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World and Universal Academy Fondation
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Contest 2008 of the 7th Art
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SCENARIO 2008
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Author: Ngwana christian fozo |
Country : Cameroon / E-mail: fozo_chris@yahoo.ca |
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Title: Quest For The West
Synopsis
A story about six young men from the Sub Sahara Africa pushed by misery and wars are determined to gain the west through whatever means even by through ‘’clandestine immigration, Their ‘’QUEST FOR THE WEST”, makes them carry out a memorable trek across the desert
Their hazardous journey across the desert, turns out to be no fun……..At the end only one of the adventurers live to tell the story of the “QUEST FOR THE WEST……..
A story of greed……
Hypocrisy…….
Conspiracy……
Characters
Tchombe
An ex-rebel from the democratic republic of Congo.
Malik
A Malian trader, brave and determined.
Mike and Jeremy
Two young and energetic jobless Nigerians.
Mura
A survivor of the Rwandan genocide trying to discover a new life in the west.
Kotto
Ambitious jobless man trying to break through misery and decides riding across the desert.
Sultan
Selfish and proud sultan of a tchadian village tricked by a European abandons his village to learn the so called “western politics”
Alasane
Young boy dreaming to play in a professional football league, gives all he can afford to attain his objectives.
Boni
An old desert robber ,ex rebel and tchombe’s potential enemy.
The desert.
Solange
Mura’s girlfriend.
Amir
Desert pirate.
The scene opens
Two young men watching a television programme ,examining their present social conditions and their future. They’re in their late twenties
Mike
God segregates, can’t u see ?
Jeremy
U got me kidding, mike what’s your problem?, Is God the victim of your troubles now?
Mike
He discriminates, how can he create some people and keep them in Africa suffering and others in the west enjoying, that’s not fair, look on the western channels, high living standards and the like we’re suffering man.
Jeremy
U got me kidding mike, people do suffer everywhere, plus, what the portray on the screens isn’t the reality of what’s happening over there, clean your eyes mike, wake up from your dreams.
Mike
I’ve made up my mind j, I must leave this country, Jeremy I can’t die in misery.
Jeremy
It’s the system boy, bad governance, the whole system is corrupt, what can we do, and having a valid visa is an illusion
Mike
Whatever means ,I gotta go
Jeremy
How would you do it then?.
Mike
I know of a guy, a friend in Madrid, Spain, he moved through the desert to Europe.
Jeremy
What!, are u insane mike!? ,the desert!?
Mike
Yeah ,I mean it, the desert from there he walked himself to Europe
Jeremy
Now I can see something is wrong with you ,ur madness has come to light I’ve been suspecting.
Mike
Hard way the only way boy, get rich or die trying
Jeremy
So dreamer how would you start with your adventure, risky adventure I must say.
Mike
Life’s all about risk baby boy .i’ll tell you later only if your interested right?.
Jeremy
I’m waiting
CUT TO
Scene two.
(somewhere in Mali…)
Neussman
as I was telling you ,you can do much better learning modern governance.
Sultan
I’m very interested learning it because I have ambitions being a politician and standing as a a presidential candidate in the next elections.
Neusseman
But that ain’t possible doing that would be a pre-requisite to your success.
Sultan
What must I do then?
Neusseman
Learning our civilisation, our politics, that’s all and power would be yours forever.
Chief
But that ain’t possible ,how would I do that?
Neusseman
Only across the seas to the west.
Sultan
Across the seas!?.
Neusseman
Yes the west, cradle of modern civilisation.
Sultan
But that ain’t possible ,have a family and village to control ,the chief priest would be another hindrance.
Neusseman
Here you go again ,you’re the leader right? ,so take the decisions.
Sultan
I’m but…..i’ m afraid this can’t happen.
Neusseman
So you want to rot in primitivity and ignorance? ,then I got nothing for you.
CUT TO
Scene three
(ivory coast ,Abidjan)
alasane(talking with a friend)
I got a dream.
Bern
Are u Martin Luther King?, stop dreaming you’re a damn footballer.
Alasane
I have dreams playing pro in Europe
Bern
Hear him talk, you’ve started again ?,let’s look for something to eat ,I’m not out for and kidding I’m damn hungry.
Alasane
I must make my way from this country, in guns and hunger there can be no peace and happiness.
Bern
So what are u plans?
Alasane
I must leave ,leave from here for greener pastures
Bern
You haven’t said anything lasane ,don’t use them parables
Alasane
I’m travelling to Europe next week, bern I’ve made up my mind
Bern
You would have told me, got a visa? ,congrat’s man.
Alasane
Not that way ,bern not that way.
Bern
So what are u talking about? ,which way then?
Alasane
I’m moving through the desert and then by canoe then I’ll be breathing the oxygen of Madrid.
Bern
Your not serious that’s stupid, foolish and risky ,lasane that’s crazy your heading in danger forv the unknown think again, open your eyes.
Alasane
I’m opening ‘em eyes and I can see clearly ,I’ve made up my mind boy I’m gone.
Bern
Do you watch t.v? ,do you see ‘em movie and docs, people die everyday in the desert robbed by desert pirates ,bitten by vipers, starved to death ,and other terrible things just imagine them.
Alasane
That’s the mans world ,u must eat by your sweat even the bible say’s so.
Bern
But the bible……..
Alasane
Man, even God can’t stop me ,I’m destined , son of destiny that’s me.
Bern
Destined to die right?.
Alasane
To be a footballer and rich
Bern
Ur ignorant and stupid gearing towards the leopards dungeon with closed eyes.
Alasane
It’s all over your with me or not
Bern
I’m not that crazy, I just wish you change your mind, and I hope you will.
Scene four(Rwanda)
Mura
Honey ,I’ve been thinking about this plan
Solange
About what?
Mura
Travelling, getting away from this endless misery, there’s nothing to hold me here, everyone is gone killed by the genocide ,I’m alone.
Solange
You can’t say that, I’m here with you and I love you
Mura
There are not jobs ,I’ve been jobless for years now and the war nostalgia keep’s troubling my spirit.
Solange
But I love you and you know that.
Mura
Can we eat love?, can we?
Solange
So what are you going to do, to save the situation.
Mura.
As I told you ,I’ll be travelling to the west ,we’ll be fine baby, rich!, that’s what I’m dreaming of. when I’ll get there ,I’ll call you, then we’ll have kids living a comfortable life
Solange
So how are u going about your project?
Mura
I’ll be travelling with some friends from here to the desert and then…..
Solange
Stop!, stop! That’s damn suicide, suicide,u cant do that honey u just can’t, we’re comfortable ,I’m working and we can depend on my lil’ wage.
Mura
I’m not convinced ,I’m not comfortable
Solange
I’m not prepare to loose you now, that’s suicide(crying)
Mura
Everything will be okay honey ,it will, we just need to do this ,I need your support.
Solange
That’s risky,big risk.
CUT TO
Scene five (Cameroon, Douala)
Kotto
Holla job, where u going to?
Job
I’m off to work, you look happy what’s hiding behind
Kotto
It happened ,my dreams about to come true.
Job
Speak up man, speak out, what’s the good news
Kotto
Tell no one I’m going to Europe, man my life has taken a different turn ,seven years after school no job! ,I just knew something good was on it’s way.
Job
Congrats man! Congratulation nice for you ,kotto I’m here struggling without hope; forty dollars a month, what can I do with that ‘’chicken feed’’, so friend when are u leaving?
Kotto
Next week probably ,sure.
Job
How are u doing this?
Kotto
By the desert ,then the seas and…….
Job
Hey! Ho! That’s an illusion,just stop that stupid dream,cross the seas to Europe that’s not possible,come on.
Kotto
I know people who made it through that way and I’ll do same ,I got the balls.
Job
You’re a big boy ,reasonable enough to know what’s good or bad ,I can’t stop you but just my blessings will be enough
Kotto
Thanks man ,thanks a lot I count on you, don’t worry about me everything would be okay
Job
When your leaving make a sign
Kotto
Sure
CUT TO
Scene six, lagos, Nigeria.
mike
Let’s start arrangements, we’ll be moving soon.
Jeremy
Where are we moving to?
Mike
To Europe of course have you forgotten?
Jeremy
You’ve started again ,I’m not with you on that
Mike
Jerem ,we’ve been suffering for long now, this is our opportunity, this is definitely our destiny ,opportunity comes once let’s grab it.
Jeremy
So how much does it take?
Mike
Five hundred thousands dollars
Jeremy
Five what!? ,your not serious that’s money man ,that’s big money we could set up a business or doing some other positive thing than throwing it into the devils mouth
Mike
But that’s an investment
Jeremy
Risky business, that’s much money ,I won’t just waste my savings.
