BOB MORANE

BOB MORANE

THE SWORD OF THE PALADIN Final Version A HENRI VERNES COLLECTION SCRIPT: GENEVIEVE LEFEBVRE MAIN AUTHOR: RICHARD RIEL PRODUCTION: CACTUS ANIMATION

ACT 1 SEQ. 01 EXT/NIGHT/SKY OVER FRANCE The bare trees are blowing in the wind. Pan up toward the stormy sky. Violent rain, lightning, thunder, dark clouds. Tearing through the space-time continuum, a flying saucer arrives from another era. It hovers on screen for a moment and then takes off, as the camera pans. SEQ. 02 EXT/NIGHT/MORANE’S CASTLE IN DORDOGNE A powerful bolt of lightning rips across the sky, lighting up a rather dilapidated Roman castle. The front of the castle has been restored. There is a plaque on one wall that reads: MAUREGARD. Torrents of rain falls on the main road, which is lined with street lights. The moats have all been filled with flowers. A luxurious Jaguar is parked in the inner courtyard. Behind it are outbuildings, which appear to be in ruins, and a chapel built on a promontory. A lit up window that gives onto the chapel reveals BILL’s enormous silhouette, as he paces in front of the window. 1. BILL (voice off screen) This is a strange place, Commander! SEQ. 03 INT/NIGHT/LIVING ROOM OF MORANE’S CASTLE IN DORDOGNE Close-up of two empty steel hooks anchored in the chimney. A set of hands (BOB’s) try to place a sword on the hooks. EPISODE TITLE: Paladin’s Sword Cut to BILL holding a partly eaten apple, as he leans on a window sill. He frowns as he watches the downpour. 2. BILL (grumbling) With this deluge, we can’t even go fishing! I’ll turn into a fish if this rain keeps up! Pan across the room. The room is cozy, yet very masculine. There’s a fire crackling in the fireplace, a silver samovar on a pearly coffee table and an oriental rug covering the marble tiling. There are a number of antique weapons hanging above the fireplace, surrounding the Mauregard coats of arms sculpted in the stone. What remains of a sumptuous dinner has been left on a long mahogany table and a highly sophisticated sound system is playing the “Goldberg Variations.” BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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Stop the camera on BOB holding a Cossack’s sword, which clearly does not fit in its intended spot on the chimney. 3. BOB (mumbling) I wonder what was here before . . . BILL, who is in a foul mood, resumes pacing, his hands behind his back. 4. BILL We can’t even walk around. That would be almost as much fun as wading through a sewer. All we need are ghosts and you’d swear we were in Scotland! 5. BOB (mockingly) Now that you mention it, people say there is a ghost here at Mauregard. 6. BILL (suddenly attentive) You can’t be serious, Commander. You’re pulling my leg, right? 7. BOB (continuing, trying to act serious) They say that YSABEL of Mauregard, the first chatelaine, was unjustly burned at the stake for allegedly practising witchcraft. On nights like this, she comes back to haunt the chapel . . . 8. BILL (brusquely) You should tear down that damned chapel. It gives me the creeps. BILL gives BOB a dirty look and goes back to looking out the window, as a white light near the chapel suddenly grabs his attention. On this stormy night, the view is rather gloomy. BILL takes a step back in fear. 9. MORANE (approaching BILL, using the same tone) They also say that on stormy nights, the chatelaine haunts the Landes, seeking justice. 10. BILL (having trouble swallowing his apple) You shouldn’t joke about stuff like that, Commander. You never know . . . BOB joins BILL by the window. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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11. BOB In the Middle Ages, they burned people at the stake for all sorts of reasons. If they were even slightly suspicious, that was it! It’s no wonder the countess’ ghost can’t rest in peace! 12. BILL (nervously) You’re making me nervous with your ghost stories! 13. BOB (still teasing) I must say, that was a strange era. After all, YSABEL of Mauregard may very well have been a witch . . . When I think that she used to live in this castle . . . I sure would like to have met her. 14. BILL (tossing his apple core into the fire) Oh yeah, not me! Just then, a flash of lightning causes a power failure throughout the castle, leaving our two characters in the dark. BILL is startled. Through the window, he notices a delicate white form with long flowing hair glowing brightly. The twisted silhouette appears overcome with pain. (This is not a hallucination; the shadows are playing tricks.) It is, in fact, a stunted tree that has been struck by lightning, but BILL takes a step back. 15. BILL Did you see that, Commander? Morane turns to look at the courtyard, but the tree is no longer visible in the rain. He starts to laugh. 16. MORANE Seeing things, my dear, Bill! Your Scottish blood is playing tricks on you . . . He heads toward a sideboard, inviting BILL to join him. Why don’t you help me find some candles! 17. BILL (staring out the window, in search of his earlier vision) I swear, Commander. I saw . . . BILL stops, stunned. This time, his huge silhouette is lit up by a light shining into the window. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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BOB reacts. He leans over to look out the window. In the castle courtyard, a circle of light hovers above the ground. Bright yellow smoke rings appear in the reflections of light. An oval shape appears in the light. 18. BILL What on earth . . . BOB turns to BILL, his eyes shining brightly. 19. BOB Let’s go have a look. SEQ. 04 EXT/NIGHT/MORANE’S CASTLE IN DORDOGNE/INNER COURTYARD The circle of light glows faintly. Soaked to the bones, BOB and BILL approach the circle and recognize a silver dome-shaped object. A side door open, revealing a lit up control panel. BOB nods. 20. BOB I have a feeling that our friend, Colonel Graigh, has paid us a little visit. Is there any mutton left? BILL lowers his head, ashamed.

