Giacomo Giammatteo
22018 Thorngrove Lane
Spring, TX 77389
(281) 370-2233 [email protected]
DARK SCREEN:
FADE IN:
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
The Slicer's Whisper
INT. VALLAH — GREAT HALL — DAY
AENTARRA (30s looking; beautiful; long, dark hair; a devious
smile; and eyes that see through a person) walks briskly down
the Great Path. The heels of her leather boots slap noisily
on the marble floors, echoing through the hallway.
She passes rows of columns as wide as a man is tall, then
turns left when she reaches the end of the corridor.
A pair of double doors stand before her and, as Aentarra
approaches, she closes her eyes and concentrates. The doors
open slowly and silently with no more than a thought.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS — CONTINUOUS
She walks into a large room, walls covered in ancient artwork
of immeasurable value. In the center of the room sits a table
a span (20') wide, carved from a single piece of a blackthorn
tree. It is surrounded by thirteen chairs carved from the
same tree as the table.
Aentarra chews her fingernails and paces while ignoring the
ten people seated at the table. She slips, then looks down to
see a small pool of blood pooled under DeNorta’s chair.
AENTARRA
We can’t have this.
She bends to clean a spot of blood, then walks to the nearest
chair, the one occupied by the HEIR TO HOUSE D'NORTA (looks
40s, dark hair, elegant). She takes hold of a SLICER (thin as
a strand of hair, crystal-like) barely protruding from his
head.
The Slicer glows when she touches it, and a low WHIRRING
sound emanates from the shard. She holds on until the glow
disappears and the sound dissipates. She then moves to the
next person and repeats the process.
When she finishes the last one, she exits the room. The doors
close quietly behind her.
AENTARRA (CONT’D)
(to self)
It won’t be long, Lukaan. Not long
at all.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Frustration in the Desert
EXT. SETHIAN DESERT — DAY
Mountains surround a valley filled with cacti and scrub
brush. The air is hot and dry, the sands are scorching, and
the terrain is barren.
A lone figure, LUKAAN (looks 40s, chiseled features, fierce
determination, the kind of man who shows no mercy), appears
seemingly out of nowhere and stands alone in the desert.
He focuses on a spot in the distance, then raises his hands
and shoots bolts of lightning at an imagined target. Then he
shoots Blackfire (hotter than normal fire) from his hands,
but it seems to hit an invisible wall.
He scowls and turns to another spot and repeats the process
with the same result.
LUKAAN
(to himself)
Just like Antar's manor —
impenetrable.
Snow sits on the distant mountains, taunting him with its
cool moisture, while pitiless winds tear granules of sand
from the parched earth and slap the loose ends of a death-
black cloak against his calves.
Lukaan grits his teeth and closes his eyes. The air ripples
and the ground shakes, then Lukaan Shifts (teleports).
Genres:
["Fantasy"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
The Command of Destruction
INT. SETHIA — PALACE OF THE SUN — THRONE ROOM — DAY
Lukaan sits on a throne in a large room with marble floors
and columns. An eerie mist slinks across the floor and wraps
around the columns, then curls around his legs.
From somewhere in the distance, a GONG sounds, and MELISSARA
(looks 30s, accommodating yet defiant and firm) enters, her
head held low, blonde hair dusting the floor.
She quickly glances at Lukaan, surrounded by a near-blinding
aura of light. She bows lower, then kneels.
MELISSARA
You summoned me, Lord?
LUKAAN
I can still sense the boy. I want
him captured. Or dead.
MELISSARA
I will see it is done.
LUKAAN
Do it quickly. And inform the Victa
commander to destroy all three
villages. If the boy survives,
bring him to me. If not ...
MELISSARA
And show your hand so soon?
LUKAAN
I would destroy a hundred villages
to see him dead.
Melissara's hair brushes the marble floor as she backs out.
She waits until she reaches the exit before standing.
LUKAAN (CONT’D)
Remember, the boy must die, or be
brought to me.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
The Watchful Eyes
INT. TAVERN IN BARCLAEN — NIGHT
RHAVEN (late 30s, intense, a man on a mission who isn't
deterred by anything) slowly sips ale from a tall mug. Thick
candles adorn each table, and smoke from pipe tobacco
clusters in the corners.
FOUR MEN (one tall and lanky, one full-bearded, one scarred
on the face, and one missing teeth, all in their 30s) sit at
a corner table surreptitiously watching Rhaven as he eats.
Rhaven glances at the men while he reaches to scratch his
ear, a piece of which is missing. He pushes his plate to the
center of the table and wraps both hands around his mug.
Rhaven drains the mug, then calls the SERVING GIRL (young,
cheery, hair tied in bun). He places two coppers on the table
by his plate.
RHAVEN
The men at the corner table by the
door, have you seen them before?
SERVING GIRL
Not in here or anywhere else.
Rhaven nods, and each time he takes a sip, he looks around
the tavern and pays special attention to the men at the
corner table.
Before he finishes his ale, two of the men head look at him,
then head toward the exit.
A third one pushes his chair back, catching it on an upturned
flooring plank, and then follows the others, leaving the
fourth man alone at the table.
Rhaven watches them go, places two more coppers on the table
for his ale, then stands and leaves.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Ambush in the Alley
EXT. BARCLAEN — ALLEY OUTSIDE TAVERN — NIGHT
Rhaven exits the tavern, looks both ways, then turns right
into a dank, dark cobblestone alley that reeks of urine. It’s
covered in dirt, and glass from broken bottles. Ten paces in,
his hands twitch and his senses go on alert.
Two of the men who were in the tavern (scarred one and
bearded one) approach from a spot where the alley narrows. As
they draw closer, they reach for their swords.
Rhaven draws a knife from a strap inside his cloak and throws
it, striking the first man in the chest. The man gasps,
staggers back, and fumbles to remove the blade.
Rhaven rushes forward and plunges a sai (trident-shaped
weapon used for offense and defense) into the second man's
throat. The man’s gasp echoes in the silence of the alley.
Behind him, the sound of someone stepping on glass alerts
Rhaven, and he spins, drawing his other sai. The third man
(missing teeth) draws his sword and attacks. Rhaven disarms
him, using the sai to twist the sword from his hand, then
stabs him through the ribs and into the heart.
The fourth man (lanky) rounds the corner just as the third
man falls. He turns to escape, but Rhaven draws another knife
from a boot sheath and throws it, catching the man in the
back of the leg.
The man collapses and crawls to the wall where he props
himself up. Rhaven approaches him slowly.
RHAVEN
Why were you after me?
FOURTH MAN
The reward. We needed money.
RHAVEN
You needed better information. I'm
no longer wanted.
Rhaven shoves his sai into the man's chest, wipes it clean on
his shirt, and leaves, his black cloak swirling as he walks
toward the street.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Tension on Main Street
EXT. MAIN STREET — BARCLAEN
Three horses charge past. TWO MEN dismount and enter the
tavern while the THIRD MAN (30s, worn and dusty) remains with
the mounts.
THIRD MAN
Victas are in Kamnor, heading
toward Twin Forks.
RHAVEN
Time to leave Barclaen.
THIRD MAN
No need, mister. They'll never get
here. Not with the Sykorans so
close.
RHAVEN
I know.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Midnight Preparations
INT. STABLE IN BARCLAEN — NIGHT
Rhaven enters the stable, tosses a coin to the half-asleep
STABLE BOY (12 years old, eager, skinny) and gestures to the
rear of the barn.
RHAVEN
I need my mount.
The boy bounces to his feet and stammers a reply.
STABLE BOY
Sorry, sir. I wasn't ... I mean, I
didn't —
RHAVEN
Nothing wrong with sleeping, boy.
Just get the mount ready fast, and
you might earn an extra copper.
Rhaven grabs the blanket and saddle, then walks ARGUS (huge
black stallion with confident strut) out of the barn. The
stable boy trails him like a day-old duckling.
EXT. BARCLAEN — OUTSIDE STABLE — NIGHT
Rhaven seats himself in the saddle, holds the reins with one
hand, and tosses a silver coin to the boy. He then clicks on
the reins and taps his heels into Argus's flanks.
RHAVEN
Let's go, Argus. We head to Twin
Forks to kill Victas.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
Innocence Under Siege
EXT. HILLTOP OUTSIDE OF PEDNOR'S GROVE — DAY
JENNA (30s, long hair, smiling) races across the town square
being chased by her TWO KIDS (girls, 8 and 10). She laughs
when one of them taps her and then runs away.
YOUNGER CHILD
You won’t catch me.
On the other side of the square other children play and run
with their dogs.
Atop a large, wooded hill, a strike force of fifty VICTAS
(large, green-scaled creatures, half human/half lizard, three
claws on each hand) watch them from the cover of thick trees.
The sun is rising behind them and, the scent of humans clings
to the air, currents rising from the valley.
BOKK (middle aged, beady eyes, ranking warrior, ax strapped
to his back) flicks his tongue rapidly.
BOKK
(sibilant)
It's been a long time since we’ve
fought humans.
He removes his ax and creeps behind a large boulder on the
far side of the pass. His scales brush against the rocky
ground and make a rasping noise.