Mike
Come one, let’s get over this once and for all.
Jeremy
Okay, tell me more about the adventure, but no promises.
Mike
Okay ,this is how it works we move from here to the desert ,from there to the straits of gilbratar ,and ‘’Spain here we are” ,from there we move everywhere, anywhere in Europe we become the ‘’Europeans”
Jeremy
Sounds easy hmm!! ,but man you’ve not convinced me enough.
Mike
Let’s move ,the journey is planned tonight
Jeremy
Already
Mike
Yeah ,I told you the other day.
Jeremy
Okay, we’ve been like brothers ,I’ll do it for you, since you’ve insisted ,but I just hope everything will move as planned?
Mike
We’ll be leaving with a friend named amir ,he’ll be our lead, he’d helped people in the past and he’ll help us.
Jeremy
How do you know he’s worth our trust?
Mike
He’s a man of God ,with good heart he’d helped people in the past.
Jeremy
Okay bro’ let’s roll
Mike
Now your talking ooh!!!, you’ve reasoned like a big boy ,let’s go catch the game.
Jeremy
So what do we need for the journey?
Mike
Some food, much food !water we need most and some money that’s all.
Jeremy
Okay we’ll assemble our ‘’war materials’ ’ ,then we leave, and what about our families?
Mike
No let’s surprise them with the good news once we’re in Spain.
Jeremy
Nice idea, nice idea.
(Jeremy and mike do the packing and leave with smiling faces)
mike(singing)
bye, bye trouble bye poverty when we meet riches we’ll send you a letter.
Jeremy
I never though about that you got fabulous ideas let’s get to our dreamland
Mike
You sound more determined than I do, all will be fine
Jeremy
What about our lead Amir?
Mike
He’ll be waiting at the frontier
You’re a master planner and I’m the supporter.
Mike
I need your support. , your friend indeed and a friend in need.
CUT TO
Scene seven ( Mali, Bamako.)
Sultan
I’ve made up my mind I’ll do as you’ve said.
Neusseman
That’s reasonable congrats! Then when would you be leaving?
Sultan
Next week.
Neusseman
Then inform your people ,tell them the good news ,I’ll give you money in return you grant me some concessions.
Sultan
I’m prepared for everything ,just to know the white mans politics.
(sultan’s having a meeting with his wives)
sultan
I called you all because I have this good news for you
Women
What’s the good news husband?.
Sultan
I’m leaving for Europe to learn the white mans politics and governance ,in fact I want to discover his magic
Women(yelling…)
You can’t do that it’s against the tradition to desert the throne.
Sultan
Who’s arguing with you all, get out, it’s my decision and it’s final, hey!, you go call my chief priest.
Maid
With rapidity his highness.
(women speaking in groups)
“the sultan is growing mad”
“the chief priest will be mad at that”
“let’s wait and see”……
chief priest enters into scene….
Chief priest
His highness you sent for me.
Sultan,
Yes ,I just wanted to get you informed on the fact I will be travelling to the west, next week.
Chief priest
Europe!!, that’s against the tradition of the ancestors that’s desertion of the throne ,that’s will not work, why are u leaving anyway?
Sultan
For the white man’s civilisation ,I want to discover his magic
Chief priest
Your not okay are you?, you have a village to control and children and wives to care for, stop that illusion.
Sultan
Who’s dreaming here ?I’m leaving in two days ,that’s definite
Chief priest dancing and singing in obscene language…….
We’re going to see ,your not going anywhere ,if you try you’ll see hell coming to you.
Sultan meets neusseman…..
Neuseman
Have you told them ?
Sultan
Yes ,but they don’t like the idea.
Neuseman
They got no say, you must leave I’ll help you do that ,you got my support
Sultan
Okay how would I be travelling to the west.
Neusseman
You will leave by train, then by ship, tomorrow I will take you to the frontier then you’ll leave in secret.
Sultan
I though I would be leaving by plane?
Neussman
Plane ,that’s risky the train will do.
Sultan
I count on you anyway.
Night….at the frontier….
Neusseman
Here we are, this is your company malik ,very good boy he’ll be your lead
Sultan
Is he leaving too?.
Neuseman
Of course that’s your money
Sultan
Thanks, I’m very grateful.
Sultan
When you return no politician would be able to stand your wrath, bye mr president.
Sultan
I’m determined
Neusseman
Malik, take care of the sultan, see you when your back.
Neusseman looking at the two adventures leaving……..
Foolish assholes(talking to himself)
Neusseman….calling and unknown
The fool is gone boss ,the gold is ours.
Voice
Good job, neusseman,I trusted you ,we got no obstacles on our way, let the coward go look for greener pastures in the west, probably he’ll fine nothing
Neusseman
Oh! Poor fool.
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Scene eight.
Alasane
Holla bern, how are u doing?
Bern
Good morning but where are u going with all these luggages?
Alasane
It’s time to leave bern, I’m off towards my destiny ,to pursue my dreams
Bern
Your kidding are you?
Alasane
Me kidding ,I topld you what I was about doing and I’m realising it
Bern
Europe on foot ,!?,that’s some nightmare.
Alasane
It’s the only way to be saved from these misery ,your suffering, I’m suffering too, there’s no hope in this country, I’ve preferred leaving
Bern
So you say, you sound determined
Alasane
The west or death.
Bern
It’s your decision, I can’t stop you, wish you good luck and when you arrive at your dreams just give me a call.
Bern.
Trust your man ,as soon as I set my feets in Spain ,I’ll give you a call.
Bern
Hope so bro, farewell.
Alasane
I’ll miss you ,but unfortunately I can be with you In hunger ,let me hurry I’ll be at the border mid night, let this be between us right?.
Bern
Count on me bro’.
CUT TO
Scene 9
Mura
Honey! ,hurry up I gotta go, get the luggages ready, food that’s more important get them packed.
Solange
I’m still not convinced about this adventure, I’m like afraid something would happen to you
Mura
Don’t be scared nothing will happen ,when I’m in Europe our lives will change ,we will have a better living standard.
Solange
People die everyday in the seas eaten up by sharks, it’s frightful, people in containers, some even get thrown in the high seas.
Mura
They weren’t fortunate enough ,but God’s on our side honey, God’s seeing all these misery he would give a helping hand
Solange
Anyway that’s your point of view…
Mura
Okay, let’s do the packing rapidly ,we’ve talked about this over and over and now I need your support.
Solange
The problem is…..
Mura
Everything would be okay. take the bags to the taxi, he’s been waiting
Taxi driver
Hurry up ,time is money!!!.
Mura
Why that sad face? I’m leaving for our good
Solange
I’m afraid, I just don’t want this tragedy to happen.
Mura
I’ll be okay, honey, just wait for my call
Taxi driver
My time is wasting ,I’ll double the fare….
Solange
Take care of yourself, baby be prudent.
Mura
Got nothing but love for you, I’ll call as soon as possible
Scene 10,douala,Cameroon.
Kotto
Dad ,I have something to tell you ,mum hope you won’t be mad at me?
Dad
Speak up son.
Mum
We’re listening’.
Kotto
I’m about leaving for Europe you all know I’ve graduated from school, no job ,nothing good for me in this country, so I’ve decided leaving.
Dad
But that’s good decision, what dop you think about that?.
Mum
Perfect.so when have you planned the journey
Kotto
Today
Mum ,dad
Today!! ,that’s abrupt.
Kotto
I just wanted it to be a surprise
Dad
But that’s sudden ,what do you think?
Mum
So sudden.
Kotto
The caravan is leaving tonight, I must be present or I’ll miss the journey.
Dad
Caravan!? ,your going with a caravan!? ,desert caravan?.
Kotto
Yes from the desert to the…….
Dad
Stop! ,just stop talking nonsense, are u insane, this child knows what he’s saying, that’s suicide, your son has gone mad
Kotto
And what are u going to do know I’m decided.
Dad
You ain’t going nowhere.
Kotto
But mum…….
Mum
U’ve heard your dad, that’s dangerous.
Kotto
Anyway it’s my decision I’m going with or without your support
Dad
That’s some stupid venture ,I think your son’s gone mad.
Mum
It’s my son when things go wrong right? ,the boy got some reason because u barely got time for us,u spend your money for drinks and cigarettes, let the boy fend for himself,he got no future in your hands
Dad
It’s your final say right ,your with him I can see.
Kotto collect’s his luggages to go see a friend…………
Kotto
Hello anyone in?
Job
How are u doing?
Kotto
I’m fine and you
Job
Poverty, poverty is the only problem, I’m dimeless
Kotto
Poverty!, poverty! ,the usual word
Job
This life is all about misery without hope ,I live hand to mouth, once I’m up just thinking about what to eat for the day, that’s my life.