21. BILL Uh, well . . . BOB looks up, rolling his eyes. 22. BOB I see . . . SEQ. 05 INT/NIGHT/GRAIGH’S SHUTTLE

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BOB and BILL are inside the deserted shuttle. The control panel in one corner of the shuttle is very sophisticated. The shuttle looks like it was designed by Anton Furst. (He designed the set for Batman.) Two cycling helmets, each with a magnetic strip (see “Les chasseurs de dinosaures”) are lying on a small pearly table . . . 23. BILL Graigh? No answer: Hey, there’s nobody here, Commander! While BILL explores the cabin, BOB takes one of the helmets. 24. BOB Look! It’s the time travel shuttle. BILL looks suspiciously at the helmets. BOB examines one up close. SEQ. 06 INT/NIGHT/THE CHAPEL On a small portable monitor, we see BOB examining the helmet’s magnetic strip. We see that the tape is actually the eye of a camera. A man wearing a futuristic looking grey suit is standing on a tomb, staring at the screen. We recognize GRAIGH’s blond hair and clever look. His navigator, TED KURTZ, takes his turn to watch BOB’s image. 25. KURTZ (watching at the image of BILL scratching his head, looking uncertain) Do you think they can do it, Colonel? It’s quite dangerous to leave that type of device in just anyone’s hands. 26. GRAIGH (looking at KURTZ) I don’t think that Commander Morane and Bill Ballantine are just anyone. On screen, Bill vigorously shakes the helmet, causing the image to skip. BILL puts the helmet down on the table, focusing the image on BOB, leaning over the control panel. Cut to KURTZ and GRAIGH. 27. KURTZ (concerned) BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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That machine has infinite possibilities. Few would resist the temptation to use it for their own, possibly evil purposes. I think you’re taking a huge risk, Colonel Graigh. 28. GRAIGH (nodding) I’ve received a report on those two. I think we can take the chance of leaving them alone with the machine. 29. KURTZ (giving up) I couldn’t disagree more, but you’re going to do what you want anyway! I hope those two won’t disappoint you. SEQ. 07 INT/NIGHT/TIME TRAVEL SHUTTLE BOB is standing in front of what looks like a slot machine. He pushes a signal light. A series of dates begin to scroll on the control panel. 30. BILL So, Commander, how does this thing work?

