THE
BLUE MARLIN:
Case
of the
Crimson
Cobra
An original Radio-Noir Play
written for live performance
by
Marcel Nunis
(STAGE VERSION)
Second Draft of version 4
Monday, August
18, 1997
ã 1993 Marcel Nunis
This
play is protected by copyright. Permission to produce this play and questions
about royalty payments may be made directly to the playwright.
Marcel
Nunis 416 East Brown Ave. Fresno, CA 93704
(209)
222-0674
NOTE TO AUDITIONEERS: This script is still undergoing rewrites. As such, some content will be changed.
Main Cast of Characters
Maxie Marlin
Veena Kapoor
Cedric
Dragon Queen
Jamal
Mr. Malik
The Girl
Sydney Woo
Frankie Kwai
Inspector Petrus
Sundry Characters
Waiters
Bellhops
Tour Guide
Sales Person
"The Boys"
Nuns
Checkin Clerk
NOTE:
The idea for this play is
to take the audience from LISTENING to a radio-play to WATCHING one being
performed to a play actually being ACTED out. This process of setting up
conventions and breaking them down takes about 25 minutes. As such, the script resembles the fusion of
screen and radio formats. This was done to best visualize and approximate the
intended style of the piece.
To facilitate this
effectively, the staging in the original production utilized a presentational
style with the only constant being the live musician. This presentational style
was fused with a multi-media approach which included slides projected, shadow
play, live and recorded sound effects and live and recorded music.
Apart from the main
characters of MAXIE, THE GIRL and CEDRIC, all the actors played multiple
parts.
Musical Stings, Stabs and Recorded Selections are underlined in CAPS in the left
margin.
Sound effects, live or recorded are
in CAPS but not underlined.
** (E, E,) Stands for Echo Effect.
(The stage is set up like a radio studio. 3 microphones sits stage center. Down center is an old radio. Behind that, a scrim for slides to be projected on as well as for ‘shadow plays’ to take place --- an upper screen and a lower screen that can be “opened” to give the impression of a doorway. Stage right and left platforms enveloped by scrim for live musicians. Below them the other 2 shadow screens.)
(The stage is dark. We hear…
SNAP SNAP
(Lights come up on the musicians playing a prelude. The focus then shifts to one of the shadow screens below them. It depicts a man eating, choking and dropping dead. A cross- fade to another screen in red--- a mysterious female figure laughing. Suddenly we hear…)
SNAP SNAP
(A musician slapping two pieces of wood together. An actor walks on stage and turns on the radio. The stage suddenly goes dark save a special on the radio. We now hear what seems to be a broadcast coming from the radio.)
News announcer
In Singapore today, notorious underworld overlord Woh Tai Koh was found dead from mysterious causes in his hotel room. Authorities speculate that Mr. Woh was in the island republic attending a suspected underworld summit with the heads of various underworld kingpins from the Asian region collectively known as The Syndicate of which Mr. Woh was a leading member. Police have refused comment. More details on this story as they are made available. The weather today is expected to be rainy and foggy. And now, back to our regular programming.
RADIO STING
Announcer
And once again ladies and gentlemen, its time for THE BLUE MARLIN!
Maxie stab
Announcer
Yes, THE BLUE MARLIN...Episodes in the life of Fresno's own female detective named Maxie with a whole lot of moxie. Tonight's episode...
STAB
The case of the Crimson Cobra! And now....THE BLUE MARLIN!
MAXIE VAMP
Maxie
It was one of those Fresno nights when a gal like me toyed with the notion of slippin into a pair of black pumps and skippin this town for good. Business wasn't bad but the office heater was melting my makeup and makin my face feel like a hog’s meal in July. Now, a good sultry heat can usually stir me up a private smile...if you know what I mean. But this season just didn’t feel right with the rain, the fog and Christmas sneaking up around the corner. This time of the year just hasn't been the same since Mom passed on.
Phone
Maxie
Blue Marlin detective agency. Maxie here. Tell me your story and I'll let you know if you have a case ...Oh...Hi Dad. Fine..yeah. Yeah, I’m watching it on the tube right now. Yeah, Fred & Ginger are the best. What? Oh, I've been busy...cases, you know. Mostly wives checking up on husbands ---the usual. Yeah... I know... I 'm careful.... Dad, Dad? Let’s not start this again please? What? Christmas? Can I call you back on that? I'm just...I'm on my way out. Yeah...I'll talk to you later. Bye.
(Once again we hear....)
Snap snap
(...and the lights come up downstage revealing the actors performing a radio-drama.)
Thunder and lightning and rain
I stepped into the damp Fresno night protected by my electric blue trench coat in search of a little R&R. After five cases in a row... and that call from Dad, I needed something. So, I headed downtown. There was a theatre there where an old client and sometime friend---a smarmy Malaysian playwright was producing a new play of his. This was the same guy who once told me that curry eaters make hot lovers....
SIZZLE
.... now if he could only prove it one out of three times it wouldn't be a bad average. Look I'm no push over but I've always been a sucker for an English accent. So maybe I'd catch the show, make my presence felt and perhaps later we could... cook up a little something together.
Applause
MURMURS OF CROWD MILLING ABOUT
Al
Mr. Nunis, Mr. Nunis, Mr. Nunis! What can I say? It was fabulous...wasn't it Kookie?
Kookie
Uh ha! Just the cat's meow Al!
Al
And the cast. What a cast! Look, I have a little proposition for you. Now, Kookie and I have always been supporters of the arts. In fact last summer we decided it would be a great idea to...
Kookie
But Al, what about that drink you promised me?
Al
Sure...sure Honey buns. Lets talk about this over a drink. In fact, why don't I buy you all a drink. The entire cast!
Hail Hearty Yelps of delight
maxie bass
Maxie
(DOWN) Something told me the curry principle wasn't going to be put to the test...
out
SIZZLE
...at least not tonight.
in
pumps walking
It was time to cut my losses and head on home. But a tastefully dressed woman with sensible shoes cut off my retreat to my beat up Volvo.
out
sensible shoes fast and stop
Veena
Excuse me Miss? You are Miss Marlin? Miss Maxie Marlin?
Maxie
Yes I am. I'm sorry… have we met before?
Veena
We have never met Miss Marlin... but you come highly recommended and I am in need of your services.
Maxie
Look lady, I generally try not to conduct business in a dark parking lot at night.
Veena
Yes... I'm sorry.
Crowd emerging
Please we cannot talk here...take this note and meet me in one hour.
Maxie
One hour?
Veena
It’s all in the note.
Murmurs of Crowd milling about
Maxie
But...
Veena
Please.... one hour.
Maxie
Sure. One hour.
Sensible shoes quickly away
MAXIE BASS
(DOWN) The note had a name attached to it---Veena Kapoor...it also had the name of a local hangout. I figured I'd make the rendezvous, listen to the schpiel, politely say no and perhaps salvage the rest of the evening.
bar noises
It was crowded when I got there. Livingston's usually was on show nights. (***Add & improvise pretentious dialog here. ) You know...theatre types. Anyway, I scanned the area and eyeballed the mysterious Miss Kapoor sitting in a dimly lit booth. (UP) Miss Kapoor?
Veena
Miss Marlin. I'm so glad you came. I must apologize for my behavior earlier.
I suppose you must be use to frantic clients in your line of work.
Maxie
Goes with the job. Now how can I help you?
Veena
That's a very interesting pendent you're wearing.
Ching
It’s an unusual piece and very old I'm sure.
Maxie
It’s a family heirloom… something my mother gave me. But, we didn’t meet to talk about my pendant, did we Miss Kapoor? How did you find me?
Veena
I...I was guided to you.
Ching
Maxie
Guided huh?
Veena
As I said before---you do come highly recommended. In fact, I feel I already know you quite well.
Maxie
Yeah, I've known that feeling once or twice myself. So, tell me your story Miss Kapoor and I'll let you know if you have a case.
Veena
Veena, please...it’s less formal. And for the proposition I'm about to make---I would be more comfortable knowing I was making it to a...a friend.
Maxie
Well, that all depends on the proposition.
Veena
How would you feel about an all expense paid trip to the Far East?
Maxie
Look, this is all very nice but when I checked this morning it wasn't my birthday. So what gives?
Veena
Yes...well, there's something from Malaysia I need you to bring back for me. Nothing illegal. It’s...a family heirloom.
ching
Like your lovely pendent...its something that's been in our family for generations.
Maxie
Look, Miss Kapoor...I can give you the name and number of a colleague who
specializes in cases like this...
Veena
I would prefer if you handled this yourself.
Maxie
This guy handles cases like this all the time and...
Veena
No! Miss Marlin, there really is no one else I can turn to ...Please!
$5000 if you accept...and another 5000 when you return. Here is a first class ticket with a return date in two weeks.
ching
Maxie
Veena, right?
Veena
Yes, Miss Marlin.
Maxie
Maxie please...its...its less formal.
maxie bass
(DOWN) O.K. so this Veena Kapoor was a little intense but she was talking serious Moolah…my kind of language. Besides, she wore sensible shoes.
out
Veena
You will take this case?
Maxie
Now Veena, I’ll be getting a first class all expense paid vacation... to pick up...an antique chest of drawers?
snap snap
(From this point on the actors begin to drop their scripts and begin "interacting" with each other.)
Veena
This is no chest of drawers. Believe me it is much more.
Maxie
Exactly, how much more?
Veena
mystical hum
You see Maxie...Its a Crimson Cobra.
mystical stab
Maxie
A Crimson Cobra?
mystical stab
Veena
Yes...and only one of two exist in the entire world!
mystical stab
It stands about 13 inches tall and both pieces were carved from one solid piece of ruby. Unfortunately, its twin has been lost.
Maxie
I see. So, this... heirloom must be a much sought after acquisition.
Veena
mystical hum
Yes, but the Crimson Cobra is more than just an exquisite piece of sculpture.
mystical sting
It came from a temple that has long since disappeared. A very powerful temple. In the wrong hands, there's no telling what could be unleashed.
(In the screen we see the figure of a man repeating the dropping dead sequence from the beginning.)
For those obvious reasons, its secret location can only be revealed to you on the night before your return here.
Maxie
I see. So what do I do until then?
Veena
You will be on… vacation. I have taken the liberty of booking you into some of the most luxurious and exotic locations that part of the world has to offer...and there is the generous fee of course.
hum out
Maxie
Yes, lets not forget the generous fee.
Veena
So, will you take this case?
Maxie
Could you give me a minute to think about this?
Veena
Yes, yes. I'm sure all this sounds a little like something that tickles the
overactive imagination.
maxie bass
Maxie
(DOWN) The only thing tickling my imagination at the moment was the prospect of going to a part of the world that was populated with curry eaters
sizzle
---lots of curry eaters.
sizzle
This was either some cosmic payback for good karma or I was having a really good hair day.
out
(UP) Well Veena...
Veena
Yes...Maxie?
Maxie
When do I leave?
Veena
Tomorrow...if you agree to one condition.
Maxie
Condition? What condition?
Veena
I am sure you will have a wonderful time on this trip. But I'm afraid I have to insist this… good time be tempered with some… restraint.
Maxie
What do you mean?
Veena
You see, because of its mystical stature, the...the bearer of the Crimson Cobra...
Maxie
The Bearer… meaning me… should I take this case…
Veena
Yes. Now, how can I put this in a delicate way...well, the bearer of the Crimson Cobra has to be...chaste.
bump
Its not a question of virginity mind you...
Maxie
Good. That could have been a little complicated. Chaste huh?
bump
From when to when exactly?
Veena
From now until the Cobra is back in my possession.
Maxie
And if this bearer is not chaste?
Bump
Veena
It would be unwise to tempt the fates Maxie--- extremely unwise. There are certain things we should never question.
Maxie
Like always keeping a pair of spare underwear in one’s purse.
Veena
Excuse me?
