The Cards: The Rewriters of Fate - By Dayden Patillo
Written By: Dayden Patillo
Category: Script Writing: Full-Length-Play
Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026
Dayden Patillo, an imaginative scriptwriter, presents "The Cards: The Rewriters of Fate," a full-length play that delves into the intricate dance between fate and choice. This compelling script is part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, a platform that celebrates creative arts worldwide. Patillo's work takes readers on a journey through a mystical realm where characters must navigate trials of loyalty and love to alter their destinies. The narrative is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.
About the Work
"The Cards: The Rewriters of Fate" is a fascinating exploration of human agency versus predestined paths. Patillo crafts a world filled with vivid characters, each representing different facets of the human experience. The script is imbued with dramatic tension and rich imagery, drawing readers into a universe where the stakes are high and every decision counts. Through clever dialogue and intricate plot twists, the narrative challenges the audience to ponder the power of choice in shaping one's future. Patillo’s script is a masterful blend of suspense and philosophical inquiry.
The Cards: The Rewriters of Fate
Original Submission by Dayden Patillo
Patillo 1
The Cards: The Rewriters of Fate
By Dayden Tyrec Patillo
Contact:
Email: DaydenPatillo@icloud.com
Cell: 901-859-8060
Patillo 2
Synopsis
Fate, by definition, is the development of events beyond a person’s control. Choice is the act of deciding otherwise.
Which dictates humanity?
In this world, the Queen of Cards has been taken by the Ace. Now the Queen of Clubs, the King of Hearts, the King of Spades, and the King of Diamonds must navigate a dangerous series of trials if they ever hope to see her again. Bound by deep love and intense loyalty, they must draw correctly each time if they wish to survive the game. What they do not yet understand is that this story has unfolded before their time. Can the Cards be reshuffled? Only one way to find out.
Let the Cards be dealt!
Authors Note
I have written music for this show; however, it’s not necessary to understand the story. If you are interested in the music, links can be found at the end of the play.
Patillo 3
CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS ()= Female/Male equivalent name.
CELESTRA/QUEEN OF CLUBS(CELESTIN)
She is observant, introspective, and an artistic soul, working on her first book. She believes choice is power above all, and through her reflection, the story’s purpose comes into focus.
SUMMERLYN/QUEEN OF CARDS(SUMMER)
She is a woman with lots of wit and faith. She believes God will allow her and her friends to persevere through any situation they face. Even when stripped of all might, she refuses to succumb to the ways of the world.
REANGEL/KING OF HEARTS
He leads with emotion first and logic second, loving his friends more than anyone else in the group. He often puts himself in danger. His compassion is both his biggest strength and his most exploitable weakness.
ZYLEN/KING OF SPADES(ZYLA)
He is disciplined, guarded, and driven by responsibility despite everything else. He is the leader of the group and is willing to sacrifice himself so others don't have to. He is from New York and has a strong accent.
ATLAS/KING OF DIAMONDS(ATLA)
He is very theatrical and is also the soul of this group. He is loving and fiercely loyal, sometimes masking fear with humor and joy. He shows how hope itself can be a violent weapon. He is from South America and has a strong accent.
CRIMSON/BIG JOKER(CRIMSIA)
He believes society is like a deck of cards: everyone has their place, and just as a card's rank can never be changed, a person's place can never be changed. Charismatic and cruel, he treats people as cards to be played, discarded, and controlled.
NEVANTIKA/NOVA/ACE(NEVANTIK/NOVAN)
She thrives in chaos, manipulating others with cunning and violence. Deadly with knives and any weapon at her disposal.
TRAVOON/LITTLE JOKER(TRAVIA)
The kindness among the antagonist, yet his perfect pitch and sharp intuition make him unpredictable. Beneath his gentleness lies a cruel young man.
VALENCALITES/BASS, ALTO, and SOPRANO
Three ancient forces observing fate’s endless repeats, guiding and challenging both characters and audience alike? Their prescience is everlasting and can always be felt.
YOUNG CELESTRA(YOUNG CELESTIN)
Patillo 4
The young version of Celestra.
YOUNG SUMMERLYN(YOUNG SUMMER)
The young version of Summerlyn
WOMAN(MAN)
A mysterious young lady who takes a photo of the protagonist.
LEANGEL
He is the twin brother of ReAngel. He suspects that Summerlyn and his brother have feelings for each other.
ANGELICO(ANGELICA)
The youngest twin of Angelikin, he is playful and energetic, and thinks very highly of his older brother.
ANGELIKIN(ANGELIKISS)
The oldest twin of Angelico, he is supportive and sincere, and admires how strong ReAngel is.
WAITER(Waitress)
Plans to cause harm to the protagonist group.
CUSTOMER/LOCAL 1/2/3
A small group eager to see the protagonist eliminated.
LION
A vicious predatory beast who craves meat.
MASKED MAN(MASKED WOMAN)
A loyal agent to Crimson who is committed to completing his mission at all costs.
ENSEMBLE
The people of this town see Crimson, Nevantika, and Travoon as divine beings, ignoring the harm they inflict on outsiders.
Patillo 5
Scene 1- Prologue
(Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Act 1 Opening. The stage is decorated with festival decorations. Big and elaborate structures and designs are spread throughout. There is a platform above the stage where three golden chairs stand. This will be known as The Dealer’s Arena. The following sequence is a vision; the claps signify the images of each character but do not physically cause their demise. TRAVOON walks on stage with a spotlight following him and is about to speak until he is interrupted by CRIMSON. When CRIMSON speaks, the VALENCALITES go quiet.)
CRIMSON
Humans need a system of order; without it, they lose their place in this world. My job is to provide it.
(Noticing TRAVOON.)
TRAVOON (To himself)
You didn’t have to interrupt me.
(To audience)
Fate is already decided,
Destiny written in the cosmos
CRIMSON
King of Diamonds and King of Spades, it is your time.
(REANGEL walks in on the phone with LEANGEL.)
REANGEL
Make sure you feed Milo. Also, make sure he sleeps in my bed; he doesn’t like Mom and Dad's room. You should also send me three pictures of him every day. Okay… Okay… LeAngel?
(He looks at his phone, and he has been hung up on. ZYLEN enters in a police uniform, rambling to himself about a new detective game he just finished.)
ZYLEN
How did he figure out dat she was hidin in da basement? I don't understand. Come on, Zylen, think.
(Beat, noticing REANGEL.)
Whadda ya doin ova der, you aight?
REANGEL
Patillo 6
LeAngel better have fed Milo, or I'm gonna crash out.
(ATLAS runs on stage, doing all kinds of gymnastics tricks. ZYLEN is annoyed, and REANGEL is in awe.)
ATLAS
Those flips were perfecto, huh, hermanos.
REANGEL
Hell yeah, man.
ZYLEN
No.
(ATLAS laughs.)
ATLAS
I love you guys.
(He gives them both a big hug; REANGEL hugs him back right away; it takes ZYLEN a couple more seconds to reciprocate.)
ZYLEN
Aight, you get one hug.
(Hugs him.)
One–
(CRIMSON claps his hands. A red light shines on ATLAS, and on the projections, a King of Diamonds appears. ATLAS pulls away from the hug and looks down; all the life seems to have dropped from him. Quickly, a red light shines on ZYLEN, only this time a King of Spades appears. He pulls away from REANGEL, and just like ATLAS, all the life that had possessed this soul has left him. Beat. We hear two loud lightning strikes. ATLAS and ZYLEN proceed to clench their chest; the two let out a one-unison vicious scream, and then both fall forward. Beat.)
TRAVOON
Whatever you want, whatever you do,
It doesn’t matter!
CRIMSON
The King of Hearts will have a great slumber.
(CRIMSON claps his hands. The King of Hearts appears on the projections, following a gunshot that echoes across the stage. A red light shines on REANGEL, who is limping across the stage. Soon, he loses the strength in his legs and falls to the ground. Lights fade.)
Patillo 7
TRAVOON
The probability of winning…
Slim to none.
CELESTRA (Offstage)
All the stars are so perfect in their cosmic beauty. Each one is connected to another like a puzzle that continues to be solved by humanity.
(Beat.)
I wonder if I were a star, which one would I be?
CRIMSON
Queen of Clubs, let Heaven treat you kindly. Goodbye.
(CRIMSON claps his hands. The projections show a Queen of Clubs shining on CELESTRA as she walks on stage. She has bruises on her body, her clothes are torn, her hair is messy, and her posture is weak. We hear not screaming or agony but tears of sadness and defeat. Lights fade on her.)
TRAVOON
So die willingly to make the pain go away.
(A red light shines on SUMMERLYN. We see CRIMSON step forward and raise a gun to her forehead. CRIMSON smiles. Beat. Lights fade on TRAVOON and CRIMSON, and brighten on the five dead bodies on stage. Beat. Light arises on NEVANTIKA.)
NEVANTIKA
Enjoy the show, everyone!
(She jumps down with a folding fan with blades in her hand from the platform. She moves swiftly offstage.)
ALTO
I hate this ending.
(SOPRANO and BASS share a glance; they proceed to walk forward.)
SOPRANO
Come, daughter, let's show you how this fortune might come to pass.
BASS
Allow me to turn the pages.
Patillo 8
(The stage starts to shake all of a sudden, like they are bending reality. As this is happening, we hear–)
VALENCALITES
Enjoy the show… Enjoy the show… Enjoy the show… Enjoy the show… Enjoy the show…
(Voices start loud with ritualistic and ominous energy with elongated vowels. This chant should end as quietly as a whisper into the next scene.)
Patillo 9
Scene 2- The Calm Before The Storm
(Lights rise. Downstage right, there is a beach-style landscape, with the ensemble playing in the water, on the sand, etc. Downstage left, we see a sign for Natalie Vals Seafood and a small sign reading "free seating inside.” The center stage is a beautifully decorated car. The ensemble acts
as customers, chefs, and lively participants in all kinds of festival activities. We see CRIMSON from above, watching the scene unfold alongside TRAVOON. NEVANTIKA is hidden on stage, visible to the audience but not to our protagonist. A folding fan covers her. All of the protagonists enter. CELESTRA is staring at the night sky and drawing what she sees.)
ATLAS
Twelve years of pain and suffering— but look at us now. We can literally do it all, amigos. Hermanas y hermanos, el mundo está a nuestros pies.
(ATLAS starts to dance happily; this should feel over the top.
(CELESTRA giggles with cheerful laughter.)
ZYLEN
You realize dat we can't do everything right? We can't buy a gun license, we can't buy a CDL, we can't rent cahs, and we can't even buy alcohol.
ATLAS (Grabbing ZYLENS’ hands, starts to sing.)
But still, Zylen, everything is different now. The birds are singing, the–
(We hear the sound of a photo being taken. ATLAS, CELESTRA, and ZYLEN turn to see REANGEL holding his camera with SUMMERLYN standing right next to him. REANGEL shows SUMMERLYN the picture, and they exchange a glance. REANGEL proceeds to show the rest of the group the photo.)
