MIDSUMMER NIGHTS SCREAM

             Screenplay by GARRICK HUSCARED

Harwyn-p.productiondepartment@virgin.net

(Caption) Portsmouth docks 1586
Pirate Molly Baggot and a handful of her men run around a corner fleeing soldiers only to be faced with a line of government troops . They skid to a stop A musket is fired by a soldier killing one of her men. Behind the troops are a small group of more noble looking men. One is Sir Francis Drake.
mOLLY
Hold fast men. Drake, you bastard I can see you skulking behind the soldiers. Holding on to Glorianna's apron strings? Come and fight me now if you want to end this.
drake
I don't need to fight you, Molly Baggot, you are finished. Your ship confiscated and all your privileges ended. You are just a common pirate now and will hang for it.
Molly pulls out a pistol and fires it at Drake just missing him but killing the soldier he stands behind. Molly and her men rush and a fight ensues between her men and the troops. Drake steps back but Molly forces her way through to him. He draws his sword and Drake and Molly fight. Sword and dagger for rake and sword and cutlass for Molly in a fast almost martial arts speed. Molly does well as one by one her men are defeated by the soldiers. Eventually she is alone and is surrounded by the soldiers. She fights in the middle of them with Drake until one of the soldiers hits her on the back of the neck with the hilt of his sword. She falls to the ground.
INT: TOWER OF LONDON DAY
In the tower a heavy lock is opened and a thick wooden door opens. Heavily armed Yeomen stand to one side as Walsingham steps between them into the sparsely lit room. Molly sits at a table. Her hair matted and her face bloody
walsingham
Those who have treated you this way have been punished.
mOLLY
Drake?
wALSINGHAM
No not Drake. He is a favorite of the Queen.
mOLLY
He's a fucking crook.
Walsingham drags up a stool and sits opposite her.
wALSINGHAM
That's as may be, Molly, my dear but he is the Queen's fucking crook, and shall we say, untouchable. Making an attack on his ships was a mistake. Shooting at him...well. He is a popular man, Molly. It was all I could do to stop the mob hanging you there and then.
mOLLY
Walsingham, tell me this, does the Queen know who is filling her coffers? Not Drake but I, and others, who for our work get no reward but constant attacks from the fleet. 
wALSINGHAM
It is the way of the world, my dear big fish eat little fish. You have been rewarded for work you have done for me in the past, work that you have always done well. This was a step too far and I have to be seen to act.
mOLLY
My men?
wALSINGHAM
They are alive. And will be kept alive while you do a little job for me.
Molly looks up at him.
mOLLY
A job? I want to see my men
wALSINGHAM
Oh I don't think you would right now. They cant go unpunished my dear and they are in shall we say various stages of penance as the law requires messy business but I will see they don't die.
mOLLY
Walsingham you are a bastard. 
WALSINGHAM
and only one step removed from another bastard who happens to be the queen of our land which makes me very powerful indeed. When you have done the job I require of you Molly. You can have your men back. They may be minus a few tongues or ears or fingers but they will be alive which is more than they deserve. It is because of the importance of this work that I have spared them for you. Now when did you last see your father and your sister?
Molly is puzzled
molly
My sister?? Whatever is on your mind leave my sister out of it. 
wALSINGHAM
Would that I could, Molly. You see and this is as hard for me as it is going to be for you. It is your sister that you are going to kill and probably your father too.
Molly leaps up kicking her chair away behind her. 
mOLLY
What?
The noise brings in two guards who Walsingham gestures away.
WALSINGHAM
When the plot to kill her majesty failed. There were those including your father who went on to try other methods to overthrow her. 
Walsingham gets very close and almost spits out the following
WALSINGHAM (CONT'D)
He is a witch in league with the devil and so is your sister. It is only because you have been useful that I have kept the Witchfinder away. If they are successful in their plans to open the Hellmouth at Burrowmore the whole world is in danger. Not only the queen will topple but the entire structure of humanity will be enslaved.
They wont succeed because you will kill them both.
mOLLY
Kill my own sister. Your mad. You will have to hang me because I wont do it. 
wALSINGHAM
I know there is no love lost between you father and you Molly and twelve years as a pirate is evidence that all is shall not well at home. No happy families for you. Maybe your sister is being led into this and your father just intends to use her power. I neither know nor care but what I do know is that this Hellmouth must not be opened and to stop it whoever has to die WILL die.
mOLLY
It wont be Helena it will be him and any good bowman can take out my father It will do my sister a favour. Why do you need me?
Molly realises something.
mOLLY (CONT'D)
You can't send the soldiers in can you? Or you would have done so already. 
wALSINGHAM
Molly I have many duties. One of them is to stop the wind of Catholicism that threatens our faith. Our queen believes in religious tolerance. As much as I may feel contrary to this it does include the pagans and devil worshipers who are actually much preferred than the Catholics. They have until now been seen as harmless.
As we speak the Scottish queen corresponds with Spain  and there is the threat of war  which I cannot avoid. In short I have my hands full. What goes on in Warwickshire is something I cannot be seen to get involved in or once again intolerance will prevail and everyone will be out burning witches willy nilly. A pirate you may be but I know you are loyal to the crown. This is a job only you can do.  
mOLLY
I will kill my father but never my sister.
The sinister side of Walsingham becomes more evident.
WALSINGHAM
You will do whatever has to be done Molly. 
Molly falls back against the wall and slides down it with her head in her hands.

(Caption) Arden Forest 1586
EXT NIGHT CIRCLE OF STONES
A number of dignitaries stand by a circle of ancient stones in the forest Also standing in robes is HANDS and his daughter HELENA. Behind Helena is Molly (looking sick). Hands holds up a small leather pouch.
hANDS
In this bag is a secret potion handed down to my family since these stones were raised. Here my daughter Helena,  who also has the gift of sorcery, will join me in opening the door to Magonia. The spirits within whose powers will be ours to command will be set free and bring to an the end all persecution of our kind forever.
The villagers are all standing behind a line of men wearing green sashes and heavily armed. 
village preist
You have been given the power from the Almighty, to protect this shrine and to protect us from what it represents Who pays you and your daughters to commit this act of blasphemy? You will be punished when the fires of hell are lit.
A couple of Hands ruffians WATT COOPER and GRESHAM COOPER beat the priest down to widespread shock.
hANDS
See what I mean. They think they hold the key to it all. They don't. We have paid homage to our woodland spirits for centuries, but what has the Green Man done for us. Nothing. We are still robbed and cheated by these Christian charlatans. Beyond this ancient monument lies another world. Spirits who are real and the power to give us back our freedom. The Hour is upon us, my daughter. Helena, your hand.
Hands and Helena hold hands and Hands holds the potion above the centre stone
HANDS
Etman humous dimaalli
hELEN
Etman humous dimaalli

 
A mist begins to emanate from the centre stone and the ground begins to shake. Molly is extremely anxious but moves forward towards Helena and from the back of her belt she grasps a dagger and begins to pull it out. She moves closer towards Helena's back as they repeat the incantation. Unearthly screams emanate from the mist terrifying the villager's, even one or two of the guards look around. As Molly moves closer and closer things heat up at the shrine. She draws her dagger and is about to thrust it into Helena's back when..Helena pulls her hand from her father's.
hELENA
No. I wont do it, father. I feel it, these spirits will devour us.
hANDS
They will end this persecution. Helena finish this. Do you want to live under the threat of the Witchfinder?
Molly stops what she is doing and simply freezes. Hands face turns to a terrible anger and he forcefully grabs Helena's hand and pulls her towards him. His voice changes.
hANDS (CONT'D)
Finish this. The door must be fully opened. Finish it, or I will finish you.
Molly sees the horror of Hands' face and the fear and determination on Helena's face. Molly acts. She cuts Hands' arm with the dagger and pulls Helena free. Too late the door is already open. There is a rush of spirits growling and snarling from the vent that has opened. Molly drags Helena away but she turns and screams
hELeNA
Hadris mesigma medanis.
The gate closes again after only a few of the spirits have crossed over and are swirling above the stone circle
Hands looks back amidst the rush and looks at them both with terrible hatred. Molly drags Helena away. The spirit attack the villagers OV are screaming
hANDS
You have just condemned both of your souls to Hell. You will never escape the forest. The power of these spirits will be mine.

Caption              A YEAR LATER
EXT. MORNING - BARN at the edge of the ARDEN FOREST 1587
It is nearly dawn. Along the straw covered floor are boots, a tunic, a sword and belt. The straw in the old barn slowly moves as though something is crawling along under it towards a sleeping man NED GOODTHRUST his arm under a young woman. It is almost upon him when the object is revealed as a cat.
CAPTAIN STANTON opens the door to the barn letting in the light. A smaller, younger man GLUM stands behind Stanton.
We see Ned, asleep. The woman stirs and sits up holding a cloak across her chest.
Stanton holding an arm full of clothes wakes Ned up. Ned is very delicate and still a bit drunk.
NED
What, who? What is it?
STANTON
What is it? Ned, you have a duel remember?
NED
Fuck off.
STANTON
He'll kill you in here then.
NED
What do you want, Stanton?
STANTON
I'm your second.
NED
Second. I'll give you a second to fuck off
NED opens one eye. He is a wreck.
NED (CONT'D)
How did you find me?
STANTON
You left a trail of clothes.
Stanton showers them down at Ned feet and begins picking up the other clothes spread around the barn and throwing them at Ned feet whilst saying...

STANTON (CONT'D)
Come on...
NED
So why are we duelling this morning?
STANTON
We are not duelling. You are duelling...you and HOLBROOK. 
NED
Holbrook? I don't know any Holbrook.
STANTON
Well you knew him long enough to piss him off in the tavern last night. He demands satisfaction at dawn.
NED
Ridiculous.  I'll tell you what; I demand satisfaction.  I demand the satisfaction of going back to sleep. Look it's barely dawn. Why do duels have to be fought at dawn?
STANTON
Some people are just into tradition. You know what these courtiers are like.
This gets Ned's attention and he sits up fast.
NED
Courtier?

Ned is more than a little distressed by all this and begins in earnest to put his boots on.
NED (CONT'D)
How can you let me offend a bleedin' Courtier?
STANTON
I did try to stop you. You told me to fuck off! So I did!
NED
Of all the times I have told you to fuck off and you don't. 
Ned begins to put on his jerkin and sword.
NED (CONT'D)
Oh jeez. Don't let me drink so much.
STANTON
Won't be a problem when you're dead, will it?
Ned starts to get dressed and gather his stuff in earnest
NED
Let's run. He'll never know where we are.
STANTON
Won't work
NED
Why not?
STANTON
He's waiting outside.
Ned looks for a back door. There isn't one. Ned has no options.
EXT: BARN DAY
Holbrook a well dressed man in his thirties his attire almost all pink stands practicing his swordplay.
Stanton exits the barn followed by Ned and Glum stands nearby.
HOLBROOK
Ah, there you are. Dawn. I said dawn!  Dawn!
NED
Its dawn enough for me.
HOLBROOK
I must say -
NED
Look, can we just get on with this?  I'm very tired and I'm very hung over and I wanna be asleep or dead as soon as possible. All right?
Ned turns to face Holbrook.
HOLBROOK
Prepare to die!
nED
Oh..please!
Ned swishes his sword around
NED (CONT'D)
You do know that I am an experienced swordsman.
Stanton can't help but shoot a look of bewilderment at Ned's comment. He clearly isn't. 
They approach each other and circle for a bit.
NED begins to show some signs of getting giddy.
NED (CONT'D)
Can we not do too much of this, Master..?
Ned rests his sword a spell to get his breath back.
NED (CONT'D)
By the way.. Who are you?

