Amended Pilehan - 12pm 10th March

1 SCENE 1

Setting:

We are at the town square. People are dressed like it wasin the 70s but the scene seems like its taking place inan older time. Theres a medium-sized apple tree in themiddle of the stage. The tree is in a small enclosure.

At rise:

REMY is standing in front of the tree having his phototaken. Theres a photographer, and theres a crowdgathering around behind and beside the photographer.

ROGAYAH the town shaman and her daughter SALMAH is amongthe crowd. REMYs son SAZALI is present as well.

In a corner, HAJI MUSA and his entourage are standing.

The atmosphere is jubilant. Everyone seems to becelebrating.

There is an EMCEE is leading the ceremony.

The camera flashes and the crowd cheers.

EMCEE(clears his throat)

Thank you to the officialphotographer.

Now, thats the end of theofficial photo ceremony - let usproceed with the mayorsappointment.

I hereby welcome HAJI MUSA toofficially appoint REMY as thenew guardian of the sacred tree.

HAJI MUSA(HAJI MUSA slowly walkstowards the tree, togetherwith his two guards)

My dear REMY, the members of thecouncil have agreed to choose youto become the next guardian.

Now listen carefully.(clears throat)

REMY, as the new guardian of thetree, you will be entrusted withthe keys to the enclosure.

You will carry on your duty asguardian, making sure that no one

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 2.

HAJI MUSAwithout an official order from myoffice shall enter the enclosure.

You must remember, the tree isnot to be trimmed, cut or eventouched - for the special powerswill affect the prosperity of ourtown.

You shall report any suspiciousactivities to my office, andactions will be takenaccordingly.

EMCEEREMY, please assume yourposition.

REMY(stands straight facing HAJIMUSA)

HAJI MUSA(holding a sceptre)

As mayor of Tanjong Pilhan, Ihereby appoint you as theofficial guardian of our sacredtree.

HAJI MUSA touches REMYs shoulders with the sceptre. Hehands over the keys to REMY.

You are now officially theguardian of the sacred tree.

You shall be paid 70 ringgitevery month, and your positionshall be valid until the nextcouncil hearing in five years.

(the crowd cheers and claps)

REMY(bows and take three stepsback, he seems grateful)

Thank you, MAYOR sir, I shall trymy best to serve you and ourcommunity.

With the trust bestowed upon me,I shall do my best to safeguardthe sacred tree.

HAJI MUSAVery well.

I have faith in you.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 3.

HAJI MUSAAnd so does the people - theyafter all are the ones who choseyou.

Make them proud, REMY.

All the best(HAJI MUSA and his officersleave, the people bows as hepasses through as sign ofrespect)

EMCEE(steps slowly to stagecenter)

With that over, that is the endour ceremony today.

(he leaves)

The crowd gathers closer around REMY, some greeting andcongratulating him. Everyone is happy with their newguardian.

ROGAYAH(approaches REMY and shakeshis hand)(he speaks slowly, as thoughhe is always thinking ofwhat to say next)

Congratulations my dear REMY, howare you feeling?

The people of our town are soproud of you.

REMYThank you, SHAMAN ROGAYAH, itfeels unreal but I am happy.

You were the one who firstsuggested for me to try for thisposition.

I couldnt have done this withoutyou.

ROGAYAH(laughs a little)

Its nothing REMY, I know thatyou would be the right guy forthis position, thats why Inominated you.

(serious and intense tone)You are trustworthy and wellrespected and I believe you willdo a very good job.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 4.

Tanjong Pilhan needs someonelike you.

REMY(comical tone)

Dont scare me, ROGAYAH - youmake it as though this is areally hard job!

(small laugh)I will try my best to serve thepeople, dont worry.

ROGAYAHI believe you will.

However my dear REMY, I wouldlike to remind you of somethingimportant.

(looking at the tree,admiring it)

This tree is very special to allof us.

It possesses a magical qualitythat is strong and powerful.

You must realize that you are ina very powerful position.

And remember REMY, with greatpower comes great responsibility.

REMYThank you for the words, ROGAYAHI appreciate it.

ROGAYAHOh, and before I forgot.

I dont think youve met mydaughter SALMAH.

She lives in the area and sheworks the vegetable patch nearbythe tree.

Now where is this girl, she washere moments ago

(looking for SALMAH)

SALMAH appears from behind the crowd. She approaches herfather.

ROGAYAH (contd)There she is.

SALMAH my dear, this is REMY afriend of mine.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (5) 5.

SALMAHAnd the new tree guardian.

Nice to meet you, sir.

REMYNice to meet you, SALMAH.

I believe my son is around yourage.

(spots SAZALI at the otherend of the stage, he pointsat him)

There he is, thats SAZALI.

SALMAH(makes eye contact withSAZALI and smiles)

So I suppose youll be aroundthis area a lot now that yourethe guardian?

ROGAYAH(interrupts)

Yes my dear hell be around,thats why Im introducing him toyou.

I thought maybe he can can checkon you sometime on the patch justto see if everythings alright.

SALMAH(annoyed)

I think I can manage...