Kotto
I just wanted to make you aware of my departure I will be leaving tonight bro’
Job
But that’s sudden ,I though it was planned for next week
Kotto
Plans are made and can be changed ,this is the hour, this is the time my life will change.
Job
I wish I could be in your shoes, you’re the luckiest man, ;I don’t know when my star will shine.
Kotto
Don’t worry once I’m in the west ,you will be with me I’ll help you have papers.
Job
Bro’ you’re my hope ,I wish you the best ,I have nothing to offer but my support.
Kotto
Everything will be okay
Job
Wish you the best.
Kotto
I’ll call you ,once I’ve arrived.
Scene out.
Scene eleven(The Saharan Desert)
Sultan
We’ve been walking for hours now, where’s the train station?
Malik
A train!? ,in the desert !?
Sultan
But is there no train around?
Malik
Are u really a sultan!? ,pr some clown? ,who told u a train’s running in the desert?
Sultan
Neusseman
Malik
He told you that? ,that ain’t right, we’ll walk for about two days before we meet a caravan.
Sultan
Two days!!? ,I can’t stand a day under these conditions, the sun’s really harsh.
Malik
Wer’re just beginning the journey and your already complaining? ,we are just at the beginning of the adventure
Sultan
You’ve been through this journey before?
Malik
This is my third attempt, last journey I was robbed by desert robbers ,that was really terrible experience
Sultan
And where are we gong ,I think this venture is dangerous.
Malik
We’ve already gone a long distance ,impossible to turn back ,we call it ‘’the front’’ ,the ‘west or death’’, that’s the adage here .,so old an you get your ass up.
Sultan
Hey! ,I deserve some respect, I’m a sultan despite the fact we’re suffering together
Malik
Sultan? ,screw the sultan, here there ‘s no sultan nor whatever you call it maid servant, we’re all fighting for the same goal ,so stop crying “sultan”.
Scene twelve
Mike
Here’s our lead, amir, he would be leading us across the desert ,amir my bro’ and friend Jeremy.
Amir
Nice to meet you, ready for the journey?
Jeremy
Yes we’ve been waiting for this long ago.
Amir
I hope you guys are well armed for the trip?
Mike
We’ve done our best
Jeremy
We’ve gathered what we can afford, we pray it would take us through
Amir
I hope so boys ,let’s go, y’all get on the camels
Jeremy
Never been on a camel before.
Mike
Come on, it’s easy.
Amir
Be a man let’s ride.
Alasane at the desert……
Alasane
Young man I need a help, you got any idea where I can have a lead?
Boy
I know one trader, he’s a lead but I don’t know when he will be leaving.
Alasane
Can you take me see him?
Boy
Okay,he’s living s stone throw from here.
Alasane
Let’s go then.
Boy
We fuel legs.
Scratching the head…….
Alasane
Fuel legs!!? Oh! Oh!,I can see ,u have this for yourself.
Boy
We can ride.
Boys takes alasane to a nearby room……..
Boy
U wait here I’ll not be for long.
Boy meet’s a man……..
Boy
There’s a youngman out there waiting to see you.
Boninas
A victim?
Boy
Yeah,a prey,he’s one of those adventurers.
Boninas
My smart boy let him in
Alasane
Good morning sir.
Boninas
How you doing? ,how can I help you?
Alasane
I need a desert lead ,I’m off towards the west ,to Europe.
Boninas
It entails money ,much money.
Alasane
There’s no problem about that ,I can pay for the trip.
Boninas
Are you sure?
Alasane
All I’ll do if you can lead me through.
Boninas
What do you wanna do in Europe?
Alasane
Play football,pro football,I got dreams being a football star.
Boninas
“the front” it’s difficult but if you succeed it’s success for life, okay we’ll be leaving tomorrow,you wait for me at the border.
Alasane
Thanks a lot.
The following evening ,boninas leave’s with lasane on two camels………..
Boninas
Are you ready.
Alasane
Mora than ready
Boninas
Courage boy, the camel’s the desert friend.
Scene thirteen
Mura meet’s kotto coincidentally at the border of the Sahara……….
Mura
Hey bro’ how are u doing ,are u a traveller?
Kotto
Yes ,I’m about crossing the desert, are u travelling too?
Mura
Yeah!, what a coincident I was already wondering how I would do it.
Kotto
Is this your first time taking this adventure?
Mura ,yes this is my first ,are u regular?
Kotto
Nope.
Mura
Where u from ?
Kotto
Republic of Cameroon, and you?
Mura
Rwanda ,we’re all Africans, Cameroon or Rwanda, it’s samething ,same colour ,same blood, one destiny,it’s Africa man, nice to meet you bro’.
Kotto
It’s a pleasure ,since we’re new let’s look for a lead.
Mura
That’s great idea, hey! Look at that huge guy standing over there ,he’s like looking for someone to speak with
Pointing at a tall and huge bearded man in his early forties……..
Kotto
Let’s go talk with him.
The two new friends walk towards the huge figure.
Mura
Good morning bro’
Tchombe
Good morning, what can I do for you?
In a deep voice…..
Kotto
Okay! !,we….we ‘re travellers and we ..we…..
Mura
We’re looking for a lead and…and….
Kotto
We though you are a lead….
Mura.
It was just an assumption..
Tchombe
Hey!!
Kotto, mura
We’re sorry, we’re deeply sorry.
Tchombe
No,why are u guys sorry thank got I’ve met a company ,I was actually looking for one,are you guys leaving tonight? ,by the way where you guys from?
Mura
Rwanda
Kotto
Cameroon
Tchombe
My names are landry tchombe, from the democratic republic of congo ,nice to meet you guys.
Kotto
It’s a pleasure,this is our first time as travellers ,is this your first.?
Tchombe
It’s my new found vocation, trying to gain the west ,I’ve tried three times and all failed .this is probably my last.
Kotto
Your experienced then ,we’re luck man!.
Mura
We’re damn lucky bro ’,we all going to make it this time around.
Tchombe
It’s easy to say ,too difficult to do ,the front it’s a difficult and dangerous place ,hope you guys have enough livelihood necessary for the journey? ,I mean water ,food and guns.
Mura
Guns!?
Kotto
Guns!?
Tchombe
Yes guns ,it’s a war front that’s why i call it „front “,we will surely encounter threats from desert pirates ,we have to fight and kill them
Mura,kotto
Pirates!?
Tchombe
It sounds you guys are ignorant about the reality of this journey, you’ll get to learn more about the adventure let’s hurry up and leave.
Scene exit.
The sultan and malik walking in the desert bent low as a result of the unbearable heat that shadows them….
Sultan
I’m tired, still no sign of a caravan ,what are we going to do now?
Malik STAYS mute…..
Sultan
I’m talking, are u deaf ?,I suppose you ought to be my maid
Malik
And who told you that! ?,let me mùake things clear to you, here there’s no sultan, king or whatever you call your self.
-secondly we’re equals ,I wonder, if you we’re a “sultan” you would have stayed back,so you better behave yourself
the sultan stays mute at mailik’s embargo’s
sultan
so when are we meeting the caravan or the camels?
Malik
We may meet a caravan.
Sultan
We “may”?
Malik
We “may”, “king” ,just keep you ass walking.
Sultan
Cursed be the day I me neusseman.
Malik
And whose that neusseman you keep cursing?
Sultan
The white man who tricked me into this shit.
Malik
And what did he do?
Sultan
He told me I could go to the west and learn the western civilisation and politics
Malik
I knew it? ,that’s the way you black leaders are constantly being fucked up by whitemen ,from slavery to colonialism ,and who told you your system was in adequate?
Sultan
Neusseman,oh shit
Malik
That’s the way the west plays over our intelligence, sends us away and own our whealth.
Sultan
Cursed be the day I met neusseman, he wanted some concessions in my gold mines.
Malik
You got mines?
Sultan
I regret.
Malik
You are a damn fool ,you have gold mines, money!, and where are u going to?
Sultan
I needed someone with knowledge to exploit them
Malik
Shut up! ,u got no reason ,just keep quiet before I drop you down.
After a day’s walk in the harsh desert sun amir and his crew take a break…..
Amir
Let’s stop here for the night we need a rest, it’s important for the rest of the journey. ,mike do the cooking ,Jeremy watch the camels, I’ll be back.
jeremy talking with mike.
Jeremy
I don’t trust this guy.
Mike
Why?
Jeremy
My blood indicates so, he’s like a traitor and looks like a robber too.
Mike
Oh! That’s your problem, sometimes appearances may be wrong, he’s not like that.calm down.
Jeremy
I saw him with a gun.
Mike
A gun!? ,anyway if he got one it’s for our sake ,our protection. ,everything’s gonna be okay.
Amir enters into scene…..
