Vlad The ImpalerA Screenplay by Dino "Camora" Zonetti The life story of a Romanian prince trying to keep countries from invading his. He manages to do so by horrific means.
CUT IN PRODUCTION CREDIT
FADE IN: A quote on a black screen white letters " A man's righteousness is judged by his good deeds, not by faith alone." Holy Bible James 2:24 FADE OUT TO: Black screen FADE IN: SUPER: YEAR 1431 FADE IN: Location to be added under the year SUPER: NUREMBERG CASTLE, GERMANY FADE OUT: Both year and location to a black screen. EXT. NUREMBERG CASTLE - AFTERNOON In the foreground there is an explosion of colors, music is in the air, birds flying around and chirping, flowers pedals blowing in the breeze and tree's swaying in the wind. The great Nuremberg Castle in the background as its keeps and towers rise in all of its glory. It is a beautiful Autumn afternoon and celebration is in the air. The Order of the Dragon, Hungarian, German and Papal flags all fly in the wind off the keeps and towers and posted on the castles battlement walls. We slowly go inside through massive gates where people are walking around as festivities of the day go on. The foods are cooking, goods being sold, people drinking and speaking in a joyous tone as loud as they can be. For a moment the HOLY ROMAN EMPEROR SIGISMUND with POPE EUGENE IV inducting a vassal into the Order of the Dragon. Telling him to stand and be recognized. SIGISMUND (O.S.) Stand and be recognized! SOUND EFFECT: APPLAUSE’S ENSUE (O.S.). CUT TO: INT. THE NUREMBERG THRONE ROOM - SAME There are 100’s of people dressed in their best of this time period, grand and lavish decorations adorn the walls of the throne room, while the camera is posted in the upper perches of the great ceremonial hall. SIGISMUND (O.S.) Will the final inductee please step forward! EXTREME CLOSE UP: VLAD II’s mustache. TRACKING SHOT: His Face fills the screen as he begins to move towards the walk way, a tall man with long black hair and a full beard, a brooding man in full military regalia in his early 40’s, he stops short and turns to his wife CNEAJNA a beautiful brunette with long flowing hair and rare blue green eyes, dressed in white and adorned with ornamental duchess jewelry and about 6 to 7 months pregnant. She smiles as she is very proud of her husband. VLAD II (comical) I will be right back my love. She begins to blush. He starts to walk toward the alter of the throne. CUT TO: INT. THE ALTER OF THE THRONE - SAME EXTREME CLOSE UP: Starting at the bottom of the sword as the camera begins to slowly move up the shaft till it reaches the face of the great Hungarian King. A man with a crown of gold with long blond hair and distinguishing eastern European features in his mid 40's. SIGISMUND (slow and regal) I have the distinct honor to introduce to this court, Vlad Batran of the House of Basarab, son of Mircea II... As Vlad arrives in front of him. SIGISMUND (CONT’D) You stand before us today as a great protector of Christendom. The Duke of Transylvania and heir to the throne of Wallachia. Vlad with a proud face begins to kneel before the King and the Pope. As the Pope anoints him with oil. The King slowly lifts his sword and is ready to knight Vlad. SIGISMUND (CONT’D) I Sigismund, King of Hungary, Emperor of Byzantium and Protectorate of Transylvania, I here by bestow upon, the rights and privileges of Crowned Prince. POPE EUGENE IV (continuous after Sigismund) And I Pope Eugene IV here by ask that you continue your efforts to the cause of Christendom and obey the laws of our lord. VLAD II I will! POPE EUGENE IV Then we hereby welcome you to the Order of the Dragon. Vlad bows his head as the sword touches his shoulders. SIGISMUND (loud) What name shall I announce to this gathered assembly! VLAD II (in a loud voice) I take the name -- Vlad Dracul. MEDIUM CLOSE UP: Both the Pope and the King look at each other with amazement at his choice, so the King nods with praise and continues. SIGISMUND (slow and loud) So be it! Will Prince Vlad Dracul, please stand and be recognized by this court. Vlad stand as thou a great weight has been put upon his shoulders and rises with his head held high in honor. He turns to the court as the room exploded in cheers. Vlad looks over towards his wife and winks at her. But we see her tearing and applauding her husband. Vlad raise his sword. ZOOM OUT: FADE TO BLACK: INT. PRINCE’S ROOM - NIGHT A faint heart beat on a black screen. (Beat) Another heart beat. A little stronger. (Beat) A flash of Vlad's wife face screaming in pain and drenched in sweat. Black screen. Another heart beat. A little stronger than before. (Beat) A flash of the MID-WIFE with her screaming. MID-WIFE PUSH! A black screen with a couple of faster heart beats. CUT TO: INT. PRINCE'S ROOM -(CONTINUOUS) Cneajna is sitting in the delivery position with her back at an angle with the mid wife between her legs. Vlad is beside her but is very distressed. A fire place in the room is crackling. The windows are open with a full moon showing on a cold wintery night. Just when things seem to be at its worst there is a pause. CUT TO: PRINCESS CNEAJNA (tired) I can not take this pain anymore! VLAD II You can do this. You are after all your a Dracul now. Vlad's comical remark puts a smile on her face. She takes a deep breath and responds. PRINCESS CNEAJNA I am glad you are here. He smiles at her. Then snaps his head towards the mid-wife’s. MID-WIFE Enough my Princess, you must push with all you strength. (humbled) My apologizes, Prince. Vlad acknowledge her apology. She nods, takes a deep breath and begins to push. A moment later after an unbelievable push of strength, the baby arrives and begins to cry. MID-WIFE (CONT’D) (shouting out) It is a boy! -- A Prince has been born! CUT TO: The mid-wife cleans the baby of the afterbirth. The child is being swaddled and adorned with the emblems and jewels of a prince. The baby Prince is lifted and walked towards Vlad and placed in his arms. He raises him close to his chest and stares at him as thou he does not believe this little boy is his and then turns to his wife. VLAD II You have brought joy to me my love and joy to Wallachia for you have given us a prince. VLAD II (CONT’D) (turns to his son and whispers) And a great prince you shall be. CUT TO: EXT. FOREST OUTSIDE SIGHISOARA CASTLE - LATE DAY SUPER: SIGHISOARA CASTLE, TRANSYLVANIA SUPER: WINTER 1431 TRACKING SHOT: On the ground looking up towards the legs of 5 galloping horses in full stride. SPECIAL GROUND TO AERIAL CIRCLING SHOT: Move from front to back on the ground to a downward aerial view of the horses from behind. We hear men yelping their horses to full speed slapping their reins from side to side. SIGHISOARA CASTLE in the background, the adopted home of Prince Vlad II. The Horses race towards the gates of the stronghold. Once inside the gates, a man jumps of his horse while still in stride and stop short of the main entrance into the castle. CUT TO: GENERAL MICEA Man the horses, I will go and get the Prince. INT. SIGHISOARA CASTLE - (SAME) He turns to the entrance way holding his sword in place as he begins to run. After a few turns in the castle he arrives at the Prince's child's room where Vlad stands in full military battle vestments over his child with his wife beside him. The door swings open. Micea walks in and is out of breath and tells him alarming news. GENERAL MICEA (out of breath) Sire... The Danesti clan along with their Boyars have assembled with the Turks in the northern plains of Arefu near the Arges! Vlad turns to Micea. VLAD II Good! We can finally be rid of the Sultan and those traitorous b******s once and for all. Are the soldiers ready, My son. GENERAL MICEA Yes 20,000 men are assembled and ready for battle. 10,000 more are circling to their flank. VLAD II Good. Ready my horse we depart at once! The battle will begin at nightfall! GENERAL MICEA At once my father. The general nodes his head in approval and leave as he came. Cneajna worried, looks at her husband and child. Vlad walks closer to Cneajna. VLAD II Do not fret my queen, I will be back. -- I promise. PRINCESS CNEAJNA I will hold you to that promise. They kiss. VLAD II I will send word of our victory. PRINCESS CNEAJNA I will be waiting... He grabs the baby from his wife and looks down at him. VLAD II (to his son) What I do tonight is for you my son and my people. VLAD THE IMPALER (giggles and wiggles back at him ) After that cute exchange Vlad give the child back to his wife and looks into her eyes and kisses her again, smiles at his son and turns to walk out. CUT TO: Out of the main entrance, Vlad walks out, VLAD II We will make for the Brasov pass. GENERAL MICEA (confused) But that will take us longer to get there. VLAD II I have a surprise for the Sultan's armies. GENERAL MICEA And what is that. As they mount their horses. VLAD II DUKE BATHORY has pledged 5000 men and horses to our cause my son. GENERAL MICEA When did this happen! VLAD II It does not matter Micea. What does matter is that Wallachia will be freed tonight! This is our time now! Micea looks at his other general and companions as a huge smile comes across their faces. VLAD II (CONT’D) You like our odds now! Vlad yelps his horse on and Micea looks at his generals with surprise and follows. CUT TO: EXT. NORTH PLAINS WEST OF POENARI - NIGHT Vlad looks toward the lower plains where some 30,000 Turks are waiting for Vlad. The sun has gone down and the torches are being lit. Behind him, a massive line of soldiers holding spears and swords and flags of Wallachia. To his right he looks at the Duke of Brasov Stephan Bathory and his horse regiment. To his left his son Micea and his brother PRINCE BOGDAN II and his horse regiment. Vlad kicks his horse to turn to his men and begins a speech. VLAD II (strong, and moving) Warriors, and free men of Europe. Here, we stand against our enemies, and against the enemies of our Lord. We must drive back this horde and free our country from these infidels. This is our time! Our country! And our destiny! In the name of Christ we may fight, but in the name of Wallachia. WE! WILL! WIN! CUT TO: After that speech the men go crazy and yell to the top of their lungs and begin to rumble their shields and swords together. VLAD II (CONT’D) ONWARD MEN! TO HONOR! AND VICTORY! The army start to rush out of the forest and down the hill. CUT TO: EXT. THE BATTLE IN THE VALLEY - (SAME) Black screen. CUT TO: A flash of swords clashing. Black screen. CUT TO: A Turk gets killed violently. Black screen. CUT TO: Howls of agony and despair. Black screen. CUT TO: More Swords clashing Turks getting cut down. Black screen. CUT TO: Vlad is making a killing blow to a major General of the Turkish armies. CUT TO: Some of the Turks begin to run as they begin to call a retreat. They run into the 10,000 infantry soldiers that are coming in on their flank. All hope is lost is shown on their faces. CUT TO: Vlad is standing in ecstacy over his kill. He watches his army cut down the remaining Turks and is proud of it. He starts to walks the battle field helping up some of his wounded men. Many soldiers are walking toward him, they begin to separate as his son General Micea, Duke Bathory and Prince Bogdan walks between them all, bloodied and tired. They raise their swords in the air. CUT TO: GENERAL MICEA PRINCE VLAD HAS BROUGHT US TO VICTORY!!! STEPHAN BATHORY Hail King Vlad! All the remaining men all stand up and in unison cry out: "HAIL KING VLAD""HAIL KING VLAD" "HAIL KING VLAD" He smiles and screams out. CUT TO BLACK: EXT. INSIDE POENARI CASTLE COURTYARD - DAY SUPER: POENARI CASTLE, WALLACHIA SUPER: 12 YEARS LATER The hands of what seems to be a child whittling a piece of wood to a point. CUT TO: INT. POENARI THRONE ROOM - (SAME) A heated discussion about the recent events in the region between REGENT JOHN HUNYADI and Vlad. VLAD II (O.S then on) I will not bow to pressure from the Sultan or to the will of the our new Pope. CUT TO: HUNYADI King Sigismund is dead. His son is to young to rule the kingdom. The Boyars will not support you if the Sultan attacks. VLAD II (interrupts) But I know this. HUNYADI (annoyed at his interruption) Bogdan is at war with Bathory over territorial rights on the border and the both of them can not come to support you. The new Pope can't send any reinforcements or supplies to help you. As your friend, I tell you this, make the deal with the Sultan. The Kingdoms can not afford this war. VLAD II What you are asking me to do is mad! HUNYADI Sire, we must keep the Sultans armies at your border. VLAD II Why? HUNYADI (calmly) Because if they over run Wallachian territory, the kingdom of Hungary is next and the doorway into Europe is opened. The spread of Islam will be severe. They can not rule the whole of Europe or Christendom will falter. VLAD II But its not your sons he wants! HUNYADI The Sultan assures us that the Princes will be well taken cared of and educated. VLAD II (nearly in tears) He wants them as prisoners. To torture and to parade them around as trophies. HUNYADI (reassuring) NO! It is only for reassurance that you will not attack the Ottoman Empire. In secret his goal is to gain control of Constantinople. He thinks that by controlling it he will be able to crush Europe, but it will take him a long time for him to conquer it and by that time we will be ready for him. My goal is to bring peace to Moldavia and Transylvania and take over Serbia so we have a better grip in the region. VLAD II (hardened) We can do it now!!! I will talk to Bogdan and Stephan. I will not let my sons go! HUNYADI We need more time to build our armies, If you had only supported us during the Varna Campaign we would not be talking about this. It is the only hope for your people. Your sons will understand. It's for your people, And the people