31. BOB See these dates, Bill? This little gem doesn’t only travel through time. Look at this map. I’ve never seen anything so precise! 32. BILL (fascinated) You mean we could travel through time and space? 33. BOB (equally excited) Exactly! What do you think about taking a little trip? BILL jumps at the chance. 34. BILL A little action sure wouldn’t hurt! BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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The two put on their helmets. BOB pushes the signal light: 35. BOB I think I’ve found an era that will suit you perfectly, old boy. 36. BILL (suddenly suspicious) Oh, really? BOB selects a particular time and place on the control panel. MAUREGARD, Jan. 1375 The shuttle explodes into action. SEQ. 08 INT/MORNING/THE HERMIT’S DEN We find ourselves in a laboratory in the Middle Ages. There are test tubes, retorts and instruments of torture inside the dark and cluttered space. Drawings reminiscent of Da Vinci are hanging on the walls of the shabby dwelling. A man with a stern profile and dressed entirely in grey is leaning over a device for quartering, which he has just finished adjusting. A huge wolf, grimacing in his sleep, is lying at the man’s feet. A wide shot reveals five or six other wolves sleeping in the room. The man mumbles to himself. 37. HERMIT They won’t be able to ignore me for much longer. One day I’ll get the recognition I deserve. Looking at the animal at his feet: When that day comes, you’ll dine at my table, my friend. An explosion of yellow light that sends a tremor through the den grabs the man’s attention. He is momentarily stunned, but makes his way toward the door. The yellow light is reflected in the man’s face. His pupils are abnormally small, like those of a wolf. SEQ. 09 EXT/MORNING/FOREST IN FRONT OF THE HERMIT’S DEN We see the shuttle in the faded morning light. BOB and BILL jump out of the shuttle and zip up their duffle coats. The day is grey and cold, the sky is cloudy and the atmosphere is eerie. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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BILL shivers. The two take a few steps away from the shuttle. 38. BILL Well, Commander, it’s a good thing we brought along these duffle coats. (concerned) We can’t see the castle anymore. 39. BOB It’s a few kilometers away, behind those trees. 40. BILL You sure this is the Middle Ages? BOB looks around. A crow flying overhead, caws eerily. The distant howling of wolves pierces the cold morning air. They start to walk. SEQ. 10 EXT/MORNING/EDGE OF THE WOODS The approaching sounds of howling wolves can be heard through the trees. BOB and BILL pick up the pace. The countryside and the outline of Mauregard castle on the distant horizon appear before them. INSERT of animals clearing a path through the bush, followed by the hermit’s shadow. BOB and BILL emerge from the woods and are suddenly surrounded by the wolves. 41. MORANE What a lovely welcoming committee. He quickly breaks off a huge branch. BILL does the same. They go back to back. 42. BILL Just look at these beasts! Not a single tooth missing! The wolves pounce on the two men. BILL and BOB swing their clubs. BOB cracks his over the head of one of the wolves, while BILL grabs another by the tail, spins it around and sends it flying into a tree trunk. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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They barely have time to take care of one animal when another come at them. BOB and BILL are as vicious as the wolves. Bones crack and one wolf runs off, howling in agony following one of BILL’s tremendous blows. Hiding behind a tree, the hermit takes in the action. BILL, his hands full with two wolves, doesn’t notice that a huge animal, the leader of the pack, is getting ready to jump him. At the last second, BOB throws himself in front of the animal for a vicious confrontation. BILL, his hands still full, cannot come to BOB’s rescue. 43. BILL Hang in there, Commander! The beast throws BOB to the ground. BOB slips his hand inside the animal’s mouth, but it manages to free itself and prepares to sink its teeth into BOB’s neck. Man and beast stare into each other’s eyes. 44. BOB Filthy animal! The animal lunges at BOB’s throat.


