Wallada (The Play) Part 2
Lorient Montaner
ACT IV
SCENE I
At the home of Ibn Zaydun.
A romantic relationship had grown between Ibn Zaydun and Wallada, that is indisputable; but, in order to protect themselves from the slanderous men of the court, Wallada had requested their relationship remain a secret, until a new vizier were appointed. The poet is in his garden the next morning, when a mysterious letter is delivered by a messenger. It is from Wallada. The contents of the letter read:
WALLADA'S LETTER
Wait to visit me when darkness falleth, for I believe night keepeth the secret best. What I feel for thee is such that, similarly affected, the moon would cease to shine, the night not spread itself, and the stars not travel.
To which Ibn Zaydun replied:
IBN ZAYDUN (reading aloud)
If, after thee, my night groweth long, then how much do I now complain of this night’s shortness with thee!
Enter Zahid, hastily.
ZAHID.
Ibn Zaydun, thou must leave the city at once—the court guards are on their way to arrest thee.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Wherefore must I flee, when I have committed no wrong nor mischief?
ZAHID.
Because thou standest accused of conspiring with the Umayyads against the court.
IBN ZAYDUN.
That is a false and grievous charge!
ZAHID.
This time, the accusation is serious—damaging beyond thine imagining.
IBN ZAYDUN.
What is the nature of this charge that I cannot comprehend?
ZAHID.
There is no time for elaboration!
IBN ZAYDUN.
I shall not flee like a coward, for I am guiltless.
ZAHID.
They are near! What wilt thou do?
IBN ZAYDUN.
I shall defend myself honourably, against this baseless accusation.
ZAHID.
There is no turning back now! They are bent on condemning thee.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Whatever the accusation, I am entirely innocent!
Enter the Berber Guards of the court.
FIRST BERBER GUARD.
Vizier, we are here to place thee under arrest and escort thee to court at once.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Under what charge am I seized?
SECOND BERBER GUARD.
The charge of conspiracy.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Who hath made this grave accusation?
FIRST BERBER GUARD.
I am not at liberty to disclose that, vizier. I act under orders. Wilt thou come willingly, or must we compel thee?
ZAHID.
It would be wise to yield, my friend.
SECOND BERBER GUARD.
Must I repeat the order again?
IBN ZAYDUN.
There is no need. I shall come with thee.
ZAHID.
I shall do what I can to speak on thy behalf at the court.
SCENE II
At the court of Sheikh Abu al-Hazm Jahwar. Ibn Zaydun has been imprisoned and is now brought before the court, where the council of ministers and jurists are assembled.
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
Ibn Zaydun, thou hast been arrested and brought before this court to answer the charges brought against thee. Dost thou know of what thou art accused?
IBN ZAYDUN.
I have been told 'tis conspiracy, but I do not grasp the full nature of the accusation nor its cause.
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
There are witnesses who claim to have seen thee in the improper company of Princess Wallada.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Who are these witnesses who dare utter such calumny?
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
Their names are of no consequence.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Have I not the right to confront my accusers in person, my lord?
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
Indeed. But first, I must know from thy own mouth whether the charge is false or true.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I did not know that keeping company with the princess amounted to a crime.
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
It is, when that companionship hints at conspiracy. Know that mine enemies are many and would gladly see me removed—or worse.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am aware of that, yet 'tis thou who speakest of threats, not I.
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
True! Yet thine answer ringeth with riddles, not sincerity.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Forgive me, my lord, if my words have not been clearly spoken.
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
Thou art aware, then, that if guilt be proven, the sentence is death—immediate and without reprieve?
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am. Yet I seek to live. Am I not entitled to defend myself under the law?
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
Thou art.
The witnesses are brought in: a merchant, a mullah, and the servant of Princess Wallada—Laila. Each confirmeth the suspicion. Laila's testimony is the most compelling.
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
Thou claimest that Ibn Zaydun conspired with Princess Wallada of the Umayyads. Is that true?
