WOMAN ON THE PLATEAU

A Black and Spiritual Comedy by Aashid Himons

Copyright 1998

615-353-1082 January 30, 1998

E-mail: aashid@goarchie.com

Scene 1

Ext-Grassy area-Daylight

Fade up to grassy clearing in the middle of a wooded area next to a creek. First Margota enters and then Tapo enters and they both plop down in the grass as though they are exhausted from running.

MARGOTA

Whew! That felt terrific.

TAPO

Was that five miles?

MARGOTA

At least.

TAPO

I'm almost ready for Arizona.

MARGOTA

You're really going, huh?

TAPO

It's time for a change. My work is caught up.

My bags are all packed. The only thing that's

missing is you. I want you to go with me.

MARGOTA

My clients need me. I'm the only

thing between them and homelessness.

TAPO

I'm going to take an unbelievable

journey into the unknown.

MARGOTA

Are you gonna lose your job?

TAPO

I'm asking for a ninety-day leave of absence,

and if they don't give it to me I'll take it.

Fade to black-

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Scene 2

Fade in-

Int-

Scene opens with Tapo walking through rows of caskets in the Moore family Mortuary.Walks into the office of Ben Moore, his Father(employer) and says;

TAPO

Hello dad.

BEN MOORE

Good morning, son. Do you still

want that leave?

Tapo nods his head in affirmation.

BEN MOORE

Where are you going?

TAPO

Arizona. I heard about some real magical

places out there.I'm looking for the meaning

of life.We come from a long line of morticians and

we certainly understand death,don't we father?

BEN MOORE

Okay Tapo,you've got six months with pay.

If you're not back in six months I'll

have to hire another mortician.

TAPO

Thank you so much dad. And If I'm not

back in six months, I'm not coming back.

Fade to black-

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Scene3

Ext-Apartment courtyard-Daytime

We see Tapo and his wife Margota strolling hand in hand through the court yard leading to the already packed Jeep. She says as he opens the vehicle door;

MARGOTA

If it's absolutely marvelously cosmic, send for me, will you?

They kiss and embrace and he enters the Jeep and drives away.

Fade out-

Scene 4

Fade in-

EXT.Location-Dusk

Walking through the desert, suddenly to his relief the bearded black man spots a tree that glows as if it's lit from an indirect source. On his back he carries a military issue back pack with metal camping tools dangling from the sides and tapping against each other, ringing through the thick night air, warning the morning creatures near and far of the human presence. Approaching the center of the clearing, the man is moving toward what seems to be a pile of stones. He takes a few more steps and suddenly notices the fact that he is standing in the middle of a strange circle made of stones with straight lines of rocks emanating from the center pile to the edge of the sphere. Removing his backpack and talking softly, he sits down and says to himself,

TAPO

Where am I and what is this I see?

Just at that moment a distant, powerful, low and pleasant yet foreboding voice inquires;

ENTITY VOICE#3 (in the Distance)

Do you know who you are?

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Before the visitor could answer, the big voice says,

ENTITY VOICE#3

Do you know where you are and do you

realize you are sitting in the center

of the universe?

With no warning figures begin to separate from the night and move silently toward the center of the stones, where the visitor watches in amazement and utters,

TAPO

Am I in the right spot, is this the

balance for me, do you have good

news for me or are you here to destroy my soul?

I can feel the power in your command.

I came because I was called by those

who know more than I.

A voice getting closer to Tapo says;

ENTITY#1

You've been here before in the ancient times

and now you will find self and meet your being.

We three entities are here to tell you about

the Woman on the Plateau. She will take you on the

journey to the top of the overworld. That's where

your treasures are stored.

speaking softly and with apprehension;

TAPO

Is this dangerous? I feel like I should

be afraid. Can I survive this? Is there a

possibility of something totally drastic

and dark and negative happening to my

inner self? I want this but I want to be

sure that the three of you are from

the divinity within. You know mistakes

can be costly.

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Entity moves forward and places right hand on visitors forehead and says compassionately and directly to him;

ENTITY#2

There are no mistakes. Every thing is

perfect because it is part of the Great Plan

that has always been.

Getting nervous the visitor asks with shaking voice;

TAPO

Is it time to go to the Plateau?

I think I'm ready.

ENTITY#3

Yes, but first you must pass through

the Valley of Manifestation and there

you will physically live your thoughts.

And there in the bottom of the canyon you will

drink from the Fountain of Fears, and after

you've digested the darkness you will stand

under the Falls of Forgetfulness and

there, basic things like your name will

fade into the Shadows of Noneness.

TAPO

But I'm searching for the Fields of Peace,

the Sea of Love, the Sky of Tranquillity,

the Desert of Dreams.

ENTITY#2

All those places are on the other

side of the Overworld.So just keep on

keeping on and you shall soon be realized.

So stand up and let's be on our way.

You have many steps to take and doors

to open.

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And now a trumpet sounds from the darkness of the woods and Tapo jumps with fear and exclaims;

TAPO

Maybe I'm not ready. I should think

about this for a while, I should

come back another time. I know where

I am now and I can find it again.

ENTITY#1

You can't find the Medicine Wheel.

It must find you.

ENTITY#2

This is your chance, don't blow it.

ENTITY#3

Step right up this way.

TAPO

Can I turn around when I want to?

Will you show me the way back?"

ENTITY#2

No, but we will show you the way to

the Shore of Rejuvenation which is

a good place a being like you

to recharge after burn out.

TAPO

A being like me, what does that mean?

What kind of beings are you?"

ENTITY#3

We are the Bliss Beings. We are here

to make you feel good.

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TAPO

I feel pretty damn good already.

ENTITY#1

For many years you've longed for

enlightenment and you've searched for truth.

TAPO

Are you truth and enlightenment?

ENTITY#1

I'm Truth.

ENTITY#2

I'm Enlightenment.

ENTITY#3

And I'm Justice.

TAPO

When will I know who I am?

ENTITY#2

The Woman on the Plateau knows everyone,

she'll tell you who you are, and she is

expecting you soon.

Walking slowly the visitor stops abruptly and says;

TAPO

Should I walk this way? It's awfully dark

and deep.Why don't you go first?

ENTITY#3 or (JUSTICE)

Oh no! You're on your own. Choose your path.

Every path you take leads to the Plateau.

We are here to observe you.

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ENTITY#2 or (ENLIGHTENMENT)

We are preparing you for the Woman on

the Plateau at the top of the World.

She is going to take you to a city

on the top of the Overworld, where

bliss is only the beginning, where

wisdom is the basic foundation and

where beauty is existence itself.

TAPO

Are you gonna stay with me?

ENTITY#1 or (TRUTH)

Destiny is not predetermined.

TAPO

Why am I going through this?

ENTITY#1 or (TRUTH)

You're simply doing what you're

doing because you're doing it.

TAPO

Is this my path? It seems so steep.

ENTITY#1 or (TRUTH)

You think this is steep? You should see

some of the other paths. Believe me, you're

lucky that this is the path you created.

Fade out-

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SCENE 5

FADE IN-

EXT-Desert-Night moonlight.

As the visitor (Tapo) reaches the valley floor, he realizes he's alone. His guides seem to have disappeared into thin air. Just in that moment an entity say's with assurance;

ENTITY#5-BASHALUA

I am the entity that has always been with you.

I am the one who dwells inside of you.

I am the unseen. I will always be here with you.

