THE WARRIOR BRIDES

by Lisa Schultz Boyd

Throughout history, there is only one documented case of an all female army. The following story is based on real women, and their kingdom in West Africa in 1843.

FROM BLACK TO SHADOW LIGHT

...a WOMAN WARRIOR (slender but shapely) swaggers violently toward us. In battledress. She’s holding a machete.

In contrast, WE HEAR a soft voice...

VOICEOVEROver a century ago, the women of my kingdom were called upon to serve in battle. We waged war after war in the name of our husband. He was the ocean, and we were the sand.

The warrior then HISSES at us-- and RIPS OPEN her tunic-- showing her bare breast! But only for a second--

VOICEOVER (CONT’D)We were called amazons. And we were formidable.

SLASH! Her MACHETE CUTS across the screen--

VOICEOVER (CONT’D)But war is a futile god, and before long, there were no more amazons left to do the fighting.

EXT. LEFU FORTRESS - NIGHT

A lovely young woman (SERENA, 19) kneels before the Prince. Her sad, chestnut eyes are averted.

VOICEOVERSave one.

SERENAI am here, husband.

(then)At your call.

We are within the fortress walls of Lefu, and a square crowded with guests during a FEAST.

While handing a drink to the prince, Serena suddenly hears a NOISE. A WHISTLE. She JUMPS, spilling hot cider on him.

SMACK! The prince BACKHANDS Serena. Who pauses briefly. Then goes to clean the mess. The prince then turns to his officers--

PRINCEShe is bad luck, this third wife of mine... And lifeless in bed.

(MORE)

I would’ve sent her home to her father long ago. If he hadn’t been sold at Whydah. The jackal.

The prince’s men laugh. Sycophants. But Serena's friend (ZOLANI), dressed prettily as an officer's wife, puts a reassuring hand on Serena's shoulder.

EXT. LEFU FORTRESS - SAME

We go to QUICK CUTS outside the fortress walls: two Lefu guards get their throats slit from ear to ear. One is CLUBBED on the back of his head. They’re being eliminated. Silently. Another GUARD calls out:

LEFU GUARDNorth guard! Where are you?

No response. He turns, and discovers... the WOMAN WARRIOR...

SLICE!

EXT. LEFU FORTRESS - A MINUTE LATER

That same guard stumbles into the main square. The crowd parts for him. Gasps. He's clutching his abdomen... his intestines are leaking out. He gets to the prince, tries to say something... but thick red blood seeps from his mouth like lava. No tongue. And then he drops dead. Someone screams.

The prince (trailed by Serena and Zolani) finds his CHIEF and a mass of interior guards--

CHIEFWe are under attack.

PRINCEBy who?

Just then, another PIERCING WHISTLE, a secret battle language. When the crowd looks up to locate the sound, atop the fortress walls, they see:

Hundreds of HOUR-GLASS SILHOUETTES appearing in the moonlight, having just crested the battlements.

PRINCE (CONT’D)It is not possible...?

SERENAAn army of women.

2.

PRINCE (CONT'D)

CHIEFThen the stories are true.

(oh god)Let us be strong.

Serena takes in the scene. Wide-eyed. She’s heard the stories, too. She turns to her friend--

SERENAWe must stay together, Zolani.

Zolani nods eagerly.

Suddenly, an amazon fires a musket shot, and an interior guard goes down. Then another. BANG. And another. And now, the whole festival ERUPTS in chaos. The guests FLEE.

Dodging musketfire, the chief takes the prince aside. Serena and Zolani follow. So curious.

PRINCEThey cannot be allowed near me... I will be humiliated!

CHIEFThen stay here.

The prince, Serena, and Zolani hide behind a STONE WALL. While... the chief returns, into the fray, to confront--

The Amazon Advance Guard. Several of them, sinewy, strong, confident... ferocious. Dressed in prussian blue tunics and thick leather straps-- straps that bind their muskets, battle-axes, and warclubs to them--

They POUNCE on the guards like the swift rush of a pack of hounds.

The MAIN ARMY of amazons follows, devouring the enemies that make it past the advance guard.

The Commander leading in front (SOFI, 35, regal, muscular) STABS a guard in his face with two iron-tipped FINGERNAILS, de-eyeballing him. Another guard she SPLITS IN HALF with her 20-inch, wood-handled cleaver (a sort of portable guillotine).

Second in command, the one we saw bare her breast (KOKO, 28) takes a BULLET, and it swipes a chunk of her shoulder off. But to her, it's a bee sting. The guard who shot her, starts to reload, ignorantly pleading with her to--

LEFU GUARDWait! I said stop right there!

3.

But Koko PUSHES his musket aside with her left hand, and HACKS at him with the MACHETE in her right. She sees another guard watching her, stricken. So Koko lifts her machete and LICKS THE BLOOD off it... deliberately.

On the stricken guard. Terrified. He BOLTS. But as he does, he SLAMS into an AMAZON built like a TREE. The stricken guard turns around, sprints away, rounds a corner, and runs into the exact same, mirror-image amazon. Twins! Intoxicated by the smoke of muskets, they tear him apart.

Everywhere, amazons overwhelm the Lefu guards, CRUSHING THEM. An amazon wearing charms around her neck (AMARU, 29) finds the last guard, and JAMS the barrel of her musket into his mouth before firing it. BLAM. She pulls out a piece of chalk and uses it to mark his body with a snake symbol.

There’s just the lone Lefu chief left in the square now. Thoroughly defeated.

SOFISecure the captives.

At their Commander’s order, the amazons start chasing down escapees.

SOFI (CONT’D)(to the chief)

Where is your prince?

BEHIND THE WALL

Serena sees the prince has armed himself with a sword in each hand. She looks down at her own empty hands. Then--

SERENAHusband, maybe I can help... Give me one of those!

On the prince. Decides he can’t spare it. But then he sees...

SOFI is already here. Like an apparition.

SOFIYou are hiding? That is the act of a mouse. Not a man.

In one move, Sofi SWATS the prince's swords away with her own.

SOFI (CONT’D)I do not want to kill a helpless mouse. So I will let you live...

4.

(MORE)

(then)If you accept Abomean sovereignty.

PRINCESurrender our lands to your King?

On Sofi. That’s what she means.

PRINCE (CONT’D)But then my father will murder me when he returns! For treason--

SOFIToo bad.

Sofi closes in on him.

PRINCEWhat about a direct bribe?

(then)A million cowries!!

The prince backs up into a corner. On Sofi.

SOFIThe damage is done.

SHLOCK! Sofi strikes, and separates his head, which falls on the ground with a splat and rolls across to Serena, spewing blood. Zolani hiccups. Then VOMITS.

But Sofi sees Serena is unfazed by the severed head. And is surprised again when Serena SNATCHES the cleaver right from HER OWN hand...

SERENAOoof.

--and falls. (It's heavier than she expected.) Serena then find the strength to HOIST UP the stolen cleaver... But SLIPS in the blood on the ground (her bad luck surfacing) before swinging wide at Sofi... CHUNK. The cleaver misses its mark and gets LODGED in the clay wall behind them.

KOKO arrives.

KOKOWe did well, Commander.

(then)What is this crazy girl doing?

Koko sees Serena is trying desperately to pry the cleaver from the wall.

5.

SOFI (CONT’D)

SOFIShe does not seem to think the battle is over.

Sofi and Koko remain still, as Serena continues yanking on the cleaver handle. It’s no use. It’s in there forever. Serena stops, out of breath.

After a beat, Sofi pulls the cleaver out in one motion. Then questions Serena, genuinely--

SOFI (CONT’D)Your husband is dead at your feet. You don’t care?

Serena looks down at the hideous HEAD staring up at her. A beat.

SERENAI was unhappily married.

SOFISo you have no loyalty to your own kingdom? To Lefu?

Serena indicates Zolani next to her.

SERENAI have loyalty to the women here.

(then)And I ask you to spare us from captivity. We have done nothing wrong. Lefu’s pot of honey is yours. But please, let us stay--

SOFII do not have that authority. You and your women are coming with us to Abomey. You are King Guezo’s bounty.