Amir
What are you guys discussing ? ,hurry up with your work we’ll be leaving very early in the morning.
The three men eating……
Amir
So, boys you got families?
Mike ,Jeremy
Of course ,yes
Amir
That’s it, you guys must fight for your families ,I’ll help y’all ,I’ve once been a traveller too and I want to help ambitious young men like you guys.
Mike
We’ll be glad amir.
Amir
Hey boys !,hasten up ,time is important, we need to be in rabat before next week.
Scene fourteen.
Tchombe,mura and kotto walking in the heart of the desert.
Tchombe
Are you guys okay? ,hope your fine because there’s a long way ahead, we need energy and strength for the journey.
Mura
You’ve been trying to leave your country ,but why? .is Congo a poor country I know you got resources?
Kotto
That’s right, they got enough minerals.
Tchombe
What if we can’t benefit from these resources? ,they’re being concentrated in the hands of a minority ,plus the west collects everything .Africa’s without resources ,without hope.
Tchombe
Your talking about Congo ,what about the other countries?
Kotto
Bad administrators, what’s Africa’s problem, corruption, embezzlement of public funds and kept in western banks, there’s mass unemployment t, we have families to cater for ,all that’s left is nothing..
Mura
So we move to the west, maybe being there we’ll see light.
Kotto
Your right,your very correct.
Tchombe
So you all see we’re fighting for the same cause ,we’re all brothers, same problems and same destiny.
Mura
I just remember my entire family being wiped out by the genocide.
Tchombe
That’s hard ,that was terrible scene ,I was like crying then, take heart bro’
Kotto
Fight for ‘em ,be a better person, when I would be in Europe ,I will realise my dreams being a film star,I did some theatre in college.
Tchombe
I would be a hustler, never been to school, all my brain rest’s in my hands, so I’m strong enough ,got all the muscles to do hard jobs, packing, sweeping whatever I would do.
Kotto
Screwing white ladies for some dollars too….laughs.
Tchombe
I can do all ,I mean everything.
Tchombe see a snake and blows of the snake’s head with a gun.
Tchombe
Stand still, no one makes a move.
Blows the snake’s head with his gun…..
Mura
My God a snake!!
Tchombe
I told you all ,you needed guns, this would not be the last attack, we got a long way to go.
Kotto
What do we do with this snake.
Tchombe
We keep it for some future food.
Mura
A snake!!
Tchombe
That’s a day’s meal, keep it in your bag.
Kotto
A snake, for food!?
Tchombe
Yeah,a precious day’s meal ,even a week’s.
Mura
I can’t eat a snake.
Tchombe
You can’t? ;what about drinking urine ?,have you ever though about that?
Mura
That’s impossible
Kotto
That’s some lil’ piece of shit!
Tchombe
Here you will learn to eat snakes and drink some urine ,even more ,rats and worms ,if you will find them.
Scene fifteen.
Malik walking with sultan and they suddenly perceive some strangers……
Malik
Thank you Allah!!……holding a binocular.
Sultan
What’s the problem? ,any signs?
Malik
We got some strangers ,I can see some camels, let’s hurry up and meet them.
Malik and the sultan move towards the strangers…..
Malik
Hey we’re travellers looking for a caravan we’ve been walking on foot for days now.
Pirate1
Days!?
Malik
Thanks we’ve met you guys and……
Pirate 2
You’ve got money?
Sultan
Yes enough money.
Pirate3
Enough money?
Sultan
Yes, all we need now are camels, my shoes worn out and my feet’s are threatened.
Malik
I’m suffering terribly too.
Pirate1
Okay give us all your money we’ll take you on our camels.
Smiling…..
Pirate 3
All your money ,all your food, clothes too, your in bad hands.
Removing a gun……
Pirate1
Hands up!, take out all your money and goods! ,lie flat on the ground now!!, it’s an order.
The pirate gives a smack on their bags…..
Malik
Okay ,I’ll obey
Sultan
What’s going on ,can someone tell me?
Pirate2
You’ve been robbed ,fucked up old bastard ,turn your face to the ground ,take off that ring too.
Sultan
That’s not possible it’s my ancestors ring, that’s not correct.
Pirate1
Would you give me that? ,before I blow off that stupid wrinkled thing you call a head.
Malik.
Just do as they say ,you have no option
Now trembling……..
Pirate3
Collect everything don’t let go even a drop of water.
Pitate1 and 2
Okay, boss
Pirate3
Tie them hands and feet, and no one dare’s no make a false move.
The three bandits quit with their booty flying fast on their camels.
Sultan
You guys will not abandon us here!!!!
Shouting…..
Malik
I think it’s all over now ,the game’s done.
Amir and his crew halt at a cave.
Amir
Let’s move to the cave we’ll spend the night there.
Mike ,Jeremy
Okay,that would be good.
The three men sitting besides a fireside.
Amir
Hope you got enough money with you?
Mike
Of course yes
Jeremy
Why are u asking? ,you take us to where we’re going and we pay you ,so stop asking about our money
Amir
Calm down Jeremy ,stay cool.
Amir
Your friend got a problem with my question?.
Jeremy
I just don’t trust him ,why is he asking ?
Mike
Stay quiet ,amir is a friend.
Amir
Your friend is…..what’s his problem by the way.
Mike
Just stressed up after a hard day don’t mind him
I’m tired let’s have a rest tomorrow’s another day.
In the morning at the cave…
Amir
We’re about leaving but unfortunately you will not like what’s about to happen
Mike
What’s the problem.
Amir
Drop all your money and turn your backs to the wall hands up, and no false move or I strike you down……..removing a rifle….
Jeremy
I told you this ,I knew things would turn this way, he was not to be trusted
Amir
Wise enough boy but unfortunately your agility won’t take you far.
Amir ties them up ,both hands and legs.
Mike
You just can’t do this to us ,you’re a trusted friend for God’s sake.
Jeremy
Fucken traitor you’ll rot in hell.
Amir
Me rot in hell!! ?,your already feeling hell you see these bones… (pointing at some skeletons)
There once existed flesh on them, they were walking bones but now they’re mere bones and soon ground and nothing but soil, tragic end isn’t it?
Jeremy
You will be more than soil in fact your already a dead man.
Mike
You just can’t do this
Amir
I’ve already done it ,sorry mike I’m very sorry ,the owners of these bones were not fortunate enough and you will not be exempted.
Jeremy
We’ll meet one day
Amir
Perhaps not because I won’t be in hell
Bye kids you will be in the west ,maybe in the other life, only if you believe in life after death ,as for me I’m returning back to Africa.
Jeremy
Son of a bitch ,he’ll regret I told you, this guy wasn’t worth our trust.
Mike
That’s not possible
Jeremy
I told you
Mike
But…but….what can you do to save the situation!! ?,tell me?
Jeremy
I told you but you just can listen
Boninas and alasane walking at the heart of the desert.
Boninas
You want to be a footballer right?
Alasane
Yes,that’s always been my childhood dream playing pro
Boninas
Once been a footballer, that ain’t easy, hope you know being a pro is no easy job?
Alasane
Then what happened to your career?
Boninas
I was tricked by a so-called football recruiter, he abandoned me here in the desert my career was over ,but why can’t you start playing at the national level?.
Alasane
The national league, nope I feel ready for the pro.
Boninas
But success in Europe’s never been easy that’s what people think ,you can spend a life time at the gilbratar before reaching the west.
Alasane
Is the journey still long?
Boninas
We got about a week or two in the desert.
Alasane
A week or two!!?
Boninas
You got about a month or maybe you’ll spend the rest of your life here in the desert in solitude
Alasane
What do you mean?
Boninas
You’ve been here before or is this your first time?
Alasane
Never been here before, but heve friends who’ve been through this adventure
Boninas
And did they succeed?
Alasane
Never got their news again.
Boninas
Maybe they’re among the unfortunate ones, poor boys or perhaps at the straits of gilbratar waiting for a day to feel the sunlight of Madrid, are you going to succeed?
Alasane
I’m prepared for it and determined to arrive in Europe through whatever means.
Boninas
The boy’s determined, can you do that alone?
Alasane
No! of course I need your help
Why are u not leaving for Europe yourself
Boninas
I’m contented here in Africa ,doing my job as a lead it’s lucrative.
Alasane
A family?
Where are u from?
Boninas
Your getting personal I want a break
Let’s have a short rest before continuing tomorrow.
Scene sixteen
Mura
We’ve been walking for day’s now, still no signs of vegetation or water.
Kotto
I’m just wondering, the bags of water are getting finished and there is no hope will find a nearby well.
Tchombe
We’re in the heart of the Sahara about a weeks walk to the first oasis, there we’ll have enough water and some food too.
Mura
A weeks walk! I’ll be dead by then.
