A screenplay written way back in 1997. As I have not had the time to rework it, I think it is poor in construction, treatment, grammar and spelling but nonetheless still believe it is a subject worthy of this site. My apologies for the non-standard formatting, an imposition of my beggarly knowledge of html.
FADE IN:
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
CAPTION: NOVEMBER 2062
VOICE (V.O)
In the second decade of the twenty
first century, after the day of
poison, human population, within
one month, fell to an estimated
550 million. It took ten years to
dispose of the dead. It took twelve
years for order to be reestablished
in Europe and the States.
But the stability was immature. By
2032, this fledgling, utopian world,
out of economic necessity, was
classifying people as either inferior
or superior. Supporters called it
natural law though others called it by
an older name - slavery. Although not
legal everywhere, it became commonplace
for its ability to solve difficult
social and financial problems. After
2040, what began as servants, later
became poorly paid labour then “labour
to exist” or slaves. Slaves chose
this route by applying for an A of S.
An Acceptance of Slavery contract.
Then they were able to be legally
bought and sold. A slave can be
granted a D and F - Deliverance of
Freedom at any time. Reasons for
choosing this way of life are many
but laziness, old age or disability
are some. Most slaves are treated and
fed well and many are happy with their
lives.
Two, middle-aged women, LILITH and VIPER play chess on the tattooed back of DOG, a man in his forties. He only wears a short leather skirt and a collar and a lead and is on his hands and knees between the two women.
Next to Lilith is a dog called PATTY which she strokes.
In a dark corner is an old woman, HOLLY who sleeps. At her feet sits BIRK, an old semi-naked man.
LILITH
Do you still want that bible?
VIPER
Yes.
LILITH
Is this a getting older thing?
VIPER
Who knows?
Viper taps the head of Dog.
VIPER (cont)
Keep still!
DOG
Sorry Mistress Viper.
LILITH
Keep your back straight. . .level.
DOG
Yes Mistress Lilith. Sorry Mistress
Lilith.
LILITH
Sorry won’t be a word I use if you
tip the pieces over.
DOG
Yes Mistress Lilith. Sorry Mistress
Lilith.
VIPER
He’s fading you know.
Lilith smears Dog’s tattoo of the chessboard.
LILITH
Yes. Let’s call in Ouch and get it
reworked. Dog? When was this done?
DOG
About fourteen years ago Mistress
Lilith.
VIPER
Perhaps in different colours this
time?
LILITH
Red and blue!
VIPER
Yellow and green!
LILITH
We’re have you looking like a circus
Dog. You’re be the most colourfully
tattooed slave ever!
DOG
Yes Mistress Lilith.
VIPER
Actually Lil, I’m getting a headache
with all this thinking. You win anyway.
LILITH
Shall we go to Complex?
VIPER
See you in there.
LILITH
Dog, feed Patty and make sure the
room is prepared for tomorrow.
The women leave Dog to shake off the chess pieces and gather them up. As he walks away, holding Patty, he rubs his back.
INT. A DARKENED ROOM - NIGHT
Viper joins Lilith before a short metal tower.
VIPER
Hi Complex.
(To Lilith)
Are you on?
LILITH
Not yet. It’s busy tonight. Oh,
here we go. Quick.
The women lay back in comfortable chairs and several bright lights strike them. Within seconds their eyes close and they both gasp in delight.
INT. LARGE KITCHEN - NIGHT
Dog joins two young woman, PILL and POT and prepares Patty’s food.
DOG
Hi Pill. Hi Pot.
Patty sits obediently at his feet watching him.
PILL
She only loves you because you feed
her.
DOG
That’s not true is it Patty? Nooo!
Dog holds up a scrap of meat.
DOG
What do you do Patty? Beg! Go on!
POT
If she catches you doing that, she’ll
whack you stupid.
Patty begs.
DOG
There. Good girl!
The meat is dropped and Patty pounces on it.
DOG
I’ve seen her angry before and I’ve
survived.
PILL
What are they doing?
DOG
Railing. They’re be on for the rest
of the night. About time you two
disappeared isn't’t it?
POT
Not tonight. Extra cooking for
the weekend.
DOG
Going well?
PILL
Of course.
POT
Are they bringing in more help?
DOG
Not paid. Just more slaves. Twenty
I think and not all to serve food.
They’re arriving tomorrow morning.
POT
They’re not using this kitchen. I’m
not having twenty sweaty slaves in
here.
DOG
No, they’re being chained in one of
the barns.
PILL
That’s all right then. But whose
going to feed them?
DOG
An arrangement has been made with an
over Mistress. She’s called The
Predator and she’s feeding them.
PILL
God! I’m keeping out of her way.
Dog, you must be insane. Why don’t
you get your D and F and start afresh?
DOG
Because I have no where else to go.
PILL
So? Nor do millions of others but they
haven’t sold their flesh.
DOG
They wouldn't know what to do without
me.
POT
Oh yeah? Do you know what they’d do
if you left? They’d get another slave.
DOG
They wouldn’t. I’ll see you in the
morning.
INT. A SMALL BEDROOM - NIGHT.
Dog stares at the stars while smoking. A little way off, giant propellers catch the wind. An airship buzzes overhead and his eyes follow it.
DOG
Freedom.
Dog closes the window and from behind a scrap of wallpaper, he pulls out a green note pad from which he takes a faded photograph of a Viper as a younger woman. He kisses it and writes.
DOG
Goodnight Mistress Viper.
Dog chains himself to his own bed and switches off his light.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Lilith, Viper, AGGY and FELL, two more middle-aged women, are taking tea. Dog and three other male slaves stand nearby.
AGGY
So darling, how is your mother?
LILITH
Surviving. The old thing barks orders
from time to time but we don’t pay
notice.
FELL
My boy here called last week
He noticed her gazing out from
one of the towers.