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ACT 2 SEQ. 11 EXT/MORNING/EDGE OF THE WOODS Suddenly, the animal hesitates, opening its jaws wide to howl. An arrow hits it in the neck. BOB hurries to free himself. The wolf gets a second arrow right in the heart. Another arrow hits the last wolf, which was about to attack BILL. Back to back, BOB and BILL sigh with relief, looking around to see where the arrows came from. BOB and BILL get up and find a very young cavalier riding on a pawing stallion. The young man is accompanied by an old one-eyed servant, also on horseback. The two riders approach BOB and BILL. BOB greets them with a nod. 45. BOB You have done us a great favour, kind sirs. Thank you so much. The young man removes his hood. A long trail of golden hair falls on the damsel’s shoulders. We then notice her feminine shapeliness beneath the cape. She is both delicate and sensual. BOB and BILL are stunned to discover that the skilled archer is a beautiful young woman. BOB is completely mesmerized by the countess’ green eyes as she gazes at BOB, appearing troubled: 46. COUNTESS I am Countess YSABEL of Mauregard. This is GUILLAUME, my servant. 47. BILL (whispering to BOB) It’s the witch, Commander! Let’s get out of here! BOB gives him an annoyed look. 48. BOB (so as to be heard only by BILL) Oh, BILL! 49. COUNTESS (becoming impatient) You are trespassing on my land, gentlemen. To whom do I owe the honour? BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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BOB apologizes immediately. 50. BOB Sir Bob Morane, at your service. I am on a pilgrimage, Countess. 51. COUNTESS (examining BOB and BILL’s clothing) Oh, so you’re a knight, are you? 52. BOB (nodding and avoiding the issue) This is my faithful companion, Bill Ballantine. 53. COUNTESS (with sudden disgust) An Englishman! We are at war against the English! 54. BILL (with a dignified tone) Pardon me, Countess, but I am Scottish. Surely you are aware that since William Wallace, my countrymen have fought relentlessly against the English. 55. BOB (whispering to BILL) I didn’t know you were a history buff . . . 56. BILL (out of the side of his mouth) Oh yes, Commander. I have both brains and brawn! 57. COUNTESS (angrily) You are no more knights than I am a nun . . . Her smile lights up her entire face: But you seem like valiant men and I offer you my hospitality. BOB and BILL exchange glances. 58. BOB (whispering) She’s no more a witch than either of us . . . SEQ. 12 EXT/DAY/EDGE OF THE WOODS BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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Kneeling next to the remains of his favourite pet, the hermit gathers the animal tenderly in his coat and begins to howl like a wolf. SEQ. 13 EXT/DAY/THE COUNTRYSIDE OUTSIDE MAUREGARD CASTLE The small group arrives in front of Mauregard. Far from 20th century ruins, the castle stands majestically at dusk. BOB smiles, admiring his castle. 59. BOB What a beautiful castle . . . 60. COUNTESS (turning her head slightly to look at him) Welcome to my home, gentlemen! 61. BILL Have you ever thought of lining the road with street lights? You can’t see a darn thing! There’s no time for any further exchange of information. Four bandits jump out of a bush and move toward the small group menacingly. The countess and GUILLAUME exchange looks of concern. 62. BOB Expecting visitors, Countess? The bandits rush toward the group. GUILLAUME takes out his hunting cutlass and hands it to BILL. BOB joins him. YSABEL tosses him a sling. 63. YSABEL (to BOB) Take this! She immediate loads her crossbow. GUILLAUME does the same. 64. BOB Watch the rear! BILL forges ahead, weapon in hand. He duels with one of the bandits, sending him rolling on the ground. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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BOB uses the sling skillfully, hitting one of the bandits with a single well-placed blow. He is attacked by a second one. The countess shoots an arrow into the bandit’s backside, saving BOB once again. 65. BOB Nice shot! The last bandit jumps BILL. BILL holds him with one hand and cuffs him with the other. The poor simp falls to the ground in a heap. BILL turns to the countess, laughing: 66. BILL Another job done! BOB picks up a red sword left behind by one of the bandits. He turns to the countess. 67. BOB Are you familiar with these coats of arms? The countess nods, looking somber. 68. COUNTESS They belong to my cousins NORBERT, OSTREBERT and SIGBERT, the Lords of Hénaurmerie. 69. BILL (to BOB) They sure have a strange way of showing affection in this family . . . 70. COUNTESS I’ll explain. But first, let’s have something to eat. BILL’s face lights up. 71. BILL What a wonderful idea, Countess! To BOB: She’s not so bad for a witch! BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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SEQ. 14 INT/END OF DAY/HÉNAURMERIE CASTLE Three obese lords, NORBERT, SIGBERT and OSTREBERT, Lords of Hénaurmerie, are gorging themselves on a huge dinner of mutton, roast and fowl. Suddenly, the hermit appears: 72. NORBERT You again, hermit. What now? 73. HERMIT Just wanted to tell you that two strangers have arrived. 74. OSTREBERT (with disdain) It wouldn’t be the first time. Why bother us in the middle of dinner with such nonsense? 75. HERMIT They came aboard a strange machine . . . 76. SIGBERT Notice that you’re the only one who seems to care, poor bastard! The three brothers laugh heartily. The hermit raises his head in humiliation, his eyes gleaming with anger. He bangs his fist on the table with rage. 77. NORBERT (glaring) Mind your manners, hermit. Just because our father begat you one drunken night does not make you our equal. You are still a bastard. 78. HERMIT (hiding his shame) I saw Countess de Mauregard. The three brothers look at each other, amused. 79. OSTREBERT That arrogant thing! One day, something horrible will happen to her. 80. NORBERT BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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Yes, we will have her declared a witch and burned at the stake . . . 81. SIGBERT (delighted) And since we’re her cousins, we’ll inherit her castle, her land and her right to collect taxes . . . 82. HERMIT She welcomed the two strangers, who arrived in a strange machine. The three lords raise a curious eyebrow. Having piqued their curiosity, he continues: I could help you to condemn her! 83. NORBERT (smiling glibly) We may not even have to go to such lengths . . . the countess could meet with a horrible death while returning home . . . 84. OSTREBERT (pretending to look upset) What a shame! So young, so beautiful . . .

85. SIGBERT Should nothing bad happen, you could help lead her to the stake. Gnawing on a beef rib: Perhaps we could then ennoble you, brother dear. The two others nod. NORBERT shows the hermit the door, with a peremptory gesture. 86. NORBERT But for now, out, you Bastard! There’s work to be done! The hermit leaves. The three brothers look at each other in agreement and continue their feast. SEQ. 15 INT/END OF DAY/WEAPONS ROOM OF MAUREGARD CASTLE (BOB’S LIVING ROOM) BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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The guests visit the castle’s main room, decorated in a style of the Middle Ages. The floor is made of stone and the furnishings are elegant, yet spare. 87. BILL (whispering to BOB) I prefer wall-to-wall carpeting myself . . . Suspended above the fireplace, in the exact spot mentioned in Scene 2, is a finely shaped sword, decorated with precious gems, which catches BOB’s eye. He approaches the fireplace, lightly touching the sword, hanging on its steel hooks. 88. BOB This sword is quite prominently displayed . . . 89. YSABEL You have good reason to admire it. It belonged to my father, Hubert de Mauregard. It was handed down several generations. This sword was used by Charlemagne himself during his battles.

