette in the meantime while I figure things out.

They all get out of the car, Camille looking around

suspiciously.

BRAD

See what you did you big numbskull? You scared the poor girl. Camille. Don't worry.

There's something wrong with the car. I'll fix it and we'll be on our way. There's nobody

coming here to take anything. You can go back in the car if you're cold. Take the blanket...

CAMILLE

No thanks. I'm good here.

Camille moves closer to Tanner. Brad checks the tank.

CAMILLE

Do you have another cigarette for me?

TANNER

Do you have any more of those spicy comebacks?

CAMILLE

I'm sorry. I mean it. This trip has gotten me really agitated. We're completely lost with a

broken down car.

BRAD

We're not lost. Can either of you call someone for help? At least to get us to the next gas

station...

TANNER

There's no connection here and I'm at 3% battery anyway. If your car doesn't even have

a charger attached...

BRAD

I'm so sorry this happened...I really am. I never wanted anything like this to happen. I

feel really bad about all of this. I don't know what else to say...This shitty car! I didn't

try to fool anyone into driving with me...I'm just an old man who's got problems of his

own...I don't even need the money to be honest. I wanted to have some company on

Grand Unification Day...

CAMILLE

Didn't you say your wife's waiting for you at home?

BRAD

I don't think she's waiting for me anymore...Maybe a show on TV or the weather to turn

better so she can take a walk...But not me...Anyway...We ran out of gas and I have no

idea why. I'll try to fix it, I promise. Did you check the car when I went to the toilet?

TANNER

You think someone stole the gas right out of the tank when we smoked our cigarettes?

BRAD

Anything's possible at this point! Nowadays you can expect the unexpected...

CAMILLE

We looked at the car...If anyone actually stole the gas they must have been

professionals...

TANNER

Wait a second. Didn't you notice we're running our of gas until now?

BRAD

I didn't pay attention to that specifically. I didn't think I needed to since we had a full

tank and you were also spewing crap all the way here. It was distracting enough...

TANNER

As if I'm to blame for all of this! I'll never get in a car with the likes you ever again...May

the Furred One be my witness...

BRAD

And you never need to again! I will never have such a loathsome folk like yourself near

me in my entire life!

CAMILLE

Stop it! Stop it! Both of you, stop it! You're crazier than anyone I've ever met in my life.

What do you think is going to happen if you scream at each other? There's nobody

around to hear your useless shit except me! I can't stand this anymore! I want to go

home. I want this trip to end already! Brad, check the car and find whatever is wrong

with it. Tanner, go get some gas from somewhere so we can get out of here because I had

enough of this!

TANNER

You want me to go through these dark and muddy roads, alone, to get gas for you?

CAMILLE

For me? You're positively dreadful. You want me to go? Me? A girl alone in this ditch?

Bran can't go either, or can you fix the car yourself?

TANNER

You want to be left alone with him?

CAMILLE

What I want is to go home.

BRAD

There's nothing to worry about...

TANNER

Maybe that's his plan. To separate us. Then he's alone with you...

CAMILLE

I'm not going with you if that's where you're getting at. Go and get gas. That's all I ask...

BRAD

Take this vest. If there's someone else driving these roads they should see you so you

don't get run over by some maniac...We're going to put the emergency lights on and wait

for you here.

Tanner pulls the vest out of Brad's paw.

TANNER

Farewell then.

Tanner leaves. Brad checks the car. Camille looks around

nervously.

BRAD

I don't even know how to begin...

CAMILLE

Then don't. Just check the car...

BRAD

You actually thought I'd hurt you?

CAMILLE

I don't know who you really are after all...Dozer...

BRAD

This again. I told you it was just a simple misunderstanding. I thought we were over

that...

CAMILLE

Over what? Over these murky roads where you plunged us in?

BRAD

I didn't plunge us into anything...Can't you see I'm trying to get us out of here? Why

didn't you leave with that psychopath then if I'm so bad?

CAMILLE

I don't know...Maybe I should have...

BRAD

I have a daughter as old as you...You're like a second child to me...

CAMILLE

Let's keep it real here. We barely know each other to be considered acquaintances...

BRAD

You know what I meant. I'm only saying that I have no ill thoughts of any sort even

though you might imagine them...There's nothing like that going to happen.

There a bit of silence between the two. Camille looks in

every direction moving her phone around trying to get

reception.

BRAD

It's just a hunch...but...and you don't need to tell me anything if you don't want to...but

has something similar to this ever happened to you that you're so scared? I'm not saying

it's normal not to be scared in a situation like this...but you look like you've been through

something...