VIPER
Yes, that’s Mother. She’s taken to
look at the woods a lot. I’m having
a guard rail put up.
AGGY
Darling, this tea is exquisite. It
has a flavour quite unknown to me.
LILITH
One of the boys in the village
puts it together. I’ll tell him
to grow you a bag. I call it memorize.
It’s rather expensive but you
always get what you pay for.
AGGY
How quaint but please don’t bother
Lilith. I have so many teas already.
Now, I do so enjoy our Wednesdays
together. It’s never the same when
using Complex, no matter how good
they get it.
VIPER
Oh, you are so right. It has its
uses but I’m old fashioned. I like
to talk face to face. You can’t beat
reality.
Fell snaps her fingers and a TALL MALE SLAVE steps forward and lights a cigarette for her.
AGGY
Why don’t you want your own slave
Lilith?
LILITH
Too much bother looking after them.
I guess I’m too independent. I like
to do things for myself.
AGGY
How quaint.
LILITH
Besides I have my fun.
Lilith nods her head and Dog steps forward.
LILITH
Piss in that plant pot.
VIPER
He will not! That’s my favourite
cactus.
The woman laugh cruelly.
VIPER
He’s my slave. This cup then.
Viper holds it underneath him.
LILITH
(to Dog)
Now would be a good time.
Dog lifts up his leather skirt and fills the cup. The women are delighted.
VIPER
Don’t overfill it! If you piss on
my hand that will be the end for
you. There! Take the cup now.
LILITH
You see ladies, and I don’t have
to worry about procedures or policies.
FELL
You haven’t proved anything Lilith.
Just that you’re a bit mean with
money!
VIPER
I’ve a new trick. Watch. Dog?
Dog steps forward again and kneels. Viper picks up Patty and places her next to Dog then picks up some cake and tosses it on the floor.
VIPER
Go on! Eat it up!
Both Dog and Patty scrabble to eat the cake. The dog wins and Lilith places her foot underneath Dog’s chin.
LILITH
Lucky for you she won Dog.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
A CRY from another part of the house.
VIPER
Ladies, Please stay. That’s mother.
I’ll have to go. Lilith?
LILITH
Your turn. Off you go. Just
follow the string she has tied
around your ankle.
EX. A FIELD - DAY
Lilith and Viper are racing each other in chariots each pulled by 5 men and 5 women. Both women are screaming fanatically as they move towards a finishing line. Dog waves a flag when Viper flies past first.
VIPER
Yes! Whooh, whooh!
Both chariots come to a halt and everyone is breathless.
LILITH
That wasn't fair. You got the fittest
ones. I want a rerun.
A groan ripples around the slaves.
LILITH
Shut up or I’ll take my whip to
you. Line up on your knees scum.
I suggest you keep quiet or the
next five days will be more painful
than you think they are going to be.
The slaves kneel in the thick mud shivering, heads bowed. Lilith and Viper inspect each one. They stop at one MALE SLAVE.
VIPER
What is your name?
MALE SLAVE
Slave Cowper Mistress.
Viper’s riding crop caresses the man’s neck and snaps her fingers. Dog steps forward.
VIPER
I see. All of you. This is Dog.
He will show you where you will
sleep. You will follow him without
talking. Go. Dog, ask Mistress
Predator to join us after she has
rested.
DOG
Yes Mistress Viper.
A SHOUT comes from a way off and a POLICEMAN cycles over to them.
POLICEMAN
Good morning Miss Lilith, Miss
Viper. You know why I’m here.
LILITH
Go on. Get it over with then.
The policeman steps over to the slaves with a recording device and approaches a TALL SLAVE.
POLICEMAN
Are you here by your free will?
TALL SLAVE
I am sir.
POLICEMAN
What is your name?
TALL SLAVE
Slave Baxter B sir.
The policeman moves on to the next who is a WOMAN.
POLICEMAN
Are you here by your free will?
WOMAN
I am sir.
POLICEMAN
What is your name?
WOMAN
Slave Bug sir.
POLICEMAN
The names you people have! Aren't
you cold?
WOMAN
Yes sir.
The Policeman moves to the next.
VIPER
Officer? We’ll be at the house if
you need us. Please remember there’s
something warm for you in the kitchen.
POLICEMAN
Yes madam. Thank you for your
co-operation. I must follow through
the complaints. They were seen and
this is not exactly slavery country
as I’m sure you are aware.
LILITH
I’ll make sure it does not happen
again officer.
Lilith and Viper leave.
VIPER
You are a dirty old woman Lil. You’re
old enough to be that Cowper’s
grandmother.
LILITH
And you wouldn’t?
The two women eye each other before smiling. Joining arms they walk back to the main house.
LILITH
You know, this is going to be our
best birthday ever.
VIPER
We’re only fifty once.
INT. A BARN - DAY
All twenty slaves are clean and standing in a line. Each is recognisable by a number. They wear the minimum amount of clothing. PREDATOR, a tall black woman, dressed entirely in shiny leather, stands before them.
PREDATOR
My reputation is of value tonight.
I come recommended because I command
respect. And I have respect because I
wield power. If any of you becomes a
canker, if anyone fails to please the
guests, I will get personal with you.
Fifteen of you come from the actions
and I haven't had time to regulate you
yet but I will find time.
Predator steps forward and squares off against the only BLACK MAN in the slave group.
PREDATOR
How long have you been with me?
BLACK MAN
Five years Mistress Predator.
PREDATOR
(to the group)
And when he came, he thought his skin
might sway me a little, might ease the
path from free man to slave ism’t
that right?
BLACK MAN
Yes Mistress Predator, I did.
PREDATOR
And did it?
BLACK MAN
No, Mistress Predator, it didn’t.
PREDATOR
That’s right. What happened to you
slave? What did I do?
BLACK MAN
You taught me respect Mistress
Predator.
PREDATOR
Listen to the tone in his voice.