CELESTRA
You're such a great photographer.
(She says, putting her notebook away in her bag.)
ATLAS
Heck yeah, fire.
(Theatrically.)
After all, he is the one and only ReAngel Jasper Kumba la segundo.
(REANGEL laughs.)
ZYLEN
Dis da place?
Patillo 10
(They see the car behind them.)
SUMMERLYN
It’s so pretty.
REANGEL
That’s it, alright, the famous car of the Hue Central. It’s one of the oldest and most legendary models ever.
(ATLAS notices CELESTRA continuously drawing in her notebook, and gets curious.)
ATLAS
What are you working on?
SUMMERLYN
I’m curious too, whatever it is, though it can't be more important than me. (The whole group looks at CELESTRA.)
ZYLEN
Sure, bout dat.
(They exchange a playful look.)
CELESTRA
Well, I’m working on my collection of poems. The book is all about the sky and the stars. I’m trying to figure out what I want the final poem to be. So the theory I have is that if I draw the stars and connect with them on a deeper level, I will not only come up with my final poem but also an actual title for it.
(Beat.)
Enough about that, though.
(She puts her notebook away.)
I can work on that later, I wanna spend time with you guys, you know what, let's all take a picture.
REANGEL
Yeah, let's do it.
ATLAS
Sí, I’m sure you’ll figure it out. After all, you are my best friend, and you can do anything and everything.
Patillo 11
(He hugs her. REANGEL sees a woman walking by.)
REANGEL
Could you take a photo of my friends and me?
(Long pause of silence. The WOMAN stares into REANGEL’S soul. The WOMAN then puts on an incredibly fake smile and nods. REANGEL gives her his phone.)
ZYLEN
I don like dat. At all.
SUMMERLYN
Agreed, hey ReAngel, if she steals your soul, give me your monthly allowance before you go.
ATLAS
Ambos, por favor, guarden sus pensamientos para sí mismos; she is taking our picture; be nice.
ZYLEN
Whateva.
(They get into position. WOMAN snaps the picture.)
REANGEL
Thank you, miss.
(REANGEL grabs his phone from the WOMAN. The WOMAN then walks away with no words, just a forced smile on her face. She stops and spits towards the direction of REANGEL.)
ZYLEN
You got a problem, lady?
(The woman continues to walk away. Lights dim on stage and shine on NEVANTIKA and the WOMAN. NEVANTIKA lowers the fan so we can see her eyes. She proceeds to nod, and the two nod in unison. Lights brighten back on the stage, and the WOMAN has made it off stage.)
SUMMERLYN
Something’s up with that woman, and it’s not just her horrendous hair.
ZYLEN
I don't know what her deal is, but she'd better watch it.
ATLAS
At least she took a good picture.
CELESTRA
Patillo 12
Why didn’t we just give her your camera, Angel?
REANGEL
I only trust my family with my camera.
CELESTRA
Fair.
ZYLEN
Ya’ll wanna get food and then head to the gym?
SUMMERLYN
We're on vacation; we're not going to the gym.
ATLAS
Wait, lowkey going to the gym on vacation would be peak.
REANGEL
I agree.
CELESTRA
I really wanna go to the beach.
SUMMERLYN
The beach sounds so fun.
REANGEL and ATLAS (In Unison.)
I’m really hungry.
SUMMERLYN
You three could get food. Me and sissy will go to the beach, then. We could meet after that.
ZYLEN
Meet at the gym?
CELESTRA and SUMMERLYN REANGEL and ATLAS
No! Yes!
SUMMERLYN
Let's save this conversation for later.
CELESTRA
Agreed. You ready?
SUMMERLYN
You know it!
Patillo 13
(The two sisters grab each other's hands and are about to start walking until—)
REANGEL
Summerlyn, can I talk with you real fast?
(REANGEL shares an intense glance at SUMMERLYN. SUMMERLYN understands this is important and walks away from CELESTRA to REANGEL. CELESTRA, ZYLEN, and ATLAS are talking among themselves. REANGEL gets a green bracelet out of his pocket and puts it in SUMMERLYN’s.)
REANGEL
You dropped it.
SUMMERLYN
Oh my gosh, thank you.
(She gives him a big hug; REANGEL hugs her back.)
REANGEL
She’s going to love it.
SUMMERLYN
I hope so.
REANGEL
I know so.
SUMMERLYN
Thank you. I would say be safe, but you're a black belt in Karate, so I think you’ll be just fine.
(The two stop hugging and share a smile. The two then proceed to exchange a unique handshake.)
REANGEL
I would lose my mind if something happened to you two, so be extra safe.
ATLAS
Can we go yet? Necesito comida; si no consigo nada, voy a explotar. Let's go!!!
CELESTRA
Such a baby, oh my gosh, Atlas. You're like the star UY Scuti.
(Beat. Everyone looks at CELESTRA, trying to understand.)
The biggest star there is.
Patillo 14
SUMMERLYN
Yeah, you boys get food… don't spend all your money.
(SUMMERLYN clearly is looking at ATLAS. Awkward silence.)
ATLAS
Shots fired from all directions, but hey, I make no promises.
(Both groups walk their separate ways.)
Love you guys, be safe.
(The following four lines happen simultaneously.)
CELESTRA
Love you guys more.
ZYLEN
Be careful.
SUMMERLYN
We love you, Atlas.
REANGEL
Take good photos.
(Both groups have gone offstage. The stage goes black on everything except NEVANTIKA, who is walking in the direction CELESTRA and SUMMERLYN went off. Blackout.)
ALTO
I gotta question.
SOPRANO
Yes, young one?
ALTO
If we already know how this tale ends, why are we watching this?
(Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 2. Blackout.)
Patillo 15
Scene 3- The Boys
(Lights rise on Natalie Vals Seafood and Dealers Arena. CRIMSON and TRAVOON are watching the story unfold. There is lively chatter from the ensemble in the background. The boys have been seated and are currently talking with the waiter.)
ZYLEN
Wit fries on da side, please.
WAITER
And for you, sir.
REANGEL
Can I get your lobster with extra shrimp?
Can you also make sure my food is cooked separately from any fish? I'm allergic.
WAITER
You're allergic, good to know. I’ll make sure that's separate. And lastly, for you, sir.
ATLAS
Alright, man, can I get your six pieces of catfish?
REANGEL
Hold on, dude, six?
ATLAS
With extra— extra— extra— fries and ketchup.
WAITER
I will have all those items right out to you all. I’ll make sure not to mix your stuff with the fish, sir.
(The WAITER does a sinister smile as he walks away.)
ZYLEN
You're da biggest dude I know, man.
ATLAS
Hey, I’m a Thespian. I'm allowed to be fat, am I right, ReAngel?
(Beat. ATLAS is looking for someone to laugh. Nobody does.)
REANGEL
Sure.
Patillo 16
ATLAS
Thanks, brother.
ZYLEN
Does being a Thespian also mean you get to wear pajamas all the time?
(ZYLEN chuckles. ATLAS is smiling.)
ATLAS
Yeah, it’s in the contract, very exclusive.
(ATLAS goes in for a fist bump. Beat. ZYLEN reciprocates, and they then blow it up.) Anyway, ReAngel, what made you choose this place?
REANGEL
Well, I believe there are many good places to visit that people just don't talk about. So I wanted to choose a spot that many people don't talk about, and that also fits our budget, because we're only eighteen and not made of money.
ATLAS
I get that. I'm happy Celestra and Summerlyn's padres trusted us with the van.
ZYLEN
Me too. I thought we were going to have to squeeze into your car.
REANGEL
Summerlyn seems like she’s having lots of fun, which makes me so happy. I remember last year, when we were talking about this trip, and how happy she was. She’s like a sister to me, and I love seeing her so joyful.
ATLAS
I love y’alls relationship. You know, it’s still crazy how you still wear the hat she gave you all those years ago, even though it's too small for you.
REANGEL
It’s a piece of me, one I won't let go of.
WAITER
Here is that food for you. I hope you enjoy it. We didn’t cook your food with the fish; I made sure of that.
(He puts down the boy's plates.)
ATLAS ZYLEN REANGEL
¡Muchas gracias! Thanks. I appreciate it, thank you again.
Patillo 17
ATLAS
You know, I usually have a Coke right now, but thanks to you guys, I'm drinking some good old water.
REANGEL
As you should, you would drink two a day.
(As REANGEL takes a bite out of his food. His throat starts to close up.)
ZYLEN
Hey, ya good?
(We see REANGEL grab ZYLEN for help.)
Stay with me, man. WE NEED A DOCTOR ASAP!
ATLAS
REANGEL! Look at me, LOOK AT ME, DUDE!
(REANGEL is trying to speak, but nothing is coming out. He then falls back onto the floor. We hear him grasping for air. The chatter stops when he hits the floor as the stage drops into darkness. Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 3.)
Patillo 18
Scene 4- Queen of Cards
(Lights come up on CELESTRA, SUMMERLYN at the beach with a tote bag. The two sisters are lying in the sand. CELESTRA is drawing as she and SUMMERLYN stare off into the night sky. Lights remain up on CRIMSON and TRAVOON, who are watching the scene. NEVANTIKA is in hiding, not visible to the sisters but visible to the audience. We hear a loud, sudden scream.)
TRAVOON
A flat, you can tell by the brightness and texture of the scream.
CRIMSON
Shut up, Travoon. I didn’t ask for that.
TRAVOON
Sorry sir.
SUMMERLYN
Someone doesn't need to bring their baby to the beach if they're going to scream like that. (We hear another scream.)
God, please make that baby quiet. This is why I’m only having one kid.
(CELESTRA laughs.)
CELESTRA
I’m gonna have the biggest family.
SUMMERLYN
Good luck with that, sis.
CELESTRA
I’ve actually already come up with names.
(SUMMERLYN laughs.)
SUMMERLYN
Can you believe we finished senior year and are now going to college?
CELESTRA
I'm so excited but so scared at the same time, you know. I was talking with ReAngel about how hard it is for artists to make it in this world. I need him to succeed. He loves photography and film so much that he needs to get accepted into the University of Austin.
SUMMERLYN
Patillo 19
He’s gonna make it in, and you're going to make it into Texas State University. Don’t be scared. God is always on our side; never forget that. And don’t worry about ReAngel because God has his back, too. Plus, if y’all don't get in, Zylen and I will riot. We already talked about it…
CELESTRA
What?
SUMMERLYN
Oh nothing!
(SUMMERLYN smiles.)
CELESTRA
You're being really optimistic; you've been hanging around Atlas too much.
SUMMERLYN
Maybe so, but I know you're not only going to survive in art school, but you're going to thrive. (The two sisters look at each other. Beat.)
CELESTRA
I smell fresh-baked pretzels wrapped in cinnamon, with a layer of juicy butter on top. I need to get one.
