Killdozer

I got the PETER ROTTENTAIL DVD in the mail from Mark Polonia yesterday. Another solid authoring effort, with a trailer, two commentary tracks, and some interviews. Neat menus, and the picture and sound was very sharp. I felt bad because I was ill when I did my commentary track, but when I listened to a bit of it last night it wasn't as bad as I feared, but I'm not as interesting as I hoped. The masses will have to judge.

As promised, I'll try to wrap up my b-fantasy sword and sorcery epic RING OF THE SORCERESS/SWORD OF THE ZOMBIE/DOOMED SWORD RISING over the next few days. Meanwhile, back in the castle...

CUT TO:
INT. CASTLE EBON (QUEEN'S CHAMBERS) -- MOMENTS LATER
Esme stares boldly at an ill-at-ease Boris. Peryl meets her stare.
ESME
So, Sir Boris...my son the prince left you here to guard me. From what, I wonder? I fear nothing and no one in my castle or kingdom.
BORIS
It is not for me to say, m'lady.
ESME
Tis true. Deeds, not words. You were raised as good Sir Nicholai's son and squire, and serve the kingdom with honor. Then as I fear no harm and need no guard you can be released from the prince's bidding to do mine own.
(beat)
Slay this woman who affronts my gaze.
Boris is clearly conflicted. The moment is suspended. But the silence is shattered when Desmond bursts into the room, grasping his bloodied midsection.
DESMOND
MY QUEEN!
ESME
You dare!
Desmond falls to his knees.
DESMOND
My queen, the promise...my hour grows short, and I need your promise...
Boris and Peryl stare at Esme.
ESME
I cannot honor that promise now.
DESMOND
My lady, I have done your bidding in exchange for life eternal! Life in the new king's court! The things I have done, my queen!
ESME
The things you have done will give you cold comfort in the next world.
Esme's ring FLASHES with fire, and Desmond disappears in a WASH OF FLAME, his skeleton etched in black for one harsh moment.
Boris looks on with an arched brow, Peryl looks on with dismay, as smoke wafts from the scorched spot where the aide once stood. Boris turns slowly to the queen.
BORIS
Life eternal. I have been given no such promise in exchange for my service.
ESME
None is needed for the loyalty of my Silent Guard.
BORIS
The queen speaks truly. But what is this gift?
ESME
From our friends beyond the sea. No more need to be known.
BORIS
That also is true. I have learned much of their gifts and care for them not.
ESME
You speak boldly to your queen. But be that as it may, finish the task set before thee.
Boris stares at Peryl, then draws his sword, crouched in a killing stance.
PERYL
A last request, sir knight. Answer me one question.
BORIS
Ask it...while you can.
PERYL
Do you believe that the one standing before you is the true queen?
Boris falters.
PERYL (CONT'D)
Was your queen this youthful...was she this evil? Did she display these unnatural powers? Or is this in fact another, wearing her skin as a cloak?
ESME
(through gritted teeth)
Your skin will be my cloak, witch.
Boris grips the sword harder.
ESME (CONT'D)
(suddenly cooing)
The gift of eternal life will be your reward as well, Sir Boris. It was foolish not to offer it before. Captain of my eternal guard.
Boris doesn't move an inch.
PERYL
(prompting)
Sir Boris, an answer?
ESME
(raging)
Boris!
Boris still doesn't move.

Give me a yell at johnoakdalton@hotmail.com.