HOLBROOK
I am EDWARD HOLBROOK.
nED
Well, Master Holbrook, Pray enlighten me as to what I did that warrant's this unseemly event.
HOLBROOK
Its SIR EDWARD HOLBROOK to you, Ned Goodthrust, if that's your real name you are a mealy mouth, a fornicator and a liar.
NED
Well if that's all it takes I am surprised I haven't had more duels. Look, Sir Edward, whatever I said last night I really am very sorry. I can't take my ale you see. Most men drink and piss, drink and piss, and never seem to get drunk. Like Captain Stanton here, is that not so?
sTANTON
It's very true. I piss a lot when I am drinking. Actually even when I'm not drinking I..
Ned interrupts.
nED
Well you see I don't. It just mounts up until my back teeth are under piss..and I get very drunk, and I don't really know what I am saying.
Ned looks at Glum who remains expressionless. Ned is puzzled and turns his attention again to Holbrook.
nED (CONT'D)
So, why don't we just shake hands and go our separate ways. Besides I don't think I am fully sober yet. And it would be unfair and unbefitting for a person of Her Majesty's court to participate in an uncivilized brawl with a drunk.
Edward Holbrook stands his ground.
nED (CONT'D)
Besides my good friend, Captain Stanton, myself and...
Ned looks at Glum puzzled
nED (CONT'D)
I'm sorry. Who are you?
gLUM
I'm Glum.
Ned just stands very puzzled.
nED
Are you with him..Or with us?
gLUM
I'm independent.
Ned is even more confused and still finds it hard to focus. The woman now dressed exits the barn and stands watching.
nED
I don't want to duel today because. This is a happy day. We are this day going to get my bride to be the lovely MOLLY BAGGOT. 
Holbrook recognizes this name
NED (CONT'D)
Whom I have recently heard was not hung for piracy but sent to this godforsaken shithole by none other than Sir Francis Walsingham to spy on the activities of the locals. To be sure that they are not Catholics..or Pagan's, or Jews and need burning..(Ned shudders). Duelling will just bring me down.
Ned really is suffering
nED (CONT'D)
Ow, I can't do this. I am going back to bed, come on. What's your name again
George
George.
ned
Come on, Georgina, my dear. Holbrook If you want to duel, you will have to duel on your own or pick Captain Stanton, or Gloom over there, whoever he might be.
Ned dragging his sword begins to walk back to the barn.

HOLBROOK
Molly Baggot will die in three days.
Ned stops in his tracks. Ned turns.
nED
Die?
Glum's expression changes to anxiety.
Ned seems to suddenly sober up and is wide awake.
HOLBROOK
You know how I know that. Because when I have killed you. I am going to go and kill her. 
Ned is now very serious.
nED
Speak.
HOLBROOK
Why should I tell you more?
nED
Because I am now sober and I will kill you if you don't. You are outnumbered two...
Ned looks at Glum as he walks briskly over towards Holbrook. Glum is certainly shifty.
nED (CONT'D)
...er, three to one. 
nED (CONT'D)
What is happening in Burrowmore? Why are you going to kill Molly? Just exactly who are you?
Ned swipes his sword by surprise and knocks Holbrook's sword out of his hand. Ned holds his sword to Holbrook's throat.
Holbrook is in shock and falls back against a tree.
Ned steps forward very close to Holbrook.
nED (CONT'D)
You have touched on a subject very close to me, Pinky. Start talking.
HOLBROOK
I am on a mission vital to the crown. If you kill me before I am done then great evil will rule our land. 
nED
Tell me about Molly. I have no interest in your mission. You said you were going to kill her.  
HOLBROOK
Gentlemen, I have the ear of the Queen.
GLUM
Let me see it.
NED
I don't care if you have got her whole head. Talk
Glum draws his sword and seems quite threatening and agitated.
HOLBROOK
If you kill me. I warn you now that hell itself will be unleashed.  
NED
For a mission so important, picking a duel is a bit risky don't you think? Specially being so..pink. Your tailor clearly has a sense of humour but in all matters Molly and death I don't.
HOLBROOK
She is to die along with others before the Solstice.
nED
Solstice? So it 'is' religious. Walsingham's stomping on the Pagans is he? Wouldn't you just know it. So what are you The Witchfinder?.
Holbrook looks a little twichy.
nED (CONT'D)
You are, aren't you? You're the bloody Witchfinder. Molly has done some questionable deeds, my friend, but she is no witch.
HOLBROOK
She is but one of the witches in this story and much worse..much worse.
nED
Huh, you people. If there is not enough in our world that needs attending too. Plague, war, poverty! Walsingham sends you lot round the kingdom in the sort of outlandish attire I would not be seen dead, in burning lonely old ladies because they have a cat. No duel today, Sir Holbrook, but you can tell us where this Burrowmore is and then you can run back to Walsingham and tell him there are no witches today.
HOLBROOK
Goodthrust, It is remote and deep in the forest more than a days walk. You will never find it without me.
nED
Then I will ask someone.
HOLBROOK
There won't be anyone. The forest is dangerous and no one goes near Burrowmore...not since the gates of hell were opened.
nED
So how were you intending to find it?
HOLBROOK
I have a map.
Holbrook reaches into his doublet to retrieve the map. That instant Glum's sword is thrust deep into Holbrook's chest. 
Ned does not really know what has happened and steps back with blood on his face.
He turns to look at Glum, with sword in hand looking very self-satisfied. Holbrook is alive, in shock, and utterly dumbstruck as he clutches his bleeding chest.
NED
What the? Why?
Glum thrusts the sword again throwing Holbrook into bizarre and disturbing silent convulsions. 
gLUM
He was going for his dagger.
nED
He was going for the map, you dumb pizzle.
Ned leaps up and pushes Glum back. Stanton grabs Glum and holds him firmly.
Ned grimaces at the disturbing sight of the man convulsing on the floor. 
NED (CONT'D)
Give me your sword.
GLUM
No...what for? He was about to...
NED
(ANGRY) Give me your fucking sword or finish the job.
glum
Use your own sword
nED
I'm not having this mans blood on my sword. You started the job you finish it

Stanton releases Glum. Glum runs the man through his open mouth and out the back of his head. 
This just creates a terrible rasping sound from the man, but does not kill him. Ned and Stanton are open mouthed at the dreadful spectacle. Holbrook goes silent.
As the man dies an unearthly scream emanates from deep in the woods.
NED (CONT'D)
Oh, Jesu! Time to go
Ned and Stanton begin to walk briskly away as Glum in the background is trying to pull out his sword from the tree.
NED (CONT'D)
Where the fuck did you find him?
STANTON
I don't know. I thought he was with you.
Ned turns to further shout at Glum but he is gone. Ned stands open mouthed.
nED
Gone..Something just happened here that I don't understand.
sTANTON
Well at first you were asleep under the hay when I came in and woke you..
Ned interrupts.
nED
I know what happened. I just don't know what..happened.
There is a strange noise comes from deep within the woods that sends a shiver down Ned's back.
NED (CONT'D)
Someone's been watching us, in the woods. Did you hear that? I hate the fucking countryside. 
Ned tries to put an upbeat spin on it.

OK..(pulls himself up). Molly alive though in danger. We are men of action, are we not? No straw sucking inbred peasant is a match for Ned Goodthrust and Captain Stanton. If Molly needs me, she shall have me.
sTANTON
And who will have me?
nED
I doubt anyone, sweet captain but that's the luck of the draw. You pledged yourself to me. I will help the helpless and you hope there is hope for the hopeless. The map...
Ned walks over to the dead Holbrook. His tunic is very wet with blood. Ned reaches into the bloody tunic and retrieves the blood soaked folded map. The sword hole penetrates its centre. Ned slowly unfolds it.
nED (CONT'D)
Useless I can't see a thing on it.
sTANTON
How will we find it?
nED
Back to our original plan, Captain. We will ask and hope the locals are friendly. Let's go.
Stanton indicates that George is standing close utterly shocked.
nED (CONT'D)
Ah George.. my sweet. I am sorry that you had to witness that. I would say nothing about it. Now I am sure that you can find your way back to Stratford. It's that way.
You do live in Stratford do you not?
gEORGE
Good God, no its a shit hole. I live in London. My company were in Stratford yesterday.
nED
Right, (a beat), your company. Organised prostitution. What is this world coming too. Oh forgive me, my dear. Stanton, some chinks.. pay the lady.
Stanton pulls a small purse from his pouch.
stanton
How much?
gEORGE
I don't want money. I am coming with you. 
nED
Ah yes, you could come with us in normal circumstance, but you see I am going to Burrowmore to find my bride and well you and I...
gEORGE
Don't flatter yourself I was as drunk as you or I would never..(thinks) you're old. Anyway you fell asleep.
nED
Did I. Oh then virtue is intact.
Stanton frowns disbelieve at that comment.
nED (CONT'D)
Old?
gEORGE
What about Burrowmore? We are meant to meet there to pick up a new actor.
nED
Oh you're the wife of an actor?
gEORGE
No I am an actor. With the Queen's Men
nED
Ha-ha you try to fool me my dear. Only men are allowed to be actors.
George just smiles and winks at him as she walks past.
nED (CONT'D)
But....
Stanton follows past Ned.
sTANTON
I thought you knew. Its not Georgina its George.
INT. HOUSE, EaRLY MORNING - BEDROOM
A MAN and a WOMAN are asleep in bed. 
The door bursts open and three GOONS enter. The man and woman are terrified.
WATT COOPER a toothless delinquent, and one of the goons, rips the sheets off the bed. MAN and WOMAN are naked and frightened. Watt takes delight in looking at the terrified woman. 
Watt turns to his older brother, GRESHAM COOPER, another of the goons and points at the woman's naked breast and laughs a toothless and horrible laugh.
WATT COOPER (IMMATURELY)
Tits....
He moves towards the woman with his hands making grasping gestures. Woman tries to shrink away but Watt grabs her hair and pulls her nearer. He lowers his head to kiss her and accidently dribbles on her face GRESHAM COOPER, laughs raucously.
GRESHAM COOPER
Mind you don't drown her, WATT COOPER. Hee-haw.
WATT COOPER
Its' not fucking funny. I got no teeth, it just comes out.

EXT. peasants house, DAY
A MAN comes flying out of the front door and rolls along the ground up to the feet of HANDS.
HANDS is surrounded by GOONS who all point swords at MAN.
HANDS
Get up.
MAN staggers to his feet and faces HANDS
HANDS (CONT'D)

You are a murderer.
MAN
No…
HANDS slaps him hard.
HANDS
Do not interrupt me. I allow not even my immediate family that luxury. You are a murderer and you have been caught murdering. 
Hands kicks him.
hANDS (CONT'D)
You know the rules in the forest. Murder committed equals another life taken. A peasant of course, not the gentry. It is the way of things.
MAN is going to say something as GRESHAM COOPER drags the screaming and struggling, still naked, WOMAN out into the front garden with WATT COOPER following behind tickling her arse.
Parades her for the other GOONS.
MAN
No!
HANDS kicks MAN hard.
HANDS
Have I said speak? Have I?
Pause.
HANDS (CONT'D)
This is not about defence. It's about punishment.
When you have this knife you will take your own life and that will be that. Your wife may get dressed and I shall retire to my house satisfied that justice is done. However, should you either refuse to take up this knife or use it to attack me - both of which will be options open to you - then I will kill you so slowly and have my men violate your wife so severely that the enormity of the deed will be considered, in many parts of the land, to be of biblical proportions. 
I now give you a knife and pray that your conscience may be your guide.
Throws down a knife to MAN and stands just a little out of his reach and looks on. 
MAN looks at the knife. 
He looks at the GOONS with their swords raised a fair distance off. 
He looks at WOMAN being prodded and leered at by GOONS. He looks down and picks up the knife slowly and deliberately.
Man
I have killed no one.
Hands
Probably not, but a murder there has been. I keep the balance. It's the price we all must pay for the good bounty this forest brings us, and you know why. It has to be someone of no consequences. We can't have the spirits going after our Masters can we?
Do it. We all must make sacrifices. Do it, or she will take your place.
MAN looks at his wife.
Man to wife
Sorry.
Man whispers to Hands and drops his head.
Hands
No matter the law is the law. Your loving husband has chosen you, my dear.
Hands holds out his hand to receive the dagger. 
The man places it in his hand.
Hands walks to the wife and holds out the dagger to her. 
The wife looks with hatred at her kneeling husband. She takes the dagger terrified she pants heavily
Hands (CONT'D)
Come on, my dear, we don't have all day. Can I suggest you stick it about there. It's the heart. You may have to twist it a bit when its in. The heart is quite small. Not I must say as small as your husband's, but still easy to miss. Just there. Perhaps if you hold the dagger in place and run at the wall.
She breathes very deeply.
Wife
Can I pray first?
Hands
Not really the time I'm afraid. We'll say a prayer for you later. Or maybe your husband will light a candle for you. Off you go.
She turns and faces the wall of the house. Holds the dagger in place.
Hands (CONT'D)
A good hard run.
She runs at the wall hits it hard. 
HANDS (CONT'D)
That's it! You're doing awfully well. Isn't she doing well, lads?
Goons nod and agree amongst each other that it was a very good run.
The dagger goes in. She falls to the ground. Still alive.
Hands (CONT'D)
Ah, you missed. Twist it, my dear.
She twists it and after a few twists it catches the heart and with one convulse she dies.
Hands walks over to her. Places his hands on her bloody breasts. Turns and slams the blooded hand marks on the door.
HANDS (CONT'D)
(Shouts to the woods.)
Justice is done.
(There is a hint of anger at the woods in his tone)
Hands looks at the snivelling man. Turns to his goons.
HANDS (CONT'D)
Within an inch, my friends. Make sure it's no more.
He walks away as WATT COOPER does the same on her breasts but puts the hand prints on his brothers face. The men set about the husband.
EXT WOODS DAY.
Young Will Shakespeare runs panting through the woods. He is accompanied by another young man HARRY. They stop to get their breath.
HARRY
When he reads that he will be furious, Will. I'm not sure you're doing the right thing.
WILL
He's a tyrant. He deserves worse than a few well chosen words pinned to his gate.
With a flourish he pretends to wave a pen like a sword.
wILL (CONT'D)
 The pen is stronger than the sword, Harry.
HARRY
Will, you're crazy. He won't stop at a beating next time. He will send Hands after you. 
wILL
Then I will clip his wings. Tan his arse and send him back to that snake LORD LUCY with a another note telling Lucy to beware of Will Shakespeare, curse of Stratford.