SUMMERLYN
Go ahead. I’ll watch your stuff.
CELESTRA
Thanks. Do you want one?
SUMMERLYN
Why not?
CELESTRA
Yeah! You won't regret it.
(Beat.)
I just got a flashback. Do you remember when Atlas ran out into the street to get ice cream from the truck, and Zylen saved his life?
SUMMERLYN
I only remember the part where his grandma started cursing Atlas and Zylen for going out into the street without her permission.
(They laugh.)
Patillo 20
CELESTRA and SUMMERLYN
Goodtimes!
(They share a glance and then CELESTRA walks away into the distance.)
SUMMERLYN
Zylen wouldn’t be happy about this, but nothing wrong with a sugary treat every once in a while.
(She looks over at her sister's artwork so far; she then closes her eyes and goes into prayer. During this prayer, we see NEVANTIKA slowly creeping up on SUMMERLYN.)
First, I want to say thank you. For letting my sister and me go on this trip. On another note, God, can you please, please, please help my sister believe in herself? Help her understand that she is a great artist and that no matter where she goes, I will be there for her. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
(She proceeds to look up at the night sky. SUMMERLYN senses danger and turns around quickly to see NEVANTIKA with a knife in her hand; stage lights turn piercing red.)
Who are you?
NEVANTIKA
I am the Ace, and I outrank you; therefore, you will do as I say.
(SUMMERLYN grabs a knife from the tote bag. She stands up and backs away.)
SUMMERLYN
You'd better watch yourself. I will take you down if you step closer.
NEVANTIKA
The Order of the Joker demands obedience.
(Beat.)
Queen of Cards, you'd better fall in line.
SUMMERLYN
Not happening.
(NEVANTIKA walks closer, SUMMERLYN strikes at her, but NEVANTIKA grabs SUMMERLYN’S arm and throws her to the ground. SUMMERLYN’S phone and the knife drop in the sand.)
NEVANTIKA
You’re better than that, aren't you?
Patillo 21
(SUMMERLYN gets up, tries to throw a punch, hits NEVANTIKA, but NEVANTIKA retaliates and punches SUMMERLYN in the face, sending her rolling on the ground. SUMMERLYN begins to run for her life, knowing she is outmatched. The two run off stage.)
LOCAL 1
I hope Nevantika catches up.
LOCAL 2
She is one of us, and she wouldn’t fail.
LOCAL 3
Soon, there will be one less visitor to worry about.
(CELESTRA walks in, eating a big bite of her pretzel.)
CELESTRA
Sis, this tastes so good like…
(Beat.)
Summer.
(She says, looking around.)
Sis.
(She notices SUMMERLYN’s phone on the floor. She drops both of the pretzels in shock.) SUMMERLYN!
(She screams in fear. Lights fade on the beach, then go black. Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 4. )
Patillo 22
Scene 5- Four Remain
(Lights shine on Natalie Vals Seafood, where we see REANGEL throwing up in the bathroom toilet; ATLAS is on the other side of the door with an EpiPen in hand; a line is also forming of people who need to use the bathroom. ZYLEN has made his way to the kitchen and is starting to yell at the chefs. On the beach, we see CELESTRA asking nearby beachgoers if they have seen her sister. Lastly, lights on the VALENCALITES but not the Dealers Arena.)
ATLAS
Thank God, ReAngel gave me this emergency EpiPen.
(REANGEL throws up–Heavy breathing follows.)
You okay in there, man?
REANGEL
I will be dont…
(Starts to gag.)
ATLAS (To himself.)
I hate seeing you like this, dude.
CUSTOMER 1 (Cruel)
Excuse me, I have to use the bathroom. Can you get your friend out of there? (CUSTOMERS get louder in annoyance and rage.)
ATLAS
I’m sorry he had an allergic reaction and…
CUSTOMER 2 (Mysteriously)
We don't care. You're not one of us, so why should we?
ATLAS
What's that supposed to mean?
CUSTOMER 3 (Threatening)
You know what, this doesn’t matter; you'll all be gone soon.
(Beat. The CUSTOMERS begin to disperse from the line.)
ATLAS
What do you mean… gone?
ZYLEN
Patillo 23
Which one of you bozos messed up my friend's order? When he specifically asked not to cook his food wit fish? Whichever one of you it was, I'm gonna beat da crap out of you, and after dat me and my paps are going investigate and shut down dis whole establishment—
(His phone starts to ring.)
Who could that be?
(Gets his phone out of his pocket, answers it.)
Celestra?
CELESTRA
Someone took Summerlyn. I don’t know who, I don't know why, but she is gone.
ZYLEN
Hold on, where are you? Are you safe?
CELESTRA
I’m still at the beach. A lady told me… she was taken, but that's all. I’ve been asking other people if they saw anything, but nobody is responding.
ZYLEN
It is not safe for you to be out there. Let's meet at the hotel. I’m going to get Atlas and ReAngel.
(He rushes out of the kitchen area, and the stage goes black on Natalie Vals Seafood. We hear sounds of chefs and customers laughing as the lights turn blue on the beach. CELESTRA, now walking away, sees a family holding hands. CELESTRA stops in her tracks and stares longingly. A white light appears center stage. We see a young CELESTRA and a young SUMMERLYN. Both are holding fall decorations in their hands.)
YOUNG SUMMERLYN
Random question: where do you think you'll be in ten years?
YOUNG CELESTRA
I don't know, but I do know we will always have each other. Plus, our friend group is like a big family. As long as we have that, I don't need to know, because everything will be okay with ya’ll.
(The two share a smile– lights fade on the young sisters.)
CELESTRA
And nothing is taking you away from us.
(Looking towards the night sky.)
You hear that, universe. I’m getting my sister back; wait and see.
Patillo 24
(Lights fade on CELESTRA and only shine on CRIMSON.)
CRIMSON
You’ll see the Card of Clubs.
Patillo 25
Scene 6- The Next Step
(The spotlight is currently shining upstage right, where we see the hotel. CELESTRA opens the hotel door and walks inside. CELESTRA has her phone in hand.)
CELESTRA
Hey, I made it back inside the hotel room. How far are you all?
(Beat of silence.)
Hello.
(She looks at her phone. The call is still going, but there's no sound from the other end. We hear TRAVOON laughing in the distance. We then see ZYLEN enter, followed by ATLAS, who is holding up REANGEL on his shoulder. REANGEL is still physically weak but feels way better than before.)
REANGEL
Thank you, Atlas.
ATLAS
Whatever you need, I’m gonna be there.
ZYLEN
Why did ya hang up? What if something happened?
CELESTRA
I didn't; my phone was glitching. Doesn’t matter; we need to call the police asap.
REANGEL (Pulls out his phone.)
I’ve already been trying. My phone isn’t working.
(ATLAS pulls out his phone.)
ATLAS
Same here; my phone isn’t even turning on.
ZYLEN
Someone is messing with our phones.
(ZYLEN goes towards his suitcase and starts to open it.)
CELESTRA
Well, we need to get them to work on calling the police.
ATLAS
How do you plan on doing that?
Patillo 26
CELESTRA (Angered)
I don't know, Atlas. I need to do something, okay.
REANGEL
What if she’s getting burned? What if they're abusing her?
(Beat.)
What if she gets shot and I’m not there to protect her?
(ATLAS cuts him off.)
ATLAS
Hey, everything is going to be okay, man, I promise.
REANGEL (Looks at ATLAS intensely.)
When I see this man or woman, I’m going to beat the fuck out of them. Nobody, and I mean nobody, is going to take my sister away from me. A special hell is coming, and I’m gonna be the one to initiate the flame.
(ATLAS puts his hand on REANGEL; REANGEL shrugs his hand off. Beat. We see a note come from under the door. ZYLEN notices it and walks over, and proceeds to pick it up.)
ATLAS
What's that?
ZYLEN
Let's read it.
(He unfolds the paper.)
Welcome to the Hue Central Games. Read carefully. My name is Crimson Scar, the leader of this land.
(Beat. CELESTRA and REANGEL come closer to get a better view.)
Two choices
Option one: also known as the smart option. Leave the town unharmed. Your friend will stay.
Option two: you face three trials of death for the chance to see her again. Phase one: head to the abandoned police station on Dichel Stone Road at West Twenty-Two Avenue. Your objective is to find part two.
The odds are not and will not be in your favor.
Patillo 27
Choose wisely, children.
This is my game…
The cards have been dealt.
(A light shines on CRIMSON, who is standing with two cards in his hand; he is frozen.) There’s also a drawing of the police station.
CELESTRA
So he has Summer, and he thinks this is a card game.
ATLAS
I got an idea: do we think it’s possible to leave the town, get help, and save her?
ZYLEN
He said dat we could leave unharmed, but he never stated what would happen to Summerlyn if we come back; way too significant of a risk.
REANGEL
What are we going to do? How are you not all in fear and dread?
ZYLEN
Because there’s no time for dat dude, I know y'all may not want to admit it, but the best thing to do if we want Summer back is option two.
ATLAS
Agreed.
ZYLEN
That’s what we have to do.
CELESTRA
Wow, hold on, Zylen. We can't face off these people on our own? The whole town isn't right; we need assistance. I don't know how to fight; I’m not that kind of person.
ATLAS
Miren, look, we don't have a choice. We are not leaving Summerlyn detrás. This world is trying to tear us apart, but I’m not going to allow it to. We’ve gotten into fights with others, people have tried to ruin our relationships, but nothing has stopped us before. This group is meant to be, and I’m not letting any fuerza break us apart.
(Beat.)
REANGEL
If I were taken, Summerlyn would do anything to get me back. I need to be brave just like she would be.
Patillo 28
CELESTRA
Look, we are no match against whatever we're dealing with. We're alone, we don't have weapons—
ZYLEN
Well, this is where being a child of the head of police comes in.
(His suitcase is open, and we see four weapons: two guns, a baton, a taser. Silence.)
CRIMSON (Now unfrozen.)
I told you.
(Lights shine on TRAVOON and NEVANTIKA, who are all in the Dealers Arena.) Fate is absolute.
(Lights go dark on Dealers Arena.)
REANGEL (Unfrozen)
Talk about preparation.
ATLAS
You’ve been waiting for this moment, I just know it.
ZYLEN
I know I’m gonna be just like him.
CELESTRA
Your dad would get in so much trouble if he saw this.
ZYLEN
Dad would be proud; Mom would be mad.
(Beat.)
Celestra, you take the gun; Atlas, you take the baton; I’ll take the other gun, and ReAngel takes the taser. Are we ready to head out?
CELESTRA
I don't think I should have a gun, and I also believe we are moving way too fast. And I don’t like fighting people.
(Beat.)
What if it comes down to me and I fail, I can’t have that—
Patillo 29
ZYLEN
Celestra, stop with that, okay. You're going to have to fight for your sister physically. It's inevitable. When that time comes, you need to be ready.
(CELESTRA gets quiet.)
