WHY DON'T THEY CARE WHAT HAPPENS TO THE EARTH?

 

by

 

D. M. Larson

 

 

* * *

 

 

Copyright (c) 2002

All Rights Reserved

 

 

* * *

 

Cast of Characters

 

 

Bear: A polar bear that can be a

female or male that is bigger

than the other cast members.

She is the leader of the

group, the wisest, and mother

or father figure to SEAL.

 

Puffin: Short, chubby male or female.

He is a true dreamer and

expert story teller. He plays

the comedy relief of the play

always coming out with a good

joke at a moments notice.

 

Seal: Short and scrawny female or

male. Can be played by a

child. She is a child thrown

into an early adulthood. She

is often weak and scared.

 

Fox: An arctic fox that is a small,

slender male or female. He

has an unfortunate reputation

of being a thief. He also

seems to always get himself

into some kind of trouble. He

is very jumpy and tends to

complain a lot.

 

Wolf: An arctic wolf who is the

second biggest in the cast.

He is a male or female with a

very strong personality. He

comes across as powerful and

mysterious. Normally, he is a

loner. He becomes the warrior

and protector of the group.

 

Time and Place

The present. In the arctic.

 

Note

The five characters can simply be played by actors wearing neutral colors or clothing color coordinated with a head dress that represents the animal he or she is playing. The play can be performed on any style of stage (traditional, thrust, arena, etc.). No props are required, only costumes. The type and dynamics of the stage is up to the theatre producing the play.

 

Background

The tragedy of the Alaskan oil spill can never be undone. Hopefully, it's sacrifice will be remembered and not repeated. This play is in the memory of an touched North that is has now been altered beyond repair.

Although, humorous in nature, this play still hopefully will help our children to see clearly what has been done. Maybe, in the best of all possible worlds, they will learn to avoid our mistakes.

 

* * *

ACT I Scene 1

 

(Lights come up on BEAR sitting, C, looking sadly out into the audience)

 

BEAR

(To herself)

When, I saw those mighty Man vessels break through the ice into my domain twelve moons ago, I could feel the danger. The ice parted before them, unable to resist. The scars still remain. At the last moon, I was awakened by an overwhelming and choking smell of the black liquid Man came to my home for. My eyes are weak, but I could still see what they had done. Their mighty vessels had been split open by the rocks in the sea and their treasure of the dark liquid seeped out, blackening the once blue waters.

(Stopping and expressing disgust)

The smell is unbearable...

(Sad)

and my homeland is ruined. My food that is in the sea has been spoiled and I am hungry. Many of my friends have either moved on or passed away. Man has robbed us of our beautiful home.

(About in tears, BEAR stops and tries to keep

control of whatever emotion she has left)

 

PUFFIN

(Off R)

Stupid, stupid Men!

(Coming on)

Messing up my home and my life!

(Crossing to BEAR but still talking to himself)

And right when things were going so well.

(Talking to BEAR)

I was about to open those ice slides I've always dreamed about, but no. Those stupid men had to mess it all up with their stupid black stuff, that spilled all over the place.

 

BEAR

(Sadly)

Hello, Puffin.

 

PUFFIN

(Plopping down next to BEAR)

It's been a rough day.

 

BEAR

It's been a rough moon.

 

PUFFIN

(Angry and upset)

That black junk in the water took away my family. My whole family, Bear!

 

BEAR

(Sadly)

Mine's gone, too.

 

PUFFIN

(Evenly)

I have to get out of here. That stupid whatchamacallit is getting to me.

 

BEAR

You're leaving?

 

PUFFIN

(Stands)

Right away. I'm out of here.

 

BEAR

Where are you going?

 

PUFFIN

(Dreamily)

South. To a land free of Men and their stupid black stuff.

 

BEAR

Never heard of any place like that.

 

PUFFIN

It's a wonderful place. No worries, no cares...

(Angrily)

and best of all, no Men.

 

BEAR

Have you been there?

 

PUFFIN

No, my great uncle told me about it.

 

BEAR

Why did he come back?

 

PUFFIN

I'm not sure. Something about it being a sort of confined delight.

 

BEAR

Huh?

 

PUFFIN

Don't ask me. He was very old when he told me. He babbled a lot. You can come along, if you want to.

 

BEAR

(Looking out to sea)

There's nothing left for me here; anything sounds better than this. Especially if there are no Men.

 

PUFFIN

You'll love it. What a glorious place it is. You'll never be hurt, you'll always have shelter, and you'll have more food than you ever dreamed of.

 

BEAR

I've dreamed of quite a bit lately.

 

PUFFIN

Me, too.

(Poking belly)

Food has been scarce ever since that black junk mucked up the water.

(Angrily)

Stupid Men.

(Crying is heard off L)

BEAR

(Concerned)

What's that?

 

PUFFIN

(Waddles L of BEAR)

Sounds like someone is crying.

(A white, baby seal comes on crying from L)

 

BEAR

It's a baby seal.

 

SEAL

(Sees others, stops, and cowers)

Please, don't hurt me. I'll go away.

 

BEAR

(Going to SEAL)

No, wait. You can stay.

 

SEAL

You won't hurt me?

 

BEAR

(Smiles)

No, of course not.

 

SEAL

(Moves closer)

Thank you.

 

PUFFIN

What's with the tears?

 

SEAL

I'm all alone. My family...