Harry
Will, I have always stuck by you but this is...
wILL
I am not going back home, Harry. I am smitten. I saw those p[layers dazzle before me. The words the movement. The Queen's Men.. They are a man short and I am going with them. Go home to your family. You can watch me from afar. I will make my mark, Harry.
hARRY
Will?.. Your going through the forest. You cant be in the forest at night you know that.
wILL
I'm not going  to be in  the forest at night. I am going as far as Burrowmore where I will sup with the queens men and on to London. 
HARRY
Why Burrowmore Will why not Stratford? 
wILL
The queens men and I have something very strong in common. We hate Stratford. Its not a good place for theatre. The road to London picks up at Burrowmore  
Will reaches out and holds Harry in his arms. He kisses him on the cheek.
hARRY
I can't begin to work out what you are up to, Will. I have heard terrible stories about Burrowmore. Promise me you will keep safe. Don't forget Stratford
wILL
Would that I could.
EXT WOODS DAY.
Ned followed by Stanton and George are walking in silence. Ned shudders. This makes Stanton laugh a little. Ned just give Stanton a look.
sTANTON
Penny for your thoughts, Ned?
nED
Not thoughts I want. I hate the sight of blood. 
sTANTON
Change your thoughts. Think of Molly. Just imagine she is not already dead.
nED
That helps. Thanks, Captain
sTANTON
How do you know this is the way? It all looks the same to me. 
nED
It is all the fucking same. Trees...and trees...and more fuc... 
sTANTON
There was a sign back there.
nED
There was? 
Ned stops. Captain and George walk on a little before realizing Ned has stopped they turn to look at him
nED (CONT'D)
Saying what?
sTANTON
How should I know?
nED
Well didn't you read it?
sTANTON
I can't read.
Ned turns to George
nED
You?
gEORGE
I did not see it
ned turns back to Stanton
nED
You didn't think to tell me?
sTANTON
Well you can't read either, I assumed. 
nED0
Of course I can fucking read you moron. Jeez. Where was it?
sTANTON
At that fork in the road. I have never seen you reading. 
NED
That's because its 1587, there's nothing to read. 
sTANTON
Well it was pointing the way that we are going so whatever it said it's this way. And I can see what looks like buildings over there.
Ned looks around and true enough there are some structures just visible through the trees
EXT BURROWMORE DAY.
The village resembles a burned skeleton of charred timbers. Everything is destroyed.
nED
George wait here. Your not really dressed for action.
Ned and Stanton cautiously venture into the ruins
sTANTON
Why are you leaving George there? He is a bloke you know
nED
Hmm well yes and no. Its a nice dress and I was thinking all this burned wood would..
Stanton looks at Ned
nED (CONT'D)
get it dirty
sTANTON
Oh right. It wouldn't be that you fancy her.
nED
Don't be stupid
sTANTON
You slept with him last night
nED
I was drunk and anyway what's a bloke doing going around looking so much like a woman. 
sTANTON
Its the theatre. Women aren't allowed to act so they get blokes to do it.
nED
Well its bloody confusing
 
 On one of the half burned doors are red blood hand prints which Ned examines. He sniffs it.
sTANTON
Plague.
nED
Don't think so. This is not paint. There are no buildings left untouched. If it were the plague who burned the last house?
This logic is a bit beyond Stanton, so he just nods
sTANTON
Right. Who indeed? Hmm.
NED
Someone came in and destroyed all this at one time. I can't see an Inn.
Stanton looks round.
sTANTON
Nor I. But I do know there will be a well trodden path to it.
nED
Excellent.
They look around.
Stanton spots the path.
sTANTON
There it is.
Ned spots a strange circle of stones. 
nED
Well done, Captain. But what is that?
They walk over to it. Not a large monument, but two circles of stones one inside the other. Each has a simple carving of different beasts Every stone has two red hand prints on it. 
nED (CONT'D)
I'm thinking about what Holbrook said. This looks like witchcraft.

A voice makes Ned and Stanton spin around drawing swords as they do
wILL
It IS witchcraft.
 Sitting on a log behind them is Will he is dejected and sad.
nED
And you, Sirrah, are?
Will
Will Shakespeare. A man who's life has collapsed.
nED
What happened here 
wILL
There had been rumors in Stratford of strange beasts that had entered the forest. No one came here. I had just thought them rumors. See the hand prints. I know who made them. The worst beast of all.
George enters the scene
Will leaps up 
wILL (CONT'D)
George
will rushes to her and they kiss full on the lips
Ned winces
Ned turns to Stanton and says quietly
nED
Someone aught to tell him. 
sTANTON
I think he knows Ned
Will
George the players. We were meant to meet here.

nED
What of Molly? Are we too late? We must go and find the Inn
 
Interrupts
wILL
There is something I found here that I must show you.
EXT: DOOR: DAY
Will walks away into a doorway. He looks back for them to follow him. Inside a ruined building. 
wILL (CONT'D)
This was the priest's house.
INT: STONE ROOM: DAY
Will opens the door to an almost intact stone room. A chapel. Seated at a desk is a person. His throat is slashed. His feet are chained to the floor. On the desk is writing. 
wILL (CONT'D)
Read.
Stanton gestures for Ned to read it. Ned looks a little panic stricken.
nED
The light is not good in here. I can't read it properly. If you can see it you read it out.
wILL (reading)
I have condemned myself to purgatory and taken my own life. When the sun goes down my body will rise and do Satan's bidding. This is why I have chained myself to the floor. I cannot fall into the same pit as my brethren. There is no escape for me so I write these words to warn whoever should chance on this place. Should The Hands receive the souls he desires by the solstice the world shall see the pagan horrors beat down the walls of heaven on earth...and hell shall reign supreme. I will not be forgotten and nor will my God while these words remain.
Will looks at Ned.
wILL (CONT'D)
The solstice is soon upon us,
nED
Christ I had shivers go right up my back then.
NED (CONT'D)
Hurry we must find the Inn.
EXt THE GREEN MAN 
Outside the Inn is a gathering of the queens men. All dressed in garish costume.
STANTON
God teeth (drawing his sword) what horrors are these?
nED
The worse kind Captain. There actors
there is a general happy greeting between George Will and the actors.
NED (CONT'D)
What's going on?
THOMAS BELPER
This blasted woman says she we cannot enter.
nED
Molly?
mOLLY
Go away. You cant get in. 

nED
Molly. It is I. Ned Goodthrust. 
After a pause the window shutter. It opens only a tiny amount.
Ned pulls Stanton into view.
nED (CONT'D)
And here is the good Captain.
sTANTON
Hello, Molly, nice to see you.
mOLLY
And I need you because?
Ned looks puzzled.
nED
Because you're in trouble. You are in trouble aren't  you?
mOLLY
Might be.
nED
Well there you see. That's why I came. To save you. And looking around I may be the only thing you have got
Everyone is listening and Ned's bravado is in serious danger as embarrassment creeps in
nED (CONT'D)
(almost sheepishly whispered)
...and to make you my bride..if you'll have me.
mOLLY
I have sailed all 8 sea's fought the Kraken single handed. Stood toe to toe with the dreaded Stingler and survived.  What makes you think I need a peacock popinjay like you to get me out of trouble let alone as my husband? I'm never in that much trouble. Go away. 
Ned looks around him. Everyone who has been listening intently suddenly finds themselves doing anything but look like they have been listening
nED
Ha-ha. Thank God for the gift of humour. You had us all going then. (Ned swallow's)No really Molly its not safe out here let us in. I honestly came to save you.
mOLLY
Everything is under control here. I don't need saving. Tell Hands his trick has failed. You don't even look like Ned. He was never that old and ugly.
nED
It is I. Listen if I were someone playing me would I know this? You have on a chain a small golden lamb. It was left with you in the docks as a baby, and you said it was solid gold and proof you were of noble birth.
There is a pause. Then the shutter opens a bit more
mOLLY
Come closer...
Ned looks around and has re-covered some of his demeanor he walks to the window.
mOLLY (CONT'D)
Closer still...
Ned moves in as close as he can get. The shutter opens for an instant just long enough for a bowl of slop to be thrown over him.
mOLLY (CONT'D)
That wasn't me. That was that bitch you ran off with.
The shutter slams shut and is bolted Ned walks back dripping with slop. He stands by Stanton
nED
She knows its me. Or that would have been a sword.

EXT GREEN MAN :dusk
A fire is lit and all sit around it. A couple of the actors are standing and doing a sketch in the firelight to show off and entertain the others.
rICHARD TARLETON
Beelzebub you say? I says he and with horns and cloven hooves he did make a gesture thus
Tarleton bends over and makes a rasping farting sound with his mouth
actor 1
but master merridew this tale has been told before and in the tale then told twas not Beelzebub but old man horseshoe and he did not fart he did belch. 
The actors all fall about laughing theatrically.
ACTOR 1 (CONT'D)
Well Master Shakespeare what thinkest though.
 