He moves slowly to the edge and looks down on the people
milling about in the town square.
BROOD LEADER TRULL (commander, bearing two axes) slithers
alongside him and peers through a looking glass.
BROOD LEADER TRULL
Any soldiers?
Bokk nods and continues to watch.
BOKK
Thirty to forty at most, but only a
few are armed.
Brood Leader Trull moves back and gets up. He straightens his
battle ax and addresses the PATROL LEADERS.
BROOD LEADER TRULL
Move, but be slow and be quiet. We
don't want to alert them.
As they start down the path, PATROL LEADER SORG (short,
solidly built, 30) stares at the little ones playing in the
square. He winces.
PATROL LEADER SORG
And the children?
BROOD LEADER TRULL
The master's orders are to leave no
one alive.
PATROL LEADER SORG
But they —
BROOD LEADER TRULL
No one!
Trull glances around him and sees KRON (a big warrior with a
long scar across his stomach).
BROOD LEADER TRULL (CONT’D)
Kron, scout ahead at the next two
villages — Treaschwig and Twin
Forks. We will finish here before
dusk, and I intend to march through
the night.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
Archery Rivalry
EXT. VALLEY OUTSIDE OF TWIN FORKS — DAY
Cold, spring air rolls into the valley from the mountains to
the north. RAHG (17, stocky, naïve, but happy) shivers but
holds steady as he aims at a target twenty paces ahead.
He blows a lock of brown hair from his eyes, then lets the
arrow fly. The arrow hits the target, and is still vibrating
when his taunting begins.
RAHG
That's almost dead center, Darstan.
Might as well pay up now.
DARSTAN (18, chiseled face, focused) steps toward a line in
the dirt. He adjusts his stance and draws the bow string.
DARSTAN
Don't spend your money yet.
Darstan shoots and hits the target dead center.
DARSTAN (CONT’D)
(laughing)
Three coppers, Rahg.
Rahg breaks a stick he holds, then reaches into his pocket to
get the coppers to pay Darstan.
RAHG
By all the gods, you're lucky.
You'd never make that shot again.
DARSTAN
Just pay up and stop complaining.
Darstan walks down a steep hill to a clearing next to a grove
of towering emeralds (tallest tree except the blackthorn). He
sits on the new shoots of grass and leans against the tree,
chewing on a twig.
Rahg sits next to him and looks at the sky.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
The Watchful Eyes
EXT. NORTH SIDE OF VALLEY — TWIN FORKS — DAY
A column of towering emeralds looks down upon the tops of
spruce, pine, hickory, and fir, and a lone pair of amber eyes
watches from deep in the woods as the sheep graze.
The bleat of a small ewe sounds an alarm causing the rest of
the flock to cry out and run toward the village. The clamor
brings Rahg and Darstan to their feet.
DARSTAN
The sheep!
Darstan nearly tumbles down the hill as he runs, leaping over
rocks and gnarled roots. Rahg trails him by a heartbeat.
RAHG
You see that? Over there, in the
woods.
Rahg nocks an arrow and lets it fly.
DARSTAN
I didn't see anything.
RAHG
Looked like a wolf.
Darstan chases after the rest of the flock until they settle
in a herd at the end of the valley. He approaches slowly and
runs calming hands over them, counting as he does. The sheep
seem nervous.
DARSTAN
Looks like we only lost one.
RAHG
Let's get them home before we lose
any more.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Lessons in the Kitchen
INT. TWIN FORKS — FAL-THERA HOUSE — KITCHEN — EVENING
The table is built from oak, and seats four. The kitchen is
small and plain, with no decorations — no curtains and no
pictures on the walls.
MAGMAR (50s, stern but loving) slaps the kitchen table as he
passes by, pacing the floor.
Both boys stand by the table, hands folded, heads hung low.
MAGMAR
I thought you were expert bowmen.
DARSTAN
It's my fault. I —
MAGMAR
Nonsense! You're both to blame.
Magmar brings a pitcher of water to the table and fills the
mugs to the brim. He then rests his palms on the table and
stares at Rahg.
MAGMAR (CONT'D) (CONT’D)
Thank the gods your mother isn't
alive to see this. She'd have been
more than disappointed.
He then turns toward Darstan.
MAGMAR (CONT’D)
And I'm sure your parents would
have been disappointed too. I
raised you both better than this.
Darstan sets the table, and Rahg brings the food, then Magmar
scoops the food onto the plates and sits.
MAGMAR (CONT’D)
What's done is done. Let's just
make sure we don't lose any more.
(a beat)
After you eat, you can finish your
chores.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Morning Banter
INT. TWIN FORKS — FAL-THERA HOUSE — KITCHEN — DAY
Rahg comes into the kitchen where Magmar is cooking
breakfast. He scrapes eggs onto his plate, then grabs a hunk
of bread and pours coffee.
Rahg sits next to Darstan and smiles.
RAHG
You going fishing with Eru?
DARSTAN
I’ve got to finish chores.
Rahg punches Darstan in the arm and laughs, then he gulps his
drink and stands to leave.
RAHG
I'll think about you as I reel
those fish in.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Excitement in the Valley
EXT. TWIN FORKS — VALLEY OF TOWERING EMERALDS — DAY
Rahg leans against a tree, loafing, and sees ERU (16, thin,
wiry and devilish) approaching. Eru holds a fishing pole over
his shoulder and carries a bucket of bait in his other hand.
He wears a broad smile.
ERU
You going to be at Havril's
tonight? My mother said a traveler
will be there with news from Sykor.
Rahg perks up and sits erect.
RAHG
What kind of news?
ERU
I don't know. She said it was
important, and to tell anyone I
saw.
RAHG
We'll be there. And we'll be early.
Rahg races toward home, crossing the creek by jumping from
rock to rock.
ERU
Where are you going? I thought we
were going fishing.
After making the last jump, Rahg turns and hollers over his
shoulder.
RAHG
I gotta get ready, but I'll see you
tonight.
(a beat)
Will Kanella be there?
Eru laughs and brushes his hand in the air.
ERU
Yes, Rahg. She'll be there, but I
don't know why you care. All you do
is gawk at her.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
The Traveler's Tale
INT. TWIN FORKS — FAL-THERA HOUSE — KITCHEN — DAY
Rahg bursts through the door and finds Darstan sitting at the
table, talking with Magmar.
RAHG
Eru's mother said there's gonna be
a traveler from Sykor at Havril's
tonight. We need to get there early
if we want a good seat.
MAGMAR
I was planning on going to Havril's
myself. Guess the timing's good.
(a beat)
But good seat or not, if you're
sitting near Tobias, you won't hear
much of anything. Not the way he
talks.
Darstan rolls his eyes and sighs.
DARSTAN
I don't want to hear his tales
again.
MAGMAR
I'm sure you'll hear them whether
you want to or not. But you might
pay attention now and then. As much
as Tobias seems to be nothing but a
tale-spinner, he was quite the
soldier in his day.
DARSTAN
Tobias?
Magmar takes a long swig of water, and nods.
MAGMAR
There's a lot more to Tobias than
you might think. But I'll do my
best to keep him away.
(a beat)
Maybe he'll sit at a table with
just me.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
Tales of Terror at Havril's Inn
EXT. TWIN FORKS — EVENING
Darstan and Rahg leave the house and walk through town toward
Havril's. The inn sits near the center of town and the
backside of it faces the river.
INT. TWIN FORKS – HAVRIL'S INN — EVENING.
Darstan and Rahg enter Havril's and stop a few paces into the
room. They stare from side to side, gawking.
RAHG
Look how many people are here. Eru
must have told everyone.
DARSTAN
I've never seen it this crowded.
The tables are packed with people, and TOBIAS (60, wiry,
short stubby beard and a little white hair, alert and
determined) is sitting at the center table telling tales.
Darstan laughs and nudges Rahg, gesturing toward Tobias.
DARSTAN (CONT’D)
He's at it already.
RAHG
Might as well sit and listen.
(a beat)
And keep your eyes open for
Kanella. I'm gonna ask her tonight.
Rahg and Darstan sit down just as Tobias starts his tale.
HAVRIL (40s, heavy-set, bald) closes the back room and joins
the growing crowd.
Tobias sits at a table filled with people, who pull extra
chairs to the table and into the aisle. A pipe dangles from
the right side of his mouth and smoke leaks from the left.
He looks from one listener to another and appears anxious.
TOBIAS
We were chasing bandits, and
followed their tracks toward the
mountains. We followed 'em all the
way to the Whites, then the tracks
got real confusing.
Tobias wipes his brow and takes a long swig of ale before
continuing.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
The tracks were muddled, so we
decided to split up. Then we heard
this sound, like ... well, it was
so unusual I still don't know how
to describe it, but it was a
terrible sound.
Rahg leans over and whispers to Darstan.
RAHG
You'd think after all this time,
he'd know just how to describe it.
Tobias bites down on the stem of his pipe, takes a few deep
puffs, then continues.
TOBIAS
I never seen anything like what
came out of those mountains. It had
gray scales over brown skin. And if
that wasn't enough to scare the
demons out of us — the teeth were.