of Eastern Europe. I promise you, your sons will not be Martyrs. Hunyadi is left dumbfounded in the throne room as he throws his crown across the room and storms out. CUT TO: EXT. THE COURTYARD - (MOMENTS LATER) Back to the child outside in the courtyard, a pointy stick has been put into the ground. The child is playing with a small hamster. He is talking to it saying things like. VLAD THE IMPALER It won't hurt, I promise the pain won’t last long. ZOOMING OUT: The child and the hamster look at each other. Just as the camera begins to pull back he drives the hamster through the stake impaling it. PAN: Revealing a row of about 6 animals impaled on sticks and the child’s face pleased at himself. From behind the child you see a man walking towards the child. Vlad II angry at what he is seeing. VLAD II Vlad! As young Vlad hears his father. He stand and runs, but is stop short as the Prince is grabbed by his arm by his father. VLAD II (CONT’D) What in the Lord's name have you done! VLAD THE IMPALER Sorry father. VLAD II We are all children of god my son! We must preserve life no matter the cost! He begins to get emotional and starts to tear. The son is confused by this emotion. VLAD THE IMPALER Father why do you cry? VLAD II Son what I must do. I do for you and the good of our people. VLAD THE IMPALER What must you do??? VLAD II My son you must go away for a while. VLAD THE IMPALER NO! I promise, I won't do it again. (almost crying) I promise! VLAD II It is not that my son, I have no choice, I must do this to save you and our kingdom. Hunyadi walks out of the gate and sees this scene. VLAD THE IMPALER (pulls away and runs) NO!!! I WON'T GO!!! NO !!! Little Vlad pushes him off and runs away. Vlad stands in tears and watches his son run into the castle. Hunyadi bows his head at the sad scene he is witnessing. EXT. IN THE COURTYARD - MORNING Storm clouds over head, a slight drizzle with thunder and lightning. CUT TO: Vlad stands in the courtyard with his wife weeping at their son's Vlad and RADU being carted off by an Ottoman Royal Wagon. The wagon goes through the gate. Vlad peeks out of the wagon and whispers an I love you to his parents. CUT TO: EXT. SULTAN COURT IN EDIRNE - DAY The wagon arrives at the SULTAN MURAD II stronghold in the Ottoman city of Edirne. The two brothers are escorted off the wagon. They both stop and look up and around at their surroundings. They are walked into a grand tent inside the stronghold. The Sultan is laying on pillows, being indulged by food and women. Then they are then presented to the Sultan. TURKISH GUARD Great Sultan, these are the princes of Wallachia. SULTAN MURAD (brash) These are the sons of the Great Vlad Dracul. RADU (curtsy) Yes, my lord. The Sultan is a big man, heavy with distinct Turkish features. Radu shows him respect and curtsy, Vlad pokes him with his elbow as thou he did something wrong. Radu looks back at him confused. SULTAN MURAD And this must be Vlad the heir of Dracul. He looks at Sultan and his surroundings with disgust and is disturbed at the strange odors. VLAD THE IMPALER Yes. SULTAN MURAD (disgusted at the site) Send the old one to the Jannissaris to be educated! TURKISH GUARD What of the young one. SULTAN MURAD Put him in the care of the Harem. He is respectful and capable of learning much from MEHMED. TURKISH GUARD Right away lord. Realizing where the smell is coming from. VLAD THE IMPALER You smell. SULTAN MURAD What did you say! VLAD THE IMPALER I said you smell. SULTAN MURAD You my boy are an animal and will be treated as such! -- If only your father would be a man and face me on the battlefield he too, would be treated as an animal! Little Vlad gets brash and insults the Sultan. VLAD THE IMPALER But you are fat, you would never be able to kill my father. SULTAN MURAD Guards! Twenty lashes for his insolence! Lets see if that will fasten that serpentine tongue of yours. Vlad has a hardened look. He knows he is in big trouble. TURKISH GUARD Yes my lord! Right away! The children are taken away and split up. Radu is taken to an opulent part of the palace where beautiful women await him. After a few turns he walks into the room where Mehmed is playing with swords. He is about 12 years old, and is happy to see him. DISSOLVE TO: Vlad is being escorted to the prison courtyard where he is strapped to a pole and given punishment ordered by the Sultan. With every lash Vlad gets weaker and weaker. He is crying and his back begins to bleed profusely until he passes out. FADE TO BLACK: EXT. THE CITY OF EDIRNE - MORNING FADE IN: SUPER: EDIRNE, 1447 CUT TO: A man's back filled with blistered scars. The whole screen is enveloped with his back. He is moving furiously back and forth, sweat is pearling up and coming off his glistening back In the background you hear a horse coming into the court yard as the back stops moving for a moment. Then continues in his rigorous chore. The horse come to a stop, It whins and snorts. Vlad is working on a big wooden spike. He is working like a man possessed. With out missing a beat he says to his guest. VLAD THE IMPALER What do you want, brother. A young man around 18-19 years old and very good looking wearing a small Turkish turban and Ottoman royal clothing. RADU (comical) I see your still playing with sticks, my brother. VLAD THE IMPALER (without missing a stride) You must find pleasure, as does the Sultan, to torture me. RADU Why do you say such things. VLAD THE IMPALER Because while you live in the harem surrounded by beautiful women. I am down here working and training for when war comes. RADU At least they are beautiful, my brother. (laughs) VLAD THE IMPALER (smirks, still working) Why are you here? RADU You will be going back to Wallachia. VLAD THE IMPALER (stops) I am free. RADU You have always been free my brother. What you will be doing is attacking it! And taking Wallachia by force. Angered at such a suggestion that he jumps off his wood and gets into Radu's face VLAD THE IMPALER The Sultan wants me to attack our father! Why do you still listen to him? He has betrays us and now father, but you still obey him as thou you are his little lap dog! RADU You must learn to embrace Islam. It shall set you anger free. VLAD THE IMPALER (musters around) This is not funny! I will never embrace him or Islam! I will not attack our father! Radu gets closer to talk to him. RADU Your right, forgive me. This is not funny, you knew father longer then I did so please Vlad sit. I have something very important to tell you. They both sit on the wood Vlad is working and Radu tells him the disturbing news. RADU (CONT’D) Father. -- Father is dead. Vlad jolted and shaken at the news. RADU (CONT’D) The Boyars have tortured and killed him. They left him to rot in the marshes of Balteni, and they buried Micea alive. They took control of the kingdom 2 months ago. We just found out that the Regent of Hungary has overrun and reinforced the country. And has installed Vladistav II of the Danesti clan, as King. VLAD THE IMPALER (saddened and shaken) Father is dead... RADU Vlad! The Sultan will attack Wallachia and install you as King because you are the elder brother, you must embrace the Sultan so Wallachia can be free from those treacherous Boyars. VLAD THE IMPALER Father is dead... RADU Vlad did you hear me! VLAD THE IMPALER (returns to his wood, whispering) Father is dead. RADU (grabs him in concern) Vlad!!! Are you OK. VLAD THE IMPALER (with a ghostly look) Leave me now brother I must finish this before midday. Vlad returns to his wood, cutting away profusely and with more vigor than before with tears coming from his eyes. MONTAGE: FACE OVER FLASHES Cutting in the scenes of the court yard when he was taken away and joyous moments with his father. VOICE OVER: REPEATING " I do this to save you my son" While he is cutting here hears something that his father told him a long time ago " I do this to save you my son". It keeps going through his mind over and over again. He is unswayed by his brother trying to see if he is OK. Radu backs away slowly and gets on his horse with some concern. But before he leaves he takes one more look back at Vlad. He is determined to finish this piece of wood. So Radu yelps his horse into motion and goes out the way he came. CUT TO: INT. VLADS CHAMBER ROOM - EARLY MORNING - NEXT DAY Vlad is seen preparing for battle. He puts on his military vestments, parts of which are Wallachian and parts are Ottoman. His aide gives him a neck chain of the symbol of the Order of the Dragon that was given to him at birth, he looks at it remembering his father and the sacrifices he made. As he looks at himself in the long mirror he is displeased AT the Ottoman vestments he has to wear. As he finishes he walk out of his chamber to the courtyard and mounts his horse. Another aide hands him his sword and he looks at it. VLAD THE IMPALER (with disgust) Ottoman steel. -- What a wretched piece of iron. The aide smiles at him. AIDE My Lord, it is for our people you must use Ottoman things. Vlad smiles back. VLAD THE IMPALER I know boy. And soon you will see our country too. He slips his sword into his scabbard and rides off. MONTAGE: WAR AND REIGN Scenes of the war and battle at the river Danube. Vlad commanding the Ottoman forces. VLAD THE IMPALER Push Forward! Vlad rides over to one of the generals. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) General, reenforce the left flank! CUT TO: Hunyadi screaming at people. He sees The Turk’s rushing the left. HUNYADI Damn it! He turns to his Vladistav. HUNYADI (CONT’D) General, Prepare for a retreat! VLADISTAV II But Regent... (interrupted) HUNYADI The battle is lost, save my men and fall back to the border! -- Now! Hunyadi and King Valdistav call a general retreat. FIRST REIGN. Vlad coming into the throne room and is crowned king. He has a meeting with his Generals and Turk’s. VLAD THE IMPALER What was once my fathers country will be again. We attack Brasov, and remove the merchants and Boyars by force. CUT TO: SUPER: BRASOV, TRANSYLVANIA He attacks Brasov, many people are being killed. Horses and men are rampaging the city. He forces the captured wives of his enemies to eat their newborn children. Vlad speaks to a few merchants and Boyars that He has captured VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) You have stolen from my people for the last time. He issues order to his men to torture them. The hot irons burning the eyes, the cutting off of hand from some of the Boyars and trade merchants. Outside the city people are being impaled and raised upright. Nearly 30,000 impaled though out the country side. What an evil site seen by people that remain. CUT TO: Vlad and his general stand over a map and point to Sibiu. VLAD THE IMPALER (to a general) If we take Sibiu, Hunyadi would have no other choice but to leave. His generals nods and agrees. CUT TO: SUPER: SIBIU, WALLACHIA. The next town is in control of a Hungarian garrison. The impalement of some 10,000 people out side of Sibiu as he brings order to his lands. Inside the throne room Vlad talks to the Turk’s. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Now that my country is free of traitors, I expel you from my lands. OTTOMAN AMBASSADOR 1 Vlad, you do not control Wallachia, The Ottoman Empire does! VLAD THE IMPALER Really? Vlad cut the Turk’s head off, then turns to the other Turk’s. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Now -- does anyone else have something to say! Vlad impales his Ottoman regiment at the border of the Ottoman Empire. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (turns to SLAV) Now my country is free from these infidels. Lets see if they’ll try to come now. CUT TO: SULTAN MURAD I want his head on my wall! Radu and Mehmed is standing in attention. MEHMED II Yes. I will do what you ask. With the insult to the Sultan, tried of Vlad's defiance sends his armies to attack Wallachia. CUT TO: His new General, GENERAL SLAV comes rushing to Vlad. GENERAL SLAV The northern province is under attack and is falling to Hunyadi and in the south the Sultan is amassing an army to attack. We have no choice, Sire. We must escape to Moldavia. VLAD THE IMPALER Ride ahead, I must get something in Poenari. GENERAL SLAV We can’t. Hunyadi is already there. Vlad is angry and flees. He is greeted by Bogdan in exile. END OF MONTAGE. CROSS FADE: EXT. CASTLE BUDAI VAR, HUNGARY - DUSK SUPER: CASTLE BUDAI VAR, 1456 MATTHIAS CORVINUS is speaking to Hunyadi the Regent of Hungary about Vlad and his ousting into exile in Moldavia. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (O.S.) He is a madman. Why would we turn to him? HUNYADI Why shouldn’t we. He may be a mad man, but we can use him to keep the Ottoman Empire at bay. MATTHIAS CORVINUS How? The Ottoman's overran the country in weeks. HUNYADI Vlad held them off with a small contingent of men. With the support of Hungary we have a chance. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (very disgusted) He forced women to eat their newborns. He impaled men by the thousands, but you would bring him here and forge an alliance. You must admit, this is insanity. HUNYADI We can debate this endlessly Sire, we know of his reputation, But one thing remains, he is the man that can unite the province and help us push back the Turks. MATTHIAS CORVINUS He is the son of an old rival. I’m sure he hasn’t forgotten. HUNYADI He is a man without a country, no sense of purpose, and if we can convince him, he will join us. MATTHIAS CORVINUS What about Prince Bogdan? HUNYADI What about him? MATTHIAS CORVINUS He had escaped assassination. How do we know, he didn't orchestrate it. HUNYADI You will soon be King and you must trust your instincts. That would gain him nothing, his ambitions is to regain Wallachia, nothing more, nothing less. Those damned Boyars on the other hand, are treacherous, deceiving each other for power and wealth. My belief is Vlad had nothing to do with the attempt on his uncle, but his knowledge of the inner workings of the Ottoman court and the Empire’s military tactics is incalculable, he knows he is an asset against the Sultan and He will help us, I know it. MATTHIAS CORVINUS I hope you are right. FADE OUT: EXT. CASTLE BUDAI VAR - WINTERY DAY FADE IN: Vlad and his Generals arrive on their horses. He gets off and takes a look at his surrounding, not trusting a thing he sees. He is greeted by Matthias as he is walking out of the castle. He also notices a young woman in the keep of the castle. A beautiful woman, tall, blonde, late 20’s early 30’s, She is also looking down at him. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (jovial) Welcome Prince Vlad... My name is... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER (annoyed) I know who you are. Why have you summoned me here. It was said that it was urgent and vital to Wallachia that I come. MATTHIAS CORVINUS It is Vlad, and I must ask that we speak alone. VLAD THE IMPALER This is Generals Slav and Daniel, they will accompany me. They are Wallachian nobles and if this is important to Wallachia it will be important to them. MATTHIAS CORVINUS As you wish. I have prepared accommodations for you. VLAD THE IMPALER (abrupt) No need your highness. I will not be staying long. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (surprised at his brash rudeness) Follow me. INT. THE GRAND DINNING ROOM - SAME They begin to walk into the castle as Matthias tries to small talk him, but no emotion or answer comes from Vlad he looks around. He is astounded at the beauty of the Budai Var. They walk through 2 big wooden doors and arrive at the grand dinning room. There is a long table and chairs, a fire is crackling in the fire place, the drapes are drawn shutting out all the light and strange shadow is in the background that Vlad notices but he disregards it for now. But with one look he nods to Slav as to keep watch on the shadowy figure. VLAD THE IMPALER (sarcasm) So what does the future King of Hungary want with a madman like me. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (taken back) Prince. If I though you where madman I would have never called on you. VLAD THE IMPALER Yes! Yes! I know you need me for something and if remember correctly the last time a Hungarian needed something from Wallachia I was made a prisoner. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (shocked and speechless) I... I... Didn't (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER The Regent has never told you. I wonder what else he never told you, for instance, like how he had my father killed. HUNYADI (O.S.) I never ordered your father killed. The mysterious shadow reveals himself and its the Regent, and Slav moves between the Regent and Vlad as Daniel hurries to Vlad’s side. He moves from the darkness into the light of the fireplace. HUNYADI (CONT’D) We may have been rivals, but I would have never made that order. I had no choice but to accept the Danesti rule. -- I had to keep the territory under Christian rule. The Generals and Vlad begins to walk toward the Regent. VLAD THE IMPALER You! The great White Knight, Your still alive. I will kill you with my bare hands. Matthias moves in a hurry and calls the guards. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Guards!!! The guards come rushing in, Vlad pulls his sword and the Generals gets in between them. VLAD THE IMPALER I knew it. This was a trap. But Hunyadi stops them from coming in. HUNYADI My dear Vlad this is not a trap. (Turns to the guards) Leave us! MATTHIAS CORVINUS (nervous) That wouldn’t be wise, Regent. HUNYADI My death will only bring about his. He has no choice but to trust me. (Turns to Vlad) Now if you would just listen to reason then we can accomplish something here today. VLAD THE IMPALER (slows to listen) Trust, you have done nothing but lied and cheat your way to power and I am surprised you haven't take the crown for yourself, and you want me to trust you. HUNYADI Yes Vlad. Matthias is the true King, I can only guide him, just as I want to guide you. VLAD THE IMPALER Matthias may be the future King but if your still alive the rule will be through you. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (angry as thou he is invisible) I will rule Hungary, alone!!! VLAD THE IMPALER (turns on Matthias) Then be rid of this traitor so we can get to the business at hand. HUNYADI Vlad! What you have here is an opportunity to regain control of Wallachia with the support of Eastern Europe. VLAD THE IMPALER How is this? You deposed me when I took control a few years ago. What has changed? HUNYADI You are not in league with the Sultan anymore. I will pledge... (interrupted) MATTHIAS CORVINUS (angered) I... as in you mean Hungary. HUNYADI (annoyed) My apologies your highness. I did mean Hungary will pledge its full support to the recapturing of the lower part of Eastern Europe and the new pope is pledging to sending supplies, men and money to the cause. Since the Ottoman’s took control of Constantinople the spread of Islam is gaining. VLAD THE IMPALER First, I was never in league with him! And it seems you have everything under your control. Why do you need me? HUNYADI You are the rightful leader of Wallachia. I did very much support your father as its leader and I wish I could have done more, but I had no choice in the matter. As far as Hungary was concerned it was an internal power struggle for Wallachia. A woman enters the room but stays out of site from everyone but Vlad. He sees her, but does not say anything about her. VLAD THE IMPALER But you ended up supporting the Danesti clan for power. HUNYADI I had no choice. You where still under the Sultan's command, what was I to do. I could not publicly condemn the Danesti clan. VLAD THE IMPALER You could have condemned my fathers murderers. HUNYADI This would have showed that Hungary was weak and could not control it’s territories. But this is all in the past my Prince. It is time for you to join us, with Your knowledge of the Ottoman armies and their battle tactic we can put them on the defensive and drive them out. I will attack through Serbia and you and Bogdan through Moldavia, Bathory will support us and attack out of Transylvania and there we will conquer back what was ours to begin with. VLAD THE IMPALER (curious at the proposal) And when will you begin this attack. HUNYADI At first spring. But we can't go without you. VLAD THE IMPALER And what of Wallachia after the Sultan's expulsion. HUNYADI Yours to rule freely and unfettered with the support and friendship of Hungary. Vlad looks at his Generals and smirks at him, but just with a look they both agree at his terms. HUNYADI (CONT’D) What say you, son of Dracul, fullfil your oath to the Order and join us, bring back the sprint your father once held over Wallachia. Vlad was inspired by that final line by the Regent and nods his head in agreement. He looks over to his Generals again. And again he notices the woman in the doorway as she leaves. VLAD THE IMPALER (smirks) We are going back my friends. The Generals smiles and is pleased at the out come of this meeting. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (turns to Matthias) Matthias, I pledge my support to you as King. (then turns to the Regent) But as for the Regent I still do not trust you. Walks closer to Hunyadi and almost into his face. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (threatening) If you so much as sneeze wrong! If there is a wind that comes down on me that feels menacing, I will come here and kill you in the most painful way possible. You know this of me, so do not tempt me. He turns back to Matthias and goes down to one knee. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (humbled and serious) I pledge my men and my armies to Hungary and to you My King. MATTHIAS CORVINUS I am not King yet. VLAD THE IMPALER But you will be. C G I: The camera zooms in to one eye of Corvinus and it begins to spin and turn white like the moon. MATCH CUT TO: EXT. OUTSIDE TIRGOVASTRI CASTLE - DUSK ZOOM OUT: THE MOON SUPER: SPRING, 1456 Vlad arrives with his regiment of mercenaries loyal to him and sees his armies camped out everywhere along the countryside. After he crosses the Ialomita River he continues on towards the castle in Tirgovastri as he looks at all the despair of what is left of Wallachia. Smoked out homes, farms destroyed, people starving along the root to Tirgovastri and Vlad is angered at the decrepit state his country is in. VLAD THE IMPALER Look at my country. After so many years of war, What am I to do to help bring this country back from ruin. As he says that to Slav, A person walks up to his horse. He looks at him as thou he knows him. STEPHAN I remember you. STEPHAN (CONT’D) You are the son of Dracul. Vlad looks at him with familiarity. STEPHAN (CONT’D) (convincing him) I was a knight in your fathers court, I help raise you. It is me Stephan, your cousin Vlad realizes who he is. He jumps off his horse and embraces him. But Stephan pushes him off. STEPHAN (CONT’D) (in disgrace) Please Sire, no! I'm not worthy of your embrace. VLAD THE IMPALER You are family and you are a nobleman. Uncle thought you were dead. STEPHAN I might as well be. I am a disgrace to our family. VLAD THE IMPALER Enough! Join me, serve the Draculesti clan once again within the Castle walls, you and I will restore Wallachia to it former glory. Then I will help restore yours. STEPHAN Much has happened Sire. Glory is far from reach, the people need leadership. They can’t go through another war. VLAD THE IMPALER We shall lead them together as brothers of Wallachia, and prepare them for when war comes. STEPHAN (nods) Vlad excited gets back on his horse and continues on to the castle. DISSOLVE TO: INT. THE THRONE ROOM - MOMENTS LATER Vlad walks into the throne room, ornamental drapes hang destroyed and burned. He sees the chair that his father once sat on, broken and laying in decay. He begins to walk towards it. Stands and recalls. From the corner of his eye he sees the Crown his father once wore in the corner of the room. He rushes towards it, picks it up and stares at it profoundly. He is a little shaken. CUT TO: Stephan walks in and sees Vlad. He stands there looking at him, then breaks the silence. STEPHAN You miss your father? VLAD THE IMPALER (shaken) Yes Stephan. -- What happened here? Stephan begins to tell him the story. MONTAGE: Death of Vlad Dracul, Micea. The installment of Vladistav and the battle of Wallachia. STEPHAN (VO of the montage) Your father fought with honor against his enemies, but it wasn’t enough, he was assassinated in the marshes near Balteni, and your brother Micea, was buried alive not far from these walls. It was believed that Hunyadi was in league with the Boyars when he installed Vladistav II as king. CUT TO: Some mercenaries and General DANIEL walk in. VLAD THE IMPALER The Danesti clan! Father never trusted them. (angry) Where are they now! STEPHAN It has been revealed that the Danesti clan was behind the assassination attempt of our uncle Bogdan, and are now in control of Northern Moldavia. The General Slav enters the room with information. GENERAL SLAV News from the front My Lord. VLAD THE IMPALER What is it! GENERAL SLAV The Regent has won the Serbian territories from the Turks. But... (pauses) VLAD THE IMPALER What! GENERAL SLAV Hunyadi has died. VLAD THE IMPALER How? GENERAL SLAV It is said the plague has taken him. Vlad upset at the news screams out in rage and throws the crown he was holding across the room. He turns to his generals and issues orders. VLAD THE IMPALER General set up court in the courtyard and along the hills of the castle. Stephan get the towns people assembled in front of the castle gates. With every ordered barked out each person leaves after the order is given. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT'D) Daniel take our best men and hunt down the Danesti clan and bring then to me alive and send word to the Boyars to come for our Easter feast tomorrow. GENERAL DANIEL What if they ask who calls upon them? VLAD THE IMPALER (with a sadistic look) Tell them the King of Wallachia has returned and it is time to celebrate. GENERAL SLAV What if they... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER They will come. The General amazed at the final command smiles at that remark and then leaves. CUT TO: In the courtyard, the mercenaries and Daniel take off in different directions on there horses to go about there mission. DISSOLVE TO: EXT. TIRGOVASTRI CASTLE COURTYARD -( LATER ) Vlad walking though his camp around mid-day watching the court yard coming alive. Live stock being gathered and slaughtered, fires are being stoked, the grand hall tables are being set up in the middle of the courtyard and in the corner a group of men are de barking a few trees oiling them down and cutting them to a point. A runner arrives and whispers something in Vlad’s ear. General Slav is walking towards Vlad with a slaughtered pig strapped across his back as Vlad stops him to speak with him. VLAD THE IMPALER General. Please prepare for some more of our distinguished guests. GENERAL SLAV (nods and laughs) Yes my lord! The General heads off in a different direction and barks order to set up 3 more holding cells on the East lawn of the Castle. Vlad continues along the path toward the front gates with his hands behind his back. He sees the town folk assembling in front of the gates. Stephan is there directing them. Vlad arrives to the gates, Stephan turns to him. STEPHAN Sire, the town's people are assembled. VLAD THE IMPALER Good. Very good Stephan. He looks around at the people and sees nothing but despair and fear in their faces, hungry and beaten, wearing tattered clothes and awaiting Vlad to speak. TRACKING SHOT: He beings to walk towards the people and stops at a young boy He goes down to one knee and rubs off some dirt from the boys face and is almost brought to tears. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (with emotion) Are you afraid? YOUNG BOY (nods yes) VLAD THE IMPALER Well boy, you will never be afraid again. He stands and walk back towards the front gates and turns back to the crowd. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) My people! You have gone hungry for far to long! You have seen nothing but war! You have seen nothing but treachery and anguish from the holy royal Boyars that you so pleasantly served. What is it that I can do for you to ease your pain, your suffering, your loyalty and your love. SOME TOWN FOLKS FEED US!!! CLEAN WATER!!! STOP THE THIEVES!!! VLAD THE IMPALER Thieves!!! Who here steals from the poor hard working people of my land! STEPHAN Sir their is a holding cell to the west of the castle walls. Where a few men are being held prisoner and are awaiting judgment. A man this morning tried to make off with the towns supply of salt, That these people have been mining from the salt mines for the Boyars. VLAD THE IMPALER What! These people have been mining? They can barely stand let alone mine salt. And I guess the profits of the salt trade has gone to the Boyars. STEPHAN Yes my lord. Every drachma. The people have been dispossessed for the Boyars pleasure. Angry and very upset he takes off his knights helmet and throws it across the castle walls and turns to Stephan. VLAD THE IMPALER (angry) Lead the way to these criminals Stephan! General bring me a goat and a golden caldron! People of Wallachia follow me and I will show you what justice really is! EXT. THE WEST WALL - SAME They all walk towards the west wall where there is a well, but right across from there is a cell holding 2 men. VLAD THE IMPALER Release them! Stephan opens the cells, 2 men come out. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) You men have been charged of a crime! Walks up and down, looking at each man to see which one is the thief. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (to the first man) What is your crime? PRISONER 1 (stands in attention) I stole from the provinces Boyar and murdered one of his guards, Sire. VLAD THE IMPALER And what did you steal? PRISONER 1 I stole a small pig -- (nearly cries) So that I could feed my family. But the guard stopped me and I had to kill him. VLAD THE IMPALER (shakes his head) Stealing from a Boyar is a crime. But a crime which I would have let pass for the Boyars have done nothing to deserve your obedience or loyalty. But murder is a different matter. PRISONER 1 Sire it was one of Vladstav's men. They had done much worst when they tortured and raped my wife and daughter for not bringing the Royal guards the monthly tribute. VLAD THE IMPALER (turns to Stephan) These people had to pay tribute? STEPHAN Yes my Lord. VLAD THE IMPALER What I will do, is be fair. Because I am a fair man. I will release you on one condition. PRISONER 1 Name it my Prince. VLAD THE IMPALER You are to get me a bucket of salt from within the courtyard and return it to me immediately. The prisoner bows and runs to the courtyard to get the salt. The crowd is in shock that he has released a man from such a crime and begins to whisper at each other things. They can't believe what they are witnessing a prince being merciful. Vlad then turns to the second man. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (get very serious) And then we have you. PRISONER 2 (With a smile) Yes my lord. VLAD THE IMPALER You are a scourge to be put down. His mood changes dramatically. PRISONER 2 But sire my crime was not as bad as his. VLAD THE IMPALER (gets into his face) One man's crimes is to be able to feed his family, the other I forgive for the simple fact that he killed a member of the Boyars guard and avenge a wrong that was done to his family. But you, you stole from the people of my village for profit. PRISONER 2 (sarcastic) It was a bucket of salt. The other prisoner comes running back with the salt Vlad requested. The General knowing what is about to happen barks orders to a couple of towns men to grab the prisoner. VLAD THE IMPALER A bucket of salt is worth your weight in gold in Hungary. You are a thief and stealing from my people will not be tolerated!!! A couple of towns men grab him and bring him to a waiting seat. TRACKING SHOT: Vlad begins to walk over to the well and takes off the wooden bucket that fetches the water down below and hook on the golden cauldron that the General has brought to him. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (turn to his people) I decreed from this day forward, that any man, women or child may drink from this well from this golden cauldron. But if this cauldron goes missing your fate will be that of this man. He walks over to the prisoner that is being held by 5 men on a seat. Stops by Stephan first. STEPHAN (concerned) Sire, is this appropriate. The children. VLAD THE IMPALER (with a clam demeanor) In my lands Stephan, any and all is appropriate and the children especially must know that they are now safe and that the law of this land is absolute! EXT. THE PRISONER TORTURE - SAME Vlad arrives to the man and slips out his knife and begins, graphically cutting the skin off the bottom of the mans feet. He screams so loud that the children watching are terrified, covering their ears. The people watching this display are grossly intimidated and will not leave for fear of repercussions. Vlad looks over at the General with a smile on his face and nods to bring the salt over. The General nods and pours the salt in a pile in front of the prisoner that is in misery and pain begging to stop. Crying and still being held by the town folk, Vlad issues an order. VLAD THE IMPALER Stand this man on the pile of salt that he wanted so badly. The men holding the prisoner look at each other and almost stop there actions. Vlad halts there thoughts. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (with and angry growl) If you don't stand him up, your fates will be far worst. They could not even imagine what he meant by that remark so they stand the prisoner up on the salt. The screech that came out of the man startled the horses near by. The people could not believe that they are witnessing this massacre. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (calmly to the prisoner) So did you have enough.... PRISONER 2 I beg you sire... please no more!!! VLAD THE IMPALER (laughs and sadistic) No more pain! You have betrayed my people and you want forgiveness. (looks at his people then turns back) You will get your forgiveness, when this goat has had its fill. The prisoner begin to scream to Vlad begging to forgive him and asking the people to help him. But the people are terrified, shocked, motionless, in fear that Vlad may do that to them if someone spoke. Vlad commanded the prisoner to be seated and the legs are lifted by the men holding him and turn in disgust at the site of the goat licking off the salt from the feet of the man’s open wounds. After a few seconds the man passes out from the excruciating pain. TRACKING SHOT: Vlad walks away emotionless and towards the crowd and continues his speech. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (as though nothing happened) My people! I will not tolerate any disobedience or disorder in my lands. It will be dealt with, severely. All I ask for is your loyalty, I live to serve you, and to protect you. My people of Tirgovastri, I decree to you 10 mountains and 10 prairie field so you may start over and rebuild this great country of ours. And in celebration for the return to the old rule, I have prepare a great feast for all of us. Fear me not for I am your true lord and fear should be reserved for God and Christ. The towns people rejoice at the great news from there new Prince and cheer and clap, as though what they have just witnessed did not happen. Vlad holding his hands in the air as though preaching to a congregation. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (speaking above the cheers) People of Wallachia! People of Wallachia! The great Danesti clan, and our mighty Boyars will arrive tomorrow and justice will finally be restored. WALLACHIA IS FREE! DISSOLVE TO: EXT. TIRGOVASTRI CASTLE - EASTER SUNDAY (NEXT MORNING) BIRD’S EYE VIEW Tirgovastri castle is being fortified. Workers hammering, 15 century cement being mixed, a moat being dug up, stones being placed and workers everywhere doing something. CUT TO: Workers are rebuilding the town, working the fields. The backdrop of a castle’s keeps going up high in the sky. Smoke is coming out of the chimneys. We see a blacksmith hammering some piece of metal. The fire pit in full blaze, the blacksmith walks the hunk of metal to a bucket of water and smoke rises. MATCH CUT TO: EXT. FIELDS OUTSIDE THE CASTLE WALLS Smoke coming from a camp fire out on a field just outside the castle walls. There is a few women cooking on a camp fire. There is a women walking towards them with buckets on a pole across her back. A big hole being plowed out to build a moat that will protect the castle and in the background we see many farmers planting their fields. We see Vlad yelping the oxen ahead next to the big hole already there, he is shirtless and sweating profusely. After a moment a young woman walks towards Vlad with a bucket strapped to her shoulder with a ladle cup. YOUNG WOMAN (humble and sensual) My Lord... water??? Vlad stops his oxen and turns and walks towards her. He is a little struck by her as she is a beautiful young long haired blond woman around early 20's rare blue green eyes. She is still bowed to him as he walks up to her. He put his fingers under her chin and lifts her head and is blown away at her beauty. VLAD THE IMPALER You need never to bow to me... He looks into her eyes and is reminded of his mother as they had the same eyes. A couple of flash shots of Princess Cneajna. Vlad's face distressed and at the point of tears. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (shaken) Never bow... He drops to his knees. The maiden panics and does not know what to do looks around her in a frantic motion and drops down to his side. YOUNG WOMAN (frighten) My lord if my presence disturbs... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER (wipes his tears) NO!!! Please do not leave!!! I do not want anyone to see me this way. YOUNG WOMAN (humbled again) Yes of course my Lord... VLAD THE IMPALER Please. No need to be shy. YOUNG WOMAN (smiles and looks into his eyes) But you my Lord are a Prince. I am not but a mere peasant girl. VLAD THE IMPALER And that will change. They both smile as they are both on the ground. He begins to drink from the ladle. CUT TO: At the camp fire the women look at them and begin to smile as thou they know that something is going on between them. EXT. FIELD OUTSIDE OF TIRGOVASTRI CUT TO: Vlad is finishing his drink he looks at the young woman known as IVA and talks with her. IVA Would you like more water. My Lord... VLAD THE IMPALER (smiles and dribbles) No!!! That was good. He pauses for a moment and tries to figure out what to say to her, and then in a flash he thinks. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (like he had an idea) By the way what is your name. IVA My name is Iva... my Lord VLAD THE IMPALER (disturbed) Please my dear call me Vlad. IVA But you are a.... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER Enough! I may be a Prince. But I am still a man. IVA But a man to be feared. VLAD THE IMPALER Why do you say such things. IVA I was there with my family when you hurt that man. VLAD THE IMPALER That man hurt my people. I will never hurt you or my people as long as they do what I ask. IVA So we still must do your bidding. VLAD THE IMPALER I will always protect my people first. But they must make our country better. Stronger! If not our enemies will conquer us again and I do not want that to happen. She stands up abruptly and is a little upset but trying to be humble at the same time. IVA And If not you will torture them too... CUT TO: The camp site women see the abrupt movement of Iva and is now a little fearful about what might transpire. CUT TO: Iva begins to walk away as Vlad stands and grabs her. VLAD THE IMPALER (distressed) Iva wait. -- I will never torture the people nor will I torture an innocent man. IVA (smiles) Good. That was my fear all along. VLAD THE IMPALER (smiles) Will you dine with me tonight. IVA (as she responds she is interrupted) Yes... Both Vlad and Iva turn to the two Horseman approaching the fields, it is Slav and Stephan racing down the castle mount. Vlad grabs the shirt of his oxen and turns to Iva. VLAD THE IMPALER Princely duty calls my dear... will I see you tonight? As thou he was reconfirming the date. IVA Yes... tonight My Lord (smiles) VLAD THE IMPALER (smiles back at her very smitten) The General arrives at his position, as Iva walks towards the campfire. GENERAL SLAV (with authority) My Lord. The first Boyars have arrived. And Daniels Runner has arrived with news that Vladistav has been captured, but most of the Danesti Clan has fled. VLAD THE IMPALER Are all the preparation made. STEPHAN Yes they have, and all is ready. VLAD THE IMPALER When will Daniel be back with Vladistav. GENERAL SLAV The runner said he should be at Poenari in a few hours. Your Uncle and your Cousin are here too. VLAD THE IMPALER Good. Send all the workers home. Have the Guards ready the feast and I will retire to my tent to get ready. STEPHAN What should I tell the Boyars? VLAD THE IMPALER It's Easter. Tell them to enjoy themselves and that I will arrive soon. Vlad walks towards his tent as the two begin to ride off, and he realizes something and turns. They both stop as Vlad says something. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Stephan! Wait! STEPHAN Yes! VLAD THE IMPALER I need you to do something. STEPHAN Yes, My Lord. VLAD THE IMPALER I need you to find and take Iva. STEPHAN And go where? VLAD THE IMPALER Go to Poenari, and wait for me there, give her what she wishes. STEPHAN Yes sir, right away sir. VLAD THE IMPALER Speak to the Boyars first. STEPHAN I will see you in Poenari. He nods and joins with Slav. They both nod, they yelp the horse into motion back up the hill. Vlad looks up at the sky and takes a deep breath. Opens his eyes and begins to walk towards a royal tent that was placed near the east wall of the castle. FADE TO BLACK: EXT. TIRGOVASTRI COURTYARD - LATE DAY FADE IN: There is around 150 guests and most are Boyars and Voivodes of Wallachia. There are some dignitaries from Moldavia, supporters of the Draculesti clan and Stephan Bathory and close friend to Vlad. The Duke of Brasov BASARAB and the Baron of Brasov ROGDAN will be the special guests of honor. INT. VLAD'S TENT CUT TO: The dragon symbol on his chain which fill the screen, then Vlad puts it on and puts on his father's vestments from his original induction ceremony. The General enters the tent. GENERAL SLAV My lord the feast has begun, all is ready. VLAD THE IMPALER Very well I will join you shortly. Slav leaves as Vlad looks at him self in the mirror. Then Vlad steps out of the tent and looks up at the sky again and takes a deep breath. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (eyes closed) My Time is here. Give me strength to avenge you, Father. Opens his eyes and begins to walk towards the castle court yard. EXT. THE COURTYARD FEAST All the Boyars and their families all eating and boosting. They are talking about the political times and the way they are stealing from their people. Stephan Bathory and Bogdan, Vlad's uncle is there talking to each other trying to forget about the old fights they got into and then the General walks up behind them. BOGDAN Where’s Vlad? GENERAL SLAV He will be here soon enough, My Prince. STEPHAN BATHORY I fear there is something a miss. BOGDAN Your fears are always unwarranted Duke. GENERAL SLAV I think the Duke may be correct. Fear is what Vlad strives for and today is no different. BASARAB (O.S.) Vlad welcome. Come join us, eat with us, My Prince. The three snap their heads behind them as Vlad arrives at the festivities with a jovial smile and ready to enjoy himself walks towards Basarab and grabs his drink and chugs it down. But his face changes from jovial to serious very quickly as he looks towards General Slav and then to Basarab. VLAD THE IMPALER (sarcastic) Duke Basarab of Brasov, are you enjoying thee festivities. BASARAB (laughing and joyful) Yes my Prince. VLAD THE IMPALER I have a question for my honored guests. Everyone slows to listens. GENERAL SLAV (amazed and whispers) He didn’t even wait till sundown. Stephan and Bogdan though they heard something from Slav, but dismiss it. BASARAB Yes, my Prince. VLAD THE IMPALER Who here remembers how many princes have ruled Wallachia since you have been alive? Many answers out loud with numbers like: 20, 15, 7 and then to Basarab. BASARAB I have seen 13 in my life time, (Wanting to change subject) Come and drink with us. VLAD THE IMPALER How do you explain the fact that we have had so many rulers in our land? Everyone looks at each other thinking for the answer. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) That is the reason why the guilt is entirely within your royal hands with your shameful acts of loyalty. Basarab is a bit upset. BASARAB What is the point to these questions. VLAD THE IMPALER (serious and wide eyed) Did my father see you coming, Duke!!! Basarab stops cold and gets serious and almost chokes on his drink. CUT TO: The three friends of Vlad look at each other in shock. STEPHAN BATHORY I told you something was wrong here. Bogdan began to nod in agreement. CUT TO: BASARAB (serious) Why do you... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER Now, Now, Duke we all know here you betrayed my father to the Danesti clan for personal gain and... (interrupted) BASARAB (serious and loud) You are surly mistaken Prince Vlad!! VLAD THE IMPALER (laughs) Did you really convince yourself into believing that, are you trying to beg for your life. BASARAB Are you threatening me! VLAD THE IMPALER (walks to him) Did my father beg for his life when you killed him or did one of your men do it. Everyone looks to Basarab as he knows he’s exposed. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) You didn’t even have guts to do it yourself... Vlad looks towards Rogdan. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (turns in fierce anger towards Rogdan) No! I fear it was someone else here that helped you. -- Is that how you got your title, Baron? All you had to do was kill the King? ROGDAN (very upset) Why are you accusing us of this? Did did you dream this up all by your self. BASARAB (angry) You are out of your.... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER (slaps him down and speaks in a sadistic whisper) SILENCE!!! You are going to die for your treason My dear Duke. General NOW!!! CUT TO: Soldiers come running in and take the court yard prisoner. General Slav walks over and takes Rogdan and Basarab and walks them to a big, black boiling cauldron in the middle of the court yard. Bogdan and Bathory walk towards Vlad. BOGDAN Vlad my boy. -- Are you sure this is the course you want to take? VLAD THE IMPALER This is vengeance uncle. This is the only course. The people must know that they have deceived them long enough, And that I mean to rule with an evened hand. STEPHAN BATHORY Yes we know that but public humiliation is another thing entirely, we are better than that. VLAD THE IMPALER Humiliation??? That is to good of a punishment for these traitors, death is what awaits them and a painful one at that. Bathory and Bogdan look at each other in fear to what is about to happen. CUT TO: Basarab is dragged to the middle of the court yard where the cauldron is boiling, screaming that he is being judge inappropriately. The General gets him there with Rogdan and are thrown to the ground. Vlad walks slowly to the middle of the courtyard while Bogdan and Bathory stay behind by the gates as to stop anyone from leaving. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (addressing the crowd) For betraying the people and the King of Wallachia, I here by sentence you -- to pain! Vlad grabs Basarab with some help from the General and gets him close to the cauldron. Basarab begging for his life is in tears for what is going to happen. BASARAB Please sire! Please you are mistaken! Please spare me, My Lord. VLAD THE IMPALER Our lord Christ may forgive you, but you will never have my mercy. He grabs him by the head and shoves him into the boiling cauldron. Vlad face is in a pleasurable pain, he is getting seared by the hot water and then releases him. Basarab pulls out instantly and we see a boiled, blistered, wounded face as he falls to the ground in agony. The General walks to Vlad and gives him a rag to cover his wounds. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (to Basarab) Now I will have a wound to remember this day of vengeance! BASARAB (in agony) My Prince please spare me... VLAD THE IMPALER (burst in sadistic laugh) Spare me... I have only just begun... CUT TO: Soldiers begin to bring in long wooden stakes into the compound. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Do you see those wooden stakes. Rogdan and Basarab are looking at the unfolding seen where the soldiers are grabbing the old and the pre-determined people Vlad had chosen. Some soldiers are escorting about 10 horses into the courtyard. Stephan Bathory and Bogdan are witnessing this but are now in fear to speak up. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (sadistic tone, pointing and nearly kneeling) Those stakes will be your funeral pyre, those horses over there will drag you worthless body as it moves from within your bowels till it comes out of your mouth. You will live out your last days in agony! You will sit upon it in continuous torment, waiting for death to come, - wishing it to come, - but it will elude you, and in the end, just when you thought you saw a glimmer of light, and death is knocking at your door, the vulture’s, and scavengers will come and begin to eat your flesh, and only then you will realize that you still may linger for another day. During that rendition of pain to Basarab, The horses are being tied to the legs of a man as they pull the body through the stake. Young men , women and children being stripped to there underclothing. They are being lined up and getting ready to march. BOGDAN (concerned) Where are these people going? VLAD THE IMPALER They will be sent to Poenari Castle and rebuild what was once lost, Uncle. My fathers legacy will be restored. STEPHAN BATHORY Walk nearly naked to Poenari. Some may not make the trip. VLAD THE IMPALER Good. Then my revenge on the Boyars will be complete. EXT. THE MARCH TO POENARI - DAY About 60 people are walking in the forest towards Poenari. Vlad and his Generals are on horseback mushing them to the castle up ahead. General Daniel greets them and welcomes everyone to the castle. GENERAL DANIEL (in a jovial way) My great Prince. Welcome to your father’s Castle. How are our new guests. VLAD THE IMPALER Daniel prepare these prisoner for the work ahead. A little upset that Vlad didn’t indulge him with a joke. GENERAL DANIEL (flustered) Right away Sir. Your other guest are in a holding cell within the castle walls. GENERAL SLAV Sire, do you wish... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER No need Slav. I will take care of this. The generals, Vlad. Stephan Bathory and Bogdan ride up ahead to get to the castle. CUT TO: EXT. INSIDE POENARI’S WALLS - DAY We see the main 4 characters ride in and many people waiting for them. A second Easter feast was prepared here and there is music playing good food cooking and again Stephan is looking a Bogdan wondering what is going on. Vlad enters the courtyard and the music stops as some of the friends of Vlad goes to greet him. VLAD THE IMPALER (joyous) Greetings... Stephan have the music continue no need for them to stop. STEPHAN Yes my Lord... (turns to the musicians) Please continue. STEPHAN BATHORY (concerned) My Prince. VLAD THE IMPALER Duke Bathory no need to worry, we are here to eat and enjoy Easter together. STEPHAN BATHORY (concerned) Are we to expect a 2nd Easter feast here Prince. BOGDAN Yes. Vlad I can not go through this again. VLAD THE IMPALER (still shaking hands and greeting people) Not quite my old friends... But there is a surprise coming. STEPHAN BATHORY (more concerned) Surprise! VLAD THE IMPALER (turns to) No need to be concerned it will be short. STEPHAN BATHORY (laughs back but still concerned) As the three walk towards the center they both get a mug of the days drink and chugs one down. A moment later a rumbling of horses comes in from the west gate and its Daniel with the 4 of the Danesti clan members including Vladistav II. GENERAL DANIEL Sire, I present the would be King Vladistav of the Danesti clan and his minions. VLAD THE IMPALER (humorous and curtsy) So our great King Vladistav welcome to my humble castle, the one you so turned to rubble and to my humble country you so tried to rule. VLADISTAV II (angered) You don't scare me. Humiliate me all you will but one day I will have my vengeance. The crowd grows fearful of the consequence of being here now as the princes guards blocks all the exits. VLAD THE IMPALER (gets serious) Vengeance ... Do you really not understand why you are here. VLADISTAV II (pompous and obnoxious) Please you will not hold the thrown for long my dear Prince the Danesti's are above all this theatrics. Vlad looks over a Stephan Bathory and Bogdan as Stephan lowers his head as thou he knows what is about to happen. Vlad bursts out in laughter. VLAD THE IMPALER (puts his hand on his sword) The Danesti's are above all this... (with one swing decapitates Vladistav, as his head hits the ground) Now you will know how it feels to be beneath all this. A silence through out the courtyard. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (load voice) I will not tolerate disobedience from anyone no matter your status in this world. Stephan! STEPHAN Yes my Lord. VLAD THE IMPALER Take these insolent b*****d to the dungeons to live out their lives. STEPHAN Right away... VLAD THE IMPALER (joyous again) Please. My Guests this is Easter. Please enjoy the rest of these festivities uninterrupted. Vlad points to the musician as they begin to play again and the people and loyal Boyars slowly begin to go back to normal. Vlad walks back towards Bathory and Bogdan. As Vlad get to him he stands next to him as people are still trying to say hello to him. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (whispers to Bathory) See nothing to be worried about. STEPHAN BATHORY (starts to laugh) I say that was rather warmhearted. BOGDAN (nearly laughing) Yes! Very warmhearted. VLAD THE IMPALER (bows in laughter) Warmhearted? That was good Baron. Come on lets drink its Easter... ZOOM OUT: FADE OUT: INT. THE DINNER WITH IVA - NIGHT FADE IN: As the night goes on, the party out side is slowly ending. A fire has been stoked in the main dinning room a make shift dinning table has been set, candles have been lit, as Vlad walks in and is preparing the nights dinner with Iva himself. He starts talking to himself. Saying things like: VLAD THE IMPALER I hope she like this. Moves towards the fire place. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) No the fire is not right yet. Goes over to the table as servants bring in the last of the food. He tastes the food. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Needs more salt. Puts salt on the food, then walks over to the fire place and lights a stick to light the candles at the table. He looks nervous as he begins to move the chairs a little closer together and then a knock on the door and it is Stephan. STEPHAN Sire, your guest has arrived. VLAD THE IMPALER Yes. Yes, Let her in. As Stephan moves aside Iva walks in dressed in a blue dress with a white shawl. Vlad makes eye contact and is memorized by her. IVA (curtsy) Good evening my Prince. VLAD THE IMPALER Iva. STEPHAN What of the remaining guests. VLAD THE IMPALER Stephan its Easter let them enjoy the rest of the night. STEPHAN Yes. I will take my leave. VLAD THE IMPALER Stephan, I wish to be undisturbed for the rest on the evening. STEPHAN (bows his head and closes the door) Camera on Stephan as he smiles shakes his head and walks away. CUT TO: A silent stare from Vlad, unsettles Iva. IVA Are you alright, my Lord. VLAD THE IMPALER You are so -- beautiful. She blushes a little. Vlad and Iva walking close to each other. They meet in front of the fire place and they begin to look at each other deeply, and then kiss. Vlad pulls away and does the unexpected. Vlad takes out a chain with his family crest and presents it to Iva. IVA What is this? VLAD THE IMPALER My family crest, -- I fell for you and I am asking for your hand. IVA (blushes) But you have known me for... VLAD THE IMPALER It does not matter, I love you. Will you be my wife. Iva looks at him intently, and smiles. IVA Yes, my Prince I will marry you! He smiles and moves in for the kiss. FADE OUT: EXT. TIRGOVOSTA CASTLE - DAY SUPER: 5 YEARS LATER At the capital of Tirgovastri at Vlad's main castle where he runs his day to day government duties. A grand castle, many 100's of people walking around beautiful lush trees and flowers and mountain ranges in the background. Daniel is walking around the castle trying to get to the throne room. He looks very upset and is walking with a purpose. As he walks into the room Vlad is talking with other aides about border defenses. VLAD THE IMPALER Our south west border is vulnerable General. Send 2000 troops from the eastern border to reinforce the line. GENERAL SLAV But Sire, that leaves the Eastern... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER (annoyed) Our quarrel is not with Moldavia. I do not trust the Turk’s. GENERAL SLAV Since the Danesti assassinated Bogdan and taken over Moldavia the borderlands have been in chaos. VLAD THE IMPALER They wont come over the border, they know the consequence of doing so. Daniel walks in and interrupts. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) A voice of reason, Daniel will you tell Slav... (interrupted) GENERAL DANIEL My Prince I just received word from the southern border!! VLAD THE IMPALER What is it? GENERAL DANIEL The trade merchants are complain of their inability of getting across the border, they are saying that the border troops are imposing a heavy tax on the salt exports. We must send word to Stephan to stop his men. VLAD THE IMPALER (stand and walks towards) Stop what? GENERAL DANIEL (surprised at the response) The taxation of the salt export, Sire. That was not part of the agreement with the Sultan. VLAD THE IMPALER (smiles at him) Well. I am changing that agreement. GENERAL DANIEL My Prince, If you do this, it will bring the Turk’s against us. VLAD THE IMPALER No it won't. The Sultan is dead. Mehmed is weak and knows that our agreement was foolish. It is time to change that. GENERAL DANIEL (pleading) I beg you Prince, do not do this!! VLAD THE IMPALER It has been decided and I do not want to talk about this again. GENERAL DANIEL But Sire... (interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER Enough! Do not go against me Daniel! GENERAL DANIEL (bows out) Yes my lord. As Daniel leaves he looks back at Vlad and General Slav talking about the southern defenses. And he is very worried at what may happen at this new turn of events. CUT TO: INT. PRINCE’S CHAMBER - LATER Vlad sits and is writing out a letter. He signs is Vlad Drakula. ( To establish his historical signature) Slav enters the room. Vlad puts wax on the paper and uses his crest ring to seal it. VLAD THE IMPALER Slav have one of your men deliver this. GENERAL SLAV Yes. I will. Waits there a moment. VLAD THE IMPALER Is something wrong? GENERAL SLAV Sire, Daniel was a little upset. VLAD THE IMPALER I know, he’ll get over it. GENERAL SLAV (hesitant) I’m sure. -- I will send the runner immediately. VLAD THE IMPALER Thank you, Slav. Have the runner report back to me. GENERAL SLAV It will be done. Slav leave the room. Vlad sits there staring into the fireplace. EXT. AT TIRGOVASTRI CASTLE - DAYS LATER CUT TO: The throne room. Vlad sitting on the throne with many guests and people are requesting favors from the Prince. There is a contingent of Ottoman monks and a group from Hungary. After the last couple that just asked for the Princes blessing for there upcoming nuptials. The Ottomans begin to walk towards Vlad as Vlad stares at them in a little disgust. VLAD THE IMPALER (sarcastic) Everyone. Please welcome the grand saviors of Europe. OTTOMAN MONK Prince Vlad we must request a private audience. VLAD THE IMPALER There is nothing private here in my country, nor will I give you one. State your purpose. OTTOMAN MONK Sire... We are here to extent a olive branch and propose a trade agreement. As Vlad listens to the Monk he begins to become enraged at the site of them. OTTOMAN MONK (CONT’D) Our proposal is that you provide the Ottoman Empire with an annual tribute of salt in exchange. (Interrupted) VLAD THE IMPALER (In a calm fashion) Remove your turbans. The monks startled at the strange request look at each other. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) I ask again! Remove your turbans. OTTOMAN MONK Sire you of all people know that for an Islamic monk to bare his head is an insult to Allah. VLAD THE IMPALER (calm and rude) In my country I am Allah. And I say it again. Remove your turbans. OTTOMAN MONK (angered) Sire. I must refuse. VLAD THE IMPALER (stands and is mad) Not only do you come to me with a proposal of extortion, But you insult me with your presence and refuse a request from me the Prince of Wallachia and heir to the throne. Seize them!!! All of the people are gasping in the chamber at the Princes angered state. VLAD THE IMPALER Bring the smitty with nails. The monks look at each other in fear of possible repercussions. The Hungarian group begin to leave as they know what is about to happen. The guards seizes them and they await for the Blacksmith to come from the courtyard. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) So for your refusal to obey me and remove your turbans. My Royal Guards will nail your precious turbans to your heads. We watch as the blacksmith begins to nail the turbans to theirs heads and they scream out in pure agony. Vlad stands there in joy and pleasure. CUT TO: EXT. THE SULTANS COURTYARD - THE NEXT DAY The Sultans caravan is coming into the courtyard in Constantinople as the new Sultan Mehmed II and Prince Radu come out to greet the caravan. RADU Do you think he when for it. MEHMED II I hope so we could use a new ally. As the caravan stop in front of them the rider looks terrified. The Sultan opens the caravan doors to find his Monks dead with their turbans nailed to their heads. Medved is incensed and walks back in. But Radu is standing there in disbelief at what he sees RADU (under his breath) What have you done! Brother, what have you done. He shakes his head and walks back in after Medved. CUT TO: INT. SULTAN’S PALACE IN CONSTANTINOPLE - DAY Sultan Medved outraged that his emissaries were murdered. He issues orders to start a war. MEHMED II Radu. I want you send 5000 men to Tirgovastri, and prepare the army for a full on assault on Wallachia. RADU Yes, how many men in the second wave will you need. MEHMED II All of them, I want to crush them once and for all. Europe will belong to me. Radu curtsy and walk out like he is on a mission, very forceful. He walks to his chambers and there is a man waiting for him. RADU (interrupted) Who are... RUNNER This was meant you, Sire. The runner extends his hand out with a letter. He takes the letter and sees it’s from his brother. Voice over: while he is reading it. VLAD THE IMPALER (V.O.) My dear brother, the time has come that you take your rightful place beside me, we both know that is what father would have wanted. You are of Wallachian blood and your place is here, not in the clutches of our enemies. Please consider this for war will come to us. I can not stand to see you against me on the battlefield. Let our blood bind us together in destiny, for we are one. Your brother, VLAD DRAKULA. He put the letter down. RUNNER Do you have any message for me to return. RADU (almost insulting) NO! Leave and never look back! The runner leaves his chambers. After a moment in thought he turns the table over in rage. RADU (CONT’D) He did this on purpose! Damn you Brother! He leaves his chamber incensed. CUT TO: EXT. TIRGOVASTA CASTLE - EVENING Vlad is at dinner with Iva, and is interrupted by the Generals. VLAD THE IMPALER How do you like your new Embroidery? IVA (smirks) It is lovely My Prince. Doors breaks open. GENERAL SLAV Prince Vlad there is a force of 5000 men that has crossed the border. VLAD THE IMPALER (concerned) To which town? GENERAL SLAV They have taken Bucharest, and heading here next. VLAD THE IMPALER (wild eyed) Prepare the fortification to the town, bring the provision underground and put the men on the battlements. GENERAL DANIEL Should we ride out and meet them head on. It’s only 5000 men. VLAD THE IMPALER We will, but the main force is right behind them. By 3 days at least. GENERAL DANIEL And how do you.. GENERAL SLAV (interrupting) Yes my lord. We will get ready. VLAD THE IMPALER (disturbed) Good general, Daniel, you must trust that I have not let you down before. GENERAL DANIEL Yes. VLAD THE IMPALER Then the next time you question my order, I will disembowel you. GENERAL DANIEL (humbled) Yes my lord. My apologizes. I will ready the armies. VLAD THE IMPALER Then do so. The general leaves very disturbed about his comments and now worries for his life. Looks back at the doors to the dinning hall that Vlad is still in and make a face of annoyance and walks off. Back to the dinning hall where Iva is in and says to Vlad. IVA Weren't you a little hard on him. VLAD THE IMPALER I need to make sure that all of my men know what I'm doing. Otherwise they will falter and we will be overunned by the Turk’s. IVA Yes. But Daniel loves you like a father. VLAD THE IMPALER I want Daniel to understand that to rule a country he must be strong. I was thinking of making him, Baron. IVA Have you told him. VLAD THE IMPALER Not yet. I will wait till after this crisis is over. IVA Good. He would love that. VLAD THE IMPALER I must now take my leave, My Iva. IVA Come back to me safe. VLAD THE IMPALER I will He kisses her and leaves. As he is walking out the runner meets him. RUNNER Sire. VLAD THE IMPALER What did here say? RUNNER Nothing. He told me to leave, he seemed very insulted! Vlad got angry and walks away from the runner. He stands there wondering what is going on. CUT TO: EXT. OUTSIDE TIRGOVASTRI CASTLE - NEXT DAY Slav is ordering everyone into places and Vlad is walking towards him. VLAD THE IMPALER Is everything in place? GENERAL SLAV Yes. VLAD THE IMPALER The main force will be here at day break. GENERAL SLAV We will be ready. I saw the runner, did he send a message back. VLAD THE IMPALER No! I don’t think he took it well. GENERAL SLAV We could have used him. VLAD THE IMPALER No matter, he made his choice a long time ago. GENERAL SLAV At least you tried, Sire. Vlad nod in agreement. Men are walking many stakes into the castle by the 100’s. Vlad is looking around and notices Daniel is not around. VLAD THE IMPALER Slav where is Daniel? GENERAL SLAV He has readied the regiment and said he will be back by night fall. Vlad wonders, but shrugs it off. He walks back into the castle. FADE OUT: INT. SULTAN’S TENT IN BUCHAREST - DAY Radu is getting things ready as the Sultan arrives into the tent. MEHMED II Has the attack begun? RADU At Nightfall the siege will begin. MEHMED II When do we leave? RADU At day break, we should arrive by mid-day, by then they should break in the outer walls. MEHMED II Excellent! A Sultan bodyguard enters and announces a visitor. SULTANS GUARD (at guard) Emir, we have a guest that has ask to speak with you. RADU Send him away. SULTANS GUARD Yes. But has said he has information you must know. MEHMED II Who is it. SULTANS GUARD He will not say. RADU Send him in! CUT TO: EXT. OUTSIDE TIRGOVASTRI CASTLE - NIGHTFALL The battle has begun. Vlad, Slav and Daniel are cutting down the enemies and looks to be the victor. The famous NIGHT ATTACK. The impalement begins of all the 5000 plus and all the men Vlad has lost. A sea of bodies on one side of a road and more on the other side. Tirgovastri Castle in the background and some men are kneeing on the floor amongst this carnage. Vlad arrives and sits in the road where a table and chair is set up. Slav and Daniel are standing to the side Slav smiling and Daniel a little disgusted. Vlad sits and is being served a early breakfast as the sun is rising, by a servant from the castle amongst this stench of rotting corpses. VLAD THE IMPALER (theatrical) I want a cup full of my enemies blood. SERVANT (suffering from the smell) Yes. He walks over to one of the bodies as its dripping blood and catches it in a cup. He walks over to Vlad and presents the cup. SERVANT (CONT’D) Sire, the blood of your enemies. Vlad is sitting there enjoying the food presented to him. And not effected from the smells in front of him. The servant is disturbed and to the point of gagging. SERVANT (CONT’D) I am above all this, how can you sit there and eat and not vomit from the smell. VLAD THE IMPALER (slurping bread that he soaked in the cup of blood) You are above all this, you say. SERVANT (begins to leave) Yes. This is madness. VLAD THE IMPALER (angered) So be it Vlad thrusts his sword and orders him impaled. As he is being impaled. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (laughing and looking at Slav) Be sure to use the longest stake, after all he is above all this and that is where he will be. Vlad walks over to the men that are kneeling and witnessing all this madness. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Now I have spared you, your jobs will be to report to the Sultan and tell him how crazy I am, an implore him to leave. Can you do that for me. They all nod in unison. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Guards! Release them. Remember tell him everything you saw. The guards releases them and they run away in terror. Slav walks over to him while Daniel stays back. GENERAL SLAV (trying not to laugh) How did that taste, Prince. VLAD THE IMPALER (looks over and begins to laugh) I would rather be impaled then taste that again. They laugh and walk off in this insane scene of slaughter. Daniel thinks this is so disgusting and walks behind them but always looks at Vlad. FADE OUT: EXT. ROAD TO TIRGOVASTRI - MID MORNING Columns of soldier after soldier. CUT TO: The Sultan. The 5 men that ran away has run into the Sultan’s armies and are telling the Sultan the story. MEHMED II What! All of them! RADU We should reconsider this invasion. MEHMED II Never! I want him hunted down and his head on my own stake! We move on! Radu a little worried at what he will see, the 5 men continue running away from the armies. CUT TO: EXT. SULTAN ARRIVES AT TIRGOVASTRI - MID-DAY At the edge of the forest the Sultan arrives and sees the horror for himself and is incensed. MEHMED II No man should die in such a way. RADU He has gone mad. He speaks in his native tongue but subtitle in English. MEHMED II The devil impaler walks the earth. May Allah be merciful and give us victory. ATTACK! Use Seytah Oglu for devil impaler. Mehmed look to his soldiers. MEHMED II (CONT’D) Men! Attack! The forces of the Sultan attacks and they attack at the west wall which is the weakest, the moat has weaken the soil beneath it. Vlad is in his tower keep looking at what is unfolding and is surprised at the move. The general knows that this battle is now lost. GENERAL SLAV Sire we must get you out. They seem to know the west walls is unstable. VLAD THE IMPALER How? GENERAL SLAV Vlad we must.. Argh!!!! Daniel has put is sword into Slav. Vlad in shock. VLAD THE IMPALER What have you done. CUT TO: Stephan on the other side looking at the armies charging hear Vlad screaming, he begins to run towards them. CUT TO: GENERAL DANIEL I am putting and end to you and all of this death, you will never threaten anyone again. VLAD THE IMPALER (raving) But you, you would have been my Heir, I hand picked you. Why? Why? STEPHAN (barges in) Daniel! What have you done? Stephan begins sword fighting Daniel, CUT TO: Meanwhile some men accompany Vlad and Iva through the tunnels to escape. CUT TO: STEPHAN (CONT’D) (while sword fighting) Why have you betrayed us? GENERAL DANIEL He is the traitor -- not me! Stephan and Daniel fight but Daniel ends up knocking him out. CUT TO: He jumps on his horse and leaves to join the Sultan. CUT TO: Stephan awakes and escapes the same way Vlad and meets him in Poenari Castle. FADE TO BLACK: INT. POENARI’S KEEP - NIGHT FADE IN: Vlad see that the Sultan is relentless and is close to the castle retreat. Stephan arrives into the courtyard where Vlad meets him. Iva is in the keep watching everything unfold, and the people from the nearby town of Arefu come to help the Price. STEPHAN (worried) You must leave, now! VLAD THE IMPALER I will not abandon my country, I worked to hard to bring it out of ruin. STEPHAN You must go! Go to Matthias. He will help you. VLAD THE IMPALER Yes! He will help us! TOWNS FOLK Go now! We have prepared a horse for you, it’s shoes have been nailed backwards so no one can track you. Go now! Please we need you to come back. Please go! STEPHAN Listen to them, go by the Brasov pass. VLAD THE IMPALER Iva? STEPHAN I will get her out! Just as he finished the line arrows come fling in over the castle walls. STEPHAN (CONT’D) GO!!! VLAD THE IMPALER ARGH!!! Vlad leaves, as Stephan walks in the castle to get Iva. As Iva watches the Armies outside her castle walls, and the Stephan walks in and not Vlad, She despairs. STEPHAN We must leave immediately, My Princess. IVA (in despair tears down her eyes) My Vlad is dead. STEPHAN (consoling her) He is not dead. He.. (interrupted) IVA He would be here, not you. He is dead! You lie to me! She is crying uncontrollably, as she hears Radu walking into the hall by her embroidery, she panics. RADU (O.S.) (screaming) Vlad! -- Vlad! IVA (crying and in pain) My child will never be a prisoner and it will never know the man they have killed. RADU (O.S.) Vlad where are you! STEPHAN (shocked that she has told him she is with child) Iva, he is alive, he just... (interrupted) IVA (at her wits end) STOP! NO MORE... RADU (opens the door) Vlad, are you... As Radu enters the room Iva throws herself out the window of the keep to the river Arges below. Stephan looks in bewilderment, as Radu walks to the window. STEPHAN (confused) Why? Why would she not listen? RADU (amazed) My brother’s wife? STEPHAN (nods yes) RADU (looks to him) Where is he? Where did he go? Stephan is in a trance and does not hear Radu. DISSOLVE TO: EXT. BUDAI VAR CASTLE HUNGARY - DUSK Vlad arrives on his horse at Budai Var Castle. He jumps off and runs inside. He walks through the halls till he arrives at the grand hall doors. A woman peeks out near him from around the door. He does not notice this woman. CUT TO: Inside looking at the doors as Vlad swings them open. Matthias is sitting with his advisors speaking to them about the days events in Wallachia and see vlad walk in. VLAD THE IMPALER King! I'm here to call upon Hungary! We need your help! The King rises off his chair and looks at his guards. The woman from the previous scene runs in from the side where the guards were standing to watch what is unfolding. Vlad sees this and is confused. The guards rush him, grabs his sword and hold him captive VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (confused) What is the meaning... (interrupted) MATTHIAS CORVINUS Enough! You have gone to far! Take him away! The guards begin to escort Vlad out as Vlad struggles to get free cursing and threatening the king for betraying him. VLAD THE IMPALER You Betrayed me! B*****d! I will kill you! The woman looks over to Matthias and makes eye contact. DISSOLVE CUT TO: Vlad is throw in to the dungeon cell as the guard locks it. DUNGEON GUARD I hope your accommodations are satisfactory. Vlad remains silent and very angered at his situation. CROSS FADE: INT. BUDAI VAR CASTLE DUNGEON - NIGHT Matthias walks down into a dark and damp dungeon where Vlad is sleeping in a corner of the cell. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Vlad! -- Vlad! Vlad wakes and is slow to get up. He is weak and exhausted VLAD THE IMPALER Why have you done this to me? Why have you betrayed me? MATTHIAS CORVINUS You betrayed yourself! VLAD THE IMPALER How? MATTHIAS CORVINUS Your thirst for bloodshed is greater then your compassion for life, and for that reason I have imprisoned you. VLAD THE IMPALER I've did what I had to, to keep order in my lands. I will not apologize for that! My people adore me! MATTHIAS CORVINUS Your people! They fear you at every turn, you have killed thousands, and tortured many more, and you call that admiration. I call it insanity. VLAD THE IMPALER Call it what you will, I only killed those that betrayed my people, not one of those wretched men were ever innocent. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Innocent or guilty, it really does not matter anymore, with your imprisonment the Sultan has agreed to pull back to the Danube and give me control of Wallachia. VLAD THE IMPALER And what of me? MATTHIAS CORVINUS You are to be confined, I beg you do not make this hard for me. VLAD THE IMPALER You will leave me here to rot! MATTHIAS CORVINUS (walking away) That -- I will leave up to you. Matthias begins to walk up the stair out of the dungeon. VLAD THE IMPALER (O.S.) Matthias! -- you are no better then Hunyadi! -- Matthias! Do you hear me! NO BETTER! CUT TO: Vlad with hands on the prison bars head bowed down in disgrace. DISSOLVE TO: INT. CASTLE BUDAI VAR DUNGEON - DAYS LATER Vlad is sitting there looking out of the prison window, he looks very dirty as he hasn’t showed in days, depressed and deep in thought. A women named ILONA walks down to the dungeon to see Vlad. He hears her come down but does not move. Thinking she could talk to him, she realizes it’s a mistake, and begins to go back up the stairs. VLAD THE IMPALER I’ve seen you a few times now. ILONA How could that be we have never met? VLAD THE IMPALER You are right, but I have seen you none the less, you were looking at me from your tower keep years ago. She smiles, as she can’t believe he remembers that. ILONA That could not be, but you said you saw me a few times. VLAD THE IMPALER And few days ago, when I was taken away and imprisoned. ILONA I didn’t think you saw me. VLAD THE IMPALER Subtlety is not your best asset, My Princess. ILONA I apologize, for my curiosity. VLAD THE IMPALER What do you want from me? Matthias is standing outside the door up the stairs listening to his sister talking to Vlad. ILONA I wanted to know if there is anything I can do to help ease this burden. Vlad suddenly moves from his position and walks over to the cell bars. VLAD THE IMPALER (whispers) Yes you can. Please send a message to Brasov and tell Iva that I'm in here. ILONA (frightened) I... I... I shouldn't have come. She freaks out and begins to walk away starts to tear, as she knows something. VLAD THE IMPALER Wait! What is wrong! ILONA I don’t want to be the one to tell you. Matthias is now sadden to what is about to be said. VLAD THE IMPALER What! ILONA Your Iva... VLAD THE IMPALER What about Iva! IVA She has passed, she thought you were dead and threw herself out of her window in Poenari. VLAD THE IMPALER (in shock and very shaken) No. Vlad walks in his cell circles like an insane man saying “NO” a few times as he stops puts his hands on his head and drop to his knees. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) (screams high) NO!!!! Ilona hears this terrible scream, runs up the stairs where Matthias is waiting, she runs into him, they look at each other as she is crying, they don’t say anything to each other as she runs off leaving him behind. Vlad again screams ‘NO’ and Matthias snaps his head back to the doorway to the dungeon, he bows his head and walks off. DISSOLVE TO: INT. MATTHIAS CHAMBERS - DAYS LATER Ilona walks into Matthias’s chambers angry. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Sister, what is wrong? ILONA Why do you have him lock up like a dog! MATTHIAS CORVINUS He is not to be trusted, I am protecting our right’s of Hungary. If I don’t keep him in prison the Ottoman Empire will come. Ilona walks up and down the room. ILONA He is still a Prince. Does he have to be treated like a normal prisoner! He just lost his wife. Surely ... (interrupted) MATTHIAS CORVINUS And what would you have me do! ILONA Its not just, my dear brother. Matthias starts to stoke the fire. Ilona is looking at a painting of Sigismund, her father. MATTHIAS CORVINUS You would not say that if you knew what he had done. ILONA Our family had done horrible things, too. But we still rule Hungary. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Enough! I will no release him! ILONA I’m not asking you to free him! Pulls away from the fire place. And Ilona turns to him. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Then what is it you want? ILONA Imprison him in the Donjon. I will tend to his needs if he asks for it. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Why do you care so much for him. You don’t even know him. Ilona completely bypasses the question. ILONA Please brother. Matthias walks over to his desk and puts his hand on them like he is making a big decision. The air is tense and Ilona is waiting for an answer. ILONA (CONT’D) Brother... MATTHIAS CORVINUS So be it! I tell you now, he causes so much... (interrupted) Ilona is elated that she convinced him. ILONA I know Matthias! But he won’t, trust me. She runs to him and kisses him. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Why do I feel I am making a mistake. She walks out. CROSS FADE: INT. BUDAI VAR CASTLE DUNGEON - DAY SUPER: 5 YEARS LATER Vlad is in a kneeling position reading the bible, he hears Matthias and Ilona walking up to a locked royal Donjon. The Donjon is nicely adorned, it is part of the royal castle. Vlad’s room is lock by doors and behind the door is a cell door. Matthias opens the door. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Vlad. VLAD THE IMPALER (Humbled) Yes My Lord. Vlad stands and walk to the cell door. MATTHIAS CORVINUS At the request of my sister, I was convinced to free you. VLAD THE IMPALER Only the lord our god can set me free, sire. My imprisonment is only a means to get there. Impressed at his response he unlocks the door to the cell and Vlad walks out. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Thank you, my Lord. Ilona hugs and kisses Vlad. After the exchange he turns to Matthias and kneels. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) I pledge myself to you my King and serve you till my death. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (helps Vlad off his knees) All I want is that you serve my sister well. Don't make me regret this. VLAD THE IMPALER As always I will. ILONA (could not contain herself) Vlad! I am with child. VLAD THE IMPALER What! Vlad with a shaken and surprised look, turns to Ilona and picks her up off the floor. Matthias walk by Vlad and shakes his hand. MATTHIAS CORVINUS See me in my chambers tomorrow. VLAD THE IMPALER Yes, My Lord. They continue to hug and kiss as Matthias feeling good that he has made his sister happy is walking back down the stairs. DISSOLVE TO: INT. KINGS CHAMBERS - DAY Vlad walks into the room where the king is standing by the fire place looking at a picture of his father Sigismund. Vlad walks to his side. MATTHIAS CORVINUS I wish I had gotten to know him better. You also lost your father at a young age. VLAD THE IMPALER Yes, My King. If he wasn't killed things would have been very different. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (saddened) Our fathers knew how to keep the peace, the world is changing and there is nothing we can do about it anymore. VLAD THE IMPALER Sire, you have deceived me. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Why would you say that! VLAD THE IMPALER I don't think you freed me to be with your sister. MATTHIAS CORVINUS I can not fool you. VLAD THE IMPALER What is wrong? MATTHIAS CORVINUS My sister was one reason I freed you, but not the only one. I need you again. VLAD THE IMPALER I am here to serve you. MATTHIAS CORVINUS I am reinstating you privileges as Prince, and I ask you to be my adviser. Vlad closes his eyes and takes a deep breath as a weight has been lifted off of him. VLAD THE IMPALER The Ottoman's? MATTHIAS CORVINUS Yes, they have attacked Bucharest and annexed the Serbian provinces. They are gaining more land everyday. Your brother Radu is now the regent of Wallachia and I can not stand by a watch another province fall. VLAD THE IMPALER What of Duke Bathory? MATTHIAS CORVINUS After your wedding to the princess, we will have a meeting with, your cousins. VLAD THE IMPALER Cousins? MATTHIAS CORVINUS Oh. Yes. I forgot to mention that Bathory has been made Prince of Transylvania and Your loyal cousin Stephan, was made King in Moldavia. VLAD THE IMPALER (amazed) Stephan, a king. He is a good man, a loyal man. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Yes he is, they have been invited to the wedding. VLAD THE IMPALER Good. What of my duties. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Your orders are to prepare my Generals for war. Teach them the Ottoman way of fighting so they will be ready. VLAD THE IMPALER I will my lord. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (turns to) Kneel! Vlad turns to the king and kneels. Matthias pulls his sword. MATTHIAS CORVINUS (CONT’D) I here by bestow upon you, privileges of Crown Prince. He Knights vlad. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Stand. (a beat) You are now my heir, if my sister bares a son, he will rule all of Eastern Europe, after my death. VLAD THE IMPALER I am humbled at your confidence my lord. Matthias holds Vlad by his shoulders and walks out. Vlad stands there looking into the fire thinking on how to prepare for war. FADE OUT: INT. BUDAI VAR’S CERIMONIAL HALL - DAY CUT IN: ALL THE MEMBERS OF VLADS FRIENDS A Bishop going over vows in the b.g. Vlad in his families royal vestments standing next to Ilona as all the dignitaries are watching. ILONA I do! VLAD THE IMPALER I do! The Bishop wishes them luck and to kiss his new bride. As they walk out of the ceremony, he sees all of his friends and family there and then Vlad sees someone he was not expecting. VLAD THE IMPALER (shocked) Slav! FLASHBACK SHOT: SLAV BEING KILLED BY DANIEL General Slav walks out from behind Bathory and smiles at him. VLAD THE IMPALER (nearly speechless) But I... I saw you... GENERAL SLAV I know my prince. Vlad stop his walk out from his wedding and walks over and hugs him. Everyone is joyed to see this reunion. VLAD THE IMPALER But how? Flashback shots: Stephan coming to see if Slav is really dead. Picks him up as Slav is trying not to burden Stephan to much. GENERAL SLAV Stephan came back for me and saw I was still breathing, I owe my life to him. Bathory and Stephan both come over and puts their hands on his shoulders. VLAD THE IMPALER It does me good to see you all and especially you my old friend, join me after. GENERAL SLAV I am here to serve you again my great Prince. Vlad happy, walks back to his wife and apologizes VLAD THE IMPALER My apologizes my love. ILONA I knew that would surprise you. VLAD THE IMPALER You knew! ILONA Yes we all did. VLAD THE IMPALER That was some surprise. They walk out of the ceremonial hall. CUT TO: INT. THE THRONE ROOM - DAY Matthias, Vlad, General Slav, Bathory and Stephan are going over plans to attack southern Wallachia. They are all putting it together the they get interrupted. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Vlad will attack Bucharest head on, while I will hit there flank. STEPHAN BATHORY What are my armies to do. VLAD THE IMPALER I need you to cover my flank. GUARD Sire, The Ottoman ambassadors have arrived. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Send them in. Vlad and Slav move off to a dark corner of the room. While the king and his associates await for the Turk’s. The Turk’s come in. OTTOMAN AMBASSADOR (walking in) Good day, King! MATTHIAS CORVINUS (sarcastic) What can I do for our great Turkish friends. OTTOMAN AMBASSADOR We are here to inform you that you must pull all of your forces out of Northern Wallachia, Prince Radu is now ruler of these lands, as it is his birthright. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Really! -- I will do so only if he can prove his birthright. The Ottoman’s look at each other and laugh. OTTOMAN AMBASSADOR You can ask your prisoner, his true linage. Matthias looks to the corner and Vlad steps out, and sneaks up to the Ambassador. Matthias wait for Vlad to get close to the Turk’s. MATTHIAS CORVINUS How about you ask him your self. VLAD THE IMPALER (whispers into his ear) I am the only true birthright here. OTTOMAN AMBASSADOR (panics, scared out of his mind) If I am not back at my post in three days time Hungary will come under attack. MATTHIAS CORVINUS Is you business here finished. OTTOMAN AMBASSADOR Prince Radu will here of this. VLAD THE IMPALER Tell my brother I said hello. The Turk’s flee the compound in a hurry. Slav walks over to the group. GENERAL SLAV I think he soiled himself when he saw you. STEPHAN BATHORY He has that effect on people. They all laugh and we fade out. DISSOLVE: INT. BUCHAREST CASTLE - DAY The ambassadors come walking into the throne room in a hurry. And begin to talk to Radu. Radu gets very angry. RADU So they have released him. He must be desperate, now! He walks to the hallways, where his guards are. RADU (CONT’D) Guards! Prepare the Jannissaris, War is coming. The guards nod and walks away quickly. CUT TO: EXT. BUCHAREST - LATE DAY Vlad is outside of Bucharest where the Sultans armies are amassing. He looks back at his army and begin to say something. VLAD THE IMPALER Men! I am not much for words, But I will tell you what my father said to me once, What I do now, I do for my country. To be to live our lives the way we want to. So I tell you this, What we do here today is not for our country, not for your king and not for me, but for yourselves, you fight to be free. I may have ruled with a heavy hand but my people were free, and so it shall be again. Men scream and elated. Vlad turns to face the Turk’s and Slav rides over. GENERAL SLAV That was..... Inspiring. VLAD THE IMPALER I see you haven’t lost your sense of humor. Vlad looks at him trying not to laugh. Then looks down the field. Vlad labors to see a flag down field. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) General do you see what I see. GENERAL SLAV WHERE! VLAD THE IMPALER That flag on the right of that infantry column. Is that crest... GENERAL SLAV Yes. Thats Daniel’s crest. VLAD THE IMPALER (outraged) He is mine. Vlad incensed sounds the charge. Vlad rides hard into infantry with sword waling and cutting down men. As he ride towards the flag he saw. The battle is going in favor of Vlad. A he is fighting and circling with his horse, swinging away he see him, Daniel is a few yards away. Vlad put his sword behind him, and charges at full blast. And the Daniel see him, and he does the same. As they get close Vlad starts to scream and hops off and tackles Daniel off his horse to the ground. They are both a little dazed, as they get up. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) I will never threaten you again, you said. GENERAL DANIEL Now I will fullfil that promise. VLAD THE IMPALER Your not good enough! GENERAL DANIEL We shall see, my Prince. They begin fighting clashing swords back and forth they come together. VLAD THE IMPALER Today is the day you die! GENERAL DANIEL But I am stronger then you. I seriously doubt it. VLAD THE IMPALER You maybe stronger. But I am smarter. With a slip in the sword Vlad cuts under him and cuts off his leg. Daniel collapses and screams in agony. Vlad stands over him. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) Who is killing who Daniel -- to think I was going to make you my heir. He swing his sword and cuts his arm off, Vlad is beginning to lose control. VLAD THE IMPALER (CONT’D) I am going to cut you piece by piece. From behind his brother Radu is coming. Slav sees Vlad over Daniel and Radu heading for him. He begins to run. And screams out. GENERAL SLAV Vlad! Behind you! Vlad swings his sword behind him and connect sword to sword with Radu. RADU Hello brother, I got your message. VLAD THE IMPALER Good. Its time to end this once and for all. Brother vs. Brother! RADU (comical) Father would not approve. Lets not do this we can rule together. VLAD THE IMPALER Do not mention father, you disgrace his name for the banner you fight for! RADU You still have so much anger, I told you to embrace Islam. VLAD THE IMPALER To hell with you! Vlad starts to fight both are very evenly matched, well trained, they both each strike a cut to each other and continue. As the fight goes on, Slav is cutting his way to Vlad, he see Daniel still moving on the floor with no leg and no arm. Vlad and Radu are hacking away no one getting the upper hand until, Daniel sits up with sword pointing out and Radu backs Vlad into it. GENERAL SLAV NO! Slav has finally arrived and strikes a killing blow to Daniel. Radu stops fighting, Vlad has a sword going through the middle of his stomach. Vlad collapses to his knees. GENERAL SLAV (CONT’D) VLAD! Slav runs to him and holds him in his arms. Blood spewing out of his mouth. Vlad takes Slav hand in a brotherly way. VLAD THE IMPALER You have always been a friend and my true brother. Radu lower his head as he is disgraced. GENERAL SLAV (tears and choked up) Stay with me, My Prince. VLAD THE IMPALER Do... not .... Let the Turk’s.. GENERAL SLAV We have won My Lord. We have won. VLAD THE IMPALER (last breath) Win! Slav devastated some Turk’s come running over seeing Vlad dead. They take out a knife and get ready to cut off his head. Slav loses his mind and kills one of them and Radu comes in and stop Slav. RADU Lower your sword General. GENERAL SLAV You will not desecrate his body. RADU The Sultan wants his head. GENERAL SLAV Then I will have to kill you. Bathory arrives to the scene where Slav and Radu nearly goes to blows, he sees Vlad dead and does the sign of the cross. He then turns to Radu. STEPHAN BATHORY You will not take him or any part of him. RADU But I must. STEPHAN BATHORY He is still your brother, and as such you will respect him, Take the head of someone else. We are taking him home! Radu realizing the words that Bathory has said, nods and decides. OTTOMAN SOLDIER But Prince, The Sultan... RADU If you do not keep quiet I will kill you, myself. OTTOMAN SOLDIER Yes, my lord. RADU Give them quarter and let them leave in peace, round up the men and the wounded and prepare to depart for the border. Call a general retreat. The Turk soldier fearful nods and calls out. OTTOMAN SOLDIER (O.S.) RETREAT! -- PULL BACK TO EDIRNE! -- RETREAT THE CITY IS LOST! 5 men pick up the body of Vlad and raise him shoulder high while Bathory, Stephan and Slav walk ahead of him. Radu is left standing their saddened. CUT TO: EXT. SNAGOV A MONESTARY ISLAND IN WALLACHIA - DAY Members of the royal court, Matthias, Ilona crying profoundly, Bathory dignitaries, family, and friends all come to Snagov for his burial. Narrator over Montage: Vlad Drakula II, A name that has withstood the test of time, the legacy he left behind was one of torture and bloodshed. In history men have tried to surpass him, but failed. The church condemned him, the Islamic world called him Seytan oglu (son of the devil), All of Europe has named him Tsepes (the Impaler), but the people of his country call him "Hero". Till this day what is now known as Romania he is revered as the country’s greatest leader. FADE OUT: THE END ( ROLL CREDITS) © 2011 Dino "Camora" ZonettiAuthor's Note
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Dino "Camora" ZonettiNew York, NYAboutI'm a Car salesman at a White Plains dealership, My love of writing has always been with me, but its not till recently I decided to pursue it for a possible career. more..Writing
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