wILL
That's not what you did in Stratford is it. Is it new?
rICHARD TARLETON
Brand New. I penned by myself. It needs work though
WILL
Yes it does. Perhaps the words and the narrative should be reorganized to say something entirely different
Not really understanding what he has said
rICHARD TARLETON
Do you think so? Hmm. I could try that.
The Door to the Inn
Ned is leaning against the door. He has clearly been trying to talk her into opening up. 
He does not even know if she is listening or not
nED
My god. That's Richard Tarleton the greatest comedian in the land. He is about as funny as a dose of the pox. Now if you could open the door before they begin another round of theatrics. Molly, it is almost night. If what the priest wrote is true the killing will start soon. 
Ned looks over to the fire and Stanton looks back at Ned with pleading eyes as one of the actors begins to throw his arms out and thrust his legs apart.
NED (CONT'D)
Judging by Captain Stanton's face.  The killing is about to start. If you just let us inside I can help..Molly? Moll?
There is no answer. Ned walks over to the group. The actors stop and look to see if Ned has an answer
THOMAS BELPER
We should bust down the door. 
THRESHER
Yes. There is probably food inside.
THOMAS BELPER
This cold is playing hell with my voice.
There is a terrible rasping moan emanates from the forest.
THRESHER
In God's name.
nED
and you think you have voice problems
Ned draws his sword as does Stanton
all become alert
A tall horror of a man EDWARD KELLEY looks more dead than the zombies stands. Behind him a smaller man (GLUM) who's face is shielded by a hood. The tall man assists Dr. John Dee to his feet while...
JOHN DEE
Gentlemen. I know not what fate has brought you here but inside we must go if we are to survive it is soon to be dark.
Everyone looks shocked as though they had not noticed these two strange characters before
While the forest sounds increase all attention is on Dee.
nED
Do you know what is out there?
JOHN DEE
They are baying for your souls. Out here we are but sacrifices to the damned.
nED
And you, Sir, are?
jOHN DEE
My Name is Dr. John Dee 
nED
Now you got us all shitting bricks, Any suggestions.
There is a scream again from the forest and clearly movement in the bushes. 
Dee taps gently on the door. Ned and many of the others are close behind him.
JOHN DEE
Molly, my dear. I am Doctor John Dee, Occult Advisor to Her Majesty. I know that Walsingham will have told you of me. I am afraid that if you don't allow this gathering inside they will die here. Master Kelley and I have been sent by Her Majesty alone to stop what is happening.
At fleeting images of figures among the trees at the edge of the clearing.
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Open the door Molly and invite us in. You must.
Ned rushes up. 
nED
Molly, he is right. Something is out here and these people are innocent. If you are still the Molly I know for the love of God invite us in.
There are more growls as a host of hardly seen creatures begin to come into view amidst a misty glow. 
Everyone backs towards the Inn door which is still shut.
The door opens. 
All the gathering enter the Inn. 
Stanton, Ned and Will are at the tail-end as they back towards the door. 
Will enters, followed by Stanton and Ned  
Ned falls back through the door and it is slammed shut
Creatures moan and hammer on the walls outside as all inside stand in breathless silence.
Only the light from a few candles flickering.
The noise continues outside until a shriek of laughter fades into the distance then silence and after a brief pause
RICHARD TARLETON
I think I speak for all assembled when I say WHAT THE FUCK??
Ned scans the room and standing with sword in hand is Molly.
Directly behind her is another girl, Helena also with a sword in her hand.
nED
Molly?
Molly is dirty faced and has clearly gone through long periods of hell. Molly lowers her sword and 
mOLLY
I had to be sure..You took your bloody time
breaking down emotionally as she does and ends throwing her arms around Ned tightly. 
Ned holds her close. 
nED
What's this? Molly Baggot scourge of the sea. Crying
mOLLY
I'm not crying. I am pleased to see you
He sees that Helena has tears streaming down her cheeks and he gestures for Stanton to comfort her. 
Stanton steps forward and pats her on the shoulder.
Helena looks at him and throws her arms around him in embrace. Stanton not knowing where to put his hands looks shocked.
Dr. John Dee examines the garlands that surround the room.
jOHN DEE
Sweet Violet. I knew it, (to Kelley).
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
My dear, Molly. Who was the enchanter of this protection?
mOLLY
The wood spirit.
jOHN DEE
The Man of Green. How wondrous. Did you see him?
Molly shakes her head no
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
No matter. My Lord, I knew he was real. 
He turns to Helena
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
And you must be the sorcerer Helena who conjured the Green man
Helena
I am Helena. 
nED
Doctor Dee, you seem to know much about what is going here. Are we safe?
jOHN DEE
Presently it would appear. How long has the protection lasted, sweet Molly
mOLLY
Almost one year. 
jOHN DEE
One solstice to the next.
nED
You have been a prisoner in here for a year. Oh my God, Molly
As Kelley slowly stands from his seated position everyone holds there breath
EDWARD KELLEY
The protection of the violet will not last a second beyond midnight on the Solstice.
jOHN DEE
Which is in two days. We would have been here sooner my dear but it was only talk in court circles that brought this to Her Majesty's attention. Holbrook, The Witchfinder had been dispatched by Sir Robert Cecil I was fortunate to have learned this in advance and my friend here who is a hired assassin 
glum stands and throws back his hood. Ned and Stanton see that it is glum and look shocked.
JOHN DEE (CONT'D)
was able to infiltrate a duel Holbrook was having with a couple of simpletons and kill him
STANTON
Eh?
Ned puts his finger to his lips to silence Stanton. Ned looks at Glum who simply smiles back at him
Molly lightens it up a bit
mOLLY
There is food and ale for all here. Please eat. We are safe for the moment.
STANTON
Would someone here tell me in ways that I understand what is going on?
Who are they? No don't tell me. When the time comes just tell me which way to point my sword.
nED
Forgive my friend, he is a military man first and foremost. Molly, your suggestion of food and ale is very appealing.
jOHN DEE
Splendid idea. I for one am starving.
Helena
I will prepare some food. Perhaps the good Captain would assist me.
Stanton looks befuddled
sTANTON
Me why?
Ned kicks him under the table. Stanton looks at Ned harshly but Ned Gestures for Stanton to go with her.
Helena leads Stanton out into another room.
Ned leans in to Molly
mOLLY
I knew that one day you would come. How did you know I was here?
nED
News of the notorious Molly Baggot eventually becomes common knowledge. I had heard many things. One that you had grown wings and flown away. Another that you had attacked Drake by mistake. 
mOLLY
That one is true but twas no mistake
NED
and the one that kept me from you Molly. The worst of all..That you had been hung. 
mOLLY
What did you do?
nED
After news of your death..Spain mostly. War..money you know. You?
mOLLY
Ships, Ireland. The tower, Walsingham. Threat. Kill Helena or die with my shipmates and a year inside this cell.
nED
Why you.
mOLLY
This Inn used to be my fathers, before the thirst for power drove him to act for the devil. Hence all the sweet violet. Helen is my sister. 
nED
So its your father who is leaving his bloody hand prints everywhere. If he is a witch. Your sisters a witch then..you.
mOLLY
I think it skipped a generation.
nED
Thank God. Pirate I can deal with. So Walsingham sent you to kill your own sister. The bastard

John Dee and Edward Kelley join them both 
jOHN DEE
Ah, we speak of a powerful and devious man. But Bastard will suffice
MOLLY
Except here he was wrong. Helena was not the threat. She fought against our father who was and still is the danger here. He was forcing her to use her power to open the gate to these spirits. He had always lived in fear of the Witchfinder when he was making cures for the locals. But was a good man though. There must be someone behind this. I saw the look in his eyes. The sound of his voice was not even his own.
 
jOHN DEE
I don't think for one minute that he was on his own initially. Why he has changed! I don't know and who is behind it can be a hundred people of the court all vying for power. When will these fools learn that you can't control the spirits. 
The demons we now face, gentlemen, are  bloodthirsty and feed from the human soul. 
nED
Where is this gate?
MOLLY
An ancient shrine which the village was built around. 
nED
The circle of stones? I saw that. Your Dad's mark was all over it
jOHN DEE
The Mouth to Hell some would say. The villagers were in the way so they were absorbed and I think that much of the poor lost souls out there were once the population of Burrowmore.
WILL
All but the priest, poor soul. 

INT FOOD ROOM
Stanton sits at a table. Helena brings drinks over and places them on the table. She sits and places vegetables in front of her.
Helena
A Captain!
STANTON
Not really. Just a foot soldier. That's what Ned calls me.
Helena
How long have you known each other?
STANTON
A long time now. He saved my life and I pledged I would be his man.
Helena
Is he a good master?
STANTON
No he's the worst. My life would be both simpler and safer without him. But a man makes a pledge and has to stick by it.
Helena
And a woman?
STANTON
No he's alone. Takes what he wants and...(thinks) and then there is Molly.
Helena
I don't mean him. I mean you.
STANTON
That, er, fortune has yet to present itself to me.
Helena
I doubt you would see it if it did.
STANTON
Maybe. I think my life is complicated enough looking after him.
There is an embarrassing pause as each don't know what to say to each other
STANTON (CONT'D)
Molly and you...
Helena
She is my sister.
STANTON
oh I see.
STANTON (CONT'D)
Your father. Is he dead?
Helena
He is the evil in all this. We are both given the second sight.
sTANTON
You're a witch?
Helena
The power of magic is an ancient curse that has been passed down my family. My father was swayed by the lust for dominance and used his power wrongly.
STANTON
Does he know where you are?
Helena
Yes. This is the only place he can't touch me. Food is left each day. They cannot get in to kill us, yet they keep us alive until the time is right
Stanton has not really understood what Helena has said
STANTON
You should get out. Move go somewhere.
She looks at him a little perplexed 
Helena
I've just said..I cannot leave this place. It would take a powerful force to escape.
sTANTON
Maybe I am a force powerful enough.
Helena
(She giggles a little). Maybe you are at that, Richard
She kisses him gently on the cheek Stanton is shocked at hearing his first name used as well as the kiss.
INT MAIN ROOM: NIGHT
The actors including Will are sitting around a table food is sitting in front of them but no one is eating. 
Ned and Stanton are the only ones tucking into their food. John Dee is also eating heartily as is Glum 
Helena and Molly are not eating. EDWARD KELLEY sits back no food in front of him. 
nED
Not eating, Master Kelley?
jOHN DEE
He never eats. You know I have never seen this man eat a thing.
nED
Looking at him I can believe it. No offence.
edward kelley
None taken
nED
I on the other hand have a good appetite as does Captain Stanton. Why in the midst of battle we have enjoyed our food have we not Captain?
Stanton nods. 
nED (CONT'D)
If there is a fight ahead as assuredly there will be. I prefer to do it on a well stocked stomach.
jOHN DEE
I fear, Master Ned, that our foes will take more than a thrashing sword.
nED
Never met a foe that will not succumb to a point well placed.
mOLLY
Except these monsters.
nED
Why?
mOLLY
Because they are already dead.
EDWARD KELLEY
The spirits have no physical power so they bring back the dead to do their bidding. 
nED (with his mouth full)
How many dead people can there be in a forest?
MOLLY
My father ensures a plentiful supply but they must have taken their own life. 
Stanton
How many suicides can there be in a forest?
Molly looks a little perplexed because she has just said that but Helena saves the day
HELENA
They are forced to kill themselves under the guise of justice.
nED
I have always hated the countryside.
ACROSS THE ROOM
The actors sit in silence at there table. 
BELPER begins to play with his food. He lifts some to his mouth and notices stringy gunk on his food and in his mouth. 
Then drops of slime hitting the food in front of him. He slowly looks up. 
Through the gaps in the roof he sees the rotten face of a woman starring down at him. 
THOMAS BELPER
God's teeth! Foul apparition.
The other actors noticing other starring faces looking down at them leap up in fright.
Ned and the others join them. Looking up at the figures Stanton draws his sword. Helena holds him back.
MOLLY
Don't waste your effort they can't get in. They Watch us all night. We've got names for them. (Matter-of-factly), That's Cicely, and that one's George, my personal favorite is Hooky...on account of his nose.
THOMAS BELPER
Curse my desire for the stage for bringing me to this ugly place. 
WILL
Life lessons. What better experience for an actor to witness first hand that which your craft calls upon.
There is a little silence in the room as all work that one out.
jOHN DEE
Precisely, Master Shakespeare. Some of us are men at arms some are poets and players. All the world is a stage, we are merely players upon it. 
nED
I for one will rely on my sword. 
RICHARD TARLETON
Are you expecting us to fight?
NED
I have no expectations but I do have this for you. We are two days away from those.. whatever they are's having free run with this place. You can stay and be the main course at their banquet if you desire, or you can take advantage of your stage fright and turn out a good performance of saving your arse. Its a choice!  
THRESHER
Give me a weapon and I will bring down a storm upon them that will shake the heavens.
robin masters
I too will give them Hercules scattering the hoards.
nED
Good enough.
mOLLY (to Ned alone)
Whatever they are's? Ned is that English. (she laughs)
nED
Glad you find me amusing Molly.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
Hands is on his knees. 
He has surrounded himself with a garland of herbs. 
Around him zombies dig themselves out of the ground or arrive through the tree's. 
They crawl and stumble into a circle around him. He shows no fear. 
Above the noise of the dead is a stranger sound. Hands is more than a little mad Lady Maccers style

HANDS
Spirit. Are my hands not bloody enough? I will break the spell that protects her and offer you the key to this world for ever. I will deliver her.
There is a pause
HANDS (CONT'D)
Your army is ready.
INT INN NIGHT
NED sits with MOLLY
nED
It is good to see you, Moll'. I came to Plymouth because there were rumors you had docked there. 
mOLLY
I didn't step foot on dry land for two years. Drake would meet us at sea to unload our cargo...
nED
Spanish treasure.
mOLLY
Anyone's treasure. The royal coffers were always hungry. 
nED
How did you end up here? 
mOLLY
Oh it's a long story. Lets just say that fat Cornishman Drake is not quite the hero the Queen thinks he is. He is a fucking crook, pocketed most due to the Queen and blamed us. He led us to capture and my men are now paying for his crime with their lives in the tower...I miss the sea

ACROSS THE ROOM
Will is sitting next to Dr. Dee. He and Kelley are drawing up graphs and writing in strange glyphs. Will watches in fascination. Glum sits watching with great interest also
jOHN DEE
There must be a talisman. It's a matter of mathematics as in all things both on this earth and any other.
wILL
Even in Stratford I have heard of your great work. Some say that you are The Merlin.
Dee laughs
jOHN DEE
No I am not the Merlin. The answer to all things lies in science, Master Shakespeare, both in this world and in the next. There are few who realise it. Our great Queen is one of the few who recognizes that all things follow a pattern, a mathematical graph if you like. Many permutations but in  the end only one result which can be pre- determined if the right formula is worked out. Glorianna is surrounded by men who scheme, and thanks to my teaching she is always one step ahead of them.
wILL
And this. Can you determine the end?
jOHN DEE
Of course, but perhaps not in the time that we have. Master Kelley and I do have a few tricks up our sleeve.
WILL
Tricks. Maybe you are the Merlin...
Dee laughs again. 
jOHN DEE
Maybe I am after all, we shall see. We shall see. Success in all things comes not from luck but in having a plan.
Will turns to Glum
wILL
I can see why Dr. Dee and Master Kelley are here but you sir? An assassin
gLUM
Everybody has to be somewhere and why not here?
wILL
True but you must have known the dangers here.
gLUM
I did. You are seeking life's experience as am I. 
wILL
But an assassin
gLUM
It pays. Taking a life teaches you a great lesson. It teaches you the value of life. The speed with which it can be snuffed is a great leveller. Take here for instance. We are all making preparations to survive against an unknown force. Our chances are slim and yet we hold onto that sliver of a hope. It does not stop the inevitable. It merely delays it 
wILL
You think we are doomed
gLUM
We are all doomed at one time or another. Dr. Dee believes everything can be read in numbers. I believe that our path is unstructured. Power is the key to all things. But at the end it means nothing.
wILL
I can see where you got the name Glum from. 
Glum actually smiles at this
gLUM
Walsingham gave me that name. My name is Marlow 
wILL
You have a keen view on the world master Marlow. You should share that with people and write about it. This is my intent if we survive this.