Alright, let's not waste time; let's head out.
(ZYLEN exits, CELESTRA follows, but there is something off with her; ATLAS starts to head out—)
REANGEL
I’m sorry about earlier, I just…
(Gets cut off.)
ATLAS
Dude, I don’t care, just know that we got this and we will prevail.
(ATLAS hugs REANGEL. REANGEL is hesitant at first, but then reciprocates.)
REANGEL
I’m so scared…
(Beat.)
I want Milo.
(Blackout on REANGEL and ATLAS; lights shine a dark red on CRIMSON.)
CRIMSON
You should be.
(Lights fade on CRIMSON. Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 6.)
Patillo 30
Scene 7- A Meeting
(Lights rise on the VALENCALITES.)
ALTO
Being scared should be the least of their problems.
BASS
Hey, watch your tone.
ALTO
I don't understand. We’ve seen how this ends, and they all die. What they should have done was take the logical option and leave their friend, even though it would hurt. I just–
SOPRANO
Be quiet.
(Beat. Lights fade on the VALENCALITES and rise to SUMMERLYN, who is in the Dealers Arena. She is tied up against wood, held up by a rope. Lights also shine on CRIMSON, NEVANTIKA, and TRAVOON, who are watching SUMMERLYN, waiting for her to wake up. They are sitting in chairs, all except CRIMSON, who rests on his throne, which shines like a thousand red diamonds. They wait… and then SUMMERLYN wakes up in a panic. She looks around and notices the three antagonists.)
SUMMERLYN
Where are my friends?
(CRIMSON approaches her.)
CRIMSON
Worry about yourself.
(SUMMERLYN catches NEVANTIKA’S gaze.)
SUMMERLYN
If you lay hands on my sister, I will–
CRIMSON
Nobody did anything to your sister!
(Pulls a card out of his pocket.)
She’s gonna die just a matter of time.
SUMMERLYN
Excuse me?
Patillo 31
CRIMSON
Your friends had two options: they could leave, or stay here trying to rescue you. They chose the latter option. Usually, in my experience, out of nine low-lives, one will take the challenge.
SUMMERLYN
Research?
CRIMSON
Oh yes, we’ve done this too…
(Trying to remember the number.)
How many, Nevantika?
NEVANTIKA
They're the one hundredth group.
CRIMSON
This is set in stone. Most people decide to run away, but I had a feeling your group was… ambitious.
NEVANTIKA
It’s a tragedy, really. They choose to go through three obstacles in hopes of getting you back.
TRAVOON
Worst of all, they think you’ll all survive.
CRIMSON
After all these years, people continue to fight against the order I provide. What do you have to say about that, Queen?
SUMMERLYN
That is not my name, my name is–
CRIMSON (Feeling offended.)
This is my game, and I say you are Queen.
SUMMERLYN (To herself.)
God… please
(Beat.)
I don’t need this.
CRIMSON
You don't need what?
Patillo 32
(Beat.)
Do you want to die?
SUMMERLYN
I believe in my friends, and I know, with the power of God, we will make it out alive. God wouldn’t put people in situations that they couldn’t handle.
CRIMSON
So many people are like you, and you know what happened to them?
(Beat. Walks closer to SUMMERLYN, taunting her.)
They died, and so will you.
SUMMERLYN
You’ve never had a group like my friends; be prepared to lose this game.
CRIMSON
So confident. So innocent. You people make me sick. I can't wait to watch your whole deck of friends be obliterated and–
(Before he can finish, SUMMERLYN spits on him.)
TRAVOON
You shouldn’t have done that. Why are you making your suffering—
(Gets cut off.)
CRIMSON
Enough! Travoon, take this rope off her now.
(Beat.)
Cards that disrespect the Imperial Bower earn a front row seat… in silence. (CRIMSON Claps twice, and the stage goes black.)
Patillo 33
Scene 8- A Woman Named Nova
(Lights rise on ZYLEN and CELESTRA. ZYLEN is finishing up teaching CELESTRA how to use a handheld gun. ATLAS and REANGEL are downstage of them on the lookout for any pedestrians because they don’t want to get caught having a firearm in public. We still have some ensemble members on stage; however, the number is significantly lower than before. Tension is in the air, which makes ATLAS speak— )
ATLAS
You know what I just realized, dude?
REANGEL
What's up, man?
ATLAS
I knew we got this before, but now I’m so sure. The reason for that is that we’ve got a police officer's son, Ms. Artist, Mr. Black Belt, the weapon of faith, and a—
(ATLAS does an impressive flip in the air.)
We so got this. ¡Nosotros tenemos esto! ¡Nosotros tenemos esto!
(Beat.)
Nosotros tenemos esto
REANGEL (Laughing)
You’re not real, I refuse to believe it.
(Lights dim on these two and lights brighten more on ZYLEN and CELESTRA.)
ZYLEN
Then dis is how you pull da trigger.
(CELESTRA nods.)
Alright, your turn.
CELESTRA
Do I have to?
ZYLEN
Yes.
CELESTRA
But—
Patillo 34
(ZYLEN puts the gun in her hands.)
This isn’t me. I shouldn't have to do this.
(A moment of silence.)
ZYLEN
I’m not asking you to hurt innocent people. I want you to be able to defend yourself if someone tries to attack you.
(Beat.)
History has shown time and time again that when people are threatened— when their families are in danger—sometimes fighting back is the only option.
(Beat.)
I’m going to be the captain of the New York City Police Department one day, and what man would I be if I let something happen to my family because they weren’t prepared? My family is all of you. I need you to trust me, Celestra.
(Pause. Their eyes tell everything. Then we see a woman in a detective costume walking towards the group.)
CELESTRA
It’s not even that. What if I mess up and something bad happens—
REANGEL
Someone’s coming.
(CELESTRA puts the gun away. NOVA approaches the group. She is eccentric in every way, has a huge personality, and is over the top.)
NOVA
KIDS?!? Out at night, it’s so late! What on earth are you all doing?
(ZYLEN steps forward.)
ZYLEN
None of ya business.
ATLAS
Zylen.
REANGEL
No offense, lady, but we have places to be.
Patillo 35
NOVA
Well, I’m just here to tell you not to go inside that police station. I’m a detective on this conspiracy case of visitors disappearing, and we think we might have a lead.
CELESTRA
You're a detective, that's great—
ZYLEN (Clearly suspicious.)
Let’s move.
REANGEL
Do you have any identification?
NOVA (Loud and proud.)
Of course.
(Pulls out a badge.)
I’m the GREAT Nova Stone out of division 67.
ZYLEN
I’m going.
(ATLAS follows behind; they don't walk far.)
ATLAS
She’s suspicious.
ZYLEN
I know, proud of ya for picking dat up.
NOVA
If you find any information or know of anyone who has been kidnapped, let me know. I want to get a raise at work, and solving this case would be a huge step forward. Any information would suffice.
(She provides REANGEL with a business card. REANGEL stares at it and hesitates, then proceeds to take it. Beat)
Have a great night, and a DIVINE night, children!!!
CELESTRA
Fun fact: a Nova is a star that suddenly increases in brightness and slowly returns to its original state.
Patillo 36
REANGEL
And here we go…
(ZYLEN shakes his head.)
ATLAS
Goddess and Gods of stars tener compasión.
CELESTRA
Sorry, that was an instinctive move.
(REANGEL is staring at the card. Beat.)
ZYLEN
Please don’t talk to randoms; she could be a Crimson spy.
(Beat.)
Ready?
ATLAS
Yeah, we gotta look for a clue, simple.
REANGEL
It won't be that easy.
CELESTRA
I’m sure there are traps and all kinds of stuff inside, so we need to watch each other's backs. (All look and acknowledge each other with a unison nod.)
ZYLEN
We can do this.
(Lights will shine a crimson red on the Dealers Arena. We see CRIMSON watching the cast with a bag of popcorn, with SUMMERLYN right next to him. With arms tied up and her mouth taped, unable to speak.)
CRIMSON
This is getting pretty good, isn’t it, Queen?
(We hear SUMMERLYN making indistinguishable noises. Lights go dark. Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 8.)
Patillo 37
Scene 9- The Station
(The station is your typical run-of-the-mill police house, except the walls have different card suits all over them, and there is a huge timer on the wall inside. There is a flight of stairs leading up to the police station. As soon as the scene begins, it starts at one hour and continues to count down from there. Lights up on the Dealers Arena, where we see CRIMSON with SUMMERLYN by his side, with tape covering her mouth, and TRAVOON stage left of CRIMSON, watching. But NEVANTIKA nowhere in sight…)
ZYLEN
Spread out. Look for clues.
CELESTRA
Hold on, look at that.
(CELESTRA points at the huge timer.)
ATLAS
Why is it counting down?
REANGEL
It might be how much time we have left until something bad happens.
ZYLEN
C’mon, let’s make it happen.
(ZYLEN heads off for the case binders, so he goes behind the police counter to search. (CELESTRA gets her notebook out of her backpack and studies the walls.)
ATLAS
I’m going to go out and check the parameters.
REANGEL
Dude, the paper we were given said to go inside the police station, not outside.
ATLAS
In every horror movie Summerlyn and I watched, there was always a clue that everyone missed because nobody decided to go outside the box.
REANGEL
Just be careful. I can't let you get kidnapped; then I definitely would lose my mind.
ATLAS
Brother, nobody wants me that badly. Trust me.
Patillo 38
(ATLAS departs for outside of the station while REANGEL starts to look under the chairs that are present for any clues. The timer ticking gets progressively louder. Beat. Everyone is in their own world investigating until ZYLEN breaks the silence.)
ZYLEN (Setting down some papers on the desk.)
This is what I’ve gathered.
(CELESTRA and REANGEL redirect their attention towards him.)
REANGEL
That was fast; not surprised, though. You are Zylen.
ZYLEN
He’s using fear tactics on us to scare us into submission. Let me explain the cases I have found are only related to him, and not to anyone else.
REANGEL
That's not possible, right?
ZYLEN (Picking up a case.)
Exactly my point. This case from December 13th, 2019, states that Crimson put a woman named Agnese in a gas chamber because she refused to leave her husband behind in Hue Central.
(ZYLEN shows a picture that was in the file. It's a picture of Agnese dead in the gas chamber.)
There are many more like this. All of the cases here are just about him torturing visitors and travelers.
CELESTRA
My question is, why though? Why do this in the first place?
(Beat.)
REANGEL
I don’t get that either. What do you gain from killing people?
ZYLEN
Not tryna to be dat guy, but dat doesn’t matter right now; we're on da clock. Adding to what I was sayin earlier, police stations keep only da most recent cases of dat year at da front desk, wit older cases in da back. He’s been to dis police station, and it’s safe to say everything’s been tampered wit.
REANGEL
Of all those cases, has anyone survived?
Patillo 39
ZYLEN
No. Dat doesn’t matter, though. Every group is different; just because the ones before didn’t escape with their lives doesn’t mean we're doomed to da same fate as they are.