(Stops, cries)

 

BEAR

(Bringing SEAL, C, and setting her down)

It's all right to cry. Let it all out.

 

PUFFIN

Sure. I cry all the time. Some of my best friends cry...

(BEAR stops him ramblings with a look)

 

BEAR

Just relax, you're among friends.

 

SEAL

(Crying)

My mother sent me away when she got sick. She said it was no longer safe. She pleaded with me to go, but I couldn't. Then, suddenly, she stopped talking. I tried to get her to speak, but she wouldn't. She wouldn't even sing to me anymore. She always sings to me. Always.

(Crying uncontrolably)

 

BEAR

(Hugging SEAL)

You're safe, now. We'll take care of you.

 

PUFFIN

You'll always have friends if you stick with us. My pop told me once that if you're kind to everyone and have a smile on your face, you'll always have friends. Ya' know...

 

BEAR

You don't have to run anymore. You can rest at last.

 

PUFFIN

Then, we'll take you away from this Man corrupted land to a better, more beautiful place.

 

BEAR

Where there's no Men and no hunger.

 

PUFFIN

You'll never have another worry again.

 

SEAL

(Brightening)

It sounds like a wonderful place.

 

BEAR

We'd gladly bring you along.

 

PUFFIN

You bet. "The more the merrier." My Grandpa said that.

 

SEAL

I won't be too much trouble?

 

BEAR

Not at all.

 

PUFFIN

We'd love to have you. My family always liked us to have lots of friends.

(Laughs to himself)

But, you should have seen my mom's face when I brought home...

(He is caught in a fit of laughter)

 

SEAL

(Tears)

I was so worried I'd be alone forever.

(Smiles)

Mother was right. A worthy prayer is always answered. I prayed so very hard for a friend

(To BEAR)

and I got one.

 

BEAR

Your mother sounds like a beautiful animal.

 

SEAL

(Smiles)

Yes, she...

(Pause)

was.

 

PUFFIN

My mother had fine advice, too. Like, never swim on a full stomach, always stay away from Men,

(Wondering backwards)

And never, ever wander to close to the edge of a cliff.

(From off R, FOX bursts on and tumbles into

PUFFIN)

Watch it, Fox!

 

FOX

(Terrified)

Wolf!

(Stumbling forward and pointing off R)

Wolf!

(SEAL hides behind BEAR)

 

PUFFIN

(Annoyed, grabs him)

Now, hold on a minute, buck-o. Just calm down and tell us why in the world you are being chased by a wolf?

 

BEAR

They aren't usually too fond of eating foxes.

 

FOX

(Scared)

It was an accident, really. I didn't mean to knock him into the water.

 

PUFFIN

Wait a minute. This story is missing something. How did you manage to knock a wolf into the water?

 

FOX

I was happily running along, when suddenly the ice became slippery. I began sliding along, out of control. I tried and tried, but I couldn't stop. Next thing I knew Wolf was in the water.

 

PUFFIN

Real smooth.

 

FOX

(Pleading to PUFFIN)

Please, help me. It was only an accident.

 

WOLF

(Off R)

I'm on your trail, Fox!

(PUFFIN and FOX join SEAL behind BEAR. WOLF comes

on)

Where is that little thief?

 

BEAR

(To FOX)

What does he mean by thief?

(FOX shrugs innocently)

 

WOLF

That little creep knocked me in the water and stole my fish!

 

FOX

Accidents happen.

 

WOLF

Accident!

 

FOX

I didn't mean to knock you in.

 

WOLF

I suppose you accidentally took my fish, too.

 

FOX

(Smiles weakly)

I figured you didn't need them since you were busy trying to get out of the water.

 

WOLF

(Moving in)

Why you little...

 

BEAR

(Firmly)

Hold on a minute, Wolf.

 

WOLF

(Stops, angrily)

What!!

 

BEAR

Why can't we stop fighting among ourselves? There are only a few animals left. We need to start helping each other, rather than hurting one another.

 

WOLF

Fine, keep the little, thieving Fox. I have better things to do than stand around and argue with you.

(WOLF exits R)

 

FOX

Thank you ever so much, Bear.

 

PUFFIN

Thief, eh? You want to know what my Aunt did to a thief once...

 

FOX

Oh, no. I'm not a thief. I'm just hungry. These are desperate times.

 

BEAR

I suggest you be a wee bit more careful in your search for food no matter how hungry you are.

 

FOX

I'm sorry. I seem to bring trouble where ever I go.

(Starts to exit L)

I won't cause you any more problems.

 

SEAL

Wait, don't go. You don't want to be alone do you?

 

FOX

(Stops)

No, not really.

(PUFFIN looks suspiciously at him)

I'm trouble, Seal. I have to go.

 

SEAL

(To BEAR)

Don't let him go. He'll be alone.

 

BEAR

Seal's right. You must stay with us.

 

PUFFIN

(Giving in)

Sure, why not.

 

FOX

(Happily jumping about)

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much.

 

PUFFIN

Yeah, yeah, you're welcome. Just calm down. It's not that big a deal.

 

SEAL

And you can come with us, too.

 

FOX

Where?

 

PUFFIN

(Jumping into story mode)

To a glorious place, where there are no Men to cause us any more pain.

 

FOX

(Excited)

No Men. You can count me in.

 

WOLF

(Off R)

I wouldn't trust him if I were you!

