Alkonium Posted August 27, 2009 Share Posted August 27, 2009 This isn't so much a fic, as much as a WIP of the script for a musical I'm writing. All the songs are by Rush, and the story is based on their 2112 suite. 2112 A Science Fiction Musical by Alex G. Denby Music by Neil Peart, Alex Lifeson, and Geddy Lee Italics indicate sung dialogue, plain text indicates spoken dialogue. Bold underline indicates location, plain underline indicates song. All characters’ names are placeholders, and the names used will be chosen by their respective actors. Though The Protagonist is referred to as male, the character can be male or female. Starscape 2112 Overture (Project images of starfields during The Protagonist’s speech) The Protagonist (offstage): I lie awake, staring out at the bleakness of Megadon. City and sky become one, merging into a single plane, a vast sea of unbroken grey. The Twin Moons, just two pale orbs as they trace their way across the steely sky. I used to think I had a pretty good life here, just plugging into my machine for the day, then watching Templevision or reading a Temple Paper in the evening. My friend Jon always said it was nicer here than under the atmospheric domes of the Outer Planets. We have peace since 2062, when the surviving planets were banded together under the Red Star of the Solar Federation. The less fortunate gave us a few new moons. I believed what I was told, I thought it was a good life, I thought I was happy. Then I found something that changed it all… (during the Overture, project images of war in space, and on other planets, gradually showing more victories by one side, then project the Red Star of the Solar federation before fading into darkness) (Father Brown, Father Pratt, and Father Lee enter, lights come back on) Father Brown, Father Pratt, and Father Lee: And the meek shall inherit the Earth. The Temples of Syrinx Father Brown: We’ve taken care of everything The words you read The songs you sing The pictures that give pleasure To your eye Father Pratt: It’s one for all and all for one We work together Common sons Never need to wonder How or why Father Brown, Father Pratt, and Father Lee: We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx Our great computers Fill the hallowed halls We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx All the gifts of life Are held within our walls Father Lee: Look around this world we’ve made Equality Our stock in trade Come and join the Brotherhood Of Man Father Brown, Father Pratt, Father Lee: What a nice contented world Let the banners Be unfurled Hold the Red Star proudly High in hand We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx Our great computers Fill the hallowed halls We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx All the gifts of life Are held within our walls (lights fade) Waterfall Jon: I don’t know how you managed to talk me into coming out here with you. One of these times, we’re going to get caught. The Protagonist: You worry too much. (pauses, then points) I think I see something over there. (runs over to the other side of the stage, and pulls out a guitar. Confused, he begins to pluck the strings) Discovery The Protagonist: What can this strange device be? When I touch it, it gives forth a sound It’s got wires that vibrate, and give music What can this thing be, that I’ve found? Jon: See how it sings like a sad heart And joyously screams out its pain Chords that build high like a mountain Or notes that fall gently, like rain The Protagonist: I can’t wait to share this new wonder The people will all see its light Let them all make their own music The priests praise my name on this light The Streets of Megadon Jon: Do you really think the priests are going to take kindly to your little find? The Protagonist: I don’t see why they wouldn’t. I don’t think it would undermine their work. The Temple Presentation The Protagonist: I know it’s most unusual To come before you so But I’ve found an ancient miracle I thought that you should know Listen to my music And hear what it can do There’s something here as strong as life I know that it will reach you Father Brown: Yes we know It’s nothing new It’s just a waste of time We have no need for ancient ways Our world is doing fine Another toy That helped destroy The Elder Race of Man Forget about your silly whim It doesn’t fit the plan The Protagonist: I can’t believe you’re saying These things just can’t be true Our world could use this beauty Just think what we might do Listen to my music And hear what it can do There’s something here as strong as life I know that it will reach you Father Pratt: Don’t annoy us further We have our work to do Just think about the average What use have they for you? Another toy That helped destroy The Elder Race of Man Forget about your silly whim It doesn’t fit the plan Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tysyacha Posted August 27, 2009 Share Posted August 27, 2009 Wow! Having been an avid fan of Orwell's 1984 for years, this was honestly quite chilling. It makes me wonder if the High Priests are going to torture our guitar-toting protagonist in the name of "love". You had me hooked! Brilliant!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