(To the black man)
Put your face on the ground.
Without hesitation, the black man drops to the floor where Predator places her boot on his face and squashes it into the mud.
PREDATOR
And I am fond of this one. I sleep
with this one. Do not let me down.
INT. A HALLWAY - NIGHT
Lilith and Viper are greeting party guests as they arrive. Men and women of all ages. Single and partnered. Some have brought their own personal slaves, both male and female. Dog stands nearby.
Predator hovers in the background and numbered slaves run from room to room fetching refreshments and taking coats.
Lilith motions to Dog and gives him a large red capsule. He moves away.
A tall broad man steps through the front door.
VIPER
Chief Inspector! Oh you said you’d come
and you have.
LILITH
Welcome Inspector.
CHIEF INSPECTOR
Ladies. A happy birthday to the
gentlest yet strictest twins I ever
knew! This is for you.
Two men in uniform step forward and offer each woman a present.
LILITH
I don’t know what to say Inspector.
CHIEF INSPECTOR
Call me Zed. My friends do.
INT. A CUPBOARD - NIGHT
Dog enters and makes himself comfortable then opens a door to reveal a mechanism. He takes the red capsule and enters it into the unit. With a release of gas, a canister fills up and Dog closes the door. He sniffs the air then waves his hand in front of his face.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Lilith, Viper and their guests are drinking and socialising. Dog approaches Lilith.
DOG
It’s done Mistress.
Slaves are collecting food and serving well dressed men and women who take it without a second glance at them. Laughter is heard and wine drunk.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Many guests are staggering slightly and becoming loud. Slaves are being humiliated and degraded in many different ways. Viper has a slave by a chain and drags him away while Dog watches her.
CHIEF INSPECTOR
Is that Smoky Zest I smell?
LILITH
Damn! You can smell it? It’s
supposed to be pure.
CHIEF INSPECTOR
I’ve a nose. Where did you get it?
LILITH
Now Inspector. . .
CHIEF INSPECTOR
Okay but next time call me and I’ll
get you some that’s cleaner.
LILITH
Our number one got it actually. Where
is he?
DOG
I’m here Mistress Lilith.
LILITH
We can smell it! Next time we go into
Gafbel, you’re get my credit back.
DOG
Yes Mistress Lilith, Sorry Mistress
Lilith.
PREDATOR
To the dungeon everyone. Let’s put
these dogs and bitches through their
paces!
INT. A DUNGEON - NIGHT
MONTAGE:
Visitors pour in and within minutes, the room is transformed by the bodies of slaves being beaten, whipped and humiliated. Wine is poured, drugs are smoked and sex begins.
The house becomes alive with debauchery. Dog and Patty are made to chase after the same piece of meat. There are chariot races around the grounds in the dark.
The cries of humans blend with loud music and Viper smacks slave Cowper as he thrusts energetically in and out of her.
Five women drag two naked male slaves into the kitchen and smear them with food. As Pill and Pot retreat into the corner and pretend to work, the women devour the men like lions.
Several men drag a women slave away into a room.
END MONTAGE:
INT. A CUPBOARD - NIGHT
From the cupboard, the gas HISSES then stops.
INT. A DINING ROOM - DAY
Dog is serving Lilith and Viper breakfast. Both have dark glasses on.
Dog ‘chinks’ a cup and gets frowned at.
DOG
Sorry Mistress.
VIPER
God! Fifty! Was it worth it?
LILITH
Best bloody party I’ve had for a
long time.
VIPER
It was good wasn’t it? The Zest worked
didn’t it? Cowper had the cutest
bottom. I’ve still got him chained
to the bed!
LILITH
Hey you!
DOG
Yes Mistress Lilith?
LILITH
I haven’t forgotten about your
buying of the Zest.
DOG
Yes Mistress. I’m sorry Mistress.
VIPER
About what?
LILITH
I’ll tell you later.
Pill enters.
PILL
Your doctor Madam.
Viper takes the call from a mobile unit on the table then frowns.
VIPER
Christ! He says we have to be checked
because we’re fifty!
LILITH
That can’t be right. I thought it took
about a month for that to happen.
VIPER
I’m in at eleven and you at eleven
thirty.
LILITH
Today? Dog? You’re sort that Smoky
Zest out.
DOG
Yes Mistress Lilith.
VIPER
Where’s that manic, Predator?
DOG
Sleeping Mistress Viper.
LILITH
She did a good job.
VIPER
You randy bitch! Well, she should have.
She cost enough. Dog. Get the rest of
her herd up, get them clean and set
them to work. I want to see this place
sparkling when we get home.
DOG
Yes Mistress Viper.
INT. A BEDROOM - DAY
Birk enters and serves breakfast to Holly.
BIRK
That’s it Mistress, up a little
more. It’s your favourite.
HOLLY
Thank God that music has stopped.
BIRK
Yes Mistress. All the guests have
gone.
HOLLY
I bet the slaves are still here
though. My daughters will squeeze
the most out of them. When I was fifty
years old I was still burying and
burning.
BIRK
Yes Mistress.
HOLLY
Prepare a bath.
Birk leaves and Lilith knocks and enters.
LILITH
Hello Mother.
HOLLY
It was too noisy last night. I couldn’t
sleep.
LILITH
Didn’t Birk turn on the shielding?
HOLLY
Of course he did but it was too
loud.
LILITH
Mother, don’t complain, it’s not
every day we have a party.
HOLLY
And that stink came up through
the floor. Evil stuff!
LILITH
I’m sorry about the smell. It was
supposed to be pure but. . .
HOLLY
I don’t know why you needed it.
LILITH
Mother, in your day you had alcohol.
Today we have Smoky Zest. Didn’t
your mother complain about you when
you were young?
HOLLY
You aren't young and if it wasn’t
for me you wouldn’t be this age now.
LILITH
I don’t want to hear the story again
mother. We’re off to the village.
