by Douglas Spencer
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Television Proposal
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Interested Broadcasters contact Douglas Spencer,
dougspencervideo@gmail.com, (416) 246-0708
dougspencervideo@gmail.com, (416) 246-0708
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EXT. FOREST - DAY Dakota a young native runs through the forest. As he makes his way up a rock face that overlooks the island, he looks out over the landscape below. |
DAKOTA
(voiceover)
(voiceover)
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It is here that all the great chiefs, the bravest warriors, and leaders of my people were brought, to be buried on the high bluffs overlooking this island.
It is to this sacred island that many of my people came to receive their dreams and visions so it would guide their lives and the lives of their people into the future. There are still places of power and spiritual energy on this island, still holding the secrets of the past. It is here I have come to find my own dream, my own vision. But my story has its beginning in a much different place. |
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XT. CITY - MORNING
A city awakes to morning rush hour. A street of run down buildings slowly comes alive. |
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INT. BEDROOM - MORNING
Dakota suddenly awakens, dresses, and runs out the door. He's late for work again. |
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EXT. CITY STREET - MORNING
Dakota runs along the street and arrives at a small restaurant where he works as a dishwasher. |
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INT. RESTAURANT - MOMENTS LATER
Dakota enters the restaurant. His boss grabs him as he walks in. |
BOSS
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Where the fuck have you been?
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DAKOTA
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Sorry, my alarm didn't go off.
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BOSS
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Sorry? Tell that to all my goddam customers!
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The boss pushes Dakota towards the door and out on the street.
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BOSS
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Don't ever show your fucking face around here again! You're fired!
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DAKOTA
(loosing his temper)
(loosing his temper)
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Fuck you, you goddam asshole! Keep your fucking job!
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EXT: DOWNTOWN STREET - AFTERNOON
Dakota walks down the street and sees a black leather jacket from its hanger and slips it under his arm. He slowly moves towards the door and runs out. |
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EXT. DOWNTOWN STREET - AFTERNOON
Without looking back, Dakota walks quickly down the street. Looking over his shoulder, he sees that no one is following him. He begins to run and laugh. |
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INT. STRIP CLUB - EVENING
Dakota and two native friends are partying in a downtown strip club. Stoned and drunk, they start yelling obscenities at the dancer. |
DAKOTA
Show me your smelly pussy baby!
FRIENDS
(grabbing their crotches)
Such on this baby! Suck on this!
BOUNCER
(grabbing Dakota and his friends)
Get the fuck out of here you dirty
Indians!
Show me your smelly pussy baby!
FRIENDS
(grabbing their crotches)
Such on this baby! Suck on this!
BOUNCER
(grabbing Dakota and his friends)
Get the fuck out of here you dirty
Indians!
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The bouncer throws them out on to the street. Dakota and his friends pick themselves up and run into the night laughing.
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XT. PARKING LOT - NIGHT
Dakota and his friends break into a car and take it for a joyride. They speed down the main street but attract the attention of a police car and abandon the car. |
DAKOTA
(looking in his rearview
mirror)
Fucking cops!
(looking in his rearview
mirror)
Fucking cops!
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EXT. DOWNTOWN STREET - EARLY MORNING
Dakota wanders the streets and spots three hookers pandering for early morning clients. He knows one of them and approaches her. Her name is Linda. |
DAKOTA
How are things Linda?
LINDA
(glad to see him)
Hey, Dakota. Not bad. Not bad.
DAKOTA
Want to do some coke?
LINDA
(pausing for a moment to
think about it)
Sure why not?
How are things Linda?
LINDA
(glad to see him)
Hey, Dakota. Not bad. Not bad.
DAKOTA
Want to do some coke?
LINDA
(pausing for a moment to
think about it)
Sure why not?
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Dakota and Linda head back to her place.
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NT. LINDA'S APARTMENT - AFTERNOON
Dakota and Linda are snorting cocaine and listing to music. The make love and Linda falls asleep. Dakota leaves. |
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EXT. DOWNTOWN STREET - EVENING
Dakota spots a gang of three white youth he burnt on a recent drug deal and turns to run. They spot him and give chase. |
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EXT. PARKING LOT - MOMENTS LATER
The gang catch Dakota in a parking lot. He lies on the ground trying to protect himself from their blows and kicks. |
1ST GANG MEMBER
(yelling)
Kick him in the fucking balls!
2NG GANG MEMBER
(screaming)
Kill the skinny little cock sucker!
3RD GANG MEMBER
(yelling)
Dirty fucking red skin!
(yelling)
Kick him in the fucking balls!
2NG GANG MEMBER
(screaming)
Kill the skinny little cock sucker!
3RD GANG MEMBER
(yelling)
Dirty fucking red skin!
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The 1st gang member grabs Dakota by the hair and lifts his
head off the ground and spits in his face. |
1ST GANG MEMBER
(yelling)
If I ever see your fucking ugly
face again, I'll cut off your balls
and hang them from my belt like a
scalp! Do you understand that, you
fucking dirty Indian? Do you
understand that?
(yelling)
If I ever see your fucking ugly
face again, I'll cut off your balls
and hang them from my belt like a
scalp! Do you understand that, you
fucking dirty Indian? Do you
understand that?
DAKOTA
(in pain)
Yes. Yes. I understand. I
understand.
(in pain)
Yes. Yes. I understand. I
understand.
