FINAL FANTASY

CRY OF THE PLANET

 

Character List for Part 2

 

CLOUD STRIFE

BARRET WALLACE

TIFA LOCKHEART

AERIS GAINSBOROUGH

PRESIDENT SHINRA

PALMER

HEIDEGGER

RUDE

RENO

TSENG

REEVE

DON CORNEO

 

BODYGUARD

HONEY BEE INN GUARD

SHOPKEEPER

HOMELESS MAN #1

HOMELESS MAN #2

SHINRA SOLDIER #6

 

MARLENE

BIGGS

ELMYRA

CLOUD’S MOTHER

 

Dream Voice (V.O.)
 

Set Listing for Part 2

 

Interiors

 

7^th HEAVEN BAR

SHOP

PRESIDENT’S OFFICE – SHINRA HQ

MAKO REACTOR 5 – WALKWAY

MAKO REACTOR – DREAM WORLD

CHURCH

CHURCH – BACKROOM

AERIS’ HOUSE – MAIN ROOM

AERIS’ HOUSE – HALL

AERIS’ HOUSE – BEDROOM

CORNEO MANSION – OFFICE

CORNEO MANSION – BASMENT

CORNEO MANSION – BEDROOM

SEWERS

 

Exteriors

 

SECTOR 6 SLUMS – STREETS

CHURCH – ROOF

WALL MARKET

SECTOR 6 SLUMS – PLAYGROUND

WALL MARKET – OUTSIDE HONEY BEE INN

WALL MARKET – OUTSIDE CORNEO MANSION
PART 2: The Flower Girl

 

FADE IN

 

INT. 7^th HEAVEN BAR – SECTOR 7 SLUMS - NIGHT

 

BARRET holds out hid good with an envelope in it.

 

BARRET

Fifteen hundred, as we agreed.

 

CLOUD grabs the envelope and quickly counts the money. He pockets the envelope.

 

BARRET

We cool then?

 

CLOUD

It appears so.

 

(BEAT)

 

You have another job lined up right?

 

BARRET

We’re blowing the Number 5 reactor. Why? Have you decided to join us?

 

TIFA smiles knowing CLOUD took her advice.

 

CLOUD

I’ll do it,

 

(BEAT)

 

For no less than 3000.

 

BARRET slams his fist on a nearby table in anger.

 

BARRET

(angry)

Are you insane? Where do you get the balls?

 

 

 

CLOUD

How many other ex-SOLDIERS do you have on your payroll? I’m guessing none. The price will be 3000.

 

BARRET stares coldly at CLOUD in deep anger.

 

TIFA

It’s okay BARRET. We need the help.

 

BARRET

But that money’s for MARLENE’S schoolin’.

 

TIFA

We’ll find more money. Trust me.

 

BARRET calms down wipes some sweat off of his forehead.

 

CLOUD

Are we agreed?

 

BARRET

Fine.

 

BARRET walks away into the back room attempting to calm himself down.

 

TIFA

(to CLOUD)

You should get some sleep. We have an extra bed in the back.

 

INT. 7^th HEAVEN BAR – SECTOR 7 SLUMS – DAY

 

A new day has begun and CLOUD is already awake and is sitting at the bar drinking a glass of water. TIFA suddenly walks out of the bar awake from a long sleep.

 

TIFA

Hey CLOUD. Awake already?

 

 

CLOUD

I don’t sleep much.

 

TIFA

You should. We got a long day ahead of us. We’re blowing the Sector 5 reactor today.

 

CLOUD

I know.

 

CLOUD finishes his water and rubs his eyes.

 

TIFA

You look tired.

 

(BEAT)

 

Why don’t you sleep?

 

CLOUD

I can’t sleep with the dreams. They never leave me at peace.

 

TIFA

What do you see?

 

CLOUD

Nothing. Forget about it.

 

BARRET enters from the back room. He rubs his eyes with his good hand and goes to the bar. He pours himself a glass of “wakeup juice” and gulps it down.

 

BARRET

‘Morning, TIFA.

 

TIFA

Good morning, BARRET.

 

CLOUD

We should really get going if you plan to blow the next reactor.

 

 

 

BARRET

(irritated)

Are you giving me an order?

 

TIFA

Don’t start BARRET! He’s right.

 

BARRET slams his empty glass on the bar shattering it. He then stomps toward CLOUD who doesn’t budge.

 

BARRET

(to CLOUD)

I don’t take orders from no SHINRA scum, like yourself.

 

CLOUD

You amaze me, BARRET.

 

BARRET

How so?

 

CLOUD

Even after a good night’s rest, you still manage to be the big usual asshole.

 

BARRET raises his fist ready to strike CLOUD square in the jaw.

 

CLOUD

(CONT.)

Go on. Do it.

 

TIFA grabs BARRET’S hand forcing him to lower it.

 

TIFA

That’s enough!

 

(BEAT)

 

We can’t afford you two to be fighting while we blow the next reactor.

 

 

CLOUD

She’s got a point. I don’t like you and you don’t like me. Let’s just keep it at that.

 

BARRET

Just stay out of my way.

 

TIFA

Anyway, CLOUD was right. We should leave for the next reactor very soon.

 

CLOUD gets up from his stool and begins to leave.

 

CLOUD

I’m going to look around town for a shop. I’ll be back.

 

CLOUD leaves. Just as the door closes MARLENE enters the main room.

 

TIFA

Good morning, MARLENE!

 

MARLENE hugs BARRET.

 

BARRET

You sleep good?

 

MARLENE

Yeah.

 

MARLENE looks around and sees that CLOUD is gone.

 

MARLENE

Where’s Mr. CLOUD?

 

TIFA

He’ll be back. Don’t worry.

 

MARLENE

I heard him talking last night in his sleep.

 

TIFA

(anxious)

You did!?

 

(BEAT)

 

What’d he say?

 

MARLENE

I don’t know. Something about a guy. He also said something about you too, TIFA.

 

BARRET

CLOUD’S a strange person MARLENE. You ought’ a stay away from him.

 

INT. SECTOR 7 SLUMS – SHOP – DAY

 

CLOUD enters a small shop in the slums. The proprietor is an elderly man who is sitting behind the wooden counter reading something. Behind the SHOPKEEPER is a small amount of goods that he is selling. CLOUD approaches the counter.

 

CLOUD

Hello.

 

The SHOPKEEPER acknowledges CLOUD and puts down his reading material.

 

SHOPKEEPER

How can I help you?

 

CLOUD sees a green materia sphere lying on a dusty rag behind the SHOPKEEPER.

 

CLOUD

How much for the materia?

 

The SHOPKEEPER grabs the green sphere and places it on the counter.

 

 

 

 

SHOPKEEPER

I’ve been looking to get rid of this for quite some time. Nobody ‘round here got enough money for materia.

 

CLOUD

So how much?

 

SHOPKEEPER

I’ll let go for a hundred gil.

 

CLOUD picks up the sphere and looks at it.

 

CLOUD

What’s its purpose?

 

SHOPKEEPER

Recovery. When you get hurt, that little sphere will speed up your regenerative and healing process. Too bad it don’t cure depression.

 

CLOUD

I’ll take it.

 

CLOUD pockets the materia and pulls out the envelope BARRET gave him. He pulls out a bill and hands it to the SHOPKEEPER.

 

CLOUD

(as SHOPKEEPER stashes away the money)

Not too many businesses around here.

 

SHOPKEEPER

Well, SHIRNA is all the business in this city. They close every big public owned business.

 

CLOUD

So it’s all one huge monopoly?