machievelli Posted August 27, 2009 Share Posted August 27, 2009 read Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted August 27, 2009 Author Share Posted August 27, 2009 Well, that's literally all I've written so far, so the next part could be a while, but rest assured, after this, it starts to deviate from the plot of original 2112 suite a bit more. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Endorenna Posted August 27, 2009 Share Posted August 27, 2009 Very nice. I'm usually not crazy about stories where religion is the 'Evil' in the world, so I'll have to read the next chapter before giving my opinion. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted August 27, 2009 Author Share Posted August 27, 2009 A bit of a shorter update, but here it is: The Streets of Megadon (Jon and Lora are waiting outside for The Protagonist, while other citizens are walking in the background. The Protagonist enters stage right, guitar in hand, clearly looking upset) The Protagonist: You were right, Jon. They were not impressed. Lora: At least you still have it, which is surprising. I thought they'd incinerate it or something. The Protagonist: Now I understand your disdain for the priests, Jon. Jon: I realized long ago that this world isn’t bliss, it’s intellectual stagnation. (He takes the guitar, and begins to play it.) Far Cry Jon: Pariah dogs and wandering madmen Barking at strangers and speaking in tongues The ebb and flow of tidal fortune Electrical changes are charging up the dawn It’s a far cry from the world we thought we’d inherit It’s a far cry from the way we thought we’d share it You can almost feel the current flowing You can almost see the circuits blowing The Protagonist: One day I feel I’m on top of the world And the next, it’s falling in on me I can get back on, I can get back on One day I feel I’m ahead of the wheel And the next, it’s rolling over me I can get back on, I can get back on Lora: Whirlwind life of faith and betrayal Rise in anger, fall back and repeat Slow degrees on your dark horizon Full moon rising lays ever at your feet It’s a far cry from the world we thought we’d inherit It’s a far cry from the way we thought we’d share it You can almost feel the current flowing You can almost see the circuits blowing! The Protagonist: One day I feel I’m on top of the world And the next, it’s falling in on me I can get back on, I can get back on One day I feel I’m ahead of the wheel And the next, it’s rolling over me I can get back on, I can get back on All three, plus crowd: It’s a far cry from the world we thought we’d inherit It’s a far cry from the way we thought we’d share it You can almost feel the circle growing You can almost feel the planets glowing Jon: One day I feel I’m on top of the world And the next, it’s falling in on me I can get back on, I can get back on Lora: One day I feel I’m ahead of the wheel And the next, it’s rolling over me I can get back on, I can get back on The Protagonist: One day I fly through a crack in the sky And the next, it’s falling in on me I can get back on, I can get back on All three: I can get back on, I can get back on Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kado Sunrider Posted August 29, 2009 Share Posted August 29, 2009 Personally, I thought it sounded pretty cool, definitely an interesting read. What gave you the inspiration to rewrite the original? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted August 30, 2009 Author Share Posted August 30, 2009 Musicals like Across the Universe and Mamma Mia, my past experience singing and acting in musicals, and my being a big fan of Rush. Now, without further ado, here's more: The Protagonist’s Home Oracle: The Dream The Protagonist: I wandered home through silent streets And fell into a fitful sleep Escape to realms beyond the night Dream – can’t you show me the light? (remove props, project images of the Elder Race of Man) I stand atop a spiral stair An oracle confronts me there He leads me on, light years away Through astral nights, galactic days I see the work of gifted hands Grace this strange and wondrous land I see the hand of man arise With hungry mind and open eyes They left our planets long ago The Elder Race still learn and grow Their power grows with purpse strong To claim the home, where they belong Home to tear the Temple down Home to change- (cease projections, return props to stage) Soliloquy The Protagonist: The sleep is still in my eyes The dream is still in my head I heave a sigh, and sadly smile And lie awhile in bed I wish that it might come to pass Not fade like all my dreams Just think of what my life might be In a world like I have seen (lights fade) The Protagonist: It was at that moment I realized what humanity was capable of, what I was capable of. I decided, that with the help of Jon and Lora, I would bring about much-needed change to this cold and empty world. I didn’t how I would do, but I knew I had to find a way. The Streets of Megadon The Protagonist: I’ve seen what we’re capable of. Overthrowing the Priests seems like the only option now. I simply cannot let them continue to squander our potential. Lora: I’m with you, all the way, through thick and thin. I want change just as much as you do. Jon: This is a bad idea, but doing nothing is an even worse idea. Even if we fail, it’s better than living under their rule. (a crowd of people approaches them. A man named David steps forward) Something for Nothing David: What the hell are the three of you thinking? Rebellion? Overthrowing the Priests? You have nothing to gain. The Protagonist: We have everything to gain. David: We need them! We would lose our way if not for the Priests! The Protagonist: Then find it. Waiting for the winds of change To sweep the clouds away Waiting for the rainbow’s end To cast its gold your way Countless ways You pass the days Waiting for someone to call And turn your world around Looking for an answer To the questions you have found Looking for An open door You don’t get something for nothing You can’t have freedom for free You won’t get wise With the sleep still in your eyes No matter what your dreams might be