 

FOX

(Diving behind BEAR. Whines)

It's that awful Wolf, again!

(SEAL and PUFFIN back away)

 

BEAR

(To off R)

I thought you were leaving, Wolf?

 

WOLF

(Off)

I changed my mind.

(Comes on)

I like the sound of that place of yours, Puffin. I might just go have a look.

 

FOX

Make him go away. He scares me.

 

BEAR

You can stay if you promise to leave Fox alone.

 

WOLF

(He settles down in shadows UR)

No problem. He's forgotten.

(Goes to sleep)

 

FOX

(Stage whisper)

Please, Bear. Send him away.

 

BEAR

I can't. Wolves do what they want. I usually don't argue.

 

PUFFIN

My cousin knew a wolf, once. Handy fellow to have around.

 

BEAR

Yeah, right.

 

PUFFIN

You never know, you might be thankful he's sticking around.

 

FOX

In your dreams, Puffin.

 

BEAR

I must admit, having a wolf around makes you feel kinda safe.

 

FOX

Depends who you are.

 

PUFFIN

Well, I can't say I'm sorry he's coming. Wolves make enemies think twice.

 

FOX

I see why.

 

SEAL

(To BEAR, looking at WOLF)

I've never seen a wolf before. But, Mother told me stories about them. My family didn't like them very much.

 

BEAR

Nor mine.

(Puzzled)

But, this wolf is different. They usually don't like sticking around. I don't see why he wants to go with us.

 

SEAL

I hope he stays friendly.

 

BEAR

(Smiles)

Just be kind and keep a smile on your face.

 

PUFFIN

Ya' know, that's exactly what my pop always says...

 

BEAR

Let's get some rest. We'll leave in the morning.

(She settles down LC. PUFFIN plops down R of her)

 

PUFFIN

Good night, all.

 

FOX

(Curls up L of BEAR)

Night.

(Keeps a watchful eye on WOLF)

 

SEAL

(Goes up to BEAR)

Bear?

 

BEAR

Yes?

 

SEAL

Do you think Puffin's place is real?

 

BEAR

I'm not really sure.

 

SEAL

Then, why go?

 

BEAR

There's nothing left for me here.

 

SEAL

I'm scared. I've never been away before.

 

BEAR

(Comforting)

Everything will be fine. You're safe with us. Sleep, now. It's late.

 

SEAL

(Settles down next to BEAR. Pause)

I miss my mother.

 

BEAR

Sleep.

 

SEAL

Good night.

(Pause)

And thank you for not letting me be alone.

 

(BEAR smiles and pats SEAL on the head as the

lights fade to black)

 

 

Scene 2

 

(Lights come up on the sleeping bunch minus the

WOLF. They are all awakened by the Wolf's howl

off R)

 

FOX

(Jumping up)

What was that?

 

BEAR

It sounded like Wolf.

 

PUFFIN

I wonder what he's up to?

 

WOLF

(Flying on from R)

Men!

 

SEAL

(Scared)

What?

 

WOLF

Men. They're coming. We must go, quickly.

 

PUFFIN

(Waddling off L)

Those stupid Men. Don't they ever give it a rest?

 

FOX

(Runs off L)

I'm gone.

 

BEAR

Hurry, Seal.

 

SEAL

I'm scared.

 

BEAR

You must be brave. They feed on fear. Run!

(They exit)

 

WOLF

(Glares off R. Growls in disgust)

Men.

(Exits as lights fade)

 

Scene 3

 

(Lights come up on an empty stage. Voices are

heard off L)

 

FOX

(Off L)

I'm tired. Is it much farther? I need to rest.

 

WOLF

(Off L)

Will you shut up?!

 

PUFFIN

(Waddles on from L)

I think we'll stay here for the night.

 

FOX

(Coming on and sitting C)

It's about time.

 

WOLF

(Entering)

Anything to stop your complaining.

(Settles down UL)

 

BEAR

Will you both please stop it?

 

FOX

I'm hungry.

(WOLF growls. BEAR scowls at them both)

 

SEAL

Come on, Puffin. Let's go fishing.

 

PUFFIN

(They start off R)

Sounds good. Ya' know, this reminds me of the time pop and I...

(They disappear off R)

 

FOX

Why do we have to go so far everyday? It makes my paws ache so.

 

BEAR

I guess we're in a hurry to get South.

 

FOX

I suggest we slow down and take it easy for awhile. I'm tired, I'm hungry, and I'm wet. It's been days since I've had enough sleep.

 

WOLF

(Jumps up)

Shut up, Fox! I'm tired of your complaining! Can't you keep quiet for a single second!

(FOX backs away frightened. He doesn't look where

he is going and falls through the ice. [Note: This

can be done either off L or on a sloped part of

the stage possibly downstage])

 

FOX

(Falls)

Help!

 

BEAR

He's fallen through the ice!

 

WOLF

(Dives and grabs FOX)

I've got him!

 

BEAR

(Grabbing WOLF)

Don't let go!

 

FOX

I don't plan on it!

 

WOLF

Pull, quickly, Bear! I'm loosing him.

(BEAR pulls them both out. They all lie

motionless on stage a moment)

 

FOX

Thank you, Wolf. You saved me.

 

WOLF

(Goes to UR)

Yes, I did.

(He turns his back and is silent)

 

BEAR

(To FOX)

You okay?

