Chapter 2

Scene One

Setting: Their living area

(James is hiding behind a large chair. Jane is sleeping. Richard is staring at his parent with shock.)

James(comes out from hiding place): Awesome, Rich! God I would just kill to be fighting in the war. Actually, I bet if I did, it would look great on my resume.(laugh and pat Richard on the back) Lighten up, Rich! You're gonna be out there kicking some Morth butt!

Mother(look like your about to cry, but stern at the same time): James!

James(turn to Mother): What? (turn to Richard) Those Morthians don't know what's coming!

Mother: (bursts into tears and half-collapses, half-sits on Dad's special chair. Cover face with hands.)

Richard(make a motion toward Mother): Ma?

James(hold up hands): You alright, Ma?

Father(look very serious and upset): James, go take a walk.

James: (leave house muttering things under his breath)

Father(very serious. turn to Richard): Richard, this is a very important choice, and not one to rush into. I'm afraid you don't have a choice about the Commander, but you may be able to have a job in the war that doesn't have as much action.

Richard(look serious): I know, Dad.

Mother(make yourself heard through your sobbing): Too young to be risking his life!

Richard: (Glance at Ma worriedly)

Father(ignore sobbing): That's why I've invited Paul to come.

James(burst through door): Paul?

Mother: (make sobbing grow louder)

Richard(look half shocked and half scared): Paul...