The Emperor's Seed
Characters
1. THE EMPEROR
2. LING
3. LING'S MOTHER
4. CHILD 1
5. CHILD 2
6. CHILD 3
SCENE 1: The Emperor's Announcement
Setting: The palace courtyard. Many young people are gathered.
THE EMPEROR: (Steps forward, looking regal but old.)
My dear young people, welcome. It has come time for me to step down and
to choose the next Emperor. I have decided to choose one of you. I know
this may be a surprise, but a great leader must be chosen wisely. I have a
special test for you all. I am going to give each one of you a seed today. A
single, very special seed. You must go home, plant the seed, water it, and
care for it. One year from today, you will all return here with what you have
grown from this one seed. I will judge the plants, and the one I choose will
be the next Emperor of the kingdom! Remember the date, and remember
your duty. Now, receive your seed.
[THE EMPEROR gives LING, CHILD 1, CHILD 2, and CHILD 3 their
seeds. LING looks at the seed with excitement and determination.]
SCENE 2: The Waiting and the Doubt
Setting: LING's home. LING and LING'S MOTHER are next to a small pot.
LING: (Speaking to his mother with a tired but hopeful tone.)
Mother, it’s been three weeks. I’ve watered the soil every day, and I talk to
the pot like you told me. But… nothing. Other kids are already talking
about sprouts. Child 1 saw a tiny green leaf yesterday. They are so lucky. I
followed all the instructions, I really did. I just don't understand.
LING'S MOTHER: (Patting Ling’s shoulder reassuringly.)
My son, you have been patient, and you have been diligent. A seed takes its
own time. You planted it in the best soil and you gave it all the water it
needed. Don't worry about the others. You must keep doing your best, that
is all anyone can ask. Perhaps it is a slow-growing plant. Continue to water it
and have faith. Do not compare your journey to anyone else's.
[Six months pass. LING is now looking at the pot with sadness.
CHILD 2 and CHILD 3 enter.]
CHILD 2: (Scoffs and points.)
