Traplines Draft #6

Traplines Written by Marjorie D.L. Roden /51

Traplines

A stageplay written by

Marjorie D.L. Roden

DRAFT #3 Completed February 5th, 2015

DRAFT #4 Completed February 22nd, 2015

DRAFT #5 Completed March 14th, 2015

DRAFT #5 Completed March 25th, 2015

PROPERTY OF FARMGIRL IN THE CITY PRODUCTIONS INC.

COPYRIGHT 2015


CHARACTERS: Jodie Randall – female, part Aboriginal, late 20's Aiden Joseph – male, muscular beanpole, mid 20's

Saul Charles – male, appears Aboriginal, early 50's Alana Joseph – female, Aiden's kid sister, 13 Darla – a teenage kid (appears about 17) Wilma – a graduate student assistant, mid-20's


SCENE 1

(Lights come up in the Joseph house. A couch is up stage centre, where there is a colourful crocheted blanket laying on it, with a lump underneath it roughly the size of a Westie terrier. ALANA JOSEPH (13) enters in her PJ's, has her hair in a couple of braids, looks worried, and carries in a bag of Beggin' Strips.)

ALANASmartie! Smartie, come on out girl! Come on Smartie, I've got your favourite!

(Alana walks around the couch not noticing the lump.)

ALANACome on, Smartie, where are you? SMAAAARRRRR-TEEEEEEE!!!

(Her older brother AIDEN JOSEPH (mid-twenties) comes out, hung over and in his pyjamas, his hair a mess, while yawning.)

AIDENWhat's with all the gorram racket, you little brat?

ALANAI'm trying to find Smartie, did you see her this morning?

(Aiden looks guilty on hearing the name “Smartie”)

AIDENNot lately....

ALANAWell, where is she then? I mean, I know she was in here last night ---

AIDENShe was....but ran out again....

ALANAWell, you got her back in again, right?

(Aiden looks uneasy and very guilty, and goes over to the couch)

AIDENNow sis, you know how skittish Smarie'd be....

ALANABut, you did get her in, right?

(Aiden makes an uncomfortable guilty grit-teeth face)


AIDENEventually, yeah....

ALANASo, where is she?

AIDENPromise me you'll not kick up a bunch of kaka on me....

(Aiden slowly lifts the blanket up, revealing the body of Smartie, a white Westie terrier, with a large black tire track across her midsection. Alana lets out a shriek.)

ALANAAiden, what the fuck?!

AIDENI tried to get her in, but it was 5 am and this driver just came out of nowhere ---

ALANASo you came in drunk, AGAIN, and she got out and got KILLED because of it?!! Asshole!!!

(Alana picks up Smartie's body and cradles it, then Alana picks up a cushion from the couch and hurls it at Aiden's head.)

AIDENI was out working last night, Alana. You know that.

ALANASince when do pizza delivery drivers finish up at 5 am on a weeknight? You were out drinking again!

AIDENCalm down ---

ALANAYou're a horrible brother --- you've always hated Smartie ---- I hate you, I hate you, I HATE YOU!!!

(Alana runs out of the room, and Aiden looks upset but weary)

AIDEN (weakly)Would it help if I said I was sorry?

(Alana returns in the room with her knapsack, a bundle of clothing, and Smartie's body.)

ALANAYou've always hated Smartie and would yell at her, you big drunk doo-doo head!

(Alana madly packs her bag, stuffing her clothes in first, then Smartie so her head is sticking out the top during this exchange)


AIDEN (pleads)Alana, it was an accident....

ALANAI wish I'd died with Mum and Dad!

AIDENNow just calm down --

ALANANo, I take that back --

AIDEN (soothing)Good, now let's bury Smartie by Mum's roses --

ALANAYou should have died with Mum and Dad!

(Silence as the words sink in. Aiden looks understandably hurt, then angered.)

AIDENAnd where, pray tell, do you plan on going to?

ALANATo Auntie Lizzie's place.

AIDEN“Auntie Lizzie” isn't even related, just one of Mum's old college friends –

ALANA (cuts off Aiden)She's always wanted me, you never did!

(Aiden signs, resigned)

AIDENFine, then go.

(Alana stares at Aiden in disbelief.)

ALANAWhat?

AIDENIf you can't take my word, that it was an accident, then get the fuck out, you thankless little brat!

(Alana shakes her head in dismay, then runs out with her knapsack. Lights fade down.)


SCENE 2

(Lights come up as we see Alana walking alone, toting her knapsack with Smartie's dead head sticking out. Approaching her from behind is SAUL CHARLES, a 54 year old Aboriginal-looking man. However, he speaks with a thick Russian accent.)

SAULExcuse me, do you know where the Forks might be located?

ALANAFar away from here, you'd have to take the 38 from downtown to get there.

SAULWhere would I find such a bus?

ALANAJust go catch it in front of the MTS centre, over there...

(Alana points nonchalantly, stepping in front of Saul and begins to lead him)

ALANAIt's just this way, follow me --

(Saul pulls a rag out of his pocket and puts it over Alana's face, she falls, and he carries her away. Lights fade.)


SCENE 3

(Lights up as we see JODIE RANDALL, mid-20's, sit centre stage with a notebook on her lecture theatre desktop and a small audio recorder beside it. She has on a pair of large sunglasses and is slouching in her seat, looking pained. After a moment, Aiden races in and skids in the seat beside her.)

AIDENSo, what did I miss?

(Jodie slowly turns and stares at Aiden in utter disbelief)

JODIEExcuse me?

AIDENIn the lecture, what did I miss?

JODIEThis is the first day of class....

AIDENSo, what did I miss?

JODIEDude, seriously, what time is it?

AIDENExcuse me?

JODIEWhat time is it?

AIDEN (looks at his watch)About eleven ---

JODIEAnd the lecture started at ten.

AIDENYeah, so? What did I miss?

(Jodie shakes her head in disgust and turns her attention back to the lecture)

AIDENWhat?

(Lights FADE)


SCENE 4

(LIGHTS COME UP as we see Aiden talking with DARLA, a tough looking teenage girl, later in the evening, in downtown Winnipeg.)

DARLAYou told me it would be $50 for a quarter, not $65! What is this shit, man?

AIDENLook, my supplier upped the price on me, so you get the cost passed along to you. And it's got a high demand, if you catch my meaning.