They looked as big as daggers, and
the creature had eyes the color of
blood.
(a beat)
It looked like it was half-lizard
and half-dragon.
Tobias stops again to take a few long swallows of ale, then
like always, he places both hands on the edge of the table,
leans in, and whispers.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
It hit Tadge first.
(a beat)
Took him and Amos out before we got
our horses turned around. We
dismounted to get on the ridge, and
put six arrows into it, but not
before it got Tadge's other men.
(a beat)
Then it came toward us.
Tobias pushes away from the table quickly, almost as if
something is there after him. He breathes deeply, moves his
chair back in, and goes on.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
It started up that ledge like
walkin' on flat ground — big, sharp
claws finding the tiniest cracks to
grab hold of. It was almost on us
when Karrs put his sword right in
the creature's eye. It howled so
loud I nearly fell off the ledge,
but I grabbed my sword with both
hands and plunged it in as hard as
I could. Right into its skull.
Tobias makes a motion like he's stabbing down at something
with a sword, and he repeats it several times.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
That did him in. His claws loosed-
up and his head reared back, then
he fell all the way down, landin'
on the sharp rocks below.
Tobias finishes his tale just as Havril pounds a broom onthe
floor, drawing everyone's attention.
HAVRIL
Back room is now open. Anyone
interested in hearing what the man
has to say should get a table.
Rahg and Darstan race to the front of the line, where ELLA
HAVRIL (17, pleasant, fine features) seats people.
DARSTAN
Ella, get us a good seat if you
can.
Genres:
["Fantasy"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
A Night at Havril's Inn
INT. HAVRIL'S INN — GATHERING ROOM — NIGHT
Darstan and Rahg follow Ella into a large rectangular room
filled with benches and tables sitting atop old oak planks
held fast with iron nails. A fat candle adorns each table,
and the chairs, if not easy to sit on, are sturdy and level.
A huge fieldstone fireplace as big as a peddler's wagon sits
near the center of the room on the outside wall. It has a
hearth that can seat eight.
Darstan tugs on Rahg's sleeve and points to a man near the
center of the room.
DARSTAN
That must be him.
The traveler, BERYL (mid 40s, taller than Darstan by half a
hand, and beanstalk-thin with a long, twisted nose that hooks
down toward his mouth.) He wears a dusty-brown cloak and
haggard gray britches, which make him look more like a
soldier than a bard.
Darstan pulls Rahg toward a nearby table.
DARSTAN (CONT’D)
C'mon, these seats won't last long.
Ella seats them, then leans close and whispers to Darstan.
ELLA
I'll bring some ale on my next
trip. You both want the usual?
DARSTAN
Thanks, Ella. You're the best.
Rahg grabs hold of Ella's arm as she turns to leave.
RAHG
Is that Kanella sitting by the
door?
Ella looks at KANELLA (17, bashful with a coy smile).
ELLA
You know it is. Want me to bring
her here?
Rahg blushes, his eyes widen, and he shakes his head.
RAHG
No! Well, not now anyway.
Ella leaves, and Darstan nudges Rahg.
DARSTAN
She's not going to marry you if all
you do is stare at her.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Generational Perspectives on Love
INT. KITCHEN — HAVRIL'S INN — NIGHT
Ella walks into the kitchen and gives her sister, KORA (13,
sassy, ponytail), her orders.
ELLA
Have Mother cook these, then get me
four mugs of ale.
(a beat)
No, make it five.
Ella peers over the top of the swinging hinged doors and
smiles. MRS. HAVRIL, (Ella's mother, 40s, graying hair,
chubby, an overly concerned type) comes up behind her.
MRS. HAVRIL
What is it that has my daughter so
enthralled?
KORA
Just the Fal-Thera boys.
Mrs. Havril moves beside Ella and looks at Rahg and Darstan.
MRS. HAVRIL
Rahg’s the one to go after. A girl
would spend all her life chasin'
women away from Darstan. Be like
tryin' to keep bees from the honey;
leastwise, till he gets old and
fat.
ELLA
Mother, not all men get old and
fat. Look at Kor Trasken.
MRS. HAVRIL
He's a soldier, girl. Soldiers stay
fit. Besides, you need to set your
mind to findin' a good, hardworkin'
soul. That's what you want — a man
to put food on your table and a
fire in your hearth.
(a beat)
You don't want a man to be buildin'
a fire in someone else's hearth.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
A Brewing Storm
INT. HAVRIL'S INN — GATHERING ROOM — HIGHT
Ella exits the kitchen with several mugs of ale, and almost
bumps into Magmar and Tobias.
ELLA
Excuse me. It's crowded tonight.
TOBIAS
I can see that, lass. Where are
Rahg and Darstan?
ELLA
Just past the center of the room.
And they have a good table.
Tobias pushes his way through the crowd, talking non-stop.
MAGMAR
Tobias, trying to pay attention to
everything you say is like trying
to count raindrops.
Magmar and Tobias find their way to Rahg's table and sit
down, just as Beryl is about to speak.
Tobias squints at the traveler while he searches for a
striker to light his pipe.
TOBIAS
That's Beryl. He's a soldier in the
Sykoran guard.
RAHG
I thought he was a traveler.
Tobias shakes his head as he puts a striker to the tobacco in
his pipe.
TOBIAS
Unless my eyes have gone bad,
that’s Beryl, and trust me when I
say, the man couldn't tell a story
if he tried. It's just not in him.
Beryl glances nervously at all the people seated in the
tavern. He nods to Tobias as he is seated, then he takes off
his hat and sets it on the table.
BERYL
I heard a lot of you expected a
bard, but I'm just a soldier, sent
here to warn you that Victas have
been spotted far outside their
territory. The Nyaurans have also
reported Wolfen in their lands.
(a beat)
(MORE)
BERYL (CONT’D)
You need to make preparations in
case they come here, though I doubt
they would; Twin Forks is far off
the main trade routes.
The air in the tavern stills, then people shout questions at
the same time. PETR (60s and frail with a faltering voice)
stands first and airs his concern.
PETR
I thought the Victas were long
dead.
Beryl waits for the noise to settle, then he stands to speak,
but too many others are talking over him. He shifts his
weight nervously from one foot to the other.
BERYL
(shouting)
I know everyone's got questions,
but I'm wastin' my time hollering.
Beryl gestures to the side and raises his voice.
BERYL (CONT’D)
I see Tobias is here, so I'll let
him speak. He knows more than me.
Beryl looks around, picks up his hat, and walks to Tobias's
table. He sits down and grabs a mug of beer that Ella offers.
BERYL (CONT’D)
Glad to see you, Tobias, ‘cause I'm
leaving you to do the tellin’.
Already said what I came to say.
Beryl takes hold of Tobias by the elbow and speaks so no one
else can hear.
BERYL (CONT’D)
And by the way, the Victas got two
rock dragons with them. Saw the
tracks myself.
TOBIAS
Sit down and enjoy an ale or two,
Beryl. We can talk about old times.
Beryl shakes his head.
BERYL
Can't do it. Gotta warn a lot more
villages. Besides, you got a bunch
of scared people waitin' on you.
He reaches to shake Tobias's hand, then heads to the exit.
Tobias pushes his chair back and gets up, pipe in hand. He
shouts loudly.
TOBIAS
Stop screechin’ like a bunch of old
hens and listen to what I’m sayin’.
You might even learn something.
MRS. HAVRIL
Tobias Marek, are you to tell us
the tales of Victas and Wolfen are
true?
Tobias lowers his head and shakes it slowly. He sets his pipe
on the table and stares around the room, wearing a grim
expression.
TOBIAS
You all know me. Some think I'm
good only for tellin' tales. But
I'll not paint a dark sky blue.
(a beat)
Truth is, the Victas are real.
Wolfen are real too.
(a beat)
But we can deal with Victas and
Wolfen. What worries me is why?
Does this mean the Banished Ones
found a way out? If so, then we're
in real trouble.
PETR
What about Mikkellana and the good
immortals? What about Aentarra?
TOBIAS
As to some of them being good, well
... there's not much to support
that. When two wolves fight over
the same ewe, it makes little
difference to the ewe which wolf
wins.
(a beat)
(MORE)
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
As to Aentarra — from the stories
I've heard about her, I'd sooner
eat a toad than meet her on the
street. That one makes a serpent
seem as sweet as peach pudding.
Tobias stops to light his pipe again while the noise
continues. Once the room gets quiet enough, he goes on.
TOBIAS (CONT’D) (CONT’D)
Before he left, Beryl told me he
saw tracks of a small Victa party
not five leagues from where we sit.
People begin shouting questions again, then Tobias bangs an
empty mug on the table to quiet them.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Worst thing is, they had rock
dragons with them.
Rahg almost falls out of the chair. He turns to Darstan and
whispers.
RAHG
(anxiously)
Gods be dead, Darstan. Rock
dragons!
Tobias stands still until the room goes silent.
TOBIAS
I know all of ya have questions. If
it's all right with Magmar, I
suggest we meet at his house and
make plans for scouting parties.