(Beat. Lights shine red on CRIMSON.)
CRIMSON
I beg to differ; history always repeats itself, and the cards have already spoken for you. (Lights dim on CRIMSON.)
ZYLEN
Let’s keep being productive.
(He continues to look at the case binders. CELESTRA is still staring and analyzing the walls.)
CELESTRA
Hey Zylen.
(Beat. This time it is said louder. ZYLEN is too focused and doesn't even notice CELESTRA calling him.)
Hey Zylen!
(Longer beat.)
Hey! Zylen! Earth to Zylen. Whatever.
(Beat.)
Maybe you can help me, Angel.
REANGEL
What’s going on?
CELESTRA
So I’ve been looking at these walls and noticing some patterns. Around every Ace card, there are hearts, diamonds, spades, and clubs surrounding it.
(CELESTRA is pointing to the wall.)
REANGEL
I didn’t notice that before, but yeah.
CELESTRA
Now look.
Patillo 40
(She points to an Ace on the wall by itself.)
That’s out of place. I believe this is on purpose. Can you look around and tell me if you see any spades, diamonds, clubs, or hearts that look different from the rest?
REANGEL
Of course.
CELESTRA
Thank you. I appreciate you a lot, Angel. We're going to find her.
REANGEL
Yeah, we are. She really is lucky to have you as a sister.
CELESTRA
And we're lucky to consider you the brother we never had.
(Beat. ZYLEN looks up from the case binders.)
ZYLEN
Are you two working? We have thirty-five minutes left. Let's get cracking.
(CELESTRA and REANGEL glance at the clock, look at each other, and then get right back to investigating. ATLAS is still walking around the perimeter, but he stops in his tracks all of a sudden. He stares at the ground.)
ATLAS (To himself.)
What’s that smell…?
(Beat. He sits on the ground and starts digging with his hands.)
I really hope this leads to something. I wonder how Summerlyn’s doing? I’m sure she’s fine; she wouldn't want us to worry about her. She always said, “God wouldn’t put you in situations that you couldn’t handle.”
(Beat.)
I remember when I was younger, people would bully me and push me around. You would always be the first to stand up for me, even when I couldn't stand up for myself. I thought I would never get out.
(Pause. Near crying.)
I know… I know everything is going to be great in the end… right?
Patillo 41
(Coughs violently, eyes watering. He looks down at the partially uncovered floor and sees three jail bars.)
Something’s down there, but I can't see what it is, but it smells like gasoline. What the hell. I gotta tell the others; he’s trying to light this place up.
(We see ATLAS run inside the police station.)
REANGEL
Found the card of the clubs. It was behind the chair.
ATLAS
Guys, I found a floor up under this one, but it smells like gasoline.
REANGEL
Gasoline?
ZYLEN
That’s the game: if we don't find part two of the letter or run away, he’s going to blow this whole building up.
CELESTRA
Atlas, look up under your feet.
ATLAS
What?
(He looks up under his feet, and the spade is faintly glowing red.)
CELESTRA
I bet that if we find all the card pieces, it will lead to a secret passage under this floor that will allow us to see part two. Sounds crazy, but it’s worth a shot.
REANGEL
We have all the pieces except the diamond.
ZYLEN
There's a diamond symbol under dis counter over here.
CELESTRA
Zylen! Why didn’t you say that before?
ZYLEN
I was too locked in on the cases; I’m sorry, guys.
REANGEL
Patillo 42
You’re fine, dude.
CELESTRA.
Let’s all step on one card. I hope this works.
(Everyone steps on a card on the floor. Awkward silence. Suddenly, the floor starts to shake a little, and a secret passage emerges on the wall.)
I knew it was a secret passage.
(They all walk towards the passage.)
REANGEL
Definitely gasoline, but that’s the only way forward.
ZYLEN
We have to be in and out fast.
(They look at the clock with ten minutes remaining.)
ATLAS
We gotta hold our breaths.
CELESTRA
For as long as we can.
(They all look at each other, scared but ready to venture forth into the unknown.)
ALL
Let’s go.
(Blackout. Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 9.)
Patillo 43
Scene 10- The Fire
(Lights come up on the timer with ten minutes remaining. The lights dim on the timer, revealing our protagonists on the basement floor. This is the security floor. There are cameras mounted everywhere, and it's very slippery from the gasoline. A red light shines on CRIMSON, TRAVOON, NEVANTIKA, and SUMMERLYN as they watch the game unfold. SUMMERLYN’S eyes are closed. She is praying and not watching the reality in front of her. Throughout the scene, we hear the timer ticking as haze begins to appear, growing heavier as it progresses. The lights start white, then yellow, then orange haze, then dark orange, and finally red flashes. )
ZYLEN
Speak only if necessary.
(They all nod and start looking for the paper. ZYLEN is checking the Storage Compartments; CELESTRA is checking the monitors and screens; ATLAS and REANGEL are checking under coffee mugs, radios, sticky notes, etc. There is silence until ATLAS and CELESTRA start coughing. ATLAS's cough is the heaviest and most haunting of them all. We see REANGEL ask ATLAS and CELESTRA if they're okay through a mutual symbol. They reciprocate. ATLAS feels dizzy and leans against the wall. He proceeds to look up at the ceiling.)
ATLAS
Up…
(Abruptly coughing.)
there!
(ZYLEN, CELESTRA, and REANGEL look at the ceiling. They see a piece of paper hanging from the top. By this time, REANGEL and ZYLEN are starting to cough slightly.)
CELESTRA
Okay, but how do we get it down?
ZYLEN
I’ll be the base, ReAngel gets on top of me, and Celestra gets on top of him. Atlas, I need you to guide us.
CELESTRA
Are we sure that’s a good idea?
REANGEL
It’s the only thing we got; there’s no ladder or anything we can climb up on that can reach up there.
(Coughing louder.)
ATLAS
Patillo 44
I’m not trying to be mean, but stop talking.
(Everyone silently agrees. ZYLEN plants his feet firmly on the ground and then signals REANGEL to climb on top of him. REANGEL is struggling to find his balance as he coughs; ATLAS gives him the okay, and ATLAS proceeds to spot CELESTRA as she climbs on top of the boys. Lights shine on ZYLEN, who is starting to cough a terrific amount, and for once, we see him struggling; he’s scared for the first time. We hear a ZYLEN voice-over representing his inner thoughts. “Please, please, please, I need them all to survive.” Lights shine on everyone again.)
CELESTRA
I’m not tall enough; I’m gonna need to jump and get the paper.
(The human tower starts to wobble a little.)
ZYLEN
Be still.
REANGEL
Celestra, that’s too dangerous; you could fall.
CELESTRA
Atlas will catch me.
ATLAS
Obviously.
ZYLEN
Hurry.
(REANGEL lets go of CELESTRA'S legs, and she jumps for the paper. She grabs it, but as she comes down from the air, we hear a scream from her. Lights go blue, then lights brighten again.)
ATLAS
Why did you scream?
CELESTRA
I don’t like heights, you know that.
(REANGEL gets off of ZYLEN.)
ZYLEN
Move out.
(Lights rise on the timer that has one minute remaining. All four of them run to the exit. As REANGEL is running, we see his hat fall off, but he doesn’t notice because he is in a big rush to
Patillo 45
escape. All four of them make it out of the police station alive. As soon as the timer clicks zero, NEVANTIKA snaps her hands and the station lights on fire.)
ATLAS
We did it! Guys were so tough. I'm so proud of us.
(They all share a group hug.)
CELESTRA
Angel, where’s your hat?
(REANGEL pats his head and notices it’s gone.)
REANGEL
It has to be inside!
ZYLEN
No. I know what you're thinking, no.
(ZYLEN tries to grab REANGELS 'hand. Beat. They lock eyes.)
REANGEL
I’m sorry.
(He makes a run for the station.)
ZYLEN
Angel!
(ZYLEN runs after him.)
ATLAS
Stop both of you!
(ATLAS proceeds to run after them.)
CELESTRA
All of you stop before you get killed.
(Beat. Lights dim on them and shine red on CRIMSON.)
CRIMSON
And that’s precisely what's about to happen.
(Blackout. Intermission.)
Patillo 46
Scene 11- Summerlyn and ReAngel (Flashback)
(Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Act 2 Opening. A spotlight arises center stage, and we see a REANGEL lying in a hospital bed. He is not wearing his hat, and we can see his patchy, bald hair. Upstage of the bed, we see three chairs, with ANGELICO sitting and ANGELIKIN standing right next to him. Silence.)
ANGELIKIN
You're powerful, ReAngel.
(REANGEL doesn’t respond.)
ANGELICO
Of course, he’s our brother! Literally, he's the coolest guy I know.
REANGEL
Where’s this coming from?
ANGELIKIN
It’s just that you’ve been through so much, but you still make time for us, you still help us with schoolwork, and you help us stay out of trouble.
(ANGELICO walks over to REANGEL.)
ANGELICO
ReAngel can do it all, which is why he’s my favorite older brother.
(ANGELICO picks up his arm and flexes it for him.)
Nothing beats him.
(REANGEL chuckles a little.)
REANGEL (To himself.)
I hope y’all are right.
(Focus pulls to SUMMERLYN and LEANGEL as they walk on stage.)
SUMMERLYN
Thank you for doing this.
LEANGEL
Of course, it’s the least I can do for the little guy; he wants to see you all really bad. I know you wanna see him most of all.
Patillo 47
(LEANGEL smirks.)
SUMMERLYN
Shut up, LeAngel. This isn’t the time for your shenanigans. And what do you mean, y’all are less than a minute apart.
(SUMMERLYN opens the door and finds REANGEL's eyes, and they share a smile.)
ANGELICO and ANGELIKIN
Summerlyn!!!
(The twins jump onto her. She picks them up and spins them around.)
SUMMERLYN
How are my favorite twins doing?
(She says, setting both of them on the floor.)
ANGELICO and ANGELIKIN
Good!!!
LEANGEL
Let’s give Summerlyn and ReAngel some alone time.
ANGELICO and ANGELIKIN
Okay, bye, Summerlyn. We love you.
(They hug SUMMERLYN'S legs, and then they exit the stage. LEANGEL looks at REANGEL, then proceeds to look at SUMMERLYN. He raises his eyebrow and smirks. He exits.)
REANGEL
For someone who doesn’t want many kids, you sure are good with them.
SUMMERLYN
They are like little brothers to me, two different things.
REANGEL
Sureeeeee!
(They laugh. SUMMERLYN proceeds to sit on the hospital bed.)
SUMMERLYN
How do you feel?
(Beat.)
Patillo 48
REANGEL
All I know is that when I go back to school, I’m going to get talked about and laughed at. When I look in the mirror, I don’t even see ReAngel anymore.
(Beat.)
I hate the way I look.
SUMMERLYN
Hey, don’t say that.