 

SHOPKEEPER

Right.

 

CLOUD turns away, ready to leave when the SHOPKEEPER speaks again.

 

SHOPKEEPER

I never seen you around here before. Who are you?

 

CLOUD

I’m new here.

 

SHOPKEEPER

Well if ya are, good luck finding a place to live. Every nook and small crevasse has an occupant here in the slums.

 

CLOUD

Where do you live?

 

SHOPKEEPER

My shop is my home, and its all I need.

 

CLOUD

(BEAT)

Well, thanks. See you around.

 

CLOUD leaves the shop.

 

INT. SHINRA HQ – PRESIDENT’S OFFICE – DAY

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA stands in front of a north window eyeing the sector 7 plate. PALMER, a fat bald man wearing a brown suit and former executive of the SHINRA Space Program, is in the room also with his hands behind his back.

 

PALMER

From what I hear from Vice President RUFUS, the retaliatory strike against AVALANCHE is to be carried out today.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

I know.

 

 

PALMER

You don’t sound to confident, sir.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

This strike is going to cost me millions.

 

PALMER

Maybe so. But with all due respect, the cost is worth ridding ourselves of AVALANCHE.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA turns to face PALMER.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

My son,

 

(BEAT)

 

I’m worried about him.

 

PALMER

RUFUS? But you should be proud of him. He’s the one who is squashing AVALANCHE for you.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

That’s not it. His whole philosophy of ruling Midgar is far different from mine.

 

PALMER

How so?

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

He wants to rule with fear.

 

PALMER

You never know sir. He may be right.

 

EXT. 7^th HEAVEN STOOP – SECTOR 7 SLUMS – DAY

 

Both BARRET and TIFA are sitting on the 7^th Heaven bar stoop waiting for CLOUD to return. BARRET has his disconnected gun-arm in on his lap and loading ammo into it.

 

TIFA

You should cut CLOUD some slack.

 

BARRET

Why the hell should I? The guy’s a piece of shit. Every time I look at him I see the SHINRA.

 

TIFA

He’s been through a lot in his life.

 

BARRET

And I haven’t?

 

TIFA

That’s not what I meant.

 

BARRET screws the gun arm on his right hand and tightens it. Suddenly, CLOUD appears walking toward TIFA and BARRET. BARRET gets up.

 

BARRET

What took you so long?

 

CLOUD

You don’t have too many shops around here. I had to look all over the place.

 

TIFA

We should get going then. A train headed for the Number 5 Reactor departs in an hour.

 

The 7^th Heaven bar door opens and BIGGS exits. He stands in the door frame with his arms crossed.

 

BARRET

(to BIGGS)

Take care of MARLENE for me.

 

TIFA

And the bar.

BIGGS

You got it.

 

(BEAT)

 

And good luck.

 

BIGGS sees CLOUD’S sword perched up against the side of the bar. He grabs it and tosses it to CLOUD.

 

BIGGS

Give ‘em hell.

 

BARRET

We plan on it.

 

The group leave and BIGGS walks back into the bar. Little did they know that a HOMELESS MAN had ease dropped on their conversation. He had been hiding in a crevasse next to the bar. As soon as CLOUD, BARRET, and TIFA had disappeared, HOMELESS MAN #1 runs off into a dark alley.

 

EXT. SECTOR 7 SLUMS – ALLEY – DAY

 

When HOMELESS MAN #1 reaches the alley a man there waiting for him. The man is dressed in a fine suit jacket and tie. He is bald, wears black shades and black leather assassin gloves. The man is RUDE, of the Turks.

 

FREEZE FRAME:

 

“RUDE”

“Member of Shinra Secret Service force, the Turks”

 

REAL TIME

 

HOMELESS MAN #1 runs toward RUDE, who is stands there waiting.

 

RUDE

What’ve you got?

 

HOMELESS MAN #1

They’re headed to the Number 5 reactor.

 

RUDE smiles and digs into inner jacket pocket. He pulls out several coins and hands them to HOMELESS MAN #1. The man smiles at the sight of the money and begins to walk away.

 

RUDE

Stay here.

 

HOMELESS MAN #1 stops and looks at RUDE. RUDE goes into his pocket again and this time pulls out a cellular phone. He dials a number quickly and puts the phone to his ear.

 

INT. SHINRA HQ – PRESIDENT’S OFFICE – DAY

 

The vile president of SHINRA Inc. is still in his office. He continues to glare out of the windows of his office as if the whole city was an economical war zone and he was the general. PALMER is still there as well.

 

PALMER

HEIDEGGER and REEVE are on their way, Mr. PRESIDENT.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

And my son? Where is he?

 

PALMER

In his quarters.

 

A phone rings on PRESIDENT SHINRA’S desk interrupting the conversation. PALMER grabs the phone and holds it to his ear.

 

PALMER

(into the phone)

PRESIDENT SHINRA’S office. This is PALMER.

 

 

EXT. SECTOR 7 SLUMS – ALLEY – DAY

 

RUDE

It’s RUDE.

 

PALMER (VO)

Where are you?

 

RUDE

I’m in the Sector 7 Slums next to a small bar owned by AVALANCHE.

 

PALMER (VO)

AVALANCHE? Are they there now?

 

RUDE

No.

 

(BEAT)

 

They’re on their way to the Number 5 reactor.

 

PALMER (VO)

I see. Good work. How’d you find out?

 

RUDE

You can bribe anyone in the slums with money.

 

PALMER (VO)

Get rid of your informant.

 

RUDE

Yes, sir.

 

A small CLICK echoes in RUDE’S ear. PALMER hung up. RUDE puts his cell phone away and looks at HOMELESS MAN #1. RUDE smirks and pulls a pistol from a concealed holster.

 

HOMELESS MAN #1

What are you doing?

 

RUDE ignores the man and aims his pistol at

(MORE)

 

him. The helpless man attempts to run but RUDE fires. Three bullets bury themselves into the HOMELESS MAN’S back killing him.

 

INT. SHINRA HQ – PRESIDENT’S OFFICE – DAY

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA gazes at PALMER waiting to hear what the phone call was about.

 

PALMER

AVALANCHE is on their way to the Number 5 reactor. They’re going to destroy it.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA sighs.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Ready a helicopter.

 

PALMER

Right away, sir. You’ll be there in a matter of minutes.

 

INT. MAKO REACTOR 5 – WALKWAY – DAY

 

The walkway to the Number 5 Reactor is silent. The only noise is the sudden TING of the elevator reaching its destination. The doors slide open. CLOUD, TIFA, and BARRET are all inside. They quickly scan the walkway and see that nobody’s there. They then walk out of the elevator onto the walkway.

 

BARRET

This was too easy.

 

CLOUD

I agree.

 

TIFA

Not one guard or soldier in this whole complex. Was it like this at the other reactor?

 

 

BARRET

No.

 

CLOUD

When I first go to the other reactor, the place was crawling with guards.

 

TIFA

It has to be a trap.

 

BARRET

Let’s just blow this damn thing and get outa’ here.

 

BARRET pulls out the brick of plastic explosives and tosses it to CLOUD. CLOUD catches it and sheathes his sword. The three then begin their walk to the reactor core. As CLOUD progresses the tremendous buzzing sound in his head returns. CLOUD attempts to shake it off but the buzzing only grows. Yet again, the DREAM VOICE speaks to him.

 

DREAM VOICE (VO)

Remember.

 

CLOUD drops the bomb and falls to his knees. He shuts his eyes tight as the buzzing continues.