Rahg grabs Darstan by the arm and pulls him aside.
RAHG
I was planning on asking Kanella's
father if I could call on her.
(a beat)
What should I do?
Tobias comes up behind Rahg and taps him on the shoulder.
TOBIAS
Don't mean to take the snap out of
your day, lad, but we've got a lot
to do and there's no time to dally.
(MORE)
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Put yourself together and get
going. We'll be at your house after
supper to discuss things.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
Preparing for the Threat
INT. FAL-THERA HOUSE — GATHERING ROOM — NIGHT
The gathering room at Magmar's house accommodates eight
comfortably — this night it holds twenty-one. People stand
and sit anywhere they can fit. Even Tobias is sitting on the
hearth.
KOR TRASKEN (50, tall, big soldierly man — Kanella and Eru's
father) stands at the front of the room. He holds two fingers
to his lips and WHISTLES loudly.
KOR TRASKEN
Time to listen up, folks. Tobias
has important things we need to
hear.
Tobias squeezes through people to get to the front of the
room. He sets his pipe on a nearby table and starts.
TOBIAS
We have to assume this is a raiding
party so we should split into
patrols and find how many we face
before they get here.
Tobias glances around the room and looks at the different
people.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Kor, take Ben and Havril and go
east around the bend where the
river meets the gorge. We’ll take,
the longest route, up and around
Rainbow Falls. The rest of you
split into two groups. One heading
west and one south.
KOR TRASKEN
If nobody has questions, I suggest
we all go home and get some sleep.
Tomorrow will be a long day.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Night of Unease
INT. FAL-THERA HOUSE — BEDROOM — NIGHT
Rahg and Darstan lie in bed. Rahg tosses and turns, then,
unable to sleep, sits up and looks over at Darstan's bed.
RAHG
You awake? I can't sleep with this
headache. It's the worst yet.
Darstan rolls to his side and looks at Rahg.
DARSTAN
You need to see a healer. You have
headaches way too much.
Darstan sits up and lights a candle.
DARSTAN (CONT’D)
Seems like everything has changed
in two days.
RAHG
I've been thinking about that wolf
ever since Havril’s. I'll bet it
was one of those Wolfen Beryl
talked about.
DARSTAN
I don't know, Rahg. I don't know
about anything anymore.
Rahg leans on his elbows and stares out the window. The wind
howls and blows the branches of the trees wildly. He shivers,
blows out the candle, then crawls back under the covers.
RAHG
What if we have to fight them? How
are we going to fight lizards?
You're scared of little snakes.
DARSTAN
Snakes and lizards aren't the same.
I'm scared of lizard-people, but
I'd be more scared of snake-people,
Darstan tucks his hands beneath his head and stares at the
ceiling.
DARSTAN (CONT’D)
We better get sleep, Rahg. We've
got a big day coming up.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
Morning Preparations at Fal-Thera
INT. FAL-THERA HOUSE — KITCHEN — DAY
Rahg heats water for coffee and has eggs cooking when Darstan
and Magmar enter.
MAGMAR
Might as well put some more eggs
on. Tobias will be here any minute.
A horse neighs, then footsteps sound on the porch before the
door creaks open.
TOBIAS
I hope you lads cracked an egg or
two for me.
Tobias laughs as he pulls up a stout oak chair and removes
his hat.
DARSTAN
Don't forget that hat when we leave
or your head will burn.
Magmar scrapes his plate of the few potatoes that remain,
then sops up his eggs with the bread. He nods to Darstan.
MAGMAR
I'll pack the food while you boys
help Tobias.
Tobias gulps down the rest of his food and carries his plate
to the counter.
TOBIAS
Time to go, lads. Feed the animals,
then help with the horses.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Ascent to Adventure
EXT. KAMNOR — RAINBOW MOUNTAINS — NORTH OF TWIN FORKS — DAY
Rahg and Darstan ride upward on a knoll, leaving the valley.
It is sprinkled with maples and emeralds, with heavy foliage
in between.
As they leave the foothills, they enter the front door to the
Great Whites. The woods are harsh, untamed, and dense.
Darstan sits tall on his mount, black hair glistening in the
morning sun.
DARSTAN
I packed twenty-five arrows each.
Even as bad as you shoot, that's
enough to hit a few Victas.
The trail steepens as the day wears on, and the emeralds and
oaks cede to squatty pines and scrub brush.
The distinctive croak of two ravens romping on the wind
causes Rahg to glance upward. He tugs on his cloak, wrapping
it tighter around his neck.
TOBIAS
Won't be long, lad. There's a big
cavern a short distance away that
has water. That's where we'll spend
the night.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Into the Shadows
EXT. CAVE NORTH OF TWIN FORKS — NIGHT
Tobias dismounts and leads his horse down a path shadowed in
darkness. He signals for the others to follow. Rahg goes
first, Darstan next, and Magmar brings up the rear.
By the time they catch up to Tobias, the trail has grown
painfully narrow. As Tobias passes a tight bend in the trail,
a tree branch snaps back and catches Rahg's face, stinging
like a whip.
Rahg pushes the branch away and glares at Tobias.
They twist along several more trails, each more narrow than
the previous one. Then Tobias takes a tortuous path leading
higher.
Rahg tugs on the reins of his mount and leans forward to keep
from falling while Tobias pushes a branch aside and reveals a
large cave.
TOBIAS
Calm the horses as you come
through. These branches have
thorns. And you need to be quiet;
there might be Victas around.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
Whispers of Danger
INT. CAVE NORTH OF TWIN FORKS — NIGHT
Once inside, Rahg strikes a torch and Magmar lights a second
torch and wedges it between two rocks.
MAGMAR
Darstan, you and Rahg take care of
the horses. Make sure they're fed
and watered, then make bedrolls and
light another torch. Tobias and I
will gather firewood.
CAVE — CONTINUOUS
Tobias and Magmar return from gathering firewood, Magmar's
arms loaded with deadwood, and Tobias carrying two rabbits
and a squirrel which he hands to Darstan.
TOBIAS
Get the fire started so we can eat.
I'd don’t want it burning for long.
(a beat)
There looks to be a patrol of
Victas just west of us. So, make
sure you keep quiet.
CAVE — CONTINUOUS
Darstan tears off a piece of meat, chews it, and then looks
at Tobias.
DARSTAN
Is it real, Tobias — what you
said back at Havril’s?
Tobias laughs and pats a spot on a log next to him.
TOBIAS
Get on over here. I won't tell this
twice.
Rahg picks up his plate and sits next to Tobias. Darstan
scoots closer as well.
Tobias pulls a piece of meat from the rabbit's leg and begins
his tale.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
The Banished Ones are real, lads,
and don't go thinkin' they’re not.
They're as real as snakes and
mountain cats and sangra (alligator
like). And they're a lot worse.
Tobias stretches his legs, moves close to the fire, and
lights his pipe. Smoke billows from the sides of his mouth,
then he leans against a large rock.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Hard to say how to tell this, but I
guess the best place to start is at
the beginning.
(a beat)
It's been 1,000 winters since we
came to settle these lands. The
legends mention a group of
immortals with unimaginable powers
that were already here.
DARSTAN
What kind of powers?
TOBIAS
They controlled the winds,
commanded fire and lightning, and
more. I've heard some bards' say
they could talk without moving
their lips. Others swear they could
kill the same way.
RAHG
Where did they come from?
TOBIAS
Don't know where they came from,
but they fought against each other
for ages, then Mikkellana devised a
trap to lock Lukaan and his
followers inside Sethia. Tales say
you could hear him screaming around
the world when she did.
DARSTAN
So, he's locked in Sethia?
Tobias nods and puffs more on his pipe.
TOBIAS
Locked in and can't get out, though
he vows he's going to. I can't say
how much is true, but I tend to
believe. I've been on the caravan
route that goes past Sethia.
(MORE)
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
I've seen shadows that shouldn't be
there and heard cries from the
desert that sounded like the bones
of the dead.
(a beat)
I know I wouldn't wander off that
caravan trail, just in case there
is a shield with Lukaan behind it.
Tobias stands and paces.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
I think that's enough storytelling
for a night, lads. Besides, we need
sleep.
CAVE — CONTINUOUS
A hand clamps over Rahg's mouth, and he bolts up, eyes wide.
Magmar removes his hand and puts a finger to his lips.
MAGMAR
Don't make any noise.
RAHG
What's the matter?
MAGMAR
Tobias heard something. He thinks
it’s a Victa patrol.
Tobias lifts the cover over the entrance and hurries inside.
TOBIAS
It's no patrol. It's a whole dang
strike force!
Tobias barks orders like a Sykoran patrol leader.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Have to get to the village and warn
them, and send someone south for
help. We can put women and children
on boats to Sykor.
MAGMAR
How many?
TOBIAS
I figure two hundred, but could be
more.
(MORE)
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
We'll have to move fast if we're to
beat 'em to the village. We can't
go past 'em, but they're on foot.
Not a horse I know of that would
let a lizard sit on its back.