CAMILLE

That's not for you to ask.

BRAD

You're acting like that blockhead Tanner now?

Camille relaxes a bit, Brad smiles at here softly.

CAMILLE

I mean...After all it's just us two now...So...A long time ago, at the Lakes we talked about.

It was a warm season. I was just a kid...8 or 9 years old, can't even remember properly.

We went to grill with the neighbors as usual on a Sunday.

It was like every other weekend. At that time I was fascinated by butterflies. Beautiful

creatures. I wanted to catch different ones to collect them and show them off at school

when it started again. I made a would-be catcher from a plastic bag and a branch my dad

got me from a tree. I ran around trying to catch butterflies of different colors, when an

older folk, maybe around 40 or 50, grabbed me by the arm and started asking me a ton of

questions. If I'm alone there. Where my parents are. How old was I. I was desperately

looking around for someone, but nobody was there. I wanted to scream but my voice was

stuck in my throat. He was squeezing my arm so hard and screaming at me viciously...I

was in total shock. Something broke in me that day. Something stopped working...I could

see myself from the outside, unable to move, unable to talk...I finally managed to start

crying. Probably some instincts kicked in. Louder and louder. I felt his paw on my

mouth. That's when I woke up; when he touched my face. I bit as hard as I could, crying

and screaming as loud as my tiny lungs let me. My parents were already looking for me .

I didn't realize I had been gone for more than 20 minutes already. I saw my dad charging

towards us...arms bulging, eyes red, screaming my name. The creep let me go when he

saw my dad and ran off. I don't think I've ever hugged anyone as hard as I did that day...

BRAD

Sweet, sweet girl...What a terrible story...Sweet, sweet girl...

Brad moves towards Camille and puts out his arms

waiting for her to see if she wants to get a hug. She does

so immediately.

CAMILLE

It's fine now...It passed. I won't ruin my make-up with things best forgotten in the past.

BRAD

With or without make-up, you're as beautiful as they come!

CAMILLE

Shouldn't you tell your wife that?

BRAD

Ah...It don't make no difference what I say to her...

CAMILLE

For a folk as well travelled as you I see you have no clue how females work...

BRAD

I'm not like that wolf who has a female for every season...I fell in love with one and

stayed with her. You're young now, but that fire that's strong in the beginning, dims

down in time. This isn't the movies...

CAMILLE

Never said it's like that, but it's not like you make it out to be either.

BRAD

I told you she's sick...It's difficult. I don't want to say anything that might upset her. It's

better this way...

CAMILLE

But do you know what she wants? As in, did you actually ask her what she wants? Or

are you just imagining it for her? A female wants to be courted for the entirety of her life.

Anyone can say anything, but a female wants to be asked what she wants, what her

opinion is about this or that...Communication is the key. At least for me it is...I may be

young, but that doesn't mean I haven't experienced heart ache already...

BRAD

Don't answer if you don't want to, but could you have boyfriends after...you know...that

lake thing?

CAMILLE

I didn't go out alone for years after that. I was either with my parents or with a friend.

Never alone. In my first year of high school I met Nick. The next door kind of guy. I liked

him and he liked me back. I was still scared out of my mind, but I also realized that I

could fight back...I mean, we were both the same age and it wasn't some older guy trying

to rape me or worse...Nick was a good guy, cute, a bit shy and also good at physics. We

went on a date in the end. My dad was sitting at a different table, but I didn't tell Nick. I

was so embarrassed. Then slowly...I stared going out alone and now, here I am with you

and Tanner on the road to see my mom on Grand Unification Day.

BRAD

I've been to many places and met many folk along the way, but a story like yours I've

never heard...You're strong and I admire you for that. You're someone I am very glad to

have met.

CAMILLE

Likewise. I see you don't want to talk about your personal life with me or Tanner, but

you try to get as much out of us as you can. One question though...When's the last time

you took your wife out on a date?

BRAD

Well...Tomorrow. If we're going to even get there...

Brad goes under the car to check again for something.

BRAD

Found it! Darn rust bucket!

CAMILLE

What's wrong? Did you fix it?

BRAD

How can I put this...There's gas filter. It rusts if you've driven for a long period of time. I

haven't changed mine since this is the work car...Anyway, this one's as rusted as they

get. If it doesn't...stick properly, then gas leaks out. See that trail there? That's from us!

CAMILLE

Can you fix it though?