Tchombe
Try not to be dead then, that’s why we call it ‘’the front’’
It’s a war from you over come the desert or the desert overcomes you.
You’ve never been to a war front I suppose?
Kotto
Nope.
Never been through any civil war or whatever in the name of a revolution.
Mura
Don’t mention about wars.
I hate wars guns and everything that can kill a human being.
Tchombe
I’ve seen and done it all
I’ve been in actual war front fighting.
Mura
And you took away souls?
Tchombe
If you don’t kill them bad souls, them bad souls kill you.
Tchombe
I can see the way you exhibited your skills, the way you shot and killed the snake, that’s skills of a pro
Tchombe
You’ve said it all, I’m a sniper.
Mura
You haven’t told us all the story, your keeping something for yourself, I wonder what a sniper could be doing in the desert?
Kotto
I’m wondering too.
Tchombe
I fought the 98 civil war in ex-Zaire, the present democratic republic of Congo.
Mura
Fighting on which camp?, the government or the rebellion?
Tchombe
The dictatorial government is not worth my support, corrupt and nepotism, everything you can think of a bad government.
Kotto
Which implies you’re a rebel?
Mura
Your frightening ,I never knew you were that bad?
Tchombe
Ex-rebel, I was head of the regiment.
Mura
So your amongst the bad gangs bringing chaos in Africa, and why are you leaving now.?
Tchombe
I’ll never leave, I’ll be coming back for revenge, after the aborted coup we’re all exiled and some sentenced to death, I had the chance to be exiled.
Kotto
I guess your wanted in Congo?
Tchombe
Yes, you want take me back there?
Mura
If I could, I would do it, maybe you’re amongst those who shot my family back in the Rwandan genocide.
Tchombe
Maybe your family was destined to die.
Mura
What do you mean!?
Tchombe
Yes, we need unfortunate blood to spill so that common problems can be settled.
Kotto
Are u insane!?, that’s not serious, that’s some lil’ piece of shit.
The two men engage themselves in a serious brawl………
Mura
Next time ill kill you!, just mention that again.
Kotto
Hey!, boys that’s all over were here for a mission let’s work this out, you want to fight with your guns in the desert now?, keep your energy, we need your strength for the rest of the journey.
Tchombe
Let me teach him a lesson.
He’s held down by kotto….
Kotto
Calm down, he’s just too exited over nothing, just keep your temper away.
Mura
Let him come, he’ll learn to control his words.
sultan and malik still walking hopelessly in the desert praying for divine intervention
sultan
still no hope of humanity
malik
let’s keep walking, maybe Allah will come for help
sultan
I can’t continue I’m hungry and thirsty, go get me some water please.
Malik
If I had a drop I will drink for myself
Sultan
Your not acting right, I’m your elder and sultan for God’s sake.
Malik
I’ve told you time and time again that there’s no sultan nor maid here, your not different from a beggar now so calm down ‘’ old boy”
Sultan
The chief priest warned me against this, I won’t even listen from him, had I known, now I’m in deep shit
Malik
“Had I known”, has always been the last word unfortunately we can’t return the past.
Sultan
Any village around here?.
Malik
A weeks walk from here. Only if we’re not swallowed up by the desert storm
Sultan
The desert storm?
Malik
Yes,we’ve not met the strong winds yet, it may cover you up and no one will ever know where your silly scull is lying
Sultan
I’m scared I suggest we make a turn back.
Malik
Returning?, no way we’re already at the battle front we’ve lost the battle and not the war, De gaulle said that after the capture of Paris.
Sultan
It’s a lost battle, we’re leading towards the unknown no food, no water, no hope.
Malik
I got hope. |
|
Scene out.
Jeremy and mike still in the cave waiting for the last minutes of their lives………..
Jeremy
I’m going down mike, it’s over I’m damn hungry and thirsty.
Mike
Bro’s I’m fainting away, no signs of help or hope
Jeremy
It’s all gone, no one will ever hear about us again, we’ve made a big mistake not getting the family aware of the adventure, it’s such a sad tragedy, if I knew this would be the outcome.
Mike
The future is unforeseeable, and Amir was a trusted friend.
Jeremy
He was mike…he was…..here we’re tied up destined to be eaten up by some snakes or other desert creatures, I never saw myself ending up this way. I’m fading away mike.
Mike
Don’t you say that again, we got another chance.
Jeremy
Another chance you say, maybe in heaven, that’s finally where we all long to belong, where we can go without having to pay a price or yet still a visa.
Mike
It was all a foolish venture.
Jeremy
Even the south African great trek was not as difficult and tedious as this.
Mike
Were you there?
Jeremy
I know my history, I know my African history.
Mike
Time out mike, see you in the other life
Mike
Jeremy!!…Jeremy!!, we can count on something., it’s all a tragedy.
Boninas and alasane suddenly see a shallow well……
Boninas
Let’s get down, we’ll get some water in the well, our reserve is almost exhausted.
Alasane
Thank God I was already damn thirsty, you’re a perfect lead.
Boninas
We’ll get to know.
Smiling….
Boninas
It’s a little bit dry get down and fetch some water.
Alasane
I can’t,it’s risky job, I can’t do it alone
Boninas
I’ll help you, here’s a rope you’ll take it down and I’ll pull you out okay?.
Alasane
I’ll try.
Looking inside the shallow well…….
But it’s dark in here!
Boninas
Your asking too much questions, just get down, I’ll show the torch.
Alasane
No water in here it’s all dry
Going down the rope coughing…..
Boninas
Dry?
Now laughing………
Alasane
I’m damn serious, send the rope, get me out!, it’s dark and smelling, there’s a human body and a skeleton!!, please!!!
Boninas
Do you read the bible?
Alasane
What has the bible got to do with me now, pull me out.
Boninas
Do you know about the biblical story of Joseph and the brothers.
Alasane
What has biblical story in common with my present situation? ,it’s no fun boni!, take me outta here.
Boninas
Josephs brothers were not lucky enough, Joseph young and intelligent got all the luck and blessings in his side, and something particular about Joseph, he was a dreamer like you, you know what I do to dreamers?
Now laughing……
Alasane
I don’t know, please help me out.
Boninas
I’ll tell you, I throw them in the well, just as they did to Joseph.
Alasane
But Joseph ended up being the governor of Egypt and helped his brothers, take me out please.
Boninas
He had the chance to be sold as a slave perhaps slavery was abolished long ago, so no slavers passing around, I would have liked selling you for some few pennies.
Alasane
I’m your brother, we’re all suffering why are you doing this to me, I’m black, we’re all alike, think like you do and we have same problems boni….
Boninas
Your right my boy, but I keep wondering why the slavers were blacks, catching their fellow black brothers, you can see how a black president treats his people in Africa, I’m sorry it’s just the black man’s ways.
Alasane
So your behaving like the black slave trader?
Boninas
Yes, this is the new form of slavery, this is the way I earn my living ,it’s the new trade.
Alasane
It’s not funny boni….your playing with a life and destiny.
Boninas
You got no destiny….eh no!! you got one, in the belly of a reptile.
Alasane
Forgive me if I did something wrong please.
Boninas
Don’t blame me, blame the system, bye dreamer boy…
Alasane
No! no!!!!! ,please don’t leave me in here.
Boninas
I wish I could take you out, but my negative conscience tells me no, just keep praying like Joseph hoping for some rescue if not you may have another chance in paradise.
Alasane cries in despair…………boninas close’s the well behind him
Scene out.
Scene seventeen.
After the physical brawl the three adventures continue their journey.
Tchombe
You have calmed down at last.
Mura
I was terrible crossed by your words.
Kotto notices some camel prints on the sand…
Kotto
I can see some camel prints
Mura
Your vigilant, they’re two in number.
Tchombe
Let’s slow down a little, I smell danger coming.
You guys halt for a while I’m coming
Mura
It’s risky
Kotto
Very risky.
Tchombe
I’ll take the gun, you guys take these be my cover if all fall in ambush
Mura
Never held a gun before
Tchombe
Here you’ll learn to hold one if possible kill.
Kotto
Be prudent.
The sultan and malik…..
Malik
Come on. .we’re almost at the first oasis
Chief
Almost?
Malik
Be brave, you said you are a king, is this the way kings behave?
Sultan
My feet’s are worn out I can barely walk.
Malik
Try, try we have fortune ahead waiting
Sultan
What are you saying I got fortune at home ,where am I going to?
Sultan
Hey! Hey!, wait for me, cursed be the day I met neusseman I’m damn thirsty I need some water
Malik
All I got here is my urine, I’ll drink it at the end of the day.
Sultan
Please for some droplets.
Malik
Try to pass out some for yourself.
Sultan
I’ve tried to no avail.