(a beat)
I figure if we go north, around the
mountain, we can take the east road
into town. It'll cost us half a
league, at worst, but if we ride
hard, we might make it.
Tobias mounts his horse and grabs the reins, then looks to
Rahg and Darstan.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Let's ride, lads.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Race Against Fear
EXT. NORTH EDGE OF TWIN FORKS — MORNING
Tobias leads the way toward town with Rahg, Darstan, and
Magmar following. They race past a grove of maples sitting on
a ridge and then head down the knoll, weaving through several
clusters of oaks. Parts of the town are visible in the
distance.
RAHG
Maybe they're peaceful.
TOBIAS
Only one reason Victas come to a
village, and that's to kill people.
And they don't just kill people;
they eat them.
RAHG
I hope Kanella is okay.
As they top the crest of the final hill, the town comes into
view.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Ashes of Twin Forks
EXT. TWIN FORKS — MORNING
Thick, black smoke hangs in the air, and buildings and houses
are aflame. Rahg gags with his next breath.
RAHG (CONT’D)
What's that stink?
Tobias urges his mount forward, digging his heels in to get
more speed.
TOBIAS
That's people burnin'. Ride, lad!
Fire is razing more than a few houses. SIX MEN crowd together
on the steps of Havril's inn, but twice as many Victas
surround them, each clawed-hand clasping a bloody sword or
ax. Bodies litter the square like autumn leaves.
RAHG
Over there!
Rahg shouts and points to a house on the east side of the
square. Eru and TWO OTHERS are fighting ten Victas. He spurs
his mount in that direction.
Tobias veers his horse to the right and intercepts two Victas
who are attacking Rahg. He swings his sword into the back of
the head of one Victa, and Magmar shoots the other, although
it takes two arrows to kill it.
Rahg urges his mount forward, and it leaps over the body of a
small boy lying in the square, his skull smashed.
RAHG (CONT’D)
It's the Marg boy.
TOBIAS
You can't do anything for him now,
Rahg. Just keep your eyes open.
Rahg looks ahead and sees Havril and three others join Eru's
group and make their way to the inn. They are fighting Victas
but the odds are more even. Rahg and Darstan join the fight.
Rahg shoots one Victa in the chest, but it keeps moving
forward.
Darstan shoots it in the throat and drops it.
DARSTAN
Aim for the throat, Rahg. It's
their weak spot.
Darstan nocks another arrow and shoots a Victa about to
strike Eru from his blind side. The arrow hits the Victa in
the throat, killing it quickly.
Tobias wipes blood from his sword and moves toward the inn.
TOBIAS
Follow me, lads. Havril needs help.
Tobias leads the charge, brandishing his sword, and
dispatches a large Victa about to get Havril in the back.
Rahg stabs another Victa in the back of the leg and follows
through with a jab to its neck. As he pulls the sword out,
Eru blocks a Victa ax from striking Rahg.
Another Victa raises its ax to strike Rahg, but just then,
Kanella steps from behind the building and plunges a sword
into its neck. Rahg looks over at Kanella, shocked.
RAHG
I didn't know if you were alive.
KANELLA
Stay alert, or none of us will be.
Darstan slays the last Victa in the group, then stops to
breathe. Green Victa blood stains his hair and streaks his
face, and blood from a stomach wound stains his shirt. He
shakes his head and sips water from a flask Kor gives him.
Eru wipes sweat and grime from his face and sits next to
Tobias, who is leaning against a tree and breathing hard.
TOBIAS
Looks like we got a short break,
but it won't last. We need to get
inside the inn.
He turns to Kor.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
What went on before we got here?
KOR TRASKEN
A score of Sykoran soldiers came
just before the attack, but they're
all dead, though they took a lot of
Victas with them.
TOBIAS
Don't need to know who's dead, Kor.
How many people are left alive?
KOR TRASKEN
There are a handful inside
Havril's, and we already sent some
of the women and children down the
river. Everyone else is dead.
MAGMAR
More coming!
A full patrol of Victas approach at a fast pace. Darstan
cleans the blood from his blade and gives it a quick snap
with his wrist.
The group crosses the square, splattering through pools of
blood and leaping over corpses. A large group of Victas
approach from both sides, poised to intercept them. Another
patrol is moving in from behind them.
Tobias assesses the situation and leads them to the side wall
of the inn.
TOBIAS
Form a circle and protect each
other's flank.
Darstan fights a Victa when a huge black stallion races down
the main thoroughfare straight toward them.
Rhaven sits astride the horse, wearing a black cloak.
The horse tramples two Victas, then lashes out with its back
legs, striking another in the head. Four Victas rush Rhaven
as he slips from his mount. He draws two sai and stands
still, awaiting the lizards.
As Victas approach, he uses the sai as weapons, stabbing them
in the throat and heart. The sai's thick prongs penetrate
deeply with devastating effects.
More Victas abandon their attack on Tobias and the others,
and withdraw to fight Rhaven.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
We need to help him. Flank 'em on
the west so we give him room.
A loud hissing sound is heard coming from around the corner.
Darstan looks over and takes a deep breath.
DARSTAN
Good God!
TOBIAS
That’s a rock dragon, and it's far
more dangerous than the Victas.
(a beat)
You've got to get its throat.
Nothing else will do it.
Tobias backs up and motions for the others to do likewise.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Form a tight circle so each of us
can better protect the other.
As they form the circle, Rahg looks out to Rhaven, but sees
something approaching fast. It runs through the field,
tossing clumps of dirt high in the air.
RAHG
Look!
Tobias glances quickly, then does a double-take.
TOBIAS
Well, I'll be. I never expected to
see one.
RAHG
One what?
Magmar squints and looks harder. A VARGEL (huge, black, bear-
like) bounds toward them. It looks like a dog but it's as big
as a bear.
MAGMAR
It’s a vargel.
TOBIAS
Sure as honey's sweet, it is. I
never saw one, but there's no
mistaking it. It's a vargel.
A Victa's ax takes a slice from Rahg's arm and a bite from
his side. He stumbles and winces, but manages to strike a
crippling blow to the Victa's right side. He follows it with
a killing strike to the throat.
Two more Victas come after Rahg, but Darstan and Kanella join
the fight and kill them quickly.
A full patrol of Victa reinforcements arrive, and four of
them set upon Havril simultaneously.
He doesn't last long before succumbing. Kor rushes to save
him, but three of the lizards deal a fatal blows.
RAHG
Kor, no!
Rahg runs to help, as do Kanella and Eru, but they're too
late, and now they have more Victas to face.
Rahg jabs at a large Victa with his sword, but he misses, and
the Victa moves in and gets Eru, splitting his head with an
ax. A second Victa plants its ax in Kanella's back.
RAHG (CONT’D)
No!
Rhaven whirls, jabs with his sai and takes out the Victas
that killed them. The other Victas pause as Rhaven carves a
path through the rest and joins Rahg by the wall.
RHAVEN
Stab their backs when they come to
get me, boy.
Victas come at Rhaven two or three at a time, but he kills
them as quickly as they appear. Rahg even manages to get a
few in the back. Suddenly, Rahg hears a death cry that tears
his attention from the fight.
DARSTAN
Father!
Darstan rushes toward the cry, a crazed look in his eye.
There is a knife in Magmar's gut, and blood is gushing from
the wound.
Rahg struggles to get to Magmar, but Rhaven's outstretched
hand stops him.
RHAVEN
You won't do him any good if you're
dead. Stay alive. That's the best
you can do for him. Now take hold
of yourself.
Rhaven continues fighting like a madman. Whenever a Victa
swings an ax, his trident-shaped weapon catches it and twists
it out of the Victa's clawed grasp, then he follows through
with a thrust and stabs the lizard in the throat.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
Get behind me, boy. Rock dragons
coming.
Rahg steps behind Rhaven, but he can't take his eyes off the
rock dragons. They have feet bigger than a bear's paw with
gray, scaly legs as thick as a young oak and three big claws
on each foot.
Triangular heads funnel to a long snout that houses dagger-
like teeth. Rahg shudders when the red-blood eyes stare at
him.
Another terrifying hiss buckles Rahg's knees, but Rhaven's
words give him hope.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
Don't give up, boy. That's a vargel
out there.
Rhaven's words give Rahg new hope, and he advances, wielding
his sword. The vargel leaps and lands on the nearest rock
dragon with a crunch that smashes the dragon's bones.
It then lunges and seizes the second dragon by the throat and
rips it out. Several Victas flee and others attack. The
vargel sets upon them, killing them with no hesitation.
The vargel demands the Victas' full attention, but while it
does, Rhaven inflicts almost as much damage to the lizards
from the rear. Before long, the battle is over.
Rahg drops to his knees and throws up, then he sees Tobias
holding Magmar, and he jumps up and runs to him.
RAHG
Is he alive?
TOBIAS
Barely, lad. Just barely. I'm no
healer, but I doubt the best of
them could save him.
Darstan rushes over and kneels next to Rahg.
DARSTAN
Don't die. We'll take care of you.
Rahg hugs his father and cries. Magmar stretches his hand out
to pat Rahg's shoulder and does the same with Darstan.