(then)And he will either sacrifice you to appease our gods...

SERENAI beg you, no--

SOFIOr he will have us test your strength in the art of war.

On Serena-- frightened, confused--

6.

SERENABut there is no art in war.

KOKOThere is, the way we do it.

Sofi studies Serena intensely. After a beat--

SOFII think, princess, that you might be special.

Koko then glares at Serena. Sizing her up.

SERENAI am not special. I am bad luck.

SOFIYou should be the one to speak for your women.

(then)You must convince our King you can, and will, fight for Abomey. As an amazon soldier.

SERENAOr be put to death...?

Sofi and Koko walk away, finished with this conversation. Expecting the captives to fall in line...

Zolani grabs on to Serena, greatly alarmed--

ZOLANIBut Serena, we are not soldiers! I have never touched anyone in anger in my life. Neither have you! What do we do then?

Off Serena, and the gravity of it all sinking in--

SERENAWe survive.

(then)What else?

END OF TEASER

7.

ACT ONE

EXT. THE MARCH OF AMAZONS - DAWN

Marching away from the burning Lefu village in the b.g. are 800 conquering amazons in formation... At the front of the line, we find SOFI, riding a horse. She wears a fitted silver helmet with a long black elephant's tail hanging from it. Two servant girls on either side of her horse WAVE palm leaves to shoo away the tsetse flies. Behind Sofi is the only other cavalry -- the advance guard we saw earlier.

KOKOThis aches a little.

Koko nurses her left shoulder. Beside her, the twins (MALAIKA and PADOMAY). Plus Amaru (the Diviner). They all have TATTOOS of crocodiles, extending from waist to knee.

AMARULast night, I had seven...

(counting on her fingers)No, eight kills.

MALAIKAI had NINE, at least.

PADOMAYI had five. But one kill... His heart stopped from fright before I did anything. Honest.

MALAIKAMy kills were too surprised to be scared. They never saw me coming.

AMARU(still counting)

I had more kills last time in Djivo. Eleven.

MALAIKAI had TWELVE kills in Djivo.

Malaika’s a snob. But the amazons are all drunk with triumph now.

PADOMAYMalaika, you did not have twelve kills in Djivo.

MALAIKAI did!

8.

AMARUIf you marked them, like me, you would know for sure.

PADOMAYAnd if you stopped caring how you looked, you would have more.

AMARUNo one would doubt you, if you marked them.

MALAIKAPadomay, when our husband chooses me to stay in his chambers tomorrow night, you will wish you cared about your looks.

PADOMAYKoko will be asked to stay, I bet. We all know what makes him feel amorous.

AMARUYes--

Amaru points to Koko’s shoulder.

AMARU (CONT’D)Battlewounds.

(then)Are you excited to see him, Koko?

KOKOMm-hm.

Koko looks lost in thought. In an aside to Padomay--

KOKO (CONT’D)I missed Effia last night. Did you hear any more about her--?

PADOMAYNo. But I have not welcomed rumors.

(We'll find out why, later.) Suddenly, Koko sees Sofi pull her horse out of line, heading backwards.

KOKOStraighten up!

The advance guard straightens, and stares ahead.

9.

SOFI(to Koko)

Take the lead.

Off Koko... Where is she going?

EXT. THE MARCH - SAME

Sofi rides back through the regiments, passing bannerwomen who separate the armed guard from the main army in scarlet sashes. Another unit of musicians beat pressure drums made of tree trunks. Then the largest unit -- the servants -- many no older than 18. They are the baggage train. They carry the wounded soldiers in cloth stretchers. Finally, Sofi comes to the female CAPTIVES. Near thirty of them. Herded by amazons with whips. Off Sofi examining them--

EXT. MARCH - RECRUIT REGIMENT - SAME

Serena and her friend, Zolani, speak in whispers. Both of them weary. Afraid.

SERENAThe stories I heard about them... I thought they were invented... to scare weak men into disciplining their disobedient wives.

ZOLANISo what did you hear?

SERENAOne of the first Abomey kings... Dako. He had a group of women trained to hunt elephants. And they were very good at it.

(then)See the ivory?

Serena points out an amazon officer’s alabaster jewelry.

SERENA (CONT'D)So the next king, Agaja, made the elephant huntresses his palace guards.

(then)And under their current king, Guezo, they became soldiers. Equal to men.

As Zolani takes that in, they suddenly hear... SNAP-- The CRACK of the amazon officer’s switch.

10.

OFFICERBow before the Commander.

The captives all take a knee in the dirt. After a beat, Serena looks up... to find SOFI staring down at her.

SOFIYou.

SERENAHello...

SOFIYou have potential but you are very, very weak.

Zolani looks at Sofi sideways.

SERENAYes. Well...

SOFISo I am assigning you a helper.

(then)Nansica!

From the servants regiment, a sweet 14-year-old girl (NANSICA) with a hunchback comes limping over as fast as she can. She also kneels in the dirt before Sofi.

SOFI (CONT’D)Nansica, I want you to teach this captive what to do when she meets the King.

With that, Sofi returns to the front line. The amazon officer whistles and the captives resume their marching.

NANSICA(dignified)

The Commander wants me to teach you what to do because I have already met the King... He said I would make a fine ahosi one day.

SERENAAhosi?

NANSICAA warrior bride!

Off Serena and Zolani, sharing a look--

11.

EXT. ABOMEY - SINGBOJI PALACE - DAY

Beyond golden flatlands and tropical rainforests, we find the center of the Abomey Kingdom. SINGBOJI PALACE. A city within a city, Singboji is guarded (by more amazons) at the gates, and surrounded by high walls of blood-red laterite mud -- the ubiquitous soil of the country. Inside are round glossy buildings, embellished with murals and bas-reliefs. On this day, the pathways in the interlinked courtyards are crowded. Officials stroll the grounds, while villagers shop in the marketplace. From here, we go inside to find--

INT. ROYAL RESIDENCES - AUDIENCE ROOM - DAY

KING GUEZO (44, extremely charismatic, intellectual) is in mid-meeting. Chatting with his cabinet of MINISTERS.

GUEZOProud behavior, everyone. The English anthropologist is coming tomorrow. He is writing a book about us. He can add Lefu, now, to my army’s unblemished record.

(then)Ruben, I need you to unlock the treasure house. And pick out some gifts for the Englishman's wife. As well as my army. I cannot greet them empty-handed.

Guezo's right-hand man, RUBEN (28), steps forward. (He is very handsome and tall, but hiding sadness.)

RUBENAs you wish, King. But, may I suggest a more valuable gift for the army?

A skeptical look crosses Guezo’s face as he leans against his ivory throne. Motions for Ruben to proceed.

RUBEN (CONT’D)A reprieve. From fighting. Let them stay at home and train for a spell, before sending them out again.

GUEZOWhy? They are stronger than ever. They carry a great deal of forward momentum, and we--

12.

RUBENLefu was their tenth offensive in a year.

Guezo pauses.

GUEZONo one can reproach the crocodile for catching fish.

RUBENI just never understood why Lefu was targeted in the first place. They are not Yoruban...

GUEZOAny village that refuses to pay annual tribute to us is an enemy.

RUBENAnd you feel Lefu owes us a tribute... Why, specifically?

Guezo darkens.

GUEZOAre you an unbeliever, Ruben?

RUBENNo. You know I am not--

Ruben changes course.

RUBEN (CONT’D)I believe in our sacred rights... in Abomey’s destiny. All I am saying is, the army would benefit from rest.

GUEZOHm.

Ruben takes a deep breath, frustrated.

RUBENMaybe you shouldn’t call me an “advisor” when you never listen to my advice.

GUEZORuben, I will do as you suggest, and keep the army home. Because I value your friendship. And our brotherhood.

13.

(MORE)

(then)And because I do not have any campaigns planned yet... Just a scouting party. Kashka?

Guezo’s nephew (KASHKA, 20, shaved head) is introduced.

KASHKAI leave today for Porto Novo. Then Shabe, and then west to Abeokuta. In disguise as a palm oil trader.

(then)You can trust me on this mission, Uncle.