(The teen shrugs and hands Aiden the money, then scuttles off. Aiden chuckles to himself as he pocketsthe money. Saul then approaches him, Russian accent replaced with a Cree accent.)

SAULAiden Joseph?

(Aiden turns to look at Saul, getting a guarded look on his face.)

AIDENWho wants to know?

SAULI have your sister.

AIDENCFS has street workers now? Cute, but you're bullshitting, she's at a relative's place!

(Saul thrusts the knapsack with Smartie's head sticking out into Aiden's arms. Aiden gapes, shocked.)

SAULShe is the only family you have left, no?

(Aiden nods slowly.)

SAULYour sister may wind up like this stinky little dog if you don't do as I ask of you.

AIDENWhat's that?

SAULSeveral years ago, before you were born, something was stolen from my family. I need you to retrieve it .


AIDENWhat exactly is this that you're looking for?

(Saul gets emotional and slowly slips from his Cree dialect to his Russian dialect, Aiden looks confused)

SAULA piece of a puzzle, plans for some weaponry my father was developing in secret. Some agents who were part of a co-venture to steal my father's secrets did just that, and each took a part of it, so that it could never be put together.

AIDENDude, what happened to your voice?

(Saul pulls out a hand gun and points it low at Aiden, then pulls out a manilla envelope)

SAULYou go to the provincial university, right?

(Aiden nods slowly)SAUL

Good. Then this is what you're to do, befriend this girl, get close to her, gain her trust, then get the information we need from her. You do what I ask of you, and your sister -- Alana is it? -- returns to you unharmed.

(Saul hands the envelope to Aiden, and Aiden opens it, pulling out a photo)

AIDENI met her this morning.... How is this Jodie Randall supposed to have this information?

SAULHer father was part of the team, and all the agents kept their piece of the puzzle. I have located the other four pieces, the last one is with her, amid trinkets he left for her.

(Aiden stares at Saul in disbelief)

AIDENWhy not do it yourself?

SAULBecause I do not like to get my hands dirty.

(Aiden pushes Saul against a lamppost, angry. Saul only smiles)

AIDENHow about I just report you to the cops?


SAULI have diplomatic immunity, now I suggest you quit roughing me up, unless you want drug charges added to the record you already have from your youth.

(Aiden lets up, resigned)

AIDENWhy me?

SAULBecause I have observed how you push to the kids around here, you don't look like a criminal mastermind, you have an innocent, kind of, oh, what's the word for it, stupid and dorky look about you,which lets you into people's circles of trust.

(Saul walks closer to Aiden and looks him in the eyes)

SAULWork your way into her circle of trust, by whatever means necessary, and pump that information out of her. She's recovering from brain injuries, and you know what they say about people like that, they're dumbed down, a lot! An easy mark, even for someone like yourself. She likely doesn't even know she has it, but find it, get it, and your sister will return to you, more or less in one piece.

AIDENMore or less ---

(Saul pulls a cut-off braid from out of his pocket, shoves it into Aiden's chest, then backs away from Aiden menacingly)

SAULHere is the first piece, for modivation. I am sure you don't want to lose everything you hold dear. I will be in touch, and may even leave something for you at your house. Ciao.

(Saul disappears into the darkness and Aiden looks at the photo, the braid, then at Smartie's corpse in the knapsack. Lights go down.)


SCENE 5

(LIGHTS UP. Joseph house, living room. Aiden walks in, with his murse across his shoulder, and an ENVELOPE is sitting on the coffee table. He opens it, then drops it, eyes wide with horror.)

AIDEN: Fuck me....

(Aiden crouches on the floor, then picks up the envelope, and shakes a SEVERED FINGER out of the envelope, with the same bright nail polish on it as Alana was wearing in the opening scene. His hand is shaking. LIGHTS FADE.)


SCENE 6

(LIGHTS UP where Jodie is seated, still with her sunglasses on. Aiden enters, looking determined and shaken.)

AIDENThis seat taken?

JODIEYou park your pokey ass beside me every day, what do you think?

(Aiden sits, then looks at her again, calming down)

AIDENSo....what's the deal with the sunglasses?

JODIEI got a pair of concussions over the summer, my eyes are super-sensitive to light, and working on computers is a near impossibility for me now. Gotta love scrambled eggs.

(Jodie taps her temple on “scrambled eggs”)

AIDENThen why are you even enrolled in classes? You should be resting --

JODIEI am on a scholarship, but if I drop out, even for medical reasons, I lose it. I am so damned close to graduating, but the pain --

AIDENDo the profs know?

(Jodie nods)

JODIEThey've been granting extensions, but it's near impossible to concentrate, or even read, with these headaches and dizzy spells. Sometimes, I feel so faint, I do all I can to keep my tactile senses going to keep myself conscious.

AIDENIs that why you run your hands along the walls when rabbitting to class?

JODIEYou've noticed?

(Aiden nods)


JODIEI've got no family nearby. My mother's in Alberta running the ranch on her own... I don't like letting on to her exactly how bad I am.

AIDENWhat's your doctor doing to help you?

(Jodie laughs at this)

JODIEOther than telling me to “stay in a dark room and not think”? Not a bloody motherfucking thing!

AIDENNo pain killers?

JODIEOh, the doc wrote on a piece of scrap paper how many over-the-counter pills I “should be taking” but as I know the one destroys bone and the other destroys the stomach, well, forget it. I'd rather try something a bit more....natural.....and far more potent than those storebought, bodywrecking..... shitpills!

(Aiden's interest is piqued)

AIDENWhat did you have in mind?

(Jodie shakes her head wearily, still slouching)

JODIEYou couldn't help me, you're too straight an arrow!

AIDENTry me.

(Jodie stares at Aiden, and takes a steadying breath)

JODIE I've stolen a few moments on the internet researching using marihuana, it's been used in the NFL to treat concussions, but the campus clinic doc refuses to sign the paperwork or even tell me where to go to get it legally. She has “morality issues” with it being prescribed at all, and even said I was being a whiney little bitch wanting it. She's not the one who can't sleep regular hours anymore, or whose lost her appetite, or can barely read, that's the hell I'm going through –

AIDENI can help you get some.


JODIEAre you kidding me?

AIDENNot at all. I mean, we've been in this writing class the past month, and though you seem like a plain Jane to me --

JODIEDude, I may have brain injuries, but I know I'm pretty --

AIDENI will help you out with this class shit, and help you recover from your injuries.