MAGMAR
I love both you boys.
Darstan sheds tears as Rahg sets Magmar's head on the ground.
RAHG
By the gods, Dar. They killed him.
They killed our father.
Darstan walks to a shed beside Havril's Inn. He returns
carrying two shovels.
DARSTAN
Don't worry. We'll make sure they
pay — somehow.
Rhaven approaches and looks down at Rahg and Darstan.
RHAVEN
I know this was your village, and I
know this man was family, but we've
got no time for graves. More Victas
will be coming, and we need to be
far away before they get here.
DARSTAN
This was my father. I'm burying
him.
Rhaven looks from side to side and behind him.
RHAVEN
I'll bury him while you and the old
man search for survivors. We need
to be quick because there may be
scouts watching us.
Genres:
["Action","Fantasy"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
Whispers of Loss and Vigilance
EXT. KAMNOR — SYKORAN ROAD — DAY
Darstan stares at Rhaven as he prepares to climb atop his
wild mount. The horse is black as night.
Darstan eases his horse alongside Tobias, near the front of
the line.
DARSTAN
Who is he?
Tobias chews on the end of his pipe.
TOBIAS
Man's name is Rhaven. I soldiered
with him during the Krov War.
DARSTAN
He doesn't look like a soldier.
Tobias coughs and blows smoke from the side of his mouth.
TOBIAS
Callin' him a soldier is like
callin' a shark a minnow.
Tobias turns to look at Rahg.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
How you feelin’, lad?
RAHG
I can't believe they're all dead:
father, Eru, Kanella, Kor ...
almost everybody.
Rahg hangs his head even lower than before.
RAHG (CONT’D)
I didn't even get a chance to tell
Kanella that I liked her, and she's
all I dreamed about.
DARSTAN
We need to focus on staying alert.
Rahg looks toward the front of the line.
RAHG
I see that beast is still with us.
Scared the life out of me when I
saw it.
Tobias tugs on his cap and brushes a piece of tobacco from
his white stubble.
TOBIAS
Beasts like that are legends. They
fought with Mikkellana in the great
war. Far as I know, haven’t been
seen since. Anyway, gotta go. Got
scoutin’ to do.
(a beat)
(MORE)
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
And remember what your father
always said. 'A smile cures quicker
than a frown.'
As they travel south, the terrain changes from mountains to
steep hills, then lush valleys with gently rolling hills.
Long-armed oaks and grandfather pines mingle with maples,
sycamores and ash, all wearing new spring coats.
Rhaven rides toward the back of the line and points to a
thick copse of trees.
RHAVEN
We make camp on that rise, but no
fire. There will likely be Victa
scouts searching for survivors.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
Cold Nights and Vargel Names
EXT. CAMPSITE OUTSIDE KAMNOR — NIGHT
Darstan pulls his coat tightly about him and looks at Rahg.
DARSTAN
I didn't think I'd mind no fire,
but after eating that cold supper,
I've changed my mind.
RAHG
Wait until later tonight.
Rahg nudges Darstan, and then gestures to Rhaven, lying on
the ground next to the vargel.
RAHG (CONT’D)
At least he's got that beast to
keep him warm.
DARSTAN
You could always sleep next to it.
RAHG
Maybe I will.
Rahg walks toward Rhaven, then gestures to the vargel.
RAHG (CONT’D)
What's her name?
RHAVEN
She doesn't belong to me.
Rahg appears surprised. His eyebrows raise.
RAHG
But she came with you ...
RHAVEN
Coincidence. Maybe fate, if you
believe in that. You should name
her if she stays around.
Rahg rushes back to where Darstan lies in his bedroll. He
reaches down and shakes him.
RAHG
Rhaven asked me to name the vargel.
DARSTAN
Uh-huh.
RAHG
Did you hear me, Dar? He wants me
to give her a name.
DARSTAN
Then you should do it. Just let me
sleep.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Morning at the Campsite: Bonds and Threats
EXT. CAMPSITE OUTSIDE KAMNOR — MORNING
Tobias is serving fresh-cooked food from his pan to all the
villagers. Rahg fills his plate and goes to sit next to
Rhaven, but he keeps his distance from the vargel.
RAHG
I wanted to thank you for burying
my father. Tobias said you dug a
nice grave.
RHAVEN
If any grave can be a nice one, I
suppose it was. And no need to
thank me, boy. He earned it.
(a beat)
But if you want somebody to thank,
thank the vargel. First one I ever
saw, but she lived up to the
legend.
Rahg’s eyebrows raise.
RAHG
The legend?
RHAVEN
Vargels fought alongside Mikkellana
during her war against Lukaan.
people say nothing’s braver.
Rhaven stops eating and stares at Rahg.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
Where will you go?
RAHG
Darstan has a cousin who's an
officer in the Sykoran Guard. I'm
going to learn to be a master with
the sword. Then I'll kill every
Victa I can find.
RHAVEN
I thought you were brothers?
RAHG
We are. I mean, we're like
brothers, but Darstan was adopted.
Rhaven nods as Tobias walks up and plops down next to Rahg.
TOBIAS
If you're lookin' for a blade
master, there’s nobody better than
the man sittin' next to you.
Tobias looks at Rhaven.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
You could train 'em better than
anyone.
Rhaven continues whittling on a stick.
RHAVEN
You hold an advantage, old man. You
know me, but I don't know you.
TOBIAS
Didn't expect you'd remember. I
fought with Takar at the Battle of
Cypress Swamps.
Rhaven nods and smiles while he sharpens his sword.
RHAVEN
I remember you now. You were
Takar's patrol leader, the one who
flanked the Krov's at Landers Bend.
Rhaven runs the whetstone up and down his sword, as if he's
caressing it.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
You must live with the luck of the
gods to have survived that and what
you just did at Twin Forks.
Tobias laughs, sits on a tree stump, and lights his pipe.
TOBIAS
The gods had nothin' to do with
Twin Forks. If it hadn't been for
you and that vargel, none of us
would be here.
Rhaven reaches over and pets her head, running his hand down
her back.
RHAVEN
She's a warrior.
Rhaven looks to Rahg.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
And by the way, boy. You better
think of a name for this vargel.
I'm tired of calling her 'she.'
Rhaven stands and stretches and then walks the camp. When he
returns, he whispers to Tobias.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
There's a Victa patrol following
us, probably waiting for the right
spot to attack.
(a beat)
When we leave here, you take the
lead and I'll take the rear. When
it's the right time, I'll drop back
and check on them.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
Silent Strike
EXT. ROAD TO SYKOR — DAY
Tobias leads the group into the woods bordering the southern
border of Kamnor. At the densest part, Rhaven drops back
behind an enclave of boulders and takes cover. Tobias
continues moving forward.
Rhaven watches as five Victas pass by, axes strapped to their
backs and knives in their waistband. The Victas sit at the
campfire and eat some meat.
Rhaven waits until the last Victa eats, then he sneaks up
behind them. He creeps up stealthily, gets behind one of the
Victas, and slits its throat.
He grabs a Victa on each side and slits their throats as
well. The remaining two Victas rush Rhaven, but he draws his
sai and dispatches them quickly. He gathers a few of their
weapons and heads back to camp.
Genres:
["Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Urgent Departure
EXT. CAMPSITE OUTSIDE KAMNOR — NIGHT
Tobias sits on a large tree stump by the campfire and chews
on a piece of salted beef. Rhaven walks in undetected.
RHAVEN
The Victas are gone.
TOBIAS
So now what?
RHAVEN
There's a Sykoran outpost not far
from here. That will be the safest,
but we need to be quick.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
Bonding on the Road to Sykor
EXT. ROAD TO SYKOR — DAY
Rahg rides at the back of the line alongside Darstan and
Tobias, and he continually looks to the rear and sides for
signs of Victas.
RAHG
Seen anything yet?
Darstan shakes his head.
DARSTAN
Nothing.
RAHG
By the way, I thought of a name for
that vargel — Kella.
Tobias spins in his saddle when he hears Rahg.
TOBIAS
You can't name her Kella. That was
the name of Mikkellana's vargel.
Rhaven rides up alongside them.
RHAVEN
Let him keep the name. Can anyone
doubt her courage? I doubt even
Mikkellana's vargel could have done
better.
Rahg jumps off his mount and runs to the vargel.
RAHG
Kella! Kella, girl. Come here.
Rahg looks surprised when the vargel responds, racing to him
and nudging him.
Tobias looks at Rahg and shakes his head.
TOBIAS
I guess it was meant to be.
RHAVEN
Looks like she's yours now, boy.
She's fixed herself to you, and
vargels heed only one master.
They ride for several leagues, then Rhaven stops and looks
ahead, staring into the distance.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
Looks like a patrol of guards. We
must be close to the outpost.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
A Tenuous Refuge
EXT. BORDER OF KAMNOR AND SYKOR — SYKORAN OUTPOST — DAY
PATROL LEADER ATIL (30, dull-gray uniform, calf-high boots,
all soldier) leads twelve SYKORAN GUARDS and stops in front
of the villagers. Rhaven sits at the forefront.
ATIL
State your business.