Just then, a pretty man hustles in (wearing make-up and a satin robe). This is TUNONU, the amazons’ chaperone.

TUNONUThe army is here!

GUEZOSooner than we expected. A wonderful surprise.

Ruben forces a smile. Off BELLS ringing--

EXT. ROYAL RESIDENCES - DAY

--Small silver bells, rung by servants, announcing the amazons' arrival. The crowd parts as Sofi strides forward. Koko behind her to the right. Serena and Nansica follow.

NANSICAThey are not allowed to look at us.

Nansica is referring to the MEN IN THE CROWD, who turn and face the other way as they pass.

SERENASo the bells are a warning...

NANSICAThat we belong to one man, and one man only.

Off Serena, nerves fraying--

INT. PALACE HALL - MOMENTS LATER

The ministers BOW to Sofi and Koko, keeping their heads very low. While King Guezo first embraces...

14.

GUEZO (CONT'D)

GUEZOSofi, the flower of my force.

--And then Koko, kissing her cheek.

GUEZO (CONT’D)My dark queen.

When the bells stop ringing, the ministers look up. On Ruben, as he quickly finds... Koko. Koko sees him too. Flushes. Looks away. A lot of tension in that one glance.

GUEZO (CONT’D)What happened?

Guezo is touching Koko’s bandaged shoulder.

KOKOI was shot, Husband.

Ruben’s eyes rake Koko...

SOFIAnd even then, she took out eight Lefu guards.

GUEZOI believe she did.

Guezo holds Koko’s face in his hands. Gently. He adores this woman.

GUEZO (CONT’D)Such strength coupled with beauty. Such incredible passion. I see it in these piercing green eyes.

Ruben swallows hard.

SOFILefu was not hard-fought, Husband. But there were some casualties--

GUEZO(interrupting)

What about the captives?

Sofi nods. Ever obedient.

SOFIThere are thirty of them. One is Lefu royalty. I brought her here to show you...

15.

Nansica nudges Serena, who comes forward and prostrates herself on the floor.

GUEZOShe is very pretty.

SOFIYou may speak now, captive.

Serena stands, takes a deep breath, and looks at King Guezo.

SERENAI beg your favor, King. To spare us from sacrifice. Me and my women.

GUEZOI am sorry to tell you, princess, that Customs begins in two days. The parades and the ceremonies. And tradition demands our ancestors be mollified with the blood of our enemies... It would be a noble death for you, at least.

Serena looks at Sofi out of the corner of her eye before continuing.

SERENAKing Guezo, from everything I heard, I understand you are the tallest tree, on which birds find refuge.

Guezo is delighted she’s heard that.

SERENA (CONT’D)(then)

I am hoping you will let us join your army, so we can fight on your side. Fight for Abomey. We wish to be amazon soldiers.

Guezo approaches Serena, an inch away from her face.

GUEZOWe will see if you deserve it.

Guezo signals Sofi, and the amazons file out. But before exiting, Koko meets Ruben's eyes again. Stealthily, he follows her--

16.

EXT. COURTYARD COVE - SUNSET

--into a hidden cove.

RUBENHow did you get hit?

KOKOIt is just a scrape.

Koko tries to leave. But Ruben puts an arm in front of her.

KOKO (CONT’D)You shouldn’t corner me here. Where everyone can see us.

RUBENI am not afraid.

(then)I missed you.

Off this conversation, we cut to a POV across the garden--

EXT. COURTYARD - DAY

Serena and Nansica have spotted them in this intimate moment.

SERENANansica, why is that man allowed to speak privately with the lieutenant?

NANSICARuben is the minister of trade. Very important. But also, he and Koko were childhood friends. And promised to each other.

(then)That is, before King Guezo discovered Koko could fight. Then he married her instead.

SERENA(re: Ruben)

But Koko once... loved him?

SOFI is here, having overheard this conversation. She answers for Nansica.

SOFIKoko loves the King.

(then)And she loves being a warrior, and the freedom that comes with it.

17.

But when Sofi turns back to see them, she is not sure--

ON RUBEN AND KOKO

Koko’s ebony cheeks are reddened.

RUBENYou have to be more careful in battle, Koko. You need to focus, trust your reflexes, be swift...

KOKOI do not need lessons in combat from you.

RUBENI know what I am talking about. And I know you better than him.

KOKOPlease let me go.

Koko finally gets away, leaving Ruben breathless.

EXT. BARRACKS - EVENING

Tunonu leads the captives into the BARRACKS, situated on palace grounds.

SERENAI could never have imagined this.

Serena is awed by the 18-foot walls enclosing them.

TUNONU(joking)

More Abomean men have lost their lives climbing these walls than were killed in battle.

Moving on, past amazons eating dinner in the MESS HALL, polishing weapons in the ARMORY, and servants waiting on the advance guard's horses in the STABLES.

TUNONU (CONT’D)(noting)

Horses share first-class status with the amazons here. There are so few of them...

They continue past long buildings, divided into 80 rooms that sleep 10. They stop at the captives’ room. Above the door is a symbol of a watery shrub. Serena stares at it.

18.

TUNONU (CONT’D)That is the army’s most important deity. Chastity.

(then)Go to sleep. Tomorrow is a big day for you. The King has accepted your offer... To be tested.

But Serena and Zolani are not relieved. They are, in fact, much more anxious. Zolani especially.

ZOLANIWhat kind of tests...?

But Tunonu excuses himself. Leaving the captives unanswered.

INT. BARRACKS - SERENA’S ROOM - NIGHT

As Serena and Zolani settle in, Nansica appears at the door.

SERENANansica! Come in!

NANSICAJust for a minute. There is a strict sundown curfew in the barracks... in all of Abomey, actually.

ZOLANIWhatever for?

NANSICAIt keeps the amazons from drinking too much... And it controls crime in the village.

Serena puts two and two together.

SERENANansica, are there any single women left in the village, for men to marry?

Nansica shakes her head.

NANSICAEvery village girl is born the King’s bride.

ZOLANIBut, what are Abomey men expected to do...?

19.

NANSICAThey are farmers, mostly.

ZOLANINo, I mean, without companionship?

NANSICACompanionship...? I don’t understand that Lefu word.

Off Serena and Zolani, old enough to know... WE HEAR: Brrrreeeeeeeeet!

INT. BARRACKS - SERENA’S ROOM - NIGHT

Malaika sounds her high-pitched whistle. It's well before dawn. Serena sees combat dress has been laid out for them.

EXT. BARRACKS - MORNING

The advance guard lines up the captives in very straight order. Sofi inspects them. Koko paces by Serena.

KOKOIf you are lucky... And you pass the tests, you will be recruited into the army.

AMARUTraining will be your religion.

Amaru shows them the main army across camp -- running in formation -- holding their muskets above their heads.

MALAIKAAnd you will be married to the King, a very handsome man.

SERENAAnd if we are not lucky...?

ZOLANIIf we fail the tests...?

KOKOThen you are meaningless.

Serena and Zolani glance at each other. Rattled.

PADOMAYFirst test. Running. Only the five fastest will eat morning meal.

20.

Koko struts past Serena. Spits in the dirt before her. Off Serena, so that’s how it will be--

EXT. ABOMEY WOODS - DAY

Serena tries hard, but she is new to physical endurance. She is second to last in the footrace. Zolani is last.

ZOLANII need water.

Zolani doubles over, wheezing and coughing.

SERENAKeep going, Zolani--

At this moment, Koko rides by on her horse. Calls out Serena.

KOKOAw, what’s wrong, princess? You can’t go anywhere unless you are carried there on your gold palate?

Koko keeps riding, but Sofi rides by too -- and sees Serena grab Zolani’s hand, and pull her forward.

PRELAP: Maaaaaaaah.

EXT. BARRACKS - MIDDAY

A lone GOAT in front of a clay wall. Target practice.

The captives are 20 yards out from it, holding smoothbore, muzzle-loaded, flintlock muskets (the standard weaponry of the amazons.) They use bits of iron, in place of bullets.

KOKOFire!

--But Serena can’t fire. She can't even get the damn thing loaded. Butterfingers, she drops it on the ground.