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The first gang member lets go of Dakota's hair and his head
falls to the ground. The gang vanish into the night leaving Dakota to deal with his pain. |
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EXT. BUSY STREET CORNER - NEXT DAY
Dakota is panhandling on a busy street corner. Passers-by ignore his request for money. After an hour he gives up in frustrations. |
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DAKOTA
Got a quarter? Got a quarter to
catch a bus?
Got a quarter? Got a quarter to
catch a bus?
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EXT. DOWNTOWN STREET - LATER
Dakota runs down the street and suddenly stops in front of a tall building and looks up. He pauses, lets out a loud war cry, and runs on. |
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EXT. INNER CITY PARKWAY - AFTERNOON
Dakota runs along the railroad tracks. He leaves the tracks and heads down a path into a growth of trees. There he finds a small campsite where an old native named Yellow-Hawk sits outside his tent. He looks up and sees the young man approaching. |
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DAKOTA
Maquitch!
YELLOW-HAWK
Maquitch!
DAKOTA
How are you doing?
YELLOW-HAWK
Not bad. Life can be hard
sometimes. But I try to look on the
brighter side of life. How are you
doing?
DAKOTA
Not so good.
YELLOW-HAWK
What's wrong?
DAKOTA
I feel empty. There's nothing here
for me. I don't know where I fit in
anymore.
YELLOW-HAWK
Maybe you should go home for a
while and see your family.
DAKOTA
Yeah. Maybe you're right.
YELLOW-HAWK
Go home. Just for awhile. See
your family and friends again.
DAKOTA
I think I will. Thanks.
Maquitch!
YELLOW-HAWK
Maquitch!
DAKOTA
How are you doing?
YELLOW-HAWK
Not bad. Life can be hard
sometimes. But I try to look on the
brighter side of life. How are you
doing?
DAKOTA
Not so good.
YELLOW-HAWK
What's wrong?
DAKOTA
I feel empty. There's nothing here
for me. I don't know where I fit in
anymore.
YELLOW-HAWK
Maybe you should go home for a
while and see your family.
DAKOTA
Yeah. Maybe you're right.
YELLOW-HAWK
Go home. Just for awhile. See
your family and friends again.
DAKOTA
I think I will. Thanks.
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Dakota leaves the campsite and Yellow-Hawk waves goodbye.
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EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
Dakota on a motorcycle is heading home to his reservation. |
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EXT. RESERVATION - DAY
The small native town is waking up to a typical weekday morning. Traffic is beginning on the main street. Children are walking to school. |
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EXT. RESERVATION - MOMENTS LATER
Dakota rides into town on his motorcycle. He notices a flashing police car in his rearview mirror. The police car pulls over and a police officer approaches him. |
POLICE OFFICER
Afternoon. Can I see your driver's
license, ownership and insurance,
please?
DAKOTA
I've only got a driver's license on
me.
POLICE OFFICER
You're being pulled over because
you aren't wearing a helmet. I
hope you realize that.
DAKOTA
Yes sir.
POLICE OFFICER
(looking at his license)
You don't have a proper license.
DAKOTA
I don't?
POLICE OFFICER
Today, we're giving out warnings.
I want you to park this bike. Next
time I see you on this bike, without
a helmet or a proper license, I
will give you a ticket. Do you
undertand?
DAKTOA
Yes sir.
POLICE OFFICER
Have a nice day.
DAKOTA
(under his breath)
Asshole.
Afternoon. Can I see your driver's
license, ownership and insurance,
please?
DAKOTA
I've only got a driver's license on
me.
POLICE OFFICER
You're being pulled over because
you aren't wearing a helmet. I
hope you realize that.
DAKOTA
Yes sir.
POLICE OFFICER
(looking at his license)
You don't have a proper license.
DAKOTA
I don't?
POLICE OFFICER
Today, we're giving out warnings.
I want you to park this bike. Next
time I see you on this bike, without
a helmet or a proper license, I
will give you a ticket. Do you
undertand?
DAKTOA
Yes sir.
POLICE OFFICER
Have a nice day.
DAKOTA
(under his breath)
Asshole.
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Dakota waits until the police officer drives away before he turns on the bike and drives away ignoring that the officer's
instructions. |
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EXT. FATHER'S HOUSE - LATE AFTERNOON
Dakota arrives at this house on his motorcycle. The yard is littered with old car parts. Dakota approaches the door and is met by his father. |
DAKOTA
I wondered if you'd be home.
DAKOTA'S FATHER
(sarcastically)
You did, did you. I bet you
thought I'd be down at Nelly's
getting half pissed.
DAKOTA
No. No. I just didn't expect you
to be around. How's it going?
DAKOTA'S FATHER
How's it going? How do you think
it's going?
DAKOTA
Look, I didn't come down here to
argue with you. I know things
between us haven't been the
greatest but...
DAKOTA'S FATHER
How would you feel if your only son
did nothing but steal cars and
chase pussy? You're nothing but a
fucking loser.
DAKOTA
What is so wonderful about your
life? What in fuck have you ever
done that so god dam important?
I wondered if you'd be home.
DAKOTA'S FATHER
(sarcastically)
You did, did you. I bet you
thought I'd be down at Nelly's
getting half pissed.
DAKOTA
No. No. I just didn't expect you
to be around. How's it going?
DAKOTA'S FATHER
How's it going? How do you think
it's going?
DAKOTA
Look, I didn't come down here to
argue with you. I know things
between us haven't been the
greatest but...
DAKOTA'S FATHER
How would you feel if your only son
did nothing but steal cars and
chase pussy? You're nothing but a
fucking loser.