What you own is your own kingdom What you do is your own glory What you love is your own power What you live is your own story In your head is the answer Let it guide you along Let your heart be the anchor And the beat of your own song Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Darth Avlectus Posted August 31, 2009 Share Posted August 31, 2009 Hmm. You know, I am vaguely familiar with the theme of high priests who rule and/or the sterile "perfect life". Unless I'm missing something... This is along those lines but different: the very first I've ever seen of inspiration by way of musical lyrics. I've encountered it previously: One story called The Giver... No high priests but in a similar tone it was about government rule the world over by mass consensus achieving "sameness" amongst the world's population. The giver breathes colors, spectrum, and ultimately realism of life back into the world that had consented to sameness like this story. It started with being a misfit. Another: Star Trek classic episode where Kirk saves Spock from becoming a regulator motor called "control"--not that I'm much a trekkie...meh. Basically it is a Utopia planet, and after Captain intervenes to save Spock from becoming the "control" of that planet's engine to run its society, the planet is forced to once again live under the full spectrum of life, instead of a painless and challengeless insipid existence. Odyssey:Legend of Nemesis, Island "Culn", where there is a band of elite priests overseeing a population of mass majority of invalids, simpletons, etc. to mine and work for them. They have their daily sacrifices into thier revered "eternal flame" and "guide" them with their religion. The ones of higher self awareness who see what is going on don't really like it. You the player must choose wisely how you're going to breathe life back into the island (if you do at all), though be warned it's tricky and it has a major cost either way. But in essence, you are eliminating the priests in some way. Which way is "best" depends on your point of view. MegaMan Legends series...Basically "Ancient Systems", as you discover are controlling and overseeing the world's population regrowth. Earth is mostly covered in water. You eventually get to the heart of it to find out why things are the way they are. Earth's activity has been regulated to ensure "perfect living" in the wake of ancient disaster from the previous race of mankind. I won't spoil it, but the gist is the "perfect life" is not as rich as the rediscovered "full spectrum" life. Alas, you MegaMan Trigger/Volnutt are the one to bring it. Keep going! Although I (think I) have the premise down, this looks to be a different story in its own rite! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted September 2, 2009 Author Share Posted September 2, 2009 (most of the group then joins The Protagonist, Jon, and Lora. David and a few others, however, remain) David: Perhaps you’re right, but we’ll see. (leaves) The Protagonist (prerecorded narration): Seeing those people join us made me understand how we could change things. Just as I had been inspired by the guitar, so were they. And I understood what it was that made the Priests reject it. It was fear. They knew all along that if people realized their potential, they wouldn’t be needed anymore. Lora: This may not be so hard after all. Jon: We’ve still got a long way ahead of us. One Little Victory Jon: A certain measure of innocence Willing to appear naïve A certain degree of imagination A measure of make-believe A certain degree of surrender To the forces of light and heat A shot of satisfaction In a willingness to risk defeat The Protagonist: Celebrate the moment As it turns into one more Another chance at victory Another chance to score Lora: The measure of the moment Is a difference of degree Just one little victory A spirit breaking free One little victory The greatest act can be One little victory Jon: A certain measure of righteousness A certain amount of force A certain degree of determination Daring on a different course A certain amount of resistance To the forces of light and love A certain measure tolerance A willingness to rise above All Three: One little victory One little victory One little victory One little victory The Protagonist: Celebrate the moment As it turns into one more Another chance at victory Another chance to score Lora: The measure of the moment Is a difference of degree Just one little victory A spirit breaking free The greatest act can be One little victory The greatest act can be One little victory All three: One little victory One little victory One little victory One little victory Just one little victory Just one little victory One little victory One little victory The Temple Father Pratt: We should have killed that citizen, or at least destroyed the instrument he was carrying. Father Lee: Rejecting his proposal seemed enough at the time. Father Brown: And now we begin to see the repercussions of our mistake. (The Starman is projected in gold in the background) This … perversion of the Red Star has been appearing all across the city, along with the word “Earthshine” Father Lee: Most likely rebels. (David enters the Temple, and bows before the Priests) David: You wished to see me, your Holiness? Father Pratt: Yes. We want you find this Earthshine movement, infiltrate it, tell us everything, and sabotage it. David: Anything for the Solar Federation. I shall not fail you. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tysyacha Posted September 3, 2009 Share Posted September 3, 2009 Keep it up! I am really enjoying this, and you're inspiring me to write my own musical! (I don't know if I'm going to write it, though--you just made the germ of an idea pop in my head.) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted September 7, 2009 Author Share Posted September 7, 2009 Waterfall (the members of Earthshine have gathered at the Waterfall, and Jon, Lora, and the Protagonist are addressing them) The Protagonist: The reasons I chose this place are twofold; it is too far outside the Wire for the Priests to find, and it is where I found the guitar, my inspiration. Jon: This may not be much, but we can change that, all of us. Lora: The Priests may have control, but we have two things they can never take from us: our hope, and our individuality! Earthshine Lora: On certain nights When the angles are right And the moon is A slender crescent Jon: It's circle shows In a ghostly glow Of earthly luminescence The Protagonist: Earthshine A beacon in the night I can raise my eyes To earthshine Crowd: Earthshine A jewel out of reach Form a dream to rise To earthshine Jon: Floating high In the evening sky I see my Faint reflection Lora: Pale facsimile Like what others see When they look In my direction The Protagonist: Earthshine A beacon in the night I can raise my eyes To earthshine Crowd: Earthshine Stretching out your hand Full of starlit diamonds Earthshine Lora: (looking right at the Protagonist) Reflected light To another's sight And the moon Tells a lover's story Jon: (Also looking at the Protagonist) My borrowed face And my third-hand grace Only reflect your glory The Protagonist: (clearly aware of the looks from both Jon and Lora) Earthshine Stretching out your hand I can raise my eyes To earthshine All three: Earthshine You're still out of reach Form a dream to rise To earthshine All three, plus crowd: Form a dream to rise To earthshine (The group leaves, including Lora, leaving just Jon and the Protagonist on stage) Jon: I’m sorry I doubted you before. The Protagonist: To be fair, I had no idea it would turn out like this. Closer to the Heart Jon: You’ve helped these people see their own potential, but I think they still see you as their leader. And the men who hold high places Must be the ones to start To mould a new reality Closer to the heart The blacksmith and the artist Reflect it in their art Forge their creativity Closer to the heart Philosophers and ploughmen Each must know his part To sow a new mentality Closer to the heart You can be the captain I will draw the chart Sailing into destiny Closer to the heart (they kiss, Jon leaves, and Lora returns to the stage) Lora: I always knew he was more than just your friend. The Protagonist: Lora, he… Lora: I think I know how he feels about you, because I feel that way too Tears Lora: All of the seasons And all of the days All of the reasons Why Ive felt this way So long So long Then lost in that feeling I looked in your eyes I noticed emotion And that you had cried For me I can see What would touch me deeper Tears that fall from eyes That only cry? Would it touch you deeper Than tears that fall from eyes That know why? A lifetime of questions Tears on your cheek I tasted the answers And my body was weak For you The truth (Lora kisses the Protagonist, and he kisses back) The Protagonist: Your feelings are not unrequited, but know I have feelings for Jon as well. I don’t know what will happen between us. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tysyacha Posted September 7, 2009 Share Posted September 7, 2009 Again, BRAVA!!! I think the best line out of all the songs was, "My borrowed face and my third-hand grace only reflect your glory." Three words, man: Stroke. Of. Genius. I think that's what many a follower comes to believe, before the "glorious one" assists him/her in realizing the light that shines within. I know I've certainly felt like that around some people. The tension--and romance--between the three characters is also very well done! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CommanderQ Posted September 7, 2009 Share Posted September 7, 2009 Excellent work, Alkonium! Sorry I haven't posted a response here as of yet:( Anyways, I really like the format of writing that you are using to write this fic, the music you're writing is showcased very well by this:D Post the next part soon! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted September 8, 2009 Author Share Posted September 8, 2009 And here's the last scene in Act I: The Temple (the Priests are gathered in the hall, and awaiting contact from David) Father Brown: Report, David. David: (offstage, possibly prerecorded, and edited to include minor static). It’s just as you feared, Father Brown. Earthshine seems to be a rebel movement, and they’re organizing. Fast. Father Brown: I see. Do you think they are a serious threat? David: Yes, my lord. They oppose you not simply with weapons, but with ideas. Father Brown: Then you must eliminate their leader as soon as possible. David: I will do what I can. Father Pratt: Do you think that it will be enough? Father Brown: No, Father Pratt, but there is little else that can be done. We cannot find them, and they grow in strength every day. Distant Early Warning Father Brown: An ill wind comes arising Across the cities of the plain There's no swimming in the heavy water No singing in the acid rain Red alert Red alert (remove props and backdrop, all exit, transition to starscape) Starscape (three spotlights turn on, revealing The Protagonist at centre stage, Lora at stage left, and Jon at stage right. Project starfields in the background) The Protagonist: It's so hard to stay together Passing through revolving doors We need someone to talk to And someone to sweep the floors Incomplete Incomplete (addressing