Saturday, March 16, 2013

Three Swords

My Father has three swords sitting on a shelf.
He even let me hold one once, all by myself.
These blades are very special, as anyone could see.
But no one may ever know how special they are to me.

The first, my Father told me, is for the strength we have inside.
The strength we find with practice in a talent we can't hide.
It has been through many battles, and can vanquish any foe.
Through endurance and determination it will protect from any blow.

The second is quite special, He says, we have to take our time.
By precept upon precept, and also line upon a line.
This shining blade is knowledge, what we learn and how we grow.
How sharp the edge can get, I may never even know.

The third sword is much lighter, and easier to bear.
But is also the most fragile, and so we take much care.
This blade is wrought in water and by light of flame.
At the strong and sturdy hilt, it bares my Father's name.

These swords are very special. I use them every day.
My Father gave them all to me, to help me on my way. 
Soon a battle will arise, as never seen before.
But I will be prepared, and shall be tempted nevermore.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Detective Scene

(A table is DC with two chairs. Rita sits at the SR chair with a mug of hot chocolate. A manilla folder sits on the floor slightly up stage behind her. She has just finished work and is really tired. Enter Joseph SR. He knocks on the door leading to the room where she is.)
Joseph
         Rita, may I come it? (She doesn't answer) Rita? (He tentatively opens the door and sees her at the table.) Why are you still here?
Rita
         Hmm?
                                         
Joseph
         Rita I had a few questions for- are you alright? (Rita realizes who she's talking to and has a moment of fear)
                                        
Rita
         Oh, hello Joseph. I was just taking a break after- (he notices the folder)
                                        
Joseph
         What's this? (picking up the folder and crossing SR)
Rita
         What's what?
     
Joseph
         How did these files get in here?

        Rita
         Are they important?
Joseph
         Important!? Rita the only people who had access to these was Officer Mclien and myself.
Rita
         Then what are they doing here?
Joseph
         (In an accusing tone) That's what I would like to know.
Rita
          You're not accusing me of-
Joseph
          Well that's what it looks like, doesn't it?
   
Rita
          Joseph, you know how much work I've put into this case. You can't honestly say I took them.
Joseph
          Do you know how important these papers are!? (shaking them in her face)
Rita
          Of course I do. (beat) We've worked together for as long as I can remember. You know me better than that Joseph.
Joseph
          I thought I did.
Rita
          What's that supposed to mean?
Joseph
          I'm sorry Rita. But I've had my suspicions for some time.
Rita
          What gave you any reason to suspect me?
Joseph
          You were on site before the fire. Way before. Which tipped me off at first. But I didn't want to believe it. Then as you were unexpectedly detained during the testimony afterward I learned that the stature of the figure described fits you perfectly.
Rita
          You can't just assume that-
Joseph
           You have, many times, been seen conversing with a man of whom we have yet to identify. Furthermore, you seem to have more input than anyone on specific details of the crimes that have been reported lately.
Rita
           Are you sure you're not jealous that I've been more successf-
Joseph
           And now I see this folder in your office. Do you want me to go on? (she doesn't reply) You make a very convincing bluff my dear. But you have failed on many marks.
Rita
           (moving toward her purse on the chair) You can't rightfully accuse me without solid evidence.
Joseph
           You are right. Then other actions must be taken.
Rita
           But I am innocent until proven guilty.
Joseph
           Haha! If you would like to think of it as such. Now if you'll come with me- (She reaches for her purse) Don't you try anything! (he says as he pulls out a gun and points it at her) Let's make this nice and easy.
          
Rita
           If you want it to be nice and easy Joseph, you'd put that gun away. (he falters a little) Think about it for a moment. You've worked with me along enough to know I can't lie. (beat) I am telling you you've got it all wrong. I would never do those things you're accusing me of.
Joseph
           Don't try and get out of this Rita.
   
Rita
           (slowly walking toward him) Let's not be hasty. You know you can trust me Joseph.
Joseph
           Stop right there Rita. Put your hands up or I'll shoot!
Rita
           You don't want to do that Joseph.
Joseph
           Don't underestimate me. Just step away from the chair and come with me.
Rita
           Be rational Joseph.
Joseph
           Stop Rita! (she stops)
Rita
           Joseph you're making a mistake.
Joseph
           No Rita! I made a mistake a long time ago. I should have realized who you really were.
Rita
           Joseph, really, what trouble could I cause. (she's stepping closer to him)
Joseph
            This doesn't have to be difficult Ri-   (she hits the gun out of his hand and chops down at the pressure point at the base of his neck, and maybe something else cool. He collapses. She picks up the gun and the folder)

                          Rita
            I'm sorry Joseph. For once, you were right. (end scene. She could exit or just stay there for a beat)