JODIEWhat's the catch?

AIDENHow about you make me dinner once you're feeling better?

(Jodie smiles slightly, then puts her hand to her head, wincing from a head pain.)

JODIEI am behind the eight-ball with the first assignment.... I mean, I have it written in a notebook, but typing it up on the computer is a no-go....or at the very least, a hellishly painful slow-go.....

AIDENOk, then let's up the date of you cooking me dinner, I'll come over and type it up.

JODIEFor someone that comes across as a total douchey slacker square, you can be brazenly forward with women.

AIDEN (laughs)Just be happy you have a nice guy with no strings who wants to help you!

JODIEI'm grateful for the offer. And cooking is about the only thing I can do right now.

(Jodie scribbles down something in her notebook, then rips out the page and hands it to Aiden)

JODIEHere's my address. You busy tonight?

AIDENOnly with you.

(The two smile at each other. LIGHTS FADE)


SCENE 7

(LIGHTS UP where a table and a couple of chairs are present, and a large salad bowl is already on the table. On the other side of the stage, a kitchen area is visible. Jodie is in the kitchen, buttoning up her shirt, then pokes some buttons on her smartphone. She then shoves the phone into her pants pocket and walks in from the kitchen, carrying a large roasting pan with oven mitts on her hands. A DOORBELL chimes off-stage, and Jodie puts the roasting pan on the table, then goes to the door and opens it, revealing Aiden, carrying a brown paper bag)

AIDENI hope I'm not too late.

JODIENot at all, I just got the pot roast out of the oven.

AIDENI should have mentioned to you, I'm a vegetarian....but I am willing to try new things!

JODIEGuess I should learn to cook with tofu and lentils and pigweed a bit more.

AIDENPigweed?

JODIEYeah, it takes something like spinach, only better, has more zip to it!

AIDENOh. Well I don't want to trouble you --

JODIEHey, you've offered to help me with my classes and my health situation, being able to cook you meals once in a while is the least I can do!

AIDENWell, I did bring dessert, to test which way's the best way for you to take your “medicine”!

JODIEYou went all out, didn't you?

AIDENWe need to figure out which works best for you, the brownies would have about a half hour delay, but joints are more immediate --

JODIEJoints, please!


(Jodie goes dizzy and grasps a chair, looking ready to fall over. Aiden comes over quickly and catches her.)

AIDENWhy don't you sit down?

JODIE (weary)But, I still need to get the plates and stuff --

AIDENPoint me in the direction, and I will get all that, and after, we can have a friendly little toke together to help you with your pain. After that, I can type up that short story for you!

(Aiden's phone buzzes)

JODIEYou going to answer that?

AIDENI'll go get those plates.

(Aiden goes into kitchen and pulls out his phone, and Jodie smiles to herself)

JODIEFor someone who's not your type, you're sure trying to suck up to me!

(Aiden stares at what's come in on his cel phone, looks surprised, then gets a wolfish leer on his face)

AIDENWhat can I say, I'm a nice guy!

(Jodie keeps smiling, but pulls out her cel phone, putting it close to her face, then after poking a few buttons on it, grins, then looks towards the kitchen, amused. Aiden is still gawking at what's come in onhis cel, and reacting as a guy might react)

JODIEYou need some help in there?

(Aiden snaps out of it, hurridly puts the phone away, then grabs the plates and cutlery)

AIDENNo it's all.....good! Real good!

(Aiden sails back in, carrying the plates and cutlery, and smiles charmingly at Jodie, who puts her cel phone away. LIGHTS FADE)


SCENE 8

(LIGHTS UP as Jodie and Aiden come into the class and sit down, each carrying a travel mug. Jodie is wearing regular glasses now. WILMA, a grad student, comes over to them.)

WILMAHere's your assignments back.

JODIEThanks.

AIDENThank you, Wilma.

(Wilma leaves as Aiden opens his paper, and smiles)

AIDENHey, yay me, I got a B.

(Jodie looks at Aiden)

JODIENotice anything different about me today?

(Aiden looks over at Jodie)

AIDENNot really, no.

JODIEDude, which one of us has the brain injury? You should be slightly more observant!

(Jodie points to her glasses, and Aiden does a slow over-exaggerated nod)

AIDENNo more sunglasses!

JODIEYeah....

AIDENSo, how'd you do on the assignment?

(Jodie looks at the paper in her hand, not opening it up, her hand shaking slightly)

JODIEI don't think I want to know.


AIDENOh come on, just take a look!

(Aiden yanks the paper out of Jodie's hand and flips it open. He reads the mark silently, and openly gapes.)

AIDENFuck me....

JODIEGod, not in front of everyone!

AIDENYou got an A.

JODIEWhat...?

(Jodie takes the paper back, and looks at it, and Aiden smiles at her.)

JODIEThanks for helping me!

AIDENNo problem, and hey, we have the partner assignment to do yet, you have a partner yet?

(Jodie shakes her head)

AIDENNeither do I. So what do you say we make this our first collaboration together?

JODIESure, I'm game.

AIDENCool, let's make this the first of many.

(Aiden lifts his cup up and they tap their cups together in a toast. Once they take a sip, Aiden smiles at Jodie suggestively.)

AIDENWho knows, maybe we'll create the ultimate creative collaboration someday!

JODIEA bit presumptuous, don't you think?


AIDENI have a feeling about you, Jodie Randall.

(Jodie shakes her head, and chuckles)

JODIELet's just concentrate on our friendship and working relationship, okay?

AIDENI think we could be more than that. Way more than that!

JODIEAiden, we're basically working together and....relationships like that are jinxed from the start!

AIDENCome on, take a chance! Yolo, you know?

(Jodie gives Aiden an amused look and shakes her head in amused disbelief, LIGHTS FADE)


SCENE 9

(LIGHTS UP. Aiden enters the living room. Saul is sitting on the couch, sprawled)

SAULSo, how are things going with Miss Randall?

AIDENThey're....going.....

SAULDidn't bring a reminder this time, little Alana doesn't really miss you though. She needed a real man in her life, if you catch my meaning.

(Aiden looks angered, clenching his fists)

AIDENIf you've messed with her in that way --

SAULOh I haven't yet, but I cannot say the temptation isn't there, she's quite the little looker --

(Aiden attacks Saul, but Saul pulls out a knife and holds it to Aiden's throat)

AIDENI could still call the Mounties on you --

SAULDiplomatic immunity, remember?