KOKO (CONT’D)Why are you taking so long?

Serena mumbles a response...

KOKO (CONT’D)What? I cannot understand anything you say with that thick, inbred accent of yours.

Serena eyes Koko.

21.

KOKO (CONT’D)Do not look at me! Shoot the goat!

Another beat before Serena gets the musket loaded... Serena’s new shadow, Nansica, is here. She whispers a tip--

NANSICAPress the trigger. Don’t pull.

Serena finally shoots... POW! And misses by a foot.

KOKOYou are a disaster.

Nansica pats Serena on her shoulder-- While Koko crosses over to where Padomay stands.

PADOMAYI cannot figure it out.

KOKOWhat?

PADOMAYWhy do you hate that girl?

KOKOShe is spoiled. She thinks she is better than everyone!

Koko watches Sofi, watching Serena--

KOKO (CONT’D)The real question is... Why does the Commander love her so much?

Off Koko, stewing--

GUEZO (PRELAP)It is wonderful to have you here.

INT. AUDIENCE ROOM - DAY

Guezo and Ruben warmly welcome the Anthropologist (RIDGEWAY) and his wife (LADY RIDGEWAY). They are stunned by the palace’s beauty. Lady Ridgeway runs her hand across the smooth, WHITEWASHED WALLS.

RUBENMade from the milk of kaolin clay, a local resource.

Ridgeway eyes an intricate sun wheel on a stone pedestal.

22.

RIDGEWAYExtraordinary.

GUEZOI would like to take credit for that. But Singboji’s artistry is the handiwork of ten reigns of Abomean kings before me.

RUBENShall we continue with the tour?

EXT. COURTESAN HALL - DAY

Guezo and Ruben show the visitors a separate quarters filled with COURTESANS, young women dressed prettily in gowns. They are making indigo dye, doing pottery, and weaving mats.

RUBENThese are the mistresses of the court. This is their residence.

LADY RIDGEWAYArchibald, look--

Lady Ridgeway points to several courtesans who have rounded bellies. And some holding small children.

LADY RIDGEWAY (CONT’D)So many of them are with child!

RIDGEWAYWhile the amazons are at war, these “mistresses” must be tasked with repopulating the kingdom.

Guezo and Ruben share a look. Ridgeway isn’t far off.

RIDGEWAY (CONT’D)Excuse me, King Guezo, when will we get to meet the amazon army?

GUEZOAt the parades. Like everyone else.

One of the courtesans (CANDIS) runs up to Ruben, flirtatious.

CANDISRuben, may I walk with you?

Ruben looks uninterested, but allows her to take his arm.

23.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE BARRACKS - DAY

Sofi and Koko go over the schedule with Tunonu.

TUNONUI have to pull the army out of drills to rehearse for the parade.

SOFIIs that necessary?

Tunonu references King Guezo and the Ridgeways touring the other side of the courtyard--

TUNONUThe King wants to show off his army to his guests. Why not indulge him?

Here, Koko sees RUBEN... and the COURTESAN hanging on his arm. Koko’s body shakes. She is physically racked with jealousy.

TUNONU (CONT’D)What is the matter with you, Lieutenant?

Sofi clears her throat. Koko snaps out of her trance.

KOKOI am fine.

When Tunonu exits, Sofi grabs Koko by her arm. Angrily.

SOFIYou stupid girl. What does our husband’s best man have over you?

KOKOIt is nothing, Commander.

SOFIDo not lie to me. I can feel the heat coming off both your bodies whenever you are in a room together. Everybody can! It is like hellfire.

Koko can’t deny that.

SOFI (CONT’D)You were asking about your friend. Effia. Do you want to know where she is?

24.

(MORE)

(off Koko’s look)She has been jailed. For pregnancy. One of the courtesans found her out.

KOKOOne of the courtesans...? I knew it. I knew they were spying on us.

SOFIForget them, Koko! Remember yourself! Remember your solemn oath. All our rewards, all our privileges...

Sofi pauses. Upset. Wanting to share something--

SOFI (CONT’D)There is a great evil coming, Koko. I have felt it. And I cannot stop it by myself. So I need you at your best. I need my second in command to be clear-headed--

KOKOA great evil? What great evil?

A beat. Sofi can’t find the words to explain it...

KOKO (CONT’D)Is that why you dote on the Lefu princess? Will she replace me as your new lieutenant because you are imagining some... love affair I’m having? Are you that lonely?

Sofi hauls off and SLAPS Koko in the face.

SOFII am not imagining anything. I am trying to save your life.

Off Koko, her emotions having betrayed her--

END ACT ONE

25.

SOFI (CONT’D)

ACT TWO

EXT. BARRACKS - OBSTACLE COURSE - DAY

Serena and Zolani alternately CRAWL under ropes, SPRINT across trenches, and SCALE rocks. The advance guard at the finish line urges them forward.

MALAIKATo the wall!

AMARUGet to the wall!

Out of breath, Serena recognizes “the wall” is the last obstacle... An acacia thornbush fence she must leap over. Spiked needles the size of your arm.

SERENAThat is impassable.

Sofi has been watching Serena. She draws closer and directs Serena’s attention to the scars on her own legs.

SOFILook at me. These scars are our beauty marks. They give us strength.

(then)Separate the fear. Make it obey you.

(then)Go, soldier! Do it now!

Serena takes a deep breath, then runs, and HURDLES herself over the thornbush, collapsing at the end. Winded but exuberant. Sofi is very pleased.

SERENA(smiling)

I got cut, but I didn’t even feel it.

NANSICA runs to Serena with a huge hug.

NANSICAI knew you could do it!

KOKO sees Serena too, but is not inspired. Then...

ON ZOLANI. Having followed Serena over the thornbush, her thighs are torn and bleeding. But Zolani can only exude disgust... at Serena’s enthusiasm.

26.

LATER

Breeeeeeeeet! Malaika's whistle. The tired captives stand side by side before the advance guard.

SOFIToday was a disappointment... We think you can do better tomorrow.

SERENAMay we have dinner now?

KOKONo. Dinner is over. You have to run faster if you want to eat.

The captives groan. Miserable and hungry.

INT. BARRACKS - MESS HALL - EVENING

Amaru leads the army in prayer. The captives listen on, diligently, trying to keep their eyes open.

AMARUWhen an amazon dies, she does not have to cross any rivers, or climb any mountains to get to heaven. She is immediately received by her guardian spirits.

On Sofi, considering Serena.

SOFIIn other words, war is glory. Death is your friend.

SERENAWhat about torture? Torture is no one’s friend. In Lefu, when the king captures enemies, he tortures them for weeks... in public.

AMARUSo, do not get captured.

SOFIAnd if you do, kill yourself.

Off Serena. Grim.

EXT. BARRACKS - GARDENS - NIGHT

Serena and Nansica walk back through the gardens to their rooms. A smell of African night lavender sweetens the air.

27.

SERENATell me about Sofi. Where did she come from?

Nansica's eyes sparkle, as she shares her story...

NANSICAThe Commander was once a great leopardess, who ruled the jungle. Until one day, King Guezo hunted her down, and bewitched by her, he asked a great wizard to transform her into a devout woman.

FLASH TO: A mother LEOPARD in the wild, cuddling her sleepy baby cubs...

NANSICA (CONT’D)But once human, she could not keep her cubs. Vultures came and carried them away. And she was sad for a long time. She wanted to be a mother again. So King Guezo laid with her during a lightning storm. And she gave birth to hundreds of lizards, that suckled from the veins in her feet. And worshipped her.

Off Serena, already asleep in her cot, dreaming of lizards...

EXT. RUBEN'S HOUSE - NIGHT

Ruben's small clay house lies on the outskirts of Singboji. He is in bed when he hears a stir. He jumps up, grabs a KNIFE, ready for the invader-- But it is Koko.

RUBENYour shoulder is bleeding...

KOKO(moving past him)

Where is she?

Koko searches inside Ruben’s room.

RUBENWho?

KOKOThe whore I saw you with today. She is the one missing curfew, and I mean to arrest her.

28.

Koko’s search comes up empty.