BRAD

We would normally need a new one...But I can try to clean it up a bit and jam it in. With a

bit of luck, it will be enough to get us to a gas station near the highway again. Someone

will help us get to Porthas from there.

CAMILLE

Well, try. If not...I don't know...maybe Tanner will bring someone with him.

BRAD

Oh that guy? He's long gone. You thought he'd come back? If he reached a village or some

other place nearby with a power outlet, he already found a way to get to Porthas without

us. Lemme try to fix the filter back in and we'll both go get gas from somewhere or find

someone who can pull us out of here. Maybe you can tell me more about...how to

talk...you know...about stuff...to my wife.

CAMILLE

Gladly. I'll help however I can Dozer.

BRAD

Cheeky girl!

They lock the car and start walking the same way Tanner

left. Not even a few minutes pass and they see the wolf

heading their way. He has different clothes on and he's

carrying what seems like a can of gasoline. He's walking

slowly towards the car.

CAMILLE

Tanner?! Are you alright?

TANNER

Me? Yeah...I am. I think so...No, no...I'm good. Really good. Or who knows...maybe

better than I've been? Or am?

BRAD

Did you have anything to drink? Or what's up with you?

TANNER

No...I mean...Yes...A little. But just a taste...I'm not driving anyway so no harm done...

CAMILLE

Uhm...yeah...Dozer's driving anyway.

BRAD

So you're gonna give us that gasoline there bud?

TANNER

The gasoline! Yeah...yeah...Just a second...You...both...You made fun of me.

CAMILLE

Oh come now...This isn't the time...

TANNER

No, no...Let me talk...Then you can talk...Show me that well known Porthas patience.

You saw me well dressed and figured you'd have a laugh at my expense...I'm a Cali so I

must be some selfish prick right? You know what? You're both right. Where's the truth if

not in the mouths of the ones who don't know you? The ones who don't owe me

anything and say it like it is. You don't need to say "You're right Tanner", "Whatever

you say Tanner". Am I going to Porthas to visit my mistress?

I'm ashamed of it now, but yes. Yes I am. On Grand Unification Day of all days...I have a

son at home...4 years old and a wife who calls me, begging me to go back to her. Why am I

going to Porthas then? I don't even know how I should answer that anymore...

BRAD

What's gotten in to you all of sudden?

TANNER

I wanted to leave you both here you know...Alone. I was walking and saw a village. There

was some noise coming from a house nearby so I figured that's my best shot at getting

out of here. They would let me charge my phone if I'd pay them I thought and I'd be on

my way. I was determined to fork out whatever they'd ask just to get this over with. To

stopped being judged by you two, some random folk who I'd met on some silly ride

sharing app. What do you know about me anyway? The stress, the daily struggles I'm

going through. Debts, contracts, money laundering...Put some here, take from there,

careful not to be too obvious, change this and that...What about Tanner though? Lost now

in this uncaring world...

Tanner trails off looking in the distance for a few seconds.

TANNER

I finally reached this house where the noise was coming from. I just wanted to make a

call. Some old rabbit answered the door. "What are you doing here at this hour sir?".

Before I managed to babble some response he just said: "Come in. The children are about

to start singing a praise to the Furred One". I tried telling him I only wanted to make a

call. He pulled me inside. There were more folk in the yard, children playing and others

getting ready to sing around some camp fire. The old rabbit's wife put a plate in front of

me with some food and a drink besides it too. When they all cheered to the Furred One

they looked at me expecting me to do the same, so I followed suit. Me...a wolf. They

treated me as one of them although I had just walked into their home a few moments ago.

I didn't realize I started crying. "Is something the matter friend?" someone asked. I

started telling them about the road here, about you two, how I got to their house, where

I'm going. They all patiently waited for me to tell them everything...nobody interrupted

me. When I finished my story we drank another glass then the children started singing. It

was so beautiful...so pure. The best Cardinals in Stradia would be put to shame compared

to what I heard. They put on some music after that and we started dancing and

singing...When I wanted to leave they gave me a blanket to stay warm and called me a

taxi...I wanted to give them money. They refused. I wanted to give them my watch, but

they said no to that as well. My phone...They wanted nothing. I didn't get it. Why didn't

they want anything?

They didn't know me...I was just some random folk who showed up at their door...Then

it was like I heard you...both of you...You get respect when you have first given it...They

all came out to see me off. I waved at them until I couldn't see them anymore...Then I

went to a gas station to get a can of gas. I asked him to take me back here. I don't know

how much I gave the taxi driver but he tanked me a lot. I told him to leave me out here...I

felt like I needed to take a walk. The air in the mountains...there's something here. And so

there is. Cause we found each other again. The same three that went on this road

together...