DAKOTA
What is so wonderful about your
life? What in fuck have you ever
done that so god dam important?
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Dakota and his father get locked in a heated argument. Dakota walks away
and picks up his bike and drives off as his father yells obscenities. |
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EXT. EX-GIRLFRIENDS'S HOUSE - LATE AFTERNOON
Dakota approaches the door. His ex-girlfriend greets him and lets him in. |
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DAKOTA
I just wanted to drop by to say that I was sorry for taking off like I did. EX-GIRLFRIEND You've being running all your life Dakota. There's no point in changing now. DAKOTA How's the baby? EX-GIRLFRIEND The baby's fine. They found a good home for her. DAKOTA Do you ever see her? EX-GIRLFRIEND They say it's not a good idea to see your baby after the adoption. I think about her a lot though. DAKOTA What's her name? EX-GIRLFRIEND I named her Rainbow but the white people call her Sheila. DAKOTA (awkwardly) Well...I just thought I'd drop by and say hello. If I can do anything to help you please le me know. |
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EXT. POOL HALL - EVENING
Dakota gets off his bike and walks into the pool hall to see if any of his old friends are around. As he walks in he notices a group of buddies playing pool. Recognizing a few of them, he approaches the pool table. |
DAKOTA
Hi guys. How's it going?
1ST FRIEND
(happy to see him)
Dakota! What brings you back to
town? The big city getting to be
too much for you to handle?
DAKOTA
Don't worry, I'm doing okay. Have
you seen Ricky around since he got
out?
2ND FRIEND
Yeh, he's around. He doesn't go
out much though. His wife likes
him close to home.
3RD FRIEND
Yeh, his wife's got him pretty well
under her thumb.
1ST FRIEND
(to Dakota)
I hear you lost your job again and
that you're back on the street.
DAKOTA
That's fucking bullshit man. Things
for me are starting to happen. I'm
just waiting for the right
opportunity.
DAKOTA
Well, I'll probagbly see you guys
around.
Hi guys. How's it going?
1ST FRIEND
(happy to see him)
Dakota! What brings you back to
town? The big city getting to be
too much for you to handle?
DAKOTA
Don't worry, I'm doing okay. Have
you seen Ricky around since he got
out?
2ND FRIEND
Yeh, he's around. He doesn't go
out much though. His wife likes
him close to home.
3RD FRIEND
Yeh, his wife's got him pretty well
under her thumb.
1ST FRIEND
(to Dakota)
I hear you lost your job again and
that you're back on the street.
DAKOTA
That's fucking bullshit man. Things
for me are starting to happen. I'm
just waiting for the right
opportunity.
DAKOTA
Well, I'll probagbly see you guys
around.
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EXT. NELLY'S BAR - NIGHT
The bar is full of locals dancing, drinking and celebrating the week's end. A few old friends standing at the bar notice Dakota as he walks in. He approaches them and shakes hands. |
1ST BAR-FRIEND
Hey Dakota, so long no see. How's
tricks?
DAKOTA
Great. Great.
2ND BAR-FRIEND
Did you hear they sent Jamie's
sister to the looney bin?
DAKOTA
No, what happened?
1ST BAR-FRIEND
She freaked out on mescaline.
Completely freaked out. Had to
call 911 and rush her to the
fucking hospital.
DAKOTA
Do you think she'll be okay?
2ND BAR-FRIEND
Who the fuck knows? Do you think
any of us will ever be okay?
Hey Dakota, so long no see. How's
tricks?
DAKOTA
Great. Great.
2ND BAR-FRIEND
Did you hear they sent Jamie's
sister to the looney bin?
DAKOTA
No, what happened?
1ST BAR-FRIEND
She freaked out on mescaline.
Completely freaked out. Had to
call 911 and rush her to the
fucking hospital.
DAKOTA
Do you think she'll be okay?
2ND BAR-FRIEND
Who the fuck knows? Do you think
any of us will ever be okay?
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Suddenly, the groups's attention is diverted by the arrival of a local bully named Jason. Accompanied by two friends, he walks to the bar and addresses Dakota.
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JASON
What's the concrete Indian doing
back on the rez? Looking for some
stray pussy?
What's the concrete Indian doing
back on the rez? Looking for some
stray pussy?
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The crowd looks at Dakota awaiting his reaction. Wishing to avoid any confrontation, Dakota ignores Jason's comment.
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JASON
Got nothing to say, big man?
DAKOTA
(diplomatically)
Look Jason, I really don't want any
trouble. I'm just visiting for a
few days to see a few old friends,
that's all.
JASON
You'll remember that we still have
some unfinished business to take
care of. Unless you're too much of
a coward to face the music.
DAKOTA
This is neither the time or the
place to deal with this Jason.
JASON
(lightly pushing Dakota
back)
Always running away from things,
right Dakota? Just like your
fucking old man. No fucking guts.
DAKOTA
I don't want any trouble Jason.
Back off.
JASON
Just like your fucking mother --
the town drunk. Couldn't face a
god dam thing so she blow her
fucking brains out.
Got nothing to say, big man?
DAKOTA
(diplomatically)
Look Jason, I really don't want any
trouble. I'm just visiting for a
few days to see a few old friends,
that's all.
JASON
You'll remember that we still have
some unfinished business to take
care of. Unless you're too much of
a coward to face the music.
DAKOTA
This is neither the time or the
place to deal with this Jason.
JASON
(lightly pushing Dakota
back)
Always running away from things,
right Dakota? Just like your
fucking old man. No fucking guts.