 

INT. DREAM WORLD – MAKO REACTOR – DUSK

 

The buzzing stops and CLOUD opens his eyes. He finds himself in a hallucination. He’s inside a Mako Reactor. This one is slightly different from the number five. Inside of the core being at the end of the walkway, a door is. Next to the door are a few extremely large gears that are spinning. Rusted chains and pipes hang from the ceiling as well. CLOUD gets up and looks over the edge of the walkway. Instead of an endless abyss, he sees a glowing green river. The green river is Mako, in its raw form. He looks forward and sees TIFA slumped over an elderly man.

 

TIFA

PAPA!

 

(BEAT)

 

SEPHIROTH did this to you. I hate him. SOLDIER, SHINRA, Mako Reactors, everything, I hate them all!

 

The buzzing returns in CLOUD’S head. He yet again falls to his knees and shuts his eyes.

 

INT. MAKO REACTOR 5 – WALKWAY – DAY

 

After a few seconds the buzzing ceases yet again. CLOUD looks up and sees both BARRET and TIFA towering over him. TIFA extends her hand and helps CLOUD to his feet.

 

TIFA

What happened? Are you okay?

 

CLOUD

(catching his breath)

Another dream.

 

BARRET

He did this at the other reactor, too.

 

CLOUD picks up the bomb.

 

BARRET

(CONT)

Now let’s just get this over with.

 

The three continue their walk to the core. CLOUD bends over and begins to planet the bomb.

 

TIFA

I get it.

 

CLOUD looks up at TIFA.

 

TIFA

(CONT.)

You’re having a reaction to high Mako concentration since everyone in SOLDIER is showered with that stuff.

 

CLOUD

Just forget about it.

 

CLOUD refocuses on the bomb and sets the detonators. He arms the bomb and a red light on the detonation mechanism blinks. CLOUD stands up.

 

CLOUD

I set it to a remote explosion.

 

BARRET

Who’s got the remote?

 

CLOUD

I do.

 

CLOUD reveals a silver cube with a switch on it.

 

CLOUD

(CONT.)

Now let’s get out of here.

 

The three start walking back toward the elevator. As they walk TIFA looks back at the bomb. She squints her eyes and realizes that the red light is no longer blinking. She stops.

 

TIFA

CLOUD?

 

CLOUD turns around.

 

TIFA

(CONT.)

Did you arm the bomb?

 

 

CLOUD

Yeah. Why?

 

CLOUD looks at the bomb and he too realizes that it’s been disarmed.

 

CLOUD

We have to get out of here!

 

Before anyone can react, the elevator doors open and a platoon of SHINRA SOLDIERS storm out with guns in hand. The soldiers corner CLOUD, BARRET, and TIFA. CLOUD takes out his sword and BARRET aims his gun-arm.

 

CLOUD

TIFA, you said something about a trap before, right?

 

TIFA

I hate when I’m right.

 

BARRET

Let’s waste them all.

 

Suddenly a large hatch on the ceiling of the chamber begins to move. Everyone looks up. When the hatch is completely open, a helicopter flies down into the chamber. When the vehicle is no more than a few feet above the walkway, two more SHINRA SOLDIERS jump out followed by PRESIDENT SHINRA, who is helped out of the vehicle by the soldiers. The helicopter flies out back through the ceiling hatch.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

It may not be such a good idea to fight. You are completely surrounded, I’m afraid.

 

BARRET

PRESIDENT SHINRA!

 

BARRET aims his gun-arm at SHINRA. TIFA stops him from firing.

 

TIFA

(to BARRET)

Don’t. You’ll be killed too if you do it.

 

BARRET lowers his weapon.

 

TIFA

(to PRESIDENT SHINRA)

Why are you here?

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

I’m here to stop you, of course. I finally have AVALANCHE in my grasp.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA looks at CLOUD and scans his face.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

You look familiar.

 

CLOUD

Do I?

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Oh yes.

 

(BEAT)

 

You were a member of SOLDIER before quitting to join those rebel vermin.

 

CLOUD holsters his sword and PRESIDENT SHINRA walks toward CLOUD. He gazes into his eyes and sees that they have a strange glow.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

You’ve been exposed to Mako.

 

(BEAT)

 

Tell me traitor, what’s your name?

 

CLOUD

CLOUD STRIFE.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Forgive me for not remembering. I can’t be expected to remember everyone. That is unless you were another SEPHIROTH.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA backs away from CLOUD and turns his back to the group.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

(CONT.)

Yes, SEPHIROTH was truly brilliant. Perhaps too brilliant.

 

BARRET

It doesn’t matter! This place is going up in flames anyway.

 

SHINRA turns to face BARRET.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Your fireworks show has been cancelled.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA pulls out a small transmitter from his coat.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Your bomb is now under my control.

 

BARRET

You’re a piece of shit! Your damn company is sucking the planet dry.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

You’re beginning to bore to me.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA looks at his watch.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

If you’ll excuse me, I have a meeting to get to.

 

(to SOLDIERS)

 

Kill them.

 

Before any of the SOLDIERS act, BARRET fires his gun-arm. TIFA grabs a fallen soldier’s rifle and fires. BARRET, TIFA and the platoon of SOLDIERS return fire as the helicopter yet again enters the chamber. CLOUD sees PRESIDENT SHINRA getting away. He runs toward his enemy with his sword in hand. However soldiers help SHINRA climb inside the helicopter and it hovers away.

 

Meanwhile, BARRET and TIFA have cleaned house. All the soldiers are lying on the ground. They run into the elevator.

 

TIFA

CLOUD! Hurry!

 

CLOUD begins his dash for the elevator when a wounded soldier pulls out a grenade. He takes the pin out and rolls the device toward CLOUD. BAM! The grenade explodes cause a chunk of the walkway to fall into the dark abyss. CLOUD finds himself dangling on the edge.

 

TIFA

CLOUD!

 

She runs out of the elevator to assist her friend.

 

TIFA

Hold on!

 

Before TIFA reaches CLOUD, his hands slip and CLOUD falls down into the darkness. TIFA collapses and watches is her jaw open as CLOUD falls.

 

BARRET

TIFA, we have to get out of here.

 

BARRET drags TIFA back into the elevator. TIFA struggles to break free but can’t. The elevator doors close.

 

FADE OUT

FADE IN

 

INT. SECTOR 5 SLUMS – CHURCH – DAY

 

CLOUD lies unconscious on a flower bed in a church that’s located in the sector 5 slums. As he lies there, the DREAM VOICE yet again returns.

 

DREAM VOICE (VO)

Can you hear me?

 

For the first time, CLOUD responds though his mouth doesn’t move.

 

CLOUD (VO)

Yeah.

 

DREAM VOICE (VO)

Back then, you could get by with just skinned knees.

 

CLOUD (VO)

Back then?

 

DREAM VOICE (VO)

Can you get up?

 

CLOUD (VO)

I don’t know.

 

(BEAT)

 

Who are you?

 

DREAM VOICE (VO)

Don’t worry about me. You just worry about yourself now.

 

CLOUD (VO)

I’ll try.

 

CLOUD slowly begins to wake up. His hands start to move and his eyelids flicker. A different voice rings in his ear. A voice from reality.

 

FEMALE VOICE (OS)

He moved!

 

CLOUD opens his eyes. His vision is blurry but he makes a female figure bent down over him. His vision returns and sees that it’s AERIS GAINSBOROUGH, the flower girl from the slums.

 

CLOUD

It’s you.

 

AERIS

Hello to you too.