REMY(laughing a little)

Im sure your daughter can manageROGAYAH.

However - we can still be friends- yeah?

SALMAHOf course, sir.

I was friends with the lastguardian.

Hes a lovely man.

ROGAYAHIm sure REMY is just aslovely...

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (6) 6.

REMY(jokingly)

I try, ROGAYAH, I try sometimes.

They all laughed.

REMY (contd)I think its time for me to gohome.

My wifes waiting.

ROGAYAHIll see you around then.

SALMAHSee you!

REMY and SAZALI leaves.

BLACKOUT

7.

2 SCENE 2

Setting:

We are at REMYs house. The layout is pretty simple. Wesee a dining table. Some plates and glasses are in thetable.

At rise:

REMYs wife SABARIAH and DAUGHTER MARIA arearranging/preparing the table for dinner.

MARIAIBU, your chicken curry looksgood, I cant wait to have them.

SABARIAHWell, its your fathersfavourite.

MARIAOf course, IBU its his specialday!

Im so proud of him today.

SABARIAH(SABARIAH coughs lightly)

Your father and your brother willbe home soon.

The ceremony should have endedhalf an hour ago.

SAZALI(screaming from a distance)

IBU! MARIA! Were home!(SAZALI and REMY walks in)

SABARIAH(SABARIAH and MARIA bothwalks towards the entrance)

How did everything go, abang?

Im so glad that youre home, meand MARIA have been cooking thewhole day.

REMY(happy tone)

It went well.

The ceremony was great, I evengot to meet HAJI MUSA the mayor.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 8.

MARIA(excited)

Yes, tell us everything about it!

SAZALICalm down will you, little girl.

This is adults stuff, stay away!(shows tongue to MARIA)

MARIA(annoyed)

IBU! Look at him!

Hes so annoying!

Urgh.

REMYCalm down everyone, let us alltalk about it over dinner shallwe?

Everyone heads towards the dining table. Everyone sitsexcept for SABARIAH, shes attending to REMY

REMY (contd)Mmmm. Whats for dinner?

SABARIAH(scooping rice into REMYsplate)

Your favourite of course, chickencurry.

Let me get some for you(SABARIAHs hand areshaking, some of the foodspilled on to the table)

SAZALI(concerned)

Are you okay, IBU?

SABARIAH(trying to brush it off andchanging the topic)

Im fine, Im fine - hey MARIAwhy dont you have some of thechicken too.

MARIAIm good IBU.

IBU - why dont you take a seat.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 9.

SABARIAH(sits)

SAZALI(halfway through chewingfood)

So earlier Ibu, the people wereso happy when Ayah wasofficiated.

MARIADont talk with your mouth full!

SAZALIShut up, MARIA.

Let me tell this to IBU.

So they were clapping andcheering when HAJI MUSA the mayorgave him the keys to the treecompound.

AYAH looked so good and I was soproud of him!

SABARIAH(voice is clear but a littleweak)

Is that so, ABANG?(smiling)

I dont think Ive said this, so- congratulations ABANG - Im soproud of you.

REMYThank you, SABARIAH.

It means a lot to me.(clears throat)

Wheres the water?(jokingly)

Did MARIA forgot to bring overthe water again?

MARIA has her mouth full with food. She smiled sheepishly.

SABARIAHIts alright Ill go get it.

(stands and walks towardsthe kitchen)

The family continues to eat while SABARIAH went to get apitcher of water.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 10.

SAZALIThe chicken curry is really good.

REMYOf course, its your mothers!

I married her for a reason.

MARIAI think you made the rightchoice, AYAH.

Look at me, the prettiest in ourfamily.

I look juuuust like IBU.REMY smiles. SAZALI makes a face showing disgust towardsher sister.

SABARIAH walks in with a pitcher in her hand. Halfwaythrough she stops. She coughs and puts her hand on herchest, looking as if shes in pain.

She dropped the pitcher of water on the floor.

REMY(stood up and walks towardsSABARIAH)

SABARIAH!

Before REMY gets to her, SABARIAH faints and fell on thefloor. The children too quickly ran over to her.

REMY shooks SABARIAH and calls out her name several timesbut shes still unconscious

MARIA(distressed)

AYAH!

REMYMARIA, get your mothers stuff.

SAZALI, get the car ready.

Were taking your mother toSHAMAN ROGAYAH.

TRANSITION

11.

3 SCENE 3

Setting:

ROGAYAHs home. Sparsely decorated. Seating is on thefloor. Witchy stuff is present.

At rise:

ROGAYAH and REMY both on the floor, facing each other.REMY seems distressed.

REMY(stressed tone)

How bad is it ROGAYAH?

Is she going to be fine?

Please, Im worried about her.

ROGAYAH(contemplative)

Your wife...

Her heart isnt very strong atthe moment.

Shes sick, REMY, very sick.

I am very sorry.

REMYBut youre the shaman, you can dosomething to help her?

You can fix it, right?

I remember you cured MAT SENINthe other day, hes well now.

(speech gets faster)And LISA, AH KHAW and HASANAH -theyre all your patients before- theyre okay now?