Tobias moves in front of Rhaven and addresses Atil.
TOBIAS
We're running from a strike force
of Victas who attacked our village.
Killed all but who you see here.
Atil turns and gives orders to several of his men: TONRAK
(30s, muscular, dour face), BEZNIK (30s, thin, light hair, a
man who looks as if he's always waiting for orders), and
MORGAN (late 30s, tall, a soldier's soldier).
ATIL
Tonrak, go to the garrison at
River's Bend. Beznik, send two
patrols to warn other villages.
Morgan, dispatch a runner to the
capitol and suggest all garrisons
along the borders be reinforced.
When the soldiers leave, Atil takes the group from Twin Forks
back to the outpost. Rahg tries leading Kella inside, but she
refuses to go.
ATIL (CONT’D)
You should rest. We'll call you
when supper is ready, though don't
expect anything fancy.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
Tension at the Sykoran Outpost
INT. SYKORAN OUTPOST — EATING AREA — EVENING
Several SERVING GIRLS bring food and pour ale.
ATIL
Do you know who the patrol leader
was at your village? Several
haven't reported in.
TOBIAS
They were dead by the time we got
to the village, and the only man
who knew them died as well. He said
it was a full patrol, if that
helps.
Tobias turns and looks to Rhaven.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Rhaven, do you know who it was?
Atil tenses upon hearing Tobias mention Rhaven's name. His
hand moves slowly toward the sword at his side.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
I noticed your reaction. If it's
because of me mentioning Rhaven's
name, forget it; the king issued a
pardon long ago.
(a beat)
But if you've got a hankering to
die, poke your head in a wagger's
nest; you'd stand a better chance
of gettin' out alive.
When Atil doesn't move his hand, Tobias shakes his head and
stares.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Soldier, if that sword clears
leather, the buzzards will be
pickin' cheese from your belly come
noon. I suggest you forget whatever
you're thinking and finish your
meal.
(beat)
Besides, we'll be gone in the
morning.
Rahg nods to Darstan, and they both stand, hands resting on
the hilts of their swords.
RAHG
If you plan on fighting, you'll
have to fight us too.
Tobias laughs and gestures for the lads to sit.
TOBIAS
I'm sure these men are shaking in
their boots worrying about facing
you two, but I'm guessing they're a
little more concerned about Rhaven.
Rhaven stands and glares at the Sykorans.
RHAVEN
No need for them to worry. I'm
going to bed.
Rhaven leaves, then Tobias stands and wipes his mouth.
TOBIAS
No sense in us staying, lads. Not
much to call company here.
He points his finger at Atil and wags it.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
We're goin' to bed, but don't think
of trying anything. That man who
just left here can hear a cat
walking across the floor, or a fly
buzzing in the next room, so a
guard sneaking up on him doesn't
stand a chance.
Tobias heads toward the exit.
TOBIAS (CONT’D)
Let's go, lads.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
Departure from the Outpost
INT. HALLWAY OF SYKORAN OUTPOST — MORNING
Tobias leaves his room and encounters Rhaven in the hallway.
TOBIAS
You figure out where you're going?
RHAVEN
Thought I'd accompany you and the
boys to Sykor.
TOBIAS
They'll like that. Those boys look
up to you.
RHAVEN
They'd do better looking up to you,
but either way is fine. Let's eat
and get going.
TOBIAS
I thought I'd cook after we leave.
Nothing here that makes me want to
stay.
RHAVEN
Let's go then. I know some trails
that should keep us out of any
Victa’s way.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
A Choice of Safety
EXT. COURTYARD — SYKORAN GUARD POST — DAY
The villagers enter the courtyard with Rhaven.
RHAVEN
I spoke to the post commander this
morning. He'll provide an escort to
Sykor for anyone who wants to go.
If you don’t want that, you can
accompany me.
The villagers look from one to the other, mumbling and asking
questions. Finally, one of them speaks.
VILLAGER
We'll stay and go with the guards.
Rhaven nods and turns Argus toward the gate.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Urgent Departure from Sykoran Outpost
EXT. SYKORAN OUTPOST — DAY
Rhaven exits, followed by Tobias, Rahg, and Darstan.
Rahg rides behind Rhaven, and he continually calls for the
vargel. He even lifts himself up higher on the mount for a
better view, then he turns to look at Tobias.
RAHG
Just checking to see if she's still
with us. I feel better when she's
here.
Tobias sighs and shakes his head.
TOBIAS
She's here, lad. Been following us
for a while. Though I imagine
she'll leave when we get to Sykor.
Rhaven spurs Argus and sets a faster pace.
RHAVEN
Let's go. We best not move too
slowly or the Victas will find us
for sure.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
Atil's Dilemma
INT. SYKORAN OUTPOST — DAY
Atil watches from a window as Rhaven and the rest exit. He
turns to Morgan, alongside him.
ATIL
Send a messenger to the force
leader and tell him Rhaven is
coming.
MORGAN
I thought the strike leader said —
ATIL
He did, but at times, the strike
leader is soft. Let's see what the
force leader thinks.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
Silent Strike in the Desert
EXT. SETHIA — WEST OF THE SETHIAN SHIELD — DAY
The air shimmers, cracks, and surges with power. A rift
opens, and Aentarra steps through and scans the area.
Searing heat scorches her shoulders, and fiery sands scratch
at her feet. She CLOAKS herself using powers of STEALTH
(invisibility), then approaches the shield unseen and
unheard.
Aentarra focuses attention inside the shield where a WOLFEN,
a VICTA, and a SETHIAN converse. She dispatches SLICERS (thin
as a strand of hair, crystal-like) — one for each — then
closes her eyes and SHIFTS.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
Aentarra's Struggle in the Great Hall
INT. PALACE AT VALLAH — NORTH OF THE GREAT WHITES — DAY
Aentarra steps through a rift and enters the Great Hall. She
walks down the hall toward Council Chambers. A smile cracks
her face, then quickly vanishes with a gasp as she hears
whispers inside her head.
AENTARRA
(to herself)
The Others! How did they get here?
She braces herself against a column as a stab of pain shoots
through her mind and claws inside her. THE OTHERS have
attacked.
Pain wracks her body, her right arm falls limp, and her legs
collapse.
The left side of her face goes numb, lips drooping, eyes
sagging. Blood trickles from her ear and something foul oozes
from her nose. Vibrations rock her and pain prevents her from
focusing.
From deep in her mind, she hears her father's voice.
ANTAR (V.O.)
Avenge me!
Aentarra grinds her teeth, pries her face up, then focuses.
AENTARRA
Du Savarras don't die like this.
She musters her power and concentrates, then she dispatches
an unrelenting assault. Dozens of Slicers emerge from a pouch
at her side and enter her head just above the ear.
Within seconds, the look of pain on her face disappears, then
the Slicers emerge from her head, blood dripping from the
tips of them.
AENTARRA (CONT’D)
(sighs)
The battle is over — for now.
She stands, using the column for support, then continues
along the hall toward Council Chambers.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Betrayal in the Council Chambers
INT. VALLAH — COUNCIL CHAMBERS — DAY
Aentarra opens the large double doors and enters the chamber,
staring at the ten inert bodies seated around the table. In
front of each person is a dagger encrusted with emeralds.
Only three chairs are empty.
As she stares, the sound of footsteps in the hall alerts her,
and she turns and waits. MESAN (40, confident strut) walks
through the door. He stops, staring at the bodies in their
seats, his mouth agape.
MESAN
What have you done, Aentarra? And
why?
Aentarra smirks, then dispatches one of her Slicers from the
pouch at her side. The Slicer hurtles toward Mesan at
unfathomable speed.
Mesan weaves a shield, but it does no good. The Slicer
pierces it as if it's not there, then bores through his skull
to the proper depth in his brain. His eyes glaze over, and he
slumps to the floor.
Aentarra places him in one of the empty chairs, then exits
the room. She focuses as she walks, then concentrates and
Shifts to Pomanda.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
43 -
Intimidation at the Inn
INT. POMANDA — INN OF THE TURTLE — EVENING
Aentarra enters the tavern, crowded with patrons, and walks
to the BARKEEP (short, eyes close together, an anxious man,
alert for trouble).
AENTARRA
I'm searching for a patron by the
name of Xanthes. He's tall, light
hair, green eyes, and sharp
features.
BARKEEP
Out of luck, you are. I know the
man you speak of, but he threatened
to kill me if I told anyone where
he was.
AENTARRA
Then I guess you have what's known
as a dilemma because I’ll kill you
if you don't tell me.
BARKEEP
I think I'll take my chances with
you, my lady. It might even be a
pleasure.
Aentarra smiles, then a Slicer emerges from her pouch and
comes to a halt inches from the barkeep’s skull. The Slicer
glows and hums loudly. The barkeep gulps, his eyes agape.
BARKEEP (CONT’D)
Upstairs. First room on the right.
AENTARRA
Feel fortunate I am in a good mood,
else, you'd be dead.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
44 -
Urgency in the Night
INT. INN OF THE TURTLE — UPSTAIRS BEDROOM — NIGHT
Aentarra opens the first door on the right and stares at
XANTHES (40, carefree, arrogant, sharp features) in bed with
a WOMAN (slender, leisurely, thin) no older than twenty.