Jon) The world weighs on my shoulders But what am I to do? You sometimes drive me crazy But I worry about you Jon: I know it makes no difference To what you're going through But I see the tip of the iceberg And I worry about you... The Protagonist: Cruising under your radar Watching from satellites Take a page from the red book Keep them in your sights Red alert Red alert Left and rights of passage Black and whites of youth Who can face the knowledge That the truth is not the truth? Obsolete Absolute (addressing Lora) The world weighs on my shoulders But what am I to do? You sometimes drive me crazy But I worry about you Lora: I know it makes no difference To what you're going through But I see the tip of the iceberg And I worry about you The Protagonist: (addressing both) The world weighs on my shoulders But what am I to do? You sometimes drive me crazy But I worry about you Jon and Lora: I know it makes no difference To what you're going through But I see the tip of the iceberg And I worry about you All three: Absalom Absalom Absalom INTERMISSION (play recordings of YYZ, Leave That Thing Alone, and Malignant Narcissism during intermission) P.S. The next update will include Tom Sawyer. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Astor Posted September 10, 2009 Share Posted September 10, 2009 A musical fiction? Very novel! I've no experience with musicals at all (aside from watching them), so I can't really comment on the technical parts, but I can comment on the other parts. I really liked it. Although there's not much dialogue between the songs, it's direct, and tells you everything you need to know outside of the songs. I'm not familiar with Rush, but I thought the songs fit very well in the way you've arranged them - they merge seamlessly with the dialogue. It's not too difficult to picture the scenes as you've described them, either. Can't wait to see the next Act! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JediMaster12 Posted September 10, 2009 Share Posted September 10, 2009 Well after the hiatus of unemployment and grad school, I am back if albeit on a limited scale. Overall I find it a very interesting concept. I have never written a musical yet I have played around with various songs from them and actually created a couple comedic things so I commend you on your ability to arrange the lyrics to suit the moment. As to story content, i find it an interesting plot though with no experience with the series Rush I cannot make a fair comparison. On the technical note, I noticed that with the little dialogue there is and the abundance of songs, I makes me wonder if your model is based upon the India/Bollywood style of musicals. I only know of one American made musical that employed that concept and it is a name long forgotten from international comm. If it is based upon Bollywood style I find it very well put together. As someone said before, the lyrics and dialogue seem to flow together. Very good job Alkonium. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tysyacha Posted September 11, 2009 Share Posted September 11, 2009 On a final note before Act II: This beats HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL(S) BY... A !##$$#ING 1,000 MILES!!!! (Sorry...Disney just flushed itself down the toilet. You? Far from it, my man!) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted September 11, 2009 Author Share Posted September 11, 2009 Ok, here's the start of Act Two: Act Two Waterfall Base (Lamneth) (Some time has passed. Earthshine is now much more organised, the rebels no longer wear the typical grey garb of the Solar Federation, and each is dressed differently. They’re gathered on one side of the stage) Tom Sawyer Rebels: A modern-day warrior Mean mean stride, Today’s Tom Sawyer Mean mean pride. (The Protagonist enters from the opposite side of the stage. He appears more confident than before, and is also dressed is his own style) The Protagonist: Though my mind is not for rent, Don’t put me down as arrogant. My reserve, a quiet defence, Riding out the day’s events. The river! (Jon and Lora enter, and stand on opposite sides of the protagonist) Jon and Lora: And what you say about his company Is what you say about society. Catch the mist, catch the myth Catch the mystery, catch the drift. All: The world is, the world is, Love and life are deep, Maybe as his eyes are wide. Rebels: Today’s Tom Sawyer, He gets high on you, And the space he invades He gets by on you. The Protagonist: No, my mind is not for rent To any God or government. Always hopeful, yet discontent, I know changes aren’t permanent, But change is! Jon and Lora: And what you say about his company Is what you say about society. Catch the witness, catch the wit, Catch the spirit, catch the spit. All: The world is, the world is, Love and life are deep, Maybe as his skies are wide. The Protagonist: Exit the warrior, Today’s Tom Sawyer, He gets high on you, And the energy you trade, He gets right on to the friction of the day. (The crowd disperses) Lora: We’ve certainly come a long way since you found that guitar. Jon: You’re right. Our numbers have grown tremendously in the past few months, and the Priests have yet to find this place. The Protagonist: We’ve gained so much, and there’s so much more out there. The Temple Father Brown: The information you have provided for us is indispensible. David: Thank you, Father Brown. Father Pratt: Earthshine will not stand a chance against us. Father Lee: However, its leader could escape, and he will be a threat to us, as long as he lives. When you return, kill him personally. David: As you command, Father Lee. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tysyacha Posted September 13, 2009 Share Posted September 13, 2009 UH to the OH!!! *giggle* I'm reminded a bit of Darth Vader et al. by the Priests & David. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted September 14, 2009 Author Share Posted September 14, 2009 David gets to redeem himself a little, but things are still going a bit downhill The Streets of Megadon (Shortly after leaving the Temple, David is having second thoughts about his loyalty to the Priests) David: He was right all along. Can I really bring myself to kill him? New World Man David: He's a rebel and a runner He's a signal turning green He's a restless young romantic Wants to run the big machine He's got a problem with his poisons But you know he'll find a cure He's cleaning up his systems To keep his nature pure Learning to match the beat of the Old World Man Learning to catch the heat of the Third World Man He's got to make his own mistakes And learn to mend the mess he makes He's old enough to know what's right But young enough not to choose it He's noble enough to win the world But weak enough to lose it He's a New World Man... He's a radio receiver Tuned to factories and farms He's a writer and arranger And a young boy bearing arms He's got a problem with his power With weapons on patrol He's got to walk a fine line And keep his self-control Trying to save the day for the Old World Man Trying to pave the way for the Third World Man He's not concerned with yesterday He knows constant change is here today He's noble enough to know what's right But weak enough not to choose it He's wise enough to win the world But fool enough to lose it He's a New World Man... David: Earthshine’s not the enemy here, the Solar Federation is. I’ve been such a fool. Waterfall Base (Lamneth) (The Protagonist is speaking to Lerxst, one of the rebels, when David enters) The Protagonist: Excellent work. The sooner we can hack into the Temple’s interplanetary communications, the better. Lerxst: I’ll see what we can do. (Leaves) David: I need to speak with you, now. The Protagonist: What is this about, David? David: I need to warn you. The Priests know about this place, and they’re going to attack. The Protagonist: How could they? And how do you know? David: I’ve been spying for them the whole time, but I’ve started to see things from your point of view. They think I’m killing you right now. The Protagonist: I’m not surprised that you’d be the spy, but you’ve made the right choice. You’re no longer their slave. Not everyone can make that choice. Freewill The Protagonist: There are those who think that life has nothing left to chance A host of holy horrors to direct our aimless dance A planet of play things We dance on the strings Of powers we cannot perceive 'The stars aren't aligned Or the gods are malign...' Blame is better to give than receive You can choose a ready guide in some celestial voice If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice You can choose from phantom fears and kindness that can kill I will choose a path that's clear I will choose freewill David: There are those who think That they were dealt a losing hand The cards were stacked against them They weren't born in Lotusland All preordained A prisoner in chains A victim of venomous fate Kicked in the face You can't pray for a place In heaven's unearthly estate You can choose a ready guide in some celestial voice If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice You can choose from phantom fears and kindness that can kill I will choose a path that's clear I will choose freewill David and The Protagonist: Each of us A cell of awareness Imperfect and incomplete Genetic blends With uncertain ends On a fortune hunt that's far too fleet You can choose a ready guide in some celestial voice If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice You can choose from phantom fears and kindness that can kill I will choose a path that's clear I will choose freewill! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted September 22, 2009 Author Share Posted September 22, 2009 (Jon and Lora enter) The Protagonist: We have to begin evacuations. The Priests are coming. David: Can’t we defend ourselves? We’ve got more than enough people to mount a defense. Lora: The Solar Federation controls the entire galaxy, I doubt we could even try to defend ourselves against that kind of power. Jon: She’s right. Our strength was in the element of surprise. If they know about us, then they’ve already won. (an explosion is heard offstage) Jon: Go! I’ll hold them off! The Protagonist: We’re not leaving without you! Jon: You need to get out of here. We’ll meet again. I don’t know how, but I’ll find you. (More explosions are heard, all leave except Jon. Lights fade as Warrior Priests swarm in around Jon.) Desert (Following their escape from the Waterfall, Lora has found out about David’s involvement with the Priests, and lashes out at him) Lora: I hope you’re proud of yourself! This is your fault! David: I’m sorry, I am so sorry. Lora: Sorry? We’ve lost everything because of you! The Protagonist: Enough! Making David feel even worse will get us nowhere. We need to come up with a plan. Lora: What are we supposed to do? We’ve lost Jon, and we’ve had no contact from anyone else who escaped. The Protagonist: We can rebuild, and we can fight back. We can’t just rush in though. Bravado The Protagonist: If we burn our wings Flying too close to the sun If the moment of glory Is over before it's begun If the dream is won Though everything is lost We will pay the price, But we will not count the cost David: When the dust has cleared And victory denied A summit too lofty River a little too wide If we keep