 

FOX

I'm mighty cold.

 

BEAR

At least you're alive.

 

FOX

(Looking at WOLF)

Why did he save me?

 

BEAR

Why shouldn't he?

 

FOX

He seems to hate me so much. But he still saved me.

 

BEAR

Wolves are a strange breed. I never understood them.

 

FOX

And why is he staying with us? Don't they usually travel alone or at least with other wolves?

 

BEAR

They're loners all right. I don't know why he stays.

(To FOX, concerned)

Rest while you can. We have another long day ahead of us.

 

FOX

(Settles down. Sarcastic)

Yippee skippy. I can't wait.

(SEAL and PUFFIN come on carrying pantomimed

armloads of fish)

 

PUFFIN

We hit the mother load!

 

BEAR

(Sitting down)

Bring it on over. I'm starved.

 

FOX

(Head pops up)

Food?

(Sees fish)

Food!

(Sits by BEAR and digs in)

 

SEAL

(Crosses to WOLF. Smiles kindly)

Would you like to join us?

 

WOLF

No, thank you.

 

SEAL

We have plenty.

 

WOLF

I hunt on my own.

(SEAL turns sadly away. WOLF sees this)

But, thank you.

(SEAL smiles and then joins others. WOLF exits R)

 

SEAL

Puffin, tell us a story.

(To others)

He tells wonderful stories.

 

PUFFIN

It's something to do while fishing.

 

BEAR

Go on, tell us a good one.

 

SEAL

Please, Puffin.

 

PUFFIN

Okay. I'll tell you the story about a little girl and the last fox on Earth.

 

FOX

I don't know about this.

 

SEAL

What's a little girl?

 

PUFFIN

A young Woman; Man's mate. They are the females of their species, but much kinder and gentler. Man's better half I might add.

 

FOX

(Worried)

What about the fox?

 

Scene 4

 

PUFFIN

Once upon a time, in a land not so far away, there lived a little girl named Cindy.

 

(Lights fade. SEAL becomes CINDY and FOX becomes

the last fox on Earth)

 

PUFFIN

(In darkness now along with BEAR)

She was a kind little girl. As nice and gentle as a kitten.

(CINDY comes skipping on from R and sees some

flowers)

 

CINDY

What beautiful flowers. I must take one home to mother.

(She picks a pantomimed flower and smells it. She

hears movement off L)

Hello, is someone there?

 

FOX

Nope. Nobody here but us flowers.

 

CINDY

You can't fool me. I see you.

 

FOX

Well, bully for you.

 

CINDY

Please, come closer. I've never seen anything like you before.

 

FOX

And you never will again.

 

CINDY

What makes you say that?

 

FOX

(Comes closer)

I'm afraid that I'm the last fox on Earth.

 

CINDY

The last one?

 

FOX

Men hate us. They think we're killers. I've only taken a chicken of two, really. But they still think we're vicious killers that must be wiped out.

 

CINDY

That's awful!

 

FOX

No kidding.

 

CINDY

Are you scared?

 

FOX

Of course, wouldn't you be?

 

CINDY

Then, why don't you run and hide?

 

FOX

I'm tired of running.

 

CINDY

Don't you want to live?

 

FOX

I don't know anymore. I've been dodging hunters all my life. It gets kind of old after a while. Sometimes I think I should just let them get me. There's a lot of prestige in killing the last of a species, plus there's a high price for it's skin. I could set somebody up for life.

 

CINDY

That's terrible! How can they get away with that?!

 

FOX

That's the way it works in this world, kid. Kill the last of a species and you'll be rich. It's posted everywhere.

 

CINDY

I don't understand.

 

FOX

I ought to just let you take me in.

 

CINDY

I could never so that.

 

FOX

You'd be rich.

 

CINDY

I can't kill just to get money. It's immoral.

 

FOX

Since when are Men moral?

 

CINDY

Please, run away. My dad will be home soon.

 

FOX

I can't run anymore. There's no use.

 

CINDY

(Urgently)

My dad's a hunter. You've got to go.

 

FOX

Let him have me, then.

 

DAD

(WOLF becomes her DAD. Off R)

Cindy? Is that you?

 

CINDY

Hurry, you must go.

 

FOX

No, I can't.

 

DAD

(Off)

Cindy?

 

CINDY

Please, go!

 

DAD

(Off. His voice is hushed but excited)

Cindy, is that a fox? Don't move, honey, don't scare it away.

 

CINDY

Run!

(FOX doesn't move)

 

DAD

(Off)

Cindy, move away.

 

CINDY

Daddy, no.

 

DAD

Cynthia, move!

 

CINDY

No! Please, don't hurt him!

(To FOX)

Why don't you run? He'll kill you if you don't!

 

DAD

Cindy!

 

FOX

(Weakly)

Move, Cindy.

 

CINDY

No!

 

FOX

Please, let me die.

(She starts to object)

Please.

(CINDY runs off to her DAD)

 

DAD

(Off)

Good girl.

(Lights fade as a rifle is cocked and fired. The

crying of a little girl is heard in the darkness)

 

Scene 5

 

(Lights come up on a sad foursome)

 

FOX

I don't know if I liked that story very much.

 

SEAL

It was so sad.

 

BEAR

Doesn't build a lot of hope inside you, does it?

 

PUFFIN

I like depressing stories. They make you feel better about your own life.

 

BEAR

True.