RUBENShe is not here. But she has certain privileges, Koko. She can spend the night. If I cared.

Koko folds her arms. She has no reason to stay, but she can’t make herself leave. Ruben is on to her.

RUBEN (CONT’D)If I can’t have you, you can’t stop me from taking someone else to bed.

KOKOYes I can.

RUBENWhat do you want, Koko? For me to be celibate the rest of my life while you make love to another man?

KOKOIt has been a long time since Guezo has chosen me for that. I do not give him reason to.

(then)All day, I am holding on to our memories, Ruben... Of that time. That one time. In the waterfall.

Ruben swallows. He remembers.

KOKO (CONT’D)But I am losing hold--

Ruben takes Koko in his arms, and kisses her deeply. Then frantically. Koko moans in pleasure... scorchingly hot.

When suddenly, another woman’s voice outside--

CANDIS (O.C.)Ruben, it’s meeee! Can I come in for a drink of your burgundy wine?

Koko and Ruben pull away from each other. It’s painful. Koko tries to leave, but Ruben locks her in, against his chest. And YELLS out the door--

RUBENGo away, Candis! I told you I am in no mood for company!

29.

CANDIS (O.C.)(singing)

I do not believe you!

Koko takes Ruben’s hands off her body. Pleading with him, with her eyes... And as she ducks through the window--

RUBENI am dead without you, Koko.

But she is gone.

EXT. BARRACKS - NEXT DAY

The final test. After another long day of drills. We see two captives PITTED against each other in a wrestling match. The officers cheer them on.

MALAIKANow is your chance!

PADOMAYBring her down!

One captive successfully pins the other.

SOFINow take her hand.

The winner and loser grab each other’s wrists and shake. Their adrenalin is pumping quite a bit, and they feel good. Sofi gestures to SERENA and ZOLANI.

SOFI (CONT’D)You two, next.

Reluctantly, Serena and Zolani are SMEARED in palm oil before entering the ring. Then, just as Serena gets in “ready” stance, Zolani CHARGES her, striking Serena in the gut.

AMARUNice one!

MALAIKAIt’s always good to use the element of surprise.

Serena looks up at Zolani, startled first... Then angry.

ZOLANIWell? What did you--

(then)Ooomph!

30.

Serena TACKLES Zolani and sends her to the ground like a hammer. On Zolani, OUCH.

Zolani fights back harder in the next round. Pinching Serena and yanking her hair and stomping on her feet. Heated, Serena's final move is to wrap up Zolani in a DOUBLE LEG SNATCH. When suddenly... PLONK! Zolani's KNEECAP POPS OUT of its socket. Zolani cries out in agony.

SERENAForgive me, Zolani...

But Sofi is happy with Serena--

SOFIGood work, captive. That was a skillful progression.

SERENA(to Zolani)

It was an accident...

Sofi approaches Zolani, and FORCES her kneecap back into place. Zolani sobs in pain. When Serena tries to help Zolani stand up, she smacks her hands away.

ZOLANIGet away from me! Do not talk to me! Go be with them!

Off Serena, guilt-ridden--

LATER

Lined up, but barely standing, the captives are exhausted. Sofi lets Koko do the talking.

KOKOIt’s time to announce which of you will be recruited.

On Serena. Moment of truth...

KOKO (CONT’D)We have word from our King.

On Zolani. Waiting to be condemned...

KOKO (CONT’D)You all made it in.

The captives react. Did they just hear that right?

31.

AMARUYou will be inducted into our military.

PADOMAYAnd then you will be married to our Husband.

MALAIKASo make yourselves pretty as possible. Bathe first. Then dress in the wraps we have for you.

Serena looks at Sofi for confirmation... but Sofi looks away. Off Serena, confused--

GUEZO (PRELAP)Diviner, begin.

INT. AUDIENCE ROOM - DAY

The recruits’ induction. Wearing colorful pagnes and jeweled headbands, they are presented to King Guezo. (The Ridgeways are allowed to view.) Amaru, the Diviner, wields a scalpel.

AMARUWe must bind you together.

Amaru makes an incision in Serena’s left arm, catching her blood in a gold cup.

LADY RIDGEWAYArchibald, they’re going to bleed to death!

Ridgeway quiets his wife... Amaru proceeds, collecting each recruit’s blood the same way.

AMARUYou will be reborn.

Amaru mixes the cup with powder and alcohol, then brings it around to each recruit to drink. Serena first.

AMARU (CONT’D)Your lineage begins and ends with us now. Abomey is where you belong.

The last recruit drinks from the cup.

AMARU (CONT’D)Lay your eyes on your King, and repeat after me...

32.

(MORE)

(then)I will never betray you.

RECRUITS (IN UNISON)I will never betray you.

Guezo is satisfied. Ridgeway nudges his wife. This is the good part.

AMARUNow say it again to each other.

Serena and Zolani share a short look.

SERENA/ZOLANII will never betray you.

It’s not very heartfelt.

INT. KING'S CHAMBER - EVENING

The recruits’ wedding. Guezo's bedroom is even larger than the rest. Rare fabrics drape the canopied bed. The advance guard and Ruben here. Amaru produces another herbal potion.

AMARUThis drink will help you control your demons.

Serena sniffs the potion and wrinkles her nose. It smells awful.

AMARU (CONT’D)You may no longer recognize an urge to... copulate.

Koko and Ruben eye each other sadly as the recruits drink.

GUEZOBut while indulging in the excitement of war, you will forget your other desires.

SOFI(at Koko)

Bloodshed will gratify your sex drive.

Guezo addresses each recruit, personally, down the line.

GUEZOAhosi, I am beholden to you. You must trust me that I will make you powerful.

33.

AMARU (CONT’D)

(MORE)

And you must never leave me. Because I love you already. And it would break my heart...

(then)Now. Who wants to stay the night?

On Zolani, horrified. But Guezo passes her. Comes to Serena. Lifts her chin, and looks into her eyes.

GUEZO (CONT’D)Hm. I can see your training has been rough. You have not eaten for two days...

(then)Is that right, Koko?

KOKOYes. They had to earn their place.

GUEZOMy dark queen forgets that she once had to be tested too. Tonight, I will remind her what it is like to be a virgin.

(to Koko)Tonight, I will invite my dark queen to sleep here. Do you accept?

Koko first eyes Ruben -- who looks as though he might explode with rage. Koko then sees Sofi -- who silently wills her to accept the situation. She does. Everyone exits the bedroom except Koko.

INT. BARRACKS - SERENA'S ROOM - NIGHT

Darkness has fallen. The amazons asleep. But Serena kneels next to Zolani’s cot.

SERENAI did not want to hurt you.

Zolani turns away from Serena. Hugs her knees.

SERENA (CONT’D)It’s just... the Commander.

(then)She acts... as if she is proud of me, Zolani. I’ve never felt that before, and I want it to continue.

Serena waits for Zolani to reply. A long beat. Then--

34.

GUEZO (CONT'D)

ZOLANII hate it here.

SERENAI know. But you must surrender your old life.

ZOLANIThat is easy for you, Serena. You said yourself, you have no loyalty to Lefu. Because you have nobody there. But I do. I miss my grandfather...

SERENAYou and I are family now.

(then)We will take care of each other.

When Zolani turns to Serena, she is covered in flop sweat.

SERENA (CONT’D)Are you sick?

ZOLANIYes. I have cramping pain...

(re: her belly)Here. Do you know what was in that last potion we drank?

On Serena. Shaking her head.

ZOLANI (CONT’D)Autumn crocus. I know because my cousin once used it after deceiving her husband.

(then)I might have been expecting... but now I will never know.

Serena wipes Zolani’s forehead with a cloth.

SERENAI am so sorry.

(then)But Zolani, none of these other women seem to mind, not having children...

ZOLANIBut that is unnatural! Everything about Abomey is unnatural.

(then)

35.

(MORE)

Aren’t you curious, Serena, why every one of us was inducted into the army? Even me? I am a terrible soldier!

Serena tries to think of an answer.

ZOLANI (CONT’D)It is because “our husband” needs to feed his war machine. We are not immortal. We are expendable! We are pawns. Their whole way of life is based on propaganda. And you have fallen for it!