Do you require anything?
HOLLY
Buy a shovel and I’ll show you where
I buried him.
LILITH
I’m going now mother. Goodbye.
HOLLY
I can still smell the Zest.
LILITH
As it has a half life of thirty minutes
I very much doubt that.
Lilith leaves.
HOLLY
(shouting)
Birk? Get me out of this coffin. I’m not
dead yet.
EX. A PATH ALONGSIDE THE STABLES - DAY
Leaves are falling. Lilith meets Viper and they stroll to the stables. Dog is grooming a horse. There is the SOUND of laughter and they catch him blowing a kiss to someone.
LILITH
Dog? Who’s in the stable?
DOG
Oh!
VIPER
You, in there, come out.
FLORRY, a woman in her forties edges into the sunshine.
LILITH
Florry? Are you interested in Dog?
Florry drops to her knees and holds up a small screen.
FLORRY
I’m so sorry Mistress. I shouldn’t
be here but I’ve just bought a list
of the things Pill and Pot need
for the coming week.
LILITH
You never answered me. Are you?
FLORRY
I, I do like him Mistress.
LILITH
Well goodbye to sense!
VIPER
You know the rules Florry.
FLORRY
Yes Mistress. I’m sorry.
VIPER
So you should be. Fraternizing with
my personal slave! Away. I’ll punish
you later.
LILITH
No wait Viper. This is wrong. He
should be punished too. They know the
rules.
VIPER
What do you suggest?
LILITH
(to Dog)
Come here.
Dog drops to his knees and kneels before Lilith.
LILITH
Blowing kisses ah? Well, kiss the
horse.
Dog stands and holds the head of the horse so their noses touch.
Lilith brings her cane down across his shoulders.
LILITH
I won’t tell you again.
Dog kisses the horse’s mouth.
LILITH
Use your tongue! Harder. Get it’s
mouth open. That’s it. It’s the
only female you’re likely to kiss
while I’m alive.
Viper and Florry look away in disgust as Dog suddenly vomits. Lilith and Viper climb aboard their landau. Dog recovers, straps himself into a harness and they move off.
VIPER
You’ve got a streak of dad in you.
LILITH
For goodness sake Lilith. He’s been
with us for twenty five years. He
should know by now.
VIPER
I expect it was innocent.
LILITH
At their age? What do you think?
Nine months from now and there will
be another mouth to feed.
VIPER
You’re just jealous because you
never had a child.
LILITH
Viper, I love you as a sister loves a
sister but sometimes I want to slap
you hard.
EX. A VERANDA - NIGHT
Lilith joins Holly.
LILITH
Evening Mother, did you enjoy dinner?
HOLLY
Are Pill and Pot related?
LILITH
I don’t think so. Why?
HOLLY
Their food tastes the same. Was that
chicken we had?
LILITH
I’m sorry about the party. I’ll get the
shielding adjusted.
HOLLY
I had bad dreams.
LILITH
(angrily)
I’ve told you Mother. Put the cleanser
on and you won’t dream.
HOLLY
I was thinking of having him dug up
and buried properly.
LILITH
Mum, stop. It was 35 years ago. There’s
probably nothing left of him. Let the
bastard go.
HOLLY
I still dream about him though.
LILITH
Then use the bloody cleanser.
HOLLY
That doesn’t make it go away and you
know it.
LILITH
You should erase him from memory.
I’ve forgotten the things he did.
HOLLY
No you haven’t Lilith. No you haven't
at all. There’s a rotten streak a
kilometer long running through you. I
heard what happened at the stables.
LILITH
He deserved it and got off lightly.
Dad would have skinned him.
HOLLY
Your dad was a very cruel man. . .
LILITH
I know! Why are we having this
conversation Mother?
HOLLY
Because I hear and see things which
sicken even me. I know what you do
Lilith.
LILITH
This is rich. From the woman who
once had fifty slaves beaten because
an apple went missing! Have you
had your medicine?
HOLLY
Your father loved you more than
Viper you know.
LILITH
And don’t you think I’ve worked
that out over the years? Don’t you
think I know that? When you smashed
his head in that night and we dropped
him into that pit, dug by Birk, by
the way, how glad do you think I was?
HOLLY
We were all glad.
LILITH
Not as glad as me.
HOLLY
It still troubles me that he’s down
there.
LILITH
And he can stay down there because he
isn't coming up while I’m alive.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Viper sits with her feet up using Dog as a stool. She is speaking into a phone.
VIPER
Thank you Tim. Yes, I’ll tell her.
No, she’s always been the same.
Okay and thanks.
(to Dog)
That was the doctor. We are well.
DOG
That’s good news Mistress.
VIPER
Whatever came over you this morning?
DOG
I’m so sorry Mistress. It just happened.
The sun was shinning and she looked
nice and I just forgot myself.
VIPER
Well, Lilith’s not going to forget.
She’s been told to visit her at
nine tonight and she ism’t in one of
her best moods.
DOG
It wasn’t her fault Mistress. Shall I
go and tell the Mistress that?
VIPER
Dog, you would be safer here with me.
Lift up your back. You’re sagging.
DOG
Yes Mistress. She won’t hurt her
will she?
VIPER
She? She? Who’s she?
DOG
I’m sorry Mistress, I mean the Mistress
won’t hurt her will she?
VIPER
Whether she does or doesn’t is no
concern of yours. You mean nothing
to her and she means nothing to you.
Is that understood?
DOG
Yes Mistress.
INT. A LARGE BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lilith sits writing. A KNOCK sounds.
LILITH
Come.
Florry enters with her head down.
LILITH
Ah, the slut who wishes to ruin my
household. Walk to me.
Florry edges slowly forward and then kneels trembling from head to foot.
LILITH
Do you really understand what a
privilege it is to work here? In a
world where your only use is because
of what you have between your legs,
I have offered you a good position.