 

PUFFIN

They make you realize that things could be worse.

 

FOX

It sure didn't cheer me up. Why did it have to be a fox?

 

PUFFIN

It didn't have to be. It have been any animal. A bear, a seal, or a wolf. We're all in danger of the same thing.

 

SEAL

(Sadly)

Men.

 

PUFFIN

You're learning fast.

 

SEAL

They scare me.

 

BEAR

They scare me, too.

 

SEAL

They do? But, you're so big.

 

BEAR

It doesn't matter. Men have figured out ways to kill us all. You name an animal, they have a way.

 

SEAL

Are we all going to die, like that fox?

(FOX squirms)

 

BEAR

I don't know.

 

PUFFIN

I've heard that some Men do care. They try to save us and our homes and work to stop the bad Men from wiping us out.

 

FOX

They're not trying hard enough if you ask me.

 

PUFFIN

No, It's just that not enough Men care.

 

SEAL

Why don't they?

 

PUFFIN

They're into helping themselves. They only support us if it means they'll turn a profit.

 

BEAR

Man's a strange creature.

 

FOX

That's an understatement.

 

BEAR

It's late. We need some rest.

 

FOX

Agreed. Good night all.

(He exits R)

 

PUFFIN

(Follows FOX)

Night.

(Exits)

 

SEAL

(To BEAR)

Sleep well.

(Starts to exit R)

 

BEAR

You, too.

 

SEAL

(Stops)

Aren't you coming?

 

BEAR

I'll be with you in a minute. I need a moment alone.

 

SEAL

Okay.

(SEAL exits R. BEAR stares sadly ahead a moment.

WOLF enters from L. Sees BEAR. Stops and turns to

exit again)

 

BEAR

(Sees WOLF)

Wait.

 

WOLF

What?

 

BEAR

Stay a moment. I'd like to talk.

 

WOLF

(Stays in shadows)

As you wish.

 

BEAR

(After a short pause)

Why are you staying with us?

 

WOLF

It pleases me for the moment.

 

BEAR

Wolves are loners, they stay with no one.

 

WOLF

We do what we please.

 

BEAR

I still don't understand why it pleases you to travel with us. It's not natural.

 

WOLF

(Angry)

Is anything natural in this world, anymore?

(Pause. He turns to go)

It's late. Go to sleep.

 

BEAR

Please, don't go yet.

 

WOLF

(Stops)

What do you want, now?

 

BEAR

There's more, isn't there?

(Gently)

Please, tell me.

 

WOLF

Yes. There's much more.

(Pause)

Man came and destroyed my home, made it unlivable for my kind.

(Stops, doesn't want to tell anyone his feelings)

 

BEAR

Go on. It will make you feel better if you talk about it.

 

WOLF

(Glaring at BEAR)

All right. But, if you tell a soul what I tell you, you'll live to regret it.

 

BEAR

I shall keep whatever you say to myself.

 

WOLF

(Wanders as he talks)

When, Man came to our land, some of my kind moved on, searching for a place that didn't have them. The others who stayed traveled closer to each other than usual; safety in numbers.

 

BEAR

We all changed our natural habits when they came.

 

WOLF

Not I. I stayed on my own. A loner of loners. Then, one night, I heard horrible screams from my fellow wolves. I rushed to see what had happened...

(Pause)

 

BEAR

I heard also, but I stayed away.

 

WOLF

(Upset)

I couldn't. The screams were too piercing.

(Pause)

I was seized by the cries and drawn to the source.

 

BEAR

What had happened?

 

WOLF

The Men had set a huge trap for the Wolves and lured them in with raw meat...none escaped. They all were beaten to death with clubs.

(Pause)

They died in such agony.

(Stops)

 

BEAR

(After a moment)

I'm sorry.

 

WOLF

They killed the rest of my kind that way. I managed to avoid the traps, though. Figuring they successfully wiped us out, the trapping stopped.

 

BEAR

Why did they do it?

 

WOLF

When they first arrived, a wolf attacked one of the Men after it had been chased and cornered. They decided we had to be destroyed before any Men were killed.

 

BEAR

I can't believe they could be so stupid.

 

WOLF

Well, they are.

 

BEAR

Still, why didn't you stay alone? Why choose us for companions rather than other wolves that were far away?

 

WOLF

I searched and I called. I found no one.

 

BEAR

(Sadly)

You're alone.

 

WOLF

When, I knew that, I felt lonely for the first time. I like being alone, but not that alone. I needed someone of any kind, to be with. I found you all and wanted so badly to stay. Never before had I wanted friendship so badly.

 

BEAR

(Smiles)

Stay with us, my friend. You are welcome.

 

WOLF

(Looks at BEAR)

I will.

 

BEAR

I'm thankful to have you with us. I feel much safer.

 

WOLF

Someone has to take care of all of you.

(Exits L)

Good night, Bear.

 

BEAR

Good night, Wolf.

(Alone)

May your dreams comfort you.

(Lights fade to black)

 

Scene 6

 

(Lights come up on BEAR lying C and SEAL, PUFFIN,

and FOX are using her as a pillow. WOLF is UL in

the shadows. They are looking up at the night

sky. [Note: The characters can be in various

arrangements depending on the stage. On a thrust

or arena stage where the audience rises about

them, they could lie flat looking up. Otherwise

they can sit up or rest against something])

 

SEAL

The sky is beautiful tonight.