From outside a voice is heard shouting
HANDS (VOW)
Helena.
All in  the room are silent. 
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS (CONT'D)
The time has come. The Green Man cannot save you. Give yourselves up and I will make it quick for you.
INT INN NIGHT
Ned stands along with the others
EXT WOOD NIGHT
Hands stands in the inn yard with his men behind him. WATT COOPER is clearly not the brightest of Hands men. 
He stands with his older brother, who is not much brighter. 
He sees the pistol in his brother belt. He can't resist pulling it out. 
He raises the gun and fires a shot
INT GREEN MAN INN:NIGHT
There is a pause then a bullet from a pistol pierces the wall and disappears up an actors nose. 
He begins taking deep breaths in and in and in.
EXT WOODS; NIGHT
HANDS rushes and grabs the gun off the shooter and hits him to the ground with it.
INT GREEN MAN:NIGHT
Everyone in the room is stunned to silence as the actor clutches his head and blood begins to stream from his nose and mouth. 
He looks up his eyes are crossed and he clearly is in very disturbing agony.
NED
Someone. For the love of God finish him, someone.
One of the fellow actors takes out his knife in terror and hands shaking stabs at the dying actor a number of times but not deep enough to make a kill. 
This only makes things worse.
NED (CONT'D)
Not deep enough. To not go in deep only pisses them off
Glum calmly draws his sword and runs the man right through the heart. 
He falls down dead. Glum looks at Will who sits open mouthed and gestures with his fingers a candle being snuffed. Everyone is horrified and reality has kicked in.

NED (CONT'D)
Who is this? Are they the dead?
STANTON
I thought we had until tomorrow.
Helena
Its my father. Hands.
NED
Alone?
Helena
Never. He has an army of men that do his bidding.
NED
Well what the fuck does he want?.
Ned shouts out so Hands can hear
NED (CONT'D)
What the fuck do you want?
EXT FOREST NIGHT
Hands is surrounded by his well-armed men. He is shocked to hear the man's voice
HANDS
Who is that? (His voice does not betray his shock)
INT GREEN MAN NIGHT
STANTON
Its Ned Goodthrust and he will kill you.
NED
Captain...Jeez. Thanks for the noble thought but for fuck's sake please don't say another word.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS
Never heard of you. I'm not interested in your threats. You won't kill me but I will kill you. You will all die. Either by my hand or by those who will see you dead.
INT GREEN MAN.
NED
I see we were never going to hit it off as friends but we are not without a force of our own.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS
Only the key is what is needed
Listen to me, I have kept my daughter alive awaiting the solstice. Then she will do what she should have done a year ago it is her destiny. Send out Helena The rest of you can go along with your business.
INT GREEN MAN.
Two of the actors who did not vote to fight stand up.
COWARDLY ACTOR
This is not our fight. We don't have to die he said so.
NED
Get down, you idiots.
COWARDLY ACTOR
You should send the women out.
NED
I will kill you my fucking self for even suggesting it.
COWARDLY ACTOR
You can't keep us here.
They both rush for the door. A few try to stop them. They open the door and get about six feet before being pulled apart by the floating zombies.
Will slams the door shut.
NED
Well we know how far we can get now at night.

INT GREEN MAN.NIGHT
Ned stands slowly and the others do the same.
NED
Hands, come to the wall we should talk.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
Hands walks to the wall.
HANDS
Talk.
INT GREEN MAN.
NED
My name is Ned Goodthrust. I have no ambition to wait in here another night so lets have a little wager. I will wager that in a fair fight, face to face in daylight without your little floaty friends around we can beat your sorry gang of toothless peasants
toothless Watt thinks he means him and gestures

So what say you stop pissing in the wind and you give me a good crack at splitting your fucking skull. You will find us not as easy as the poor bastards of Burrowmore. 
 
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS
I wish to talk with Molly
INT GREEN MAN.
NED
Try not to antagonize him further Molly, my sweet.
MOLLY
This is Molly. Say your piece you fucking shit.
Ned just looks at her open-mouthed
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS
Ever the sharp tongue hey, Molly. You should have stayed on your boat. A lot of people have died because of what you did. Helena has a duty to her father and to her power. As for you I shall take great pleasure in killing you as I should have done when that Irish hoar gave you breath. Helen is only your half sister Molly. Your mother was a hoar who died giving you a life you do not deserve. That is why you don't have the power of your sister
Molly is silent 
hands (CONT'D)
Cats got your tongue now Eh Molly.
Molly looks at Helen.
HANDS (CONT'D)

... Goodthrust!
INT GREEN MAN.
NED
Yes.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS
I will give you your fight..At dawn we will face each other. If you lose, which most assuredly you shall. Then Helen will finish what she started.
INT GREEN MAN.
NED
If we lose then we must agree but we won't lose. You will die.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS
You mistake me Goodthrust that was not a question. You may in the night wish to simply push Helena through the door and save yourself...Until the dawn.
INT GREEN MAN.
NED
Before we go can we determine exactly what time you consider is dawn. For myself I like to get a full night's sleep. I see dawn as about ten.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
HANDS
Dawn is dawn.
INT GREEN MAN.
NED
Just checking. Dawn it is then.
The rest of the room, somewhat blood-spattered is stunned into silence.
EXT FOREST NIGHT
Hands is once again in the forest at his make shift alter calling the spirits. 
The mist is down and the naked girl is standing before him.
HANDS
Grant me this one power. I must be able to kill in your name without retribution. This will be a swift and total end to this matter.
My daughters soul is your key to this world. Once the door is open you must keep your promise and give me absolute power.
SPIRIT
We desire only the key. Do what you will.
INT INN NIGHT
Stanton has most of the men lined up some with swords some without. Its an pathetic site. They are clearly not fighting men
sTANTON
Parry-thrust-parry thrust.
Ned stands next to Stanton
nED
Well?
sTANTON
We are truly fucked, Ned. 
Ignoring him
nED
We have what we have. We must take stock of our weapons. Hold up your sword if you have one.
Only a few have sword.
STANTON
Not enough.
nED
Then we must use whatever we can find
MOLLY
I can help there.
Everyone's attention is drawn to Molly.
MOLLY (CONT'D)
Follow me.
INT ROOM NIGHT
Everyone follows her. They crowd round a door as it opens. In fact they are too crowded and Ned gets jostled quite a bit.
NED
Would You back off a bit please. Bloody hell. I hope you're this eager when the fighting starts.
He backs out while all the actors crowd in the room. Inside the room is a treasure trove of weapons and armour of every kind.
NED (CONT'D)
You truly are a witch.
MOLLY
This used to be a brothel. Clearly not everyone had money to pay with. Some of it is very old.
NED
Genius. Help yourselves gentlemen.
The rooms gets very crowded as each are enthusiastically, (even competitively), choosing weapons. 
Sound of zombie crashing about downstairs. It is the man shot up his nose. Up and crashing about
Ned and Stanton rush to the balcony and look down
STANTON
He's dead, Ned.
NED
Indeed he is, Captain. 
jOHN DEE
He can not harm us inside the garland.

Ned walks forward close to dead man. The zombie does nothing. Ned prods him with his sword. The zombie stands for a while.
Then slowly opens his mouth and lets out a terrible scream. The Zombie then grabs NED around the throat. 
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Ah But then again the bullet got through didn't it
NED is choking but can't get the zombie of him Stanton joins in and is knocked out of the way. 
Others including Will and Molly leap on the Zombie and manage to pull it off Ned. 
They all step back as the Zombie tries to focus on a target. 
With a thwopping sound Stanton lops off the zombies head. 
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Most curious. This was not expected. The garland must be getting week. 
Ned talking while breathing inwards to clear his throat
NED
Glad we worked that out before someone got hurt (Slightly sarcastic and irritated).
jOHN DEE
Indeed. 
JOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Every journey begins with a single step 
and as you see they can be rendered harmless. We should tie it up though
The headless body just stumbles around hitting walls etc.
a kind of blind mans bluff. Everyone running around scared.
NED shouts get a rope someone. Tie it up. In the confusion many men grab the zombie and hold it.
Helena
There's is no rope.
	NED 
Outside with it then.
They march the struggling zombie to the door. They open it only to be confronted by one of Hands' men posted at the door.
As they begin to close the door the man is screaming with a very girly Ned Flanders scream as the zombie is pushed onto him. 
STANTON
So it's the head then?
Stanton holds up the still animated head there is a noise as something hits the floor below the head
sTANTON (CONT'D)
Oh look its the bullet
. Stanton opens the door a fraction and throws out the head. There is another girly scream from the man outside
NED
If they can't see us they can't kill us right?
jOHN DEE
It would seem the best option
 
The camera pans across the MOTLEY actors who are not entirely convinced
nED
Gentlemen, and ladies of course. 
George gives him a little curtsy. Ned just looks elsewhere
nED (CONT'D)
At dawn we have a fight on our hands with mortal men. We are armed and our lives depend upon the level of violence we can deliver. Speed and aggression are the key. If we are successful we have only the day to get free of this forest before the dead rise. So nothing fancy. I offer you good military advice. Hack them hard and run like fuck.

EDWARD KELLEY
There is something that you all seem to have forgotten. Tomorrow is the solstice. The spirits will be at their most powerful and desperate. 
NED
If we are out of the forest they can do what the fuck they like.
EDWARD KELLEY
Helena is what they want. For them her soul is the key. 
mOLLY
But they can't have it
EDWARD KELLEY
You should consider all options that is all I am saying.
STANTON (very angry)
No you're not. You're suggesting we sacrifice Helena. 
Stanton draws his sword and holds it at Kelleys throat
sTANTON (CONT'D)
Choose your next word with exceptional care,
Dr. Dee gently grabs the end of Stantons sword and lowers it from Kelleys neck
Stanton looks at Helena. Who responds with a surprised but warm accepting smile. There is general disquiet in the room.
jOHN DEE
please be calm. There is more than just our lives at stake here. If we don't send them back and close this Hellmouth our whole world will be like this. 
It is not enough that we escape. It is our only chance to send these demons back to where they belong.
nED
What?
jOHN DEE
I was sent here by Her Majesty to put right this wrong. If the door is fully opened a plague on our earth of the like never before witnessed. Not one of us will be safe anywhere, ever. 
nED
In case you have not noticed most of these people present are not soldiers Dr. Dee. They are actors. Some of them are barely men.  We now must somehow perform some kind of miracle. This is what we will do. We will escape this place with our lives if we can. Fuck the plague these things will bring. That's the world's problem not our.
General agreement in the room
wILL
Ned, I must speak for Dr. Dee. The spirits of our land are what keep the balance. They are the air we breath, the grass beneath our feet. I have been brought up with a belief in God, as have all good Englishmen, but I have known the forest here long enough to hold the spirits within it as part of my faith. These phantoms that now abound and hold us and our own spirits prisoner are not of this earth. They do not belong. 

We are here now. All of us for a reason. It is not enough for us to save our own skin. I must ask you all a very important question. What world do we want to live in? One that stinks of death and decay...because that is our legacy if we do nothing. I trust in Dr. Dee.
NEd
Spoken like a poet master Shakespeare. There is a time for poetry, though Lord knows when that is. And there is a time for total violence. That is now. You know what I trust? I trust that man over there...
pointing at Stanton, 
Helena stands on her own breathing heavily and very distressed by all that is being shouted in the Inn
nED (CONT'D)
I trust Molly and the sword by my side and though I am sure I will regret it, but I trust these men to fight for their lives.
jOHN DEE
You are a fool.
nED
At dawn we go out there. We fight and we escape. 

FOREST NIGHT
The headless body continues staggering around until it hits a tree and continues to step forward hitting the tree each time.
GRESHAM COOPER and his brother WATT COOPER stand and watch it.
		GRESHAM COOPER
It's wrong that is. I have no stomach for this
WATT COOPER throws a stone at the zombie.
WATT COOPER
There is no harm in it. Its only like a chicken when it's head is cut off.
GRESHAM COOPER
No this is evil magic. Hands is in league with the devil, I am sure of it. What does that make us?
WATT COOPER
Employed. 