 

CLOUD sits up and rubs his eyes. He grits his teeth when he feels a sharp pain coming from his back. He feels behind and feels blood.

 

AERIS

You cut yourself with your sword when you fell.

 

CLOUD digs into his side pouch and pulls out the green materia sphere he purchased from the shop in the slums. He attempts to move the materia to his wound but he can’t reach. AERIS grabs the sphere and holds it a few centimeters away from the wound. Slowly the sphere reacts with the damaged body part. The wound begins to heal.

 

CLOUD

Thank you.

 

AERIS

It’s no problem.

 

When the wound is semi healed CLOUD takes the sphere from AERIS and pockets it.

 

CLOUD

Who are you?

 

 

 

AERIS

Are you okay? You crashed through the roof and scared me.

 

CLOUD looks around.

 

CLOUD

Where am I?

 

AERIS

A church in the Sector 5 slums.

 

AERIS helps CLOUD to his feet. The two walk over to a pew and sit down. CLOUD looks up at the hole he made in the ceiling.

 

CLOUD

So I came crashing down?

 

AERIS

Yeah. The roof and flower bed broke your fall. You’re lucky to be alive.

 

CLOUD

Sorry if I wrecked your flowers.

 

AERIS

It’s okay. These flowers are quite resilient.

 

AERIS gets up and goes to tend her some flattened flowers.

 

AERIS

(CONT.)

They say you can’t grow flowers in Midgar. But for some reason, flowers have no problem blooming here.

 

(BEAT)

 

I love it here. It’s so peaceful.

 

CLOUD

You love living in the slums?

 

AERIS

I don’t really have a choice.

 

AERIS looks up at CLOUD and smiles.

 

AERIS

You know it just occurred to me. We don’t know each other’s names.

 

CLOUD

The name’s CLOUD.

 

AERIS

Nice to meet you CLOUD. I’m AERIS.

 

FREEZE FRAME:

 

“AERIS GAINSBOROUGH”

“Flower girl of the slums and last surviving Ancient”

appears on the screen

 

REAL TIME

 

AERIS

(CONT.)

So what do you do for a living, CLOUD?

 

CLOUD

A little bit of everything.

 

AERIS

A jack of all trades then.

 

CLOUD suddenly realizes his sword is missing. He quickly scans the room

 

CLOUD

What happened to my sword?

 

AERIS

(pointing to east wall)

I put it over there.

 

CLOUD walks over to relinquish his weapon, when the large wooden doors swing open silently. Both CLOUD and AERIS are unaware to a man who has just entered the church. The man wears blue jacket with a white undershirt, blue trousers, and a bandana across his forehead. He has semi-long red hair and boyish features to his face. He is RENO of the Turks.

 

RENO walks to the back pew and sits down. He takes out a cigarette and lights it and then begins to watch AERIS and CLOUD.

 

CLOUD

(sheathing his sword)

I suppose I should thank you.

 

AERIS

For what?

 

CLOUD

Being here when I got up.

 

There is then the traditional uncomfortable silence. Both CLOUD and AERIS stand motionless with nothing more to say. RENO continues to look on from the back.

 

AERIS

Say, you want to walk me home?

 

CLOUD

Walk you home? Are you in trouble with SHINRA or something?

 

AERIS

Something like that.

 

(BEAT)

 

So will you.

 

CLOUD

(jokingly)

I don’t know. It’ll cost you.

 

AERIS

It’ll cost me? Cost me what?

 

CLOUD

What’ve you got?

 

AERIS stops and jokingly ponders. She looks CLOUD in the eyes and finds an answer.

 

AERIS

How about if we go out on a date later?

 

CLOUD

(surprised)

A date?

 

AERIS

Yeah. You do know what one is don’t you?

 

CLOUD

Of course.

 

AERIS

Then what’ya say? Do you accept?

 

CLOUD

(BEAT)

Alright, works for me.

 

AERIS

Great! You’ll be my special bodyguard for today then.

 

The two briefly stare into each other’s eyes, when RENO finally speaks.

 

RENO (OS)

That’s it?

 

CLOUD and AERIS turn to face him.

 

RENO

(CONT.)

My, my, my I was expecting at least a make out scene.

 

CLOUD

Who are you?

 

AERIS

That’s RENO of the Turks.

 

FREEZE FRAME:

 

“RENO”

“Member of elite Shinra secret service, the Turks”

 

REAL TIME

 

RENO stands up and extinguishes his cigarette on the floor.

 

RENO

It’s nice to be recognized.

 

(BEAT)

 

Oh and hello AERIS. Where did you find this guy?

 

CLOUD, angered, walks toward RENO. As he walks three SHINRA SOLDIERS charge into the room with guns in hand. Naturally, CLOUD stops.

 

RENO

I’d watch that temper.

 

SHINRA SOLDIER #6

You want us to take this guy out?

 

RENO

I haven’t decided yet.

 

AERIS

Don’t fight here.

 

RENO looks into CLOUD’S eyes and sees the strange glow.

 

 

RENO

Are you from SOLDIER?

 

CLOUD

I was.

 

RENO

So you’re a traitor then, eh. Well consider yourself lucky my friend. I’m not here for you.

 

CLOUD

What do you want, then?

 

RENO

I’m here for AERIS.

 

CLOUD quickly whips his sword out of its holster.

 

CLOUD

You’re not taking anybody.

 

The SHINRA SOLDIERS tense up and move a few paces further with their guns still raised and aimed at CLOUD.

 

RENO

(to SOLDIERS)

Easy.

 

(to CLOUD)

 

I was hoping to do this the easy way. But if you insist.

 

CLOUD gets in a battle stance and stares down RENO. AERIS grabs CLOUD’S shoulder holding him back. She leans forward to whisper in his ear.

 

AERIS

(whispering)

There’s an exit in the back.

 

CLOUD smirks to himself and begins to swing

(MORE)

his sword wildly hitting nothing but air.

The distraction causes the soldiers to trip over themselves and fall allowing CLOUD and AERIS to run for the back.

 

RENO

Dammit!

 

(to SOLDIERS)

 

Get them! And don’t step on the flowers!

 

The soldiers begin their chase after CLOUD and AERIS. RENO opens his coat and pulls out a silenced pistol. He then joins the chase, only he tramples all over AERIS’ flower bed.

 

INT. SECTOR 5 CHURCH – BACK ROOM – DAY

 

CLOUD and AERIS run into a large dark back room. The sounds of SOLDIERS running can be heard. They are short on time. AERIS sees the back exit and runs to the door. She turns to the doorknob only to find that it is locked.

 

AERIS

It’s locked!

 

CLOUD quickly searches the room for an alternative exit. He looks up and sees a medium sized hole in the ceiling.

 

CLOUD

There!

 

AERIS and CLOUD start running up a wooden flight of stairs that lead to the balcony of the room. Meanwhile RENO and the SHINRA SOLDIERS burst into the room. The SOLDIERS open fire on the two as they run up the stairs.

 

RENO

Hold your fire! You’ll kill the Ancient.

 

RENO and his thugs begin to follow CLOUD and AERIS up the stairs. By the time they make half way up, CLOUD and AERIS have reached the top. CLOUD looks and sees the pursuers. He notices a dust wooden barrel next to the stairs. He grabs it and kicks it down the stairs. The rolling barrel hits the SOLDIERS and RENO knocking them all the way back down the stairs.

 

CLOUD

Hurry.

 

CLOUD and AERIS run a few paces to the hole in the ceiling, which is six feet above the balcony. AERIS jumps but can’t reach.

 

AERIS

I can’t reach it.