DAKOTA
I don't want any trouble Jason.
Back off.
JASON
Just like your fucking mother --
the town drunk. Couldn't face a
god dam thing so she blow her
fucking brains out.
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Dakota looses his temper and punches Jason in the face. Jason falls into a table and picks himself up. Wiping blood
from his mouth, Jason smiles and lunges at Dakota. Soon the bar erupts into a fight. The police arrive and throw Dakota into the police car. |
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INT. POLICE STATION - LATER
Dakota's bar-friends arrive to pay his bail. They decide to leave him in jail overnight. |
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EXT. POLICE STATION - MORNING
Dakota leaves the police station on foot. |
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EXT. GRAVEYARD - LATER
Dakota walks into the graveyard towards his grandfather's grave stone. He stops at the grave stone and sits down. |
DAKOTA
(talking to his grandfather's gravestone)
I'm here today because I need your
help. I don't know my language. I
don't know my four colours. I
don't know what clan I belong.
These are the things I want to
know. We are the warriors of this
village. We pass on the eagle
feather...
(talking to his grandfather's gravestone)
I'm here today because I need your
help. I don't know my language. I
don't know my four colours. I
don't know what clan I belong.
These are the things I want to
know. We are the warriors of this
village. We pass on the eagle
feather...
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EXT. BEACH - LATE AFTERNOON
Dakota walks along the beach. He finds an eagle feather and seven stones. He holds up tobacco to thank the creator. He runs from the beach slowly removing his outer clothing. |
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EXT. FOREST - LATE AFTERNOON
Wearing only briefs and moccasins, Dakota runs through the forest. He runs out on to a rock outcrop and surveys the landscape below the leaves. |
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EXT. FOREST - EVENING
Dakota enters a cave and finds a medicine bundle. He carefully examines it contents and wraps it up and takes it with him. |
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EXT. FOREST - DAY
Dakota as been fasting for several days. He has been having visions of a long ago past. A past where he lives much like his ancestors. He stays alive by eating berries and sleeping in a lean-to he has constructed from fallen branches. |
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EXT. FOREST - LATE AFTERNOON
Dakota discovers a tent in the middle of the forest. He cautiously approaches it and enters inside. Suddenly the tent begins to shake violently and we hear the sound of rattles. |
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INT. INSIDE THE TENT - LATER
Dakota holds his head as the tent shakes violently around him. Suddenly it stops. |
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EXT. OUTSIDE THE TENT - MOMENTS LATER
Dakota slowly exists the tent. Fall has suddenly changed to winter. He runs off. |
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EXT. FOREST - LATER
Dakota has barely managed to survive the winter. He looks ragged and thin. He has covered himself with a primitive bark coat to help protect himself from the cold. It begins to snow heavily. In the distance, he sees the outline of a strange village. Attempting to protect himself from the storm, he slowly makes his way towards the entrance. He doesn't make it. He collapses in the snow. |
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EXT. OLD VILLAGE - WINTER DAY
A village elder named Eagle Feather, dressed in traditional native apparel, approaches Dakota as he lies unconscious in the snow. He slowly picks up and carries Dakota into the village enclosure. The encampment is a traditional native village of the sixteenth century. Eagle Feather takes Dakota inside a longhouse. |
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EXT. LONGHOUSE - LATER
Eagle Feather feeds Dakota a warm liquid next to a a fire. |
EAGLE FEATHER
(in English)
Your journey my son has been long
and hard. I have been expecting
you.
(in English)
Your journey my son has been long
and hard. I have been expecting
you.
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EXT. TRADITIONAL VILLAGE - DAY
The small traditional village is waking up to a typical weekday morning. Women are dong morning chores. Children play in the snow. Men repair their hunting equipment. |
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INT. COMMUNITY LONGHOUSE - DAY
Dakota slowly gains consciousness unaware of where he is. He looks around at the contents of the longhouse trying to grasp reality. He passes out. |
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EXT. TRADITIONAL VILLAGE - AFTERNOON
A hunting party enters the village and are warmly greeted by their families. There will be a dance tonight to celebrate their return and the success of the hunt. |
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INT. EAGLE FEATHER'S LONGHOUSE - DAY
Eagle Feather sits in a deep trance by the fire. He opens his eyes, as his son Black Elk enters. |
EAGLE FEATHER
(in native language)
A stranger has come.
BLACK ELK
A stranger?
EAGLE FEATHER
The stranger from my dream.
BLACK ELK
Why concern yourself with this now
father. We have returned from the
hunt with much game. It is now
time to celebrate.
EAGLE FEATHER
We have little time left for
celebration my son. The coming of
this stranger marks the beginning
of a great change. We must prepare
ourselves.
BLACK ELK
Now is not the time for worry my
father. Now is the time for
celebration.
EAGLE FEATHER
Very well my son. Let us then
celebrate while we can.
(in native language)
A stranger has come.
BLACK ELK
A stranger?
EAGLE FEATHER
The stranger from my dream.
BLACK ELK
Why concern yourself with this now
father. We have returned from the
hunt with much game. It is now
time to celebrate.
EAGLE FEATHER
We have little time left for
celebration my son. The coming of
this stranger marks the beginning
of a great change. We must prepare
ourselves.
BLACK ELK
Now is not the time for worry my
father. Now is the time for
celebration.
EAGLE FEATHER
Very well my son. Let us then
celebrate while we can.