(then)Wake up, Serena!

Serena can't find the counterargument here. She crawls back to her own cot, crestfallen.

INT. KING’S CHAMBER - NIGHT

Guezo holds Koko softly in his arms. She can’t meet his eyes.

GUEZOWhen we take the coast... Then I will control trade with the whites. And you will be the dark queen who rules West Africa. Sofi -- our goddess. That is what I want. For the whole world to see what I see in you.

(then)What do you want, my love?

Koko hides the tears in her eyes from Guezo. She wants too much. She wants it all. Instead--

KOKOI want you to be happy, Husband.

Guezo is happy. Koko, not much.

EXT. SINGBOJI GUARDTOWER - NIGHT

Ruben is alone on this tower under the moonlight. Staring up into the sky. Contemplative. He might jump to his death. His grief that consuming. When suddenly... he sees a small figure in the darkness. Trying to burrow under the wall. He climbs down from the guardtower, to find... Zolani. Caught in the act.

36.

ZOLANI (CONT'D)

INT. BARRACKS - SERENA’S ROOM - DAYBREAK

Serena wakes to Malaika’s WHISTLE and Tunonu clapping his hands.

TUNONUTime to get ready for the parade!

Serena sees Zolani's empty cot. She grabs Malaika.

SERENAWhere is my friend?

MALAIKA(coldly)

She is not your friend anymore. She is a traitor. Forget her.

Off Serena, alarm bells ringing--

END ACT TWO

37.

ACT THREE

EXT. PALACE COURTYARD - DAY

Nearly all of Abomey and its tributary states are in attendance for the parade. Tunonu directs the show. It's spectacular. First, the King walks through an amazon volley of musket shots, taking his place on a platform with all his guests. Then, booming war-drums are sounded and their line marches in. Ridgeway squints.

RIDGEWAYWhat are those drums made of?

Ruben puts his hand on Ridgeway's shoulder.

RUBENEnemy skulls.

Transfixed, the Ridgeways watch amazons carry rainbow-colored flags, and dip them three times in salute when they near Guezo. Then, a group of amazons TWIRL their muskets, THROW them up in the air, and CATCH them like batons. The amazons elicit thunderous applause from the audience.

INT. HUT - DAY

On Zolani, scared. Trapped in a makeshift jail... when suddenly, her face lights up.

ZOLANISerena!

Serena comes to her, infuriated--

SERENAWhat were you thinking?

Zolani doesn’t answer. She wasn’t thinking. She refers to a man and a WOMAN (20’s, pretty) in the jail with her.

ZOLANIThey say we are going to be executed at the end of Customs. I am not ready to die, Serena!

But before Serena can reply, KOKO blows in.

KOKOImbecile! Nansica saved your life by telling me where you are. You need to be in the parade line NOW.

38.

SERENAIs my friend going to be executed because she was missing her family, missing her life?

Koko pauses. For the first time, pitying Serena.

KOKOThere is a chance she will get amnesty. The King only makes human sacrifices if we are going to war, and right now, that direction is unclear.

SERENABut that is not what you said! You have threatened us with death and sacrifice time and again...

(then)Was that a trick?

Koko seizes Serena by her arm and physically shoves her away.

KOKOThis is not a trick: GO NOW or I will kill you myself!

Serena, disheartened, exits. But as Koko is about to follow her out, she recognizes the other woman in the jail--

KOKO (CONT’D)Effia?

Effia comes to Koko and takes her hands. Warmly.

KOKO (CONT’D)Is it true?

Effia glances at the other man in the jail. Her lover. Their look says it all.

EFFIA(gravely)

I hope Guezo remembers the battles I fought in his name... and gives me amnesty, too. All I ever wanted was to be an amazon. I do not know anything else.

(then)I understand the mistake I made. I needed comfort, Koko. I needed to feel another man’s arms around me before I die.

39.

Off Koko, those words hitting home--

EXT. PARADE - THE DANCE - DAY

In a burst of color and light, the amazons put on a joyous, choreographed dance for the crowd. With a unit playing reed flutes, trumpets made of ivory tusks, and drums -- the amazons jump and dance in perfect sync. With grounded, heavy, oscillating movements, they are remarkable. The crowd goes wild for them.

GUEZOWhy are you not dancing, Sofi?

Guezo is on the platform, with Sofi beside him. Sofi is dressed in a flared skirt, silver-plated chest armor, and a jeweled headpiece. Real rubies. Sofi looks over at RIDGEWAY. Pointedly.

SOFIA nice manhunt would suit me better.

Ridgeway scribbles in his notebook. Guezo waves to the dancers before him...

GUEZOWould like numbers of Englishwomen dance so well?

Lady Ridgeway clears her throat, offended.

LADY RIDGEWAYEnglishwomen dance the waltz.

RIDGEWAYHonestly, King, for such a barbarous continent, your women have marvelous discipline.

Sofi steps closer to Ridgeway. Her headpiece giving her an extra ten inches on him.

SOFIThank you for putting us in your book.

RIDGEWAYYou are welcome. Miss... Missus...

(then)Commander.

40.

Guezo pours Ridgeway another drink, smiling at him. Now he’s getting it.

At this moment, a messenger arrives with word for Guezo. Guezo excuses himself. Off Sofi, curious--

INT. AUDIENCE ROOM - DAY

Kashka is austere with important news.

KASHKAI have come from Imojolu...

GUEZOWe took Imojolu a year ago. Why--

KASHKAI stopped to resupply and heard rumors... Uncle, I am sorry to report, there is a massive rebellion underway!

GUEZOI do not understand. Azekiel, our chief of state in Imojolu...

KASHKA...is dead.

Kashka shows Guezo a cloth map with various features in appliqué.

KASHKA (CONT’D)There are at least 300 armed insurgents staked out in the fortress. They are planning to advance on Abomey in one month!

Off Guezo, gripping the table edge--

GUEZOHow dare they?

INT. BARRACKS - ADVANCE GUARD'S ROOM - LATE AFTERNOON

The advance guard returns to their queenly quarters. Drunk with the rum of ceremonies. They gladly strip their heavy crowns and belts. Sofi is hugely relieved when two servants remove her headpiece.

SOFI(to Koko)

Finally, that ridiculous show of grandeur is over.

41.

KOKONo, Commander, there is still one final ceremony this evening.

Sofi’s shoulders sag.

KOKO (CONT’D)The prisoners’ judgement.

(then)Will Guezo forgive Effia? Will he let her go?

Sofi looks at Koko steadily.

SOFIHe is fair. He does what is best for us. For all of us.

Off Koko, worried--

EXT. TUMULUS OF COURAGE - EVENING

We are on a small, flat hilltop at the edge of Singboji. Just the advance guard, Guezo and his ministers in attendance. Plus the Ridgeways. Guezo steps up to a small mound, affected by Kashka’s news.

GUEZOFrom the Tumulus of Courage, I want to talk about loyalty.

We find SERENA... hiding in the back, spying on the event. Serena squints, searching everywhere to find--

EXT. ADJOURNING COURTYARD - SAME

--Zolani. With Effia and her lover in prisoner-holding, waiting on the King’s decision. Guarded by the twins.

GUEZO (O.C.)Those who are loyal will be compensated.

EXT. TUMULUS OF COURAGE - SAME

On Ruben, eyeing Koko.

GUEZOBut those who plot against us, will perish.

Guezo pauses a beat before his audience. Then--

42.

GUEZO (CONT’D)I am unleashing my army. They go tomorrow to end the insurrection in Imojolu.

On Sofi and Koko sharing a look... And on Ruben, trying not to lose his mind. Guezo has broken his promise.

RUBENWhat is this? We know nothing of an... insurrection! We need to have a plan--

GUEZONo plan! We have an insurmountable army. We send them in and they kill everyone. That is it. They fear neither danger nor death. Why should we?

Ruben, furious, storms away. Koko watches him go...

GUEZO (CONT’D)And therefore, the prisoners will not have amnesty. They must be sacrificed to ensure our war gods’ benevolence.