 

BEAR

It's so clear. The stars are easy to see.

 

FOX

There are so many of them.

 

PUFFIN

...one hundred and two, one hundred and three...

 

SEAL

The stars are so peaceful and soothing. It would be such a wonderful place to be.

 

FOX

Puffin, tell us again about the place we are going to.

 

PUFFIN

There are no worries or cares. Everything you've ever wanted is there. More food than you could ever desire and a shelter that is yours forever. And best of all, not a Man can touch you. There's nothing they can do to hurt you.

 

SEAL

Will we be there soon?

 

FOX

We've been traveling a long time. Is it much farther?

 

PUFFIN

We are getting closer. I can feel it.

 

FOX

The only thing I feel is my aching feet.

 

SEAL

I'm so excited. It sounds like a dream come true.

 

PUFFIN

It is, Seal.

 

FOX

I hope there isn't much traveling.

 

PUFFIN

None. You can stay in one place for as long as you like.

 

BEAR

I hope it's not too hot.

 

FOX

Or too cold.

 

PUFFIN

It will be just right for each and every one of us.

 

BEAR

It sounds almost too perfect.

 

FOX

What's wrong with that?

 

BEAR

Nothing. I'm just cautious that's all.

 

PUFFIN

It all will be better than any wish someone could create with their wildest imagination.

 

SEAL

I wish we were there.

 

FOX

Life is looking grand. Imagine. Out of the hands of land mushing Men and into paradise.

(Lights fade to black)

 

Scene 7

 

(Lights come up on an empty stage. BEAR enters

from R. PUFFIN and SEAL enter from L)

 

BEAR

I can't find him.

 

PUFFIN

Where did that crazy Fox go?

 

SEAL

He's been lost for hours.

 

BEAR

Keep looking. I have a bad feeling that he needs help.

 

PUFFIN

Right.

(He exits L)

Come on, Seal.

(SEAL exits)

 

WOLF

(Enters from R)

Find him?

 

BEAR

No. I haven't come across any sign of him.

 

WOLF

I'll check the lower cliffs.

 

BEAR

I'll swing by the valley.

(Exits R)

 

WOLF

(Goes DLC to a lower part of the stage [if

possible]. Lights come up on FOX caught in a

trap)

Fox!

(Rushes to him)

 

FOX

(Weakly)

Wolf, I'm caught.

 

WOLF

Let me free you.

(Starts at trap)

It won't budge.

 

FOX

(Sniffing)

Smell that?

 

WOLF

(Stops and sniffs)

It's a Man!

 

FOX

Leave me. Save yourself.

 

WOLF

(Struggling with trap)

No! Just give me a second.

 

FOX

It's no use. Get out of here.

 

WOLF

I can't leave you.

 

FOX

The Man's getting closer. Get away, quick!

 

WOLF

He'll kill you.

 

FOX

He'll kill both of us if you don't go. Run!

 

WOLF

But...

 

FOX

Don't sacrifice yourself. My time has come. Go and find your paradise.

(Closes eyes)

I shall soon be in mine. I will be far, far away...

(Pause. Opens eyes)

...out of the hands of Men and into paradise.

 

WOLF

(Sadly)

Peace, my friend.

(Peace)

Say hello to the Great Spirit for me.

 

FOX

(Tries to smile)

Long life, my friend.

(Lies down and closes eyes. WOLF lingers a moment

than darts away. Lights fade to black)

 

Scene 8

 

(Lights come up on WOLF sitting motionless C.

BEAR enters from R)

 

BEAR

Wolf. Did you find him?

 

WOLF

(Sadly)

Yes.

 

BEAR

(Pause)

Is...is he all right?

 

WOLF

(Upset. Begins speaking in no particular order)

He was caught in a trap. The Men have his skin. I watched from the shadows after Fox sent me away to safety. He didn't want me to be caught, too. I wanted so badly to rescue him from their filthy hands...

 

BEAR

We must leave, quickly, before they find the rest of us.

(PUFFIN and SEAL enter L)

 

PUFFIN

(Sensing sadness)

What's wrong?

 

SEAL

Where's Fox?

 

BEAR

(Slowly)

He...he's dead.

 

PUFFIN

What?!

 

BEAR

He was caught in a trap.

 

WOLF

There wasn't time to save him.

 

SEAL

(Looking around)

I'm scared. I want to go back. Men frighten me so badly.

 

BEAR

(Comforting SEAL)

You'll be safe with us. We must all stay close from now on.

 

PUFFIN

I feel awful about this. This is my doing. I brought us South. I'm sorry. My dream of a glorious land clouded my thinking. I ignored the dangers. It's my fault.

 

WOLF

It's not your fault. We each chose to come. Your dream became ours, also. You're not responsible for our choices.

 

BEAR

Men bring us these dangers. They threaten to destroy us. If there is a chance of being free of that threat, I want to take it.

 

WOLF

I agree. Even just a dream of no Men is a fantasy worth seeking.

 

PUFFIN

(Smiles)

Thank you, friends.

 

BEAR

For what?

 

PUFFIN

For not blaming me.

 

BEAR

You weren't the cause of Fox's death. It was the Men.

 

PUFFIN

Stupid Men.

 

WOLF

Men destroy all that is around them and wonder what happened to it when it is gone.