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DISSOLVE TO:
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EXT. TRADITIONAL VILLAGE - NIGHT
The entire village celebrates with food, dancing, and music around an enormous fire. |
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INT. COMMUNITY LONGHOUSE - LATER
The noise from the festivities awakes Dakota. He slowly gets up and makes his way to the doorway and looks out in amazement at the celebrations. |
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EXT. VILLAGE - DAY
The village wakes up to another morning -- women do morning chores; children play in the snow; and men talk in a circle and share hunting stories. Suddenly, one native looks up to see Dakota leaving the longhouse. The villagers are generally startled by his appearance. A small group of hunters grab their weapons and swiftly surround Dakota. Women and children run way screaming. |
1ST HUNTER
(in native language)
Get down! Get down!
Dakota
(in English)
Okay! Okay!
2ND HUNTER
Get down! Get down!
DAKOTA
Take it easy man!
(in native language)
Get down! Get down!
Dakota
(in English)
Okay! Okay!
2ND HUNTER
Get down! Get down!
DAKOTA
Take it easy man!
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Drawn by the general commotion, Eagle Feather rushes in and holds back the hunters.
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EAGLE FEATHER
(in native language)
Leave him alone! He's okay!
1ST HUNTER
Who is he?
EAGLE FEATHER
A friend! A friend!
(in native language)
Leave him alone! He's okay!
1ST HUNTER
Who is he?
EAGLE FEATHER
A friend! A friend!
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The hunters slowly back off. Eagle Feather takes Dakota back inside the longhouse telling him to stay there.
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INT. LONGHOUSE - NIGHT
The council of elders has gathered to discuss Dakota's future. |
1ST ELDER
(in native language)
We have gathered to discuss the
future of this stranger who has
come into our village. What is
your counsel?
2ND ELDER
This stranger has no value to us.
Why should he gbe permitted to stay?
He seems to have few skillls. He
does not even speak our language.
3RD ELDER
I agree. He will only be a burden
to us during difficult times.
EAGLE FEATHER
(interrupting)
I caution the council not to make a
hasty decision in this matter. I
believe that in time the coming of
this stranger will provbe to be to
our advantage.
2ND ELDER
Why do you say this, Eagle Feather?
EAGLE FEATHER
In my life, I have followed the
sacred paths of our people and
believe that this stranger was sent
to us with a special purpose.
2ND ELDER
What special purpose?
EAGLE FEATHER
i'm not certain but recently I had
a deram and in that dream there
appeared a stranger. A stranger
much like this one.
1ST ELDER
How does the council vote?
2ND ELDER
Perhaps, we have been hasty in our
thoughts. I vote that we follow
Eagle Feather's advice and allow
the stranger to stay for three new
moons.
1ST ELDER
Are we all in agreement?
ELDERS
(in unison)
Yes we are in agreement.
1ST ELDER
The council has spoken.
(in native language)
We have gathered to discuss the
future of this stranger who has
come into our village. What is
your counsel?
2ND ELDER
This stranger has no value to us.
Why should he gbe permitted to stay?
He seems to have few skillls. He
does not even speak our language.
3RD ELDER
I agree. He will only be a burden
to us during difficult times.
EAGLE FEATHER
(interrupting)
I caution the council not to make a
hasty decision in this matter. I
believe that in time the coming of
this stranger will provbe to be to
our advantage.
2ND ELDER
Why do you say this, Eagle Feather?
EAGLE FEATHER
In my life, I have followed the
sacred paths of our people and
believe that this stranger was sent
to us with a special purpose.
2ND ELDER
What special purpose?
EAGLE FEATHER
i'm not certain but recently I had
a deram and in that dream there
appeared a stranger. A stranger
much like this one.
1ST ELDER
How does the council vote?
2ND ELDER
Perhaps, we have been hasty in our
thoughts. I vote that we follow
Eagle Feather's advice and allow
the stranger to stay for three new
moons.
1ST ELDER
Are we all in agreement?
ELDERS
(in unison)
Yes we are in agreement.
1ST ELDER
The council has spoken.
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
|
EXT. VILLAGE - MORNING
Dakota sits outside watching little boys at play. They are shooting tiny arrows with tiny bows at a makeshift target. |
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
|
EXT. FOREST NEAR VILLAGE - AFTERNOON
Eagle Feather teaches Dakota the basic of the bow and arrow |
EAGLE FEATHER
(gently moving Dakota)
Stand with your body at right angle
to the target.
DAKOTA
(holding the bow)
Like this?
EAGLE FEATHER
Hold the bow in your left hand.
Pull the string using your first
three fingers with the arrow
between your first and second
finger.
(gently moving Dakota)
Stand with your body at right angle
to the target.
DAKOTA
(holding the bow)
Like this?
EAGLE FEATHER
Hold the bow in your left hand.
Pull the string using your first
three fingers with the arrow
between your first and second
finger.
|
Dakota releases the arrow. It misses the target.
|
EAGLE FEATHER
(smiling)
Tale time to aim at the target
before releasing the arrow. Try
again.
(smiling)
Tale time to aim at the target
before releasing the arrow. Try
again.
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
|
EXT. FOREST - DAY
As they walk through the forest, Eagle Feather pints out various plants and animals and their native names. |
EAGLE FEATHER
(holding a plant)
We call this plant Big Bluestem.
It is used to cure stomach pain.
(holding a plant)
We call this plant Big Bluestem.