You have nothing to fear.

TAPO

Who are you and where are you from?

Should this inner voice which you provide

me make me feel safe and protected?

ENTITY#5

My name is Bashalua. I come from

the beginning of the time which ended.

My father is the Father of All Being

and my mother is Mother of All Creation.

TAPO

Well, are you perfect?

ENTITY#5 or (BASHALUA)

Hell yes I'm perfect. That's why I live

in you. You know I'm really surprised

that it's taken so long for you to even want

to get to know me. We've carried on many

conversations, and you didn't even know

I was there.

TAPO

Why is your presence so strong now?

Uh, I feel so strange.

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BASHALUA

My friend, you're feeling strange because

you're in the Valley of Manifestation and

everything you think is manifested immediately.

This is where we learn to deal with our fears.

At this time a figure appears in the shadows and addresses Bashalua;

ENTITY#6

Bashalua Oh Bashalua, introduce me to

your friend.

BASHALUA

His name is Tapo, he comes from

the middle of the beginning. His father

is my father also and his mother is

the mother of us all.

TAPO

What do you mean by, the middle of the

beginning and all that other stuff?

BASHALUA

In the beginning there was only

the Great Mother. Everything that is

and was or ever will be dwelled there

inside of the Her in a state of total bliss

and pure love. In a moment of timelessness

she introduced opposition. That's when justice

became a concept. Soon She found opposites

to be absolutely required. She even saw

the necessity for an opposite to

the Great Mother Herself and that was

the Great Father Himself. That was when

the middle of the beginning began and

that's where we came in. That was our

first incarnation into this universe.

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ENTITY#6

But I don't remember Tapo.

Tapo, do you remember me?

BASHALUA

We've never seen each other on this

side of life, have we Stata?

Up until now Tapo has only been

able to handle one side at a time.

But it won't be long now, we'll

both be on both sides all of the time.

We're off to see the Great Woman.

TAPO

To the Woman on the Plateau and to

the top of the Overworld.I'm ready.

ENTITY#6 or (STATA)

Well then you should come with me.

I will show you the way to the Great Plateau

and the Angel of AMA will meet us there.

Soon you will drink from the Fountain of Fears

as for now just look around you and think in

images and watch them manifest right in front

of your eyes. This is the good part.

BASHALUA

Don't you dare think any evil thoughts now.

Bashalua's voice changes abruptly to a more subdued tone and he says;

BASHALUA

Tapo, we've been together for many, many years,

timeless to the imagination and I've been the

privileged one. The one with all the answers,

the one who knows it all, the one who enjoys

life eternal, and soon, very soon we will be

as one through infinity itself.

So we're together on this one.

If you stay in touch with me and you don't

freak out we'll make it through this.

I am your protector.

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STATA

Yes and I'm your guide through the Valley

and to the Fountain and my old friend Zimbuye

will be there to greet us. She will guide you

from the Fountain to the Falls.

BASHALUA

So how about walking a little faster.

I'm excited. This is great.

TAPO

Where are Truth, Enlightenment and Justice?

I wish they were still here with us.

When are we gonna see them again?

At that moment, light descends upon the consciousness of Tapo and every lie he ever told penetrates the molecules of his inner self and the cleansing begins;

TRUTH

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo ---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Yaaa Wo ---

Ta Ta Te Ya Weeee Yaaaa Wo

I am the Truth and I have always loved you.

Why have you not allowed me to be your friend?

I have wanted you since forever was

yesterday and you have known me longer

than that. Now, let's come to terms with all

the lies you live.

TAPO

But it's so painful, it's hard to take.

I see everything and all the consequences.

What the hell ? Insane in the brain!

How am I golng to make it through this?

Bashalua, are you still with me?

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BASHALUA

I've always been with you and always

will be with you, in your presence,

right by your side.

TAPO

I feel horrible! Stata, what's happening

to me? I'm so, I'm so, I'm so full of fear.

FADE OUT-

Scene 6

FADE IN-

INT- Tapo and Margota Apt-

The scene is a Nashville inner city luxury apartment. Camera pans the room and zooms in slowly on a family portrait of Tapo and what appears to be his family. The woman which seems to be his wife in the portrait enters the room, fumbles through a pile of papers with messages and phone numbers scribbled on them. She picks up and dials the phone and says;

MARGOTA(woman/wife)

Yes, Sedona Police Department?

I want to report a missing person.

POLICEMAN ON PHONE-SARGEANT LANGE

Well, who are you and who are you

looking for?

MARGOTA

My husband . I'm searching for my husband.

His name is Tapo Moore. My name is Margota.

Go to closeup shot of grey haired, wrinkled, pale faced policeman on the other end of the phone. Hesitating slightly, he asks;

SARGEANT LANGE

When was the last time you saw him?

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MARGOTA

Oh, 'bout three months ago.

SARGEANT LANGE

Three months ago? Why did you wait

so long to call us?

MARGOTA

I talked with him two or three times a week

up until two weeks ago.His calls just ceased

and I have no number for him.

SARGEANT LANGE

Where was he staying?

MARGOTA

Well, that's a good question.

He told me he was camping in

the desert every day and night.

Searching for the Vortex.

SARGEANT LANGE

Do you know which one?

MARGOTA

I thought there was only one.

SARGEANT LANGE

Naw, there's vortexes all over Sedona.

I tell you what I'm gonna do. I'll ask

around town and see if anybody has seen

your husband. Meanwhile, if you give me

your phone number, I'll let you know what

I come up with.

MARGOTA

No sir, I'm out of here on the first

thing smokin'.I want to surprise Tapo.

I sure hope he's alright. I'll catch a

flight to Phoenix, and I'll rent a car.

Expect me within two days. What is your

name, Sir?

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SARGEANT LANGE

Just ask for Sargeant Lange. I work the

day shift. You already have my phone

number and I'll see you when you get here.

By the way, what's he driving?

MARGOTA

A Jeep Cherokee. Brand new and blue.

Have a beautiful day, sir.

SARGEANT LANGE

I'll do what I can, Ma'm and have a safe trip.

Call me when you get here.

Scene 7

EXT-BEACH-NIGHT

The scene is somewhere on the Shore of Rejuvenation. Resting in the light waves of the solar expanses we see Truth, Enlightenment and Justice. They are in a deep conversation;

TRUTH

What should we do about Margota?

Is she ready to know?

ENLIGHTENMENT

Let's lay it out there and if

she picks up on it, she's ready.

JUSTICE

What if she freaks?

TRUTH

That would be very sad.

JUSTICE

Now you know we gotta find her before

she finds the Medicine Wheel. Right?

ENLIGHTENMENT

Are we ready to go to Nashville?

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TRUTH

I am.

ENLIGHTENMENT

She's flying to Phoenix today.

Why not meet her at the airport and

conserve our energy. We've got a big job.

Don't you agree?

FADE TO BLACK-

FADE UP FROM BLACK-

Scene 8

EXT_

From inside the Cosmobile we look out upon the beautiful scenery as it passes. The occupants of the car are Justice, Enlightenment and Truth. We don't see them, we only hear their voices;

ENLIGHTENMENT

You know, I think Tapo and Bashalua are

gonna become inseparable pretty damn soon.

TRUTH

So, they are doing it right?

ENLIGHTENMENT

Yeah, and Margota, little does she know

what's in store for her. She's got big growing

to do. Push that button so we can get to the

airport faster. I don't want to miss her.

