MARLFOX

SCENE ONE:

:Dann, Song and a whole bunch of Redwallers, squirrels and shrews stare at where the tapestry of Martin should be.:

JANLUR

We have but one choice then... the tapestry must be retrieved! One of you must do this.

:The squirrel Rusvul shakes his head.:

RUSVUL

One does not simply walk after a Marlfox. They are hidden by more than just cloaks. They are an evil that does not sleep, ever watchful. They go to a barren wasteland, riddled in fire, and ash and dust. The very air they breathe is a poisonous fume. Not with ten thousand beasts could you do this. It is folly.

JANLUR

(Glaring at Rusvul.) Have you heard nothing I have said? The tapestry of Martin must be retrieved!

:The shrew that is acting as temporary leader for Log-a-log jumps forward.:

MAYON

And I suppose you think you're the one to do it!

RUSVUL

And if we fail, what then? What happens if we do not get back that which is ours?

:Everyone bursts out arguing. Dann stares for a long moment at the empty wall, and sounds seem to dim. Finally, Dann steps forward.:

DANN

I will go.

:No one pays him any attention, so he speaks louder.:

DANN (con't)

I will go!

:Silence falls and everyone stares at the young squirrel.:

DANN (con't)

I will bring back the tapestry... though, I do not know the way.

:Song comes up beside Dann, placing her paws on his shoulders.:

SONG

I will help you fulfill this task, Dann, as long as it is yours to fulfill.

:A young shrew dashes forward and stands by Dann.:

DIPPLER

I'm goin' too! You'll have to tie me up in a sack to stop me!

JANLUR

(Looking them over.) Three companions... very well, yours shall be the Fellowship of the Tapestry.

DIPPLER

Right! Where are we goin'?