You eat my food well enough I fancy and
sleep in one of my beds but that’s
not enough for you.
Florry begins to cry.
LILITH
That doesn’t work with me. How long
have you been with the house?
FLORRY
Seven months Mistress.
LILITH
Seven months and you’d stick a
knife in my back if you could.
FLORRY
No Mistress! I. . .
LILITH
You will be quiet. I should give you
your D and F right now and let the
world take you. You’ve been a slave
how long?
FLORRY
Since my guardian died Mistress.
I was eighteen.
LILITH
Thirty years. You see, I know about
you. I know your cunning and willful
ways. You do know that once I give
you your D and F, you’ll find no one
else to take you in?
FLORRY
Yes Mistress. Please.
LILITH
You’re be dead within three weeks
because who’d want a screw with you?
FLORRY
I’ll do anything Mistress. Please,
I’m so sorry.
Lilith takes down a cane and swishes it about.
LILITH
Perhaps not this time then. Or
maybe if you don’t scream. Pull
down your dress.
Lilith kicks her door closed.
EX. A PATHWAY - DAY
Lilith and Viper are riding horses.
LILITH
I dealt with that slut last night.
One more chance.
VIPER
She wasn’t in the kitchen this
morning.
LILITH
No, not this morning. I’ve given her
a heap of leather to clean.
VIPER
I was thinking of giving Dog his
D and F.
LILITH
No?! It’ll kill him. Where would he
go?
VIPER
I thought we might give him a paying
job. In the grounds perhaps.
LILITH
He’s institutionalized Viper. He’d
do the same work except we’d have to
pay him. What’s brought this on?
VIPER
Last night. He was unhappy about
Florry.
LILITH
Can you hear yourself talking? Since
when did you care about what
slaves thought?
VIPER
I don’t!
LILITH
Okay! I see.
VIPER
He’s been with us for so long Lil
that I thought a little pleasure
wouldn’t go amiss. Especially at
his time of life.
LILITH
He choose his life. This isn’t
ancient Egypt. He can leave anytime
he likes.
VIPER
Now you know that’s not true. What
would he do and where would he go?
LILITH
Freedom comes with a price tag.
VIPER
Can’t you see anyone’s point of view
except yours?
LILITH
What’s there to see? He was a runaway
kid who picked up a scarf for you.
VIPER
And he was still there waiting for me
hours later when I came out. He has
been loyal from the beginning.
LILITH
I don’t know why I’m bothering to
have this conversation Viper. We both
know that you won’t let him go. We both
know that his chosen way of life is
to be subordinate to woman and we both
know that he doesn’t want to go so there.
VIPER
I think then that we should relax the
rules for him. Make her a privilege for
him.
LILITH
So he can fuck her? Over my dead body.
VIPER
What have you against that?
LILITH
Daddy laid down the rules for slaves
in this house.
VIPER
Oh and he knew best didn’t he? I expect
he was thinking of them while he was
beating mum and us senseless.
LILITH
At least you only got beaten.
A pause.
VIPER
I wish I knew where he was buried.
We could destroy the body completely.
LILITH
So she’s been chatting to you as well?
And what will happen if the Jurisdiction
find out? There’s still only the four
of us know. Mum would be put away,
our house, land and credit would
be confiscated and you and I would be
dead within three weeks.
VIPER
Yes, even if we did know I suppose it
would be hard to move with all the eyes
and ears around the place.
LILITH
That’s the most sensible thing you’ve
said all week. Now forget about Dog
as well.
VIPER
Come on Whippy Woman. race you back.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Slaves are putting up Christmas decorations and a huge tree.
Lilith and Viper are relaxing.
LILITH
I do like Christmas y’know. A time
of good will and all that shit.
VIPER
It’s not the same without mum.
LILITH
Yeah. . .true.
VIPER
She wasn’t all that old.
LILITH
Yes she was. She was born in 1970.
Since the collapse, she was lucky to
have lived as long as she did. If it
were’t for her money we would have
died a long time ago too.
VIPER
But to die like that!
LILITH
Yes, that was awful. Everything
got in?
VIPER
Yes, Pill and Pot have been at it
since dawn.
LILITH
I got a card from Birk yesterday.
He’s now living with his sister. Like
I care.
VIPER
He slaved for mum for over fifty years.
Give him a break.
LILITH
Who cares about some old slave?
I don’t. I’m surprised he wrote.
Did you get one?
VIPER
I did thank you and I thought it
was very considerate of him.
LILITH
He didn’t sound considerate when
I gave him his D and F after the
funeral.
VIPER
Well what did you expect him to say?
I expected him to be grouchy.
LILITH
Grouchy! Not in my time and in front
of me.
VIPER
(smiling)
You didn’t have to give him six on
the arse though actually on site.
LILITH
Should have gave him twelve. Nice
little going away present. . .Oh
my God!
VIPER
What!
LILITH
The chief Inspector!
VIPER
What about him? Arriving at one.
LILITH
I forgot to pick up his present.
VIPER
You silly cow! Send someone.
LILITH
I can’t. Briggs will want my scan.
VIPER
Well, you’re have to go then. Dog
will take you.
LILITH
No, too slow. I’ll take Kathy.
EX. AT THE STABLE - DAY
Lilith bolts out of the stable on a horse.
LILITH
Come on girl. That’s it.
EX. A VILLAGE - DAY
Four male youths throw stones breaking windows on an abandoned house.
Lilith gallops into view and pulls up outside a shop near the youths. Tying Kathy to a bar, Lilith enters the shop and the youths move maliciously towards the horse.
INT. INSIDE A SHOP - DAY
Lilith is being served by MR. BRIGGS.
LILITH
I’m so glad I caught you Mr. Briggs.
MR.BRIGGS
Just about Miss Davonport. Just about.
It was ready yesterday and I was surprised
when you never collected it.