And LETCHUMY - the wife of MAHESHtoo...

ROGAYAH(cuts REMYs words)

REMY, listen, my dear REMY.

Ive never seen a heart conditionas bad as your wife.

Its amazing, a miracle that shestill held on to this point.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 12.

ROGAYAHWith all the knowledge I have, Ican help lessen her pain andmanage the condition.

Thats the best that I could dofor her now.

REMYManage her condition?

You mean you wont be able tocure her completely?

So she would feel a little betterbut she will still be sick,ROGAYAH?

No, no ROGAYAH.. I cant loseher...

ROGAYAH(takes a deep breath)

REMY, usually I wont tell thisto anyone but.. Youre special.

REMY(confused)

Special?

What do you mean?

ROGAYAH(slowly)

Your wife... she can be cured.

But I will (pause) need yourhelp.

REMY(excitement in his voice)

Help?

Just let me know what you need,ROGAYAH.

I will do anything, I meananything as long as my wife iscured.

What is it that you need?

ROGAYAHI would need for you to bring methree leaves.

(pause)From the sacred tree.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 13.

REMY(unsure)

You... You want me to take leavesfrom the tree?

But... ROGAYAH, the tree issacred.

You know that no one is allowedto touch it.

ROGAYAHI know that.

But you are the guardian.

And you are the only one withaccess to it.

The leaves from the tree... Isknown to be able to cure alldiseases.

REMY(dilemmatic)

But - but ROGAYAH, I would betraythe trust people gave me.

They expect me to guard the tree.

They chose me... As the guardian.

ROGAYAHThat is true my dear REMY.

(touches REMYs shoulders)But think of your wife...

You dont want to lose her dontyou?

She needs you REMY.

Think about it.

REMYBut if anyone found out, itll bethe end of me.

I cant do it ROGAYAH.

I will betray the people and Icant live with this guilt.

ROGAYAH(trying to convince)

Nobody would find out REMY.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 14.

ROGAYAHYoull only do this once...

Everything will be fine.(reverse psychology)

But I understand your concern ifyou dont want to do it.

Its your call, REMY.

Poor SABARIAH, bless her heart.

REMYIll do it ROGAYAH.

SABARIAH needs me and I willregret if anything happens toher.

ROGAYAH(smiling)

You made the right choice.

Bring me the leaves as soon aspossible.

REMYI will.

BLACKOUT

15.

4 SCENE 4

Setting:

Sacred trees compound.

At rise:

REMY is alone, walking slowly towards the tree.

REMY(as he walks slowly)

I have to do this.

I dont want to do it, but i haveto!

What will become of my wife if Idont?

But, what will become of me afterthis?

Oh I dont feel good about this -what if someone sees me?

This isnt right!(stops right in front of thetree, starts talking as tocalm himself down)

Deep breath REMY, deep breath -calm... down...

(taking deep breaths)Im doing this for my wife - formy family.

It will all be fine.

REMY approaches the tree. He closes his eyes and pluckedthe leaves of the tree. He keeps the leaves in his pocket.He looks around, checking if theres anyone.

From the other side of the stage, a guard walks in andapproaches REMY.

REMY tries to keep calm.

GUARD(suspicious tone)

Um - is everything fine, sir?

You seem to be sweating.

REMY(reassuring)

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 16.

REMYEverythings fine.

Im just here doing my usualrounds.

Its the weather I suppose, itsrather hot today...

GUARDWell, if its nothing then Illcarry on.

Have a good day, sir.(he smiles)

REMYYou too.

The guard walks away. sighs in relief. He takes a deepbreath, takes one last look and he walks away.REMY

As REMY disappears from the stage, SALMAH walks in andapproaches the tree.

She noticed something was off with the tree. She stares atthe tree for a moment and walks away.

BLACKOUT

17.

5 SCENE 5

Setting:

SHAMAN ROGAYAHs living room.

At rise:

REMY is sitting in front of ROGAYAH.

REMY(deep breath)

Here it is - Ive got the leavesyou wanted.

(hands over the leaves)This will cure my wife, right?

ROGAYAH(admiring the leaves)

Ah yes.... Yes it will.

Leave it to me and give me sometime to prepare the mixture.

Such beautiful leaves...

ROGAYAH kisses the leaves and keeps one out of the threeleaves.

She performs some magic and mixes up the two leaves withother ingredients.

When done, he presents a bottle to REMY.

ROGAYAH (contd)Here you go, my dear REMY.

This potion that I am holding atthis very moment will cure yourwifes sickness.

When youre home, give this toher immediately.

You will see a difference soon.

She will be healthier andstronger than before.

REMYROGAYAH, I need this to work.

Ive taken the leaves from thesacred tree - betraying the trustand faith of the people.

Ive broken a promise and now I

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 18.

REMYhave to live with this guiltforever.

(remorseful)I promise, I will never do thisever again...

ROGAYAH(trying to convince)

Just like everything else,witchcraft and magic requiresfaith and trust.

You will need to put your trustand faith into this potion for itwork.

Believe in this potion, and yourwife will be cured.

Trust me.

REMYI want to believe - trust me I dobut how can I?