Maxie
Its something my mother always told me to do and I've lived by that even until today. Never questioned it or nothing.
Veena
Really? You know Maxie, my own mother always told me to wear clean underwear...and I too have always done so without question.
Maxie
Same difference. Us girls...we understand these things. Now that's out of the way.... exactly how chaste are we talking about?
bump
Veena
Lets just say...possible romantic encounters on this trip should never develop into intimate ones.
Maxie
First base huh?
Veena
Please Maxie, it is of the utmost importance this condition be met.
Maxie
This is not exactly the kind of vacation I had in mind.
Veena
This is a picture of the last person who did not heed this warning.
bump, bump
Maxie
Ouch! O.K. you've made your point...and an ugly one it is too.
Veena
That was my sister… my older sister.
Maxie
Your older sister? Older by about 30 years I’m guessing.
Veena
She’s actually 2 years older than me. Well, Maxie, are you up to it?
Maxie
Veena,...let me just say....I think curry eaters are overrated anyway.
sizzle
(Once again we hear...)
snap snap
(From this point on the actors will "Act " out the rest of the play in a presentational style. Maxie is assisted with her electric blue trench coat.)
( The lights dim. The right screen lights up with Slide: The San Francisco Skyline… revealing the silhouette of a man, John, who seems to be listening to the following on an answering machine. )
beep
Voice of Maxie
Dad? Maxie. I'm in town… but I’m calling from San Francisco International. Er... Dad, something's come up on a case... I can't explain now but it's nothing serious... I'm going to be out of the country so I can't make it for Christmas. Gotta run... my plane is about to leave. I'll try to call from there and I'll see you when I get back in two weeks!
click
PHONE
John
Maxie? Oh its you. Yes, I’ve heard… she left a message on my machine. Look, she doesn’t know… she has never known! Yes. I understand there can be no interference but… very well. I promise there will be no interference… in fact, I’ll gurentee it. (John puts down the phone. Airplane sounds begin. He picks the phone up again.) Hello? Information?
Airplane sounds
fade into something swank and colonial (CHECKOUT "TRUTH & BEAUTY" FROM "HEAR MY SONG" SOUNDTRACK)
(SLIDE: of Singapore is Projected on the top Screen)
maxie
Singapore---Once the crown jewel of the British colonial empire--- now a high-tech island nation with more than its fair share of anal-retentive accountants. The moment I stepped off the plane the steamy, sultry heat affected me like it never did before.
(Enter Maxie. A couple of hunky soccer players brush past her. The top screen reveals Veena)
veena
Maxie, it is of the utmost importance that the bearer be
chaste. (Chaste has an echo
effect.)
Maxie
And with my newfound limitations there was little relief in sight. Then again, I
was booked into the Raffle's hotel---one of the last remnants of colonial swank and flamboyance... and for now, that seemed like a fair trade.
(SLIDE: The Raffles Hotel. Actors who have donned "white" apparel strike a pretentious pose.)
Bellhop
The elevators are this way Miss Marlin...
(Maxie drops her key.)
Cedric
Here, let me get that for you. (Picks up key and giving it to Maxie.)
Maxie
Thanks.
Cedric
The pleasure was all mine. Checking in I hope.
Maxie
Yes. Yes, I just did.
Cedric
That’s fortunate. I checked in myself about an hour ago.
Maxie
An hour ago?
Cedric
Yes…
maxie
That’s nice. (An awkward pause.) I suppose I should go up to my room now.
cedric
Yes, of course. Perhaps we'll have the pleasure of running into each other again...soon.
Maxie
Perhaps. (To bellhop) Hey, the rooms here have cold showers, don't they?
Bellhop
Yes Miss... hot and cold.
Maxie
Cold will do for now.
(Exit Bellhop and Maxie. A shady character---Sydney---puts down the paper he is reading and pulls out a cell phone.)
Sydney
It’s me. Inform the circle of 21… tell them that the prey has arrived.
( Actors clear the stage. Maxie emerging from the "French doors". Enter Cedric.)
Cedric
Well, I see we're neighbors.
Maxie
What?
Cedric
I'm in the room just down the hall. Are you on your way out too? Perhaps we could...
Maxie
No...No, Just coming in.
Cedric
Oh?
Maxie
Yes...Jet lag!
Cedric
Of course.
Maxie
Bye! (Enters
"French doors". Exit Cedric. Maxie peeks out to see that he is gone.)
(DOWN) I could tell that he was going to be trouble---my kind of
trouble...but the kind of I couldn't afford to specialize in right now. (Bellhop walks by.) Psst.
Bellhop
Yes, Miss... (Maxie beckons the bellhop into the room. Sydney & Frankie sneaks by from around the corner. Looks at the room number and leaves.)
(A small table is set up with two chairs. The Actors don formals. Enter Maxie who sits at the table and looks at the menu. Enter bellhop who whispers something in her ear. Enter Cedric in evening formals. Maxie pays the bellhop.)
Cedric
Wonderful evening.
Maxie
Yes, it certainly is.
Cedric
May I?
Maxie
I don’t see why not... I was just leaving. (Exit.)
(Two deck chairs are set up. Actors put on shades and get into new swimming pool poses. Enter Maxie who makes herself comfortable in a deck chair. Enter bellhop who whispers something in Maxie's ears. Enter Cedric bare-chested with shades and towel. Maxie pays bellhop.)
Cedric
Nice day, isn't it? Lovely warm weather.
Maxie
Yeah, but it got just a little too warm for me. (Beckoning the Bellhop as she exits.)
(The next sequence with the Bellhop is a shadow play.)
knock, knock
bellhop
Miss Marlin? Room Service. Your breakfast.
knock, knock
bellhop
Room service, Miss Marlin...Your dinner.
knock, knock
bellhop
Room service. The champagne you ordered?
(Emerging from the "French door" screen. Looking around then...)
Maxie
After being holed up for 3 days in my room, I decided to brave the sultry weather and catch some of the sights. Still, I wasn't taking any chances and booked myself on a bus tour with a bunch of Irish Nuns.
(Two actors with habits set up 4 chairs to simulate the bus and take their places along with the tour guide.)
Tour guide
This way please...
(The brood gets on the bus.)
Maxie
I had one more day in Singapore and what could possibly happen in one day?
(Enter Cedric.)
Tour Guide
There you are sir... we were just about to leave.
Cedric
(Sits next to Maxie.) I see you're on this bus tour as well. How fortunate. I'm Cedric. I guess we're riding together.
Maxie
Oh, God!
first verse of "on a little street in Singapore"
(SLIDE: Scenes of Singapore are projected on to the screen. Possibly a dissolve effect simulating motion.)
Maxie
I could take the blue eyes and the fact that he happened to be drop dead handsome. But did he have to have such a dreamy English accent? And did he have to sit next to me?
Tour Guide
Ladies and gentlemen, over to your right is the world famous Bugis street and up ahead you can see the Temple of 10,000 Lights.
Cedric
You are American, aren’t you?
Maxie
Yes. And you're English.
Cedric
Very much so I'm afraid.
Maxie
Yeah, so am I.
(The song ends as the bus comes to a screeching halt.)
Tour Guide
Ladies and gentlemen, we will now stop for lunch. This area is Change Alley---famous all over the world for shopping. We will meet back at the bus in 2 hours.
Cedric
Excuse me, would you care to join me for a spot of lunch? Perhaps some curry? I do love a good curry don't you?
sizzle
Maxie
No... no thank you. I have some shopping to do.
Cedric
Yes, well...some other time perhaps.
Maxie
Perhaps. (Maxie walks away.)
Cedric
(Following her.) First time here...in Singapore?
Maxie
Yes. This is my first time. (Walking away.)
Cedric
(Following her again.) I've been here several times myself. Know the place quite well actually.
Maxie
That’s nice.
(SLIDE: The Merlion)
Cedric
Perhaps I could show you a little something of the place. A bit of the real Singapore. Now you see that over there? That's the Merlion. An odd creature, don't you think? A lion's head with the body of a fish. (Maxie begins to sneak away. Two Nuns from the bus take her place.) It’s the symbol for Singapore. Legend has it that a Sumatran prince fleeing from assassination landed on this island… its all very romantic really. You see, it was a moonlit night and this prince... (Looks around and Maxie isn't there but the two Nuns are.) Oh.... hello, sisters?
Nun 1
And what happened when this prince landed?
Nun 2
Yes, do tell us!
Nun 1
Please do continue with your fascinating and very romantic story.
cedric
Sisters!
Nun 2
Yes, please do.
Cedric
Well, he came across a lion here…
Nun 2
At this very spot?
Cedric
No, actually we’re not quite sure where…
Nun 1
But it was somewhere on this island.
Cedric
Yes.
Nun 2
And then what happened?
cedric
Then he called this place Singapura---
Nuns
Singapura!
Nun 2
Why?
Cedric
Why? Why did he call this place Singapura?
Nun 2
Yes.
cedric
Well, that means Lion City in the Malay language.
Nun 2
I see.
Nun 1
To come across such a powerful creature underneath the tropical moon. Oh, that is romantic isn't it Sister?
Nun 2
Like the Blarney Stone back home.
Nun 1
But why does it have a body of a fish?
Cedric
Here, you can read all about it for yourself, sisters.
Nun 2
Oh, but its just not the same, is it sister?
Nun 1
Yes. Its much nicer being shown around by a personal guide… don’t you think sister?
Nun 2
Oh yes sister, it’s so much nicer with a personal guide.
(Exit.)
(The actors don "street" Clothes and a Bazaar is set up on stage.)
(SLIDE of Street Vendors.)
Chinese sting
Salesperson
Come, come, Missy... Genuine Rolex watch! Only 50 dollar! You my first customer...bring me good luck. For you I give 40 dollar.
Maxie
Make it 20.
Salesperson
20 dollar? Hai-ya! How can? 35 dollar I give you! This one real Rolex!
Maxie
Sure...a real imitation Rolex! $ 20 or no sale.
Salesperson
O.K., O.K. 20 dollar lah!
Maxie
Nice doing business with you.
Salesperson
This one no business. This one you robbing me!
Woo
I see you haven't lost your touch Miss Marlin.
gasp
Maxie
Sydney, Sydney Woo...
Wood blocks
...and Frankie!
Cowbell
Frankie
Wrong time no see, Miss Marrin!
Maxie
I see you're still struggling with that awful R and L substitution Frankie.
SYDNEY’S BASS LINE
(DOWN) It was that Chinese lizard Sydney Woo Fei Loh and his trusty gecko Frankie Kwai Chee Chak--- both formally of San Francisco's slimy underworld. Sydney was a known white slave trader who was deported a few years back---for smuggling live monkeys into the country.
out
(UP) Sydney, I thought you were exiled in Macao.
Woo
No thanks to you. But enough about me...what brings you to the island of Singapore?
Maxie
At least my passport has my own name on it. Do the authorities know you're here?
Woo
Singapore is a free port Miss Marlin. Businessmen from all over the world are welcomed here.
Frankie
Yes, Miss Marrin...this week we have big businessmen flom arr ove South East Asia...
Woo
Shuttup Frankie!
Frankie
Solly Boss.
Maxie
So Sydney, still trading in Monkeys or have you run out of relatives to sell?
Woo
Very witty Miss Marlin...Very Witty indeed. But you are no longer in America so I would be careful with my wit if I were you.
Wood blocks
Frankie
Yes, Miss Marrin...Vely Cearfur indeed.
Woo
Mysterious things have a tendency of occurring in the Orient. Unexplained disappearances leaving more questions than answers.
Maxie
Did I just hear a threat?
Woo
A threat? I was merely suggesting the return of a favor.
Maxie
What favor?
woo
A favor you owe me. After all you were instrumental in my apprehension and subsequent deportation from the land of the free.
Maxie
Half the police force in the city of San Francisco was instrumental in your deportation Sydney... including my father. Do they all owe you favors?
Woo
I collect when the opportunities avail themselves.