(Saul gets up off the couch and pushes Aiden away roughly, knocking him to the couch)

SAULUp the pressure, or more fingers come off.

(Saul leaves and Aiden sags on the couch, distraught. LIGHTS FADE)


SCENE 10

(LIGHTS UP as Jodie is seated in the classroom, her notebook on her lap, and sending something off on her cel phone, smirking. Aiden comes in, visibly shaken)

JODIEPenny for your thoughts.

AIDENPenny's out of circulation, bitch.

JODIEWhat's wrong, Aiden?

AIDENJust...family problems.

JODIESomething up with your parents?

AIDENNo, they're already six feet under.

JODIEI'm sorry to hear that.

AIDENNo, it's my sister – she's....coming apart.....and I don't know what to do. I mean, I've been looking after her since our folks died a couple years ago...

JODIEYou're doing the best you can, Aiden.

(Jodie grasps Aiden's hand, and his phone buzzes. Neither notices it as Aiden stares off into space)

AIDENShit like this happening makes me not want to ever have kids.

JODIEWell, how old is your sister?

AIDENThirteen.

JODIEEveryone's difficult at thirteen, I've been told by my mother I was a holy terror!


AIDENWhat about your father?

JODIEHe was never around, and he croaked six years ago, so whatever.

AIDENNot close, I take it?

(Jodie shakes her head)

JODIEHe was a drunk and stole some heirloom jewelry from my mother. Hell, he never bothered paying childsupport, but at least Mum's ranch kept us afloat. When he died, he left a few trinkets for me, some of his old military doo-dads, but none of my mother's jewelry was ever found.

AIDENWhat do you think he did with it?

JODIELikely sold it for booze.

(Aiden looks at Jodie thoughtfully)

AIDENYou know, I could reconsider that whole thing about not having kids if you were the mother.

(Jodie smiles slightly)

JODIEWe've only been dating a few weeks, Aiden. Let's just see if we last past Thanksgiving, okay?

(The two squeeze hands and LIGHTS FADE)


SCENE 11

(Lights up. Jodie is helping Aiden walk into her apartment. Both are wearing white t-shirts that have writing all over them. He flops an arm around Jodie's shoulder.)

AIDENI'm in no fucking shape to drive. Thank you for letting me crash here!

JODIEAiden, you only had two beer!

AIDENYou sure?

(Aiden stops, and swings himself in front of Jodie. Both are in profile, and Aiden bends over and starts hugging Jodie)

AIDENYou're such a sweetheart, Jodie Marie Randall.

(Jodie is awkwardly hugging him back, and her head and face are just over his shoulder as Aiden is bent like a giant candy cane over her)

JODIEHey, I couldn't let you wobble home this piss-drunk, Aiden. And I'm sure you don't want your little sister to see you in this state!

(Aiden then begins to kiss Jodie's neck. At first, her eyes widen and she looks shocked but Aiden pulls her in closer)

JODIEWhat are you....doing?

AIDENShowing my gratitude.

(Jodie looks both like she is enjoying it but also feels awkward)

JODIEAiden...

(Aiden starts again, and this time, Jodie looks like she is enjoying it, and she strokes his hair. After a few seconds, Jodie opens her eyes and kisses Aiden on the cheek. Aiden then slides his head onto Jodie's chest and starts crying)


AIDEN

I hate using you like this....

JODIEIt's just a little bit of kissing and...

(Aiden keeps kissing her neck, then gropes one of Jodie's breasts, and she grabs him by the wrist, yanking his hand away)

JODIEAiden, you're out of line...

AIDENI know.... I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place..... But I don't have any choice!

(Jodie looks down at Aiden)

JODIEWhat the hell are you on about?

(Aiden straightens up to a standing position)

AIDENI ---- You ---- my sister ----

(Jodie holds Aiden's hands a bit tighter, trying to comfort him)

JODIEI'm sure whenever I meet her, we'll get along. And to be honest, over these last few weeks, well, you've grown on me, and...I think I might love you.

AIDENLove....that word's a joke. I mean, I don't love you. I've only been getting close to you to save my sister....

JODIEWhat, you want me around as a role model for her?

(Aiden shakes his head, and pulls a bit away from Jodie so he can look her in the eyes, drunkenly serious)

AIDENYou're not even pretty, other than perhaps these amazing breasts that I may have to hurt to find whatever it is I'm supposed to be finding!

(Jodie gives Aiden a look)


JODIEFine, you don't have to get all Freddy Krueger creepazoid on me. You're scared of the word “love”, so let's just call it a natural force, ok?

(Aiden glances around Jodie's apartment, remembering his “task”)

AIDENNow, where is it?

JODIEWhere's what?

(Aiden starts rifling around the room, knocking over different ornaments, and finds a teddy bear)

AIDENMaybe....maybe it's in here!!!

(Aiden tries to rip it open but Jodie tackles him. The two start wrestling around for the bear, each holding it firmly)

JODIEExcuse me, that's one my granny made me!!!

AIDENFrom which side?

JODIEMy mother's!

(Aiden lets go of the teddybear and they both fall flat. Jodie then gets up, grabs a pillow from her couch, and hurls it at Aiden's head)

JODIEYou're drunk, aren't making any sense, and need to sleep this off. Good fucking night, Aiden.

(Jodie walks away, furious. Aiden takes the pillow, puts it behind his head, and flops to the floor. LIGHTS DOWN)


SCENE 12

(LIGHTS UP. Jodie is sitting in the classroom, first sending something off on her smartphone, then turns her attention to the front of the class. Aiden comes in and sits beside her.)

AIDENHello.

(Jodie ignores him and keeps focused on the front of the room. Aiden shakes his head slightly)

AIDENStill not speaking to me? Look I can't remember anything after we left the graffiti social, but whatever happened, I am sorry.

(Jodie gives Aiden a sideglance but says nothing. Aiden's phone then buzzes, he takes a quick look at what has come through, and he grins broadly, then takes his grin down to slightly. Jodie pretends not to notice, but also smiles slightly. Aiden then looks over at Jodie and pushes a bit more.)

AIDENLook, let me make it up to you, I'll bring supper over to you tonight, I'll swing by the Chicken Coop and get you some chicken strips. And I'm not taking “no” for an answer. If you aren't there, I will just stick around until you show up. You cannot get rid of me that easily!