LAILA.
I have said it, because it is true, my lord.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Thou art the servant of the princess. What compeleth thee to betray the woman who hath always given thee shelter?
LAILA.
Must I answer that?
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
Aye, thou must—truthfully.
LAILA.
The princess and Ibn Zaydun are lovers, and they were seen with known enemies of the court.
IBN ZAYDUN.
That proves no crime, nor intent to commit one. I demand, as a loyal servant of this court, that these charges be dismissed for want of proof.
SHEIKH ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR.
For now, I shall dismiss the charges, until further evidence be brought forth.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I thank thee, noble Sheikh. I swear to thee, thou needest not mistrust me. I have served this court faithfully.
SCENE III
At the home of Ibn Zaydun.
He is joined once more by his faithful friend Zahid.
ZAHID.
I came as soon as I heard the tidings!
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am glad thou art here. I hope this scandalous assertion, incriminating me in a supposed conspiracy, hath been disproved.
ZAHID.
I fear the worst, if thou continuest thine association with that controversial woman.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Perchance thou art correct. But how can I convince mine heart to stray from her? Thou art the only one to whom I shall make this candid disclosure: I believe I am in love with the Princess Wallada.
ZAHID.
That is madness! Thou knowest thy relation cannot be possible, when thou art of the tribe of Makhzum, and she of the Umayyad line.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Doth it truly matter in the end, if we are more beholden to our hearts than to our positions?
ZAHID.
Thou speakest in foolish language, when we are people of nobility and duty to the court.
IBN ZAYDUN.
But how long must I suffer for love?
ZAHID.
'Tis better to suffer the loss of a woman than the absolute loss of thy standing.
Thou shalt be ostracised by the court, and forced to abandon the city thereafter.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Is this the price I must pay for loving the Princess Wallada?
ZAHID.
The price of losing all thou hast is far greater than the loss of a single woman.
IBN ZAYDUN.
What shall I do to forget her?
ZAHID.
Simple. Find another woman to make thee forget her forthwith.
IBN ZAYDUN.
How can I break her heart and trust in me so callously?
ZAHID.
Thou hast no other choice. 'Tis either her or thee!
IBN ZAYDUN.
'Twould be betrayal of the worst kind. I could not bear such an inconceivable act.
ZAHID.
But it must be done—swiftly!
IBN ZAYDUN.
Although I disapprove of the argument, thy words have persuaded me at last to see thy point.
ZAHID.
Good. Then do what must be done, and be rid of this needless scandal.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I shall heed thy counsel with due resolve.
SCENE IV
At the home of Wallada.
Wallada is visited by Salma, her close relative.
WALLADA.
'Tis good to see thee again, dearest aunt.
SALMA.
Would that I had come for a convivial visit alone, but the nature of mine arrival be of serious import.
WALLADA.
I descry in thine eyes a visible look of grave concern.
SALMA.
There is much talk regarding thine amorous relationship with Ibn Zaydun amongst the people.
WALLADA.
I had hoped our union would remain private, but rumours of me spread daily. It doth not surprise me in the least.
SALMA.
Yet this matter exceedeth the bounds of mere affection shared by two prominent figures of Córdoba. It cannot be condoned by the court, nor by the people.
WALLADA.
What art thou implying?
SALMA.
Ye both stand accused of conspiracy against the court.
WALLADA.
That is a blatant falsehood. True, I bear resentment towards the Jahwarid Court, but I do not require Ibn Zaydun to share in my dislike.
SALMA.
Then thou must realise it were better for thee not to be seen in his company—at least not publicly.
WALLADA.
I believe I love him.
SALMA.
Dost thou think he shall remain faithful to thee?
WALLADA.
Wherefore dost thou ask?
SALMA.
Because I am aware of his salacious reputation as a lover.
WALLADA.
Everyone hath a reputation in this city—even I am thought salacious. Perchance mine be worse than Ibn Zaydun's.
SALMA.