 

SEAL

Why do they hurt things? Why don't they care what happens to the Earth?

 

BEAR

I don't know.

 

PUFFIN

I don't think they know.

 

WOLF

One day they'll be sorry.

 

SEAL

But will we be here to see that day?

(Everyone is silent)

 

PUFFIN

(Breaking silence)

I wouldn't want to be around after Men run the Earth for awhile anyway.

 

SEAL

(Upset)

Why doesn't the Great Spirit stop them? Doesn't the Spirit care about us, too?

 

BEAR

We are all a part of the Great Spirit, even Men. The Spirit loves us all because we are a part of the whole. Our kinds learned long ago of nature, Men still have yet to learn. The Great Spirit needs us to teach Men of their wrong doings and we have been asked to sacrifice ourselves for that purpose. If we follow the Spirit, we shall be rewarded. If Men fail to learn from our example, they shall be punished.

 

SEAL

It's hard not to hate them.

 

WOLF

It's difficult not to want to punish them myself.

 

PUFFIN

It's tough not to insult and speak badly of those stupid Men.

 

BEAR

The Great Spirit loves all the children. But, Men need a lot more nurturing than other kinds. We must help them to become our brothers and sisters, and then they too can take their place in nature.

 

WOLF

(Sniffs)

I smell Men. We must go.

 

SEAL

Home?

 

PUFFIN

Or South?

(Pause. All look at BEAR)

 

BEAR

If there is a place without the danger of Men, I must go there.

 

WOLF

I will go, too.

 

PUFFIN

It's South for me.

 

SEAL

(Pause)

I have no home, anymore. I'll go along.

 

WOLF

(Leading them off R)

They're coming. Hurry.

(Lights fade to black)

 

Scene 9

 

(Lights come up on an empty stage. PUFFIN comes

on from off R)

 

PUFFIN

(Points out at audinece)

Everyone, come quick!

 

SEAL

(Enters)

What is it, Puffin?

(Looks out)

Wow.

 

BEAR

(Comes on)

Look at all those lights.

 

WOLF

(Comes on last. Disgusted)

It's a city.

 

SEAL

A what?

 

WOLF

The habitat of Men.

 

PUFFIN

(In awe)

I've never seen anything like it.

 

BEAR

(Distastefully)

It smells like nothing I've even smelt before.

 

WOLF

I've seen places like this before. The land is either torn, converted, of covered. Everything is dirty and smelly. Nothing can live there except Men.

 

SEAL

(Growing scared)

There are so many Men. Are we safe here?

 

PUFFIN

(Excited)

Snap out of it everyone, it's beautiful. Just look at it. So many shiny things, it's fun to look at.

 

BEAR

The air is dirty. It's hard to breath.

 

SEAL

My eyes hurt. They're almost burning.

 

WOLF

It's a bad place. The Great Spirit has been forgotten here.

 

BEAR

This place is unnatural.

 

PUFFIN

It's glorious!

 

WOLF

Is this the place you told us about?

 

PUFFIN

Yes.

 

BEAR

This can't be it. You said there were no Men.

 

WOLF

I see quite a few.

 

PUFFIN

Inside this place, the city, is the haven we seek.

 

BEAR

How can such a place exist among so many Men?

 

WOLF

You must be mistaken.

 

PUFFIN

We have to find it. It's there, I can feel it. We've traveled to far to turn back, now.

 

SEAL

I don't want to go there. I'm scared.

 

WOLF

We can't go prancing around a city, Puffin. It's too dangerous.

 

BEAR

Wolf is right, Puffin. We can't just deliver ourselves to them. We'll have nothing to protect ourselves with. No place to hide. They've even found ways to get us in our homes. How can we survive in their's?

 

SEAL

I want to go home.

 

PUFFIN

We have to go on! We're almost there!

 

WOLF

You want to risk our lives for something that might not even be there.

 

BEAR

You're not even sure this wonderful new home is in the city.

 

PUFFIN

I know it is. I'm sure of it.

 

BEAR

But you're not positive.

 

PUFFIN

It's a risk I'm willing to take.

 

BEAR

I don't know, Puffin. I don't think it's safe.

 

WOLF

I will go.

 

BEAR

(Surprised)

What?

 

PUFFIN

Really?

 

WOLF

But, I go alone.

 

PUFFIN

Ah, gee wizz. Come on. I wanna go.

 

BEAR

(To WOLF)

I can't let you do that.

 

WOLF

I'll go and search for Puffin's dream place. If it is there, I'll return and take you all safely to it.

 

BEAR

Are you sure?

 

WOLF

No arguments. I and I alone will take the risk.

(Starts to exit L)

Farewell, my friends.

 

BEAR

May the Great Spirit be with you.

 

PUFFIN

(Pouting)

I wanna go. But no, Wolf wants all the glory to himself.

(Wanders downstage, squats, and watches happily

out at audience)

 

SEAL

Will Wolf be okay?

 

BEAR

I hope so.

(Pause)

 

SEAL

The city scares me. It's so big and dirty.

 

BEAR

Why would any creature do that to the land? I've been alive a long time, experienced many things, but this I don't understand.

 

PUFFIN

I can't wait until Wolf returns. I'm so excited.

 

SEAL

(Aside to BEAR)

How can he admire that?

 

BEAR

He's lived his dream of finding a perfect land for so long, he can't see what's really before him.