(LIGHTS FADE)


SCENE 13

(LIGHTS UP. Jodie is in her place, trying to read something on her computer, and wearing her sunglasses again. A knock at the door gets her attention and she goes to answer it. Standing there is Aiden, carrying a large brown paper bag full of take-out food. Jodie watches Aiden suspiciously as he walks in)

JODIESo, when you walked me home and passed out on my floor the other night --

AIDENYeeeees?

JODIEDo you remember anything about our farewell?

AIDENYeah, I remember everything --

JODIESo you remember the.....hugging session, I take it?

(Aiden slowly looks at Jodie, stunned)

AIDENPardon?

JODIEIn here, as soon as you got in. You were bent over like a giant candy cane, and had me in a vice grip.

AIDEN (stunned)Oh God, that's.....completely unacceptable behaviour.....I did that?

JODIEIt's alright, I didn't mind, and you didn't grope too too much, so it's all good.

AIDENYou sure?

JODIEYes, I am. Let's just eat, okay?

AIDENSure, let's eat!

(The two start eating, LIGHTS DOWN)


SCENE 14

(LIGHTS UP as Jodie sits down in the lecture theatre, with her notebook on her lap. She looks at herwatch, and shakes her head.)

JODIEThis is the second time you've missed class, where the hell are you, Aiden?

(Jodie pokes a few buttons on her cel. LIGHTS DOWN)


SCENE 15

(LIGHTS UP. Aiden opens the door to Jodie's apartment and he starts looking around, then nervously knocks over a little ceramic figurine. He looks through its pieces, and shakes his head.)

AIDENWhat the fuck, there's nothing here that creep wants....

(Aiden's phone buzzes, and he looks at the message, smiling slightly)

AIDENLonelygal85, thank you for knowing exactly how to cheer me up. Someday, we'll meet, but I've got to stay focused on saving Alana. And if that means scamming Jodie, sweet gal that she is....

(Aiden shakes his head, as if to get the positive thought about Jodie out of his head.)

AIDENBut I've received another finger, with the note “More fingers next week”, so I have to make things more....intense.

(Aiden stares out, pondering. LIGHTS DOWN)


SCENE 16

(LIGHTS UP. Jodie is seated in the classroom. Aiden enters with a single red rose and puts it on top of her notebook.)

AIDENI've got a rental car and a cabin for the weekend. All I need is you.

JODIEExcuse me?

AIDENWe're both tense with all the assignments as of late, and I don't know about you, but I want to try and get things back to where they were before I got so drunk. I miss that closeness, that trust, that --

JODIENatural force?

(Aiden stares at Jodie blankly)

JODIEYou really don't remember anything about when you got so drunk, do you?

AIDEN (shaking head)Did I say something really ridiculous when I was drunk?

JODIEIt's something I said. Natural force describes my feelings for you.

(Aiden continues to stare at Jodie blankly)

AIDENSo, do you want to go there, or not?

(Jodie smiles slightly, recognizing the double meaning of Aiden's statement)

JODIEWhen do we leave?

(Aiden and Jodie smile at each other. LIGHTS DOWN)


SCENE 17

(LIGHTS UP. Jodie's apartment, the two quickly enter.)

JODIEI'll just be in my room, packing for the trip!

AIDENSounds good, should I pack some snacks for the road?

JODIESure!

(Jodie goes offstage and Aiden heads to the kitchen. He finds a travel mug then goes to a blender and quickly puts some strawberries, a banana, protein powder and water into it.)

AIDEN (to self)Okay, one way or another, I'm getting my sister back.....

(Aiden's phone buzzes, and as he starts up the blender, he pulls out his phone. He openly gapes and looks rather turned on.)

AIDEN (to phone)Holy fuck, Lonelygal85, you are one sexy and daring piece of womanhood! Someday, girl, someday....

(Aiden still looks at the picture on the cel phone as he finishes the work with the blender, and carefully pours as much of the smoothie in the cup as he can, then pulls out a small vial from his pocket and pours the liquid into it, stirring quickly with a spoon)

JODIE (off-stage)How are you making out with finding everything in there?

(Aiden quickly finds a couple of boxes of cookies, a huge jar of peanut butter, and a loaf of bread, and tosses them into a cloth grocery bag)

AIDENFine, you get what you needed...?

(Jodie comes out, changed into a low cut sweater, carrying a knapsack)

JODIEAnd then some, you ready?

(Aiden comes out of the kitchen and notices the sweater – and the cleavage)

AIDENSmoothie?


(Jodie smiles, takes the smoothie, and takes a sip of it, then licks her lips suggestively)

JODIEMy favourite, strawberry.

AIDENOk, let's go!

(Jodie's eyes roll, and she passes out. Aiden smiles slightly. LIGHTS DOWN)


SCENE 18

(LIGHTS UP. Jodie, in her apartment, is tied to a chair, blindfolded and gagged, her glasses removed. She is struggling with her bonds and appears to be getting frustrated. Aiden enters, and snickers.)

AIDENYou shall fast-track my plans, my dearest Jodie....once you give me what you want!

(Aiden takes the blindfold and gag off of Jodie, and she gives him a bewildered look)

JODIEDude, what the hell?

AIDENYou have something I want, and you'll give it to me now!

JODIEWith my hands tied?

(Aiden takes a deep breath, Jodie stares at him)

JODIEWhy am I tied up?

AIDENTo show you who's boss, bitch!

(Aiden comes around and shift's Jodie's chair at an angle to look her in the eyes)

AIDENTell me about your father.

JODIENot much to tell beyond what you already know. He was an alcoholic, a violent one at that, jaded by both being in Residential Schools and serving in the Canadian Military in the 60's, my mother dumped his ass and divorced him, and he croaked a few years ago.

AIDENWhat did he leave you, besides the trinkets you told me about?

JODIEA two hundred dollar phone bill and a four hundred dollar power bill to pay for, if you must know!

AIDENNothing else?

(Jodie gives Aiden a look, hurt mixed with anger)


JODIEHave these last two months of dating been nothing more than some kind of covert operation to get dirt on my dead old man?

AIDENNo, it's to retrieve something he stole before you were born.

JODIEWhat exactly is “it”?

AIDENWould you believe me if I said plans to the Death Star?

JODIEYou haven't a clue what you're looking for, do you?

(Aiden walks away running his hands through his hair on both sides of his head, frustrated. Jodie takes this in.)