Do not dismiss the accusation so lightly. Stay away from him, and avoid the risk of imprisonment—I beg of thee!
WALLADA.
Thou knowest me well. Since when have I feared a threat made against me directly?
SALMA.
This is no idle threat, Wallada. Do not play with fire—for thou shalt surely be burned! The Jahwarid Court is eager for any excuse to bring ruin upon our noble lineage.
WALLADA.
I am fully aware of the danger, but I cannot live my life at the cost of my felicity.
SALMA.
Leave him whilst thou still canst, and find another lover ere it be too late for repentance.
WALLADA.
Where should I find a man who shall accept me for who I am, as he doth?
SALMA.
That I know not. But thou must be cautious, especially in public.
SCENE V.
At the home of Wallada.
Wallada has been informed that her servant Laila has betrayed her to the court. Laila has now fled the city of Córdoba, escaping the wrath of the princess. Wallada, wounded, is left mistrustful of all her pupils.
WALLADA.
How easy it is to betray my trust and slander my name so unjustly—like a common whore!
LINA.
Truly, I can speak for the others here present—we are not like Laila. How canst thou compare us to her, when her loyalty was never genuine in the first place?
NAUM SAFIYA.
We are ever obedient to thee and would never dare commit such an audacious act of treachery.
WALLADA.
Yet one of ye was daring enough to do precisely that.
MUHTA BINT AL-TAYANI.
I would never betray thee, Princess—I swear it on our holy book!
WALLADA.
Those are noble words to utter, but I have heard them before and cannot so easily trust them now.
LINA.
Then scourge me, if I am guilty of such treason.
WALLADA.
There’s no need for that. The burden of guilt shall weigh more heavily than any scourge.
MUHTA BINT AL-TAYANI.
You are our devoted teacher and sister.
WALLADA.
And thou art my devoted pupils and sisters as well.
NAUM SAFIYA.
How can we prove ourselves to thee, Princess? Tell us how!
WALLADA.
All I ask is thy loyalty—and nothing more.
LINA.
And thou hast our undivided loyalty, Princess.
WALLADA.
For how long, I ask?
MUHTA BINT AL-TAYANI.
We are here before thee. Is that not a clear sign of our loyalty?
NAUM SAFIYA.
I too declare that sincerely!
WALLADA.
If I ever learn of thy betrayal, then thou must never return to this house nor speak to me publicly. Let this serve as a stern warning, for each of ye to take to heart from this day forth.
LAILA.
I would never deceive thee, Princess. Thou must believe my confession.
WALLADA.
I sincerely hope so—for thine own sake.
SCENE VI.
At the Court of the Banu Jawhar.
The following day. A new vizier has been appointed to help oversee the daily affairs of Córdoba. He is an old friend of Ibn Zaydun. His name is Ibn Abdus.
IBN ABDUS.
Ibn Zaydun, mine old friend! It’s been quite some time since we last met. It’s good to see thee again!
IBN ZAYDUN.
And I share the very same sentiment.
IBN ABDUS.
Thou hast accomplished much on behalf of the court. ’Tis a pity thou hast entangled thyself, as I hear, in scandalous affairs of the heart—if I’ve understood matters correctly.
IBN ZAYDUN.
It’s nothing but senseless gossip!
IBN ABDUS.
Then thou art not involved with the Princess Wallada, daughter of the late Caliph Muhammad III?
IBN ZAYDUN.
I see the rumours of mine affair with Princess Wallada hast become a favourite topic amongst nobles and commoners alike.
IBN ABDUS.
Art thou suggesting these so-called rumours are unfounded—mere fabrications?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Indeed. Whatever I share with Princess Wallada ought not concern the people of this city. They would be better served tending to their own matters—and more importantly, to the ongoing unrest in Al-Andalus, which has divided our brethren and plunged us into civil war.
IBN ABDUS.
