The Story of Four Animals

Act II

Scene 4

(Lights up; It is the same scene as Act I, scene III; Milo enters stage right; Stops center stage)

Milo (Upset): I can't believe they lied to me. (Shaking his head; On his knees) They both lied to me. I mean it's crazy. Crystal's my mother, and Dodger is a thief! How could they do this to me.

(Crystal and Dodger catch up to him)

Crystal: Milo!

(Milo gets up and backs away; Facing them)

Milo (Angry; Hissing): Stay away from me!

Crystal: Just settle down Milo. Let Dodger and I lead you back home, the woods aren't safe at night.

Milo (Looking around): I know that. But there's still some light out, I'll be all right. I know my way home. And this is your territory Dodger so I'm not worried.

Dodger: Listen to Crystal Milo, she's right. I should know; I live out here. As you well know. Anyway, we should get you back; there are other packs besides mine that come out around this time to patrol and hunt. And they aren't too friendly. (Looking at him; Serious) Don't tell me you forgot what I taught you about the rival packs? (Milo nods) Then you should remember that they're always unpredictable and causing trouble.

Milo (Looking Down): I remember Dodger. (Looking at him) It may have been 7 years ago, but I haven't forgotten the lessons you taught me.

Dodger: (Smiling at him): Glad you remember.

Crystal: All right you two. Now look Milo, we're sorry for what we did. We know it was wrong keeping this from you, and that we should have told you sooner. It's never ok to lie; it's better to always tell the truth. No matter the consequences. We are both truly, truly, sorry. (Looking at Dodge) Right Dodger?

Dodger: I'm even more sorry; I let my pride and emotions get the better of me. I can only imagine what my father would say if he were here. I'm just so sorry for everything. (Looking down) Please forgive us. (Looking at him) Forgive me.

(Milo looks at both of them; Seeing how sad they are, he finally forgives them)

Milo (Sighs): Oh all right, I forgive you both. But please don't ever lie to me again! You really hurt me. Always tell the truth. Always.

Crystal: Understood. And believe you-me, we won't ever lie again. We'll try to be better.

Dodger (Raising a paw): Scouts honor. We will all be truthful from now on.

(They all hug; Bushes rustle offstage left; Milo, Crystal, and Dodger are alert; Three wild dogs come out of the bushes; Dodger and Crystal are both facing the intruders; Dodger growls threateningly and Crystal hisses; Milo behind them/scared)

Dodger (Surprised; Angry): Buster! What are you doing in my territory? I told you never to come back here. (Looking at the others) I see you also brought your beta dog Rocky, and one warrior with you. (Looking at the warrior) Hello Jet. How's your new pack working out for you?

Jet (slyly): I love my new pack Dodger. (Proud) I'm the top warrior dog in it!

Dodger: You may be the top warrior, but you'll always be a traitor to my pack. (Looking at Buster) Does Buster even know what you did?

Buster (Proud): I know. (Looking at Jet) He told me how he led a couple rouge dogs, and ambushed you and your two warriors when you were out on patrol, to try and kill you. (Looking back at Dodger) Pity they didn't succeed. Jet would have been much better leader than you. (Dodger Growling) Oh did I hit a nerve? (Laughing) Anyway, we also noticed the smell of cats being carried on the wind. We were so busy tracking their smell we didn't even notice we wondered on to your turf. Cats are such mangy creatures that leave such a bad smell!