Its made from something thatwasnt meant for me - somethingIve been entrusted to care for.

How do I put faith in somethingthat is wrong and shouldnt bedone in the first place?

ROGAYAH(slowly)

My dear REMY, is it wrong to helpthe ones we love?

So we can see them happy oncemore?

Is it evil when you go an extramile just so that you can seeyour beloved wife smile again?

(dramatic pause)I believe my dear, its even morecruel for us to let our lovedones suffer - when we actuallyhave the power to help.

REMY(sighs)

You are right.

Its selfish of me to think of myposition and reputation when my

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 19.

REMYwife is unwell - when she needsme the most.

I believe Im doing the rightthing and I believe in yourmagic.

Thank you, ROGAYAH.

ROGAYAHThank you for believing in me.

Now go, my dear.

I hope everything will bealright.

REMY gets up and leaves.

ROGAYAH is still sitting on the floor.

SALMAH walks in.

SALMAH(as she walks in)

Mama!

ROGAYAHOh, SALMAH my dear daughter -what a surprise.

(quizzical)What are you doing here - youdont usually visit unless itsFriday?

SALMAHI saw something today Mama, and Ithough Id share it wit you.

Do you have a few minutes?

ROGAYAHWhat is it my dear, is everythingfine?

Have a seat.

SALMAH(sits beside ROGAYAH)

I passed the tree earlier and Inoticed something unusual,something different - as ifsomeone messed around with it.

(seems worried)Hmmm.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 20.

ROGAYAH(clears throat)

Really?

Different... How?

SALMAHI dont know - its as thoughsomeone did something to the tree- it just doesnt look as itwas...

ROGAYAHIm sure its nothing - maybeyoure just tired dear...

SALMAHBut Ma I know the tree well!

I work nearby and I pass throughit every day...

I saw REMY the guardian leavingjust now - did he not sayanything?

ROGAYAHNo he did not my dear and thereis nothing wrong with the tree.

Youre just seeing things.SALMAH

(annoyed and stern voice)But Ma, you have to trust me...

The tree...

ROGAYAH(before SALMAH finishes hersentence)

Thats enough, SALMAH!

Theres nothing wrong and ifthere was the guardian would havesaid something to me.

Youre just too tired of workingSALMAH and you should rest.

SALMAHBut...

ROGAYAHGet to rest my dear - Im busyand I dont have time for allthis nonsense.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (5) 21.

Good night SALMAH.

TRANSITION

22.

6 SCENE 6

Setting:

REMYs house. On one side is REMY and SABARIAHs room.Theres a bed present. On the other side is a lounge area.A two-seater couch is present.

At rise:

SABARIAH is on the bed. REMY walks in and approaches thebed. He looks sad but hopeful.

REMY(slowly)

SABARIAH?

SABARIAH my love.

REMY kneels down beside SABARIAH.

REMY (contd)I was in town earlier and I gotyou you this.

Have a sip, SABARIAH.

SABARIAH(weak voice)

Abang... Where did you get this?

Where did you find the money forthis medicine - did you sellanything?

Oh no...

REMYNo I did not my dear, I just - um- I went to see the mayor - HAJIMUSA - and he asked me to seethis doctor - a good doctor.

He told me that hes paying forthis - hes doing us a favoursince Im the guardian of thetree and all that.

Here, have some of it.

Youll feel better.(REMY hands it over toSABARIAH and she takes a sipand coughs)

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 23.

SABARIAHThats very nice of him.

Im glad that you were chosen asthe guardian Abang - if not foryour position I wouldnt have gotthis medication.

REMY(feeling guilt)

Yes - yes hes a very nice manindeed.

Get some rest alright?

Youll feel better.

SABARIAHThank you Abang.

(SABARIAH goes back tosleep)

REMY walks towards the couch and takes a seat. He looksworried and unsettled - thinking about what he didearlier. SAZALI walks in.

SAZALI(slowly)

AYAH, is everything ok?

REMY(surprised)

Yes, yes - everything is alrightSAZALI.

Its rather late.

Why arent you in bed?

SAZALII know, but I couldnt sleeptonight.

How is IBU?

Is she alright?

REMYYour mother is alright.

Shes resting and she will beokay - I got her somemedications.

SAZALIThats good to hear.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 24.

SAZALIWhere did you get the medicationsfor IBU anyway?

I know we dont have muchmoney...

REMY(defensive)

HAJI MUSA helped me.

You dont have to worry aboutthat - dont think too much,alright?

Why dont get to bed and get somerest.

SAZALIGood night AYAH.

Jake walks back to his room, worried and confused.

BLACKOUT

25.

7 SCENE 7

Setting:

Somewhere in town. Theres people around doing "towny"stuff eg. reading news paper, buying and selling. Howeverpeople seem sad and gloomy.

At rise:

SAZALI just finished talking to a friend. As the friendleft, SALMAH walks in and they saw each other.

SALMAHWell, well - if it isnt SAZALI -the son of our new guardian.

SAZALI(looks happy to see her)

Ha - SALMAH.

Wasnt expecting you here.

SALMAHOh Im just in town to get someerrands done.