FADE TO BLACK-

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Scene 9

Fade in-

INT. CAR_DAYTIME

Full frame shot of black-and-white surveillance screen, as shot does pull out to reveal the control panel of the Cosmobile, after spotting the airport a voice says with relief;

JUSTICE

We made it! Now we must watch her.

Scene 10

EXT. NIGHT-

Close up of Tapo's screaming face. Pan and pull out to reveal dancers outside a ring of fire. Dancers are dressed in white flowing costumes. Tapo sits in fetal position in the center of the ring and says;

TAPO

What the hell's going on here? Is this me?

If it is, then I shouldn't be here.

I'd rather be anywhere than here,

dealing with this bullshit.

The dancers continue their chant;

The Woman on the Plateau is waiting just for you.

The Woman on the Plateau knows just what you're going through.

The chant goes on and on.

Fade out slowly-

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Scene 11

Fade in-

INT-Sedona Police Department-Daytime

We see the inside of a small-town police station with two desks and a uniformed policeman at both desks reading a newspaper. The door opens aggressively and in walks Margota. The young and cocky police officer says in a rude manner;

OFFICER BOBBY BRIGGS(young policeman)

Yes, what can I do for you?

MARGOTA

I'm looking for Sargeant Lange.

He is expecting me.

The older policeman raises his eyes over his eyeglasses and picks up the telephone receiver and inquires of Margota;

OFFICER BRIGGS

And your name please madam?

MARGOTA

Margota Moore.

Older policeman touches buttons on phone and says to someone on the other end;

OFFICER BRIGGS

Let me speak to the Sargeant.

He looks at Margota and says;

OFFICER BRIGGS

There's a young lady to see you. Her name is----

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Just then he gestures toward Margota with a puzzled expression on his face. Margota catches the signal and says;

MARGOTA

Margota Moore from Nashville.

OFFICER BRIGGS

He says you should come right on in.

This way Ma'm.

Crossfade-

Scene 12

cross fade

INT-

As they walk toward the narrow corridor the camera cross fades to an internal shot of the Sargeant's office door. A knock ensues and the Sargeant says;

SARGEANT LANGE

Come right in, come right in.

The young police officer enters first and proceeds to hold the door for Margota's entrance. Margota enters and the Sargeant says to the young policeman;

SARGEANT LANGE

Mrs. Moore, this is officer Bobby Briggs.

But I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you just

called him Bobby.We're all on a first

name basis around here. A friendly thing,

you know what I mean? You can call me

Lonnie or if you prefer, you can call me Sarge.

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Simultaneously Sargeant Lange and Margota extend their arms to shake hands.

SARGEANT LANGE

It's a pleasure meeting you.

Can I call you Margota?

Without giving Margota a chance to respond, the Sargeant continues;

SARGEANT LANGE

Old Bobby here has been doing some asking

around about your husband and maybe he's

come up with something. Fill us in Bobby.

OFFICER BOBBY BRIGGS

Better than that, let's all go for a ride

and I'll fill you in on the way to talk

with Wipuka Lone Elk.He has spent a lot of

time with your husband. He knows we're coming.

Hard cut-

Scene 13

INT.

As they walk away from camera, down the hallway toward the front door, the conversation continues;

MARGOTA

It certainly is a beautiful name he has.

What tribe is he from?

SARGEANT LANG

Years ago we were both swimming in Oak Creek

when that conversation came up, and as I can

remember he said he was full blooded Washitaw.

MARGOTA

What did he mean by that?

How can he be two full-----

naw it doesn't work like that.

Fade out-

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Scene 14

Fade in-

Ext-

Wide shot of Tapo walking toward the Fountain of Fear with head lowered. We can hear Tapo and Bashalua talking to each other;

BASHALUA

Do you think we're gonna make it?

It's rough isn't it?

TAPO

Yes, but together we'll make it.

I've got to get over my fears.

BASHALUA

Our fears have everything to do

with the state of our existence.

Tapo (Bashalua) is walking along without watching his step. Suddenly he falls into an open pit so dark, he could not see his hands in front of his face. A fear grips the essence of his being and shiver is what his body begins to do. His mouth opens and a giant shriek and flies from his throat. In a very calm tone, Bashalua says to Tapo;

BASHALUA

You are losing it. Don't lose it.

We are here together. You are not alone.

TAPO

Why are you not afraid? Are we

not the same? What's the difference here?

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BASHALUA

I've been around a lot longer than you have.

I've been here since long before this

age of dualities that we embrace so warmly.

Once there was no need for you.

You entered my coexistence and we've

been at balancing odds with each

other for over a thousand years.

But now times have changed and we will soon

achieve oneness with one another.

That's why we're here now in this

hole of complete darkness,

at the entrance to the Fountain of Fears.

This is as close to hell as you'll ever be.

TAPO

You know what?

BASHALUA

What?

TAPO

I think this is hell, no, no, no,

I know this is hell.

BASHALUA

Do you have any idea how many times

we've been through this? You don't

want to hear how many times it's been.

TAPO

I feel like climbing out of this hole.

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Tapo proceeds to stand with arms outstretched, trying to find something to hold on to. He starts to shuffle forward not able to see where his feet are stepping. Suddenly, his hands are touching something warm and slimy and very much alive. Too frightened to run or scream, he says silently to Bashalua;

TAPO

Do you feel what I feel.

BASHALUA

We have just entered the Fountain of Fears.

We are now in the presence of, and under

the influence of the Tormentor. He enters

our souls through the slime we touched.

TAPO

How do you know so much about this?

BASHALUA

The last time we were here, this is as far

as we made it, or should I say as far as you

made it. I dropped all that shit that scares you

a long time ago. Millions of years, yes,

millions of years.

TAPO

I am starting to get a strange sensation

in my body, uhhh, that is if I still have one.

Fade to white

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Scene 15

Fade in

Ext-

Out of the white fade we see a police car approaching a very small dwelling in the middle of what seems to nowhere.As the car stops a cross fade reveals the scene inside of the cabin. With a pan toward the center of the one room,we see Wipuka Lone Elk standing and turning slowly in a counter clockwise direction. He is also chanting;

Crossfade to-

Scene 16

Int-Cabin-Daytime

W. LONE ELK

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo----

Ta Ta Te Ya We Yaaa Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya Weeee Yaaaa Wo

Lone Elk some how senses the arrival of the visitors and turns and reaches to open the door. As the door opens, the Sargeant's hand, knuckles first, comes flying through the door, not anticipating the door opening when it did. The Sargeant enters first and says;

SARGEANT LANGE

How ya doin' Lone Elk?

Sure good to be visiting ya.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Good evening Mr. Elk.

You remember me don't you?

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Camera shot of Lone Elk nodding in affirmation and Officer Briggs continues by placing his hand on Margota's shoulder and saying;

OFFICER BRIGGS

This is Margota Moore and she has lost

her husband somewhere here in Sedona.

His name is Tapo Moore and I'd appreciate

it if you'd tell us what you know about

his whereabouts.

MARGOTA

It's a pleasure meeting you Lone Elk.

Have you seen my Tapo?

LONE ELK

Margota, I've heard that name before

and it's a beautiful name. I was waiting

for you. I was told that you were coming

in search of answers to questions and the

first answer is yes, I have seen and do

know approximately where your husband is.

MARGOTA

Well, can I go to where he is?

I really miss him.