Malik
You better insist.
Sultan
I want to die
Crying….
Malik
Death can’t be easy when life is hard, push on, only the strong survive, do you know the theory of the survival of the fittest ?
Sultan
You’ve learned theories in school what have you done with them?
Malik
I’ve been to college, I wasn’t fortunate enough.
Sultan
And you believe you’ll see fortune in Europe?
Mailik
Europe or death.
Tchombe is heading towards the footprints and suddenly hears a gun shot….
Tchombe
Damn…
Boninas
Don’t move or turn around, drop your gun down or I’ll blow off your head.
Tchombe
I’m pacific, I’m not out for trouble.
Boninas
There’s no good guy here, were all dangerous beasts.
Cool! Coo! A familiar face
Tchombe silent…..
Boninas
Tchombe, captain tchombe, the Congo fiasco right?
Tchombe remains silent….
Boninas
What goes around come’s around, the world is a little village captain, i told you this.
Tchombe
You traitor I though you were in hell by now
Boninas
Unfortunately for you I escaped the raid, this time I’ll…..
Giving tchombe a hard kick.
Mura and kotto starring at the scene…..
Mura
What’s happening?
Kotto
Old enemies meeting in troubled times at the wrong place.
Mura
Lets’ intervene?
Kotto
Wait for a minute let’s take another turn and attack the stranger from the back.
Mura
Sound like some pro….,that’s wise enough.
The two ex rebels continue with their past stories…
Boninas
You thought the world was yours, now your exiled and equally hunted like me.
Tchombe
Bastard I wish I could send you to hell, that’s your home.
Boninas
It’s a wish, only a wish captain you will meet hell sooner or later, so what are you doing in the desert?, any coup around here?
Laughs…
Oh!, I guess you are one of the fucken adventures, I just abandoned one of your kind in a shallow well, he’s probably dead.
Tchombe
What are you waiting for? You ain’t got the balls, son I thought you all these, to fire a rifle, to kill.
Boninas
Why are you in a hurry to die uh!!?, you place the guns in my hand, that’s the reason why I’ll kill you now.
Tchombe
Shoot now.
Boninas
You’ve given the green light, you can say your last prayer
Pointing the gun on tchombe’s forehead.
Boninas
Bye captain
Kotto and mura intervenes
Kotto
Drop that gun…
Mura
This may be the beginning of the end…
Boninas
Damn…..your always lucky
Kotto
I’ll count zero to one, drop your damn gun.
Boninas desperately drops the gun.
Kotto
And hands up!, no false move
Mura picks up the gun….
Tchombe
Nice job boys, you’ve done the perfect job at the perfect time.
Tie the bastard up, we’ll take him to the shallow well where he dropped the boy.
Mura
A boy!!!
Tchombe gives boni some hard punches on the stomach, and some slaps too ,boni takes them to the shallow well.
Boni
Here’s the well.
Tchombe
Pull out the boy yourself, take this rope.
Kotto
Anyone in here!?
Holla!, anyone in here!?
Mura
He should be dead by now.
It’s dark in there, I can’t see anything.
Tchombe
Give me that torch let me see(coughing)
Damn! It’s smelling, the boy’s fainted.
Kotto
Let me go get the boy he’ll need some fresh air.
Kotto descends into the shallow well…
Kotto
I got the boy he’s living, pull us out
He’s going to recover.
Tchombe
Give him some water and keep him in the cart
Now you know what’s about to happen to you?, do you know the adage “he who lives by the sword will die by the sword?”, it all goes to all those “who kill others by dropping them in the pit would also be treated same way.
Boni cries and resists to no avail.
Tchombe
This time around, impossible for you to escape, what and end, you know the story of Daniel and the loins ?
Boni
Rot in hell you bastard.
Tchombe
Daniel was lucky enough to survive because he was innocent of all charges placed by his persecutors, but I think, your treated this way because you deserve it, you treated others badly.
Boni
We’ll meet again.
Tchombe
Wherever your going, if you meet me I’ll give you same treatment ,bye boni save journey.
Boni is buried up by mura and kotto
Tchombe
Never say never, you’ve just taken a life, you buried a living human being
Mura
I did that with just cause
Tchombe
I did what I did, all for a just cause, whose to blame?
Kotto
That’s all over let’s proceed.
Scene eighteen
Malik and sultan suddenly perceive a cave like structure in a distance…
Malik
Let’s stop, it’s a cave?, it’s a safe haven to spend the night, some lizards to eat today.
The two adventurers suddenly halt at the entrance of the cave.
Malik
Stop!!, I can see some footprints, they’re three in number, there have been or there is some persons in here.
Sultan
It’s dangerous let’s go back, maybe some other thugs.
Malik
Let’s go and see.
Sultan
Allah!!, two young men!!, let’s go and rescue them they’re tied up, terrible.
Malik
They’re almost , perhaps they’re travellers, maybe they’re victims
Sultan
To same bastards!?
Malik
Surely, let’s untie them.
Sultan
Oh! Water!, precious water!.
Malik
What!?
Sultan
Water!, we got water in large bags necessary for the rest of journey.
Malik
I was just wondering what we’re going to give to the boys, give me some of the water
Sultan
What!?, our water!?
It won’t be enough for the two of us, what if we give it to a third and forth person, a stranger!
Malik
I can see the greed, I can see the beast in you, you portray what an African leader can do in a situation of this kind.
Give that water you old fool….
Sultan
Your insulting me, malik I’m your superior and elder.
Malik
Yes, that’s what you are
You represent the African so call greedy and stupid superior, you want everything for yourself, that’s not correct for a leader.
Sultan
You better respect yourself or…
Malik
Right now you’re a toothless bulldog you can bark but can’t bite.
Sultan
We’ll see
Malik
Are boys are recovering!!!.
Sultan
Arm yourself with whatever they may be pretending
Malik
At least you’ve spoken something reasonable since I’ve known your wrinkled face.
Alasane suddenly wake’s up from his dream….
Kotto
Our boy’s up.
Mura
Hey! Welcome on board
Alasane
Where am I?
Tchombe
Your in save hands
Alasane
What happened?
Kotto
We saved you from the pit, and from your aggressor, what’s the thugs name?
Tchombe
Boni…boni the traitor
Mura
The scene showed you’ve known the bastard before.
Kotto
I guess so too.
Tchombe
Wayback during the Congo war ,he was second in command in my regiment.
Kotto
Ex-rebel
Tchombe
He’s dead by now the bastard
Mura
Then why are u fighting with him?
Tchombe
He sold our plans to the national forces and we fell in ambush, my regiment was watered down I’m fortunate to be here
Kotto
Sad story.
Alasane
Where’s boni.
Tchombe
You want to see him?, six feet, probably in hell now.
Mura
It’s all a rebel’s tragedy.
At the cave.
Sultan
The boy’s are up!!
Malik
Where are you from what are your names?
Mike
We need food!
Jerem
We need water!!
Sultan
Give them water and some meat.
Mike and Jeremy swallow up the beef in a second and drink the bags of waters like thirsty camels.
Sultan
So what are your names and where are you from?
Mike
From Nigeria
Jeremy
Nigeria
Malik
Your brothers!?
Jeremy, mike (unanimously)
We’re more than friends.
Sultan
You guys are travellers?
Mike
We’re trying to reach the straits of gilbratar.
Malik
And what happened?, we met you guys tied up both hands and feet.
Jeremy
Yes, a robber named amir fucked us up, our lead.
Malik
He took everything we owned, money and food.
Sultan
This is definitely dangerous trip, ever since we’ve been here, we’ve met no good guy, only bad guys.
Malik
That’s why they call it “front”
Sultan
Boys my names are sultan Ahmad amr, you can call me sultan, and here is my supposedly lead though hostile, we’re happy to meet you.
Jeremy, mike
Nice to meet you too.
Amir is rushing across the desert on his horse happily when he’s suddenly trapped down.
Amir
Goddam!!! What’s going on!?
Pirate1
Hello, your in bad hands.
Pirate2
All your money, jewels and clothes if any
Pirate 3 searching amir’s bags
Damn!, boss he’s a robber, a desert thug.
Pirate1
What do we do to desert pirates?
Pirate2
We rob them.
Pirate1
After we rob tem what do we do with them?
Pirate 3
We kill them.
Pirate1
Have you heard your sentence?
Amir
You can collect everything, but just spare me.
Pirate1
Let’s spare his life?
Pirate3
Nope, he may come for us, he’s a thug you know.
Pirate 1
Okay send him to his grave.
The pirates give amir three shot’s on the chest and leave the scene….
Malik, sultan, Jeremy and mike pack up their backs….
Malik
Time to leave
Sultan
Are you guys ready?