SAZALIIm just taking an afternoon walkaround town.

(trying to make small talk)I love taking walks - watchingpeople.

It calms me down, you know...

Hows your day going?

SALMAHIts alright - just a littleannoyed actually.

Everyone seems so rude today forsome reason.

Even the nice lady at the postoffice...

SAZALIHmm... I noticed that too!

Its like somethings notright...

How do I say it.. Its like...

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 26.

SALMAH(finishes SAZALIs sentence)

Somethings off balance?

SAZALIYeah! But I dont know what itis.

Its just been a weird few daysfor me.

(sad tone)IBU is sick and AYAHs beenacting funny...

SALMAHMy mum too!

Yesterday I was telling hersomething about the tree and shejust totally ignored me - Godknows whats wrong with thatwoman.

(realizes that she shouldntbe talking about it)

SAZALIWhat about the tree?

A crazy homeless looking girl, TIMAH comes on stage andstarts laughing hysterically. SALMAH and SAZALI are bothdistracted and was looking at TIMAH.

He approaches SALMAH and SAZALI and asked for some food ormoney using gestures.

TIMAH(sees SALMAH)

SALMAH!(laughs hysterically)

TIMAH wants food, TIMAHhungry...

(rubs tummy)TIMAH, SALMAH, friends!

TIMAH wants food, okay?

Chicken.... Rice!

Please...

SALMAHOh silly TIMAH.

(takes some money and givesit to TIMAH)

Go and get yourself some foodokay, and dont disturb others.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 27.

TIMAH signals with a thumbs up and smiles. She walks awayhappily.

SAZALIErr, you know that girl?

SALMAHThats TIMAH, shes a bit off inthe head, you know.

(points towards her head -crazy sign)

Shes a nice girl though, we callher TRUSTY TIMAH because as crazyas she is - she would never everlie.

SAZALIAh.. Interesting...

Aaaand you were telling me aboutthe tree?

SALMAHOh, um the tree...

SAZALIYeah.

SALMAHWell I just noticed it lookeddifferent - like its beentouched or disturbed.

I dont know...

SAZALIOh? Thats odd.

No one has access to it exceptAYAH.

Hmmm.

SALMAH(feels uncomfortable talkingabout the tree)

Maybe Im just seeing things - Idont know...

Just forget about it.

SAZALIOkay...

(checks his watch)Hey SALMAH, I need to go alright.

Its my turn to wait on IBU,

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 28.

SAZALIMARIA is going for her tuitionclass soon.

SALMAHOh alright then.

Its nice catching up, see you!(smiling)

They part ways.

BLACKOUT

29.

8 SCENE 8

Setting:

REMYs house. Bed is present.

At rise:

SABARIAH sleeping on the bed. MARIA and SAZALI are bothbeside SABARIAH, worried and in unrest.

REMY walks in.

REMY(in distress)

SAZALI? MARIA?

Where are you?

Is everything fine?

MARIAAYAH - its IBU, AYAH!

REMY quickly heads towards SABARIAH and his children

SAZALI(stressful)

IBU is unconscious AYAH, her headfeels hot - shes unwell.

REMY(stern)

SAZALI, MARIA - both of you,stay.

I will go and get some help.

The siblings nodded.

REMY marches his way out.

TRANSITION

30.

9 SCENE 9

Setting:

ROGAYAHs house.

At rise:

ROGAYAH is standing. REMY marches in.

REMY(angry)

You lied to me - you dirty oldwitch - you lied to me!

Shes unconscious and her body -its boiling!

You said she would be fine - but,but now shes worse!

ROGAYAH(looks at REMY and speaksslowly)

My dear REMY...

Wont you calm donwn and listento me.

(making up things)I - I know why is she that way.

The leaves - um - the leaves...

Theyre very... Hot, heaty innature.

It helps killing the disease, it,um, its fighting the disease mydear...

(smile)I suppose her body is too weakand she cant handle it.

I knew its a little too much butshe needed it - she needed theleaves to cure her heart...

REMY(annoyed)

Cure?

What are you talking about -shes suffering ROGAYAH!

My wife, shes suffering!(sad)

I cant lose her.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 31.

Not after what Ive done...

ROGAYAH(looks at REMY in the eye)

The fruit.

REMY(confused)

Fruit?

ROGAYAHYes, the fruit!

REMYWhat are you talking aboutROGAYAH?

ROGAYAHThe fruit from the forbiddentree.

My teacher, the Great Nujum PakBelalang - bless his soul - he,he once told me...

REMY(cuts ROGAYAHs line)

Told you what?

ROGAYAHThe leaves are the cure, but thefruit is the nourishment for thebody when its sick.

While shes healing she will needa lot of energy to help her -help the medicine work.

The fruit - the fruit will helpher REMY.

REMY(cant believe what hesheard)

You - you want me to get thefruit from the tree now?

Are you insane?

Ive already broken a rule andnow you want me to do it again?

No no ROGAYAH - no.

You said I was gonna do it onetime - Im not doing it again!

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 32.

ROGAYAH(takes a deep breath andsighed)

REMY, my dear.