 

CLOUD holsters his sword and boosts AERIS up through the hole and onto the church roof. CLOUD follows.

 

EXT. SECTOR 5 SLUMS – CHURCH ROOFTOP – DAY

 

CLOUD finishes climbing out of the hole and onto the church roof. He stops to catch his breath. AERIS, meanwhile, starts to climb down. CLOUD stops her.

 

CLOUD

Wait.

 

He then crawls over the edge of the roof and looks over. Seconds later, RENO and the SOLDIERS burst out from the entrance below. They look around and see that CLOUD and AERIS are nowhere to be found.

 

RENO

Where are they?

 

SHINRA SOLDIER #6

Sir, the Ancient’s probably found refuge in the slums.

 

RENO

We must find her. Search the slums thoroughly.

 

RENO’S cell phone rings. He reaches in his coat and answers it.

 

RENO

(into the phone)

This is RENO.

 

A he pauses as an unheard voice speaks to him for a few seconds.

 

RENO

(into the phone)

Are you serious?

 

The voice speaks again briefly.

 

RENO

(into the phone)

Yes, sir. I’m on my way now.

 

RENO hangs up the phone and puts it away.

 

RENO

(to SOLDIERS)

Don’t stop searching the slum until you find her. I won’t be joining you. It seems PRESIDENT SHINRA has a job for me to do.

 

RENO leaves one way, whereas the SOLDIERS go an opposite direction. When they are all gone CLOUD and AERIS begin their descent from the roof.

 

EXT. SECTOR 5 SLUMS – OUTSIDE CHURCH – DAY

 

CLOUD has jumped off the roof and helps AERIS down.

 

AERIS

Thanks CLOUD. I can’t believe their after me again.

 

CLOUD

You mean this wasn’t the first time?

 

AERIS

No.

 

CLOUD

Why would RENO, a Turk, want you?

 

AERIS

I don’t know why SHINRA keeps sending the Turks. Is that all the Turks do is kidnap people.

 

CLOUD

No, they also act as SHINRA’S secret service. They do anything the corporation wants, murder, kidnapping, spying, espionage, the list is endless. They also recruit people to SOLDIER.

 

(BEAT)

 

But why are they after you? There has to be a reason.

 

AERIS

No, not really.

 

(jokingly)

 

Maybe they thought I had what it takes to be in SOLDIER.

 

CLOUD

Maybe.

 

(BEAT)

 

Come on, I’ll walk you home.

 

INT. SHINRA HQ – PRESIDENT’S OFFICE – DAY

 

We return to the office of PRESIDENT SHINRA. He has returned from his masquerade with AVALANCHE and is back in his office. He is sitting in his desk silently, when the door leading into the office opens. PALMER enters with a short fat man with black hair and a long black beard.

 

PALMER

Mr. PRESIDENT, HEIDEGGER has arrived.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA looks up at the fat man, whose name is HEIDEGGER.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

I’m glad you came.

 

He gets up from his desk and shakes HEIDEGGER’S hand.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA.

(CONT.)

Now how are the preparations going?

 

HEIDEGGER

Smoothly. I must applaud Vice President RUFUS. This plan was his brainchild, was it not?

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Indeed it was.

 

(BEAT)

 

I still don’t like it.

 

HEIDEGGER

If you’re worried about money, then don’t. All we have to do up the price of our Mako and we’ll make back everything in a matter of months.

 

 

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Maybe so, but think of what my son’s plan will do to SHINRA’S reputation.

 

HEIDEGGER

I see no harm to our reputation. We’ll just wait and see.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA sits back down at his desk.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

(BEAT)

So RUFUS assigned the Turks to the project?

 

HEIDEGGER

Correct. RENO is already on the project. He’ll reach the target by nightfall.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

Just see to it that nothing bad happens to us as a result of this.

 

HEIDEGGER

Yes sir.

 

EXT. SECTOR 6 SLUMS – STREETS – DAY

 

CLOUD and AERIS walk together down the streets of the Sector 6 slums. The Sector 6 slums are no different than Sector 7. The streets are still dirty and people live in whatever they can find. AERIS is a few meters behind CLOUD. She runs to catch up.

 

AERIS

(running)

Wait!

 

CLOUD stops and waits for her to catch up.

 

AERIS

You walk awfully fast.

 

 

CLOUD

(jokingly)

Funny, I thought you had what it takes to be in SOLDIER.

 

AERIS

(catching her breath)

You’re terrible!

 

(BEAT)

 

CLOUD,

 

(BEAT)

 

Where you ever in SOLDIER?

 

CLOUD

I used to be. How’d you guess?

 

AERIS

Your eyes, they have that strange glow.

 

CLOUD

That’s a sign of those who have been infused with Mako. It’s the mark of someone who’s been in SOLDIER.

 

AERIS

I see.

 

(BEAT)

 

So why’d you join SOLDIER?

 

CLOUD

It’s a long story.

 

AERIS

I’ve got plenty of time.

 

CLOUD smirks.

 

 

 

CLOUD

In short, I just wanted to be like SEPHIROTH.

 

AERIS

SEPHIROTH?

 

CLOUD

Yeah. I idolized him. In my eyes he was the greatest soldier to ever walk the planet.

 

AERIS

(BEAT)

Come on, my house is just down the block.

 

INT. AERIS’ HOUSE – MAIN ROOM – DAY

 

The door leading into AERIS’ house opens and both her and CLOUD walk in. There at the stove cooking is AERIS’ mother ELMYRA.

 

AERIS

I’m home mom!

 

ELMYRA puts down her utensils and looks at AERIS and the CLOUD.

 

AERIS

Oh this is CLOUD. He walked me home and is my bodyguard for today.

 

ELMYRA

Bodyguard? You mean you were followed again. Are you okay?

 

AERIS

I’m fine. CLOUD here helped me get away.

 

ELMYRA

Well I’m grateful, CLOUD.

 

CLOUD

It was nothing.

 

ELMYRA

Perhaps you can stay for dinner, CLOUD. It’ll be ready in about an hour.

 

CLOUD

Actually I’ve got to make my way to the Sector 7 slums.

 

AERIS

Why?

 

CLOUD

My friends think I’m dead.

 

ELMYRA

Why would they think that?

 

CLOUD sighs and walks over to the dinner table and sits down on a chair. AERIS joins him and sits in a chair as well.

 

CLOUD

I’m working with the rebel group, AVALANCHE. I was in SOLDIER, but quit. Now I’m a mercenary.

 

AERIS

Were you behind the Number 1 Reactor explosion?

 

CLOUD

Yeah.

 

(BEAT)

 

We had planned to blow the Number 5 Reactor this morning but it turned out to be a trap. I don’t even know if my friends are alive.

 

ELMYRA

You’re an enemy of SHINRA then.

 

CLOUD

If RENO knew who I was no doubt he would killed me.

 

AERIS

Let’s thankful that he didn’t.

 

ELMYRA

I still think you should stay. At least get some rest. We have an extra bedroom upstairs.

 

CLOUD

Thank you.

 

AERIS gets up from her chair.

 

AERIS

Come on, I’ll lead you to your room.

 

CLOUD gets up to follow AERIS.

 

INT. BEDROOM – AERIS’ HOUSE – DAY

 

The door opens and AERIS and CLOUD enter a small bedroom with only a bed and desk inside.

 

AERIS

Here you go. It’s not much.

 

CLOUD

It’s fine.

 

AERIS

Get some rest, and let that wound of yours heal some more.

 

CLOUD

I will.

 

AERIS

I’ll be down the hall if you need anything.