Frankie
Rike now!
Woo
Your testimony was very damaging and we do so miss San Fransisco...
Frankie
"I reft my heart in San Flansisco...."
Woo
Shuttup Frankie....Sorry Miss Marlin… its too much damn kereoke!
Maxie
I'm touched... but you brought that on yourself, Sydney.
Woo
I beg to differ...
Maxie
You can beg all you want...it doesn't change a thing. And I still don’t take bribes.
Woo
But we could have worked so well together---you and I.
Maxie
In your dreams, Sydney. And just for the record, I owe you nothing.
Woo
I'm disappointed. The daughter of the reputable Captain John Marlin refuses to honor a favor. It would break his heart to know this...as much as it broke his
heart when you left the force for... private practice.
Frankie
Shame, shame, shame Miss Marrin.
Maxie
Lets not talk about my father.
Woo
I have always been curious about the circumstances surrounding your untimely … retirement from the San Francisco Police Department.
Frankie
Were you a naughty gir, Miss Marrin? Your daddy no rike what you do?
Maxie
I said, keep my father out of this!
Woo
But you were the one who brought him up...and I am only trying to keep you honest Miss Marlin. Despite our differences I respected your father. In fact, it was a favor I owed him that kept you alive to honor the favor you owe me today.
Maxie
Nice try Sydney...but the way I remember it...you blew your chance when your
gun ran out of bullets. Remember the sound of the click when you pointed your gun at me and pulled the trigger?
Woo
The truth has many sides to it.
Maxie
I like my side...yours has too many holes.
Woo
Come now Miss Marlin we go back a long way...perhaps you could consider this favor...as a gift. Where is your Christmas spirit?
Frankie
"Deck the harrs wit boughs of horry...."
Woo
Oh, Shuttup....besides you’re Buddhist!
Maxie
Christmas spirit? I’ve checked Santa's list and you've been very naughty...sorry boys, no gift.
Frankie
Oh, too bad!
Woo
Frankie!
Maxie
But out of curiosity... just how would you suggest I pay back this so called favor?
Woo
You are a beautiful American woman Miss Marlin---a valuable commodity in this part of the world. In the spirit of the season...I was only suggesting you spread a little ...goodwill among some gentlemen I know.
Maxie
Are these the same kind of gentlemen who would spoon the brains out of a live monkey's skull?
Woo
With a splash of brandy, it’s quite a delicacy.
Maxie
Once a flesh monger...always a flesh monger, huh? I'm flattered Sydney...but you may have forgotten---I wasn't for sale then and I'm not for sale now!
1 block
Woo
But you may have forgotten Miss Marlin---the commodity in this case never determines the buying or the selling.
1 block
Frankie
And you may have folgotten---there's two of us and onry one of you!
Woo
Good point Frankie.
Frankie
Thank you Boss.
woo
So lets not make a fuss and come quietly with us.
Maxie
I would Sydney, but you may have forgotten one little detail---I know your little secret.
2 blocks
Woo
W...Whatever are you talking about Miss Marlin?
Maxie
You know,.. that little problem you have.
Frankie
Boss, I think she is talking about...
Woo
Shuttup Frankie! Problem? Problem...Miss Marlin? (Beginning to breathe hard.) It’s not a problem---It’s a condition!
Maxie
Well then, you wouldn't want me to aggravate this... condition, would you?
Woo
(Breathing real Hard.) You wouldn't Miss Marlin.... Not here.
Maxie
SYDNEY’S BASS LINE
(DOWN) Now old Sydney had a curious...condition. For some strange reason he had an allergic reaction to women's underwear. Even the mere mention of an unmentionable would send him into a violent fit. Must be tough to be put down by something that should have given you a rise in the first place.
out
(UP) Oh look, Sydney....a button just came undone off my blouse.
WOo
NO! NO! NOT THAT! (Beginning to wheeze)
Frankie
Crose youl eyes Boss! Miss Marrin! Have you no decency? In bload dayright---in the stleet?
Maxie
A girl's got to do what a girls got to do, Frankie. Besides he started it.
Frankie
But Miss Marrin....
Maxie
So Sydney, shall I tell you what I'm wearing under this?
Woo
No please no...(Frantic Wheezing.) Don’t tell me anything!
Maxie
Are you sure, Sydney? You know when I got out of the shower this morning I thought to myself… I want to feel comfortable and sexy on my tour of Singapore. What could I wear that would feel just… mmm… up against my bare skin. Then it came to me… why don’t I just slip into that little…
Frankie
No, Miss Marrin, Preese! Boss, quick cover your ears!
Woo
Shuttup Frankie!
Frankie
Yes Boss.
Maxie
No… perhaps it would be better if I show you!
Sydney
NO! PLEASE NO!
(Sydney's wheezing is fast climbing to a crescendo.)
Frankie
I beg you Miss Marrin… Please, No!
Maxie
O.K. Sydney, I'll let you off this time. As you said, it is Christmas. See? It’s buttoned again.
(Wheezing hits a crescendo and deflates with a shudder.)
Frankie
You O.K. boss?
Woo
Now Miss Marlin, that was not necessary. We go back a long way...you and I...and your father...this is just a friendly chance meeting of old acquaintances.
Maxie
A friendly meeting? Acquaintances? I don't think so.
Woo
It would surprise you to know how far back your father and I go.
Cedric
(Appearing as a shadow on the Screen.) Miss Marlin? Miss Marlin?
Woo
Ah, so you're in Singapore with a friend?
Maxie
That is none of your business.
Woo
Perhaps we'll all get aquatinted some other time.
Maxie
Don't count on it.
Woo
Again, that choice may not be yours to make, Miss Marlin.
Cedric
(From the Screen again.) Miss Marlin?
Maxie
Oh look Sydney, another button just came undone.
Frankie
Boss, isn't that....
Maxie
And another little button is about to...
Woo
Let’s go Frankie! Now!
Frankie
Yes, boss!
Woo
Perhaps another time, Miss Marlin.
Maxie
Don’t hold your breath, Sydney.
(Exit Woo and Frankie. Enter Cedric.)
Cedric
Are you all right, Miss Marlin?
Maxie
Yes, yes, I'm fine.
(We see the shadows of Woo and Frankie on the Screen.)
Cedric
Perhaps it is fortunate I arrived when I did. There's no telling what those unsavory characters might have done.
Maxie
Hardly a problem I couldn't skirt around on my own.
Cedric
Yes...well...
Maxie
But I do appreciate you looking out for me.
Cedric
I see that for one so attractive you are wise to the ways of the street.
Maxie
You are very … kind to say so.
cedric
I say, you have done some shopping. That's a very attractive pendant. Did you get that from around here?
Maxie
No, it was a gift from a long time ago. My mother gave it to me.
Cedric
Really. It’s quite exquisite.
maxie
Thank you.
Cedric
But it pales in comparison to the person wearing it.
maxie
I must be on my way... I think I saw some silk bathrobes down the street and…
Cedric
Look Miss Marlin I think its only fair to let you know that I find you frightfully attractive and I....
Maxie
How did you know my name? I don't recall giving it to you at anytime.
Cedric
Our tour guide was kind enough to furnish me with it.
Maxie
Oh, she did, did she?
Cedric
Oh, yes...but she didn't volunteer it, mind you. Not willingly.
Maxie
No?
Cedric
Not at first. Actually I had to beat your name out of the poor woman and leave her sprawled in an alleyway.
Maxie
You're very persistent.
Cedric
Yes, I'm sure she thought so too. Do you think the poor dear will ever forgive me?
Maxie
And a bit of a lunatic as well.
Cedric
So you've seen through my facade Miss Marlin. Yes, I am a lunatic. Stark raving mad, really. I escaped from an asylum last week, murdered a member of parliament, stole his credit cards and am presently on a worldwide spree of mayhem and murder.
Maxie
Is that a fact?
Cedric
Absolutely.
Slow Rumba and stop
Now I was about to suggest perhaps dinner and after that a quiet stroll down the esplanade and ...
Maxie
Look, before you go any further... I'm very flattered but I have to say no.
Cedric
Of course...
Maxie
I’m sorry but…
cedric
No, please forgive me. No explanation necessary. There probably is a Mr. Marlin somewhere....
Maxie
Yes. He's about six three. Works out with weights everyday and is very jealous and extremely protective of me.
Cedric
Oh...
Maxie
He’s also is very good with firearms. But he does have a sensitive side and we do share a common love for spicy food and old Fred Astaire movies.
Cedric
Fred Astaire?
Maxie
Yes.
Cedric
I'm partial to Gene Kelly myself.
Maxie
That’s too bad. Oh, did I mention that he works out with weights every day and is a crack shot with a magnum 44?
Cedric
You made that point especially clear. I'm sorry... I didn't mean to...he must be a very special and lucky man.
Maxie
Oh yes...and he's also my father.
Cedric
Touché. Point well played.
Maxie
It's all in the timing. Something....Mr. Marlin taught me.
Cedric
Mr. Marlin taught you well. Then, the evening is ours.
slow rumba
We could begin with drinks on the terrace...there's a lovely breeze that blows there…
Maxie
But I'm leaving tomorrow and...
Cedric
It’s quite splendid. Maughm and Kipling were regulars, you know?
Maxie
Maughm & Kipling? I didn't know that...
Cedric
Yes, I’ve heard they were never more inspired than when they were in this part of the world.
Maxie
But I really cannot... I should not...
Cedric
And the dining room---very posh---serves a scrumptious buffet...white linen tablecloths...candles... silverware
Maxie
Then again, I suppose we are both on vacation and...
Cedric
And the curries....
out
Maxie
The Curries?
bump
No...maybe it’s not such a good idea.
Cedric
The Curries?
Maxie
The whole thing. I'm sorry.
Cedric
Yes, so am I. Look, this doesn't have anything to do with the fact that I'm a raging homosexual, does it?
Maxie
No. What? Are you really gay?
Cedric
Well...no. But right now I would say just about anything for the opportunity to share a… cocktail with you. At least one.
Maxie
You are very persistent.
Cedric
Extremely. All I want to do really is… lay my bottle on the lip of your cup and… pour.
Maxie
O.K. one drink...that's all.
Cedric
On the terrace at eight?
Maxie
The terrace at eight.
Cedric
Until then, may I show you the sights of this city? We could begin with the store selling silk bathrobes…
Last verse of "On a little street in Singapore"
(We see silhouettes of Cedric and Maxie "looking at the sights" as slides of tourist spots in Singapore are flashing on the right screen as the stage is being set up for The Terrace Scene. This fades into…)
(The left screen. The figures of Sydney & Frankie and members of the Syndicate are in view.)
Kingpin 2
You have kept us waiting Mr. Woo.
Woo
I’m sorry. I apologise.
Kingpin 1
We do not take kindly to tardiness.
Kingpin 2
Or failure.
Kingpin 1
It is our understanding that your trap Mr. Woo did not ensnare “the prey”.
Frankie
She got away.
Woo
Shuttup Frankie!
Kingpin 1
Is this true?
woo
Yes.
Kingpin 2
Should we offer the open seat in the circle of 21 to someone more worthy?
Woo
No. Please.
Kingpin 2
We are in a difficult situation, you understand.
Kingpin 1
We still have to find a successor for the late Tai Koh.
Kingpin 2
But we cannot… we dare not… not until this little problem is settled.
Kingpin 1
We have already lost one. We cannot afford to lose more.
Woo
I understand. I will take care of it.
Kingpin 2
Then we will keep the seat vacant until you do.
Kingpin 1
And if you don’t… you do understand the consequences.
Kingpin 2
This Syndicate is made up of some of the most powerful people in this region of the world. Powerful people who cannot afford to lose face.
Kingpin 1
And that bitch is holding our alliance and our lives hostage. We do not take this lightly Mr. Woo.
Kingpin 1
And neither should you.
Woo
I will take care of it.