LONE ELK

Do you have your luggage with you now?

MARGOTA

Not here. It's all in my car at

at the police station. Why?

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LONE ELK

I suggest you move in here with me

and he will soon return. When we

are alone, I have a story to tell

you about you and your destiny.

SARGEANT LANGE

You know we could bring it all out

to you later.

LONE ELK

Unless it makes you feel more secure

having your car and other things

close at hand, I have everything

here that you need, including food.

MARGOTA

I think I'll go get my car. Just in case.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Can you find your way back.

LONE ELK

Is this your first time in this

part of the country?

MARGOTA

I certainly haven't been here before.

LONE ELK

I'll ride into town with you

and I'll show you around.

A close up shows the face of Margota with a look of distrust and bewilderment.

Crossfade-

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Crossfade to-

Scene 17

Ext-

Crossfade to facial closeup of Tapo laughing hysterically. Now we hear the voice of Truth say;

TRUTH

Are you ready for me?

TAPO

I'm not sure.

TRUTH

If you want enlightenment,

you have got to come through me.

Tapo then looks down and sees a long knife being thrust into his belly. He screams in pain and we now hear the voice of Justice;

JUSTICE

Take that and take that,

you gave it, now take it.

Take that and take that,

you gave it, now take it.

Justice chants this over and over and is joined by other voices and drums and dancers, thrusting knives into Tapo's belly. Then comes the voice of Bashalua;

BASHALUA

Transcend the pain. You can do it.

We've never been this far together.

This is just about half way there.

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TAPO

But look at all the blood coming

out of me. Am I going to die?

BASHALUA

You're already dead.

TAPO

What are you saying.

BASHALUA

I'm saying, you are dead. Your carcass

is sitting in a full lotus position in the

desert near a ghost town called Pataki.

TAPO

Is our carcass cold yet? That body does

belong to both of us doesn't it?

BASHALUA

No the carcass isn't cold and yes

it does belong to the both of us.

Meanwhile, Justice and the dancers continue to thrust the blades into Tapo(Bashalua). They all scatter at the sound of an engine appproaching. We then see the Cosmobile with Enlightenment at the controls. Justice gets in the back seat of the Cosmobile and Tapo says;

TAPO

Who is that?

BASHALUA

That's Enlightenment.

Enlightenment rolls down the wndow and shouts as the Cosmobile drives away;

ENLIGHTENMENT

We will greet you at the top of the Overworld.

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As the Cosmobile rolls into the distance, we hear the voice of Tapo say;

TAPO

Why do you know so much more than me?

BASHALUA

Because I am the higher self and you

are the lower self. I've waited for many

thousands of years to become one with you

and we are getting very, very close.

to that wonderful moment.

Tapo turns his head in all directions and says in a confused tone;

TAPO

Which direction should we go?

Should we follow the tracks of

Justice and Enlightenment?

BASHALUA

Zimbuye will be here soon.

She knows the path to the Falls.

TAPO

Were you serious when you said

that I'm dead?

BASHALUA

The only alternative to death you

have is to go back to where you were.

TAPO

I hope this isn't my last chance

to make a decision.

plateau/97 p30

BASHALUA

If we make it to the top of the Overworld,

we will become one with each other and

we can make a joint decision.

TAPO

I'm not sure I like the sound of that.

I have a wife and I love her a lot.

BASHALUA

You mean, we have a wife and we love her a lot.

We should not worry about her because she is

just fine. If she's as powerful as I think

she is, she'll meet us at the top. She is

destined to meet her Higher Self, and

I mean soon.

Fade to black

Scene 18

Int-

Fade in on passing desert landscape view from interior of Margota's car. We hear the voices of Margota and Lone Elk;

MARGOTA

This is such beautiful country.

LONE ELK

It's also magical. Do you feel

a connection to the land here?

MARGOTA

I'm not sure but I am sure I feel a

connection to Tapo and I would uhhh---

really like to get in touch with him.

Do you know where he is?

plateau/97 p31

LONE ELK

Right about now he's waiting for his guide.

This guide will take him to

the Falls of Forgetfulness.

MARGOTA

Can you tell me which road to take?

I'd like to surprise him.

LONE ELK

I can show you how to get there,

but there's no way of knowing where

he'll be by the time you arrive.

But, I do suggest that I believe you

are ready for the Woman on the Plateau.

MARGOTA

Who is the Woman on the Plateau?

LONE ELK

She is the one who knows

the one who knows all. The one who

knows all says it is time for you to

meet your Higher Self.

Hard cut

Plateau/97 p32

Scene 19

Ext-

Cut to Medicine Wheel. We see Tapo's carcass in a lotus position in the center of the Wheel. In the distance Margota and Lone Elk are walking toward the wheel and we hear Lone Elk say;

LONE ELK

This is where we begin.

Let's stop right here.

I want you to say this with me.

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo

Ta Ta Te Ya We Yaaa Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya Weeee Yaaaa Wo.

No matter what you see or feel,

continue this Tutima.

They continue to chant;

Fade to black-

Scene 20

Ext-

As we fade up from black we see Zimbuye arriving at the spot where Tapo(Bashalua) awaits guidance to the next step;

TAPO

This must be who we're waiting for.

BASHALUA

Are you ready?

TAPO

I hope so.

32

plateau/97 p33

Zimbuye approaches with a big smile on her face and says;

ZIMBUYE

I have a message from Margota Moore to you.

That message is,

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo

Ta Ta Te Ya We Yaaa Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya Weeee Yaaaa Wo.

If you continue to chant this Tutima,

you will not lose contact with your wife.

She will soon be entering

the Valley of Manifestation.

TAPO

How did she get there?

ZIMBUYE

That's exactly the way

things are supposed to be.

TAPO

And she's going through the same

things I'm going through?

ZIMBUYE

No, she's reaping her harvest, not yours.

Okay, let's go to the Falls.

Crossfade-

plateau/97 p34

Crossfade to

Scene 21

Ext-Desert road-Nighttime

Aimlessly walking down a lonely desert road, we see Truth waiting for any one who needs her. She is talking to herself silently, and we hear her say;

TRUTH

Why does the world not care about me?

Only the initiated few know me. Most of

the people are being pushed further and

further away from the knowledge of my

importance and the fact of my existence.

Well, at least I'm always needed

after the Falls. Yeah, that's when

they all need Truth.

Fade to black-

Scene 22

Int-

Fade in-

We are now inside of the Cosmobile. POV is from the inside to the passing landscape. We see cacti, bright and golden sands and mountains of red and white. We do not see Justice and Enlightenment, we only hear them;

ENLIGHTENMENT

Margota is at the edge of the Valley.

JUSTICE

Yes, and we must greet her.

plateau/97 p35

ENLIGHTENMENT

First we must find Truth and

I know exactly where she is.

Just about that time Truth appears in the distance, right in the center of the front windshield. The Cosmobile approaches Truth relatively slow, and stops alongside her. The door is programmed to open for Truth, Justice and Enlightenment, so she steps right on in with a very positive vibe encompassing her. As the door closes gently, a closeup reveals a large smile of sincerity and she says;

TRUTH

Margota is just about ready for us.

ENLIGHTENMENT

Tapo is half-way to the Falls, as we speak.

JUSTICE

He'll be ready for us soon.

