PAGE TWELVE

Panel One: Back to our world, specifically Sama's BEDROOM. Jake, in many ways I think you should hold off drawing this room until the entire script is finished. I'd love to see details of the Undertown world scattered throughout the room: in the posters on the wall, toys on the floor, etc.

Sama is an unhappy kid. He is definitely NOT spoiled. I don't see this family living in squalor, but Sama's room is not going to be buried under in expensive toys.

In this panel, Sama is sitting up in bed. His mom is bending over to pick up a stray toy. She holds her lower back with one hand, showing her weariness and exhaustion.

1/SAMA: How long does Dad have to be in the hospital?

2/MOM: Hopefully not too long, honey. They just want to make sure he's all right.

Panel Two: Mom tussles Sama's hair; he squirms under her hand. He thinks he's too old for this treatment -- Mom always treats him like a baby.

The phone rings.

3/SAMA: Is he still mad at me?

4/MOM: Don't be silly, Sama. He's not mad.

5/SFX: RIIIING

Panel Three: Mom steps out of the room and closes the door behind her. Her head still pokes through the door, as her fingers are on the light switch. Sama is frowning in bed -- not pouting, just sad because he knows things aren't right.

The phone still rings.

6/MOM: Go on, now. Lights out. I want you asleep when I get off the phone.

7/SFX: RIIIING

Panel Four: Small panel. Sama cautiously peeks out of his bedroom door. He looks one way down the hall...

Panel Five: ... then he looks the other way. Coast is clear!