What difference does it make who we work for? These things can't harm us while we have these.
He holds out a talisman hanging on a cord around his neck.
GRESHAM COOPER
We have seen untold horrors in this and what will we achieve?
They do not see Hands behind them
HANDS
I promised you a place in my new world. Our journey is almost at an end and you will be by my side as kings. You have seen the spirits and what they can do. They are not false Gods. You don't need faith any more because they move among us. We will no longer be mortal. We will each have the power of Gods when this is done.
Hands walks away WATT COOPER looks at his brother GRESHAM COOPER.
WATT COOPER
That's nice int it? And dad said we wouldn't amount to anything. We're gonna be Gods.

EXT WOODS:DAY
No sign of any Zombies and the area looks peaceful
GREEN MAN DAY
All are standing inside the inn armed to the teeth. There is a grim mood in the Inn. Many are clearly very scared. 
One of the actors is rearranging the plume on his companions helmet in a very camp manor.
STANTON
Lets get at it then!
NED
Molly, are you ready? Stay close to the door at least.
mOLLY
As if I would.
She looks at him showing his first real bit of care and she smiles at that.
jOHN DEE
I beg of you all to consider what you are doing here. Give Master Kelley and I the chance to work this out.
nED
More magic, Dee? It's magic that got us into this. It's steel that will finish it.
JOHN DEE
Grant us this only. It is three miles from the gate. Clear the path for us and we will do the rest. You can carry on and escape the woods.
Ned thinks about it and he looks around the room at the frightened faces. He looks at Molly who smiles at him.
nED
Kelley and Glum keep Helena safe in here until they are defeated. 
Ned turns to Dee
nED (CONT'D)
Have you ever used a sword?
jOHN DEE
While you were wet behind the ears
nED
Grab a sword, Beardface, and lets get going. 
Ned Molly and Stanton are the first out followed by Will and the others. Tentatively across the threshold. Expecting who knows what, but nothing happens.
Ned looks a little puzzled by this.
Across the clearing there is no one. Then Hands steps out followed by his men.
NED (CONT'D)
Well it's dawn! As you can see we are armed and ready. 
Hands men just laugh at the actors who look very awkward in ill fitting armour and helmets. One drops his pike.
Actor
Sorry.
NED
I see we are evenly matched in number at least.
HANDS
Where is Helena?.
Helena becomes visible inside the doorway. Helena looks at Hands there is a strange look of sadness between them.
HANDS (CONT'D)
Helena. You look well!
Helena
I am well..So do you.
Stanton is not happy about this exchange and neither is Ned
NED
So what do we do now, kiss and make up'
HANDS
Who are you?
Ned begins a bit of a speech
NED
I am Ned Goodthrust your nemesis. I am here to...
STANTON
Fuck this!!!
Stanton runs at them screaming. Hands men respond and as Stanton takes out two of them the battle begins. Glum stands in front of Helena with sword drawn.
Hands steps back to let his men do the work Ned is fighting also and dispatches a couple. The actors have a brave show but are mostly posturing in the background really trying their best not to get into the thick of it.
One of the actors gets into a wrangle with a bad guy and is saved as Will leaps in and dispatches the bad guy. 
A couple of hands men get dispatched. 
Hands has moved with a couple of his men around the side and makes a play for Molly. 
Ned seeing that Molly is getting the worst end of one of them steps in and kills her assailant. She is thrilled by this act of passion by Ned.
Actually the ferocity that Ned and the others but mostly Molly fight causes Hands' men to back off a little. They have become a strong force. Maybe even too strong for Hands's men. 
There is clearly a backing off which the actors enjoy and begin to show more bravery. Actually quite ruthless bravery.
A gap between the two forces widens leaving just the dead on the floor.
No one quite knows what to do.
NED
What is this have we won?
At this many more of Hands men come in fresh from the side.
NED (CONT'D)
Jesus! Inside!!
They all begin to rush back inside leaving Will and Stanton keeping them back from the door until they too go in and the door closes.
Everyone inside is exhausted, bloody, excited.
STANTON (screams out in anger)
What the fuck happened there? I never took you for a coward, Ned. We had 'em.
NED
No we didn't, Captain. We fought well. Bloody well, but we are outnumbered. How many more waves does he have ready to come in? 
Ned puts his arms around Molly and pats her shoulder.
NED (CONT'D)
The battles lost, Molly not the war.
MOLLY
Goodthrust! If you patronize me again, I swear I'll put my sword through you - even if I have to then hack your head off to make sure I've shut you up. I've been in this for a year, you've just arrived and you're not listening to me, or anyone else, who really know's what's going on here.
NED
Moll...
MOLLY
Ned, I'm really, really glad that you are here. But, will you stop treating me like one of those girly minces over there and remember that I made my living as a pirate for a good many years before I ended up in this prison.
From outside
HANDS
Goodthrust!
He listens but does not answer
HANDS (CONT'D)
You cannot win. I hope that this much you have learned.
NED
And..
HANDS
And send Helena out and you may all leave.
ACTOR
Lets do it!
NED
No..do you really think he will just let us walk away?
HANDS
This will be finished my way before the mid of night. Then you will see the true meaning of the word power.

jOHN DEE
He is not the master . He is only the servant. He has no control over these spirits. He is deluded.
nED
That may be true, Doctor Dee, but we are still in here. Out of options.
Suddenly the bolt is heard on the door. Everyone spins around to see Helena opening the door.
sTANTON
Helena NO
mOLLY
Stop Helena NO
Stanton rushes but is just too late as Helena steps outside and the door closes behind her. Stanton is about to open it when NED who slams the door shut against to the door first and blocks it
sTANTON
Get out of the way Ned or I will go through you.
NED can see the passion and determination on Stanton's face.
nED
We'll go together.
EXT INN NIGHT
NED, STANTON, MOLLY (with bow drawn) WILL step outside the door. 
Helena stands half way as HANDS steps forward still keeping a little distance. He gestures for his men to hold back.
sTANTON
Helena, come back.
Hands is intrigued by this show of feeling from Stanton. 
Hands looks around the woods to see if anything comes. Its quiet. But he is strangely fearful and nervous
hANDS
Helena?
sTANTON
If you harm her!
hANDS
Helena
Helena
We have to end this now don't we?
She pulls a dagger and holds it to her throat.
Helena (CONT'D)
This is what you want.
I had to try to stop you. What you were doing was Evil. And what you have done since is evil. 
Helena turns to look at Stanton who is being held back by Ned and Will. 
Helena (CONT'D)
Our spell would have unleashed hell on earth. 
hANDS
We can only take our place at their right hand when  the gate is fully open. It is your destiny Helena and mine
nED
Helena this is not the way. If they have you they will win. If they take your soul we cannot possibly stop them.
Helena
Stand there Richard don't move. I heard what was said in there. All this is my fault.
mOLLY
No its Not Helena its not your fault. You tried to stop this.
Helena
But I couldn't could I. I heard what Dr. Dee said. Why you came back Molly. You came back to kill me didn't you.

mOLLY
I would not have done it. Helena this is not the way. Don't do this. . please. Don't let him win.
helana
Maybe he is right. What if it is my destiny. What have I got in this world Spirits if you want me here I am. Take me now
The forest seems to come alive with lights and noises near and far and a heavy mist swirls in. This causes high anxiety in the gathering on both sides
hANDS
Helena go inside. Now I have no control over this.
In the mist Stanton runs towards Helena. As does hands at the same time. 
Hands and Stanton clash for a few seconds and in the mist they both see Helena surrounded at very close quarters by a number of hideous spirits 
Both Stanton and Hands stunned and horrified Ned turns on his heels and shouts
nED
Protect, Molly. Get inside.
Hands tries to protect Helena with his talisman. She is being pulled away from him. Hands screams out
HANDS 
Spirits this is not our bargain. You cannot take her this way. 
Close to the woods he see's his men being thrown around and naturally there is a rush for the door to the Inn and safety. 
Once all our men are in hands leads his own men to the door but cannot get in.
hANDS (CONT'D)
Molly for the love of God invite us in. 
His men are being killed at the back
HANDS (CONT'D)
Please. This was not meant to happen. I tried to protect you Dee you know that only I can undo this spell now.
Dee looks at Molly amid great anxiety. He reaches up and parts the garland. 
nED
Are you fucking mad?
Ned rushes to the garland but Hands and his men push in.
When the last one is in Dee re-connects the Garland and the door and Kelley slams the door shut. 
Inside the Inn is utter mayhem with shuffling and fighting Stanton grabs for Hands and they fight. 
mOLLY
Stop it (she screams) Stop it (To Dee) What have you done?
Even Dee is not sure he did the right thing.
jOHN DEE
Every man who dies becomes an army of the dead. We could not beat them alive. Do you think we have more of a chance if we add to the number of dead out there.
nED
You are crazy
Ned waves his sword at Dee but is intercepted by Glum. Ned fights off glum in a couple of strokes
nED (CONT'D)
I will show you who is a fucking simpleton.
 But NED is stopped and lifted off the ground by the throat by Kelley
mOLLY
No Stop stop, Ned, he's right. Dee?
jOHN DEE
Alright, Master Kelley.
Kelley lowers Ned. Ned is very sore and very angry. Dee stands on the table and Glum stands in front of him in protection
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Stop everyone stop this. 
His commanding voice takes hold and they begin the stop
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Everyone. The fight between us must stop
Stanton lets go of Hands who mediately crouches terrified in a corner dragging chairs around him. Stanton looks bemused at him. Hands men stop fighting and back off a little facing the actors. Hands men look very disturbed by the garish actors some in full stage make up. One of the actors looks at one of hands men and smiles disturbingly at him
actor
Nice sash. It's definitely your colour
jOHN DEE
I brought you in and saved your lives. Look at your master now. He cowers a broken man. Put down your swords. It cannot finish this way.
Molly rushes to Hands grabs his hair and screams
mOLLY
What have they done with Helena? Is she dead?
Ned holds Molly back
nED
Everyone stay calm.
The room is clearly divided with the two fractions Dee with Kelley at his side is in the middle
jOHN DEE
Any power that you thought you had is lost my friend. You cannot bargain with such evil. The hunter is now the hunted and come midnight you will ALL suffer the same fate.
nED
What now?
jOHN DEE
There has always only ever been one option. We are all human beings. Right now the only human beings who can save our world. We have to return these beasts and close the gate at Midnight using the occult.
nED
I don't even know what the gate is how do we close it.
jOHN DEE
This man knows its secret. We need him now.
mOLLY
Doctor Dee what about Helena?
jOHN DEE
I think that she is safe until midnight as she is the final key that they need. We can only hope this is the case my dear.
nED
They wont let us get the to the gate without a fight. I am ready.
sTANTON
And I.
Hands speaks without looking up
hANDS
You won't get further than that door.
nED
Then we know who is going first don't we,
Dee walks over and stoops near Hands
jOHN DEE
You have to tell us. You know that your soul is at stake here. We have only death to face. You have the most to lose here don't you?
nED
How do you work that out
Dee pulls back Hands head and he has a blank expression on his face and dark rims around his eyes
jOHN DEE
He has traded his soul for power. You see our friend here is already dead. Why else did his talisman not work to save Helena.
mOLLY
Because he wants her dead.
jOHN DEE
Oh no dear. That's not what he wanted at all is it, Master Hands? A vital part of your spell was your soul wasn't it right from the beginning. You gave that up freely even before the The spell was cast at the shrine because of the promise of great power.
john dee (CONT'D)
When Helena pulled away from the spell and closed the Hellmouth too soon. Your pact with the devil ended and the spirits that were released neither had sufficient power to control anything beyond the forest at night, And they could not return without both of your combined spell or the valued prize of her pure soul.
You knew that power would never be yours and that she would never willingly cast that spell. You cast the Green man spell here didn't you   waited keeping the spirits appeased with fresh souls hoping that Helen would break and give in. Well now she has. You have to put it right. 
Hands looks decidedly ill now. Red eyes and sweating.
hands
My daughter made herself the key. I was promised that she would have eternal life and they would have my soul in her place.
jOHN DEE
You cannot bargain with such things
nED
You mean eternal death you mad bastard she would have had eternity in the same hell as you. Jeez and my dad only beat me with a stick. He's a fucking saint compared to you. 
HANDS
All is lost for me my soul is damned.
mOLLY
Not for Helena yet though. Do one decent thing in that miserable life of yours and help us save her. 

