The Pythons - Script

SCENE 3: THE AUDITORIUM

SCENE 3: THE AUDITORIUM

( The RECRUITS and the PUPILS are shown sitting organised in straight, clean lines, with MASTERS standing at both sides of each line. Above and hidden, HAYDEN waits, patiently. TANIKA enters formally.)

TANIKA

Hello, sir.

HAYDEN

What took you so long?

TANIKA

The recruits were unkempt when I walked in, so it took some time to get them situated.

HAYDEN

You realise that this reflects on you poorly.

TANIKA

Yes sir, I do.

HAYDEN

Very well then. Stand proud apprentice, the presentation is beginning.

(TANIKA stands like a soldier as she and HAYDEN are revealed to the audience, as cheers erupt. With a move of his hand, HAYDEN silences the audience.)

HAYDEN

Welcome, all. It is with great pleasure that I speak to you all here today, for we celebrate a momentous occasion. As you all know, a group of powerful outsiders have been foiling our plans, disregarding our religion and plotting against the Python.

(The crowd erupts in boos, HAYDEN quickly shushing them.)

Until now, we have had no luck in stopping them. However, the masters have had a breakthrough, and we are ready to fight back! We will be sending in one of our top spies to kill these so called "politicians". She will bring honour to our entire organisation. So, without further adieu, please allow me to introduce:

My own apprentice!

(The crowd erupts in cheers as a spotlight is placed on TANIKA. She backs away, shocked and afraid.)

TANIKA

W-what?!

HAYDEN

Stand proud, apprentice. Now!

(TANIKA reluctantly resumes her position and the crowd continues. )

HAYDEN

Thank you all and goodnight!

(The two are once again hidden from the audience, and HAYDEN takes this opportunity to push TANIKA up against the wall in anger.)

HAYDEN

What the hell, Tanika? You ruined my entire announcement? How dare you cower away in fear, when you've been given such an honour?

(In a fit of bravery, TANIKA responds)

TANIKA

Honour? Honour? This assignment isn't an honour, it's a death sentence! I never asked for this! I never wanted this! If you had even mentioned it to me before hand, I might have been able to put on a brave face for the announcement - but you couldn't even do that! Of course, I wouldn't expect you to; you don't think about anyone but yourself!

(TANIKA pushes past HAYDEN in anger and storms off. HAYDEN is taken aback.)

HAYDEN

Oh she is so dead.

(HAYDEN walks offstage after TANIKA as the audience exits.)