AENTARRA
(scornful)
Get dressed.
Xanthes ushers his companion from the room as he dresses.
XANTHES
What is it? Has someone died?
AENTARRA
Why do people always ask me that?
Am I the harbinger of death? But no
one has died. I simply need to show
you something in Vallah. Something
important.
XANTHES
Tell me.
AENTARRA
I said I needed to show you, not
tell you. And I have no desire to
wait in this disgusting place. Meet
me in my chambers in the morning.
Use the time to satisfy yourself
with that child.
She then Shifts.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
45 -
A Morning's Reflection
INT. VALLAH — AENTARRA'S CHAMBERS — MORNING
Aentarra's supple legs mingle with satin sheets while a
gentle breeze from the balcony caresses silky skin and puffs
sheer curtains.
She stretches, arches her back, then uncoils from the sheets,
goose-bumps rising with the wind's soft touch. Bare feet meet
the marble floor, sending a shiver all the way to her
shoulders, where she shakes it away.
EXT. VALLAH — BALCONY OF AENTARRA'S CHAMBERS — MORNING
Music drifts in from the courtyard and draws her to the
balcony, her smile growing with each step. Mourning doves coo
from their perches in the elms.
A smile stays on her lips until the aria ends, then Aentarra
goes inside.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
46 -
Aentarra's Gentle Rescue
INT. AENTARRA'S CHAMBERS — MORNING
She reaches for her black boots and slides them under
charcoal pants as light as silk. A white blouse with pearl
buttons clings to creamy skin. She passes a reflector, gives
a wry smile and a slight curl of her lips, then departs for
Council.
EXT. COURTYARD — AENTARRA'S CHAMBERS — MORNING
The courtyard is alive with the sounds of birds and the
soothing trickle of waterfalls slipping into obsidian pools.
Aentarra sweeps through the courtyard and up the stairs to a
landing bedecked with sculptures, pillars, and gardens moist
with mist. A discordant chirp of distress calls her eye to
one of the many fountain pools adorning the hall's entrance.
Aentarra's smile vanishes as she bends to pluck a newly
fledged bird from the water.
AENTARRA
What happened, pretty one? Did you
jump from your nest too soon?
She cups the creature in her hand, kisses its head, then
levitates to a spot high in the tree. She places the bird
back in its nest, gives it one last kiss, then descends.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
47 -
Aentarra's Transition
INT. GREAT PATH — MORNING
She continues her journey, stepping through an archway onto
the Great Path, a corridor that describes the tales of old
using paintings and sculptures.
The Great Path reverberates with the sound of Aentarra's
footsteps as leather boots meet the polished surface of black-
marble floors.
Two rows of ornate columns divide the Great Path from the
lesser walkways on each side. Intricate designs spiral
upward, each twist of the stone detailing sculptures that
relate tales of famous battles.
She glances at a sundial through a window to the courtyard,
then decides she will Shift to Council Chambers. She closes
her eyes to concentrate, a rift forms, and she vanishes.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
48 -
Shifting Tensions
INT. INN OF THE TURTLE — UPSTAIRS BEDROOM — LATER
Xanthes rolls over and nibbles the neck of the woman he lies
in bed with.
XANTHES
It was a thrilling night despite my
associate's interference.
WOMAN
Who was she? I didn't like her, and
she frightened me.
Xanthes laughs and rubs her ass while kissing farther down
her body.
XANTHES
She has that effect on people, but
she's nothing to worry about.
WOMAN
You're sure?
XANTHES
Positive. Though now that you've
spoiled my outlook for the day, I
may as well dress.
He gets out of bed and dresses, tosses her a few silver
pieces, then Shifts to chambers.
Genres:
["Drama","Fantasy"]
Ratings
Scene
49 -
Betrayal in the Council Chambers
INT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS — DAY
A rift opens and Xanthes steps out. He glances to his left
and a Slicer strikes his head, just above the right ear. His
hands begin to raise, but then he slumps to the floor.
Aentarra walks toward him from the other side of the room, a
smirk on her face.
AENTARRA
Poor Xanthes. You never learned
that you can trust no one.
She picks him up and places him in an empty seat and then
Shifts.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action"]
Ratings
Scene
50 -
The Report of Escape
INT. SETHIA — SETHIAN PALACE — DAY
Melissara enters Lukaan's chambers and bows before him.
LUKAAN
You have news for me?
Melissara nods but keeps her head hung low.
MELISSARA
Reports just arrived that the boy
got away; in fact, both boys got
away, though the village was
destroyed.
LUKAAN
Do we know where he is?
MELISSARA
Scouts have reported that he
travels with a small band of people
headed toward Sykor.
Lukaan nods, a smile on his face.
LUKAAN
I'm disappointed but not concerned.
We have many allies in Sykor, so he
won't be free for long; besides, I
have waited a thousand years for
vengeance; however long this takes
will be nothing.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
51 -
Whispers of Death
EXT. SYKORAN ROAD FROM KAMNOR — DAY
Darstan wraps his cloak about him tightly and hunches over in
the saddle.
DARSTAN
Tobias, what do you know about
Rhaven?
Tobias turns in the saddle and stares at Darstan, then shakes
his head.
TOBIAS
A lot more than I want to. You
heard me say I was in the Krov war
with him and Takar.
(a beat)
Well, the man kills like a sangra
and a mountain cat combined. I
don't think there's a man alive who
could best him. Fact is, the Krovs
feared him so much, they had a name
for him: Death With Two Swords.
Tobias clears his throat and lights his pipe just as Rhaven
rides up with Kella and rejoins them.
RHAVEN
There's a good dry spot to camp
just ahead. Got a big clearing by a
stream and we can see a long way.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Action","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
52 -
Preparing for the Journey to Sykor
EXT. WOODS BORDERING ROAD TO SYKOR — DAY
Rhaven leads them down a narrow path with thick woods on both
sides. He points ahead to a cleared section.
RHAVEN
The clearing is up there. Tobias
and I will make supper while you
two feed and water the horses. Then
we should rest. I intend to reach
Sykor tomorrow.
Darstan and Rahg feed the horses, then lead them to the
stream where they can drink.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
53 -
Nighttime Camaraderie
EXT. CAMP OFF SYKORAN ROAD — NIGHT
They return to camp and settle into their bedrolls for the
night. Rahg lies next to Kella, and drapes his arm over her.
RAHG
I can’t believe she’s staying with
us.
DARSTAN
Looks like we’ve got a dog — sort
of — now all we need are a couple
of horses.
Genres:
["Fantasy","Adventure"]
Ratings
Scene
54 -
Dreams and Dangers on Sykoran Road
EXT. CAMP OFF SYKORAN ROAD — SYKOR — DAY
Tobias stands by the fire, cooks breakfast and makes coffee.
He glances at Rahg, who is rubbing his temples and the back
of his head.
TOBIAS
Another headache?
Rahg nods and continues rubbing his head as he stands and
walks to the fire.
RAHG
Pretty bad one too. I seem to be
getting a lot of them. Maybe it's
because I dreamed of Wolfen and
Victas, although I did have a good
dream too. A beautiful woman came
and rescued me.
TOBIAS
If I were you, lad. I'd worry more
about that woman than I would the
Wolfen.
Tobias serves breakfast — a few eggs they picked up at the
outpost — then he helps the lads clean up and prepares to
leave.
CAMPSITE NEAR SYKORAN ROAD — CONTINUOUS
Rhaven cleans the campsite and returns it to the way they
found it. He then mounts Argus and whistles for Kella.
RHAVEN
Time to go, boys. The city is still
a long way off.
SYKORAN ROAD — CONTINUOUS
Rhaven leads them back through the woods, then they go south
on the Sykoran Road.
The old mare Darstan rides neighs, and Darstan reaches down
and pats her neck.
DARSTAN
I think she wants to stop. Probably
thirsty.
RHAVEN
Up ahead, the road narrows. There's
a creek nearby and some rocks to
rest on. We'll stop there.
The road narrows and Rhaven points to the side.
RHAVEN (CONT’D)
Right through those trees is a
small creek. Water the horses.
We'll sit on the other side of
these rocks and wait.
As they ride through the gap between the boulders, Rahg rubs
his head and shivers.
RAHG
Damn, that hurts. Feels like
something bit me.
RHAVEN
Get used to things hurting, boy.
Especially when we get to Sykor.
RAHG
I thought Sykor was a safe place
with a lot of guards.
Rhaven laughs.
RHAVEN
It’s got plenty of guards.
Aentarra sits atop the largest of the boulders in a Cloaked
state. She can't be seen or heard or sensed. She forms a
snide look and watches with dark brown eyes.
AENTARRA (V.O.)
(to herself)
You will soon experience much more
than headaches, Rahgnar Fal-Thera.
(a beat)
Before I am through with you, your
headaches will be a fondly recalled
memory.
She continues to watch until they depart, then she closes her
eyes, concentrates, and Shifts.