 

CLOUD

Thank you.

 

AERIS smiles and leaves the room and closes the door. CLOUD takes out his sword and perches it up against the wall. He then takes off his shirt and boots and lies on the bed. His eyes close.

 

FADE OUT

 

The screen is black as CLOUD sleeps. In the middle of his rest the DREAM VOICE returns to him.

 

DREAM VOICE (VO)

You seem pretty tired.

 

(BEAT)

 

I haven’t slept in a bed like this in a long time.

 

CLOUD

Yeah.

 

DREAM VOICE (VO)

Ever since that time…

 

INT. CLOUD’S HOUSE – DAY – DREAM SEQUENCE

 

FADE IN

 

A younger CLOUD is resting on his bed in his old one room house. CLOUD’S MOTHER is walking around the room preparing a meal.

 

CLOUD’S MOTHER

My how you’ve grown. I’ll bet the girls never leave you alone.

 

CLOUD

Not really.

 

CLOUD’S MOTHER stops and stares at her son who is still laying the bed staring at the ceiling.

 

 

 

CLOUD’S MOTHER

I’m worried about you. There are a lot of temptations in the city.

 

(BEAT)

 

I’d feel better if you settles down and had a nice girlfriend.

 

CLOUD

I’m fine by myself.

 

CLOUD’S MOTHER

You should have an older girlfriend, one that’ll take care of you. A girl like that’d be perfect for you.

 

CLOUD

I’m not interested.

 

INT. BEDROOM – AERIS’ HOUSE – DAY

 

CLOUD shoots up from his dream out of breath. After a few seconds he rubs his eyes and continues to catch his breath.

 

CLOUD

Damn dreams.

 

CLOUD gets up from the bed and put his clothes back on he grabs his sword, sheathes it, and exits the room.

 

INT. HALLWAY – AERIS’ HOUSE – DAY

 

As CLOUD walks down the hallway he notices AERIS asleep in her room. He stops and stares at her.

 

CLOUD

(whispering)

I’m sorry.

 

He continues walking. He walks to the end of the hallway and down the stairs back to the main room.

 

INT. MAIN ROOM – AERIS HOUSE – DAY

 

CLOUD quickly makes his way for the door when ELMYRA’S voice stops him.

 

ELMYRA

Leaving so soon? You’ve only been asleep for a half-hour.

 

CLOUD

I don’t want to take AERIS to the Sector 7 slums. I can’t put her in danger.

 

ELMYRA

I agree. You’re a fugitive to SHINRA.

 

CLOUD

(BEAT)

Why is SHINRA after AERIS? What’d she do?

 

ELMYRA

It’s a very long story. Basically they want her because she’s an Ancient.

 

Before CLOUD can speak AERIS walks downstairs.

 

AERIS

CLOUD! Were you planning on leaving without me?

 

CLOUD

I can’t put you in danger. SHINRA could be all over the Sector 7 slums.

 

AERIS

I’m used to danger. Besides you need someone who knows their way around.

 

 

ELMYRA

AERIS, CLOUD is right.

 

AERIS

Mom, please! I don’t want to spend my whole life running. I want to live!

 

ELMYRA

(BEAT)

Then you be careful.

 

AERIS

Thanks, mom.

 

(to CLOUD)

 

So where we going?

 

CLOUD

A bar my friend TIFA owns. It’s called 7^th Heaven.

 

AERIS

Is TIFA,

 

(BEAT)

 

A girl?

 

CLOUD

Yeah.

 

AERIS

A girlfriend?

 

CLOUD

Girlfriend? No. We grew up together.

 

ELMYRA

Do I detect jealousy?

 

AERIS

(blushing)

Mom!

 

CLOUD

Don’t worry about it. We should get going.

 

AERIS

Right.

 

ELMYRA

You two be careful.

 

CLOUD and AERIS leave.

 

INT. SHINRA HQ – PRESIDENT’S OFFICE – DAY

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA sits at his desk working on some papers. The door opens and REEVE, a SHINRA executive with semi-long brown hair and a beard, enters the room. He stands in front of PRESIDENT SHINRA.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

(looking at his papers)

What can I do for you REEVE?

 

REEVE

Mr. PRESIDENT, it’s about this retaliatory strike against AVALANCHE.

 

PRESIDNET SHINRA

(looking up at REEVE)

What about it?

 

REEVE

I’m worried about it.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

You want out?

 

REEVE

No, but as head of the Urban Development Department, it’ll be quite difficult and costly to rebuild the damage this strike will create.

 

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

I share your concern. However I trust my son RUFUS. I trust this plan will rid SHINRA of AVALANCHE one and for all.

 

REEVE

The mayor is against this plan anyway.

 

PRESIDENT SHINRA

The mayor? He’s just a figurehead. SHINRA’S got the real power. We own this city while the mayor stuffs his face everyday.

 

(BEAT)

 

Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a lot of papers to get through.

 

REEVE

Yes sir.

 

REEVE walks away.

 

EXT. SECTOR 6 SLUMS – STREETS – DAY

 

AERIS and CLOUD walk down the streets of the Sector 6 slums. As usual, homeless men and women walk around aimlessly.

 

AERIS

I wish I could do something to help these people.

 

CLOUD

Not much you can do. SHINRA owns these people and they control their fates.

 

AERIS

These people have no idea what’s beyond Midgar. They don’t know how pure the outside world is.

 

Suddenly a disabled HOMESLESS MAN dressed in rags walks up to CLOUD and AERIS. The man grabs CLOUD by the shirt helplessly.

 

HOMELESS MAN #2

Please sir. Have you nothing to spare?

 

CLOUD attempts to gently shake the MAN off but he doesn’t budge.

 

CLOUD

I haven’t got anything.

 

HOMELESS MAN #2

I beg of you!

 

CLOUD

I don’t have anything.

 

The HOMESLESS MAN’S hand slowly slides into CLOUD’S pocket. The man feels the envelope filled with cash and begins to pull it out. CLOUD feels the MAN and in a flash he violently throws the man down to the ground.

 

AERIS

CLOUD!

 

The HOMELESS MAN gets up and limps off with CLOUD’S money. CLOUD runs a few paces and tackles the man to the ground. CLOUD attempts to grab the envelope back but the MAN has a tight grip on it. CLOUD then punches the man hard in the face three times. He drops the envelope and CLOUD picks it up.

 

AERIS

(to CLOUD)

What are you doing!?

 

CLOUD pockets the money while AERIS runs to the HOMESLESS MAN, who now has a bloody nose. She bends down to tend to the man.

 

AERIS

I’m sorry.

 

AERIS wiped the blood from the MAN’S face and helps him sit up.

 

AERIS

(digging in her chest pocket)

Here.

 

She pulls out a few coins and hands them to the MAN. The MAN’S face lights up as he grabs the money.

 

HOMELESS MAN #2

Bless your heart, Miss.

 

AERIS helps the MAN to his feet. When the MAN stands up he sees CLOUD with his hand extended. In his hand are a few bills of cash.

 

CLOUD

I’m sorry.

 

The HOMELESS MAN is reluctant at first but takes the money from CLOUD.

 

HOMELESS MAN #2

Thank you.

 

CLOUD and AERIS watch as the HOMELESS MAN limps away to his wife and child who saw the whole scene. When the homeless family disappears into the darkness, AERIS looks at CLOUD.

 

CLOUD

What?

 

AERIS

I can’t believe you.

 

CLOUD

I said I was sorry, plus I gave him some money.

 

 

AERIS

I suppose so.