SABARIAH - I, I underestimatedher condition.

(looks sorry)I didnt expect that she couldnthandle the cure - I didnt.

For that, I apologize.

But we can fix this - go get onefruit and just give, um - half ofit to her.

She will be fine...

I promise you.

REMY(in a dilemma)

I... I...(heavy breathing)

ROGAYAH...

ROGAYAH(persuading REMY)

Think of your wife.

What will happen of your childrenif she goes away?

Will you be able to forgiveyourself if you dont help her?

You had the choice, but you chosenot to do it...

REMY(close his eyes and takes adeep breath)

Ill do it.

ROGAYAH(happy)

I know you had it in you - yourea good man.

Go - and give half of it to yourwife.

REMYAnd the other half?

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 33.

ROGAYAH(sly look)

You bring it to me...

BLACKOUT

34.

10 SCENE 10

Setting:

The tree compound.

REMY walks towards the tree. He stares at the tree andlooks around. When hes sure no one is around, he plucks afruit from the tree. He takes admires the fruit for asecond, before hiding it in his pocket.

He walks away towards the other end of the stage.

TIMAH peeps out from behind the tree, looking confused.

Just before REMY leaves the stage, TIMAH shouts.

TIMAHHey!

BLACKOUT

35.

11 SCENE 11

Setting:

ROGAYAHs house.

At rise:

REMY looking worried waiting for ROGAYAH to walk in.ROGAYAH walks into the scene.

ROGAYAH(trying to be careful)

Oh, REMY...

Youre here!

Wasnt expecting you to be hereso quick my dear...

Have you given the half to yourwife?

And the rest - you have it withyou?

REMY(worried)

Yes - Ive given it to her andyes - heres the other half

(passes ROGAYAH the fruit -she takes it and )

But thats not my biggest worrynow...

ROGAYAH Im - Im in trouble...

I need your help!

ROGAYAH(gets angry for a moment butkeeps herself composed)

WHAT - what is it again thistime, my dear REMY?

REMY(looks around before tellingROGAYAH)

Someone - someone saw me takingthe fruit...

Someone knows what Ive done -Im doomed!

ROGAYAH(surprised)

Someone saw you?

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 36.

REMY(devastated)

Yes - yes someone saw me -ROGAYAH what if Im reported?

Im ruined - Im ruined ROGAYAH.

Theyll know that Ive betrayedthem...

(paces around)Oh this is not happening.

And HAJI MUSA will find out too,oh no, I dont even want toimagine...

ROGAYAH(cuts REMYs line, )

I know what you can do - I have asolution, dont you worry REMY.

Im ROGAYAH - the renowned SHAMANof Tanjong Pilhan - I have myways.

(she laughs a little)You just have to make use of whatyou have - utilize, exploit andtake advantage of it and youllbe able to fix this situation!

REMY(confused)

What I have?

What is it that I have ROGAYAH?(thinks for a second)

No - no, Im not going back tothe tree...

ROGAYAHDont be silly!

You have power, remember?

You, are the guardian of thetree.

You have direct access to themayors office!

Just tell HAJI MUSA or the guardsto arrest this person - youll besafe!

REMYBut - but I would have to lieagain?

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 37.

I would have to betray them allonce more?

I have sinned once, I dont thinkthat I could do it again,ROGAYAH.

I dont think I should do it!

ROGAYAH(annoyed)

My dear, youre not exactly in aposition where you have a lot ofchoice - do you?

(trying to convince)Look, there is no turning back.

You have done what shouldnt bedone and now you must do what youhave to do to clean up this mess.

REMY(takes a deep breath andlets out a long sigh)

So what exactly are you asking meto do - tell me ROGAYAH.

Im torn...

ROGAYAHThis is eaxctly what you will do.

You will head to the MAYORsoffice and you will tell themthat this person have beentrespassing - or better - hastried to mess about the tree.

Tell them that you need thisperson locked away for the safetyof the tree - and for the safetyof Tanjong Pilhan!

(slow talk)Look, I know this isnt easy foryou but think about what willhappen if the word goes around?You dont want that to happen -do you?

REMYI suppose youre right. I dontwant myself and my familysreputation to be smeared becauseof something that I did - and Idid it with a good reason!

(convincing himself thatwhat he did was okay)

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 38.

REMYIm just doing what everybodyelse would do to save the life oftheir loved ones - right ROGAYAH?

ROGAYAH(happy as she managed toconvince REMY)

You are so right my dear, theresno shame in sacrificing forsomeone you care for.

Now go - you dont have much timeleft.

REMYI will head to the mayors officeright now - thank you ROGAYAH

REMY leaves the stage. When he left, ROGAYAH takes out thefruit to admire it once more.

TRANSITION

39.

12 SCENE 12

Setting:

Town.

At rise:

SAZALI and SALMAH both standing up, looking gloomy.Theres some town people in the background.

SAZALI(solemn)

I dont know SALMAH, my mumdoesnt seem to be getting anybetter.

Shes holding on, but shes stillsick - nothings changed much.

My father gave her somemedications but I dont know ifits working...