Kingpin 1
And when you do…
Kingpin 2
If you are successful…
Kingpin 1
Only then will we consider inviting you to sit with us.
Kingpin 2
But if you don’t…
Kingpin 1
You do realize there will be no where to hide.
Kingpin 2
Are we understood?
Woo
Yes. Very clearly.
(Exit Kingpins.)
Full Slow Rumba
Cocktail sounds
Maxie
(Enter. The Terrace) It was 7:55. A light breeze was blowing, the moon was shimmering off the Straits of Malacca and I was waiting for Cedric to arrive. I tried calling Veena to tell her that I was chucking this assignment... but the circuits were busy. Look, it was more than just the English accent---Cedric made me laugh. For the rest of the day he would surprise me by saying the most absurd, stupid things...and I liked it. He made me feel like a giddy headed schoolgirl---and it’s been a long time since I felt that way...a very long time. (Lights fade.)
out
FULL SLOW RUMBA AGAIN
Maxie
(Lights up. Maxie at a table on The Terrace. Silhouettes of people dancing in the Screen.) It was 8:36. The crowd on the terrace had gone in for dinner but I was enjoying the solitude. Dad would have loved this place. It was like something out of a Fred Astaire movie. He and Mom met at a Fred Astaire movie. It sounds silly I know but there was something that made this feel like it was all part of some strange destiny. And I was guessing that Cedric was going to be a big part of it. So he was a little late...or maybe I was early. No matter. The night was still young. (Lights fade.)
out
FULL SLOW RUMBA
Maxie
(Shockered at her table.) It was 9:15 and all this waiting was beginning to really put a wrinkle in my shorts.
out
(UP) Waiter!
Waiter
Yes mam!
Maxie
I think that was 6 Singapore Slings.
Waiter
I'll get your bill, Mam.
Maxie
Sure. (DOWN) O.K. so I was duped by the sultry heat and an English accent that really wasn't all that hot to begin with. To be honest, he sounded a little like Roger Moore with wooden dentures.
Bellhop
(Enter.) Miss Marlin?
Maxie
Oh, its you. Is he coming?
Bellhop
No, Miss Marlin. Message for you.
Maxie
Thanks...here.
bellhop
Thank You Miss. (Exit.)
Maxie
(DOWN) Maybe I
figured him all wrong. This was probably a note telling me how sorry he was for
standing me up and how he would like to make it up with champagne and a
midnight swim and...and...(Pause)
Veena
(A Shadow in the Screen reading the telegram .) Maxie, your vacation will have to be cut short, stop. A complication has arisen, stop. Delivery will have to be made sooner than expected, stop. Your contact will meet you in Kuala Lumpur
tomorrow with details, stop. Sorry for the short vacation, stop. I am counting on you Maxie, stop. Only you can do it, stop. Veena.
Waiter
(Enter.) Your check, mam.
Maxie
Champagne, Midnight swim---yeah right. The only midnight swim I was going to be taking would be in a lonely tub in my room.
Waiter
Yes, mam...whatever you say.
Maxie
I'm sorry, it’s not your fault. Here. (Putting something on the waiter's plate.) Here. You have a good evening...I was supposed to.
Waiter
Thank you...Er...Mam?
Maxie
Yeah...
Waiter
About this bill, mam…
maxie
What? You want a bigger tip?
Waiter
No Mam...payment for the drinks will be quite enough.
Maxie
I’m sure I left enough to cover it…
Waiter
Payment is usually made with currency, Mam. (Holding up a black lace number.) This I'm afraid wouldn't even cover much of the woman it was made for.
Maxie
What? Oh, I'm sorry. It’s just my mother always told me to... never mind. Here. Keep the change.
Waiter
Thank you Mam. And...here...perhaps you should keep yours.
(Enter actors who "set up" Maxie's hotel room...scattering clothes around. On the screen we see Maxie coming into the room.)
Maxie
Perhaps I should go to his room---nah! His loss. Destiny! Have a couple of drinks and suddenly you're a sucker for destiny. “I just want to lay my bottle on the lip of your cup and… pour” Yeah, right! The faster this job was over the better.
She opens the door, turns on the light and...)
mondo stab
phone
Hello?
dragon queen
(On the phone. A Shadow in the Screen.) Miss Marlin, If you want to see your friend alive again...meet me in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow night.
Maxie
What friend?
Cedric
Maxie! Don't do it! Don't!...let me go!
Maxie
Cedric!
Dragon Queen
That friend, Miss Marlin. Remember him?
Maxie
Who are you?
Dragon Queen
You will be provided with the location of our meeting when you arrive.
Maxie
Put Cedric on!
Dragon queen
And please do not inform the police...or you'll be seeing your friend again...apiece at a time... through the mail. And we all know how easily things get lost in the mail.
Maxie
Wait!
click
(DOWN) Damn! I hate it when they hang up like that. Cedric! Six Singapore slings---A shower---that’s what I need. (Exit to shower.)
SYDNEY’S BASS LINE
( We see the silhouettes of Frankie and Sydney. They enter the room. Frankie holds up a pair of panties. Sydney is reviled by the sight of underwear and lets out a muffled yelp. )
OUT.
Maxie
(From inside.) Is someone out there? (Sydney and Frankie quickly exit. Enter Maxie in bathrobe looks around. Picks up the phone.) Hello? Hello? Front desk?(All responses from the phone here are squeaky “me, me, mes”.) Is there a flight out to Kuala Lumpur tonight? Midnight? Send a bellhop up for my bags. Yes, I'm checking out tonight. Yes, I know I'm paid for until tomorrow---but I want to check out tonight! Don't worry about a refund---it’s on me, O.K.? Thank you. (Looks around.) I'll deal with this later. (Exits to shower.)
SYDNEY’S BASS LINE
( Frankie enters the room and gathers the underwear and exits. Enter Maxie.)
OUT
Maxie
(Looking for underwear and packing at the same time.) Who ever was here had a mighty strange fetish---they're all gone---some of my favorites too!
knock knock
Come in! You can take that bag on the bed. This one will be ready as soon as I...
Woo
That's a very attractive bathrobe you're wearing.
Sydney’s BASS LINE
Maxie
Sydney!
Woo
It looks like silk. It is silk, isn't it?
Maxie
Yes, a purchase I made after our meeting today. But its little late for a social call, don't you think Sydney?
Woo
Oh, life in Singapore begins at 10 Miss Marlin. And where is your friend? Frankie and I thought we show you two the sights of the city.
Maxie
My friend? Oh... He has his own room.
Woo
Separate rooms? Very honorable Miss Marlin...especially for you.
bump
Its unfortunate he's not here...perhaps we can fetch him at his own room later.
Maxie
So, where's Frankie? You two are usually joined at the hip.
Woo
He is waiting for us downstairs in the car.
Maxie
Thank you for your kind offer...but I’ll have to decline.
Woo
(Taking out a gun.) Oh, I insist.
Maxie
Sydney, I'm surprised. Don't you know guns are illegal in Singapore?
Woo
Yes, they are...which means you do not have one. Please, would you turn around?
Maxie
What do you want Sydney?
Woo
Some of my...clients heard about our meeting earlier and would very much like to meet you. As I said before...businessmen from all over the world come to Singapore and my business is to make their stay... memorable. Please...indulge me. (Sydney waves the gun. Maxie turns.) Interesting design. Why a dragon?
Maxie
According to the Chinese lunar calendar I was born in the year of the dragon.
Woo
Yes. An exquisite design. And I also see you have inherited many of your
mother's finer features.
Maxie
You knew my mother?
Woo
An enchanting lady...and elegant dancer. We met at the ballroom dancing competition of San Fransisco in 1956. I was the Cha Cha King that year.
Maxie
I'm impressed, Sydney.
Woo
Your mother and father took the grand trophy. As I recall they danced a routine to the song "Lets face the music and dance." Do you know it? (begins to sing.) "There may be troubles ahead..."
Maxie
Yes. I know it.
Woo
Forgive me...it has always been one of my favorite songs. Ah, those were the days. Happier times. See Miss Marlin, your father and I do go back a long way.
Maxie
Knowing that just brings a tear to my eye, Sydney.
woo
You know, I could never understand how he came up with those brilliant sequences in his routines. They were so unpredictable and stunning. Do you dance too? 1...2...cha, cha, cha. 3...4...cha, cha cha. (Begins to sing Oy Como Va.)
Maxie
(In mock applause.) Very good, Sydney. I can see why you were Cha Cha King of 1956.
Woo
Its all in the timing you know. Perhaps we could work up a little routine for my clients...you and I.
Maxie
Maybe we could do better, Sydney.
Woo
How so? You will dance for me?
Maxie
No, I was just wondering what kind of undergarments your clients prefer on girls.... Pushup bras and lace panties?
Woo
(LAUGHING) Very good, Miss Marlin. Very good. You are a Dragon child indeed.
Maxie
No? Perhaps they are more of the camisole, teddy and garter belt crowd. Would you like to see what I'm wearing under this?
woo
I'm sure viewing your naked body would be very pleasurable to me but that's not exactly the response you desire is it?
Maxie
I don't get it. What about this morning.
woo
I was ill prepared. Over the years doctors have found no cure to my curious condition.
Maxie
Have you tried a shrink, Sydney? Perhaps this curious condition has something to do with the fact that you were brought up in the brothel your French mother operated.
Woo
Was that meant to be an insult?
Maxie
In your case… hardly.
woo
Afterall, flesh mongering is my trade… my family trade if you will. It is only the articles of its discreet concealment that I have a little problem with.
maxie
So, did your doctors put you on a strict chonie free diet?
Woo
You might say that. They narrowed the affected senses to sound, sight and touch. So to protect myself I wear earplugs, gloves and I have also learned how to read lips. What I cannot see, hear or touch cannot affect me.
Maxie
That's very clever, Sydney. But how did you know I wasn't wearing anything under this?
woo
Child's play! One....you are wearing a bathrobe made of silk...if you were wearing any undergarments ---I would surely be able to determine that. Ding Dong… third floor please! And two... ( Maxie tries to make a move to the bathroom but is quickly blocked by Sydney.) Please Miss Marlin, the only articles left of any possible harm to me are probably hanging in the bathroom to dry. A risk I had to take but a gamble based on my vast knowledge of a woman's habits, a dragon's personality and my nimble skill at the cha cha. You see Miss Marlin, to battle or out wit a dragon, you need another dragon...or a singing, dancing fool. As I said earlier its all in the timing.
Maxie
You thought of everything, didn't you. I'm betting you even arranged for the rest of my intimate apparel to be removed.
woo
That was number three. Yes, Frankie's visit to your room earlier was fruitful.
Maxie
But did he have to mess it up?
woo
Oh, Frankie was not to blame for that. Apparently some other party had been here before him. And....this other party may not be as concerned with your health as I am... so I suggest we leave before they should decide to return. Now Miss Marlin---lets go!
Maxie
Let me get changed.
Woo
There is no need to. In this weather what you're wearing can easily pass for a dress. Now, please stop dilly-dallying. Didn't your mother teach you that the early bird catches the worm?
Maxie
My mother? No, but my mother did teach me this...(Begins to do a dance step ala Astire/Rogers.)
Woo
What are you doing?
Maxie
You did want me to dance Sydney, didn’t you? (Has made her way to her purse.)
woo
Very nice...Now stop wasting time.
Maxie
Applause Sydney...I applauded when you danced!
Woo
Very well! (Applauds.) Bravo. Bravo.
Maxie
(Turning around to open her purse.) But there was something else my mother taught me.
Woo
Please turn around. I cannot see what you are saying.
Maxie
Well Sydney, I was saying that there was one other thing my mother taught me.
Woo
And what may that be?
maxie
To always carry one of these in my purse. (Pulling out a black lace number.)
Sydney
What? NOO! Please! NO!! NOT THAT!
Maxie
Looks like you're the bird, Sydney...and this is your worm. Catch! (Tosses it on to his face.)