Jeremy, mike
We’re ready
Malik
Let’s move we’ll arrive the first oasis tomorrow and gilbratar in a week or two if things work as planned.
Tchombe walking with his desert gang.
Tchombe
Young man, why are you risking your life you got all the time in front of you
Alasane
I want to reach the west through whatever means.
Kotto
That ain’t easy If I could turn back the hands of time ,I wouldn’t have been here it’s a risky bizz.
Mura
Everyday I keep thinking about my wife solange ,she must be worried now.
Tchombe
Whose solange?
Mura
She’s my fiancée I told her I would be in the west in two months here am I in the desert praying to see tomorrow.
Tchombe
I’m a sacrificed lamb, got no wife nor family someone to think about, if I die today it all depends on me.
Kotto
Life’s nothing, trying to catch an empty air, something you can’t see.
Mura
If I could live to tell the story, no one would dare to attempt risking his life
Tchombe
You still haven’t told me your reason leaving Africa.
Alasane
Africa needs me but is not willing to keep me, I’m not contented living in war and poverty, who does not like the western world?
Kotto
The boy got a reason, that’s why I’m leaving too
Tchombe
Let’s just strive and attain our objectives, that will save our efforts.
Scene out…….
Scene nineteen…
Sultan
Where are you guys heading to, your country got oil fields, that’s much money.
Mike
If you benefit from your national resources then, what do you do?.
Jeremy
It’s owned by some particulars persons.
Malik
Why are you bothering the boys with useless questions, huh!, you left fortune back in the hands of a white man and you’re here speaking trash….cool down old man.
Suddenly a thunder like sound starts grumbling from a distance………….
Sultan
What’s that!!
Malik
Something terrible is about to happen.
Sultan
Like what!!!
Mike, Jeremy
What’s about happening?
Malik
The desert storm!!!, let’s turn back, hurry up
Sultan
I’m damn tired, I can’t run.
The three adventurers start running and Jeremy falls into a pit and sand burry’s him.
Mike
Jeremy…..jJEREMY…….screaming
Sultan
What’s happen?
Malik
Jeremy…jeremy he’s fallen in a pit.
Mike
Let me go save my brother….screaming.
Malik
There’s no time let’s run for our lives.
Pulling mike away……..
Mike
I just can’t abandon him.
Sultan
Come on boy let’s go the storm will know not your intentions.
Mike yelling and crying………No………………….
The storm calms down in the morning, and the three surviving adventurers go say farewell to mike.
Sultan
It’s all over mike, your bro’ was a very good boy he could make it
Malik
Such a brave boy, what a tragic end.
Sultan
Who’s the next ?;no one know, death can be a solution in such circumstances.
Mike
I’m sorry Jeremy it was all a stupid venture, here you are far from home, I’m still waiting for my turn who will live to tell the story?
Malik
He’s gone mike, dead and buried let’s continue our journey.
Sultan
Let’s go mike, it’s all over, your bro’ will be happy to see you succeed.
Malik
Do it for Jeremy.
Mike
You don’t know what your saying, it’s my bro’ lying here in the heart of the desert, six feet’s inside away from home.
Sultan
Up mike we got a long journey waiting, let’s go..
Mike
I’ll tell the world of your courage and bravery, the family would be proud of you, you’ll stay in my memory, bye Jeremy, bye.
Sultan
Let’s go mike, let’s move.
Malik
Bye Jeremy, I’ll see you very soon.
Scene twenty(the, four men moving into the cave).
Tchombe
We’ll take a little break before continuing tomorrow.
Mura,kotto alasane.
Okay boss.
Tchombe
Kotto prepare something for diner, mura clean up the camels, alasane you guard tonight.
Alasane
Okay.
Mura
Take a look!!!, some fresh footprints and clothes, I think we have some people around here.
Kotto
Yes there are some signs of human movement.
Tchombe
They’re four in number
Alasane
Good, people?
Tchombe
I think so, they’re travellers I presume.
Kotto
Should we go after them?
Tchombe
No, why should we?, we’ll move as planned.
Alasane
Terrible!!!, skulls and bones!!!!
Mura
Suspicious, they may be bandits then.
Kotto
Definitely
Tchombe
We’ll move cautiously not to hurt ourselves.
Kotto
Yes that’s nice idea.
Mura
Yes
Alasane
But why u scared?, we got ‘em guns and a good captain.
Mura
“captain”
tchombe
what am I them?
Mura
You know what you are..
Tchombe
Everyone move to his duties
Laughing….
Kotto
No food left except the dead snake.
Tchombe.
Get it cooked then.
Mura
I’m not eating snakes I ain’t a bush man.
Tchombe
No one will ask you to eat, no give it to you.
The group start laughing in mockery……
Kotto
Dinner’s ready, let’s fill our bellies.
Tchombe.
Hmmm….delicious.
Alasane
We do eat vipers in my village, won’t you have a taste mura?
Mura
I’ll taste just to please you.
Tchombe
To please your belly, coward.
The group burst in laughter…..
Scene twenty one
Malik
We’re in the oasis at last we’ll be able to fill our water bags.
Sultan
And stomach too.
Mike
Nothing make’s me happy now that Jeremy is no more.
Malik
Jeremy is dead and gone though he’ll remain in our hearts.
Sultan
Malik fill the water bags, mike you satisfy the camels, I’ll take care of the lunch.
Malik
You’re useful to the group for once at least.
Mike smiles…
Sultan
Weren’t I useful when I saved your life from the storm asshole?
Mike
That’s all over let’s get to work
Sultan
There’s a village around should we make a stop to get some food?
Malik
No! let’s do fast, they’re primitive and hostile, it’s even said they’re flesh eaters
Mike
Cannibals!!!?
Sultan
What can they do?
Tchombe and his crew continues their journey….
Tchombe
Let’s move boys, hope everybody’s ready?
Kotto
We can leave.
Tchombe
We’ll be at the first oasis in a days walk.
Kotto
We need water, both us and the camels.
Alasane
Food too.
Tchombe
A hostile village is around the oasis, so we got to be careful.
Mura
Hostile village I’ve got enough trouble let’s turn back, I got a woman back.
Alasane
What are you saying we got an objective to attain.
Tchombe
Tell him son, tell him, if you don’t want to continue, your free to turn back.
Kotto
Spain is just a stone throw you want to leave, you can go man.
Mura
If I knew I wouldn’t have been here in the first place.
Tchombe
No one brought you here, man you looked for it.
The sultan and his crew are being attacked by a group of unknown individuals. Soldier
No one makes a move!!!
Sultan
What’s going on!?
Mike
Damn!!!
Malik
We are under siege.
Soldier2
What are u doing around the sultan’s property?
Soldier3
They are enemies trying to poison the waters
Soldier1
I’m sure, you’ll be conducted to the sultan.
Soldier2
Move on now!!
Sultan
I’m sultan too I deserve some good treatment.
Soldier3
The old one sounds recalcitrant,
Sultan
Let me go, stupid bastards!!!
Mike
It’s all over now.
Malik
If you could be silent now, this is a critical moment.
Scene out.
The other group discover their new found gold in the desert……
Mura
Y’all see what am seeing!!!?
Tchombe
We’re at the oasis, we will get water to finish the journey.
Alasane
If we could carry the lake along.
Tchombe
There’s a hostile village around, so boys let’s hurry up.
Mura
Hostile village!!!?
Alasane
Goddam !!
Tchombe
It’s even allerged they’re flesh eaters.
Mura
Cannibals!!!!!
Tchombe
Cannibals let’s hurry up.
Sultan and his gang facing trial at the sultan’s palace.
Sultan
What’s their problem?
Soldier 1
They were caught poisoning the lake
Sultan
What!!!
Sultan2
That’s true his highness
Sultan
Kneel down you fools!!!
Mike and malik kneel down but the sultan is recalcitrant.
Sultan
I am a sultan, and I need to be respected.
Malik
Would you shut up that trap!!!, be submissive now at least.
Indigene sultan
The old one is dangerous take him away and make him see his blood.
The sultan is taken away, he tries to resist to no avail.
Indigene sultan*
Let the rest be locked up.
Mike and malik are taken to a different cell.
Tchombe and his crew enjoying their new found mine when suddenly.
Soldier
Drop your guns down!!!!, the sultans army.
Alasane
This is the beginning of the end.
Kotto
Damn!!
Mura
And we became their dinner.
Soldier2
They’re with guns
Soldier3
Guns!!!!
Soldier1
Then they must be dangerous thugs.
Tchombe
We’re only adventurers trying to….
Soldier1
You’ll be taken to the sultan he’ll be the one to judge, move on y’alll!!!!!
Mura
I guess it’s all over.
At the sultans court.
Soldier1
They were found with guns
Sultan
Guns!!?