SALMAH(realises something)

It must be from my mother!

The medications I mean, I sawyour father leaving my house theother day when I was on my wayhome...

SAZALI(confused)

Thats odd?!

Because I remember that he toldus that it was from some doctorthe MAYOR reccomended him...

Hmmm.

Two guards walk from the end of the stage, holding TIMAHshand behind her. She seems to struggle. Everybodysattention is on TIMAH.

SAZALI and SALMAH retreats to a corner with the otherpeople on stage.

TIMAH(screaming)

He took fruit!

TIMAH see he took fruit!

Let go!

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 40.

GUARD(stern tone)

Will you just shut it - welltalk more in the office

Now can you just walk faster?!This crazy girl.

TIMAH screams as they pass through the stage andeventually three of them leaves the stage.

SAZALIIsnt that TIMAH - the girl wemet the other day?

What is she talking about?

GUY 1(interrupts)

Havent you heard?

It was the guardian.

He took the fruit from the treeand now that poor girl isarrested because shes beentelling others about it!

GUY 2Thats a vile thing to do!

Taking the fruits?

Hes the guardian for Gods sake- he must be stopped!

And we know we believe that TIMAHgirl - she never ever lies!

SAZALI is in shock. Hes out of words.

SALMAH(trying to be careful)

Are you - are you okay, SAZALI?

SAZALI(still in shock)

I, I need to go SALMAH.

Im sorry but I need to go.

SAZALI leaves.

TRANSITION

41.

13 SCENE 13

Setting:

REMYs house.

At rise:

SAZALI on the couch, looking sullen. REMY walks in.

REMYIm home - SAZALI??

Whats wrong?

SAZALI(sarcastic tone)

So good of you to ask AYAH. Youdidnt know?

REMYWhat - what is going on SAZALI?

Tell me!

SAZALIIBU - IBU is gone.

She has passed away, AYAH.

REMY was in deep shock and fell to his knees

REMY(anxious)

Where is she now - let me, let mego see her.

Shes in the room?

SAZALI(stops REMY)

Wait, you wanna see her? Afterall youve done?

Huh, I cant believe you, AYAH.

REMY(confused)

What are you talking about?

SAZALI(holding back anger)

IBU was greatly ill.

The so-called medication that yougot from the supposed doctordidnt help at all.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 42.

She was strong for a second, andwas completely ill again.

But you didnt care, did you?(sarcastic tone)

So busy with your work, takingcare of the tree.

REMYI did everything I can to helpher!

SAZALI(scoffs)

You plucked the fruit from theforbidden tree!

The tree that youre supposed toprotect - you think that wouldvehelped her?

REMYBut - but the shaman - ROGAYAHshe told me it would help!

I was desperate to help my wife -your mother!

SAZALIIts a sacred tree AYAH!

Youre not supposed to touch itfor a reason!

And - and now youre asking theguards to arrest people at yourwill?

(stares at REMY)Do I even know you anymore?

REMY(pauses for a moment)

Who - who told you that?

SAZALIEveryones talking about it.

The truth will come outeventually AYAH.

(raises his voice)Had you not do stupid things likethis IBU would still be alive.

This is all your fault!

I cant - I cant take all thisanymore.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 43.

Im leaving.

REMY(stressed)

Where - where are you going - andyour mother - whos taking careof everything right now?

Please SAZALI, I lost your motherI cant lose my son too.

SAZALIMARIA and the villagers tookcare of IBU - the funeral istonight but I dont expect you tobe there.

Thanks, for everything.

SAZALI leaves. REMY sits down in remorse. He broke down intears.

Out of nowhere two guards came in. REMY is surprised.

GUARD(serious)

Sorry to interrupt, sir - but wehave orders from the MAYORsoffice.

You need to come with us.

REMYRight now?

GUARDIm afraid so, sir.

They all leave.

44.

14 SCENE 14

Setting:

Mayors office. Theres a writing desk and a chair.

At rise:

ROGAYAH is in the room. REMY is brought in with the twoguards.

GUARDYou can wait here for a moment.

The guards leave. REMY looks at ROGAYAH in disgust.

ROGAYAH(sarcastic)

Oh what a surprise - wasntexpecting you here.

REMY(lost all hope)

Oh cut the crap ROGAYAH.

SABARIAH,(clears throat)

shes gone now.

And no, whatever you gave her didnot work.

ROGAYAHOh no my dear, Im so sorry...

REMYIts okay ROGAYAH.

All I did, everything was fornothing.

She was meant to die.

Nothing could have stopped it -not you, not me, not the tree...

HAJI MUSA walks in

HAJI MUSAThe tree?

What about the tree, REMY?

REMYUm, the tree...

(long sigh)I, I dont know how do I begin...

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 45.

HAJI MUSAYou know why you two are here, Isuppose?

Someone told me about what youdid.

(looks at ROGAYAH)And you, your daughter came byand said you know something thatwould be helpful.

ROGAYAH(panic)

Me? Oh sir, I dont know what areyou talking about!

I, I have nothing to do withthis!

My daughter - she, she must beconfused!

REMY realizes that ROGAYAH has been tricking him.