Sydney
NO! AAUUGGG, (Wheezing,
Gasping and falling to the floor.)
Maxie
Two pieces of advice for you, Sydney. One... you have to work on a mask. And two.... never mess with a dancing dragon.
Knock Knock
Bellhop
(Enter.) Your bags Miss? Oh! Perhaps I'll return later...
Maxie
No, the bags are on the bed.
Bellhop
Very well, Miss.
maxie
Bye Sydney, I’m leaving....Sydney? (Walks over and lifts the black lace number off his face.) Sydney, hate to break up the party...but I have to run.
Sydney
No. You must not go! You are the one! I cannot let you go!
maxie
Sweet of you to say so, Sydney! But, you can keep this as a momento... here!
(Drops the black
lace number back on his face. Picks it up again.) And Sydney, I hope you
appreciate the fact that I am sacrificing one of my favorite pieces of
underwear to you.(Drops it again.)
Sydney
AAUGGG! NO! NO! YOU MUST NOT GO! YOU ARE THE ONE!
Maxie
I'm ready.
Bellhop
Yes...but what about him?
Maxie
He's a little emotional. What he needs right now is a little privacy.
Bellhop
Anything you say, Miss. Nice dress. (Exit.)
MAXIE VAMP
maxie
What began as a simple paid vacation was beginning to smell like a garbage strike in Summer. Whoever had Cedric wanted me...and I had no choice but to find out why. As I left the Raffles Hotel that night, all the roads were leading to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and I had to get there fast.
vamp ends suspended
(Slide: Changi Airport---Night View)
Airport Sounds
Announcer
What will Maxie find in Kuala Lumpur? Will she find Cedric? And if she does...
bump
...will it still be safe for her to be the bearer of the Crimson Cobra? And does the name Kuala Lumpur translate into Mud Junction in Malay? For these and questions of your own, stay tuned for the second half of The Blue Marlin right after this short break.
(On Screen left are the shadows of Sydney, Frankie and members of the Syndicate.)
Kingpin 1
And what is your excuse this time, Mr. Woo.
Kingpin 2
This is a totally unacceptable situation.
Sydney
I know.
Kingpin 1
How could she have escaped?
Kingpin 2
You were alone with her in a room.
Kingpin 1
You had a gun.
Kingpin 2
And she didn’t!
Sydney
She… she overcame me!
Kingpin 2
She overcame you? How?
Sydney
That is not important.
kingpin 1
But it is Mr. Woo. That bitch is planning to take everything we have worked so hard for.
Kingpin 2
Your failure puts all of us in a very difficult situation.
Kingpin 1
We use to have a name for people like you… what was it again…
Kingpin 2
Sissy Boy.
Kingpin 1
Sissy Boy! That’s right… Sissy Boy! Are you a Sissy Boy, Mr. Woo?
Kingpin 2
Your seat in the circle of 21 is presently being considered for someone else.
Kingpin 1
We can’t have a Sissy Boy sitting in the circle with us.
Sydney
Please, I beg you… give me one more chance!
Kingpin 2
Why should we?
Frankie
We know where she is!
Sydney
Shuttup Frankie!
Kingpin 1
Is what he says true?
(Another screen lights up with the Dragon Queen who looks like she is conjouring up some kind of spell. )
sydney
Yes. We do know where she is. She will not get away this time… I assure you! We’ll take the shuttle tinight and be back here with tomorrow evening. I promise.
Frankie
He promise.
Kingpin 1
Those are bold words from a Sissy… (Begins to choke, then drops dead.)
(2 assistants join the Dragon Queen who’s energy has obviously been sapped.)
assistant 1
You cannot go on!
Assistant 2
Its taking too much out of you!
Dragon Queen
I must! Those old bastards in the Syndicate have pushed me around for too long.
Assistant 1
Its too dangerous!
Dragon queen
If they won’t give me respect… I’ll take it! They obviously don’t know who they are dealing with!
Frankie
(rushing to the dead man.) He’s dead!
Kingpin 2
Its her! That bitch has done it again!
Assistant 2
If you wipe them all out… there will be no one to fear you.
Kingpin 1
This has to stop Mr. Woo! Do you understand? It has to stop! All our lives are at stake. That bitch is trying to wipe out the circle of 21! She must be stopped. Now go!
Assistant 1
Wait until tonight! You will have what you need tonight!
Dragon Queen
Yes. Tonight! Tonight it will be mine. Now, take me to my sweet. I must be with my sweet.
Plane sounds
into Maxie Vamp
(Enter Maxie.)
(SLIDE: Aerial view of Kuala Lumpur.)
Maxie
From the brochures on the plane, Kuala Lumpur looked like a city where the high-tech and an ancient past seemed to coexist side by side.
(SLIDE: Map of Peninsular Malaysia.)
While checking out its location on the map I also realized that Peninsular Malaysia was also probably the only country that was anatomically correct. Perhaps this explained why the sultry heat in this part of the world affected me the way it did.
(SLIDE: Subang.)
I got into Subang International at 12:45 AM and by the time I got to the hotel it was 2:30. All I wanted to do was to get my key, get to my room and crash.
(SLIDE: The Regent.)
out
Checkin Clerk
Your key, Miss Marlin....your bags have already been sent to your room. The elevators are to your left. We hope your stay at the Regent Hotel is a pleasant one.
Maxie
Thanks.
Inspector Petrus
Welcome to Kuala Lumpur, Miss Marlin. Before you go up to your room I wonder if you mind answering some questions. Inspector Petrus KLPD.
Maxie
Is there a problem here, Inspector?
Inspector Petrus
We were wondering that perhaps you could help determine if the potential of one was imminent.
Maxie
What's this about?
Inspector Petrus
Well, Miss Marlin, there has been an alarming convergence of known... undesirables in Singapore over the past week. They have come from all over Southeast Asia.... and we suspect some sort of underworld summit is taking place.
Maxie
This is all very intriguing Inspector Petrus but what does this have to do with a girl from Fresno, California like me?
Inspector Petrus
We know you are a private investigator...
Maxie
That is true.
Inspector Petrus
And you have been seen in the company of a certain Mr., Sydney Woo. So, I have to ask what the nature of your visit to Malaysia is?
Maxie
Since you've obviously checked up on me Inspector--- you know there is no love lost between Sydney Woo and me.
Inspector Petrus
Yes, I understand you worked undercover on a sting operation that lead to Mr. Woo's eventual deportation to Macao did you not?
Maxie
Yes.
Inspector
Something to do with smuggling monkeys?
Maxie
That right. How did you know that?
Inspector Petrus
The reports were quite detailed and I myself worked on that very same case ---from this end of the world. Many of those monkeys were from our jungles you know.
Maxie
Small world. Tell me inspector---what's the big deal with monkey brains anyway?
Inspector Petrus
Well, there is a belief among certain segments of the male geriatric population that the ingestion of live monkey brains renews youthful vigor and potency.
Maxie
So Sydney was capitalizing on a bunch of old geezers reminiscing about the glory days but who didn’t have what it takes to get it up.
Inspector petrus
That’s one way of putting it.
Maxie
There must be quite a substantial market for that sort of thing.
Inspector Petrus
Yes. Its strange how we spend the second half of our lives obsessed with trying to regain the first half. Now as I recall some unusual strategies were involved in Mr. Woo's apprehension--- developed by a Captain John Marlin.
Maxie
My father.
Inspector Petrus
I thought so.
Maxie
Yes, he was known for unusual surprises in all his operations.
Inspector Petrus
Didn't that case only employ female officers?
Maxie
The Lingerie Squad. I was part of that. Old Sydney didn't have a prayer in that one. Too bad we couldn't get him on charges of white slavery.
Inspector Petrus
Sometimes we take what we can get in this line of work Miss Marlin. As a fellow law officer I was wondering what your father based his unusual strategies on.
Maxie
Dancing. He said that it was all in the timing.
Inspector Petrus
The right move at the right time?
Maxie
Actually, the wrong move at the right time. The right move is always anticipated but the wrong move…
Inspector Petrus
Would produce the element of surprise. Interesting. I'll remember that. Now Miss Marlin, back to this meeting with Mr. Woo..
Maxie
Inspector, let me assure you that me running into Sydney was an unfortunate
coincidence. And as for my visit, ...I'm just a tourist here...as I was in Singapore.
Inspector Petrus
There are no accusations being made, Miss Marlin. After all, we were comrades in arms, so to speak. Its just...any information at this point would be helpful.
Maxie
Yes...I'm sorry but I don’t have any information for you.
Inspector Petrus
You must be tired. I'll try not to keep you too long. I was just curious if Mr. Woo had at anytime mentioned the Dragon Queen. She's a high ranking member of this particular underworld syndicate and she has been noticeably absent from this summit.
Maxie
No he didn't mention any such person.
Inspector Petrus
I will not keep you any longer. Thank you for your cooperation. If there should be anything...this is my number. I hope your stay in Kuala Lumpur will be an interesting one.
Maxie
I'm sure it will be.
Inspector Petrus
Good night. And let me compliment you on that unusual but very attractive dress you're wearing. Exquisite design.
Maxie
Yes, I've been told. Goodnight!
(As soon as Maxie exits Inspector Petrus pulls out
a cell phone.)
Inspector Petrus
Just calling to inform you that contact has been established. No. She does not suspect a thing. Yes, I have made arrangements for her to be watched. There will be nothing she does we won’t know about. Yes, I understand. I will personally pick you up at the airport. I will see you then.
memory note
(Shadows appear on the screens during the following....)
(Veena)
...the Crimson Cobra comes from a very powerful temple...in the wrong hands there's no telling what could be unleashed...unleashed...
(Frankie)
...Yes, Miss Marrin this week we have businessmen from arr ove Southeast Asia here..here...
(Inspector Petrus)
...there has been a convergence of undesirables. We suspect some sort of underworld summit....underworld summit...
(Dragon Queen)
...or you'll be seeing your friend again a piece at a time through the mail...through the mail....
(The center screen lights up and the following plays out in shadow. A sensual tangle of hands, hips and legs in a slow steady sway. A man and woman making passionate love. Two perfect bodies in a tango of unbridled passion. She throws her head back. Over the back of her head we see the object of her horror --- a COBRA, mouth wide, fangs exposed, hissing in a striking position. The pounding accelerates. Her full mouth opens to a silent scream.)
out
knock, knock, knock
( Maxie shoots up in bed. Looks at her watch.)
Maxie
Damn! Not even in my dreams. This better be Veena’s contact. (Maxie goes over to the door.)Yes?
Jamal Music
Jamal
(Enter with strange twitchy eyes.) Miss Marlin?
Maxie
You are my contact?
Jamal
You could say that.
Maxie
You are the one Miss Kapoor told me about?
Jamal
You could say that too.
Maxie
And you are the one who will furnish me with the details I need?
Jamal
You could say all those things you have just said... but I will deny them.
Maxie
Deny them...Why?
Jamal
Because none of the things you have said are true.
Maxie
I’m not sure I’m following this...
Jamal
I will only acknowledge the truth. So far, everything you have said about me are untruths...and until the truth is spoken, I will deny it. I do not acknowledge lies. Now Miss Marlin, why don't you try telling the truth for once?
maxie
So you are not my contact.
Jamal
True.
Maxie
And you are not the one Miss Kapoor told me about.
Jamal
True.
Maxie
And you do not have the details I need.
Jamal
True. Bravo, Miss Marlin. See, how easy it is to tell the truth when you try?
Maxie
I'm sorry I just assumed....
Jamal
Assumptions are dangerous things to make in this part of the world. When one assumes...one takes the chance that what one is assuming is correct. Can we really afford to take that chance? Its a gamble with truth we take when assumptions are made. And as you demonstrated, the truth is not something we should gamble with because half of our assumptions could be lies....
Maxie
(Grabbing him by the neck.) O.K. bub! I've had just about enough of this weirdness as I'm going to take.