Fade to black-

Scene 23

Ext-

Fade in to fingers of Stata on stringed instrument. As we listen to Stata's music, we see Tapo and Zimbuye walking toward the light from the camp fire Stata made to welcome her friends. Stata starts to vocalize, and the words that she sings are;

plateau/97 p36

While the music of Stata continues, Tapo and Zimbuye enter the camp site and immediately take a seat by the fire.When Stata finishes her song she says;

STATA

Listen to my melodies, feel my

rhythms and heed my word. Music is

the most essential ingredient to life,

and life is the most universal state of

existence, and all existence has always been.

Tapo, you are now in the middle of total fear.

Tell me what your fear is and my music

will heal you, if you surrender to the sounds.

TAPO

I'm afraid of the dark and

I'm afraid of the pain,

I'm afraid to lose and

I'm afraid to gain.

36

p37

plateau/97

ZIMBUYE

Flow with the the music and chant---

I'm afraid of the dark and

I'm afraid of the pain---

I'm afraid to lose and

I'm afraid to gain.

Say that over and over,

and I will do an ancient spirit dance

to help delete your fear.

Zimbuye stands and starts to dance in a whirling motion around the circle of fire which has a golden, red and blue glow. The music of Stata continues to accompany the dance. As this scene comes to an end, the camera pulls in close on thehands of Stata strumming her instrument.

Cross fade-

Scene 24

Int-

open with hands of Sargeant Lange, typing on the keypad of his office computer. Sargeant Lange appears to be in deep thought;

SARGEANT LANGE

They just keep coming, don't they?

OFFICER BRIGGS

They who, keep coming?

SARGEANT LANGE

You know. The New Agers, the Acid Heads,

The Spiritual Gods and the Liberated Goddesses.

OFFICER BRIGGS

You forgot about the UFO Freaks.

SARGEANT LANGE

I wish I could forget about 'em.

plateau/97 p38

OFFICER BRIGGS

What's wrong Sarge, Don't you believe

in beings from other planets?

SARGEANT LANGE

The beings that I've known from

other planets have never given me

any trouble. It's the people from

this planet I have problems with.

OFFICER BRIGGS

What are you saying? You know people

from other planets? Why haven't

you told me about this before?

SARGEANT LANGE

Oh, never mind.

The Sargeant falls into deep thought again and spins around in his chair and says;

SARGEANT LANGE

I'm gonna get to know her a little better.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Who?

SARGEANT LANGE

Margota, who else?

OFFICER BRIGGS

But she's married.

SARGEANT LANGE

So am I.

OFFICER BRIGGS

So your wife doesn't mind?

plateau/97 p39

SARGEANT LANGE

Well, you didn't hear me say that.

OFFICER BRIGGS

A trip to see Lone Elk may be

a productive move. Ay Sarge?

SARGEANT LANGE

We told her we would check on her

now and then, just to be sure

everything is okay. (laughter)

Somehow I feel a night visit would

be more appropriate.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Do you mean, tonight?

SARGEANT LANGE

Yes, yes, yes.

OFFICER BRIGGS

But Lone Elk is never at home after dark.

SARGEANT LANGE

I know where to find him. I know

precisely where they are and

what they are doing.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Sarge you're kinda giving me the creeps.

What is this expression I see on your face?

Do I sense danger?

SARGEANT LANGE

Yes, danger is everywhere, especially

when you mess around with that Medicine Wheel.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Did you have a bad Medicine Wheel experience?

plateau/97 p40

SARGEANT LANGE

I don't want to call it a

bad experience, but it was

unforgettable and that's for certain.

The Sargeant stands up nervously from his chair and begins shuffling through some papers on his desk and says;

SARGEANT LANGE

I'm gonna go home and eat and

spend some time with the wife.

You hold down the fort and I'll

be back by seven o'clock. And then

we'll see if we can find

Lone Elk and Margota. Are you hungry?

Do you want me to bring you some food?

OFFICER BRIGGS

Sure, bring me a sandwich and something to drink and

give my regards to Sally.

SARGEANT LANGE

If she calls, tell her I'm on my way.

The Sargeant turns and exits through the door .

Fade to black-

Scene 25

Fade in-

Int-

As we fade in from the black we see a skillet full of hot frying pork chops. As the camera pulls out we also see Sally Hope Lange, the spouse of the Sargeant, obviously getting prepared for the arrival of her mate. The door opens and the Sargeant enters in a good mood and says;

SARGEANT LANGE

It's a pleasure to have you at home waiting for me.

plateau/97 p41

SALLY

It's because you treat me like a queen.

SARGEANT

You are a queen. You're my queen.

Don't you ever forget that.

SALLY

Are you hungry?

SARGEANT

Ummm, yes I am. What's for dinner?

SALLY

Biscuits, pork chops, mashed potatoes,

peas and corn. How does that sound to you?

SARGEANT LANGE

It makes me hungrier just hearing about it.

SALLY

Are you off tonight?

SARGEANT LANGE

No, as a matter of fact I have to be

back in the office at around seven.

I'll be home by ten if

things are peaceful.

SALLY

Nothing big ever happens in this town.

SARGEANT LANGE

That depends on your definition for big.

SALLY

You know what I mean?

plateau/97 p42

SARGEANT LANGE

This land is very important to some people.

SALLY

It's important to me, it's important

to my livelihood. Oak Creek Canyon is

the home of the gods and the playground

of the ancestors. I wish people were

more into each other, but my friends

only care about self-realization.

SARGEANT LANGE

You and your friends?(chuckles). I'm ready to eat.

SALLY

Me too.

Sargeant Lange takes his seat while Sally Hope Lange serves up the pork chops and says;

SALLY

We should be eating more pig, you know.

It's like totally healthy.

SARGEANT LANGE

We'll pray over it. That'll make it kosher.

SALLY

Prayer will make a hog kosher?

Sally lowers her head and says;

SALLY

Let's pray

As they sit there in a silent prayer the camera fades to black and while still in the black we can hear the chant.

plateau/97 p43

Scene 26

Ext- Fade in-

As we fade in to the Medicine Wheel with Margota and Lone Elk chanting;

MARGOTA AND LONE ELK

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

I know the Woman 0n the Plateau.

Over and over until Margota almost panics. When she realizes she's alone, she cries out;

MARGOTA

Lone Elk, Lone Elk, where are you?

She listens intently for a reply,but no reply comes. And then it occurs to her and she begins to talk to herself and says;

MARGOTA

I don't really wanna be here.

This isn't Black enough for me.

But, I can't get that song out of my head.

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo. What is that?

I know the Woman on the Plateau.

Margota's attention is immediately drawn to the distant sounds of the chant being accompanied by a reggae beat. The sounds are getting closer. The stones in the Medicine Wheel are pulsating and glowing. Soon we see the headlights of the Cosmobile. The music gets louder as the Cosmobile gets closer. As the vehicle touches the outer perimeter of the Medicine Wheel, it comes to a stop, the doors open, the music stops, and Truth, Justice and Enlightenment step out of the Cosmobile. Truth attempts to lead the way and says;

plateau/97 p44

TRUTH

We were told by the Old Elders

that we should expect you and we will

guide you to the Foot of the Mountain,

but you gotta climb that mountain

all by yourself.

MARGOTA

Who are you?

TRUTH

My name is Truth.

JUSTICE

You can call me Justice.

ENLIGHTENMENT

I am the Great Reward known as, Enlightenment.

MARGOTA

This is my husband. His name is Tapo.

Can you communicate with him?