LILITH
I don’t know. Getting old that’s
what it is.
MR.BRIGGS
I don’t know about that.
LILITH
Flatterer! There, here’s my scan.
MR.BRIGGS
Thank you so much and a very good
Christmas to you. How are things
at the manor?
LILITH
Quiet at the moment. Having a party
tomorrow. Lots of people coming.
MR.BRIGGS
You know. I’ve never agreed with your
lifestyle Miss Davonport but you and
your sister have always acted as
ladies.
LILITH
Thank you.
MR.BRIGGS
And your mother too of course God
bless her soul.
LILITH
You’re very kind. Now I must get back
Mr. Briggs. Lots to do.
MR.BRIGGS
Of course. Merry Christmas again.
LILITH
And to you. Good bye.
EX. A VILLAGE - DAY
Outside the shop, the four youths are standing next to the horse.
LILITH
You boys. Get away from my horse.
YOUTH ONE
Piss off. I’ll touch it if I want to.
LILITH
You’re move away from her right now if
you know what’s good for you.
YOUTH ONE
What you going to do? Whack me arse?
The boys jeered and Kathy rises up a little.
LILITH
I said move away.
YOUTH TWO
You’re one of the weirdo women. Well
we aren't your slaves.
One of the youths flicks Kathy ear with his finger.
LILITH
You bloody sod. Get away.
Lilith steps towards them but they move and keep the horse between them and her.
YOUTH ONE
What are you going to do?
Lilith inspects Kathy and doesn’t see one of the youths grab her legs from under Kathy belly and she topples to the ground. She lifts herself up immediately and strikes out with her cane, smacking the youth across the face which draws blood.
A knife is brought out by YOUTH TWO.
YOUTH TWO
Get us some credit. Now or the
fucking horse gets slit.
LILITH
Leave her alone. Leave her alone.
The youth stabs the horse’s neck violently and Kathy lets out a terrible screech.
LILITH
Nooooo!
Lilith rushes forward and strikes the youth around the head several times before she collapses. The youths rifle her pockets and flee.
Mr. Briggs comes running from the shop and kneels down beside her.
LILITH
They’ve hurt Kathy Mr. Briggs. Fetch
someone.
MR.BRIGGS
Are you hurt?
LILITH
No. Please help my horse. They’ve cut
her neck. Oh God.
MR.BRIGGS
I’ll get help. Sit there.
Mr. Briggs runs back into his shop and Lilith tries to stand but falls down again. Surprised, she opens her thick coat to find it full of blood and that she has been stabbed herself.
LILITH
Oh! Oh shit!
A second later Lilith falls backwards onto the ground. The horse too, steadily lets herself down as well until the two of them are laying next to each other.
From inside the shop Mr. Briggs is SHOUTING.
MR.BRIGGS (V.O)
Hello? Hello? Send a medic quick.
No, it’s very urgent. No, it can’t
wait.
Lilith’s pale face catches the evening sun. Her breathing slows and her body shakes-then stops.
EX. A GRAVEYARD - DAY
The weather is cold and hard. Viper and her guests attend a service before an open wooden pyre.
From a chair, a crying Viper lights a match and gives it to Dog who torches the pyre. Gently, she nods. The signal for others to step forward and throw flowers into the blaze.
VIPER
My turn next Dog.
DOG
Oh no Mistress. Not you.
VIPER
What will become of you then eh?
DOG
Exactly Mistress.
VIPER
You’re look after Patty now.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
VIPER
The world’s gone very dark now Dog.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
INT. A LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Viper sits staring at nothing. Dog enters with a glass.
DOG
Please Mistress. Just a sip.
Viper takes the drink and brings it to her mouth. She nods and Dog leaves.
INT. A BEDROOM - DAY
Viper enters quietly and closes the door behind her. Slowly she moves to a dressing table and sits at it. Gently she touches some of the things and hangs her head.
She takes a key, unlocks a box and takes papers from it.
INT. A KITCHEN - NIGHT
Viper enters and Dog kneels immediately while Pill and Pot just stop what they are doing.
DOG
Dog, come with me now.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
He runs out after her.
POT
Who’d be a slave?
PILL
Bad enough being a servant.
INT. A HALLWAY - NIGHT
Viper holds a sheet of paper and secretly looks around.
VIPER
This is a map showing where mother
buried papa.
DOG
That was a long time ago Mistress.
VIPER
I want him burnt. I want no trace.
DOG
Yes madam. May I see?
Viper gives a sheet of paper to Dog.
DOG
Pardon me Mistress but perhaps Birk
should be told. He would also know
exactly where since he dug the grave.
VIPER
Do it.
EX. A WOODED AREA - DAY
Viper sits in a chair while Birk and Dog dig.
EX. A WOODED AREA - DAY
A coffin is lifted from the ground.
VIPER
Prepare a fire. We’ll do it tonight.
EX. A WOODED AREA - NIGHT
Viper, DOG and Birk stand by a huge roaring fire. Viper spits on it.
VIPER
And that’s the end of my monster.
Dog, stay until the end and make
sure his ghost doesn’t take revenge
by burning down the bloody wood.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
She begins to walk away but stops.
VIPER
Birk?
BIRK
Yes my Mistress?
A pause.
VIPER
Thank you.
And viper walks on. Birk smiles and looks at Dog.
BIRK
Thank you Mistress.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Dog enters and kneels before Viper.
DOG
Mistress, they’re caught the
boys who killed Mistress Lilith.
They’re not in the system.
VIPER
Better for them. If they had been
slaves, I would be up for murder.
How were they caught?
DOG
The search and replace brigade.
They’ve solved cases now that. . .
VIPER
Yes, all right Dog. We’re talking
about my dead sister. Don’t get so
exited.
DOG
I’m sorry Mistress.
VIPER
Prepare the landau. I’ll go into
the village today.
DOG
I’m so pleased Mistress. Right
away Mistress.