Soldier2
They’re enemies
Tchombe
We’re just travellers and…..
Sultan
Take them to prison, same treatment.
The adventurers in prison with the sultans crew.
Malik
Cool, we got visitors.
Sultan
Visitors?
Mike
They look like travellers.
Malik
I think so too.
Mike
Hey!, where u guys from?
Alasane
We’re travellers, we just got caught up by the indigenes.
Sultan
Cool, African meet where are u guys from?
Tchombe
I’m tchombe from the republic of congo, mura from Rwanda and alasane he’s from ivory coast.
Sultan
I’m sultan amir from the republic of tchad, my so called lead malik from the republic of Mali, mike from Nigeria.
Tchombe
So why are u guys hooked up here?
Sultan
Same reason like u, were being taken for dangerous enemies, the journey’s not been an easy one, we’ve been through shit u know.
Tchombe
That’s why they call it ‘’front”, that said we’re glad to meet you guys, it’s a real African union.
The soldier comes into scene
Soldier
Hey! There’s your food take.
Tchombe
This is real bullshit
Alasane
It’s all over my journey ends here
Tchombe
Don’t be discouraged boy we still got another chance.
Mike
Maybe in heaven.
Cut to
The adventurers plan for an escape
Tchombe
We need to get out from here
Sultan
Its dangerous
Malik
What do we do then
Kotto
We don’t have guns
Tchombe
Lets draw a plan then
The soldier comes in to give dinner
Soldier
Here is your dinner
Tchombe
Tomorrow this time when the bastard want serve dinner ill pull hi; by the neck and qa brave one takes the gun
Alasane
I do that
Tchombe
Brave boy
Sultan
That is good idea
Tchombe
We work that way
Cut to
The next day the guard is about serving dinner when tchom;be seiwes hi; bye the neck
Tchombe
Some one takes the gun/
Malik
Lets hurry up the guards are coming
Alasane
I got the guns lets run
The guards and tchombe exchanging gun shots
Tchmbe
Hurry up were under attack
We leave with the horses theyre faster
Mura
Nice idea
The adventurers leave on horses riding across the desert sand they finally settle down some ;iles from the indigenes settlement
Sultan
Seems all is over now were safe
Tchombe
That’s apparent man
Kotto
Is gilbratar far from here
Malik
A days walk from here
Alasane
Atlast it’s a dream come true
Tchombe
Its not yet that sure man
Malik
U can still be trapped down by gilbratar there thousands of Africans waiting there with hopes of entering spain one day
Sultan
Years
Tchombe
Years it can be a life time
Alasane suddenly perceives a lorry from a distance the adventurers moving towards the lorry with apprehension
Alasane
What can be over there
Tchombe viewing with his binoculars
It’s a lorry lets go see whats happening there
Mike
They could be bandits
;ura
Its dangerous lets continue our way
Tchombe
We got the guns lets go see
Cut to
The adventurers discover half decaying bodies at the back of the lorry
Mura
Damn human bodies
Alasane
They are frightful and its almost decaying
Tchombe
God save us they are travellers for sure
Mike
I think so
Sultan
Maybe they died because of hunger
Tchombe
That’s right so what do we do know
Malik
Lets burry the dead
Sultan
Its dangerous lets go
Tchumbe
We give them last respect that’s Important
Alasane
We could be them too
Tchombe
That’s right my boy
Cut to
The bodies are buried up and the adventures are about leaving
Tchombe
We have done our best burying the dead
Malik
They where brothers
Mike
;ay their souls rest in peace
Kotto
All because of the west
Cut to
The adventurers continue their way when they suddenly hear gun shots from a distance they try to take positions
Tchombe viewing from his binoculars
Holy shit were being pursued by the indigenes.
Mura
What are we doing now?
Gun shots from a distance, kills mura and the sultan,tchombe succeeds to repel the indigenes and malik suffers a minor injury
Tchombe
We’ve lost two brave soldiers
Malik
They were dear to us, may their souls rest in peace.
Mike
Hope they would be fine where they’re going, where there are no restrictions.
Alasane
I’m sure it’s all over.
Tchombe
Sure, boys the dead are dead we’re leaving let’s fight for them.
Malik
Bye sultan it was all a useless venture, you’ll stay in our minds forever.
Kneeling besides the graves……..
Tchombe
Boys let’s leave we have the world ahead waiting.
The surviving spirits continue their endless march across the harsh desert sun, contemplating about the future.
Mike
Here we are walking like slaves, what’s the difference between us and slaves, maybe the only difference is we’re not being chained up, with slavers walking around us
Tchombe
Are we really different?, we’re just in a different form of slavery
Alasane
I’m just waiting to be there, the world would get to know my anger, I’ll take revenge.
Tchombe
Thank you oh! Lord there is gilbratar……..pointing.
Mike
Where!!!
Alasane
Gilbratar
Tchombe
Boy’s we’ve arrived look!! There in the horizons the sun of gilbratar about a stone through to spain.
Alasane
Let’s celebrate, cool!!!
Tchombe
Celebrate!?,till we’re in spain the battle ain’t over.
Cut to.
The adventurers admiring the town of gilgratar waiting for their last departure to spain, a market full of arab traders and fellow travellers waiting shipment.
Man
Ship to spain leaving tonight!!!, ship to spain come take your last journey to everlasting European joy.
Tchombe
Here we are slaves waiting for shipment, that’s what we are.
Mike
Really. That’s what we are.
Alasane
How much is the trip?
Tchombe
Forty dollars
Alasane
I was robbed off all my money, what do I do know?
Tchombe
Don’t worry I’ll provide for you
Alasane
Thanks bro’ you’re a brother and friend indeed.
Tchombe
Don’t worry son.
Mike
I want tell something to you all, hope you’ll take it.
Tchombe
What’s it!!?
Alasane
What mike!!?
Mike
I ain’t leaving with you guys,
Tchombe
Why!!?
Alasane
We’re at the gates of heaven man, u can’t just say that.
Mike
Gates of heaven? , u don’t even know what your saying.
Tchombe
What’s your problem now, we have arrived
Mike
That’s not evident, being in gilbratar is not implicit to success, there are thousands of niggers around here, who’ve been waiting for years to breathe the air of Madrid.
Alasane
This is your chance, my chance, our chance to make it, opportunity comes once.
Tchombe
That’s right*
Mike
Someone have to live to tell the story that said I’m gone, good luck boys, it was fun with you’all I’m returning to Africa.
malik
You can change your mind.
Alasane
It’s never ain’t late*
Mike
Auf wiedersehn.brothers.
Mike leaves ,the clique stands still watching mike disappearing, the market is busy, bringing the nostalgia of a slave market, and slaves waiting departure in chains.
Cut to.
Voice1
The last journey is programed tonight get your tickets to spain!!!!
Tchombe moves towards the man
We’re three in number and we want to leave with you how much do we pay?
Man
Three hundred bucks,
Tchombe
We got two hundred and a half
Man
That’s not possible.
Tchombe
Okay I’m in, so where do we meet you?
Man
Tomorrow mid-nite besides a blue engine boat.
Malik
Are there no patrols?
Man
It’s summer, the’re on vacation and the seas are dry,it’s our opportunity we take it
Alasane
Whatever.
Tchombe
We’re game.
At the shores of the red sea the adventurers sit around in groups waiting for departure, some are sceptical about the night’s journey
Man1
I wonder if we’ll survive tonight.
Man2
It’s my sixth attempt, this would be my last.
Alasane
It’s my first and I must succeed.
Tchombe
That’s not evident my boy.
A tall slim figure appears into scene with a torch pointing on the adventurers, he’s speaking in a low tune, and the adventurers listen with attension
Man
Get yourselves ready we’re leaving at mid-night there are no patrols, so hurry up men!!!
The adventurers hurry packing their bags
Man
Hey! No bags, I mean no bags!!, we need no bags, remember were leaving with an engine boat so no weighty objects.
Alasane
I can carry along my necklace at least. It’s spiritual.
Man
You can.
Cut to.
At mid night the adventurers leave in an engine boat singing songs of victory, there suddenly surprised with a patrol boats moving at the rear back
Tchombe
We’ve been caught, look!!! That’s an engine boat coming!!.
Boy 1
The coast guards are coming let’s move faster.
Alasane
Damn!!, this is shit.
The adventurers exchange gun shots with the coast guards, many of the adventurers are victims of the raid.
Coast guard
You’all are under arrest(speaking in Spanish)
Coast guard
Chain all the monkeys( Spanish)
Tchombe is caught to gether with alasane and malik, they’re kept in a coastal prson together with their resisting crew, mike forms a non-governmental organisation in Nigeria to fight against clandestine immigration
THE END. |
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