He's just sitting there not

breathing or anything.

TRUTH

Yes Margota, we're in constant communication

with him.

MARGOTA

He's not here?

JUSTICE

And neither are you.

MARGOTA

What happened to Lone Elk?

ENLIGHTENMENT

Lone Elk is here, but you're not and

that's why you aren't aware of his presence.

plateau/97 p45

MARGOTA

Well uhh, where are you?

TRUTH

Everywhere.

MARGOTA

Where is my husband?

TRUTH

He is everywhere, experiencing everything.

MARGOTA

Is that my reason for not being here?

JUSTICE

Only if you choose. You are now between here

and everywhere. It's up to you whether you

want to move forward or whether you want

to return to the time being.

TRUTH

You are free to change your direction

at any time.

ENLIGHTENMENT

You have absolute free will.

TRUTH

Even if you decide to return at this moment,

experiencing this phase has made

you a better person.

MARGOTA

Yes, but Tapo is already on his journey.

Margota puts her hands on her hips and says;

MARGOTA

Who will protect our bodies,

as they sit here alone and defenseless?

plateau/97 p46

TRUTH

Your Ancestors protect you always.

If someone attempted to do your

bodies harm, a great spell would

envelop them instantly. If you are

harmed by anyone, then that someone

will be devoured slowly, by the Cleansers.

Nothing new to the universe will befall you.

MARGOTA

Thank you, sister. I'm ready to go.

Margota struts proudly toward the Cosmobile and turns her head toward Enlightenment and says;

MARGOTA

Are we riding or walking?

As they continue walking toward the vehicle, we hear Enlightenment telling Margota what to expect on her quest;

ENLIGHTENMENT

First you must go through

the Valley of Manifestation.

This is where everything you

think is instantly manifest -------

Enlightenment's voice fades as the picture fades to black.

Scene 27

Ext-

Fade in-

Facial Closeup of Sargeant Lange with pull out reveals the fact that Lange and Briggs are watching the Medicine Wheel from a distance of one hundred feet. Briggs says to Lange;

OFFICER BRIGGS

Why are we here, Sarge?

plateau/97 p47

SARGEANT LANGE

I wanna find out more about this stuff.

OFFICER BRIGGS

What stuff?

SARGEANT LANGE

Has anyone told you the story of

the Woman on the Plateau.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Uhhh, no. Not that I can recall.

SARGEANT LANGE

Everything that is contained in life

itself is in some way connected to

the Woman on the Plateau.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Sounds kinda superstitious and crazy to me.

SARGEANT LANGE

There was a time when I also thought

that it was impossible for these

things to be true. But, after thirty

five years of Vortex and Medicine Wheel and

Crystal exposure,I've come to a conclusion,

and that conclusion is, it's all true.

OFFICER BRIGGS

This is new to me, and what does this

have to do with law enforcement, anyway?

SARGEANT LANGE

If this is about spiritual upliftment

and this helps uplift the people of

the world I would think that there

would be a lot less crime on our

streets and in our neighborhoods.

That's the best kind of law enforcement.

plateau/97 p48

Lone Elk proceeds to stand and walk toward the Sargeant and Deputy Briggs. He doesn't stop, but as he passes he says;

LONE ELK

I hope you are here to protect them.

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

I know the Woman on the Plateau.

And he disappears into the night.The Sargeant starts to walk slowly toward the Medicine Wheel and says;

SARGEANT LANGE

Uh, uh, uh, damn she's good looking.

I sure would like to, uhhh.

The Sargeant continues to walk, and as he enters the Medicine Wheel he suddenly realizes he has gone to far. He tries to retreat but an unseen, unstoppable force envelopes him and he sits alongside Margota and Tapo, neither of which occupy the time being. Their eyes are open and they have smiles on their faces. He reaches over and touches the leg of Margota. Immediately the stones begin to pulsate and glow. He is also unable to remove his hand from her thigh. His body is shaking uncontrollably, his eyeballs fall out of their sockets, his head shatters like glass. He completely breaks up into little pieces and the pieces are united in some sort of laser light and sucked up through the vagina of Margota and cast out into the Vacancy of No Existence. Briggs begins screaming with fear and concern for the Sargeant;

OFFICER BRIGGS

Sarge is gone. What am I gonna do?

Where am I gonna say he is? Nobody's

gullible enough to believe this story. I

wouldn't believe it if I hadn't seen it.

plateau/97 p49

Suddenly Margota speaks;

MARGOTA

You will never see him again and

if you want what's good for you,

go home right now. Get some sleep

and report this in the morning.

Tell the truth and peace will abide in you.

Come back to visit us when you want

to know more.

With that warning, Briggs walks so fast he stumbles time after time not able to get out of there fast enough.

Fade to black-

Scene 28

Int-

Fade in-

We see the hand of Sally Hope Lange gently knocking on the cabin door of Lone Elk. Lone Elk surprises her by sneaking up behind her and wrapping his arms around her in an embrace. She turns and gives him a big and passionate kiss. In the middle of all this she says;

SALLY

Where's Lonnie? Did he find you?

LONE ELK

Yes, but we probably won't be hearing

from him any time soon. The Ancestors are

calling him. He's got a whole lot of growing

to do and so do you.

SALLY

I don't like the way that sounded.

LONE ELK

Why did you come here tonight?

plateau/97 p50

SALLY

What kind of talk is that?

I wanted to see you.

LONE ELK

That's what I mean when I say you

have a lot of growing to do. Are you

shooting straight when you say you

only want to see me?

SALLY

Well, will you make love to me.

I don't get to be with you often enough.

LONE ELK

In my heart I'm always with you,

and that's still not often enough.

Hard cut to-

Scene 29

Ext-

Headlights from the Briggs driven patrol car fill the screen. As the car comes to a stop, and the headlights go out, the camera pulls out to reveal the fact that Briggs has driven within one hundred yards of Lone Elk's cabin and stops because he spots a vehicle parked on the other side of the cabin that looks familiar. He says in a soft mumble to himself;

OFFICER BRIGGS

Is that---? It can't be.

Well, I'll be damned.

plateau/97 p51

Briggs proceeds to exit the vehicle and walk toward the window which contains the silhouette of Sally and Lone Elk deeply engaged in sexual foreplay. Briggs nervously sits just beneath the window and he can hear the passionate statements and promises, the heavy breathing and screaming along with the squeaks of the bed and cabin. Suddenly it becomes absolutely quiet and we hear Sally and Lone Elk begin to chant;

SALLY and LONE ELK

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo---

I feel the Woman on the Plateau.

They continue to chant as they open the door and exit th cabin naked and holding candles obviously aware of the presence of Briggs. They reach toward him in order to each get an arm to help him to his feet. Briggs is frozen with fear as they escort him inside the cabin, still chanting. After they are inside we see the silhouette of Sally and Lone Elk stroking and disrobing Briggs.

Fade to black-

Scene 30

Fade up-

Ext-

Close up of the face of Enlightenment. He turns toward Margota and says;

ENLIGHTENMENT

The Alpha Ancestor has chosen you

for a special initiation process

that is at this moment entering your

Soul Being.The Soul of a dark and

tormented being will be travelling

through your energy spaces in order

to enter the Vacancy of No Existence.

plateau/97 p52

Go to closeup of Truth;

TRUTH

This is your path to the Woman on the Plateau.

Justice comes from other side of Cosmobile and says;

JUSTICE

We'll drive you to the Shore of Rejuvenation.