VIPER
You’re like an old hen Dog.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
EX. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Viper sits impatiently waiting. Dog stands to one side. A table is laid for tea. VIPER
Messages were sent?
DOG
Oh yes, Mistress. I sent them myself.
VIPER
Then call them.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
Dog picks up a keypad and presses buttons.
VIPER
No reply Mistress.
DOG
I thought they enjoyed my tea days.
DOG
I’m so sorry Mistress.
Viper walks over to the window, then to a chess set.
VIPER
Do you play?
DOG
I’ve forgotten Mistress.
Viper sits.
VIPER
Nonsense. Kneel down opposite me.
Unhappily, Dog sits and Viper moves first.
VIPER
Your turn.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - DAY
The game continues. Viper watches him.
VIPER
Where were you going that night
at the club?
DOG
Club, Mistress?
VIPER
Don’t play dumb. You know what club.
DOG
Oh, that was a long time ago
Mistress. I think I was looking
for a place to sleep.
VIPER
That was a very gallant thing
you did.
DOG
It changed my life Mistress.
VIPER
So if I hadn’t have chosen you
what would have become of you?
What was it that you wanted to do?
DOG
I’d been drawn to the messenger
services Mistress but I never
had the qualifications.
VIPER
When did you leave school?
DOG
At twelve Mistress.
VIPER
And you never knew your father?
DOG
No Mistress. I understand that he
worked in the old city as a trader
and was wealthy but lost it all
to drink and bad judgement.
VIPER
And your family then?
DOG
All dead Mistress. Mother died alone.
VIPER
She did that to you or was that me?
Dog looks at scars on his arms.
DOG
These were her doing Mistress. They’re
old.
VIPER
In the years you’ve been with me Dog,
I’ve not treated you that badly have
I?
DOG
Oh no Mistress! You’ve always been
fare.
VIPER
Yes I have. Check mate.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
VIPER
I miss Lilith Dog. What am I to do?
DOG
I, I don’t know Mistress.
Viper wipes away a tear. A RING sounds and Dog answers it. He returns with AGGY. Viper stands, delighted.
AGGY
Oh darling, I’m so sorry I’m late.
VIPER
That’s fine Aggy, please sit. Tea?
After pouring, Dog leaves the room after being casually waved away by Viper.
INT. AN IMPOSING DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Viper is weeping openly, watching rain from the window. Dog walks in on her and stands to one side, not knowing what to do. Viper turns and cries into his arms.
VIPER
I can’t seem to get her from my mind.
She was my twin and I miss her. How
am I supposed to live without her?
Dog gently sits her down.
DOG
It will pass.
VIPER
My friends don’t visit anymore.
DOG
Perhaps they feel awkward.
VIPER
But why? How do I do this alone?
DOG
I’m sorry I cannot bring her back.
Dog offers her a cloth to wipe her face.
VIPER
I remember daddy buying slaves from
outside so we could train on them.
It’s not right, her not being here.
Like not having people like you
around. An order has been broken.
My life is ruined. In pieces.
DOG
But life will always go on here.
Mistress Lilith will always be a part
of this house and of you. You are
loved by many people.
VIPER
Oh Dog, thank you. Yes, it’s silly
but I must grieve.
Viper weeps again.
DOG
I’m so sorry Mistress.
VIPER
What?
DOG
I’m so sorry Mistress. I wish
I could help.
Suddenly Viper knocks Dog away.
VIPER
Get on your knees before me. How
dare you get so familiar.
DOG
I’m sorry Mistress.
VIPER
How dare you! Get away from me. Go
and clean a toilet or something. How
dare you try to become my equal! Crawl
away now or I will flog you.
DOG
Yes Mistress. I’m sorry Mistress.
Dog leaves and Viper cries again.
EX. A FIELD IN SPRING - DAY
Viper stops her landau, pulled by two athletic slaves. Dog trots to one side.
VIPER
This will do. Stop.
Viper steps down and Dog extends a chair for her which she sits in.
VIPER
What a glorious spring day.
She points to the slaves.
VIPER
You two. Sit there and be quiet.
Dog, lay out the picnic.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
Viper pulls out a book and begins to write in it.
EX. A FIELD IN SPRING - DAY
Viper stands and walks to a brook nearby. She is enjoying the air and the day.
But she suddenly drops like a stone and Dog runs to her side.
EX. A SMALL SURGICAL ROOM - DAY
Viper awakes and SMETT, a doctor attends to her.
SMETT
Hello Viper. How are we?
VIPER
Where the hell am I? And who are you?
SMETT
You’re at the T. P. C. hospital. I’m
Dr. Smett.
VIPER
I was in my garden. What happened?
SMETT
You collapsed. Your staff bought
you here.
VIPER
I’m alright?
SMETT
I have some ugly news Viper.
VIPER
Why did I faint?
SMETT
You take Smoky Zest I believe?
VIPER
No.
SMETT
Viper. Dog has already confirmed
that you do.
VIPER
I’ll put paid to him when I’m
out.
SMETT
I don’t think you should. He probably
saved your life.
VIPER
Okay, I take Smoky Zest. Everyone
does. It’s harmless.
SMETT
Unless he had told us, we would
not have discovered what is wrong
with you and you would still be
laying face down in the water Viper.
It is not harmless. Tests have
proved that.
VIPER
My sister and I have been taking it
since we were kids doctor. Everyone
takes it.
SMETT
And to most, it seems it is harmless
but not to all. I’m sorry Viper but
you have Piper’s Detachment Syndrome.
VIPER
Oh Jesus! How sure are you?
SMETT
You’ve been here two days and I have
run every available test.
VIPER
Where’s Dog?
SMETT
He’s outside.
VIPER
Let him in.
Dog enters.
VIPER
(to Smett)
Does he know?
SMETT
Yes.
DOG
I’m so sorry Mistress.