90. BOB (smiling) So, who were these men who attacked us earlier? SEQ. 16 EXT/END OF DAY/A CLEARING IN THE FOREST Wearing a long coat, the hermit approaches the time travel shuttle. SEQ. 17 INT/END OF DAY/WEAPONS ROOM OF MAUREGARD CASTLE (BOB’S LIVING ROOM) 91. YSABEL The Lords of Hénaurmerie are distant cousins. They have always wanted my land. They are spreading rumours that I am a witch. 92. BILL (somewhat concerned) And . . . is it true? BOB gives him a dirty look. The countess looks indignant. 93. YSABEL (furious) BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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I live alone. I am interested in astronomy. I can use a crossbow as well as any archer and I happen not to like embroidery. Does that make me a witch? BILL lowers his head, ashamed. 94. YSABEL The Lords of Hénaurmerie poisoned my harvest so that people would believe that my land was cursed. Influenced by my cousins gold riches, the Archbishop of Périgueux refuses to protect me. She lowers her head, feeling overwhelmed: My cousins will do anything to prove that I am possessed. That way, they can have me led to the stake and take all my belongings. 95. BOB (pacing, indignant) We won’t let them get away with it! 96. YSABEL You don’t know them. They are very powerful and will stop at nothing to get what they want. GUILLAUME enters the room, holding dishes, which he places on the table. 97. YSABEL Come. Tell me stories about your homeland. It will take my mind off things . . . SEQ. 18 INT/END OF DAY/THE SHUTTLE The hermit examines the inside of the shuttle. He is both fascinated and frightened. He approaches the control panel cautiously. He brings a trembling hand closer, his face lit up. SEQ. 19 EXT/MORNING/IN FRONT OF MAUREGARD CASTLE Accompanied by a few somber-looking henchmen, the three lords of Hénaurmerie stand in front of Mauregard castle. Forbidding GUILLAUME to follow, YSABEL approaches her cousins, looking elegant in a flowing fur-trimmed gown. 98. OSTREBERT BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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Hear ye, hear ye . . . We have learned that you are housing two sorcerers! 99. YSABEL That’s false! They are noblemen, like yourselves! 100. OSTREBERT We demand a tournament as proof! 101. SIGBERT Yes! Yes! Let God be the judge! 102. NORBERT The two strangers against us, the Lords of Hénaurmerie! 103. YSABEL But there are three of you, and only two of them! Behind her, BOB’s voice echoes, strong and firm. 104. BOB We accept the challenge, Countess! YSABEL turns swiftly, touched. BILL leans over to BOB, teasing him. 105. BILL (mischievously) I think she’s cast a spell on you, Commander! BOB smiles. BILL shakes his head, resigned and amused. 106. BILL All right, all right! 107. NORBERT With God as our witness, the tournament will be held at sundown tomorrow! SEQ. 20 INT/END OF DAY/SHUTTLE BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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The hermit is holding a ray gun (SEE CHASSEURS DE DINOSAURES), which fires destructive beams of red light. In front of the open door, the hermit touches the gun, wondering what it is and how it works. He accidentally pulls the trigger. It fires a beam of red light, instantly destroying a tree in its path. An evil grin crosses the hermit’s face. 108. HERMIT I have the proof I need. I will finally be declared legitimate. SEQ. 21 EXT/DAY/TURRET AT MAUREGARD CASTLE BILL and BOB are having a discussion atop one of the Mauregard turrets. From their vantage point, they see the young countess headed toward the chapel, holding a bouquet of flowers, her long flowing hair shining in the morning light. She places the flowers on her father’s tomb. 109. BILL So, what do you and I know about tournaments, Commander? 110. BOB (casually) You’re not planning to parade in front of those three hulking masses?! 111. BILL But, I’ve never ridden on horseback dressed like a tin can! 112. BOB (watching the countess below) We can’t let the Countess down, Bill. BILL follows BOB’s gaze. A falcon circles above the countess. She extends her hand and the bird lands. BILL sighs. 