REANGEL
It’s the truth; I look like a wild animal. The doctor said I’m just going to get worse. (Beat.)
SUMMERLYN
Everything will get better; with God, it always does.
(Beat. She gives him the bag.)
REANGEL
Did you mess up again? You know my birthday is in June; Zylen is the one who has a birthday this month.
SUMMERLYN
That happened four years ago. I wouldn't make the same mistake again. Don’t think I forgot about when you remembered it was my birthday, but not Celestra's, even though we’re born on the same day.
REANGEL (Whispering)
Are you pitying me?
SUMMERLYN
I know what you need right now.
(Beat. REANGEL hesitates but then picks up the gift. It is a red-themed crocheted hat with cameras engraved in the design. On the very front is a picture of REANGEL’S parents and brothers, along with SUMMERLYN, CELESTRA, ZYLEN, and ATLAS. There is also a University of Austin symbol on the back of the hat.)
I know you're ashamed of how you look right now, and although I think you look good, I want you to have confidence in yourself.
(Silence. REANGEL abruptly gives her a tight hug. Beat.)
Patillo 49
Are you trying to kill me?
REANGEL
Sorry.
(He loosens up.)
SUMMERLYN
I’m just messing with you; it’s one of my favorite things to do.
(They hug just a tad bit more, and then they break away.)
And that’s not all; Atlas is on the way with Milo, with Zylen and Celestra.
REANGEL
Atlas? Driving my Milo? He doesn’t drive the speed limit. Why would Mom and Dad let Atlas pick him up? Atlas is a maniac on the road.
SUMMERLYN
Exactly, which means Milo will be here before you know it.
REANGEL
I’m gonna crash out on Atlas if anything happens to Milo.
(SUMMERLYN laughs. The lights dim, illuminating only REANGEL. He is staring at the hat; he proceeds to pick it up, hesitates, smiles, and then proceeds to put it on his head.)
As long as I have the love of my loved ones, I can keep pushing forward—which means there’s always a way forward, even if it doesn’t seem that way at first.
Patillo 50
Scene 12- The Aftermath
(Lights rise on the VALENCALITES.)
ALTO
Dead in a fire.
(Beat.)
All they had to do was run away.
BASS
Is that what you think?
ALTO
That’s what we’ve just witnessed.
SOPRANO
Is it?
ALTO
What are you both—
(We hear loud coughing.)
No way.
CELESTRA (To the world.)
I can’t lose them. I need my family.
(Beat. To herself.)
What if they need my help? I’m just standing here. I need to act.
(CELESTRA is trying to move, but her body isn’t allowing it. She is twisting and turning, but her body isn’t being obedient.)
Why can’t I move? Come on. PLEASE!
(She hears coughing and footsteps. Beat. She proceeds to see REANGEL, hat in hand, alongside ZYLEN and ATLAS. REANGEL has a couple of leg burns, ZYLEN has a large burn on his forehead, and ATLAS has severe burns all over his body; his shirt is torn, and he is slightly limping.)
I’m so happy you guys are okay, and you have the hat.
(She starts running towards them.)
Patillo 51
Is there anything I can do?
ZYLEN
Give me and ReAngel a moment, please.
CELESTRA
Yeah, go ahead.
ATLAS
Do you have any water?
CELESTRA
Of course.
(She gets water out of her bag.)
ATLAS
Thanks, twin.
(He is about to pour water on his burns.)
CELESTRA
Won’t that hurt you?
ATLAS
It helps, thank you again.
REANGEL
I’m—
ZYLEN
You need to be more careful; I’m gonna glue dat hat to ya head. You could have died; we could have died.
(Taking a breath.)
I know dat hat means a lot to you, but it’s not worth your life. Nothing can compare to your life, you hear me.
REANGEL
I’m so sorry; I should have been more cautious and aware. And I got you and Atlas hurt when you could have been killed. I–
ZYLEN
Patillo 52
No, we chose to go because we weren’t gonna let our homeboy get himself killed. You're my ride or die, so are Atlas, Celestra, and Summerlyn. I don't care dat I got burned; I'm just glad you're okay and dat I’m still here with you all.
REANGEL
I’m going to give my hat to Celestra and ask her if she can put it in her bag only until this mess is all over, so that I can’t lose it again.
(Beat. They smile at each other.)
Love you, bro.
ZYLEN
Love ya more.
(ATLAS abruptly, he puts his hands on their shoulders)
ATLAS
I love you both so much more than you’ll ever know.
ZYLEN
Aight, dat’s enough
(REANGEL laughs.)
CELESTRA
I have water for you both.
(She hands each of them a water.)
REANGEL
Thank you. I appreciate it.
ZYLEN
Thanks.
(Silence.)
What’s the second clue?
CELESTRA
Don’t you all need to sit down and rest?
ZYLEN
We’ll be fine.
Patillo 53
ATLAS
Got that right, we’re so strong.
(Theatrically)
We’re like Los Panchos!
REANGEL
Summerlyn would keep pushing if it were us, so I say we press forward. Go ahead, Celestra. (CELESTRA hesitates and then pulls the paper out of her pocket.)
CELESTRA
Congrats, I guess. Go to Travoons Many Paths, located on Rafiq Leo Road. Soon, the cards will be shuffled. Still up for the challenge? There's a drawing of the building.
(Silence)
REANGEL
Hell yeah, we are.
ATLAS
Come on, familia.
(They start walking offstage.)
ZYLEN
Celestra does have a point: our burns are second-degree. I understand if we need to stop along the way; it just has to be quick. Atlas, you have it the worst, so you need to be extra careful?
(ZYLEN, ATLAS, and REANGEL are offstage.)
ATLAS
I will.
CELESTRA
Let's get some more water and see if we can find a first-aid kit, possibly. (To herself.)
They’re all working so hard and pushing through when my time comes.
(Beat.)
I need to be ready.
Patillo 54
(Blackout.)
Patillo 55
Scene 13- Crimson and Summerlyn
(Red lights rise on the Dealers Arena. CRIMSON is sitting on his throne, furious. TRAVOON is standing next to him while SUMMERLYN is still on the floor with tape covering her mouth.)
CRIMSON
Travoon, go.
TRAVOON
Yes, sir, don’t worry, I’ll make sure to put an end to—
CRIMSON
I said go!
(TRAVOON looks at CRIMSON. Beat. He exits. CRIMSON rises from his throne.) My order is flawless; everything will be fine.
(He picks up a deck of cards located on his throne.)
You don’t change a deck—
Just like you can’t alter destiny.
History will repeat.
(SUMMERLYN mutters something which gets CRIMSON’S attention. Beat. He looks at SUMMERLYN and smiles. He proceeds to walk towards her. He rips the tape off.)
Yes, Queen of Cards.
SUMMERLYN
Is that why you think we’re gonna fail?
CRIMSON
History is the sum of every choice and failure.
SUMMERLYN
You're more insane than a bear on steroids.
CRIMSON (Angered)
I can put this right back on.
(Waving the tape in the air.)
You’re delusional. There have been so many minority groups who have been discriminated against in the past, and although we’ve had revolutions, it still exists.
SUMMERLYN
Patillo 56
If people collectively want things to change, it will happen.
CRIMSON
A society bonded in purpose? Impossible.
(Beat.)
Fear is the sharpest weapon. I will exacerbate it to my advantage.
SUMMERLYN
When you have five great souls of God who refuse to give up and keep fighting no matter what, you’ll for sure win against the devil. We write our own destiny.
CRIMSON
Stop talking. I've had enough—
SUMMERLYN
Why? Because you know I'm right—
CRIMSON
THIS ISN’T A GAME! Have you forgotten?
(He pulls out the bracelet SUMMERLYN made for her sister. SUMMERLYN stares at the bracelet. Beat.)
I will break this.
(Beat.)
That's what I thought; don’t forget who’s in charge.
(Silence.)
SUMMERLYN (To herself, whispered.)
Oh, it’s a game.
(Beat.)
It’s just one you're about to lose.
(Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 13.)
Patillo 57
Scene 14- A Night In The Stars (Flashback)
(Spotlight rises on the stage. There is a small campfire set up. We hear the sizzling of the fire throughout the scene. ZYLEN is melting a marshmallow over the fire while CELESTRA is staring at her notebook. The ensemble is backstage, making forest noises. A moment of silence.)
ZYLEN
Do ya want me to roast you a marshmallow?
CELESTRA
Yeah, if you don’t mind.
ZYLEN
Of course.
(Beat.)
What are ya workin on?
CELESTRA
I think I know what I want my first book to be about.
ZYLEN
Let me hear it.
CELESTRA
Could you do me a favor and look up at the stars?
ZYLEN
Aight.
CELESTRA
There are millions of them, and each star represents something different. When we were younger, remember how Atlas’s dad would take us on hotshot truck deliveries with him.
ZYLEN
I miss dat, it’s wild how his dad owns the whole business.
(Beat.)
CELESTRA
I loved watching the stars at night. They were always so special. I've been trying to come up with a theme, and I think I've got it.
ZYLEN
I know dis is bout to be fire.
Patillo 58
(CELESTRA chuckles.)
CELESTRA
Stars represent different paths and possibilities, each with its own story. That’s what I want my book to be about—each one with its own grand story to tell. The limits are endless.
(ZYLEN hands her the roasted marshmallow.)
What do you think?
ZYLEN
I think you're terrific. In da world we live in, it’s easy to believe dat everything is predetermined, but it’s only valid if you want it to be.
CELESTRA
I know, right? You get me, Zylen.
(Pause.)
I hate seeing people feel like there’s no way out or only one path to success. (Beat.)
When you first came here from New York, I remember you telling me you didn't think you'd make friends. But you let me, ReAngel, Summerlyn, and even Atlas, which, by the way, I know he’s your favorite, even if you don’t want to admit it.
(They laugh.)
ZYLEN
Don’t tell him dat, his ego might get too big.
(ZYLEN begins to roast another marshmallow.)
I know I don’t show it enough, but I do love you all. I’m trying to get better at expressing it; it’s whateva though.
CELESTRA
There’s no doubt in my mind; I’m sure you will. We’re only fifteen right now, but by the time you're eighteen, I’m sure you’ll be so much better at it.
ZYLENS
Thanks.
(Beat.)
Patillo 59
CELESTRA
Zylen, I need people to know what this world has to offer, and I need to tell them that through stars.
ZYLEN
You should do it, share your vision.
CELESTRA
You know what the first star I'm going to write about is? Antares. You remind me of that one—someone who is a leader and protector. I was struggling with what to write first, but now I know. Thanks, Zylen.
(Beat.)
CELESTRA and ZYLEN
Stars are different paths— each one with its own grand story to tell.
CELESTRA
That was weird.
ZYLEN
Agreed.
(ZYLEN smiles at her as she dazes off into the stars, as she continues to write. He watches her— proud, admiring.)
Patillo 60
Scene 15- Travoon The Little Joker
(Lights rise on the VALENCALITES. Silence.)