Tanner finally hands Brad the can of gasoline and steps in

between the two and start walking to the car.

BRAD

I'm glad things worked out somehow. I'll fill up the tank and we'll be on our way.

TANNER

We're getting back onto the high way again right?

BRAD

As soon as possible, yes. If anything happens to us there at least there's be someone to

help us. I'll fill up the tank and we'll get going. I'm sorry I said we should go through

here...You can't teach this old bear new tricks...but I've learned now...

They all get in the car but the engine isn't starting.

BRAD

What now? Don't tell me the car ran out of power...

TANNER

So what? Can't we push it so it jumpstarts from the motion?

BRAD

We could, but it's difficult to push alone since I won't let Camille do that...

TANNER

Then push with me and let her start the engine.

CAMILLE

Me? I don't know how to drive...

TANNER

You don't have a driver's license?

CAMILLE

I never got around to do it...

TANNER

Didn't your father ever teach you to drive just for fun or something?

CAMILLE

We didn't have that much time together...

TANNER

I'm sorry...I didn't mean to...Sorry.

CAMILLE

It's ok. You didn't do it on purpose...

BRAD

Would you like to learn now? Not to drive necessarily, but to start a car and maybe glide a

short distance. It's easy. You put it into gear like this, then turn the engine key here and

press this pedal. When you hear the engine start you take your foot off here slowly and

press the other one which is the brake.

CAMILLE

Alright. It doesn't seem that complicated.

BRAD

Come to this side and sit in front of the wheel. We need to adjust the seat a bit since

you're not some old fat bear like me.

They switch places so that Camille can sit in front of the

wheel. Tanner gets out of the car, leaning back watching

his breath in the cold air.

BRAD

I already put it into gear. Before we start pushing you need to pull the handbrake there.

The key is inside. You need to twist it and press on the right pedal just a little. If the

engine starts up press the middle pedal to brake. Alright? Easy ain't it?

CAMILLE

I'll try...It's my first time holding a steering wheel...

TANNER

Great first experience then. You're learning a valuable lesson. If you'll ever end up in a

similar situation you'll know what to do.

BRAD

You understood everything?

CAMILLE

I think so..Let's try.

The bear and wolf start pushing the car. After a few tries,

the engine starts up only to die down right after.

BRAD

You drowned it...

CAMILLE

I have no idea what I'm doing here, you know that right?

BRAD

I didn't mean it like that...Just take your foot off the pedal slower when you turn the key.

Ready? Let's try again.

The two guys start pushing again. The engine starts up,

Camille squealing with joy. She drives a short distance

slowly coming to a stop.

BRAD

Well done Camille! Well done!

CAMILLE

What a rush! I feel so...powerful! And I barely did anything.

TANNER

That's how it feels like when you have control over something...

CAMILLE

I don't know about control...more like the power to do something...to help something

function.

BRAD

Let's leave the philosophies at that. We still have a long way to go and we all want to get

home...

Brad gets back in the car in the driver's seat, the other

two taking their usual places.

BRAD

I think if we make a left we'll be on the highway soon. They must have built an exit here

somewhere...

TANNER

I'm sure there is one. By the way...I'm kinda hungry. I ate something at those very nice

folk back there but I'd definitely go for an actual meal right about now.

BRAD

I second that...My belly would welcome just about anything right now...

CAMILLE

I would prefer getting home as soon as possible. My mother is probably worried sick

about me since my phone's dead and we should have been close to Porthas by now.

TANNER

I would like to pay for everyone's dinner though. You know...for us. For this trip. I don't

know...because I met you both. Would you like that? Please...

A moment of silence, Brad waiting for Camille to say

something.

CAMILLE

I suppose we're already late as it is. At least if I eat now my mom won't need to heat up

the food only for me.

TANNER

Excellent! Thank you!

BRAD

That's very nice of you Tanner! Thank ya.

TANNER

I'm happy I can help somehow, considering...

BRAD

Water under the bridge as they say.

CAMILLE

Look there! There's a diner right before getting onto the highway.

BRAD

Curious...Haven't seen this here before. They've probably built it in the past half season.

TANNER

Your trucker buddies are lined up in the parking lot.

BRAD

Good folk! Folk you can trust. Only the Furred One knows how many times I needed

help on the road and one of my own came through...

CAMILLE

Nice to know we're in good paws around them.

They stop in the parking lot and get in the diner. A few

folk here and there inside.