113. BILL BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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You and your damsels in distress . . . GUILLAUME’s voice interrupts them: 114. GUILLAUME Allow me to assist. BOB and BILL look at each other. BILL raises his arms. He has no choice but to go ahead. SEQ. 22 INT/END OF DAY/IN FRONT OF MAUREGARD CASTLE In the middle of the field, near the castle wall, YSABEL stands alone, looking tense. Tents have been erected at either end of the field, one waving the Hénaurmerie banner and the other, the Mauregard banner. A group of peasants have gathered at the sidelines, awaiting the start of the tournament. SEQ. 23 INT/END OF DAY/MAUREGARD TENT Assisted by GUILLAUME, BILL and BOB finish putting on their heavy armour. 115. BILL I can hardly breathe in this tin can, Commander! 116. BOB You’ll be glad you’re wearing it when you get hit by a lance! 117. BILL No more dress-up after this tournament! SEQ. 24 EXT/END OF DAY/IN FRONT OF MAUREGARD CASTLE BOB and BILL leave the tent on their battle horses. They look dashing. BOB is riding a black horse and BILL, an enormous chestnut horse. At the opposite end of the field, the Lords of Hénaurmerie have already mounted their horses. BOB approaches YSABEL and extends the tip of his lance. She takes off her scarf and ties it to the shaft of the lance. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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The motionless crowd watches attentively. BOB turns to face NORBERT waiting at the other end. The men start charging. BOB’s lance strikes NORBERT in the shield. NORBERT is stunned but remains on his horse. The two opponents take up their positions once again, as the crowd murmurs. BOB charges toward NORBERT once again. He dodges the attack, throwing BOB off balance. BOB has to grab onto his horse’s mane to avoid being thrown. BILL sees BOB regain his balance. The crowd murmurs admiringly. The Lords of Hénaurmerie laugh. 118. OSTREBERT We’ll completely massacre them! YSABEL, alone near the tent, is fraught with concern. BOB charges toward NORBERT. It’s a dramatic blow and NORBERT, thrown off balance, hits the dirt. YSABEL sighs with relief. BILL laughs to himself and gives Morane the thumbs up as he approaches. Discouraged, NORBERT has trouble getting up. It’s BILL’s turn. He spurs his war horse. The crowd cries out disapprovingly. At the other end of the field, SIGBERT and OSTREBERT have mounted their horses. Side by side, shoulder to shoulder, they form an impenetrable mass and charge toward BILL. The crowd cries out: It’s unfair! It’s unjust! It’s scandalous! YSABEL raises her arm in protest. 119. YSABEL The rules have been disobeyed! Stop the tournament! But her words come too late. On one side, we see BILL Ballantine’s hulking metal mass. On the other side, the doubly obese mass made up of the Lords of Hénaurmerie. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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BOB murmurs, ready to intervene: 120. BOB Crush those tubs of lard, BILL, old boy! Just as the Scotsman’s lance is about to strike SIGBERT’s shield, Ballantine lets out a ferocious yell that seems to offset his aim. He hits NORBERT at an angle, causing him to catapult off his horse into his brother, who is also sent flying. The two hit the ground in a thundering crash. They roll over one another and OSTREBERT finds himself on top of SIGBERT, flattening him. 121. NORBERT (furious) For God’s sake! Such power can only come from the devil himself! Sound FX: Laughs and applause from the crowd. BILL prances back toward Morane. He tosses his helmet with relief. 122. BILL There! That’s much better! I was starting to feel rather cramped in there! The Lords of Hénaurmerie move to the middle of the field. 123. NORBERT (addressing the crowd) It’s pure witchcraft. That type of power can only come from a spell. The countess is housing sorcerers! We have the proof! The crowd begins to murmur . . . BOB and BILL look at each other, perplexed. What proof? Suddenly suspicious, they join YSABEL, still on horseback. The hermit moves to the middle of the field, handing an object to NORBERT. Our two friends recognize GRAIGH’s ray gun and become concerned. 124. NORBERT (to BOB and BILL) Does this object belong to you, gentlemen? BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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BOB hesitates for a moment, but admits the truth.