ALTO
They shouldn’t have made it this far, but there are always those who make it further than others.
BASS
Now you’re understanding.
SOPRANO
Oh, precious, it makes me happy to hear you say that.
ALTO
This group dies in the second; that’s where I went wrong.
BASS and SOPRANO
Be tolerant.
BASS
Not every ending is decided.
SOPRANO
And not every ending is as it seems.
(Lights dim on VALENCALITES. The lights open on the entire stage. There is a carnival-themed tent, wide open to the audience, titled Travoon’s Many Paths. There is a bench close to the tent. TRAVOON is leaning inside the tent, fiddling with his thumbs, and he is humming a mysterious tune. ZYLEN, ATLAS, REANGEL, and CELESTRA walk on stage. Beat. They see the tent.)
ZYLEN
Dat’s definitely it. How we feelin’?
ATLAS
I’m way better than before, that’s for sure. Thank you, ReAngel.
REANGEL
Of course, dude, sneaking into a store and retrieving a first-aid kit is the least I can do for you. (Beat.)
I’m sorry again.
ATLAS
Don't worry
Patillo 61
(Silence. Noticing REANGEL still looking a little sad.)
Who knows, all the college girls will be all over me. Who knows, you might even get a girlfriend, ReAngel.
(REANGEL gives him a faint smile because he knows he was trying to lighten the mood, but it didn’t.)
ZYLEN
Celestra?
CELESTRA
I’m doing well.
ZYLEN
I’ve been meaning to tell ya something.
CELESTRA
Yeah?
ZYLEN
Remember, I was teaching you how to use a gun?
(CELESTRA nods.)
I’ve been thinking about what to say to you about dat. You’re not bound to be in fear; if you want change, you have to fight for it.
(Beat.)
Don’t forget that.
(CELESTRA abruptly hugs him. He hugs her back immediately. They break away. They smile. Beat.)
Fall in.
(They follow behind ZYLEN as they make their way over to the tent. ZYLEN walks steadily with his friends behind him. Beat, humming is beginning to feel the stage.)
CELESTRA
What’s that?
ATLAS
I’m scared.
Patillo 62
REANGEL
I wonder why the tent is wide open.
(Beat.)
ZYLEN
I can go in first, and I’ll give you guys the okay to follow.
CELESTRA
What, we're not letting you go in there by yourself.
ATLAS
Not happening.
REANGEL
I’m gonna come with ya.
(TRAVOON hearing them outside, unfazed.)
TRAVOON
It’s not that deep; you all can come into the tent.
(The four protagonists share a glance and proceed to walk inside. ZYLEN proceeds to aim the gun at him.)
ZYLEN
Does dat mean you’re Crimson?
REANGEL, ATLAS, and CELESTRA
Where is Summerlyn?
TRAVOON
Put the gun down. You'd better watch how you approach me.
ZYLEN
How do we know ya don't have a gun we can’t see?
TRAVOON
You have to trust me.
CELESTRA
And why would we do that?
(TRAVOON is smiling and is humming musically. Beat. ATLAS goes over to ZYLEN and whispers in his ear.)
Patillo 63
ATLAS
We have the upper hand. We have two guns if we need them, but this guy doesn’t seem like a threat, and we're wasting time by doing this; he’s not charging at us.
(Beat. ZYLEN lowers his gun.)
TRAVOON
Was that so hard? I am not Crimson; I’m the Little Joker, but you can all call me Mr. Perfect Pitch. I also don’t know who your friend is.
CELESTRA
She’s a girl who looks very similar to me, same hair, same eyes.
REANGEL
I don’t freakin beleive you.
TRAVOON
You all should leave.
ATLAS
What?
TRAVOON
Going in equals suicide.
ZYLEN
Will take dat because we don’t plan on dyin.
CELESTRA
That’s our sister; we’re not leaving.
TRAVOON
Fools.
REANGEL
Doesn’t matter, we're getting Summerlyn back, you punk.
TRAVOON (Ignoring REANGEL.)
Anyway, this challenge has two paths. The Devil's Musical Cage, where a thirsty lion lies in wait to chew up some human flesh.
REANGEL
A lion's nothing.
TRAVOON
Patillo 64
Let me finish, I swear, the way the children respect their elders. The second path has the final clue; it’s pretty dull, not gonna lie.
ZYLEN
Where are the two paths?
(TRAVOON starts to hum a haunting tune, and then a blue stage rises on stage left and right. The stage freezes as we see MASKED MAN walk upstage of the tent with a knife in hand— he makes his way off stage.)
TRAVOON
My favorite seventh chord is E minor.
ATLAS (Annoyed)
What is this guy on?
ZYLEN
I say we split up two and two: me and Atlas, Celestra and ReAngel.
TRAVOON
I choose the groups. Atlas and Celestra, Zylen and ReAngel.
REANGEL
I don’t care about the teams.
(Walking towards TRAVOON.)
I know you know where she is.
(Beat.)
TELL ME NOW!
(REANGEL is right in TRAVOON'S face.)
CELESTRA
ReAngel, we don’t have time for this.
(Beat. REANGEL is still in TRAVOON'S face. TRAVOON walks away from REANGEL.)
TRAVOON
Doesn’t matter. Novantika, I mean Nevantika, kidnapped that girl.
ATLAS
Nevantika? Who’s that?
Patillo 65
TRAVOON
The one who blew up the police station. That’s all I know. Now you'd better go your separate ways—
REANGEL
What else do you know?
TRAVOON
If you keep messing around with me, this will all be for nothing.
(Beat. REANGEL exhales. The four protagonists walk towards each other.)
ATLAS, REANGEL, CELESTRA, AND ZYLEN
Be safe.
(They share a group hug. Beat. Longer Beat.)
ZYLEN
We have to go.
(They all break away from the hug.)
ATLAS (Teary-eyed.)
Yeah, I’ll see you guys soon.
(He is smiling, but you can tell it’s hard.)
REANGEL
We will, Atlas, don’t you worry.
ZYLEN
Remember what I said, Celestra.
CELESTRA
I always will. I promise I’ll be ready.
(Beat.)
For us.
(She holds out her pinky, and ZYLEN shakes it. The protagonists go their separate ways. Lights dim on them and rise on TRAVOON)
TRAVOON
Why do people choose more pain and suffering when there’s a straightforward way out? Soon they’ll learn.
Patillo 66
(Blackout. At this time, half of the stage is being transformed into a large lion cage. The carnival set-up is being taken away. The projections are slowly changing into a dark blue hallway as the audience hears a LION roaring.)
Patillo 67
Scene 16- The Devil's Beast
(Lights rise on The Dealers Arena. CRIMSON is sitting on his throne, and SUMMERLYN is once again tied up against the wall. ZYLEN and REANGEL are walking down a hallway, with tension in the air. ZYLEN is thinking about what to do if they run into a lion or are on the “good path.” REANGEL senses ZYLEN is stressed and has noticed that something's up with him. ZYLEN has his gun in hand, and REANGEL has his taser in hand. Beat. The following two lines happen simultaneously.)
REANGEL
Hey how—
ZYLEN
If—
(Pause.)
I’m sorry, man, I didn’t mean to interrupt you.
REANGEL
You're good, go ahead.
ZYLEN
If we have the path that gives us the clue, then I say we grab it and run to the other pathway where Atlas and Celestra are. If we get the Lion, we can’t win that fight, not in this state.
REANGEL
Yeah, burns a lion… not good.
(Beat.)
How are you, dude?
ZYLEN
What?
REANGEL
You’ve been checking on everyone else, but nobody's been checking on you. And don't give me the old-fashioned: I’m good because I know you're going through stuff on the inside.
ZYLEN
I appreciate you askin', dog.
(Beat.)
Patillo 68
I know we're going to make it out of dis, but sometimes when things have been getting hard, I’ve been thinking about all Summerlyn’s done for me.
(Beat.)
She’s the reason I have you all. I don’t have siblings, which is why I’m so protective of all ya’ll. (Pause.)
Anyway, though, I’m chillin', don't worry.
REANGEL
That’s really sweet, dude. Love you, man.
(ZYLEN stops moving. Long beat. He hugs REANGEL. No words, just a strong brotherly hug. ZYLEN pulls away.)
ZYLEN
I know you were scared… so dat’s why I hugged you.
REANGEL.
Sure, sure, sure.
(All of a sudden, ZYLEN and REANGEL sense a musty and meaty smell.)
ZYLEN
Guard up.
(They walk in silence, in sync. They soon see the open lion cage. Beat.)
REANGEL
Could we pray?
(REANGEL lets out his hands to ZYLEN.)
ZYLEN
Let’s do it.
(ZYLEN puts his hands in REANGEL'S. Light darkens over Dealers Arena and the rest of the stage; however, spotlights remain on SUMMERLYN, REANGEL, and ZYLEN. The following three lines are said concurrently at the same time.)
SUMMERLYN
God, thank you for all you’ve done for my friends and me. You’ve kept them safe and protected them in their times of need.
Please continue to do so. These are great souls, true angels this world needs… that I need.
Patillo 69
I know you will take care of it, and I know you are on our side. Please stay with us through thick and thin.
REANGEL
God, can you please protect Zylen and me and let us make it out of this alive together? But if it comes down to someone’s life being taken, let it be mine.
I can't let anything else happen to one of my friends, so please do everything in your power to let him come out alive.
ZYLEN
God, please help us think on our toes.
Please help me remember all the knowledge my father has taught me about fighting, combat, and strategy.
I need ReAngel and Summerlyn in my life, and you know dat more than anyone.
SUMMERLYN, REANGEL and ZYLEN
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
(Beat. Lights rise back on the Dealers Arena and the rest of the stage.)
REANGEL and ZYLEN
Ready.
(Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Lion Sequence. REANGEL and ZYLEN step inside the cage, guns ready, as they continue walking. We see TRAVOON appear and lock the cage on them. REANGEL and ZYLEN turn around to see the door now closed.)
TRAVOON (To the audience.)
And now for the deaths of the King of Spades and King of Hearts.
(TRAVOON smiles. Beat. Walks offstage. The LION is visible to the audience and is beginning to wake up. The protagonists don’t see this.)
ZYLEN (Whispering)
There has to be a way to escape; there has to be some vent—
(The LION charges at them. REANGEL dodges by sliding on the ground and scrapes his knee.)
REANGEL
Move!
(The LION lunges at ZYLEN. ZYLEN fires but misses— the LION is too fast. The LION claws ZYLEN. He screams.)
Are you okay?
Patillo 70
ZYLEN
Focus!
(REANGEL fires his taser. It hits the LION’s tail— no effect. The LION dashes towards REANGEL. Four gunshots; the stage lights turn dark red with each one. The shots make an impact. The LION screams.)
REANGEL
You’re a good shot.
(LION roars and is in pursuit of ZYLEN.)
How is it not dead?
ZYLEN
I’m going to distract it. I need you to find an exit.