On Serena. PANICKING. After a moment, she runs off in the direction of the barracks--

Guezo beckons for Amaru. And as she steps up to the mound with her divination tray--

EXT. BARRACKS - SAME

Serena searches for something... Spots it! A lone MUSKET left by the target practice area. Meanwhile--

EXT. TUMULUS OF COURAGE - SAME

Amaru reads a handful of precious gems. Amaru then pauses to glance at the King’s nephew, Kashka. Before making her address. (We will learn why, later. For now, it’s strange.)

AMARUI am pleased to say... We will be successful in Imojolu. If sacrifices are made tonight to honor the Fates, then the Fates will grant Abomey a retributive victory...

43.

GUEZOLet it be. Padomay, bring forth the first prisoners.

As we INTERCUT:

INT. BARRACKS - STABLES - SAME

Serena has snuck into the stables. The horses WHINY, sensing danger. Serena tries to load the musket, fumbling... She can’t do it. Instead, she pours the adulterated powder on the haystack. Grabs two stones, cracks them together-- SPARK! Whoosh! THE HAYSTACK ERUPTS IN FLAMES...

EXT. TUMULUS OF COURAGE - SAME

Effia and her lover are brought in. Bravely, they don't fight. Effia, in fact, is at peace.

Death is her friend.

But Sofi sees Koko is struggling for composure. Covertly, she takes Koko's hand.

SOFIShe is not sad. Do not be sad for her.

A JUDGE approaches Effia, holding a small knife--

The courtyard is silent... The Ridgeways can't look away--

The Judge PUNCTURES Effia's throat, and RIPS the knife sideways, cutting her carotid artery. He does the same to her lover. It's mercifully swift, but still dreadful as Effia's body drops in a heap, and her lover’s, and their blood flows into the dirt. On Koko. Steeling herself.

JUST THEN...

An amazon runs into the yard.

AMAZONCommander! Help!

Sofi and the whole group react. What is it? The amazon flags a plume of black smoke coming from the barracks.

AMAZON (CONT’D)The stables are on fire!

Everyone goes running to save the horses--

44.

EXT. BARRACKS - STABLES - SAME

The amazons are relieved to discover the horses are FREE, and safe, but galloping amok in the barracks. As Koko tracks down the horses, whistling for them to settle, Sofi takes charge of the fire.

SOFIFollow me!

Behind Sofi, every amazon grabs a large bowl from the kitchen area, then lines up quickly, single-file from the WELL to the STABLES, and goes to work pumping water.

LATER...

The amazons are covered in soot, but the fire is out. Guezo finds his Commander in the aftermath.

GUEZOI am postponing the third sacrifice. Customs is officially over.

(then)So this is our goodbye.

Sofi dips her head in salute.

GUEZO (CONT’D)Win back Imojolu.

(then)And bring me more recruits. Every one of them counts. Every one of them could be as strong as you one day.

SOFII will not fail you.

GUEZOI love you, Sofi.

Guezo kisses her goodnight and retires. Koko and Amaru bring Sofi an update.

KOKOThe horses have been rounded up except one.

Sofi spots Padomay half-carrying Malaika toward them.

SOFIWhat happened?

45.

MALAIKA(rubbing her head)

The princess recruit came out of nowhere. She escaped with her prisoner friend.

(then)I let you down, Commander.

SOFIYou did no such thing.

KOKO(thinking)

Our guards at the south gate were redirected to put out the fire...

SOFI(to a servant)

Saddle my horse. (then)

Disobedience must not be allowed in the ranks.

KOKOWhat can I do, Commander?

SOFIMake sure every unit is fed and asleep by nightfall. We have a long journey tomorrow.

And off Koko, as Sofi rides away--

EXT. ABOMEY - NIGHT

Serena and Zolani are stopped at a DEEP BLUE MOAT outside Singboji. They stare incredulously into the water at--

SERENAI rescued you, Zolani, just to become someone’s dinner.

CROCODILES. Hundreds, splashing around hungry. After a beat, Zolani turns to her friend.

ZOLANII am sorry, Serena.

(then)I know you would have been happy in the army. I appreciate everything you are giving up for me.

This, as they’re startled by--

46.

SOFI (O.C.)You have something of mine?

Serena and Zolani see there is nowhere to run. Serena hands Sofi the musket and the horse's rein.

SERENAI stole them, Commander. I hit Malaika. And I set fire to the stables.

(then)But I could not let my friend be sacrificed for your gods. They are not her gods. They are not mine either.

(then)We do not belong here.

SOFII agree.

On Serena. Really? Sofi discloses a narrow path nearby.

SOFI (CONT’D)Follow this past the palm tree grove, and you will come to a small bridge that crosses over the moat. Lefu is straight east from there.

SERENAYou are letting us go?

We PUSH IN on Serena's face as Sofi explains her reasoning...

SOFII am not a seer. I never had that gift. But not long ago, I was sleeping... and I had a vision of a princess, leading an army.

Serena reacts. Her eyes dart back and forth. Possibly, Serena has had the same dream.

SOFI (CONT’D)I dreamed that she would rise, and save us all from a great evil that is coming... It is coming, whatever it is. And it wants to wipe out our entire existence.

(at Serena)When I met you, you were fearless. You tried to kill me with my own weapon, and I thought then, you were the one. But I was wrong.

47.

Serena lets out a nervous laugh.

SERENAI am not a... a savior.

Zolani puts her hand on Serena’s arm.

ZOLANIYes you are, Serena.

Serena is suddenly overcome...

SOFISo, go. And never come back. Because if you are given the chance to become an amazon, and you turn it away, then you are a fool.

All at once, Serena can’t catch her breath... She looks into Sofi’s eyes to steady herself. She sees her own reflection there is tinted cobalt blue. And a bit distorted. Serena hears the echoes of the crocodiles snapping their jaws... And after a long moment, she turns to Zolani--

SERENAI do not want to be a fool.

ZOLANIBut I do.

SERENAGoodbye, my friend.

ZOLANIGoodbye.

Off Serena, as Zolani vanishes into the night--

INT. BARRACKS - SERENA'S ROOM - NIGHT

The amazons are fast asleep when Sofi drops Serena off--

SERENAThank you for your mercy.

SOFIProve your gratitude. Be a leader to your women in Imojolu.

Sofi gives Serena the IVORY bracelet from her wrist.

SOFI (CONT’D)This will protect you. It always protected me.

48.

Off Serena, hoping she made the right choice--

INT. BARRACKS - ADVANCE GUARD'S ROOM - NIGHT

Koko is awake in her cot. Tossing. Too hot to sleep.

INT. RUBEN'S HOUSE - NIGHT

Koko sneaks into Ruben's house. But before she makes it through the door, he's upon her...

KOKOI may never see you again.

It's all Ruben can do, not to erupt when he touches her. But he kisses Koko gently, up against the wall. Craving each moment. And Koko, her whole life up to this -- all the hardness of a warrior -- it melts away as Ruben pulls back her battledress. She lifts her long legs around him, and he comes intensely inside her... Every thrust making Koko break apart, and float off in a million pieces.

END OF ACT THREE

49.

ACT FOUR

EXT. IMOJOLU FOREST - NIGHT

Sofi and her advance guard in combat dress. Their weapons strapped on. Their arms and faces painted in MUD.

SOFIThe wind is up at our backs...

KASHKA has come along too, for guidance.

SOFI (CONT’D)Based on Kashka’s information, the insurgent guards are stationed ninety metres apart.

(to Koko)Get inside, move left with the second, tell Malaika to move right, I will be up the middle with the third.

Sofi breaks the huddle. At this moment, Padomay notices Koko has been... smiling?

PADOMAYWhat has gotten into you?

KOKOJust anticipating some fresh kills.

BEHIND THE ADVANCE GUARD...

The main army clusters close together in small groups. They drink rations of rum mixed with gun powder. They swipe away each other’s mosquitoes. And they check each other’s weapons. Each one has the next one’s back.

BEHIND THE MAIN ARMY...

Serena is pensive. Unconsciously twirling her bracelet. Faithful Nansica by her side. The other recruits clumsily practice swinging their battle-axes. KOKO arrives to give them their orders.