Jamal
Please! Let me go!
Maxie
Not until I hear some answers---and I'm warning you, I better like them. Now you can begin by telling me where Cedric is.
Jamal
Cedric? Who is Cedric?
Maxie
You're not here because of Cedric?
Jamal
I know of no Cedric. And even if I did... it would still be inadvisable to cause me harm .
Maxie
Inadvisable huh? What are you? A lawyer?
Jamal
A lawyer?
Maxie
You sure talk like one.
Jamal
Please Miss Marlin...insults will get you nowhere.
Maxie
And you don't know about Cedric.
Jamal
I know of no such person.
Maxie
Then again you could be working for Sydney.
Jamal
Sydney?
Maxie
Yes, Sydney.
Jamal
Sydney Who?
Maxie
Sydney Woo.
Jamal
Who?
Maxie
Woo.
Jamal
Woo?
Maxie
Yes, Woo.
Jamal
Woo?
Maxie
Do you?
Jamal
With who?
Maxie
Yes, you. With Woo.
Jamal
With Woo? No.
Maxie
You're sure?
Jamal
Never heard of the man. Will you let me go now?
Maxie
Not until you answer one more.
Jamal
Ask! Ask me anything!
Maxie
What's with this eye thing that's happening here?
Jamal
What eye thing?
Maxie
This blinking with one eye thing.
Jamal
Oh this?
Maxie
Yes. Its very irritating and now you've got me doing it too.
Jamal
I caught some dust on the way in. Would you mind blowing it out for me?
(Maxie blows and lets him go.)
Thank you. But was all that necessary?
Maxie
A girl can't be too careful...and its been a long day. Now tell me who the hell you are? And you can begin with your name.
Jamal
I am Jamal
Maxie
Jamal. Why didn't you say so in the first place?
Jamal
You didn't ask.
Maxie
I did.
Jamal
What you asked I assumed to be rhetorical and simply responded accordingly.
Maxie
So maybe its you who should be careful about assumptions.
Jamal
Yes, I’m beginning to think so myself.
Maxie
O.K....why are you here?
Jamal
Now that is a good question...
Jamal music
...one that has been asked through the centuries by prophets and philosophers all over the....
out
Maxie
No! You ! Here! Now! Why?
Jamal
I work here.
Maxie
As what?
Jamal
A bellhop.
Maxie
A bellhop?
Jamal
I resent that tone. It’s an honest profession!
Maxie
Of course it is. Just tell me exactly why you are here.
Jamal
There is a visitor to see you. Are you expecting a visitor?
Maxie
Yes I am. Where is this visitor?
Jamal
If you were not expecting a visitor I would have thrown him out. Security is part of my job, you know. My honorable and honest profession.
Maxie
Jamal, where is this visitor?
Jamal
I shall escort him in. (Exit.)
Maxie
Good.
(Enter Jamal with Malik.)
Jamal
This is Mr. Malik...your visitor
Maxie
Mr. Malik, you must be my contact. I can't tell you how glad I am to see you…
(The old man shakes her hand Malay style.)
Jamal
That is the traditional Malay greeting---with both hands.
Maxie
I see... of course. Jamal?
Jamal
Yes, Miss Marlin?
maxie
You may go now.
Jamal
I’m staying.
Maxie
Here's $10 for your trouble…
Jamal
Ringgit.
Maxie
Excuse me?
Jamal
Ringgit. Our currency is called ringgit.
maxie
Ringgit… very good. Thank you for the lesson in international currency. Here’s 10 of those.
Jamal
Ringgit.
Maxie
Yes, here’s 10 ringgit. Look, I apologize for what happened earlier but...
Jamal
I’m staying.
Maxie
For heaven's sake, Jamal! It’s 5 in the morning…
Jamal
I have to stay Miss Marlin.
Maxie
Jamal, I'm going to ask you one last time...nicely...
Jamal
Miss Marlin, your visitor, Mr. Malik, also happens to be my grandfather.
Maxie
Your grandfather?
Jamal
Yes...he raised me and I'm the only one who understands him.
Malik
(Whispers) Oh, jambu gadis ini!
Jamal
Apa Datuk?
Malik
Jambu Gadis ini.
Jamal
He says you are a very attractive woman.
Maxie
Thank you Mr. Malik.
Jamal
I wouldn’t thank him if I were you.
Maxie
Why not? I’m sorry… is this some cultural thing? Please forgive me if I have insulted you.
Jamal
You have not insulted him. It’s not cultural.
Maxie
So why shouldn’t I thank him for the compliment?
Jamal
He meant the compliment in a very sexual way. Just because he’s old, doesn’t mean he’s dead.
Maxie
I see. Jamal, your grandfather doesn’t like eat live monkey brains, does he?
Jamal
Of course not. That is barbaric! How could you even suggest that?
Maxie
Good. Well then… thank him for the compliment.
Jamal
But…
Maxie
Thank him… please. I think its sweet he finds me attractive… in that way. (Jamal whispers into the old man’s ear who nods and smiles.) Jamal, you would have actually thrown this sweet old man out? Your own grandfather?
Jamal
We cannot afford having riff-raff loitering in the hotel at this time of the night. I take my job very seriously.
Maxie
Perhaps just little too seriously Jamal...
Jamal
Just speak to him directly and I will supply a translation.
Maxie
O.K.....Now Mr. Malik...about the Crimson Cobra...
Jamal
My grandfather wants you to come closer.
Maxie
Yes, of course. Anyway what I needed to know is...
(The old man reaches out for her pendant and looks at it. This section has the old man whispering to Jamal who provides a running translation.)
Jamal
He wants to know where you got this.
Maxie
What does this have to do with...
Jamal
Where did you get the pendant?
Maxie
My mother gave it to me.
Jamal
When did she give it to you?
Maxie
Why? What does this have to do with…
Jamal
My grandfather wants to know when she gave it to you?
Maxie
Three years ago… before she...before she passed away...( The old man places his palm on Maxie's forehead.) That's exactly what she did... before she gave this to me. But how did he...
Jamal
And your father? He is still living?
Maxie
Yes, he is.
Jamal
His tears still flow for her.
Maxie
(Maxie chokes.) I'm sorry...I'm tired and...
Jamal
And now yours flow for the first time since she passed on. For him or for her?
Maxie
Who's asking? You or your grandfather. (Malik dries her tears.)
Jamal
He says this was not your destiny. You were not born with it but you have inherited it. You are your mother's child and so it now belongs to you.
Maxie
I don't understand.
Jamal
What you have inherited is both a gift and a responsibility.
Maxie
What is?
Jamal
My grandfather wants to know if you...accept.
Maxie
My mother’s destiny?
Malik
Ya.
Maxie
Yes. Yes, I will.
(The old man places his hand on her cheek and smiles.)
Jamal
Then this destiny is now one with the destiny you were born with.
Maxie
Jamal, ask your grandfather where I can find....
Jamal
The Cobra is in the jungle… guarded by a hermit. Few understand its true value but many desire it.
Maxie
What is its true value?
Jamal
Power.
Maxie
Good or evil?
jamal
Power can only be the slave to one who possesses it. Power in itself has no morality of its own. As soon as you receive the Cobra you are to leave the country.
Maxie
But my plane tickets are for next week.
Jamal
A flight has already been booked for you. Miss Kapoor has informed us that she herself will be arriving this evening.
Maxie
Veena?
Jamal
Yes. She will escort you back...and provide some answers to the questions you have.
Maxie
How do I find this Hermit, Mr. Malik?
Jamal
One moment please...Ya....ya....ya datuk. My grandfather has given me
instructions. I will be your guide into the jungle tomorrow.
Maxie
(DOWN) Great, I was going to be lead into the jungle by a psycho bellhop from hell. I can't begin to tell you how much the thought of this thrilled me...so I won't. (UP) What time do we leave, Jamal?
Jamal
I will pick you up at noon in front of the Hotel. We will leave you to get some rest now. (The old man says something.) Ya Datuk? My grandfather says you are very special.
Maxie
Tell your grandfather I think he is special too.
Jamal
He says not many children would accept what you have accepted. Whatever happens, he says, to always remember that your mother's love will be your protection and your father's love will be your strength.
Malik
Jaga yah?
Jamal
My grandfather says...
Maxie
Yes, tell him I will. (Maxie shakes Malik's hand---Malay style. Exit Malik and Jamal.) (DOWN) Somehow I didn't need a translation. The old man with bright dancing eyes was telling me to be careful...and I knew there was a good reason for it. (Picks up phone.) Operator? Yes...can you tell me what time it is in California? Noon? Good. I'd like to place a person to person call to Mr. John Marlin. Area code 2-0-9 5-5-5 0-6-7-4. Yes, I'll wait. (Puts down phone.) Now, what am I going to do about Cedric? Inspector Petrus. (Looks at Petrus's card. About to pick up phone when...)
PHONE
MAXIE
Hello Dad?
Dragon queen
I'm sorry to disappoint you Miss Marlin.
Maxie
Oh, its you.
Dragon queen
Yes, its only me. Now, Miss Marlin you were warned about the police.
Maxie
Look, they contacted me...besides I didn't tell them anything,
Dragon Queen
Very well. Then, you haven't forgotten about our meeting tonight, have you?
Maxie
No, I haven't.
Dragon queen
Good. We'll be meeting at the Coliseum Cafe at 9.
Maxie
Where is Cedric? I want to speak to him.
Dragon Queen
(Off) Turn that damn music off! You know how I hate it!
Maxie
Hello?
Dragon queen
There is a little something you will be fetching from the jungle later today, is there not?
Maxie
How do you know all these things? And where's Cedric?
Dragon queen
I have eyes and ears all over this city. Let me make it clear, Miss Marlin...The Crimson Cobra belongs to me. Bring it and you will see your friend again. Only until then, Miss Marlin... only until then. And I would advise you to come alone.
click
(Maxie looks at Petrus's card.)
Maxie
I couldn't risk Cedric's life. Destiny or not I just couldn't risk it.
Phone
Yes? You couldn't get through...No. That's O.K. Thanks. I'll try again later. (Exit.)
(During the following "radio broadcast" we see in shadow silhouette-Jamal waiting for Maxie---looking at his watch etc... Maxie with pith helmet arrives. They go. After a second or two Frankie and Sydney follow but are stopped by figures bearing guns.)
Malaysian Radio Jock
Its 12:15 and you're listening to the Luncheon Music hour on Radio TV Malaysia's Blue Network. Today is December the twenty-third. We would like to remind our Christian friends out there that its two days before Christmas. Only two days to shop for those goodies and prepare the home for the open house. I am sure that your Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu friends would like to assure you that we will all be there to help you celebrate in the spirit of Muhibah. This is J. Kamaruddin for the Luncheon Music Hour...and now back to some music for your lunching pleasure....
(SLIDE: Jungle)
(Enter Maxie & Jamal)
Maxie
(DOWN) An hour outside the city Jamal and I began our trek through the jungle.
jungle MUSIC & sounds
There was something seductive about the lush steamy jungle. It had a primal hum...a vibration that connected to the very core of your being. A connection that made you aware exactly how you fit into the scheme of things. It was a place where life and death seemed to nourish each other.
MUSIC out
(UP) How far more Jamal? Will we get there soon?
Jamal
Miss Marlin, in the jungle, distance or time is of no matter. In the jungle, only the jungle matters?
Maxie
What's that supposed to mean?
Jamal
There are things Miss Marlin...things that need no understanding, only acceptance.
Maxie
I sure hope your sense of direction is a little more linear than your thought patterns.
(SLIDE: Cave.)
Jamal
Over there...in that cave. (Exit Jamal and Maxie.)
(SLIDE: Inside Cave.)
( The French doors are now opened. Enter Jamal and Maxie from the platform.)
Jamal
We will rest here.
Maxie
Good. Its much cooler here. So now what do we do?
Jamal
We wait.