I admire thy commitment, Ibn Zaydun, but thou art surely aware of thy position at court and the precarious state of the taifas, since the fall of the Umayyad Caliphate.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am more than aware, Ibn Abdus.
IBN ABDUS.
Then let us attend first to the diligent governance of the city—before indulging in matters of romance.
IBN ZAYDUN.
My loyalty lieth with the court—and with the sheikh, as always.
IBN ABDUS.
I’ve spoken with the sheikh, and I’m convinced that our true threat is not the rival Muslim factions, but the Christian lords in the north, eager to drive us from these lands.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I agree, though the situation is far more complex, I fear.
IBN ABDUS.
Let us hope we can agree on many matters—and disagree on few, my friend.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am willing to work with thee, Ibn Abdus, in whatever way I can to aid the court.
IBN ABDUS.
That is reassuring to hear. These are changing times, and trust, I fear, is fast being abandoned for greed.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Perhaps there’s a measure of greed in all of us—but for the time being, it has served neither my purpose nor my cause.
ABU AL-HAZM JAHWAR IBN JAHWAR.
I am pleased to see my wise counsellors and viziers conversing so amicably amongst themselves.
IBN ABDUS.
Ibn Zaydun is an old friend. We share a history, a love for the arts—and, I daresay, for women as well.
ACT V
SCENE I.
At the home of Wallada.
Wallada has invited guests to an evening poetry recital. Amongst the guests is the new vizier, Ibn Abdus, who shall become a significant figure in her life. He presents himself to the Umayyad princess.
IBN ABDUS.
Allow me to introduce myself, Princess. I am Ibn Abdus, the new vizier of Córdoba.
WALLADA.
I have heard of thee, but I have not had the pleasure of meeting thee in person—until now.
IBN ABDUS.
And I too have heard of thee.
WALLADA.
I should hope that what thou hast heard of me is not wholly terrible, nor grossly exaggerated.
IBN ABDUS.
That is of no great relevance!
WALLADA.
Art thou not suspicious of me, when controversy follows wherever I go?
IBN ABDUS.
No more so than of any other controversial figure in this city.
WALLADA.
I am curious to know—what hath compelled thee to visit mine home?
IBN ABDUS.
If thou didst not know, I too am a lover of the poetic arts.
WALLADA.
Art thou then a vizier and a poet?
IBN ABDUS.
Indeed, I am a poet!
WALLADA.
Then wilt thou join us this evening?
IBN ABDUS.
If thou extendest an invitation, gladly!
WALLADA.
I do! I am certain my guests shall be most delighted by thy verses—particularly my pupils, who must surely be weary of mine own poetry by now.
IBN ABDUS.
It would be an immense pleasure, Wallada.
WALLADA.
Then come with me into the hall, where thou mayest sit more comfortably.
IBN ABDUS.
I thank thee for thy gracious hospitality, Princess.
WALLADA.
Please, refrain from addressing me as Princess. Call me simply Wallada.
IBN ABDUS.
Then I shall call thee Wallada, as thou preferrest.
The vizier prepares to leave the gathering momentarily, but not before excusing himself before the guests and the hostess.
WALLADA.
I am glad thou camest not as a vizier, but as a poet to mine home. At first, I feared thou mightest have come to arrest me.
IBN ABDUS.
I came to meet the woman who hath captivated many men with her natural charm and beauty.
WALLADA.
I hope the woman thou hast met this evening is to thy satisfaction—and not the scandalous creature of public rumour.
IBN ABDUS.
Indeed, I have encountered the very opposite of that wretched image.
WALLADA.
Then may thy time in Córdoba reward thee with such wonders and sublime experiences.
IBN ABDUS.
I trust thou speakest true—with words full of insight and foresight.
SCENE II.
At the ruins of Madinat al-Zahra.
Wallada and Ibn Zaydun are together beneath the moonlit sky. It is, alas, their final night spent together as lovers at the ancient ruins.
WALLADA.
There is much hostility in the city towards us, and gossip most unwanted, which hath stirred unrest among the people.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am aware of the tumult provoked by word of our romantic entanglement.