stanton
Oh Jesu this place is so fucked up.
molly
I trust you as little now you're dead as when alive. If there is a chance of saving Helena. You have to do it.
JOHN DEE                                         
There are many who seek eternal life. Some through a faith, some through there search for the secret of life itself. It is a powerful force that drives men to play god. A destructive force for which we can only pity this poor soul.
hANDS
I don't want your pity. I had the end to this out there in my grasp. I did not call for her to die. I could not. After all that has happened I could not see her destroyed  Now they will take her soul at midnight and the gate will be open. If we do not stop them. Only at sunset can the green man be conjured. We must call him. Only he can give us the protection to guard us on the journey to the gate.
John DEE
Master Kelley! Let us prepare
INT:INN: NIGHT (Later)

Hands who now looks very ill indeed sits opposite Kelley. Kelley reaches across the table to hold hands. 
There is an instant reaction and they both throw back there heads
jOHN DEE
Everyone must remain still and calm. No matter what you see or hear. For now you are safe in the garland still. What you see can do you no harm. The Green man is the spirit of all nature on this earth. We call upon him to give us the protection that will keep us safe on our journey to the shrine. The evil spirits will try to trick us. Be aware they are but images of air and can not touch you.
sTANTON
How the fuck does he know all this
will
He is the Merlin.
sTANTON
Who's the Merlin?
wILL
He is.
sTANTON
No I mean who or what is the Merlin
nED
Will you two just Watch.
The Room becomes full of strange mists and from  the open mouths of hands and Kelley is a rush of light that meet in the middle of the table.
sTANTON
jeez
Around the room vapors and mists begin to swirl
jOHN DEE
Ignore those gentlemen
all people in the room are getting very skittish as these vapor swirl half taking hideous shape and then passing them by The room gets very busy with these spirits careering around. 
Then a blast from the centre of the table moves outwards clearing the spirits away and a form of the green man begins to take shape. 
John Dee is beside himself with excitement at this vision. 
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
It is he. The spirit of nature
when enough of the shape has formed john Dee steps forward
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Oh most ancient of spirits we are your humble servants. We are here to right this wrong and restore order. 
The other spirits arrive again and begin swirling
sTANTON
o oh they're back
JOHN DEE
 Have no fear they can do no harm
The Green man opens his mouth and lets out a howl of agony as the other mists and vapors fill the room. 
An explosion of energy throws everyone down. 
When the mists have gone and people begin picking themselves up.
nED
Hands has gone.
jOHN DEE
Did he escape or did they take him?
NED
 Who cares. I knew he was lying. Now we have nothing but our wits and our courage. That's enough for me. Its time to go. Listen everyone. Its us or them now. You men who followed hands you see he has just left you to die. You have to fight with us if you want to survive this
INT INN NIGHT
They are arming themselves again with everything they can. This time Hands men are joining in.

Ned and Stanton and Molly stand by the door. Ned turns to look at all assembled. It is now quite a force. Stanton turns to all assembled and blows out his chest.
sTANTON
 We need every single man here to get us to the shrine. If we win this day
We can bare our scares and every man in England will curse himself for not being here upon this day.
He has roused them all and they draw swords and cheer
nED
Lets go show these fucker's what the flesh and blood of the living of this kingdom can do. Make as much noise as you can fellows. Show them we are here
Ned and Stanton and Molly lead a screaming army outside with swords held high. 
Dr. Dee has brought the old drum and he beats it.
In the courtyard to the pub they all stop in readiness.
There is nothing there to threaten them and all is silent
nED (CONT'D)
Hold gentlemen. This could be trickery.
MOLLY
We must move with haste Ned
nED
Lead the way master Molly
jOHN DEE
Should I bang on the drum
molly
I think they know we are here (Dee looks a bit disappointed that he cant bang his drum)  Just keep your eyes open men. They will try to stop us. Be ready. 
EXT FOREST NIGHT
The band move forward through the woods. 
They are being Watched as inhuman eyes observe them at a distance. 
The band move in careful silence. Some are clearly more scared than others.
The actors at the rear along with Ex hands men are careful to keep looking behind them. 
The woods are dark and there is a heavy summer mist. 
GLUM puts his hand on a tree to negotiate a fallen log only to find it is covered in gunk. 
GLUM
Oh,fuck.
Watt and Gresham think they see something moving a small distance alongside them. At first not sure then it becomes clear it is a naked female.
WATT COOPER
Did you see that
GRESHAM COOPER
I think so
WATT COOPER
Bubbies and everything.
GRESHAM COOPER
just ignore it. It wont be real.
WATT COOPER
come on GRESHAM it bloody looked real. What if its one of the witches? Or some mistress that's lost.
GRESHAM COOPER
naked in the forest. Have you not heard or seen anything that's happening here. Leave it.
WATT COOPER
Your scared of a young mistress.
GRESHAM COOPER
What if she's dead?
WATT COOPER
She's got tits ain't she. We still got these (holding his talisman) Come on
WATT COOPER ducks out of the group to go in search of the naked girl
GRESHAM COOPER
They don't work any more Watt your the only tit around here.
Too late he is already separated from the group and trying to find the girl
WATT COOPER
Miss. Where are you. Don't be afraid. My names WATT COOPER. It don't matter if you're dead. I will look after you.
There is a rustle in the bushes as Watt steps forward and clears away the bushes. Stooped and sobbing is the naked girl. 
WATT COOPER (CONT'D)
There you are mistress. There's people with me that can help you. Come on before they get too far. If you're nice to me they can get you your life back. That's if your dead... 
He sees that she has her throat cut.
WATT COOPER (CONT'D)
You look dead...
A slop of gunk hits his face from above.
WATT COOPER (CONT'D)
we you dirty bastard
WATT COOPER looks up and sees nothing. He turns around wiping his face and is confronted by the upside down face of a male zombie hanging at his face level. 
WATT COOPER steps back but is stabbed by a piece of wood from behind by the naked girl.
WATT Coopers scream's are heard by the group who stop suddenly. They are put on alert.
OLIVER one of the actors gets some slop on his shoulder and looks up. High in moonlit trees float a number of silhouetted zombies. They swing from tree to tree to.
oliver
look. In the tree tops.
All look up and ready there swords as the first wave of zombies begin pulling themselves down. 
jOHN DEE
they will try to stop us
nED
We must move and fight.
Some of the zombies are armed with swords axes logs etc. And they swing at the group as they float past holding onto branches etc.
OLIVER thrashes his sword in the air cutting a few limbs off before having his face sliced open. 
Almost the moment that Oliver falls and dies he is animated again and he too floats upside down into the air and become a zombie opponent. 
Others in the group are moving fast and fighting at the same time. One gets picked up into the air and impaled on a branch. 
Some zombies are decapitated and simply stagger around. 
Ned Molly Will and Stanton and Glum fight also but get a few scratches in the process. Not before taking out a few zombies. 
The dead man on the branch pulls himself off and joins the zombie army. Ned and Molly fight side by side.
GRESHAM COOPER is fighting zombies and then confronted by WATT COOPER 
GRESHAM COOPER
Oh you silly sod Was it worth it? 
Watt hits him with a stick across the base of his neck
gresham cooper (CONT'D)
Ow you little shit. I cant fight you go and fight someone else. You got yourself all dead you idiot.
Watt hits him again. Gresham hits him back. They trade a few blows like this more like brothers than deadly adversaries. Then Watt growls with slime dribbling from his mouth.
gRESHAM COOPER (CONT'D)
Oh jeez
Gresham hacks at his brothers head and it takes a few gruesome blows before his brothers head is hanging only on a tag of skin. Watt staggers off with his head dangling 
FURTHER UP THE LINE
EDWARD KELLEY
These creatures need the trees we have to find some open ground.
MOLLY
there is a clearing not far this way.
Molly fights off the swooping zombies and runs. All follow her fighting as they go. 
They clear the trees into a small tree less area and the zombies can go no further. They gather in the trees around them.
Molly (CONT'D)
who ever is killed by these creatures joins them against us remember that.
nED
Only the heads stop them boys. Are we ready to face them again?
GRESHAM COOPER
I am. They made me kill my own brother. I will take as many of them as I can before they get me.
nED
How far to the shrine Molly?
MOLLY
Not far but the forest is dense
STANTON
Is there a stream or river that could take us there?.
MOLLY
Yes part of the way at least
nED
What are you thinking Captain?
sTANTON
trees grow either side of a river not in the middle of it If its wide enough they wont be able to get at us..
nED
good thinking. Molly take us to the river.
MOLLY
This way
nED
Be ready gentlemen.
Richard Tarleton who is much shorter is confronted by a very tall zombie. He clearly could not reach the head. He thinks for a second then swipe both the legs off below the knee. The zombie falls to his stumps with a thump as Richard now able to swipe off the head. 
richard tarleton
How very satisfying
They rush back into the woods and instantly the zombies are upon them. 
The hacking and running is more intense now and we lose a few from our group who instantly become enemy.
 The group move faster and faster until they fall out of the dense forest into a small shallow winding river. 
As they splash forward led by Molly with cutlass in hand the zombies swing from side to side but it is generally safer and easier to defend. 
The band are getting quite bloody and tired now and the fighting is relentless. 
As they come to a bend in the river which is blocked by a fallen tree.
MOLLY
The village is over there now. We have to go back through the forest. 
nED
So be it. Come gentlemen we are almost there. Fight bravely
sTANTON
What about when we get there?
jOHN DEE
We have worse to face.
Molly
Think of Helena Captain. Think of Helena.
sTANTON
I have no fear Molly. I will fight the devil himself if I have to
EDWARD KELLEY
You may yet!
Fortunately only Molly and Ned hears this as they scramble and fight there way up the bank and into the zombie army.
Stanton Hacks away at the zombies like a man possessed given strength in being close to where Helena may be found. Ned and Will Molly and even Dr. Dee fight vigorously 
They stumble out of the woods into the clearing of the skeletal remains of the burned out village. The zombies cannot come any further. For now there is a little respite
sTANTON
They cant come any further but why is this place not guarded
nED
Who knows. I am sure that we are being watched though. We have stung them Captain but they will not give up I am sure.
The village is a very spooky place
mOLLY
Oh my God. There were good people here. 
jOHN DEE
There are good people everywhere my dear. That's why we have to do this thing. Mistress Molly you got us here and I commend you for it. Master Stanton and Goodthrust I fear I shall have to call on you. On all of you for further effort anon. 
john dee (CONT'D)
The gate.
mOLLY
In the centre of the village.
sTANTON
Stay close lets get to it. 
Stanton moves off with passion
molly
Its not that way Captain. Follow me
nED
I will go first Molly
mOLLY
Do you know which way?
nED
No
mOLLY
Best if I lead then as I do
nED
You have my permission
molly
smiles) Thank you.
nED
This way men. Stay close
EXT:RUINED VILLAGE:DAY
the group slowly pick there way through a labyrinth of burned timbers. 
Some of the doors that are not completely burned the red hand prints can be seen. 
EXT:PRIESTS HOUSE:DAY
Will walks past an open door and turns to Ned. 
wILL
The priest
nED
What 
wILL
He was a priest
nED
So
wILL
I have to do something. Master Kelley. Can you return one mans soul to God.
nED
Will we don't have time for this
wILL
Can you do it
EDWARD KELLEY
I can try
nED
Are you mad. One mans soul when the whole fucking world is at stake.
wILL
Humanity Ned. A good deed amidst all this horror. We could do with God on our side
nED
Shakespeare you do talk some Bollox. You got five minutes. Everyone backs to this building and keep your eyes open. Shakespeare if it gets rough out here we are gone do you understand
wILL
Of course. Master Kelley?
John Dee, Kelley and Will go inside. 
INT:BRICK ROOM:DAY
In the brick room the table stands as does the priest. His shackles hold firm but he is clearly in agony and anger. 
wILL
Master Kelley 
EDWARD KELLEY
You have to hold him. Hold his arms if you can
will and Dee get close and with much force grab his arms to restrain the priest. Kelley steps forward and places his hand on the priests heart. The priest moans and screams and then for a second goes still and silent.
EDWARD KELLEY (CONT'D)
Et sancti de benna fortuna mahnetis omnitpetenetis.
preist
Et sancti de benna fortuna mahentis omnitpenenetis. 
Blood once again begins to flow from his throat wound. For a moment the priests gaze looks human again. At that the body falls to the seat.
EXT:PRIESTS HOUSE:DAY
Will Dee and Kelley exit. The whole forest seems to be full of the moaning and screaming of the dead. The group move of through the broken village
MOLLY
Hideous. Tormented creatures. 
nED
Are they devils Dr. Dee? In the heaven and hell sense?
jOHN DEE
Horrors not of this world. Not of any world but existing in the spirit frame of another place. As our spirits exist in a place close to ours and cross into our world where the fabric is at its thinnest. Heaven and Hell though? You tell me. I suspect that God has very little to do with it. I think that is the real fantasy.
nED
Hmm. I must admit I have pondered that one many times. It seems to me that the evil done in the name of God far outweighs the good.
mOLLY
Do you realize that we are talking heresy
molly (CONT'D)
Helena said that our spirits enter through Mushroom rings and sidhe's to name but a few. A whole world of creatures who keep our world as it should be. 
nED
Then where do these demons come from?
john dee
From somewhere much deeper I suspect. Ned Master Kelley and I will need a little time to prepare for the gate. 
nED
We will give you what we can Dr. But what do you hope to do
jOHN DEE
Master Kelley has communicated with the spirit world through balls of crystal. If anyone is the Merlin it is he.
Stanton joins them
sTANTON
How are we going to get Helena back
nED
Apparently Master Kelley has crystal balls.
Stanton looks utterly dumfounded but cant resist a brief glance at Kelleys groin area.
wILL
There!
In front of them is the circle of stones, but already an eerie mist circles them. They are at the edge of the buildings.
JOHN DEE
Hold fast everyone. It is odd that the forest is protected and this place not. I fear our greatest challenge is upon us here.
nED
I will go first
mOLLY
Why you? Ever the hero, Eh Ned. I got us into this I will go. 
nED
No.
sTANTON
I shall go. 
Ned and Molly don't like that either
sTANTON (CONT'D)
Look. I am a soldier and I have faced many dangers often for causes that I have not known or understood. This one. Helena, is I think a worthy cause. If I fall then you will know what you face. 
jOHN DEE
You are indeed a brave man
STANTON
I think a stupid one, but I thank you.
Stanton holds out his hand for Ned. They grasp hands and shake. Molly leans forward and kisses him.
NED
Look Captain I know that sometimes I treated you less than well, and have over the years got you into unfortunate situations.
sTANTON
Actually a total shit if you must know
NED
 Is that really what you think?