It is used to cure stomach pain.
|
Dakota nods his understanding. They continue their walk.
|
EAGLE FEATHER
(pointing at another
plant)
This we call Beebalm. It is taken
to cure coughs and colds.
(pointing at another
plant)
This we call Beebalm. It is taken
to cure coughs and colds.
|
Dakota nods his understanding.
|
EAGLE FEATHER
(pointing at another
plant)
This we call Kituku manikto. It is
used to cure pain in the groin.
(pointing at another
plant)
This we call Kituku manikto. It is
used to cure pain in the groin.
|
Eagle Feather and Dakota break up in laughter.
|
EAGLE FEATHER
Some of our medicine-men do not
need to gather or prepare medicine.
They cover an empty birch bark dish
with a clean deer hide or cloth and
when called to look after a sick
person they play their sacred
medicine drum and place the dish
outside. After the medicine song
is done, they bring the dish inside
and in it are small bundles of
sacred medicine placed there by the
medicine serpent.
It is our belief that the great
thunderbird in a medicine dream
gives power to the dreamer to
prepare medicine.
Some of our medicine-men do not
need to gather or prepare medicine.
They cover an empty birch bark dish
with a clean deer hide or cloth and
when called to look after a sick
person they play their sacred
medicine drum and place the dish
outside. After the medicine song
is done, they bring the dish inside
and in it are small bundles of
sacred medicine placed there by the
medicine serpent.
It is our belief that the great
thunderbird in a medicine dream
gives power to the dreamer to
prepare medicine.
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
|
EXT. FOREST -EVENING
Eagle Feather and Dakota walk to a lookout to watch the sunset. |
EAGLE FEATHER
(pointing)
We believe the earth to be our
mother and that we are children of
the earth. The sun is the sister
of the world, the moon is the
brother.
(pointing)
We believe the earth to be our
mother and that we are children of
the earth. The sun is the sister
of the world, the moon is the
brother.
|
The sun sets.
|
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
|
EX. SWEAT LODGE -DAY
Eagle Feather leads Dakota to a sweat lodge made out of saplings and covered with hide or canvas, with floor cover of cedar branches. |
EAGLE FEATHER
We use this steam house to cure
certain sicknesses. Red-hot stones
are placed inside and water is
poured on them to give steam.
Sweet-smelling herbs are burnt
which cleans a man's body and soul.
DAKOTA
Why do you do this?
EAGLE FEATHERS
It is believed that after an Indian
purified himself the spirits came
more easily in medicine dreams and
he had a better chance to speak to
the Great Spirit.
We use this steam house to cure
certain sicknesses. Red-hot stones
are placed inside and water is
poured on them to give steam.
Sweet-smelling herbs are burnt
which cleans a man's body and soul.
DAKOTA
Why do you do this?
EAGLE FEATHERS
It is believed that after an Indian
purified himself the spirits came
more easily in medicine dreams and
he had a better chance to speak to
the Great Spirit.
|
Eagle Feather and Dakota enter the seat lodge. Eagle Feather takes a small stick and places sweet-smelling herbs
on the stones and pours water on them. |
EAGLE FEATHER
Oh stones for centuries you have
been hot and dry, now I place water
upon you. Help me to speak better
to my Goid and the spirits.
Oh stones for centuries you have
been hot and dry, now I place water
upon you. Help me to speak better
to my Goid and the spirits.
|
Eagle Feather starts pounding on the rocks and chanting sacred songs.
|
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
EX. LAKE - DAY
Eagle Feather leads Dakota to a lake where rock paintings are found -- sacred signs on the face of cliffs.
Eagle Feather leads Dakota to a lake where rock paintings are found -- sacred signs on the face of cliffs.
DAKOTA
How did these signs get here?
EAGLE FEATHER
i was told by my grandfather that
the sacred markings were put there
by the power of the Indian who made
them. From his fingers sprang out
red matter always without fading.
DAKOTA
What do they mean?
EAGLE FEATHER
It is believed by my people that
these rock paintings were sacred
signs.
How did these signs get here?
EAGLE FEATHER
i was told by my grandfather that
the sacred markings were put there
by the power of the Indian who made
them. From his fingers sprang out
red matter always without fading.
DAKOTA
What do they mean?
EAGLE FEATHER
It is believed by my people that
these rock paintings were sacred
signs.
|
DISSOLVED TO:
|
INT. LONGHOUSE - NIGHT
Dakota is invited to join the tribe's secret society. As he has no family e is not required to pay a great quantity of goods as was the custom. He however has to pass a test.
Dakota is invited to join the tribe's secret society. As he has no family e is not required to pay a great quantity of goods as was the custom. He however has to pass a test.
1ST ELDER
Before you on this table are pots
full of partly cooked dog meat and
broth. To pass the test you are
required to eat6 great amounts of
dog soup and meat with no ill
effects.
Before you on this table are pots
full of partly cooked dog meat and
broth. To pass the test you are
required to eat6 great amounts of
dog soup and meat with no ill
effects.
Dakota slowly eats from the table. He knows that he had to eat without throwing up. With great control he manages to pass the test.
Live snakes are brought into the ceremony and their tails are cut off and handed to Dakota.
Live snakes are brought into the ceremony and their tails are cut off and handed to Dakota.
2ND ELDER
To pass the test you are required
to swallow six tails with no ill
effects.
To pass the test you are required
to swallow six tails with no ill
effects.
Dakota slowly downed the six tails without throwing up.
1ST ELDER
(handing him a medicine bag)
Take this medicine bag and point it
at anyone here.