It's a comfortable and peaceful place.

It's also the most beautiful place

in this dimension. Under different

circumstances, I'm sure you would

enjoy it immensely.

MARGOTA

Tell me more about this tormented

being that's passing through me.

TRUTH

The Sargeant Lonnie Lange came to

the Medicine Wheel with sex on his

mind and he touched your body.

He was sucked into your womb and

transferred to this dimension. Here

he will be prepared for his timeless

stay in the Vacancy of No Existence.

We all know the Ancestor does not

tolerate sex without Tutima. Now he will

pay the price.

MARGOTA

Tutima?

TRUTH

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Woman on the Plateau---

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Woman on the Plateau.

That's Tutima

plateau/97 p53

MARGOTA

What does this all lead to?

I'm starting to feel even stranger than ever.

Should I stay or should I go?

Do I have a choice?

ENLIGHTENMENT

This the path of Inter-Universal Contact

and now it's your turn to grow spiritually.

Crossfade-

Scene 31

Ext-

Crossfade to close up of Tapo(Bashalua) experiencing the Falls of Forgetfulness. Bashalua says to Tapo;

BASHALUA

You can forget anything else but,

don't forget who we are. We are getting

closer to the Alpha Ancestor. Just relax

and float and let the current have control.

Are you with me, Tapo?

TAPO

Here I am. I'm right in here.

But, that's probably all I know.

At least that's how it seems.

Have I lost who I was?

Or was I who?

BASHALUA

You were Tapo Moore and you are an Eternal

Being in search of the Woman on the Plateau.

She will guide you to the Top of the Overworld.

From there you will have an up-close

view of the Other Side of Life."

TAPO

And there Margota will meet us.

Hard cut-

plateau/97 p54

Scene 32

Ext-

Cut to Margota. She is possessed by the demons of Sargeant Lange and dances and screams the Tutima to the rhythm of the drums.

MARGOTA

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Woman on the Plateau

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Woman on the Plateau

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya--Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Woman on the Plateau.

Tha camera pans the area and we see a celebration in the making. As the camera pans we see Enlightenment, Truth, Justice, Stata and Zimbuye along with several others dancing to celebrate and support the passage to the Plateau.

Fade to black-

Scene 33

Ext-

Fade up to a thick mist and we see Tapo(Bashalua)and Margota walking toward each other with looks of total love and contentment in their eyes and on their faces. We hear Tapo say;

TAPO

Margota, my love, you are here.

MARGOTA

You know I couldn't let you go

through this without me.

As they embrace Truth says;

TRUTH

Right there on top of the Holy Plateau

she's waiting for the both of you.

ENLIGHTENMENT

We are with you through all

Time and Eternities.

plateau/97 p55

STATA

I will sing Tutima as you climb

the Holy Hill.

ZIMBUYE

I will dance for your ascent.

JUSTICE

I am the drum.

TRUTH

I am the light.

As Margota and Tapo join hands and start their ascent, the Tutima celebration resumes.

Crossfade-

Scene 34

Crossfade to newspaper headline which reads;

TOP COP DISAPPEARS.

POSSIBLY AN ALIEN ABDUCTEE.

Pullback by camera and we hear Officer Briggs say;

OFFICER BRIGGS

No one will ever find out will they?

SALLY

Nope.

LONE ELK

Not unless we tell them.

OFFICER BRIGGS

Are any other people around aware of

the Woman on the Plateau.

LONE ELK

You would be shocked.

Hard cut-

plateau/97 p56

Scene 35

Ext-

Cut to celebration at the foot of the Holy Hill. As Margota and Tapo reach the Plateau, we hear Bashalua say;

BASHALUA

Now we are complete.

With that we see a flash of white light on the screen.

Crossfade to-

Scene 36

Int-

Crossfade to sign which reads; WELCOME TO NASHVILLE. We see the streets of Nashville from the inside of car just returning with Margota at the wheel. We hear Tapo say;

TAPO

Well, we're back at home.

Do you think we'll ever be the same?

MARGOTA

I don't want to be the same.

Margota and Tapo look at one another gleefully and Tapo takes a toke from a huge spliff. Bashalua then says inside of both of them;

BASHALUA

We are one.(laughter)

Fade to black-

plateau/97 p57

Scene 37

Int- Moores Mortuary-not much light

Fade in-

Full frame shot of door leading to cooler. The hand of Ben reaches for door knob and turns knob to enter. Camera enters right behind Ben and follows him to cooler drawers. He notices one of the cooler drawers is partially open. Just as he opens the drawer he turns and hastily leaves the room. Camera zooms in to full face shot of the pale white, dead face of Sargeant Lange.Now we hear the voice of Ben, talking on phone.

BEN MOORE

(voice only)

Hello, Johnny? Get over here as quick

as you can.(pause)Uh huh, bring the police

with you too. I've got an extra stiff

in my cooler.

Camera still on face when flashes start to go off on the face. Camera pull out reveals the fact that one hour has passed and the authorities have arrived and started their investigation.

Cut to-

Scene 38

Int-Moores Mortuary-night

Fatima Moore, mother of Tapo, watering the flowers in the mortuary and conversing with her husband, Ben.

FATIMA

I hope he's enjoying his vacation.

BEN

We need a vacation.

plateau/97 p58

FATIMA

I'm ready.

BEN

Too much death in the neighborhood

to leave and go on vacation. We're

making lots of money and I don't

wanna miss a dollar of it.

FATIMA

Yes, but the kids will run

things for us.

BEN

That's true.If they return any time soon.

Now Ben starts to dust off the caskets after which Fatima very methodically begins opening the caskets.The camera moves from face to face of the corpses, we come up on the body of Sargeant Lonnie Lange stretched out on cold slab.

Ben

I wonder who this guy was, and how

in Jesus' name did he get here.

FATIMA

Why? That's the real question.

BEN

My question is, how did the body get

into my building?

FATIMA

Someone must have brought it here.

What did the police say?

BEN

I talked to Detective Appleton and

basically told him the whole story about

finding the body in the cooler.

The Lab came over and dusted for prints.

plateau/97 p59

FATIMA

Did they find anything?

BEN

Nope. Nothing at all.

FATIMA

When are they gonna pick up the corpse?

BEN

I'm gonna do some prep work on

it tonight and take it to the

Coroner for autopsy tomorrow afternoon.

Fade to black-

Scene 39

Int-Apartment-Daylight-

Fade in-

Camera is panning the floor where Tapo and Margota have hurriedly removed their clothing and strewn it in a direct line to the bedroom. As the camera approaches the bed we see the both of them stretching and yawning, just beginning to wake up.

MARGOTA

Home sweet home. I like it here.

Tapo reaches over to pick up and dial the telephone. After an answer on the other end he exclaims;

TAPO

I'm back, pops!

He pauses four beats while voice on other end speaks.

plateau/97 p60

TAPO

Yes, yes, we will be over to see you

in a few hours.

(pause 6 beats)

TAPO

Uh,Huh.I love you too.

Hard cut-

Scene 40

Ext-Mortuary-Daylight

Cut to mortuary sign and pull out to show front of building. Margota and Tapo entering front door.

Crossfade-

Scene 41

Int-Mortuary

Crossfade to-

We see Tapo, Margota, Fatima and Ben all hugging and happy to see each other.As Fatima is hugging Margota she says;

FATIMA

You found him. You'll have to tell us all

about your trip. Maybe at dinner this

evening?