KOKO (CONT’D)You will enter the fortress last. But while the main army engages the enemy, you will be essential to our victory here...

(then)You will locate the Imojolu women, and rescue them from servitude. Then deliver them to your King.

50.

When Koko leaves, Serena turns to Nansica. Understanding.

SERENAShe means, just as we--

(re: the recruits)--were rescued and delivered.

Nansica nods. Serena sighs. Then she sees the recruits’ faces, and recognizes the fear. Serena approaches each one, resolutely.

SERENA (CONT’D)Good luck. Stay out of harm’s way. See you on the other side.

Off the recruits, grateful for the encouragement--

EXT. IMOJOLU FORTRESS - DAYBREAK

The field outside the Imojolu fortress is QUIET. Until we hear the first cock's crow. And then... the grass begins to move. We see the amazons SLITHERING on their stomachs towards the fortress walls.

With MACHETES CLUTCHED in their TEETH, they PUSH their loaded muskets out in front of them.

At the wall, the amazons probe, until finally Amaru finds an opening. She signals the others by touch, and they enter--

INT. IMOJOLU FORTRESS - DAWN

Sofi and Koko are out in the open. It’s peaceful here... Until... BLITZ! A pack of fifty insurgents SPRINT TOWARDS the amazons, bellowing like coyotes--

KOKOHere we go.

Sofi and Koko make first contact. Shooting and slicing. The main army mimics them, and twenty insurgents are SLAUGHTERED in an orgy of violence-- However, the other thirty insurgents RUN RIGHT PAST the amazons and head for the gate, exiting the fortress!

Sofi and Koko share a look. That was peculiar.

Sofi directs a small group of amazons--

SOFIChase down those deserters.

The rest of the advance guard huddles with Sofi.

51.

MALAIKAI am confused.

KOKOI am disappointed.

KOKOWhere are the 300 rebel insurgents we were promised?

Kashka, the scout, shrugs.

KASHKAMaybe they fled? They are a cowardly people.

PADOMAYWhat do you think, Commander?

On Sofi as her mind races...

SOFIThey might have left for Abomey early. Although we would have passed somewhere along the border.

Sofi decides.

SOFI (CONT’D)It does not matter now.

(to Koko)Station the main army at each gate. Thirty troops thick. Tell the recruits to search every civilian compound as quickly as possible. We need to get home, but we need to have captives in hand -- or our Husband will be severely disappointed.

Their mission clear--

INT. IMOJOLU FORTRESS - MORNING

Minutes later, Serena finds Sofi in the fortress square.

SERENAThe compounds are empty, Commander. Of men and women.

MALAIKA(from behind)

There are only rats in the halls. The livestock is gone.

52.

KOKO(approaching)

There are spider webs in the entryways. No one lives here.

On Sofi. Struggling to make sense of it... She calls for the Diviner--

SOFIAmaru!

No answer.

SOFI (CONT’D)Amaru!!

KOKOWhere did she go?

Sofi looks around.

SOFIAnd where is Kashka? Where is the King’s nephew?

KOKO(a sinking feeling)

They have both disappeared?

And it’s now, the tables turn on the amazons and the nightmare begins. It’s an ambush.

HUNDREDS OF YORUBAN FIGHTERS BURST THROUGH EVERY GUARDGATE AND COME POURING IN... The amazon army, even thirty bodies thick, is no match for them. Like an invasion of locusts, the Yorubans TRAMPLE EVERY AMAZON in their way.

Then, the Yorubans form a semi-circle, and start FIRING their guns at them. All at once. MOWING the amazons DOWN like a game at a carnival.

We follow SERENA. Who sees EVERY RECRUIT in her unit take a bullet. Some in the head, but most in the back because they’re running away.

SERENAHeaven, take us.

Serena only survives the first wave of gunfire because she TRIPS over another recruit’s dead body and ROLLS, landing behind a stone bench.

Hyperventilating, she peeps around the bench to see--

53.

Mass amazon casualties. Most of them from the main army. But also... MALAIKA. The twin is shot in the chest then STABBED in the belly by a Yoruban infantryman.

Meanwhile, KOKO has no time to reload her musket. She uses it like a warclub to SMASH a Yoruban’s head off... Before running into PADOMAY. Over the noise, Padomay tries to inform her--

PADOMAYThey knew! They have been instructed! Malaika is--

POW. Padomay gets HIT with musket shot INTO her left ear; that EXPLODES through her right. She dies in Koko’s arms.

We then find--

SOFI. Valiantly staving off four Yoruban infantrymen in hand-to-hand combat. But she is too preoccupied to notice a lone Yoruban GUNMAN reloading his musket nearby. He is going to take her out.

On Serena. She sees Sofi is trapped. She has to do something. Serena crawls out from behind the bench like a crab to one of the fallen Yorubans. She hears a bullet WHIZ by her head from another direction-- She grabs the Yoruban’s musket. Looks inside it--

SERENANot loaded!

Serena’s hands sweat as she tries to reload it. She looks up... sees the gunman now has Sofi DEAD TO RIGHTS. Another bullet FLIES by her head. Serena crab-crawls behind a tree. Tries again. It has to work now. She is OUT OF TIME. And finally... click. Serena takes aim at the gunman. She presses the trigger... and... pow. Got him.

Sofi and Koko meet up, having both seen Serena make the shot.

SOFII knew it.

The Commander is then forced to communicate a silent message to Koko. It’s heart-breaking. They cup their hands and sound their shrillest WHISTLE, making the order clear:

FALL BACK.

Sofi, Koko and Serena start running for the gates. In order to gather as many WOUNDED as they can, they have to separate.

Then, uh-oh... Serena’s bad luck rears its ugly head.

54.

She is SMACKED in the face by a giant Bushwillow tree branch and FALLS back, getting her tiny, slippered heel STUCK in a python hole. She calls out--

SERENAWait! Please wait for me!

Sofi hears Serena and DOUBLES BACK FOR HER, freeing her from the snake hole. Then they run together. Serena sees the few hundred amazons in front of them clear the gate...

...JUST AS they are CUT OFF by ten more Yorubans.

SERENA (CONT’D)What now?

Sofi grabs Serena by her shoulders.

SOFIYou will save many others. And the King.

(then)Protect your Husband, the King.

And with that, Sofi RUSHES the Yorubans, creating a diversion for Serena to pull out. But Serena can’t. She is frozen in fear for her mentor.

On Koko, watching this, but too far away with the retreating forces to help--

KOKOCommander, no!

Sofi butchers two more Yorubans, first, before getting SHOT in the thigh, sending her to her knees. Then, when Sofi lifts her giant cleaver to strike, a Yoruban brings his sword down faster. Sofi’s right arm is SEVERED. A second mortal wound. But Sofi, still fighting, takes one last look at Serena before using the knife in her left hand to STAB another Yoruban...

The rest of the Yorubans have no choice but to pile-on Sofi to keep her down. And finally--

--the great amazon commander fades away in a cloud of dust.

On Serena, crying. Clutching the bracelet Sofi gave her.

--Until she feels someone grab a fistful of her hair and literally DRAG HER OFF backwards. It’s KOKO, having reached Serena just in time. Together, they clear the gate.

55.

EXT. CUOFO RIVER - DAY

The battered army rests besides fresh water on their way home to Abomey. Desperate. Mourning their fallen sisters.

SERENA (O.C.)Nearly 250 missing. Dead.

Serena is reporting this news to Koko, with Nansica the Faithful by her side.

KOKOI cannot think about that now. All I can think about is the King.

Koko is the only advance guard left. She holds her head in her hands.

SERENAYou have never lost a battle.

KOKONever.

NANSICASofi was everything.

KOKOShe was.

Nansica bursts into tears. Koko turns to Serena--

KOKO (CONT’D)I think Amaru has deceived us... And the King’s very own nephew...

After a beat--

SERENAAt least, the King has you, Koko.

Koko locks eyes with Serena... her heart racing...

SERENA (CONT’D)You will lead the army now. You will be Commander. Are you ready?

And off Koko’s look, we--

FADE TO BLACK.

END OF EPISODE

56.