JODIEI'm guessing I'll not be leaving this room alive, and'll become fish food in Lake Winnipeg.

(Aiden turns back to Jodie, looking almost in despair)

AIDENI don't want to kill anyone –

JODIEWhat do they have over you?

AIDENExcuse me, you're the one tied up, I'll be asking –

JODIEIt would take a hell of a lot for a man like you to resort to violence.

AIDENYou know nothing about me, Jodie Randall.

JODIEDon't I?

AIDENWell then tell, good lady, tell me all you know, from the vast plethora of knowledge I have gleaned your direction, exactly who I am!


(Jodie studies Aiden's smug face)

JODIEOh you told me lots when you were drunk, good sir, too much to get into right now. My main focus was to make sure you didn't puke on my floor.

(Aiden walks away from Jodie, exasperated, then starts pacing in a circle around her, trying hard to regain his composure)

AIDENWell, thank you for looking after me that night, but don't think the fact that you mothered me up is going to make me soften towards you, or make any fucking difference --

JODIE (sarcastic)Oh I'm sure it won't.

AIDENDamn straight it won't! No, you....you have to know what it is I'm looking for --

JODIEI've no clue on the “what” but I have a good idea on the “why”.

AIDENNo you don't --

JODIEYour little sister?

(Aiden stops dead in his tracks behind Jodie. She presses on)

JODIESomeone has either threatened her or has her hostage.

(Aiden looks crestfallen but tries regaining his dignity and composure)

AIDENDid I tell you that you were my target?

JODIEYes, you bawled your eyes out over that one!

(Aiden comes to Jodie's side, glaring straight into her eyes)

AIDENI don't bawl, ever!


JODIE (dry)Fine, your tear ducts required a spontaneous hydraulic release of saline water that lasted several minutes, your head buried deep within my chest, getting my poor sisters soaked!

AIDENWell.....you should have been wearing a thicker t-shirt! It's your own fault!

(Jodie rolls her eyes, looking a bit amused as she shakes her head)

JODIEIt was the same kind as the one you wore to the Graffiti social, and for the record, you copped a feel!

(Aiden stalks away from her)

AIDENFuck you bitch, I did not!

JODIEYou most certainly did! While bawling your eyes out, you said something along the lines of “I may have to hurt these amazing breasts to find what I'm looking for”. That was of course after you finished punching dough with my breast while madly seeking a nuk-nuk on my neck.

AIDEN (calmly, seethingly shocked)A nuk-nuk on your neck?

JODIEYeah, a nuk-nuk on my neck. You actually left quite the impressive hickey at the time, but at least I hadsome makeup to cover it with!

(Aiden pulls what appears to be a gun out of the back of his pants, pointing it straight at Jodie)

AIDENListen, lady, let's get one thing straight! First of all, you're a means to an end. That was all part of my act to get you to trust me --

JODIERemember I gave you the cold shoulder for a week after that!

AIDENBut you took me back!

JODIEBlame the concussions.

(Aiden turns his back to Jodie, walking away from Jodie)


AIDENI never found you attractive.

JODIELook me in the eyes and say that.

AIDENI'm the one with the gun, bitch, how about I just shoot you?

JODIESure, shoot me with that lighter!

(Aiden looks crestfallen but can't turn back to face Jodie)

AIDENHow did you know it was a lighter?

JODIEI didn't, just going 2 and 0 with the guesses. And I know you're not stupid, so please let me try to help you.

AIDENHelp me? How?

JODIEAiden, how long have we been seeing each other?

(Aiden remains silent, Jodie continues)

JODIEI know you don't trust easily, but you know if there's any way I can help, I will. Remember that natural force --

AIDENThat's a low blow.

JODIENo, it's honesty, one thing that I've always had where you're concerned, and a trait that only seems to come out in you after a couple of beer.

(Aiden turns and goes face to face with Jodie, moving an a couple of long strides to kneel beside her and point the gun/lighter at her head)

AIDENYou tell anyone that I get drunk after two beers again, and I'll light your hair up like a campfire!


JODIE (amused)Sensitive much?

(Aiden gives her chair a push, jolting her slightly)

AIDENLook, you can't help me other than helping me figure out what it is that you have what this whack job wants. If all goes well, you might make it out of this whole pile of kaka alive --

JODIEYou sure about that?

(Aiden starts pacing around Jodie in a tighter, uneven circle)

AIDENI am fully in control of the situation, jumping through every disgusting hoop they've asked of me! The worst being dating you!

JODIEDude, don't even go down that road, I do have proof you find me attractive!

AIDENOh do tell, this should be interesting --

JODIELonelygal85.

(Aiden stops, as if he's hit a brick wall, and slowly turns to look at Jodie)

AIDENNo.

JODIEYes.

AIDENCan't be.

JODIEWhy not?

AIDENBecause -------- it can't be!

JODIEWell, it is!


AIDENA girl like you isn't supposed to be that --

JODIESexy and daring?

AIDENBrazen and .... over-exposed!

(Aiden begins pacing again, this time in wider circles)

JODIEWell, you've looked at those “brazen and over-exposed” images I sent you over thirty-five thousand times, you big pious moose! When a man looks at photos of a girl that many times, it's kind of a tell-tale sign that he's attracted and likes what he's seeing!

AIDENYou – Oh you are ---

JODIEWhat?

AIDENYou're so....

JODIEIrresistable to you?

(Aiden stops and glares)

AIDENYou set a trap, an unfair and nasty trap!

JODIE (laughing mockingly)This coming from the man who said we would be going on an intimate getaway this weekend, knocking me out with a tough guy strawberry smoothie and tying me up in my own apartment? Wow, you're a cheapskate AND a hypocrite!

(Jodie thumps in her chair indignantly. Aiden looks at her, then starts to laugh. Jodie also starts laughing at the absolute absurdity of the situation)

AIDENYeah, you have a point...

(Aiden walks behind Jodie's chair and puts his hands on her shoulders, and puts his face beside hers)


AIDENI know this is hard to believe, but I really don't want to hurt you any more than I already have. After all,you already have enough issues with men, with your father --- don't need me adding to that psychological freight train of angst you already feel towards men.

(Jodie gives Aiden a very odd look as he says this)

JODIECan it with the make-believe ego and grow up, Aiden!

(Now Aiden gives Jodie a look)

AIDENI am doing the only grown-up thing I am able to – all I can to save my sister.

JODIENo, you're not.