HAJI MUSADo you want to tell me, REMY.

Of what actually happened?

REMYMy wife - SABARIAH, got ill.

I was desperate - I wanted her tobe well again.

So I seek help from her - shetold me she would help if I wasin any trouble...

She, she told me that my wifewill be cured if she can makepotions from the leaves and thefruits of the tree...

ROGAYAH(defensive)

I told you it was an option!

Options are choices, OP-TIO-NAL.

You can choose your options, andhe chose the tree.

It wasnt me who took the leaves,I never asked him to - he did ithimself!

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 46.

REMY(remorseful)

I wanted my wife to be well, sir.

Wouldnt you do all you can tosee your loved one happy again?

I betrayed your trust - the trustof the people of TanjongPilhan too.

I suppose my wifes death,SABARIAHs death is what Ideserve.

A painful lesson...

ROGAYAH(interrupts)

She was a nice lady, may her restin peace.

HAJI MUSA(looks at ROGAYAH for amoment before continuing)

I was just surprised that it wasyou, I thought highly of you,REMY.

But I understand, you did whatyou did because you think itsfor a good reason.

But I still need you to step downfrom the role - for you havebreached the biggest rule of themall - you touched the tree.

REMYI understand that, sir.

HAJI MUSAYou may leave, REMY.

REMY leaves.

HAJI MUSA (contd)(turns to ROGAYAH)

Well well, ROGAYAH.

You saw a vulnerable man in needof help and you tricked him.

And you lied to me - you said youhad nothing to do with all this!

Youve always been so obsessed

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (4) 47.

HAJI MUSAwith the tree - Im notsurprised.

ROGAYAH(laughs)

You can say anything you want -you dont have proof that I didanything wrong.

If anyone should be arrested,its him!

That crazy girl saw him pluckingthe fruit, not me.

GUARDS enter and interrupts.

GUARD(clears throat)

Sir, Im sorry to interrupt but Ineed to tell you somethingimportant - we have found newevidence.

HAJI MUSAWhat is it?

GUARD(shows the leaves and fruitfrom the tree)

We have found these in ROGAYAHshouse.

Theyre from the tree, sir.

SALMAH walks into the scene

SALMAH(loudly)

They didnt find it, I gave it tothem.

ROGAYAH(gets up)

SALMAH!

How dare you betray me, I am yourmother!

ROGAYAH gets up, she tries to attack SALMAH.

HAJI MUSAGUARDS! Arrest this crazy woman!

They arrest ROGAYAH.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (5) 48.

SALMAH(gets close to her mother)

For everything youve done, Iwill never ever trust you again.

SALMAH touches ROGAYAHs face and kisses her on the cheek,and she leaves.

ROGAYAH(struggling)

Urgh, let me go!

Get your dirty hands off me youpeasants!

This isnt the end - I will curseall of you - my leaves, mybeautiful leaves from my precioustree!

The guards take ROGAYAH away.

BLACKOUT

49.

15 SCENE 15

SETTING: We are in front of the small enclosure where the

forbidden tree is bounded.

AT RISE: REMY walks in despair while holding a large knifein his

right hand.

REMY(kneels and puts his handsover his chest)

Oh God!

What can I do to wipe away my sinother than humbly confess andlament them?

(crying as he starts cuttingthe tree)

Oh Lord, I implore Your mercyendlessly!

(cutting the treevigorously)

I have nothing in this worldexcept you to share my happinessand sorrow.

(finish cutting the tree)I dug my own grave now I trulyseek your forgiveness.

REMY kneels, ready to take his own life. MARIA runs intothe scene.

MARIA(screaming)

AYAH! Dont!

REMY(screaming in sorrow)

MARIA!

Stay away!

MARIA(runs to REMY and grabsknife)

But, AYAH - dont do this!

Yes, yes youve done bad thingsbut that doesnt make you a badperson, AYAH.

Please..

While struggling for the knife REMY accidentally stabbedMARIA.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (2) 50.

MARIA is hurt, falls down and whimpers.

REMY(realized that hurt MARIA)

MARIA!

Oh no, Im so sorry my dear Ididnt mean to hurt you.

(put his daughters head onhis lap while crying)

Im sorry MARIA.

Please dont leave me, Ive lostyour mother - your brother leftme and now, now...

What have I done MARIA - Imsorry, Im so sorry..

MARIA is frightened of her father. She crawls away.

MARIAYou - you... Monster!

Who are you?!

You, you are not my father!(screaming)

A monster!

MARIA disappears from stage.

REMYMARIA!!!

REMY cries and he drops down on his knees. The mood seemsnaturally fretful and grim. He gets up and starts walkingslowly, REMY faces the audience and recites the poem.

REMY (contd)(recites poem))

Here I walk with torturedthoughts,

Regretting the moments I took forgranted,

Moments when I was eaten by prideand selfishness.

The word "OBEY" slowly kills meinside,

Betraying the trust bestowed uponme,

For the people whom I loved,

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: (3) 51.

Thoughts of helping but it turnsto a sharp blade that cut woundsmore deeper and left me insorrow.

END