WALLADA.
Truly, I never wished our affair to descend into such scandal.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Nor I—and that is precisely why we must now be more discreet in public, with our affections held close.
WALLADA.
I am in full agreement with such caution. But what dost thou propose we do?
IBN ZAYDUN.
I propose we refrain from seeing one another publicly for a short while, until the scandal fades from memory.
WALLADA.
Scandals can last days, weeks—or even years. The people of Córdoba do not forget so easily.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I understand—but at present, we have little choice.
WALLADA.
We could flee the city—go to Seville, live anew! We could change our names; no one would recognise us!
IBN ZAYDUN.
I cannot leave Córdoba now. I hold a high post at court—I am a vizier! Moreover, if we were to flee together, it would only affirm our guilt. They would call us cowards.
WALLADA.
Thou knowest my feelings for thee are true. I do not give mine heart to just any man. Is it too much to ask of thee?
IBN ZAYDUN.
No! I say to thee, it is only for a time. Be patient. I am certain we shall overcome this trial—together.
WALLADA.
I do not know if I can endure the waiting.
IBN ZAYDUN.
What dost thou mean by that?
WALLADA.
What thou askest of me—I cannot fulfil, unless thou art willing to meet me halfway.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I had hoped thou wouldst be more understanding, given our present plight.
WALLADA.
I warned thee not to love me. 'Twould have been better if thou hadst known me only as a fleeting lover.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I have never loved any woman as I have loved thee.
WALLADA.
How can I believe that confession, if thou wilt not show thy loyalty? I have told thee before—loyalty to me is unconditional.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Between thee and me, if thou wishest, there may exist that which cannot be lost—a secret, unspoken. All I ask is time.
SCENE III
At the court of the Banu Jahwar.
Ibn Zaydun and Zahid are joined in the morning by the new vizier, Ibn Abdus. The discussion soon turns to the Princess Wallada.
IBN ABDUS.
Yesterday, I had the great pleasure of meeting the enigmatic Princess Wallada.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Where?
IBN ABDUS.
At her home.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I was not aware that thou hadst visited her. Why didst thou visit her, if I may ask?
IBN ABDUS.
I was curious to learn about the Umayyad Princess.
IBN ZAYDUN.
And what was thine opinion of the Princess?
IBN ABDUS.
Oh, she is indeed a delight. She is both beautiful and intellectual. I have never encountered a woman so fascinating before. Now I understand how any man could be enraptured by her allure — including thyself.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I would hope that thou art prepared to be slandered by the observant elites of the court, as I have been, unjustifiably.
IBN ABDUS.
I do not fear the words of mine enemies; rather, they should fear me.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Art thou not interested in the Princess?
IBN ABDUS.
Art thou worried that she shall leave thee?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Nay! She doth not belong to me!
IBN ABDUS.
Indeed! A woman of her nature is fiercely independent, and requireth a daring man ever at her side.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Perchance! Yet there is a clear difference between being daring and being foolish.
IBN ABDUS.
What art thou alluding to, Ibn Zaydun?
ZAHID.
Gentlemen, there is no need to quarrel about the Princess Wallada when we have other pressing matters to address at court.
IBN ABDUS.
Thou art correct. Ibn Zaydun and I are viziers, and we serve the same court.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am in full agreement!
Ibn Abdus excuses himself. Ibn Zaydun and Zahid remain.
ZAHID.
There is no need, as the vizier hath made clear, to be suspicious of his interest in the Princess. Why should it matter?
IBN ZAYDUN.
It doth matter, for I believe I am in love with the Princess Wallada.
ZAHID.
I warned thee before to forget her. If not, she shall be thy certain downfall.
IBN ZAYDUN.
How can I forget her, when I am bewitched by her presence and natural beauty, day and night?
ZAHID.
Thou must forsake her now, ere she forsaketh thee carelessly later.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Truly, I know not if I can!