WAITER

Good evening and welcome! How may I be of service?

BRAD

Evenin'! Is the kitchen still open?

WAITER

Of course! Table for 3?

TANNER

Maybe 4 considering how much Dozer here will chomp down.

BRAD

The joker returns! Table for 3 please.

WAITER

Right this way please. I'll bring you your menus in a bit.

WAITER

Would you like something to drink while you wait?

TANNER

I'll have a glass of Grovian.

CAMILLE

Just water for me please.

TANNER

Water? You don't drink alcohol?

CAMILLE

Only occasionally...

TANNER

I'd say this is as good of an occasion as any. Please bring her a glass of Grovian as well.

CAMILLE

Thank you...

BRAD

Grovian...pah! I'll have a beer without alcohol.

WAITER

Of course.

CAMILLE

Such beautiful decoration these folk have for Grand Unification Day.

BRAD

That they do. Quite the shiny amount of stuff they have around here. Looking darn good

I'd say!

TANNER

It is, isn't it...It reminds me of a time when dad used to decorate the house, fitting each

small statuette around every corner of each room. Then he'd pick the lights so that they

contrast with the color of the wall. He liked it like that. Changing it up from year to year.

Then I started doing it when he wasn't able to lift so many things anymore. You know...I

think I'm going to give them a visit when I go back.

WAITER

Your menus.

TANNER

Actually, if you have it, I'd like a roast on the grill, baked potatoes and an assorted salad.

You folk can take whatever you want. Like I said, it's my treat.

BRAD

I'll get what you're having then! It sounds delicious!

CAMILLE

So then I should take the same right? Just that...can you make the roast plant based?

WAITER

Of course miss. So 3 roast on the grill, one leafy of course, 3 baked potatoes and 3

assorted salads. Thank you for your order.

CAMILLE

You should visit your folk more often Tanner...You never know how long you might have

them next to you.

TANNER

You're right and I know...I'd call them now if I had juice in the phone.

BRAD

So...when are you planning on getting back? If you don't mind me asking...

TANNER

Can we just eat fist? I...can't think properly on an empty stomach...

BRAD

I couldn't agree more! Let's chomp it all down then! Didn't mean to ask in a bad way

you know...

TANNER

No need to apologize Dozer. It's a good question...I just want to...clear my mind and a

roast will do just that I'd say.

BRAD

Fair enough! It's been a while since I ate like this. A big roast! This is nice! All of us

around the table after this entire adventure!

CAMILLE

You said it! My great-grand-kids will hear this story over and over again every Grand

Unification Day!

TANNER

Mine too!

BRAD

I will certainly have something to talk to my wife about.

A lot of kids come in at the same time through the door.

BRAD

What's with these youngens? Athletes of some sort I guess...

TEACHER

Athletes of music. They use their vocal chords instead of basketballs.

BRAD

Singers? A choir then.

TEACHER

Precisely. We're on our way to Caliginous. There was an accident around Aurora and we

got slowed down considerably. We went out this way to avoid the traffic and figured we

should eat so the kids don't sing on an empty stomach. You know how rowdy they can

all get if they're not fed.

BRAD

That I do. To Caliginous you say...Safe travels to you then!

TEACHER

Thank you. You too.

TANNER

I'll be right back...just a second...

BRAD

Camille...

CAMILLE

Cammy is just fine.

BRAD

Cammy. Would you like to drive around the parking lot a bit before we leave?

CAMILLE

Really? Wow...Yes...I'd like that very much. Thanks!

BRAD

'Course. You need to be prepared for your exam...should you ever want to take it...

TANNER

I just spoke to that teacher over there. I'm...heading back to Caliginous. They said they'd

take me with them since they have free space on their travel bus. So...I guess that's it.

CAMILLE

Oh!Very well. What can I say...It's been a pleasure.

BRAD

Same here.

TANNER

I think I still have your phone number from the app. If you're ever in Caliginous...you

can write me...if you want to have a beer or a talk...Only if you want to...

CAMILLE

What about me? You're not inviting me as well?

TANNER

I figured you'll be back there soon enough and we can meet up more often if you'd

like...You can meet my son...Michael...and my wife...Lucille.

CAMILLE

Are you on SU?

BRAD

SU?

TANNER

Species United. Yeah. I have a profile there. Tanner Bane. There should be a picture of me

with my family...

BRAD

I use that Species United too...not an old-timer now? Brad Sunrow. There's a picture of

me...with my Fulmer there.

They all laugh together.

FADE TO BLACK.