our pride Though paradise is lost We will pay the price, But we will not count the cost The Protagonist and Lora (hand in hand): And if the music stops There's only the sound of the rain All the hope and glory All the sacrifice in vain [And] if love remains Though everything is lost We will pay the price, But we will not count the cost Starscape Dreamline The Protagonist: After that, we stayed on the move, avoiding detection by the Priests, but gaining support in every city we came to, and even on a number of the nearby planets. From there, our ideas would spread to the rest of the galaxy. Earthshine had been devastated by the Priests’ attack, but we were returning stronger than ever… (after that, project a wide variety of different landscape shots) David: He’s got a road map of Jupiter A radar fix on the stars All along the highway She’s got a liquid-crystal compass A picture book of the rivers Under the Sahara Lora: We travel in the time of the prophets On a desert highway straight to the heart of the sun Like lovers and heroes, and the restless part of everyone We’re only at home when were on the run On the run David: He’s got a star map of Hollywood A list of cheap motels All along the freeway She’s got a sister out in Vegas The promise of a decent job Far away from her hometown Lora: We travel on the road to redemption A highway out of yesterday -- that tomorrow will bring Like lovers and heroes, birds in the last days of spring We’re only at home when were on the wing On the wing The Protagonist: When we are young Wandering the face of the earth Wondering what our dreams might be worth Learning that were only immortal -- For a limited time Time is a gypsy caravan Steals away in the night To leave you stranded in dreamland Distance is a long-range filter Memory a flickering light Left behind in the heartland Lora: We travel in the dark of the new moon A starry highway traced on the map of the sky Like lovers and heroes, lonely as the eagles cry Were only at home when were on the fly On the fly All three: We travel on the road to adventure On a desert highway straight to the heart of the sun Like lovers and heroes, and the restless part of everyone Were only at home when were on the run On the run... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted September 28, 2009 Author Share Posted September 28, 2009 Forest Base (Willowdale) (The Protagonist, Lora and David have arrived at another Earthshine base) Lerxst: It’s good that you’ve arrived. We’ve got good news and bad news. The Protagonist: Let’s hear it. Lerxst: The good news is that our spies have discovered that Jon, along with a good number of others who we lost contact with after the Waterfall attack, are alive. The bad news is that they’re being held at a Solar Federation detention facility known as Red Sector A. David: (with a pained expression on his face) I’ve heard of it. “Death Camp” is a better description of the place. Lora: Then we have to get them out of there as soon as possible. Lerxst: It’s too heavily fortified, we’ll never make it! The Protagonist: We have to try. Mission The Protagonist: Hold your fire, Keep it burning bright Hold the flame 'til the dream ignites A spirit with a vision is a dream With a mission David: I hear their passionate music Read the words that touch my heart I gaze at their feverish pictures The secrets that set them apart Lerxst: When I feel the powerful visions Their fire has made alive I wish I had that instinct I wish I had that drive Lora: Spirits fly on dangerous missions Imaginations on fire Focused high on soaring ambitions Consumed in a single desire The Protagonist: In the grip of a nameless possession A slave to the drive of obsession A spirit with a vision is a dream With a mission. Lerxst: I watch their images flicker Bringing light to a lifeless screen I walk through their beautiful buildings And I wish I had their dreams The Protagonist: But dreams don't need to have motion To keep their spark alive Obsession has to have action Pride turns on the drive Lora: Spirits fly on dangerous missions Imaginations on fire Focused high on soaring ambitions Consumed in a single desire The Protagonist: In the grip of a nameless possession A slave to the drive of obsession A spirit with a vision is a dream With a mission. All: It's cold comfort To the ones without it To know how they struggled How they suffered about it If their lives were exotic and strange They would likely have gladly exchanged them For something a little more plain Maybe something a little more sane The Protagonist: We each pay a fabulous price For our visions of paradise But a spirit with a vision is a dream With a mission. All: A spirit with a vision is a dream Red Sector A Red Sector A (Jon and a group of prisoners are fighting off the guards on one side of the stage) Jon: All that we can do is just survive All that we can do to help ourselves is stay alive All that we can do is just survive All that we can do to help ourselves is stay alive Prisoners: Ragged lines of ragged grey Skeletons, they shuffle away Shouting guards and smoking guns Will cut down the unlucky ones Jon: I clutch the wire fence until my fingers bleed A wound that will not heal A heart that cannot feel Hoping that the horror will recede Hoping that tomorrow we’ll all be freed Sickness to insanity Prayer to profanity Days and weeks and months go by Don’t feel the hunger Too weak to cry (The Protagonist, Lora, David, and a group of rebels enter from the other side of the stage. For the rest of the song, they fight the guards, gradually winning and making their way across the stage) Dirk: I hear the sound of gunfire at the prison gate Are the liberators here? Do I hope or do I fear? For my father and my brother, it’s too late But I must help my mother stand up straight Jon: Are we the last ones left alive? Are we the only human beings to survive? Are we the last ones left alive? Are we the only human beings to survive? Dirk: I hear the sound of gunfire at the prison gate Are the liberators here? Do I hope or do I fear? For my father and my brother, it’s too late But I must help my mother stand up straight (All the guards lie dead or unconscious on the ground) Jon: Are we the last ones left alive? Are we the only human beings to survive? Are we the last ones left alive? Are we the only human beings to survive? (All Prisoners and Rebels exit stage left. After lights fade, guards exit.) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tysyacha Posted October 11, 2009 Share Posted October 11, 2009 I can't begin to tell you how awesome these new installments are! You are honestly helping me in my great struggle to learn chess. I've been incredibly discouraged lately, but reading these powerful songs of passion has brought a lift to my heart once again! I think the line that broke my heart the most was "I must help my mother stand up straight." WAAAHHHH! Stupid Red Sector A! You've inspired me so much, I've decided to write a song of my own (that, of course, won't be included in your musical, but I want to do it anyway. It's called "Quit", and it features me and the "Dark Side" as singers. Here goes... QUITInspired by Alkonium's "2112", even though this song has no tune Me This game is so confusing. What a quandary I'm in, 'Cause I just keep on losing Even though I want to win. I can't see where I'm going wrong. The pieces just don't fit, And all this leaves me wondering: should I quit? Dark Side So many times you've failed, my dear, Your head upon the pike. Many who suck at basketball Still want to "be like Mike". You know your chess is not that great, So why do you play it? Give up your foolish glory dreams and quit. Me If I give up this soon, what have I lost? Before I stop, I have to count the cost. The moment I sat at the board, My heart filled up with fire, This burning passion, and this fierce desire. Every time I play, I lose myself In giving it my all, and setting pride upon the shelf. You'd think I wouldn't fear to lose by now, But a tournament is coming up soon anyhow... Dark Side You can't play. Me I know it's hard... Dark Side There's no way. Me My rating's marred... Dark Side On GameKnot, have you seen your latest graph? If you entered the tourney, everyone would laugh! Me Giving up right now would feel like death, Like closing my lungs before taking my first breath. I know that I'll get better, given time, And with a lot of practice, I will hit my prime, So, off with you, O Dark Side! You're a git, Because when it comes to chess, I STILL WON'T QUIT! Thanks for writing these installments and waking me out of MY long slumber! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alkonium Posted October 12, 2009 Author Share Posted October 12, 2009 Ok, so here's the next installment: Forest Base (Willowdale) (The Protagonist, Lora, and David return with Jon, Dirk, and the other escaped prisoners) Lora: These people have been through a lot; at the very least they’re going to need serious medical attention. Lerxst: I’ll see what we can do. (She leads most of the escaped prisoners offstage, Jon remains, and group-hugs Lora and The Protagonist.) The Protagonist: I thought you had died! I didn’t think I’d ever see you again. Jon: They knew who I was, and they thought that with a little persuasion I could lead them to you. They tried everything, but they failed. Because of that, the past few months had been hell for me. Thank you, both of you for free us. I’m glad that ordeal is over. Time Stand Still Jon: I turn my back to the wind To catch my breath, Before I start off again Driven on, Without a moment to spend To pass an evening With a drink and a friend I let my skin get too thin Id like to pause, No matter what I pretend Like some pilgrim -- Who learns to transcend -- Learns to live As if each step was the end Lora: Time stand still Jon: Im not looking back But I want to look around me now Lora: Time stand still Jon: See more of the people And the places that surround me now The Protagonist: Time stand still Jon: Freeze this moment A little bit longer Make each sensation A little bit stronger Experience slips away... Experience slips away… Time stand still I turn my face to the sun Close my eyes, Let my defences down All those wounds That I cant get unwound I let my past go too fast No time to pause If I could slow it all down Like some captain, Whose ship runs aground I can wait until the tide Comes around Lora: Time stand still Jon: Im not looking back But I want to look around me now Lora: Time stand still Jon: See more of the people And the places that surround me now Freeze this moment A little bit longer Make each sensation A little bit stronger Make each impression A little bit stronger Freeze this motion A little bit longer The Protagonist: The innocence slips away... The innocence slips away... Time stand still Time stand still Jon: Im not looking back But I want to look around me now See more of the people And the places that surround me now Time stand still Summers going fast -- Nights growing colder Children growing up -- Old friends growing older Freeze this moment A little bit longer Make each sensation A little bit stronger The Protagonist, Jon, and Lora: Experience slips away... Experience slips away… The innocence slips away… Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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