ZAHID.
Let the vizier Ibn Abdus be the one to take thy place in her heart and life!
SCENE IV
At the home of the vizier Ibn Abdus.
Wallada has been invited by the vizier for a cordial dinner in the evening. She has accepted.
IBN ABDUS.
I am gladdened that thou hast accepted mine humble invitation to dine with me.
WALLADA.
I am somewhat suspicious of thine intentions.
IBN ABDUS.
Allow me to allay thy concerns. I have invited thee to mine abode so that thou might recite poetry for me.
WALLADA.
I was not expecting so swift an invitation to thine home, vizier.
IBN ABDUS.
I must confess, Princess, that I took the liberty of inviting thee without much advance notice. Forgive mine imprudence, but I was eager to hear thee recite once more.
WALLADA.
There is no need to apologise. I understand the gesture. Yet I wonder—are we alone?
IBN ABDUS.
Nay! I have invited several of thy pupils to join us. They await us in the hall for the evening to commence.
WALLADA.
I had not been informed by my pupils of this generous invitation thou hast extended to us.
IBN ABDUS.
There is no room for modesty tonight, for we are all thine admirers — even I, who am enamoured of thy passionate talent.
WALLADA.
Then I shall be content to share a night of poetry with thee and mine enlightened pupils.
IBN ABDUS.
Let us proceed to where the guests are gathered.
WALLADA.
Let us proceed indeed!
The vizier and the Princess join the gathering. They enjoy an evening of verse and a lavish dinner. Afterwards, when the guests have departed, the vizier offers to escort the Princess home. Though reluctant at first, she consents. As they walk through the streets, Zahid sees the pair and at once decides to inform Ibn Zaydun. Approaching Wallada’s residence, Ibn Zaydun catches sight of the couple. Rage fills his heart, yet he remains silent and does not confront them.
IBN ABDUS.
I hope the dinner and the evening of poetry pleased thee.
WALLADA.
The fare was exquisite, as were the wine and hospitality. I must thank thee for thy generosity.
IBN ABDUS.
There is naught more exquisite to savour than the lips of a beautiful woman.
WALLADA.
Art thou flirting with me, or dost thou seek only to flatter?
IBN ABDUS.
Call my words what thou wilt.
WALLADA.
Then I warn thee—I do not yield so easily to mere temptation.
IBN ABDUS.
I had not expected thee to, but if thou shouldst allow me to see thee again, I would be bold enough to court thee—with my wit and poetic charm.
WALLADA.
I should like that, yet it must wait for a more fitting occasion.
SCENE V
Outside at the court of the Banu Jahwar.
The next day, Ibn Zaydun reproaches the vizier for his courtship of the princess.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I did not know that thine interest in the Princess extended to a dinner engagement.
IBN ABDUS.
Nor did I know that thou hadst been informed of the Princess’s visit. I have the impression that thou art exceedingly jealous.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Jealous? Wherefore should I be?
IBN ABDUS.
If I were to define thy stare, I would acknowledge thy jealousy without hesitation.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Thou seemest so confident in thy foolish supposition.
IBN ABDUS.
I judge only what I witness in thine expression.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Then it were better that thou concern thyself with retaining thy judgement to thyself.
IBN ABDUS.
Fair enough! Yet if thou must know, I enjoyed my time with the Princess tremendously. I am certain thou sharest a similar sentiment.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Art thou insinuating something about my taste in women?
IBN ABDUS.
That is for thee, Ibn Zaydun, to interpret as thou wilt.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Let me warn thee, my good friend — the Princess cannot be courted with mere favours granted.
IBN ABDUS.
Favours? If I choose to court the Princess, then let her be the judge of mine actions — not thee. Dost thou fear that she may choose me over thee?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Fear? 'Tis folly on thy part to make such an absurd assumption!
IBN ABDUS.
Assume what thou preferrest. I shall leave thee with that thought. I have other, more pressing matters to attend to.
IBN ZAYDUN.