VIPER
So this is good. This is happy.
How long do I have?
SMETT
You have to be kept in a protective environment of course and your house
will do. If it is kept flooded with
RB, then expect a year at best.
VIPER
And at worse?
SMETT
Six months. I’m sorry.
VIPER
I want a second opinion.
SMETT
Of course you do. I will arrange it.
VIPER
Can I go home?
SMETT
Soon. I have to make the travelling
arrangements. We need to suffuse the
car with RB. Dog? Will you please
come with me?
Viper waves him away and they leave.
VIPER
So, dear sister. I’m going to meet
you sooner rather than later.
Her hands shake.
INT. A CORRIDOR - DAY
Dog and the doctor talk.
DOG
Will the RB have an effect on
the rest of us?
SMETT
Slightly. Slightly calming. You
must replace the canisters every
day Dog. It is your one priority to
keep her alive.
DOG
I don’t understand why it came on all
of a sudden.
SMETT
Piper’s Detachment Syndrome is a
complex illness Dog. Do you know
what happens?
DOG
I know your D.N.A falls apart.
SMETT
No, that’s not true. It is pulled apart
by protein molecules. Before we knew
about that, we thought it was a form
of cancer. The molecules damage the
chromosomes and there’s never any symptoms
before the body undergoes a collapse.
Dog, she has a unusual death staring
at her.
DOG
I will look after her doctor.
SMETT
There will come a time when you will
no longer be able to cope. I will
visit and provide more RB but there
is little else to do.
DOG
So the Mistress must stay indoors?
SMETT
All the time. We have forced RB into
every cell in her body. She must be
surrounded by it constantly.
DOG
And if she isn’t?
SMETT
The RB is only arresting it Dog. The
disease itself is relentless. There
is no cure. Without RB she will die
within hours. Tell all her staff to
close doors.
DOG
I’ve been with her since I’ve been
fifteen doctor.
SMETT
Very commendable but you must look
around for a new Mistress unless
you ask for your D and F.
DOG
I could never do that.
INT. A CONSERVATORY - DAY
Viper is eating. Dog stands nearby with a fork and a knife.
VIPER
Dog, I never thought I would actually
need you to serve me.
DOG
Anything I can do Mistress, I will.
VIPER
You’ve been a good slave to me. I
must say. . . Dog. Where did
that name come from?
DOG
It was the name of that man’s dog
you and Mistress Lilith saw outside
that club.
VIPER
I remember now! Yes. He slipped and
fell on some dog shit. He hit the
bloody thing and called it Dog.
DOG
And I was on the floor. . .
VIPER
. . .waiting to be whipped or
something like that. We were waiting
for a taxi and Lilith gave you a
belting and I stopped her. You were
only young. I remember now.
DOG
That’s right Mistress. Fifteen.
VIPER
And you wanted to be a slave even
at that age?
DOG
Yes Mistress.
VIPER
That was twenty five years ago Dog.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
VIPER
I can’t believe I’m asking this.
What is your real name?
DOG
It’s Paul Mistress.
VIPER
Paul? No, I can’t call you that.
Dog it’s been and Dog it will be.
DOG
Yes Mistress.
INT. DOG’S BEDROOM - NIGHT.
Dog is reading and there is a KNOCK. He opens the door to Florry and they embrace.
FLORRY
Is she asleep?
DOG
Yes, an hour ago. You look tired.
FLORRY
I’ve been on my hands and knees
all day.
DOG
So nothing’s going to change now then!
FLORRY
You are common!
DOG
I am that.
His door closes.
INT. A KITCHEN - NIGHT
Pill and Pot are working.
PILL
Are you tired?
POT
Yes. Since they’ve been pushing that
crap into the house.
PILL
I feel the same. RB may be prolonging
her life but it aren't doing much for
me.
POT
I’m having the weirdest dreams.
PILL
Oh, I’m not. Sleeping too well I
think. Out like a light. The agency
called today and asked if we were
alright. They’d heard about Viper.
POT
What did you say?
PILL
I said that the place was going to
pieces. Dog is screwing Florry. Predator
visits in the afternoon and petrifies
everybody and prevents them from doing
their duties and has warned Dog
not to tell Viper on pain of a good
thrashing. The Mistress doesn’t know
what’s happening in her own house.
Her power is ebbing away.
POT
These last three weeks have certainly
been interesting.
PILL
Would you leave?
POT
If you did. Of course I would. It’s
not going to get any better here is it?
INT. DOG’S BEDROOM - NIGHT.
Dog and Florry lay naked on his bed.
DOG
I’m sorry Florry.
FLORRY
It’s alright.
DOG
It’s been a while.
FLORRY
Was you nervous?
DOG
Embarrassed more like.
FLORRY
Was I good enough? Did I do
things right?
DOG
Florry, you were lovely and I think
that’s part of the problem.
FLORRY
I’m too good? Explain.
DOG
I’ve been a slave a long time. . .
FLORRY
You didn’t get turned on? I get it.
What shall I do? Beat you?
Dog smiles.
FLORRY (con’t)
Oh come on. I can’t do that.
DOG
I know. I’m sorry.
FLORRY
I would of thought that spending
a few hours with me treating you
nicely and equally would be welcomed.
DOG
It is Florry but it’s not what I
know.
FLORRY
Can’t you get used to it then?
Try to at least?
DOG
I’ll have to try.
FLORRY
I don’t understand. I’m a slave
myself but I don’t get hung up
like this.
DOG
You chose to be a slave.
FLORRY
And you didn’t? You’re as free
as you want to be.
DOG
I’ve been in slavery all my adult
life. It’s what I know. It’s all I
know. It’s like I don’t have a
choice anymore.
FLORRY
Oh come along! You mean if you had
the credit, you wouldn’t leave here?
DOG
No, I don’t think I would.
FLORRY
I’m very fond of you Dog. You know
that and I