Maxie
Where is this hermit of yours?
Jamal
Miss Marlin, this Hermit is not mine. This Hermit is not a possession. This Hermit belongs to no one.
Maxie
Look, lets just keep the philosophical bull doo doo to a minimum. I just want to get this over with.
Jamal
That's the trouble with you Americans---you always want things instantly.
Maxie
Hey, watch it bub! I didn't hear you saying that outside the hotel just now.
Jamal
All I am saying is,... there are certain things we have to wait for. If we do not allow them to bloom we may never begin to appreciate them at its fullest.
Maxie
Like what for instance, Jamal?
Jamal
Life, Love...this hermit.
Maxie
Something else that needs no understanding I suppose.
Jamal
Acceptance is a wonderful thing Miss Marlin. It has the power to free a person
from doubt and confusion...something most people wait entire lifetimes for...
Mystical hum
But you will have to wait no longer. There she is now.
Maxie
A girl? But where is the Hermit?
Jamal
She is the Hermit!
Maxie
She can't be more than 10 years old. Where are her parents?
Jamal
The Girl, as you call her is older than you think.
Maxie
O.K. she's 11...12 maybe.
Jamal
Miss Marlin...do you feel that?
Maxie
Is it coming from her?
Jamal
It is.
(Enter Girl with a canvas bag. Jamal backs up.)
surge
Jamal...Jamal? What are you doing back there?
Jamal
I have accepted that whatever is about to transpire is between you and the hermit Miss Marlin...I am only your guide.
Maxie
Fine. Then ask her what she...
Jamal
She will tell you directly herself, Miss Marlin.
Maxie
Why is she looking at me like that?
(The girl reaches out for Maxie's pendant. We hear a surge and Maxie falls to her knees.)
GIRL (E,e)
Do not be afraid sister.
Maxie
Did you hear that Jamal?
Jamal
Hear what Miss Marlin?
Girl (E,E)
Sister.
Maxie
That!
Jamal
I see her lips moving but I hear nothing.
Girl (E,E)
Do not be afraid. You will not be harmed. You are the one.
The one who has been sent to take my precious away....but I give it willingly.
My time is near and my precious must be safe. (The girl motions to Jamal who
closes his eyes.)
Jamal
Now I see nothing either.
Girl
(She now opens the
bag to reveal the cobra.) This is my precious. Take my precious. Go with
the wind over the oceans. Go with my blessing and protect my precious. Never
let it leave you. Not until the next guardian arrives. Never leave my precious.
But sister beware. Beware of one who takes the name of the Dragon. If my
precious becomes hers...all will be lost. Now go and make haste. (The girl kisses the cobra on the head and
hands the bag to Maxie. She places her palm on Maxie's forehead.) Protect
my precious as you would protect a child. (Maxie
hugs the cobra. Motions to Jamal.)
Jamal
I can see again. What happened?
Girl
(Maxie wipes a tear
from the girl.) Do not grieve for
me, sister. These tears are not of tears of sadness... my time is near and I go
willingly. (The girl takes the pendant
again. Looks at it. Looks at Maxie.) This was a gift. You are the bearer.
Strength will come from courage and courage comes from facing fear. Protect my precious... and it will protect
you. (The girl turns to go. Stops. Turns
around.) Sister, do not deny your love to the one who loves you. When he is
of this world no more… regret will be a heavy burden to bear. (Smiles. Exit Girl.)
Jamal
Look! Her hair...its turning gray.
surge hum & out
Miss Marlin?
Maxie
Yes, Jamal?
Jamal
It is true what my grandfather said. You are a special woman.
(The slide of inside the cave begins to fade. The screen doors are closed. Maxie gives her pith helmet to Jamal. She is helped on with her electric blue trench coat during the following.)
Maxie
(DOWN) Now that I had the Crimson Cobra ... everything began to make sense. Whoever had Cedric wanted it for themselves. Its power was too seductive not to have. I was playing a game of mental Chess. What was going to be my next move. I couldn't sacrifice the Cobra but I also could not let Cedric die.
(SLIDE: Coliseum Cafe Ext.)
Jamal
Here we are Miss Marlin.
Maxie
So, this is the famous Coliseum Cafe. They say Maugham and Kipling were regulars here.
Jamal
I've heard they were regulars anywhere there was gin and whisky available. Now you've seen it lets go...
Maxie
No.
Jamal
Miss Marlin please!
Maxie
I'm staying.
Jamal
We do not have time...
Maxie
True.
Jamal
Your flight leaves in 3 hours....
Maxie
True.
Jamal
It's a long way to the airport...
Maxie
Jamal, in the jungle distance or time is of no matter. In the jungle only the jungle matters.
Jamal
Miss Marlin, please! This is not the time for silly metaphors.
Maxie
Its something I have to do Jamal. You do understand that?
Jamal
Yes. Very well, Miss Marlin.
Maxie
What time is it now?
Jamal
9. Miss Marlin...you will be careful?
Maxie
I will. Now go. (Jamal about to exit.) Jamal?
Jamal
Yes?
Maxie
Please apologize to your grandfather for me. This is something I have to do. (exit.)
(Enter Petrus & John)
Petrus
Perfect. I will send my men in…
John
No. We will wait outside.
Petrus
You are retired John and this is a matter for the local police.
John
She has to do this alone!
Petrus
The Dragon Queen has been on out wanted list for a long time. Can you guarantee she will not slip through our grasp? My God man your daughter… your only child is in there!
John
Don’t you think I know that? She is well trained.
Petrus
Can you guarantee she will come out of this alive?
John
She has to do this alone! There can be no interference. I didn’t fly half way around the world for you to botch this up.
Petrus
If we lose the Dragon Queen…
John
You won’t.
(SLIDE: Dissolve into int. of Coliseum Cafe.)
EVIL CORD
Maxie
(DOWN) The Coliseum Café. I had heard the best steaks in town were served here. But the only steaks concerning me at the moment was balancing the premium between Cedric's life and The Crimson Cobra.
(The French doors are opened revealing.....)
evil cord hard
Dragon Queen
Miss Marlin.
Maxie
(DOWN) The voice that came from the far end of the room was the same one on the phone. The one that always filled me with the need to pop an entire box of Rolaids.
Dragon queen
Finally we get to meet. This has been a long time coming.
Maxie
Where is Cedric? Is he O.K.?
Dragon queen
I am touched by your concern, Miss Marlin. But you needn't worry about your friend...does she boys?
(Note: "Boys" are off stage voices.)
Boys
GRUNT!
Dragon Queen
He is quite well, isn't he boys?
Boys
GRUNT!
Dragon queen
See? My boys never lie to me Miss Marlin...do you boys?
Boys
GRUNT, GRUNT!
dragon queen
Now, place the bag with the Crimson Cobra on the table.
Maxie
Why should I?
Dragon queen
Please, do as I tell you.
Maxie
I'm doing nothing until I get some straight answers around here.
dragon queen
Boys, perhaps Miss Marlin would like to see the little puppet show we have assembled.
boys
GRUNT!
Maxie
I want to know where Cedric is.
Dragon Queen
But Miss Marlin, you'll disappoint the boys. They took such pains to put this together.
Maxie
I have no time for games.
Dragon Queen
Neither have I. This is simply a gesture of goodwill. Bring them out!
(Sydney and Frankie with their hands tied and connected to a rope are shoved out.)
Frankie
Ret me go!
Sydney
Miss Marlin! Please don't!
dragon queen
Do you like my puppets? I think you are aquatinted with these two in particular.
Sydney
Miss Marlin, don't give it to her!
dragon queen
Shuttup Sydney!
Maxie
They work for you?
Dragon Queen
For me? (Laughs.) Hardly. We found Mr. Woo and Mr. Kwai waiting at your Hotel this morning. We were certain their intentions were not honorable so we took it upon ourselves to remove any further threat to you. As I stated before...a gesture of goodwill.
Maxie
I suppose I should thank you.
dragon queen
The envelop on the table is another gesture on my part. It contains $100,000... American. When you place the bag with the Crimson Cobra on the table that envelop is yours.
Maxie
What do you want with it?
Sydney
No! Miss Marlin, No! She will have the power and...
Dragon queen
Gag him! Gag them both!
(Sydney and Frankie are pulled back in.)
Sydney
She must not have the power! The Crimson Cobra...(MUFFLED)
Dragon Queen
No, on second thoughts. Gag only Sydney. Let Frankie go.
Boys
Grunt?
Dragon Queen
I said let him go!
Boys
Grunt.
(Sydney is sent out with a gag in his mouth.)
Dragon Queen
Much better. Much much better. (Frankie is sent out.) Ah, Frankie...come here. (Frankie goes over meekly. She whispers something into Frankie's ear. Frankie reacts in a terrified manner to what is being said.) Now, is that clear, Frankie? Those are my terms and I want an answer by tomorrow. Tell those old bastards in Singapore that if they screw with me...
Frankie
(Looks over to Maxie, then to the Dragon Queen.) If they sclew with you, they die?
Dragon Queen
If they screw with me, I will cut their balls off.
Frankie
What about Boss?
(Sydney lets out a
little squeal and crosses his legs.)
Dragon Queen
He will be kept intact. I will need him to witness what I have told only you. Boys?
Boys
Grunt!
Dragon Queen
Drive Frankie to the station and make sure he's on the 10 o'clock train to Singapore.
Boys
Grunt!
Dragon Queen
Now go! (Exit Frankie.) My apologies for the interruption. I had other gestures of goodwill to relay. It is the season you know. Come now Miss Marlin,... please...on the table. The cobra is of no use to you---a hundred thousand dollars on the other hand...
Maxie
I'm still not getting the answers I want. Who are you and where is Cedric?
Cedric
(Enter.) She is the Dragon Queen!
Maxie
Cedric!
Cedric
And she is also my mother! I thought I'd hold down the fort while the boys were away.
EVIL STAB HARD
Dragon Queen
You seemed to have made quite an impression on this young lady, my sweet. Yes, quite an impression. Now Miss Marlin, are you satisfied?
Maxie
So, this...and us...it was all a setup?
Cedric
I'm afraid so. But I did really grow quite fond of you... and since you've turned up here I'm guessing you felt a little something for me as well. I do hope you will forgive me for breaking our date and leaving your room in such an untidy mess but I was looking for the Cobra. Business before pleasure you know. But perhaps, I can make it up to you sometime.
Maxie
Make it up to me?
Cedric
Yes, once this matter is settled....I was thinking a quiet dinner and perhaps later an old Fred Astaire movie on the VCR. There must be some routines you could teach me...like the ones you told me you and your father did together.
Maxie
You make me sick. I think I'll be leaving now.
Dragon Queen
Not before you leave the bag on the table. I am warning you!
Maxie
Warning me? Who do you think you are?
Cedric
(Pulling out a gun.) I'm sorry Maxie...That is my mother you're talking to. And what mother wants...mother gets. We did try to be nice about it all. But we will get the Cobra one way or the other.
Dragon Queen
There is no need for nastiness my sweet. Let me clear this up for you Miss Marlin... You see, I use to belong to a syndicate that represents all of Southeast Asia. An organization sometimes known as the circle of 21. The same syndicate that hired Mr. Woo and Mr. Kwai to stop you...and in so doing, to stop me. Lets just say the Syndicate and I had a parting of ways over territorial rights.
Maxie
What does this have to do with the cobra?
Dragon Queen
We are a superstitious crowd in this part of the world...and each of us over the years have acquired certain implements of protection. Isn't that true, Sydney?
(Sydney nods.)
Maxie
What do you mean protection?
Dragon Queen
Amulets, charms, magic...invincibility. And mine was this...
EVIL CORD
(The dragon Queen pulls out a bag that's similar to Maxie's.)
Maxie
The twin!
mystical stab
Dragon queen
Yes. The twin.
Maxie
I thought it was lost.