125. BOB Yes, but . . . NORBERT interrupts by demonstrating the ray gun’s capabilities to the crowd. The crowd stands back. The pistol fires a beam of red light, destroying a boulder. The cries intensify: “Death to all witches!”


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ACT 3 SEQ. 25 EXT/NIGHT/MAUREGARD CASTLE The drawbridge closes on BOB, BILL and YSABEL. SEQ. 26 EXT/NIGHT/MAUREGARD CASTLE Outside, the three lords cry out. Two of their henchmen are holding GUILLAUME captive. 126. SIGBERT We will guard the castle until you give yourselves up, sorcerers! 127. NORBERT You’ll have to give in to hunger at some point! The hermit approaches the three brothers, holding a parchment. The three lords look at him with surprise. 128. SIGBERT What’s this? 129. HERMIT I helped you, as agreed. You must now sign this document, making me your equal. The three brothers look at each other, amused. 130. NORBERT The witchcraft demonstration is now over. We no longer have any use for you, bastard. 131. HERMIT But, it’s thanks to me that the demonstration was a success. I’m the one who found the weapon!

132. OSTREBERT Say . . . you also have witchcraft tendencies. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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He tears up the parchment. Get out of here before I accuse you of acting as an accomplice! The hermit runs off, furious, as his step brothers jeer. SEQ. 27 INT/NIGHT/LIVING ROOM OF MAUREGARD CASTLE YSABEL paces in the living room, unable to stay still. 133. YSABEL There is only one person who can help . . . the king. He knows me; he’ll listen to me . . . She stops suddenly, wringing her hands anxiously: But how can I reach him? He’s so far from here. 134. BOB Is there any way of leaving the castle without being spotted? 135. YSABEL Well, there’s a secret passage . . . She stares at BOB for a moment. But I can’t let you take that risk. You’ve already done so much. 136. BOB (objecting, making a sweeping gesture) Just give me something so that the king will recognize me and I’ll take care of the rest. 137. BILL What about me, Commander? 138. BOB Both of you will have to stay behind to defend the castle! YSABEL heads toward the fireplace and sticks her hand in the ash. She lifts a ring, opening a trap hidden in the floor of the huge fireplace. BOB and BILL look at one another. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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139. BOB This castle is just one surprise after another! 140. BILL (amused, not wanting YSABEL to overhear) You shouldn’t have bought it then! BOB heads toward the trap and starts to lower himself into the opening, which looks like an endless black hole. 141. COUNTESS Be careful, BOB. 142. BOB (almost tenderly) Don’t worry, YSABEL. I’ll be back soon. From BOB’s POV, we see the abyss into which he is about to lower himself. He grabs onto metal bars anchored in the stone. BOB begins to descend and disappears into the night. The flame from a candelabra lights up BILL’s face, as he joins the countess. She looks worried. 143. COUNTESS He’s never make it on time. 144. BILL Sir Morane has resources that you couldn’t begin to imagine, Countess. She turns and looks at him inquisitively. SEQ. 28 INT/NIGHT/SHUTTLE In the middle of the night, BOB faces the shuttle controls. We see the shuttle take off suddenly (like in the beginning). A wandering beggar raises his head and falls to his knees in fear. SEQ. 29 EXT/NIGHT/MAUREGARD CASTLE BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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The Lords of Hénaurmerie and their bandits gather together. They have ladders and cable with them. NORBERT glances around: 145. NORBERT We’re ready for the attack! Two of the bandits begin to set up a ladder. We see the grimacing faces of SIGBERT, OSTERBERT and NORBERT. SEQ. 30 INT/DAWN/THE TENT OF KING CHARLES V Kneeling before the king, BOB awaits an answer. King CHARLES is overcome with emotion as he examines Hubert’s sword. His advisor is by his side, watching Morane closely. 146. KING CHARLES I recognize brave Hubert’s sword . . . And you say that his daughter is in danger, Sir? 147. BOB Yes Sire. Only your words can serve to free YSABEL of Mauregard from these felons. 148. KING CHARLES I know the Lords of Hénaurmerie. I suspect them of having plotted with the English to satisfy their own interests. I’ll help YSABEL.

149. ADVISOR But Sire! The trip is far too risky. You’ll be spotted immediately. The English have many enclaves along the road and want you dead. 150. KING CHARLES We’ll wear monks’ robes. 151. ADVISOR Your face is well known, Sire. They’ll recognize you! 152. BOB BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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Pardon my boldness, your highness, but there may be a more discreet way of traveling. King CHARLES and his advisor, looking curious, turn to BOB. SEQ. 31 INT/DAWN/SHUTTLE - EXT/FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE King CHARLES is seated next to BOB. They are dressed normally, except for the helmets. 153. KING CHARLES I can’t decide if you’re an angel or a devil, Sir Morane, but I trust you. BOB smiles. SEQ. 32 INT/MORNING/INNER COURTYARD OF MAUREGARD CASTLE Chained together, YSABEL and BILL are being led by the lords’ henchmen. The three lords laugh as they follow along. A stake has been erected in the Mauregard courtyard. Curious onlookers, the same peasants who witnessed the earlier battle, wait in silence. BILL, furious, struggles madly with his chains. 154. BILL Remove this cheap hardware, you windbags, or I’ll crush your skulls! BILL and YSABEL are tied to the stake. BILL is still wearing his full battle gear. YSABEL is wearing a long white gown. The crowd cries out: “Death to all witches!” The three lords and their henchmen stand in front of the stake, smiling. The executioner lights the stake and the flames start to lick BILL and YSABEL’s feet. Suddenly, a man jumps from the ramparts in spectacular fashion, knocking down the three Lords of Hénaurmerie, who try to block his path. It is, of course, BOB. BILL smiles, relieved. YSABEL cries out. BOB makes good use of Hubert’s sword. He fends off two bandits and cuts through BILL and YSABEL’s chains. 155. BILL (jumping down off the stake, clenching his fists) One more minute and I was would’ve been toast, Commander! BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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The three move away from the stake, which is now completely engulfed in flames. The lords’ supporters confront them, blocking their path. The crowd backs off. From the crowd, a monk with an imperious voice speaks up: 156. KING CHARLES I demand mercy for YSABEL de Mauregard and Sir Ballantine! 157. NORBERT (advancing) And who do you think you are, monk? The king reveals himself. The crowd recognizes the royal tonsure, as well as the king’s collar and the coat of arms embroidered on his breast plate. He looks dashing on his lively horse. His voice is most imposing. 158. CROWD It’s the king, it’s the king . . .