(handing him a medicine bag)
Take this medicine bag and point it
at anyone here.
Dakota points the medicine bag at an elder. Out of the bag shoots forth magical powers which knock the elder to the ground. The elder begins spitting blood and dying from the effects of the powerful medicine bag, but is revived again as if nothing has happened.
EAGLE FEATHER
Our people believed there is one
God, Gitchi Manitou, who is their
only God. We believe that there
are six layers of heaven. One to
four is reserved for all the
respected tribes of the Indian
people. In all four layers there
are Indian guardians who wear
scarlet clothing with pointed hoods
to guard these heavens set aside
for Indian people. The fifth layer
is reserved for white people and
the sixth layer is for the Great
Spirit alone.
We have medicine dreams about all
these layers excewpt the sixth
layer. Each Indian goes to one of
these layers according to the way
he behaves on earth. Everyone goes
to heaven no matter what he did.
God is good and there is no such
belief as hell. God, the giver of
life, is all-good in every way and
we cannot believe he would make the
place called hell.
I have given you some idea of our
beliefs. Even if these do not
sound convincing, at least I can
say we have good imaginations. We
believe as well in the
reincarnation of a dead person,
whereby his soul lives on in
another life among his own people.
I have also heard that the soul
could return by its own power if it
wants to.
Our people believed there is one
God, Gitchi Manitou, who is their
only God. We believe that there
are six layers of heaven. One to
four is reserved for all the
respected tribes of the Indian
people. In all four layers there
are Indian guardians who wear
scarlet clothing with pointed hoods
to guard these heavens set aside
for Indian people. The fifth layer
is reserved for white people and
the sixth layer is for the Great
Spirit alone.
We have medicine dreams about all
these layers excewpt the sixth
layer. Each Indian goes to one of
these layers according to the way
he behaves on earth. Everyone goes
to heaven no matter what he did.
God is good and there is no such
belief as hell. God, the giver of
life, is all-good in every way and
we cannot believe he would make the
place called hell.
I have given you some idea of our
beliefs. Even if these do not
sound convincing, at least I can
say we have good imaginations. We
believe as well in the
reincarnation of a dead person,
whereby his soul lives on in
another life among his own people.
I have also heard that the soul
could return by its own power if it
wants to.
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
EXT. LONGHOUSE - MORNING
Eagle Feather relates his dream to Dakota.
Eagle Feather relates his dream to Dakota.
EAGLE FEATHER
Last night I dreamt that one day
another race of people will appear
in our midst, and will claim our
land as his own. They will try to
change our patterns of life. They
will have a sweet tongue, a firjed
tongue, like a snake, and many good
things which we will be tempted.
They will use force in an attempt
to trap us into using weapons, but
we mus not fall for this trick.
For then we will be conquered and
brought to our knees, from which we
might not be able to rise.
Last night I dreamt that one day
another race of people will appear
in our midst, and will claim our
land as his own. They will try to
change our patterns of life. They
will have a sweet tongue, a firjed
tongue, like a snake, and many good
things which we will be tempted.
They will use force in an attempt
to trap us into using weapons, but
we mus not fall for this trick.
For then we will be conquered and
brought to our knees, from which we
might not be able to rise.
Eagle Feather stops and looks sadly into Dakota's eyes.
EAGLE FEATHER
Do you know of this Dakota?>
DAKOTA
Yes father. You must be aware of
the signs and omens which will come
about to give your courage and
strength to stand on your beliefs.
Blood will flow. Your hair and our
clothing will be scattered over the
eareth. Nature will speak to you
with its might breath of wind.
There will be earthquakes and
floods causing great disasters,
changes in the seasons, and in the
weather, disappearance of wildlife
and famine in different forms.
There will be gradual corruption
and confusion among the leaders and
the people all over the world, and
wars will come about like powerful
minds. All of this has been
planned from the beginning of
creation.
EAGLE FEATHER
And what will happen to us?
DAKOTA
Your traditional ways will vanish.
Through the white man's influence,
his religions, and the
disappearance of our sacred land,
you will be doomed. This is the
universal plan, speaking through
the Great Spirit, since the dawn of
time.
EAGLE FEATHER
We have been placed on this side of
the earth to take care of the land
through our ceremonial duties, just
as other races of people have been
placed around the earth to take
care of her in their own ways.
Together, we hold the world in
balance, revolving properly. When
we vanish, the earth motion will be
interrupted or disturbed. The
water will swallow the land, and
the people will perish.
Do you know of this Dakota?>
DAKOTA
Yes father. You must be aware of
the signs and omens which will come
about to give your courage and
strength to stand on your beliefs.
Blood will flow. Your hair and our
clothing will be scattered over the
eareth. Nature will speak to you
with its might breath of wind.
There will be earthquakes and
floods causing great disasters,
changes in the seasons, and in the
weather, disappearance of wildlife
and famine in different forms.
There will be gradual corruption
and confusion among the leaders and
the people all over the world, and
wars will come about like powerful
minds. All of this has been
planned from the beginning of
creation.
EAGLE FEATHER
And what will happen to us?
DAKOTA
Your traditional ways will vanish.
Through the white man's influence,
his religions, and the
disappearance of our sacred land,
you will be doomed. This is the
universal plan, speaking through
the Great Spirit, since the dawn of
time.
EAGLE FEATHER
We have been placed on this side of
the earth to take care of the land
through our ceremonial duties, just
as other races of people have been
placed around the earth to take
care of her in their own ways.