REANGEL
But you’ve already been it.
(ZYLEN doesn’t respond. ZYLEN allows the LION to charge. Despite his injuries, he dodges each time at the last second. LION is clashing into containers of food and water, causing minimal damage. The third time ZYLEN attempts this, he falls. LION is about to strike until we hear REANGEL whistle, getting the LION’s attention.)
Over here!
(REANGEL bites his hand, causing a slight bleed. This attracts the LION, which now goes after him.)
Keep looking around while I buy us some time.
ZYLEN
On it.
(REANGEL dodges the LION’s attacks, using the gigantic boxes for cover and for damage control. He throws boxes at the beast. During one dodge, the LION crashes into a box that leads to a vent. ZYLEN looks around to see where REANGEL is and notices the vent.)
ReAngel, you found it. I’m gonna shoot at it, head to the vent, open it, and squeeze out through there.
(ZYLEN shoots at the LION; the stage lights grow darker and darker as he fires. Some of his shots land; the rest miss. LION is now headed for ZYLEN once again.)
Patillo 71
REANGEL
What about you?
ZYLEN
Trust me.
(They sprint. ZYLEN veers the long way, firing towards the LION— covering REANGEL. The LION is picking up incredible speed. REANGEL reaches the vent and tries to open it.)
REANGEL
It won’t budge!
(ZYLEN has made it to the vent. He shoots the LION’s eye. Stage lights are now completely red, and we hear a roar. ZYLEN and REANGEL put their hands on the vent.)
REANGEL
Time for all that work at the gym to come in.
(They use all their might. Beat. They pull off the bars and can now enter. The LION has recovered and is now charging at both of them.)
Go, Hurry!
(ZYLEN heads in and REANGEL follows. However, as REANGEL is making his way inside, the LION bites REANGEL's leg and pulls him back into the arena. REANGEL is screaming. ZYLEN shoots his gun. Blackout. REANGEL screams. Silence.)
CRIMSON
The Cards never lie.
(In the transition into the next scene, the half of the stage that the LION scene wasn’t using is turned into a straight hallway. Ensemble members begin to hold up black curtains on the stage. Music: The Cards: The Rewriters Of Fate Ending Scene 16.)
Patillo 72
Scene 17- The Other Path
(Lights rise on The Dealers Arena, where CRIMSON is still furiously watching, and SUMMERLYN is fighting spiritually with all her might. Lights lastly rise on ATLAS and CELESTRA, who are walking in between the black curtains. ATLAS holds his baton, and CELESTRA has her gun locked and loaded. Her shirt covers it. ATLAS is thinking about the current interaction they just had with TRAVOON, while CELESTRA is silently preparing herself.)
CELESTRA (To herself, voiceover.)
You have to be ready… no, you will be prepared. Just like my friends risk everything for each other, I need to be ready.
(Beat. Looking up.)
Please guide me in making the right decision; don’t let me be the weakest star in the cosmos.
ATLAS
Celestra, earlier Travoon said Novantika, then he switched it to Nevantika. The lady who tried to offer ReAngel the business card name was Nova.
CELESTRA (Realizing)
On the card she gave ReAngel, it didn’t even have her name; it just had her contact information and a location.
ATLAS
She tried to gain our trust, to trick us.
(Beat.)
ATLAS and CELESTRA (Unison)
Nova is Nevantika in disguise.
(Beat.)
CELESTRA
The woman who took my sister was right in front of me, and I didn’t even know. (Silence. ATLAS trying to lighten the mood—)
Patillo 73
ATLAS
We're a step closer; we know who it is.
(He raises his hand signaling a high five. CELESTRA reciprocates.)
Celestra, nobody could have known that was the woman who took sis, so don’t beat yourself up over it.
CELESTRA
I know.
(Beat.)
How do you stay so optimistic through all of this?
ATLAS
For me, it’s simple—
(A MASKED MAN bursts through the black curtains, with a knife.)
Watch out!
(ATLAS shoves Celestra aside. The blade grazes her back– she screams. The gun falls.)
ATLAS
Are you okay?
CELESTRA
Pay attention, Atlas!
(The MASKED MAN strikes ATLAS’ chest and rips the baton away. ATLAS fires three punches. Beat. On the fourth, the MASKED MAN throws ATLAS to the ground. ATLAS screams from the knife wound and the burns. The MASKED MAN locks ATLAS in a choke hold, knife raised. CELESTRA grabs the MASKED MAN’s hand.)
CELESTRA
Don’t you dare!
(MASKED MAN throws CELESTRA right next to the fallen gun.)
Patillo 74
MASKED MAN
It all ends the same.
(CELESTRA quickly grabs it.)
CELESTRA
I will shoot!
(ATLAS looks at CELESTRA; the MASKED MAN is unfazed.)
MASKED MAN
You hesitate; that’s how fate wins.
(The MASKED MAN then presses down on one of ATLAS’ many burns. He screams viciously.)
How does it feel? This is what ensues when you test fate!
(ATLAS is just screaming in pain.)
CELESTRA
This is your last chance!
(CELESTRA aims the gun at MASKED MAN. CELESTRA voiceover.)
This is your chance to pay Atlas back for everything he’s sacrificed for your sister and for your friends. This is for the team and Summer
(ZYLENS voice and CELESTRA’S voice.)
Choose the right path!
(CELESTRA hesitates. Stage lights go black as we hear CELESTRA fire the gun. Beat. The lights come back on, and the MASKED MAN is bleeding on the floor but not dead. CELESTRA is frozen. ATLAS goes over to her and hugs her. Lights are completely gone in the Dealers Arena.)
ATLAS
I know that was hard for you.
Patillo 75
CELESTRA
I had to do it for the ones I love; I couldn’t let anything bad happen to you. (Beat.)
I just—
(The tears overwhelm CELESTRA, and she is now sobbing in ATLAS’ arms.)
ATLAS
Está bien, Celestra, desahógate. Estoy aquí.
(Long Beat. CELESTRA pulls away.)
MASKED MAN
Every deck turns out the same. You’re only delaying the draw.
(Beat. CELESTRA and ATLAS are lost in their moment.)
CELESTRA
Thank you.
ATLAS
Anytime. Ready to keep going? The clue is probably up ahead.
CELESTRA
Yeah.
(She gives him a faint smile. ATLAS grabs his baton. He proceeds to take the knife off the ground, and ATLAS notices a piece of paper in his pocket.)
MASKED MAN
Don't touch that. I'm warning you.
(ATLAS does it anyway.)
CELESTRA
What is it?
Patillo 76
(ATLAS smiles.)
ATLAS
The third and final clue!
(ATLAS runs to CELESTRA and hugs her. CELESTRA screams from the knife cut.) I’m sorry.
CELESTRA
It’s fine, let's meet with the others.
(Beat.)
MASKED MAN
Was Crimson wrong?
(Our two protagonists smile at each other. ATLAS puts his arm around CELESTRA’S shoulder as they walk into the distance.)
Patillo 77
Scene 18- Crimson’s Wrath
(Lights rise on the VALENCALITES.)
ALTO
In the very beginning, we all saw how the story ended, but it hasn’t happened yet. (SOPRANO and BASS share a knowing glance.)
BASS
Have you considered that humans can alter their fate?
ALTO
No, that's impossible.
(Beat.)
Right?
SOPRANO and BASS
You must wait.
(Lights dim on the VALENCALITES and rise on the Dealers Arena, where we see CRIMSON and SUMMERLYN.)
CRIMSON (Getting up from his chair.)
What is happening?!
(SUMMERLYN is trying to hold in her laugh.)
You think this is funny?
(She smiles.)
CRIMSON
IT’S NOT!
Patillo 78
(He kicks the chair NEVANTIKA was previously sitting in. Beat. He sits back on his throne. A long silence.)
I’ve been naive.
SUMMERLYN
What do you mean?
CRIMSON
So far, I’ve underestimated them.
SUMMERLYN
Fate is in the hands of the beholder; it is not controlled or ruled by anyone else. My friends always come back!
(Silence, CRIMSON doesn’t know how to respond. Beat. He takes the bracelet out of his pocket once again and rips it apart in front of SUMMERLYN. Beat. He exhales. CRIMSON gets a red-covered shotgun from up under his throne.)
CRIMSON
I want all of you in my deck. A shotgun will make sure of that.
(Beat.)
Let the final game begin!
(He smiles viciously and stares at his shotgun.)
Patillo 79
Scene 19- The Ace, Nova, and Nevantika
(Lights rise on ATLAS and CELESTRA, who are sitting down at a bench in front of Travoons Many Paths. Silence. It is late morning outside. CELESTRA is resting her hand on ATLAS's shoulder.)
CELESTRA
Do you think they survived?
ATLAS
There’s no doubt in my mind.
(Beat of silence.)
CELESTRA
You're right. If anyone could handle it, it’s those two.
ATLAS
You know, you asked me what keeps me joyous throughout this process. We’ve gone through so much over our fifteen years of friendship, but God has kept us together. I still get a little scared—
(Beat.)
But I remember that and laugh it off.
CRIMSON
Wishful thinking.
(Silence. We hear footsteps behind them. The stage lights catch ZYLEN and REANGEL. REANGEL is limping a little due to the bite on his leg, but he’s alive nonetheless.)
REANGEL
Glad to see you all.
(ATLAS and CELESTRA turn around to see them. ATLAS screams in joy and rises from the bench. CELESTRA follows.)
ATLAS
Patillo 80
Y’ALL ARE ALIVE, I KNEW IT!!!
(ATLAS picks up REANGEL and spins him around. He then engulfs REANGEL in a big bear hug.)
REANGEL (Chuckling)
Oh my gosh, bro, you're thrilled to see me.
(CELESTRA hugs ZYLEN.)
ZYLEN
I’m so happy to see you.
CELESTRA
Right back at you, Zylen.
(The two pull away from their embrace. ATLAS stares at ZYLEN.)
ZYLEN
I may have just fought a lion, but I will still fight you if you pick me up.
ATLAS
No, you want hermano!
(Very theatrical.)
Somos familia.
(He picks up and spins ZYLEN.)
ZYLEN
Put me down, Atlas!
(ATLAS does.)
ATLAS
I’m just so happy to see you both, oh my gosh!
REANGEL
Really, bro, I couldn’t tell.
About the Competition
The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is an esteemed event that highlights the talents of writers from around the globe. The competition provides a platform for poets and writers to showcase their unique voices and storytelling prowess. Participants submit works that push the boundaries of creativity, exploring diverse themes and narratives. This annual event is a celebration of literary artistry, fostering a community of writers who share a passion for the written word.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dayden Patillo for sharing "The Cards: The Rewriters of Fate" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This intricate and thought-provoking script captivates the imagination and challenges perceptions of fate and free will. We are honored to feature such a compelling work and look forward to seeing more of Dayden's creative endeavors in the future.
About Hashtag Kalakar
Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.
Comments