159. KING CHARLES Do you not recognize me, NORBERT? The three Lords of Hénaurmerie bow down immediately. 160. KING CHARLES I, CHARLES V of France and Navarre, hereby decree that this unjust condemnation of the Countess of Mauregard be revoked and that she no longer be importuned. Her father fought valiantly by my side and I owe him my life . . . He looks over the crowd with authority and points to the lords, with a harsh expression: Anyone who brings harm to his girl, YSABEL, brings harm to the king and will be severely punished. I have spoken! SEQ. 33 EXT/NIGHT/LIVING ROOM OF MAUREGARD CASTLE In the living room of the castle, BOB and BILL, wearing their duffle coats, bid farewell to YSABEL. BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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161. YSABEL How can I thank you? YSABEL approaches BILL and gently kisses his cheek. Petrified, BILL blushes like a young girl. YSABEL then hands Hubert’s sword to BOB. He objects. 162. YSABEL Please accept this gift. You are most worthy of it. BOB hesitates and looks at BILL, who nods. YSABEL places the sword in BOB’s hands. My father would’ve have wanted it this way. As he takes the sword, BOB’s hands brushes against YSABELS’s. The teary-eyed countess stares into the eyes of her hero. He kneels down quickly and brings her delicate hand to his lips. She trembles. Seeing BOB overcome with sentimentality, BILL pulls on his sleeve. 163. BILL Let’s go, Commander . . . They turn and quickly walk away. YSABEL brings her hand close to her heart and murmurs to herself. 164. YSABEL Farewell . . . BILL turns back, winking one last time. SEQ. 34 EXT/END OF DAY/DINING ROOM OF HÉNAURMERIE CASTLE The three lords arrive at home, crestfallen. They push open the enormous dining room door, mumbling. They are surprised to find the hermit seated at the table, enjoying a huge feast, his pack of wolves at his feet.


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The pack of wolves rise, eyes gleaming, baring their fangs, as the three lords enter. Behind them, the hermit grins wickedly. 165. HERMIT Welcome to family dinner, brothers! SEQ. 34 EXT/NIGHT/MAUREGARD CASTLE (20th century) The shuttle appears during the night. The rain has stopped and a full moon welcomes our travelers home. BOB’s Jaguar glistens under the street lights. INSERT: At the window, we see GRAIGH’s silhouette turn to KURTZ. 166. GRAIGH Sometimes, it pays to have confidence, KURTZ. END OF INSERT BILL leaves the shuttle holding the ray gun, followed by BOB. BILL looks at the street lights, the car and all the other signs of modern life, and happily exclaims: 167. BILL It’s good to be home, Commander! They go inside. SEQ. 36 INT/NIGHT/THE CASTLE (BOB’S LIVING ROOM) BOB and BILL enter the living room. BOB is holding Hubert’s sword and BILL, the ray gun, which he puts down on the table. Louis GRAIGH and Ted KURTZ are waiting for them at the window. A sumptuous leg of mutton and fries have been prepared and laid out on the table. A fire is roaring in the fireplace and the sound system is playing the same “Goldberg Variations.” GRAIGH smiles, gesturing for them to take their places. 168. GRAIGH BOB MORANE - Paladin’s Sword Script - Final Version - Geneviève Lefebvre Friday, October 18, 1996

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Glad to have you back, my friends. Did you have a good trip? 169. BOB Excellent, Colonel. Thanks for the invitation. GRAIGH smiles and nods. 170. GRAIGH Sorry I couldn’t warn you . . . Pointing to Ted: But I’d made a bet with my navigator, Ted KURTZ. In order for the bet to stand, I couldn’t tell you what was going to happen.

171. BILL So, how did it turn out? 172. GRAIGH Better than I could’ve hoped! BOB and BILL look at one another, bewildered. GRAIGH and KURTZ start to laugh. SEQ. 37 INT/NIGHT/BOB’S LIVING ROOM Close-up of the hooks above the fireplace. Two hands on screen place the sword in its rightful place.

THE END


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