Stanton nods. Yes
nED
..This situation is sadly.
Ned right hooks Stanton to the floor.
nED (CONT'D)
mine to sort out. 
EXT:CLOSE TO CIRCLE OF STONES:DAY
Ned is about to step into the mist but is stopped as Hands (now looking like death warmed up) steps in front of him. Stanton stands up
nED
Hands I was wondering when you would turn up. Where is Helena.
hANDS
You love the sound of your own voice don't you...its not that great you know. And when you do all that deep stuff sounding stuff. Its obvious your putting it on. And I don't believe your hair is really that black I mean what are you 50?
nED
What you gonna do Hands insult me to death. If my fight is with you? This I gladly take on
hANDS
Would that it were that simple .Your fight is not with me I afraid. I am your saviour. If you step forward you will die instantly. In only a short time the gate will open and hell will cross into this world. I for one have seen enough Hell and have no ambition to see anymore. Dr. Dee?
Dee stands up and walks a little way in. 
hANDS (CONT'D)
You said to me that I could not bargain with the spirits. You are a learned man and you were right. As a simple peasant myself I have knowledge for you. It is true that to bargain with the devil is foolhardy. I tried this and paid my price in life and in death. Even in the afterlife the prospect is far from appealing. At the Inn master Kelley and I touched the spirit of the green man. An ancient and benevolent spirit that took pity on my soul. It is for this reason that I do this. Here is the spell that will close the gate.
Dr. Dee steps forward and takes a small leather pouch from Hands.
nED
That's it???
jOHN DEE
May god have mercy on your soul
hands smiles
hANDS
I think my soul is in good hands. Dr. Dee. Now Master Kelley. This is what you came for. Molly we need you
Molly is shocked and horrified by thus
mOLLY
I would kill you as soon as look at you you bastard. Release Helen from this now!
hANDS
I have no power to release her. We have no time for this. I know that you hate me and nothing I can say will make a jot of difference. We have only one chance to resolve this and there is no time to reconcile our differences. Hold my hand. 

nED
Molly?
mOLLY
I have no choice Ned. You will have to keep the creatures back.
Ned looks at Hands and evil look
hANDS
Its not those creatures I have the fear of
hands just gives Ned a bit of an evil smile. Ned utters the words under his breath 
nED
bastard
Hands looks at Molly as she reluctantly takes his hand.
mOLLY
Why?
hANDS
Power Molly. Your a pirate, you know what power is about. You are your fathers daughter after all.
mOLLY
I'm nothing like you.
hANDS
More than you think Molly. If you had had your sisters powers we would have ruled the world together with this.
mOLLY
Never (but she is not so sure)

Hands looks back at Ned, Stanton and Will then turns and begins to walk into the mist. His face and clothes rip with the power. 
Once he is in the middle he raises his arms and creates a break in the mist. The full force hitting him he screams with pain. 
John Dee and Kelley and Molly quickly rush through into the inner circle. Hands closes the break with himself on the inside
nED
I don't like him being where I cant get at him
inside the ring 
hANDS
Master Kelley. Do you have the power to do this? My plan was for Helena and I to do this together. 
Kelley reaches out both of his hands. Hands does the same bringing Molly and Dee into the group of four and they stand facing each other gripping each others hands
OUTSIDE THE RING
nED
don't let anything pass
everyone gets into battle formation around the outer stones
The group ready themselves as the zombies stumble closer. There are many of them and they are armed. They stop and do not venture forward
sTANTON
What are they waiting for?
mOLLY
The hour to Midnight maybe.
nED
Hold steady men. 
Inside the ring
Dr. Dee looks around him waiting for something to happen. Slowly the ground between them begins to tremble and spit.
hANDS
The time is coming. Dr. Dee when I give the signal you and Molly must with all your might pull Master Kelley from me. 
Outside the ring 
all is tense. Our force scan the creatures before them. One of Hands men looking around spots a zombie he knows
harold 
Look that's James Durridge the blacksmith. Hello Mr. Durridge. I was his apprentice Wondered what had happened to you.
james durridge
Hoooooooowwwwwww Haaaaaaaarrrroooowld
HAROLD
 he remembered me oh that's nice.
Inside the ring 

A jet stream shooting skyward a power contain flashes s it shoots among the trees
Outside the ring 
Ned and the other Watch the stream travel high. 
sTANTON
Here they come
the zombies all begin to moved forward. They engage with our group.
Ned and Stanton Glum and Will step forward and are dispatching zombie after zombie. The others fight in the background
One of the actors runs around the stone pillar and comes up behind the zombie sloshing off its head. 
Ned fights well and kicks one in the groin as it bends over he lops off the head.
There are now many zombies. Not all of them make it to the front line before falling apart.
Two of the actors swing there sword lopping off the head of a zombie. 
Ned, Stanton and Will are fighting together some they have to simply knock down while they fight another. 
One of the actors gets killed and immediately gets up again and joins the zombies

From behind the zombies other more unworldly creatures whoosh past them not engaging in the fight but certainly increasing the fear.
inside THE RING
HANDS
Don't loose grip yet. Master Kelley repeat this incantation. They must be sent back with the same spell that brought them here.
MOLLY
The same spell?
HANDS
Kelley will you do as I ask?
JOHN DEE
Do it master Kelley we have no choice but to trust him.
hANDS
Etma hubous dimaalli
EDWARD KELLEY
Etma hubous dimaalli
The creatures whizz around them in a frenzy and it is hard for the four to keep a grip with the movement of the earth and the winds
hANDS
Together
OUTSIDE THE RING
On hearing her name stanton swings his head round to see Helena
INSIDE THE RING
hANDS (CONT'D)
Etman hubous dimaalli
EDWARD KELLY
Etman hubous dimaalli

There is a blast and Kelley, Molly and Dee are blown to the floor
There is a look of panic on Hands face. Then another hand is slipped into his. He looks beside him and Helena stands there.
Helena
Etman humous dimmaalli
hands is momentarily speechless. Helena looks at him deeply
mOLLY
Helena
HANDS
Etman humous dimaalli
hELEN
Etman humous dimaalli

 
Outside the ring 
The group are finding themselves being pushed back by the sheer volume of zombies. They hack bravely as they are more and more covered in blood and gore at fighting such close quarters
Inside the ring 
the spirits begin to get sucked into the hole.
jOHN DEE
Its working. Upon my life 
Helena and Hands stand holding hands while the wind rages between and around them. Hands turns to look at Helena. She in turn to him. 
hANDS
Helena. I never meant for you to suffer.
hELANA
All those people Father.
hANDS
I will pay the price. Use your power wisely Helena.
Helena is ripped from her father as the spirits are being sucked into the Hellmouth. As the last spirit clinging on looses its grip and disappears the hole closes and everything goes silent

outside the ring 
all the zombies begin to collapse into a heap mid fight Much to the relief of the bloody and exhausted group.
nED
Whew what a rush. Who said the countryside was dull I've never felt so alive.
Inside the ring 
though the door has closed with the spirits gone everything still vibrates. Hands stands in the centre. Stanton and Ned rush inside. Stanton grabs Helena and Ned grabs Molly. 
Helena is Watching Hands though. 
Hands smiles at her and she smiles back. 
hANDS
I am sorry my dear for all I have done. This is the end of my bargain.
Hands head is thrown back and his arms outstretched. 
From his mouth shoot two branches of a tree and as Hands convulses his entire body begins to change
Stanton Shields Helena from the view. 
Hands slowly but surely takes on the appearance no longer of human form but of a tree. Until he is still and silent.
Everyone stands in silence and takes in what has happened and that it is actually over. 
Hands men and the actors begin congratulating themselves. 
John Dee who is still on the floor is helped to his feet by Glum and Kelley

They stand for a second looking at the pile of corpses and then the new tree.

Ned is on a real high.
Molly
When you finally come down Ned let me know
nED
Can you get me more of that on the open sea?
mOLLY
In abundance.
NED
Right lets go steal a ship. Ned Goodthrust the pirate. I like the ring of that. Hey why are pirates called pirates. I know.
nED (CONT'D)
Because they aaaaaargh
mOLLY
Bacause they aaaaaargh
Molly looks at Stanton who just shrugs his shoulders. He stands behind Helen as..
Helena stands looking at the tree that was once her father She walks over to it and gently kisses it.
She turns lets out a blow of air and smiles feeling quite up-beat that it is all ended. Stanton hugs her.
Helena
Richard are you going with Ned?
sTANTON
Of course
He can see that Helen is very keen now finally and he thinks twice about his answer
sTANTON (CONT'D)
No I think he has got someone else to remind him he is only human. 
Ned and Molly are hugging each other
Helena
You know I would not mind the open sea..with you
sTANTON
(Very enthusiastically)
Really? You will? You know he's not that bad. A bit full of himself but a good 
Helen interrupts him by putting her finger over his mouth
hELANA
Richard I am going with you. Not with him.
sTANTON
Oh..right. Wow. Lets get at it then
Dr. Dee stands with Kelley behind him he says to Will
jOHN DEE
A trip abroad young man if you care to join us. We live in an age of exploration and many wonders are being uncovered. Some good and some (looking around him) not so good. Many are looking for and dying in their search for the true religion. Maybe its closer than they think.
Will laughs
JOHN DEE (CONT'D)
So can I tempt your enquiring mind Master Shakespeare.
WILL
No thank you Dr. Dee I am to be one of the Queens men. I think I fancy a safer time telling stories.
jOHN DEE
This one?
wILL
I fear this one would stretch the imagination just a little too far.

The actors all stand there looking bloody. Ned and Molly come over. Ned holds out his hand. Dr. John grasps it firmly

nED
Molly and I thank you Dr. Dee. It has been an honour to meet you and also you master Kelley. We all made a good army didn't we. I just thank God we are still alive

jOHN DEE
Thank God?.. I wonder if we are thanking the right spirit there?.
Dee looks at the tree and at Kelley who also clearly wonders about that one too and looks around at the swaying trees.
jOHN DEE (CONT'D)
Adieu Master Goodthrust. Mistress Molly. Keep Walsingham on his toes. I shall put in a good report to her majesty about what you did here.
mOLLY
Ask her to keep Drake off my back
John dee
Laughs. I shall make that request but I think Drake has his hands full already with the Spanish fleet.
mOLLY
Hmm Spanish treasure and no drake.
Dee shakes hands with them both. Kelley shakes Mollys hand and then Neds and walks ways Ned leans over to Molly
nED
scary man
gresham cooper
and us
nED
You have a choice my friends. You can stay here and dig some graves or you can do what you do best. You can follow Captain (looks at Molly) Joint Captain Goodthrust blindly into whatever the future brings on the high sea's 

Ned walks off with others following him
mOLLY
Ned its this way
Ned marches back towards Molly puts his arm around her waist.
nED
So Molly..will you
mOLLY
Will I what?
NED
will you marry me
As they walks off
mOLLY
You have got to be joking
EXT FOREST FROM ABOVE:NIGHT
All go there different ways stepping over the bloody carnage.
Leaving the tree guarding what was the doorway to Hell.

(THE END)