AIDENHow do you get that?

JODIEHave you actually asked for any help?

AIDENHelp?

JODIELook, I might be able to --

AIDENHelp?

JODIEYes.

AIDENHow?

JODIEWe'll need to be going on a little trip, so untie me.

AIDENWhy would I untie you?

JODIEBecause if we're going to find what will save your sister, we'll need to go up North.


AIDENUp north?

JODIETo my father's trapline in Deschambeault. And I'll not be able to help while tied to this damned chair!

AIDENTrapline? I thought he was an ex-soldier ---

JODIEHe came back after serving, got zero perks, and after Mum divorced him, went up to Northern Saskatchewan and set up a trapline. My cousin Saul was left my father's trapline, and he's been asking me to go up and visit him.

AIDENWhat makes you think we'd find the plans there?

JODIEI told you he'd stolen jewelry from my mother once when he ran off, well he wrote me when I was a child telling me that he left it in his safe deposit box system on the trapline. He also sent me a bunch of Cree language flash cards, I think, which really made no sense, he knew Mum couldn't help me learn how to speak Cree!

(Aiden eyes Jodie suspiciously)

JODIELook, my cousin Saul has been writing to me the last six years since my old man croaked to come up and see the bloody trapline. If we go together as a couple, he won't suspect, and we can get what's needed to free your sister.

AIDENExcuse me, as a “couple”? This sounds like another trap, like the photos --

JODIEIt's the best shot we have, and no worries Aiden, once we get back, I promise I'll dump your sorry, slacker ass so we'll both be free to find true love, okay?

(Aiden's face takes on a look of pained sadness on the “dump your sorry, slacker ass” bit but says nothing as the words sink in. He then unties her in a fury.)

AIDENOkay, let's get to the fucking trapline.

(Jodie nods as Aiden starts untying Jodie. LIGHTS FADE)


SCENE 19

(LIGHTS UP. Saul is standing and has a high powered hunting rifle slung across his shoulder as Jodie walks up, carrying a knapsack on her back. Saul speaks with a Cree accent.)

SAULSo good to finally meet you in person, cousin! How's life in the big city?

JODIEYou mean Winnipeg? It's there, I suppose...

SAULWhy now? I've been asking you for years to come up here.

JODIEThe city sometimes drives me a bit stir-crazy, I just needed a change of scenery with my boyfriend.

SAULBoyfriend? Is he one of us?

JODIEHe's human --

SAULOr did you do the same as your old man and fall for a moonias?

(Jodie gives Saul a baleful look)

JODIEMy mother's an amazing person, moonias or not. Father was a crap catch for her, and you know what, I don't blame race for that at all!

SAULIt's what people like her represent --

JODIESomeone who's tolerant and represents bridges being built? I'd thank you to not be insulting to my boyfriend because I do love him, quite deeply!

(Aiden enters, carrying a knapsack on his back as well, approaching Saul from behind)

AIDENWhat's that you saying about me, Schnookums?

(Saul turns around to face Aiden, and Aiden's face goes deathly serious)


AIDENYou.

SAUL (back in Russian dialect)I was hoping it was you who delivered her up here to me, thank you.

JODIEExcuse me.... Aiden...? Saul?

AIDENI had no clue, Jodie....

SAULI won't be having any more use for you, Aiden --

(Saul aims the rifle at Aiden but Jodie gets between them)

JODIEYou do anything to him, and I won't help you find those plans.

(Saul stares at Jodie, and Aiden grasps her hand, pulling her to his side)

AIDENJodie, what are you doing?

(Jodie stares at Saul intently, and squeezes Aiden's hand)

JODIENow as I understand it, you have Aiden's sister. You have her, and have been threatening to kill her unless something my father stole from your father is found. I am guessing my real cousin Saul is long dead, and that you assumed his identity?

(Saul stares at Jodie openly, almost with a look of admiration on his face)

SAULSo, he told you – and yes, your real cousin's been dead the last six years. The real Saul Charles got in my way when I first approached your father to tell me where he hid what he stole from my father. That dope Saul walked in, so I shot him. Your father tried to get me out of his cabin, but died of a heart attack.

JODIEYou killed my father as well?!

SAULNo, he just dropped dead of the thought of me getting to you. Because I did get it out of him that he sent you the instructions as to how to find it, it just took me a while to track you down, and then to find someone suitable to pump you for the information.


JODIEFine, then here I am. Let Aiden and his sister go, and I will go with you on the trapline and find it.

SAULNo, I will not let her go --

JODIEI need proof of life before setting foot onto that trail.

(Saul chuckles)

SAULYou're serious.

JODIEDamn straight. Now, I will try and find those plans for you, but we need to see her first.

(Saul smiles slightly)

SAULYou're a lot like your father, I remember seeing him as a child. So calm and collected when under pressure that would have cracked most men, and knowing how to strike a deal in conflict.

AIDENJodie --

JODIE (firm)Proof of life, I am assuming you have her over there in that cabin.

(Jodie motions with her chin towards the front stage left corner, and Saul nods)

JODIEThen bring her along while we check the trapline.

SAULAre you trying to trick me?

JODIEWhat's the big trick? It's myself and two white kids up here who don't know a thing about being in the wild like this, and would likely wind up getting lost very quickly if we venture out on our own.

SAULTrue enough, I will get the little brat, and we'll be on our way.

(Saul exits front stage left while Aiden and Jodie exchange looks.)


AIDENYou have any idea what you're doing?

JODIE (shrugs nervously)Trying to make sure we're alive by sundown...?

(Saul re-enters, holding Alana roughly by her forearm. Alana has a bloodied mitten on one hand as wellas a chopped off braid)

ALANAAiden!

(Alana runs to Aiden and the two hug, all disagreements from before vanishing with the emotional hug)

SAULAlright, enough of that, come with me now. The lot of you.

(As the group exits, LIGHTS COME DOWN)


SCENE 20

(LIGHTS UP. The four enter. A couple of tree stumps are present in the back-centre stage area, about five feet apart. Aiden has his arm around Alana and Aiden is still holding hands with Jodie, while Saul still has a large hunting rifle across his shoulder)

ALANAAiden, this guy is nuts, he chopped off two of my fingers, and took Smartie from me!

AIDENI know, I have them at home in the cooler. And Smartie's in the freezer so we can bury her when we gethome.