 

PUFFIN

Oh, I see it, Bear. I see the Men's pig sty. But, I also know that the greatest treasures can be found in the most unlikely places.

 

BEAR

I hope you're right.

(Yawns)

I'm tired. I'm going to sleep.

 

SEAL

I'm too frightened to sleep. I'll keep watch.

 

PUFFIN

I'm too excited to sleep. I'll stay up with you, Seal.

 

BEAR

May as well stay up, too. I probably couldn't sleep with this awful smell anyway.

(They gather together and look out at the

audience. PUFFIN is happy. SEAL is afraid. BEAR

is sad and worried. Lights fade to black)

 

Scene 10

 

(Lights come up on the three animals asleep. WOLF

rushes on from off L)

 

WOLF

(Scared)

Everyone wake up!

 

BEAR

What is it?

 

SEAL

What happened?

 

PUFFIN

What's with you?

 

WOLF

Men! They're coming!

 

BEAR

They're after you?

 

WOLF

I think I may have thrown them off my trail.

 

PUFFIN

What about the city?

 

WOLF

It's a horrible place. There are many Men, all heartless and evil.

 

PUFFIN

What about the haven we came here for?

 

BEAR

Is it there?

 

WOLF

(Angrily)

It's there, all right.

 

SEAL

It is?

 

PUFFIN

It's there! We've found it at last!

(Dances around)

 

WOLF

Puffin, stop.

 

PUFFIN

(Hopping about)

We've found it! We've found it!

 

WOLF

(Grabs him)

Puffin! Listen to me!

 

PUFFIN

What? What's wrong, Wolf?

 

WOLF

All the animals are in cages. They can't move around and go where they want to. They're condemned to stay in a little space, made up to look like your homeland.

 

BEAR

Confined delight.

 

WOLF

The animals are fed a lot and they act happy, but it's not natural. They seem like toys for Men's amusement. They're even trained to do tricks for them. It's humiliating.

 

PUFFIN

That can't be right.

 

WOLF

It is, Puffin! They've become a bunch of brain washed freaks!

(Gun shot off L)

Men! They're getting closer! I thought I lost them.

 

BEAR

Hurry! Run for the trees!

(SEAL and PUFFIN rush off R. WOLF hesitates)

Come on, Wolf!

 

WOLF

Go on without me. I'll lead them away so you can escape.

 

BEAR

I won't leave you behind.

 

WOLF

Don't argue. Better me than all of us. Now, go!

 

BEAR

Good-bye, my friend.

 

WOLF

Get going!

(BEAR exits. To an empty stage)

I'll say hello to the Great Spirit for you.

(Rushes off L)

Come on, Men! Show me what you're made of!

(Lights fade to black)

 

Scene 11

 

(Lights come up on PUFFIN, BEAR, and SEAL looking

out at audience. They are back home)

 

SEAL

Our homeland seems small since we traveled so far.

 

PUFFIN

I'm sorry I led you there.

 

BEAR

We got caught up in your dream as much as you did. All of us longed for a place free of Men.

 

PUFFIN

We lost Fox and Wolf. I can never replace those lives.

 

BEAR

You don't have to, Puffin. They died following a dream.

 

PUFFIN

A false dream.

 

BEAR

But, a beautiful one.

 

SEAL

If only it had been true.

 

PUFFIN

Instead it was a nightmare. The smell, the noise, and thousands of Men. The arm pit of nature.

(Pause)

I don't see why you don't hate me after all that.

 

SEAL

We can't hate you for trying to lead us to a better place. Men made that fake homeland Wolf saw. Anything touched by Men, no matter how good it sounds, seems to turn bad.

 

PUFFIN

Wow, that's quite a mouthful for someone your age.

 

SEAL

Long trips make you grow fast.

(They notice BEAR is sad)

 

PUFFIN

You still look so sad, Bear.

 

SEAL

Aren't you glad to be home?

 

BEAR

I sit here and smell that black liquid in the sea, that has been left behind. It saddens me to think no where on this Earth has been left untouched by Men.

 

PUFFIN

Then, again. Maybe a little farther South there just might be...

 

SEAL

Puffin.

 

PUFFIN

Sorry.

 

SEAL

(Looking out)

Hey, look. Some Men are coming.

 

PUFFIN

Oh, no. Not again.

 

SEAL

They're cleaning up the black junk.

 

PUFFIN

Well, sort of.

 

SEAL

They're trying.

 

PUFFIN

The Women must have made the Men come clean up their mess.

 

SEAL

Hurray for Women!

 

BEAR

It appears someone cares enough to make them clean it up.

 

PUFFIN

Maybe they'll be sure to be more careful next time or they'll have to go through this again.

 

SEAL

Is there still hope, Bear?

 

BEAR

Maybe. If enough Men start caring, If not, we're doomed.

 

SEAL

They better start caring...

(Softly)

or none of us will be left.

 

BEAR

For our sake and theirs, they'd better watch what they do.

 

PUFFIN

Or they'll have to answer to me.

(Starts shadow boxing at invisible opponents,

trips and falls flat on his face)

 

BEAR

Good thing we have Puffin to protect us.

 

SEAL

What would we do without him?

 

PUFFIN

(Gets up and flexes his muscles)

You'd shrivel up and die, I suppose.

(Boxes some more as the lights fade to black.

Silence. In darkness the howl of a wolf is heard)

 

END OF PLAY