 

CLOUD

Listen, I don’t blame the guy for what he did. If I lived in this hellhole, I’d be the same way.

 

AERIS

It’s all SHINRA’S fault.

 

CLOUD

I know.

 

(BEAT)

 

We should get going. Lead the way.

 

EXT. SECTOR 6 SLUMS – PLAYGROUND – DUSK

 

CLOUD and AERIS walk into a deserted playground in the Sector 6 slums. The play equipment is rusted and deteriorated. Just a few yards north is a large gate.

 

AERIS

(pointing at the gate)

The Sector 7 slums are through there.

 

CLOUD

Thanks.

 

(BEAT)

 

Well, I guess this is good-bye then. Are you going to be alright walking home?

 

AERIS

(sarcastically)

Oh no, whatever will I do in such a dangerous place?

 

AERIS laughs.

 

 

AERIS

Take me to Sector 7.

 

CLOUD

Why do you want to come with me?

 

AERIS

I haven’t had this much fun in a long time.

 

(BEAT)

 

Come on, I won’t be in your way.

 

CLOUD

What do you mean?

 

AERIS

Nothing.

 

CLOUD

We should get going then.

 

As they walk AERIS’ face lights up when she sees one of the slides. The slide is shaped like an animal with the tongue as the slide.

 

AERIS

(running toward the slide)

I can’t believe it’s still here.

 

CLOUD

What?

 

AERIS climbs up onto the slide.

 

AERIS

Come on up CLOUD!

 

CLOUD follows AERIS up and sits next to her on the slide. Before speaking the two stare at the environment around them.

 

AERIS

CLOUD?

 

 

CLOUD

Yeah.

 

AERIS

What rank were you?

 

CLOUD

Rank?

 

AERIS

You know, in SOLDIER.

 

CLOUD

I was,

 

(BEAT)

 

First Class.

 

AERIS

The same as him.

 

CLOUD

Who?

 

AERIS

My first boyfriend.

 

CLOUD

I see.

 

(BEAT)

 

Were you serious?

 

AERIS

No, but I liked him a lot.

 

CLOUD

I probably knew him. What’s his name?

 

AERIS shifts her seating uncomfortably.

 

AERIS

It doesn’t really matter.

 

The two share a moment a silence when the gates leading into the Sector 7 slums open. An elegant red carriage pulled by a large ostrich-like bird, called a chocobo. As the carriage turns CLOUD notices TIFA is inside of it wearing an exquisite purple dress.

 

CLOUD

TIFA?

 

AERIS

The girl in the cart is TIFA?

 

AERIS jumps off the slide and begins to pursue the wagon.

 

CLOUD

What are you doing?

 

Cloud jumps off the slide.

 

CLOUD

(CONT.)

Aeris, I’ll go alone. You go home.

 

Aeris ignores Cloud and continues to follow the carriage.

 

CLOUD

Where are you going?

 

AERIS

The Wall Market’s this way! It had be where the carriage is going.

 

Cloud sighs follows Aeris to--

 

EXT. WALL MARKET – NIGHT

 

The market is filled with businesses running out of small tents. It is one of the heavier populated places in the slums.

 

CLOUD

Aeris, go home. I’ll handle this.

 

She ignores him.

 

CLOUD

(Aeris scans the market)

Do you know where Tifa’s headed?

 

AERIS

It’s hard to tell, but I’ve seen carriages head to the Honey Bee Inn.

 

CLOUD

Honey Bee Inn?

 

AERIS

It’s a sex hotel.

 

CLOUD

A sex hotel!? We’ve got to find Tifa. Where is this Honey Bee Inn?

 

AERIS

(pointing)

There.

 

Cloud and Aeris walk toward the brink pink building.

 

EXT. WALL MARKET – OUTSIDE HONEY BEE INN – NIGHT

 

Cloud and Aeris walk through the crowd toward the entrance of the hotel. He meets the HONEY BEE INN GUARD, a husky man dressed in a purple velvet suit.

 

HONEY BEE INN GUARD

Can I help you?

 

CLOUD

I’d like to get in.

 

HONEY BEE INN GUARD

(gazing at his clipboard)

Your name?

 

CLOUD

I’m not on the list.

 

HONEY BEE INN GUARD

I’m sorry sir you can’t get in. You’ll have to wait like everyone else.

 

CLOUD

Can you at least tell me if you’ve seen a girl with long brown hair and wearing a purple dress?

 

HONEY BEE INN GUARD

I’ve seen lots of girls.

 

CLOUD

Do you know the one I mean, then?

 

HONEY BEE INN GUARD

Oh yes. She was taken to Don Corneo’s mansion.

 

CLOUD

Don Corneo?

 

HONEY BEE INN GUARD

Please move aside sir, I’ve got a business running here.

 

Cloud walks back to Aeris.

 

CLOUD

Who’s Don Corneo?

 

AERIS

His business is the slums. He makes money off these people like a vulture. He owns virtually everything here.

 

CLOUD

A crime lord.

 

(BEAT)

 

I see.

 

AERIS

His place is just north of here.

 

CLOUD

Well then, let’s go.

 

INT. DON CORNEO’S MANSION – OFFICE – NIGHT

 

DON CORNEO sits at his desk dressed in a silk red robe. Corneo is a fat man with aging golden hair.

 

DON CORNEO

What’s in it for me?

 

TSENG of the Turks emerges from off screen.

 

TSENG

One-hundred thousand gil.

 

DON CORNEO

That much! You must really want this girl.

 

TSENG

You have no idea of her importance to Shinra.

 

(BEAT)

 

Do you accept?

 

Corneo looks at a photograph on his desk. One that Tseng gave him.

 

DON CORNEO

Alright. I’ll get her for you.

 

TSENG

Remember, her name’s Aeris Gainsborough. She could be involved with AVALANCHE.

 

DON CORNEO

I understand.

 

TSENG

Good. Now I know your whores are waiting to see you so I’ll depart.

 

EXT. WALL MARKET – OUTSIDE CORNEO MANSION - NIGHT

 

Cloud and Aeris meet the BODYGUARD guarding the entrance into Don Corneo’s mansion.

 

CLOUD

(sincere)

Hi there.

 

BODYGUARD

What do you want?

 

CLOUD

I want to talk to Don Corneo.

 

BODYGUARD

Impossible. You’re not allowed inside.

 

CLOUD

Why not?

 

BODYGUARD

Because you sir are a man. Don Corneo doesn’t swing that way. You catch what I’m saying.

 

CLOUD

Yeah I got ya’.

 

BODYGUARD

However,

 

The Bodyguard walks a few steps toward Aeris.

 

BODYGUARD

(CONT.)

Your lady friend here is most welcome.

 

The Bodyguard leans in and sniffs Aeris. He sighs as if aroused by the scent.

 

BODYGUARD

Would you like to come in?

 

AERIS

I think I’d rather not.

 

CLOUD

Ignore that!

 

Cloud moves into whisper into Aeris’ ear.

 

CLOUD

(whisper)

Go in.

 

AERIS

Why?

 

CLOUD

(whisper)

It’ll give me an opportunity to get inside.

 

(to BODYGUARD)

 

She’ll go in.

 

BODYGUARD

Excellent. The boss will be most pleased.

 

Uneasy, Aeris walks toward the entrance. The Bodyguard escorts her.

 

BODYGUARD

Tonight the boss has a threesome!

 

INT. CORNEO MANSION – NIGHT

 

The Bodyguard escorts Aeris to a door way the leads down stairs. Just as she exits off screen, Tseng walks down from the second floor and out the door.