Dragon queen
I've had it all along. But, acquiring it cost me dearly. If you care to come closer I'll show you exactly just how dearly. (The Dragon Queen removes her veil only enough for Maxie to see.) This is why I am called the Dragon queen.
Maxie
(Reviled by the sight.) YOU!
Dragon Queen
As you can see every time I had to use it… I paid for it physically. With the marriage of both Cobras this little inconvenience will be eliminated.
Maxie
And what makes you think I will allow this marriage to consummate?
Dragon Queen
Frankly, I don’t think you have much of a choice.
Maxie
We’ll see about that!
Evil Cord Hard
(A commotion is heard.)
Dragon queen
My sweet, I think we have company!
(Cedric places himself in a strategic position.)
Veena
Maxie, don't let my sister get the Crimson Cobra!
Maxie
Jamal! Why did you bring them here?
Jamal
I had no choice in the matter.
Veena
She has to be stopped at all cost Maxie.
Cedric
Aunty Veena, its been a long time. Nice of you to pop in...
CLICK
Why don't you and your friends take a seat. I'm sure it was a long flight.
Veena
Cedric, put that gun away!
Cedric
I said sit!
Veena
Cedric, you've grown up mean like your mother!
Dragon queen
Look Veena, don't you like what I have?
Veena
So it is true. You do have the other Cobra!
Dragon queen
Finally, my destiny may resume.
Veena
This was never your destiny. You stole it!
Maxie
What’s going on here Veena?
Veena
I'm sorry Maxie. I couldn't tell you everything earlier. Many years ago, like you she was to be the bearer...only the bearer except ...
Dragon Queen
Except I couldn't remain chaste...until the next guardian came along.
Veena
Hussy!
Dragon Queen
Why? Because I got to him before you did? Yes, Miss Marlin I had relations with Cedric's father...a very charming, irrisitable englishman… who my sister had an eye on as well. I think my sweet has inherited a lot of his father's qualities, wouldn't you agree Miss Marlin?
Veena
Maxie, if the two Cobras intertwine all will be lost!
Dragon queen
That is your opinion sister! Your Cobra robbed me of my youth and beauty.
Veena
You were never that beautiful, anyway...
Dragon queen
But now, the tables are turned. With both Cobras I will be invincible! I will be immortal. Beauty, Youth and power will once again be mine! Mine forever!
mondo build & out
Jamal
Is that such a good idea? After all beauty is entirely up to the beholder... which is subjective at best... and as for power...
Dragon queen
SILENCE! Now, ...release your Cobra to me.
Veena
Please Maxie, don't do it!
Cedric
I know this is rather unsavory but if you do not do as mother says....I'm afraid this old man will have a frightful hole in his head.
Veena
Don't do it Maxie!
Dragon queen
What are you waiting for Miss Marlin? Come.
(Malik says something.)
Jamal
Miss Marlin, my grandfather says....
Cedric
You! Over there...away from the old man.
Jamal
I'm sorry Miss Marlin but he said...
Cedric
One more word and he gets it!
(Maxie about to go when...)
Malik (E, E)
Sister, you are the bearer of the Cobra.
maxie
Jamal, did you hear that?
Malik (E,E)
Sister!
Jamal
Miss Marlin, I can only hear the sound of my heart beating.
(Maxie looks over to Mr. Malik.)
malik (E, E)
You are the bearer of immortality and innocence. Only the bearer can preserve it and bestow it. You are the bearer. To preserve it you must release it. Until you release it, you can never reclaim it. Release it. Then reclaim it with your mother's protection and your father's strength.
Dragon Queen
What are you waiting for Miss Marlin? Release it to me now!
(Maxie gives up the cobra to the Dragon Queen.)
Dragon Queen
Shield yourself, my sweet. This will not take long. (Cedric and the rest save Maxie shield their faces as the Dragon Queen unveils both Cobras. She then kisses the heads of both Cobras.) Its happening! It is happening! (She unveils herself as a young and attractive woman.) How do I look Veena?
Veena
Like you did 20 years ago.
Dragon queen
That was only the beginning Sydney. Once the Cobras intertwine the entire transfer of power will be complete. You can then return to the syndicate and tell them what you saw. And inform them that any resistance will be futile. Is that understood?
Sydney
Yes.
Dragon queen
And for you my sweet. (She goes up to Cedric and kisses him full on the lips.) Our time will soon be at hand. (She returns to where the cobras are.) And now... power. Ultimate power.
Maxie
That’s wonderful. Congratulations! We must celebrate! (Removing the gag from Sydney's mouth.) What’s your favorite song Sydney?
Sydney
What?
Veena
What are you doing?
Maxie
Sing it, Sydney! This is a celebration!
Sydney
This is foolishness!
Maxie
Yes Sydney, we are fools and she's a dragon...
Sydney
"There may be troubles ahead..."
Maxie
Dance Veena...dance!
Veena
Maxie, have you lost your mind?
Dragon Queen
Stop it! What’s going on here? Cedric do something!
Maxie
Dance with me Jamal!
Cedric
Stop this, all of you!
Maxie
You did want to learn some Fred Astire routines. Here’s your chance! Well this hand goes here and... both your hands have to be free for this to work Cedric.
Dragon Queen
Cedric!
Maxie
(Grabbing Cedric's gun. ) Jamal catch! (Throwing the gun to Jamal.) If you want to do this right you really need to concentrate Cedric.
Dragon Queen
I SAID, STOP!
Cedric
( Sydney stops singing. Getting her hand behind her back.) Very clever Miss Marlin but...
Maxie
(Knees him in the crotch.) But what Cedric? Oh, did I break your bottle? So much for laying it on the lip of anyone’s cup for a while.
Dragon Queen
Nice try, Miss Marlin. But I still have these...and as soon as the Cobras intertwine....
Maxie
Ladies and gentlemen, the Cha Cha King of 1956!
Sydney
(Dancing and singing.) Oy Como Va....
Dragon Queen
Stop that!
Maxie
What’s gonna make me?
Dragon Queen
I have a photograph of a certain John Marlin… formally of the San Francisco police department.
Cedric
From what I’ve gathered… A huge fan of Fred Astire.
Dragon Queen
The same John Marlin who was instrumental in forcing his daughter to quit the same police department because of her romantic involvement with the son of a prominent Mob figure several years ago.
Sydney
I’m sorry Miss Marlin… they forced me to tell.
Dragon Queen
So you see Miss Marlin… you and I are not that different. We have both paid a hefty price for romance. Unfairly, I might add.
Maxie
So you have a picture of my father… how is that going to stop me?
dragon queen
What if this picture accidentally caught on fire, Sydney?
Sydney
Poof!
Maxie
So the photograph goes up in flames… so what?
Dragon queen
Along with your father. Scientists are still baffled by the phenomenon of spontaneous combustion… we’re not.
Maxie
Can she do that, Veena?
Veena
I’m afraid so, Maxie. She has the power.
Dragon queen
Miss Marlin, you have the opportunity to walk away with a lot of money… or arrange for the disposal of Daddy’s ashes.
Maxie
(Grabbing the cobras.) Sorry toots! No can do. The bearer is reclaiming the cobras.
Dragon Queen
No. Do not touch the cobras! It will rob you of your beauty! It will rob you of your youth! It robbed mine!
Maxie
(Looking down at her pendant, then at the Dragon Queen.) I'll take my chances Honey! You forget, I wear the pendant… I am the bearer. I am protected. I can give and I can reclaim. Your big mistake was messing with my family. Now… go to hell, bitch!
(Maxie and the Dragon Queen engage in a struggle.)
RUMBLE
Dragon queen
Its beginning! No! Let go Now! NO! NOOOOO!
Mystical Mayhem
( It ends leaving the two figures of Maxie and the Dragon Queen locked in an eerie stiff stillness. After a few moments Maxie moves---prying the Cobras from the Dragon Queen whose body slumps back into the chair, dead. Maxie puts the Cobras back in their bags.)
Cedric
Mother...
(Veena walks over to the limp body of the Dragon Queen. Maxie wipes a tear from Veena.)
Maxie
Are you O.K., Veena?
Veena
Despite everything... she was still family.
Sydney
Was my singing and dancing O.K. Miss Marlin?
Maxie
It was very nice Sydney.
Sydney
Now can I please be untied?
Maxie
No, I think Inspector Petrus and his men would like you just the way you are. You did make the call, didn’t you Jamal.
Jamal
I did what you told me Miss Marlin.
Sydney
But Miss Marlin we work so well together.
Maxie
Don't get your hopes up Sydney---this was only a one-night stand.
Jamal
Miss Marlin, how did you know what to do and when to do it?
Maxie
Timing Jamal. My father is a stickler for timing.
Inspector Petrus
(Enter.) The wrong move at the right time.
Maxie
Inspector Petrus!
Inspector Petrus
As you Americans say… the cavalry is here.
Sydney
The wrong move at the right time. That’s how you father did it! That’s how he won all his dancing trophies, isn't it?
Maxie
That’s right Sydney. That’s how he did it. Inspector, we could have used your help a little earlier.
Inspector petrus
On the looks of it, you handled the situation quite well. Besides we had our hands full wrangling Frankie and the boys into the Paddy Wagon outside.
Maxie
And how do we explain… her?
Inspector Petrus
I believe she had a history of heart problems, don’t you?
Maxie
You may be right!
Jamal
Miss Marlin, we should go. Your plane...
Maxie
Yes, Of Course. Get the other Cobra, Jamal !
inspector petrus
My kind regards to your father Miss Marlin… when you get the chance to see him.
Maxie
I am planning to make that a reality as soon as I can.
Inspector Petrus
Tell him… tell him there was no interference. He’ll understand.
Maxie
I will. Jamal, what are you waiting for?
Jamal
I cannot touch them Miss Marlin... you are the bearer.
Mystical hum
Veena
Yes, Maxie...only the bearer can chose a guardian.
Maxie
Has a one been found?
Veena
One has for the first Cobra.... But there is still one Cobra with no guardian.
Jamal
And until a guardian has been found...
Maxie
A guardian has been found, Jamal.
tinkle
Mr. Malik, the bearer has chosen a guardian. Do you accept?
Malik
Yah. Terima Kasih.
Jamal
That means “thank you” in Malay… but it translates directly as…
Maxie
Received with love.
(Maxie places one of the canvas bag with the Crimson Cobra on the old man's lap. She then places her palm on his forehead.)
Maxie
Preserve it well my friend. (Maxie comes down stage to the audience. The screens are closed and the actors leave the stage. The old radio is brought back on stage.) When the old man kissed the head of the Cobra he began his transformation into a little boy with dancing eyes. I knew I would miss him. Two days later on Christmas eve, a ninety-year-old Cherokee woman kissed the Cobra's head and a little girl disappeared into the Sierras. Perhaps Jamal was right...perhaps there are some things in this world that need no understanding ...only acceptance. And for the moment, I had to accept that a girl from Fresno, California named Maxie Marlin was the bearer of the Crimson Cobra. And for now, that was good enough for me. (exit Maxie.)
(Lights out for 5
seconds save a spot on the old radio. When the lights come back to half we are
back in the “radio studio”. There is soft Christmas music in the background.
The actors are milling about congratulating each other and exchanging season
greetings in hushed tones---slowly dissipating from stage. Soon only “Maxie” is
left alone. From the radio we hear...)
Phone being dialed
thunder & rain (in the background)
Voice of Maxie
( As the next
section plays on the radio the “Girl” slowly walks on stage. Maxie sees her and
gently smiles.) Dad? Yeah, I got back today. The case? It was O.K. Dad, you
mind if I drive over tonight? I know its Christmas eve. No, I have no other
plans. Yeah, I'm sure. I’m leaving in about 10 minutes. I'll see you in a
while. Yes I know its wet outside… Yes, I'll be careful. See you soon. Dad? I
love you. ( They hug and exit.)
(This cross fades into a Fred Astaire song “The Way You Look Tonight”. Lights out.)
Curtain