SAULSo this is where I believe he has the stuff hidden, near these tree stumps. Jodie, get over here and read these weird symbols.

(Jodie looks up at Aiden, and he pulls her in for a hug. As they are close, she whispers something in his ear. Aiden's eyes widen but he says nothing as she backs away from him, their eyes locked)

JODIEWeird symbols? Couldn't you translate them yourself? Or even Google them?

(Saul shakes his head, annoyed)

SAULI tried Googling, but it's not pure Cree, it's similar to Oji-Cree, only different. A mix with something else. Now look at them, and tell me what they say.

(Jodie goes around to the backs off the tree stumps so she is facing the front of the stage, looks at the carvings on the tree stumps, and smiles slightly before looking up at Saul)

JODIEWere there any other stumps along the trapline like this?

SAULNo, these were it. So, what do they say?

JODIEWhat do they say?

SAULYes, you can read them, can't you?

JODIEI think so.... This one says “My dog Cricket is buried here”, and the other one says “Precious objects here”, most likely what you're looking for is in this one.


(Saul walks over and stares at the two stumps, then gives Jodie a hard backhand across the face. Both Aiden and Alana go over to help her until Saul points his rifle at them)

SAULOh no you don't. Jodie, get up, tell me what they say again?

(Jodie gets up shakily)

JODIEBastard, I think you just gave me another concussion.

SAULWell boo hoo. Now tell me what I asked for.

(Jodie points to the stump on stage right, then the one on stage left)

JODIEHis dog Cricket is buried there, and his valuables are there.

(Saul pulls a folding shovel out of his knapsack and unfolds it, then motions to Jodie.)

SAULGo back there, with your little moonias friends. Try anything, and I will kill you.

JODIEWe just want to live.

SAULOf course.

(Jodie walks over to Aiden and Alana, and Saul shoots her, then fires a shot towards Alana and Aiden. Aiden gets in front of Alana, shielding her, but he falls on top of her. Saul laughs to himself.)

SAULFools. I know you didn't read those correctly, both have metal in them! I did use a metal detector, you halfbreed twit! I will dig where you claim Cricket's buried, get my father's plans back, then put you three in their place!

(Saul starts digging, then the lights suddenly go RED on Saul as we hear a large explosion, and the stage goes black. Lights then slowly come up as Aiden and Alana start to get up, with Saul's dead body laying back stage right, and Jodie's still form where it was before)

ALANAHow did you not get shot?


AIDENJodie picked up some bullet-proof vests for us to wear, in case we ran into any trouble. She should be okay too...

(Aiden's voice trails as he sees her still form on the ground, and he goes over to her.)

AIDENJodie, you alright?

(Aiden begins to turn Jodie over and pull her into a sitting position, and she begins to come to)

JODIEI think I'll need a hit of something as soon as we get back into the city...

(Aiden pulls a joint and a brownie out of his pocket)

AIDENYou really think I'd leave home without a couple of these on me?

JODIEJoint, now!

(Alana stares in disbelief as Aiden lights the joint for Jodie, then eyes the brownie hungrily)

ALANAHey, can't I have the brownie? I love chocolate!

(Aiden shakes his head firmly, frowning at Alana as Jodie takes a drag. Jodie looks at Alana seriously.)

JODIEHow much does your hand hurt?

ALANAA lot.

JODIE (to Aiden)Give her the damn brownie!

AIDENBut she's...

JODIE...in pain. Give it!

(Aiden looks torn but on the looks from both Jodie – a rather stern look, and from Alana – very hopefulwith a puppy-like innocence – he pulls it out of his pocket and tosses it to Alana, then takes the joint and takes a huge annoyed drag)


AIDENYou're turning my sister to the dark side --

(Aiden hands the joint back to Jodie as Alana wolfs down the brownie)

JODIE (weary and dizzy)I want to check out the spot he didn't dig at, I think there's something of my mother's in there.

ALANAI know I have part of my hand missing, but I could do it.

(Alana grabs the shovel, which was thrown by the explosion to near her, and goes behind the other stump and starts digging as Jodie takes a drag)

AIDENYou sure both aren't jerry-rigged?

(Jodie nods and hands the joint to Aiden, who takes a drag himself)

JODIEThe one he dug at – and I took a gamble that he wouldn't believe me – said “Dig here, go boom”, and the other one really did say about precious items. And I knew from what father wrote me in that letter, that knowing the Black-Cree syballics for those two phrases would be vital someday.

(Aiden hands the joint back to Jodie as she starts taking a drag)

AIDEN“Black-Cree”?

(Jodie nods)

JODIEAn informal mashup of Blackfoot and Cree, there's no written record of it.

AIDENSo, now what?

(Jodie takes her drag then looks at Aiden as she hands the joint back to him)

JODIEWhat do you mean?

AIDENYou said something about dumping my ass once this was all done, and once I got Alana back.

(Aiden takes a smaller drag as Jodie speaks)


JODIEWell as I recall, you'd said some very insulting things to me that made dumping your ass seem like a really brilliant plan.

AIDENThen I guess we should ---

(Alana makes a stab with the shovel and a metallic CLUNK is heard, then smiles)

ALANAI think I found something!

(Alana bends down,and pulls out an old Player metal tobacco tin, covered in dirt, and brings it over to Jodie. Aiden snuffs out the joint and shoves it into his coat pocket)

ALANAWhat's in there?

JODIEI don't know, but I want to find out!

(Jodie tries twisting the top off the tin, but it won't budge, so Aiden takes it from her.)

AIDENHere, let me.

(Aiden opens it up, and hands the tobacco can back to Jodie. Jodie looks inside, and smiles)

JODIEMy grandmother's garnet engagement ring, I'd recognize it anywhere from the photos of it!

(Jodie picks up the ring, and Aiden leans over, taking a look at it as well. He then picks it out of her hand, and holds it near her.)

AIDENMay I?

(Jodie nods, and Aiden slides the ring onto her finger. The two look at each other for a moment, seated together on the ground. Alana then starts to giggle, and Jodie and Aiden turn to look at her)

ALANACan we go home now?

(Aiden and Jodie exchange looks)

AIDENI don't know, can we go home now?


JODIEYes, of course.

AIDENThat's a natural force, isn't it?

JODIEWhat do you think?

(Aiden and Jodie get up, and the three exit, arm in arm)

LIGHTS DOWN. END OF PLAY.

Traplines Draft #6

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Transcript of Traplines Draft #6