 

EXT. OUTSIDE CORNEO MANSION – NIGHT

 

Cloud is scanning the building for another way inside when he sees Tseng. Cloud stops and watches from the shadows as Tseng lights a cigarette. After a few puffs he walks away.

 

INT. BASEMENT – CORNEO MANSION – NIGHT

 

Aeris finds herself in the basement of the Corneo Mansion. Aeris sees a girl standing in the corner. She notices it’s Tifa.

 

AERIS

Tifa?

 

Tifa looks at Aeris.

 

TIFA

Who are you?

 

AERIS

My name’s Aeris, Aeris Gainsborough. I’m with Cloud.

 

TIFA

Cloud! He’s alive?

 

AERIS

Very much so. He’s told me a lot about you. We’ve been through quite a lot today.

 

TIFA

(jealous)

I see.

 

Aeris senses Tifa’s emotions.

 

AERIS

It’s not like that. We just met.

 

TIFA

Anyway, where’s Cloud?

 

AERIS

Trying to find a way inside.

 

Beat.

 

AERIS

What’ll happen when Don Corneo calls for us.

TIFA

What does every guy do when two beautiful women are in his presence?

 

AERIS

I see.

 

From off screen the Bodyguard speaks.

 

BODYGUARD (O.S.)

It’s time ladies!

 

The two girls look up and slowly begin the ascent up the stairs.

 

EXT. OUTSIDE CORNEO MANSION – NIGHT

 

With Tseng gone, Cloud makes himself visible from the shadows. He looks through a small window and sees the Bodyguard with Aeris and Tifa. The two are lined up next to each other. Cloud gently pushes the window and sees that it’s not locked.

 

INT. CORNEO MANSION – MAIN ROOM – NIGHT

 

Aeris and Tifa watch as an overweight man walks down from the second floor. It is Don Corneo. Corneo gazes at the girls.

 

DON CORNEO

(to Bodyguard)

You’ve made me a happy man.

 

BODYGUARD

I’m sure you’ll be pleased, sir.

 

Corneo moves in on Tifa’s face.

 

DON CORNEO

What a beautiful girl you are.

 

TIFA

Thanks.

 

Corneo moves in on Aeris.

 

DON CORNEO

And you,

 

(BEAT)

 

You get my blood curdling. I cannot wait to have you too.

 

Aeris doesn’t respond. Corneo suddenly realizes Aeris is the one that Tseng told him about.

 

DON CORNEO

You, you’re wanted by Shinra. As soon as I’m done with you you’re going straight to President Shinra.

 

(BEAT)

 

Well then, come. My bedroom is upstairs.

 

BODYGUARD

As always sir, I get the girls when you’re through?

 

DON CORNEO

Of course. I’m not a very generous man, but I know when to share the wealth.

 

BODYGUARD

Thank you sir.

 

The Bodyguard watches as Corneo, Aeris, and Tifa disappear up to the second floor. As soon as they’re gone Cloud’s arm grabs the Bodyguard from behind. He begins to choke the Bodyguard.

 

BODYGUARD

(choking)

You!

 

CLOUD

That’s right. Me!

 

In a sudden jerk, Cloud snaps the man’s neck killing him.

 

INT. CORNEO MANSION – BEDROOM – NIGHT

 

Don Corneo, Aeris, and Tifa are in Corneo’s

(MORE)

bedroom. A large bed with silk sheets awaits them. Corneo takes off his robe and lies on the bed.

 

DON CORNEO

Come ladies. I’m waiting.

 

Aeris is hesitant, but Tifa sensually moves onto the bed on all fours. She smiles crawls over to Corneo. She licks his cheek with the tip of her tongue.

 

DON CORNEO

Oh yes!

 

(to Aeris)

 

You too, come.

 

Aeris slowly walks toward the bed. Meanwhile Tifa nibbles on Corneo’s ear. Corneo’s hand slowly moves up Tifa’s thigh. Aeris lies next to Corneo.

 

DON CORNEO

This is the best day of my life.

 

As he moves into kiss Tifa, the door slams open. As soon as Corneo looks Cloud’s sword flies through the air and crashes into the wall, no more than an inch about Corneo’s head.

 

CLOUD (O.S.)

Game’s over.

 

Cloud walks in the room. Then Tifa and Aeris both roll off the bed to join him. Tifa hugs Cloud.

 

TIFA

You’re alive!

 

CLOUD

Just barely. We came here to rescue you.

 

DON CORNEO

What’s this?

 

TIFA

Shut up! We’re asking the questions here.

 

 

DON CORNEO

So this was a setup, eh?

 

AERIS

That’s right.

 

DON CORNEO

I see.

 

Cloud retrieves his sword and holds it inches from Corneo’s head.

 

TIFA

Why were your men in the Sector 7 slums?

 

DON CORNEO

(to Aeris)

I should have called Shinra the second I saw you.

 

TIFA

Shut up and answer the question!

 

DON CORNEO

If I refuse?

 

CLOUD

I’ll cut off your most prized part of your body.

 

DON CORNEO

Ha! Like hell you will!

 

Tifa leans in and squeezes Corneo’s “package” as hard as she can. Corneo grits his teeth in pain.

 

TIFA

Tell us, or I’ll rip them off.

 

DON CORNEO

Okay, okay. It was Heidegger.

 

Tifa releases.

 

DON CORNEO

(CONT.)

Heidegger, Shinra’s Head of Public Safety and Maintenance.

 

AERIS

What’s Shinra planning?

 

DON CORNEO

I can’t tell you that!

 

AERIS

Tell us!

 

DON CORNEO

I’ll be killed!

 

AERIS

Tell us, or I’ll smash them.

 

DON CORNEO

Fine, just don’t do anything drastic.

 

(BEAT)

 

They’re carrying out a retaliatory strike against AVALANCHE. They destroyed a reactor now they’re going to pay.

 

 

CLOUD

What are they going to do?

 

DON CORNEO

They’re going crush the Sector 7 slums, literally.

 

CLOUD

Crush them? How?

 

DON CORNEO

The plate above the city. Their going to destroy the pillar holding it up and that portion of the plate will come crashing down.

 

AERIS

We can’t let that happen!

 

TIFA

The entire sector will be destroyed along with all the people! Cloud, we’ve got to stop it.

 

CLOUD

You’re right. When is the attack?

 

DON CORNEO

Right now.

 

TIFA

We have to hurry! Come on!

 

Cloud holsters his sword.

 

CLOUD

(to CORNEO)

Be lucky I didn’t kill you.

 

Before the three can leave Corneo speaks.

 

DON CORNEO

How do you think scum like me feel when the babble the truth?

 

 

CLOUD

They’re sure they’ll win.

 

DON CORNEO

Exactly.

 

Corneo reaches for a switch and presses it. The floor beneath Cloud, Aeris, and Tifa collapses and the three plummet down. The trap door returns to the floor position when the three have been “disposed” of. Corneo reaches for his phone and dials a number.

 

DON CORNEO (ON PHONE)

Tseng, that girl is head toward the Sector 7 slums!

 

INT. SEWERS – NIGHT

 

Cloud, Aeris, and Tifa fall into the dirty sewer water. They quickly get up.

 

TIFA

We’ve got to get to the Sector 7 Slums!

 

CLOUD

I know.

 

AERIS

We have to stop them! The support pillar isn’t far. We can make it.

 

CLOUD

Let’s go.

 

The three trudge through the water on their way to the Sector 7 Slums to stop the attack.

 

FADE OUT

 

THE END