Together, we hold the world in
balance, revolving properly. When
we vanish, the earth motion will be
interrupted or disturbed. The
water will swallow the land, and
the people will perish.
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
EXT. VILLAGE - MORNING
The village wakes up to another morning --women do chores; children play; and men talk in a circle. Suddenly, an arrow pierces the skull of villager. A neighbouring tribe raids the village pillaging, looting, and stealing women. The village is left in ruins with several deaths.
The village wakes up to another morning --women do chores; children play; and men talk in a circle. Suddenly, an arrow pierces the skull of villager. A neighbouring tribe raids the village pillaging, looting, and stealing women. The village is left in ruins with several deaths.
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
INT. LONGHOUSE - NOON
The council of elders gathers to discuss the morning raid.
The council of elders gathers to discuss the morning raid.
1ST ELDER
(in native language)
How shall we deal with what has
happened?
2ND ELDER
(in anger)
This is happening much too often.
3RD ELDER
We mush send a strong message to
our enemies that this will not be
tolerated.
EAGLE FEATHER
We must find another solution other
than more violence. If we again
raid our enemies they will only
retaliate and the raids will only
continue. There will be no end to
this.
2ND ELDER
What then will you have us do,
Eagle Feather?
EAGLE FEATHER
You will recall at our last
council, I expressed the belief
that this stranger was sent with a
special purpose. I now believe
that this purpose will soon come to
fruition.
2ND ELDER
What do you mean?
EAGLE FEATHER
I will talk with the strangers and
ask him to attend our council later
today. He may have something of
importance to tell us.
1ST ELDER
What could a stranger have to say
that would shed light on this
matter?
2ND ELDER
We cannot afford to waste time. We
must kill our enemies before they
kill us.
EAGLE FEATHER
Don't you see what's happening? We
are all caught up in a circle of
revenge. We must find a real
solution to this problem.
1ST ELDER
Let us reconvene this afternoon and
listen to what the stranger has to
say.
(in native language)
How shall we deal with what has
happened?
2ND ELDER
(in anger)
This is happening much too often.
3RD ELDER
We mush send a strong message to
our enemies that this will not be
tolerated.
EAGLE FEATHER
We must find another solution other
than more violence. If we again
raid our enemies they will only
retaliate and the raids will only
continue. There will be no end to
this.
2ND ELDER
What then will you have us do,
Eagle Feather?
EAGLE FEATHER
You will recall at our last
council, I expressed the belief
that this stranger was sent with a
special purpose. I now believe
that this purpose will soon come to
fruition.
2ND ELDER
What do you mean?
EAGLE FEATHER
I will talk with the strangers and
ask him to attend our council later
today. He may have something of
importance to tell us.
1ST ELDER
What could a stranger have to say
that would shed light on this
matter?
2ND ELDER
We cannot afford to waste time. We
must kill our enemies before they
kill us.
EAGLE FEATHER
Don't you see what's happening? We
are all caught up in a circle of
revenge. We must find a real
solution to this problem.
1ST ELDER
Let us reconvene this afternoon and
listen to what the stranger has to
say.
INT. LONGHOUSE - AFTERNOON
Eagle Feather enters and sits next to Dakota who is meditating next to the fire.
Eagle Feather enters and sits next to Dakota who is meditating next to the fire.
EAGLE FEATHER
We have been fighting our
neighbours for many years now.
They raid us. We raid them back.
They raid us again. Will there be
no end to this madness?
DAKOTA
From where I come from, we have
laws to encourage people to live in
peace and unity.
EAGLE FEATHER
Laws? What kind of laws?
DAKOTA
Well. Sort of a system of self
rule guided by mrale principles.
EAGLE FEATHER
Dakota, are your willing to speak to
the council about your idea?
DAKOTA
If you want me to.
We have been fighting our
neighbours for many years now.
They raid us. We raid them back.
They raid us again. Will there be
no end to this madness?
DAKOTA
From where I come from, we have
laws to encourage people to live in
peace and unity.
EAGLE FEATHER
Laws? What kind of laws?
DAKOTA
Well. Sort of a system of self
rule guided by mrale principles.
EAGLE FEATHER
Dakota, are your willing to speak to
the council about your idea?
DAKOTA
If you want me to.
|
DISSOLVE TO:
|
INT. LONGHOUSE - EVENING
The council of elders gathers to continue their discussion.
The council of elders gathers to continue their discussion.
1ST ELDER
(in native language)
Welcome to our first meeting.
2ND ELDER
(in anger)
This is happening much too often.
3RD ELDER
We must send a strong message to
our enemies that this will not be
tolerated.
EAGLE FEATHER
Why of course. This law will bring
together all warring natins into
one heart, one body, one mind.
I propose a set of laws by which
all people and all nations live in
peace and unity. A system of self
rule guided by moral principles to
be called the great law. All acts
of self interest shall be cast
away. This law will bring together
all warring nations into one heart
one body, one mind. It will be
symbolized by using five arrows.
(in native language)
Welcome to our first meeting.
2ND ELDER
(in anger)
This is happening much too often.
3RD ELDER
We must send a strong message to
our enemies that this will not be
tolerated.
EAGLE FEATHER
Why of course. This law will bring
together all warring natins into
one heart, one body, one mind.
I propose a set of laws by which
all people and all nations live in
peace and unity. A system of self
rule guided by moral principles to
be called the great law. All acts
of self interest shall be cast
away. This law will bring together
all warring nations into one heart
one body, one mind. It will be
symbolized by using five arrows.