MARGOTA

That's fine with me.

TAPO

Sounds delicious, mom.

BEN

Are you guys busy this afternoon?

plateau/97 p61

TAPO

Well, we just got back late last night and

we have a couple of things to take care of.

MARGOTA

Why?

BEN

I was gonna ask you for a favor.

TAPO

Whats the favor?

BEN

Drop a body off at the morgue.

TAPO

That's easy enough

FATIMA

It's a weird cadaver.

BEN

It just showed up yesterday.

I found it in the cooler.

TAPO

Is it ready to go?

BEN

Let's load him up.

Fade to black-

plateau/97 p62

Scene 42

Fade in-

Int-Rear of hearse-Daytime

Pine box containing body starts to squeak and lid slowly begins to open. Fingers come slithering out and then lid closes as hearse backs into morgue unloading area. Attendants approach to give assistance in unloading box.

ATTENDANT

Tell your father we found out the identity

of the body.He was a policeman from Arizona.

It's written right here.There it is.

Lonnell Lange, Sedona, Arizona.

Closeup of Margota's face reveals the shock.

Crossfade-

Scene 43

Int-Hearse-Daylight

Crossfade to-

Closeup of Margota's shocked face in wagon.Camera pan to Tapo also in a state of shock.

MARGOTA

I know him.

Closeup of Tapo.

TAPO

I know his wife,Sally.

BASHALUA

We shed our thoughts in the Valley.

At the Fountain we faced our fears.

And now we must face this darkness.

He was sent by the forces of evil to---

plateau/98 p63

Box pops open and Sargeant jumps out as pale as a sheet with blood shot eyes and stark naked, grabs both morgue attendants and instantly snaps and breaks their necks. He turns toward Tapo;

SARGEANT LANGE

From this time on my name is Tor Men Tor.

I will roam this land, near and far,

striking fatal blows as I go.

MARGOTA (to Lange)

Why did you kill those men?

LANGE-TOR MEN TOR

Don't you worry. You've got a few days to live.

Tapo, Margota and Bashalua strike up the chant ;

TAPO, MARGOTA AND BASHALUA

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo

I know the Woman on the Plateau

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Wo

I know the Woman on the Plateau.

At the sound of the chant,Tor Men Tor holds his ears in pain, jumps over the lifeless bodies of the morgue attendants,lying on the pavement and runs full speed into the morgue. As he enters people inside start to scream in horror and agony. Tapo picks up cellular phone and dials 911. He gets no answer, so he calls his friend at police headquarters;

TAPO(frantic)

This is Tapo Moore and this is an emergency.

There's a murderer on the rampage.

Get someone over here right now.

The morgue, the morgue, the morgue.

Yes, just around the corner, Hurry!

pause

chant continues;

plateau/98 p64

Tapo continues one-sided phone conversation;

TAPO

Is Appleton available?(pause)

Tell him that Tapo Moore has

important information that

he needs to hear, pronto.(short pause)

Chant continues through the crossfade-

Scene 44

Ext-Seashore-Daylight

Crossfade to-

Shore of Rejuvenation. Stata, Zimbuye, Truth, Justice, Enlightenment and many of their Tutimanic friends, Including Drummers and Musicians on many instruments, playing beautiful music to call for the appearance of the Woman on the Plateau.The Plateau is visible from the Shore.A bright light starts to descend the mountain and approach the devotees.As the light gets closer and brighter and the drums get louder and faster. With a sonic boom, AMA (THE WOMAN ON THE PLATEAU) appears in the center of a giant ball of light which hovers over the Tutimanians, as they fall to their knees in reverence. HER hair is of long dreadlocks, as long as SHE is tall. HER skin is so dark as to be purple. A humming sound accompanies HER descent to the surface. HER form is totally encased in pure, white light. HER voice is like the rushing of the wind, as SHE speaks to all;

AMA

I have work for you. Alert all Tutimanians.

Tor Men Tor has penetrated the membrane.

Time is precious because many are suffering.

You must help everyone who needs help.

Justice, you will lead the mission. Bring your

drum to ME.

AMA raises HER hand to touch the magic drum and HER energy sends a ray of light shooting through the drum.

plateau/98 p65

AMA

Wadadaga Nanda Wadadaga Nandi.

This is the rhythm to combat

Tor Men Tor. It will force him

to return to this side and we will

keep him in isolation.

The drummers start the Wadadaga rhythm immediately. Justice

walks away with the magic drum and leads the other drummers

in the Wadaga rhythms.

AMA

Tutimanians, chant the Tutima with

the rhythm and it will make ME very happy.

I do not like for MY children to be in pain.

Please, do My will.(pause)I love you. Sondava!

As AMA raises both of HER hands as if to touch the sky, the light ball begins to lift off of the surface with a humming sound. The light craft moves effortlessly toward the Plateau.

Fade to black-

Scene 45

Ext-Morgue parking lot-Daytime

Close up shots of the dead attendants in the parking lot. Camera pans to front door. When he entered he was naked, but Tor Men Tor leaves building through same door he entered,wearing a blue suit, white shirt and tie, obviously stolen from someone. Just as he exits he suddenly comes to a complete halt and looks all around the area very carefully. He then raises his left hand and points threateningly at Margota, who is standing next to the dead attendants. He turns and proceeds to walk swiftly into the distance. At that moment the police and the ambulance arrive. Tapo points in order to tell them which direction to go to apprehend the killer, Tor Men Tor.

plateau/98 p66

Johnny Appleton arrives in an unmarked squad car and hastily jumps from the car.

TAPO (to Appleton)

You do know about the body that Pops found in

the parlor?

APPLETON

Yes.

TAPO

Well, it's alive and snapping the necks

of people.

Abruptly enters the sound of the drums (Wadadaga), followed by the sound of the Tutima chant and then the omnipresence of The Tutimanians.

TRUTH (to Margota)

(with warmth and tenderness)

Margota my dear, we have come to protect you.

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Woman on the Plateau

Tutima will destroy the Tor Men Tor.

Ta Ta Te Ya We Ya Woman on the Plateau

Justice carrying his magic drum, goes running in the direction of Tor Men Tor.

TAPO (to Justice)

Hold on, I'm going with you!

JUSTICE

Wadadaga Nanda, Wadadaga Nandi

Hard cut

plateau/98 p67

Scene 46

Ext-Deserted Nashville city street-Daytime

Tor Men Tor running toward camera as Justice and Tapo are gaining on him. Getting closer and closer as they approach the camera. Suddenly Justice stops in his tracks and sits on the edge of the curb and plays the Wadadaga on his magic drum.As Tapo stops, so does Tor Men Tor, who is one block away and he seems to be completely mesmerized by the drum. Tor Men Tor now moves toward the drum in a spastic dance. As Tor Men Tor approaches the drum,so do the Tutimanians.Tor Men Tor's body starts to turn to red light and begins to break up in big chunks, which are sucked through the membrane on the head of the magic drum. About that time Margota, Ben and Fatima arrive and the celebration begins.Everyone freezes and falls to their knees as a voice speaks loud but tender.

AMA (voice over)

Tutimanians. Job well done. Tor Men Tor is now in the silence of nowhere. His body has been returned to it's owner. He will soon return in a much more understanding state. I will see you on the other side. (pause) ----- Sondava!

Fade to black and credits

THE END

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