And I too have important affairs to address.
IBN ABDUS.
Then let me not delay thee any further. Before I take my leave — I have been invited to join the Princess at her home this evening for a gathering.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I was not informed of any such event!
IBN ABDUS.
Wilt thou be attending this particular occasion?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Alas, I have another engagement with the noble Sheikh.
IBN ABDUS.
Perhaps next time, old friend.
ACT VI
SCENE I
On the street, near the home of Wallada.
Wallada is approached by Ibn Zaydun, who is enraged by her possible intimacy with the vizier Ibn Abdus.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Wallada, I knew not that thou wert intimately acquainted with the vizier Ibn Abdus.
WALLADA.
Art thou jealous of the vizier?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Why should I be, if thou art not my consort?
WALLADA.
Then wherefore dost thou rebuke me?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Because I know thou still lovest me — even now!
WALLADA.
When I asked thee to leave Córdoba with me, thou didst choose thy position at court over me.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I did what any man in my station would have done! Thou knowest I was risking everything!
WALLADA.
And I? Did I not risk all I had in this city, merely to leave with thee as thy lover?
IBN ZAYDUN.
As I said before, all I wished for was more time. Yet it seems thou hast swiftly replaced me with the vizier — an unprepossessing man for thy taste.
WALLADA.
I do not judge mine affections for a man by mere physical appeal!
IBN ZAYDUN.
Then thy taste is poorer than I thought!
WALLADA.
Call it what thou wilt, but any choice I make is no concern of thine.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I thought thou hadst loved me with a passion no man had ever stirred in thee.
WALLADA.
True — and I shall not deny it.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Then why dost thou torment me with such impudence?
WALLADA.
Impudence? 'Tis thou who tormentest thyself — not I.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Thou must reject his advances — and all attempts he maketh to seduce thee!
WALLADA.
I shall do no such thing. I have committed no carnal sin!
IBN ZAYDUN.
Then thou hast not lain with him?
WALLADA.
Whether I have or have not — that is for me to know, and for thee to discover!
IBN ZAYDUN.
With such emphatic words, thou dost imply that thou hast lain with the vizier!
WALLADA.
Art thou finished with thine inquisition?
IBN ZAYDUN.
For now.
WALLADA.
Then good day, Ibn Zaydun.
SCENE II
At the home of Wallada.
Wallada is visited by a Jewish tax collector, sent by Ibn Zaydun under the guise of collecting an improvised debt. It is an act of veiled revenge. Wallada, though unaware of the exact culprit, suspects its origin.
WALLADA.
Who art thou, and wherefore art thou here?
JEW.
I am a tax collector, and I have been sent by the court to collect taxes which thou hast failed to pay.
The tax collector hands her a document bearing the court’s seal.
WALLADA.
A tax collector? Who sent thee? I owe nothing to the court — let that be clear!
JEW.
As I said, I was dispatched by the court. These taxes have been imposed, and thou art required to pay.
WALLADA.
Who specifically commanded thee to come to mine home? I have a right, as a citizen of Córdoba, to know!
JEW.
I know not. My task was simply to come and collect the sum. If thou hast questions, thou must address them to the court — not to me.
Wallada, in defiance, tears the document, realising the handwriting and signature bear a likeness to Ibn Zaydun’s influence.
WALLADA.
I shall not pay! I am an acquaintance of the new vizier, Ibn Abdus. I shall take this matter directly to him.
JEW.
Princess, thou must understand — I am only fulfilling what was assigned to me.
WALLADA.
I understand. Yet this action was unjustified. I owe nothing, and therefore I shall pay nothing.
JEW.
Then I shall be compelled to report to the court that thou hast refused to comply with the order.
WALLADA.
Do what thou must, and I shall do what I must.
JEW.
Then I shall leave thee now — and do pardon the unannounced visit.
WALLADA.
I should hope there will be no need for thy return.
JEW.
Under the circumstances, I hope the same.
WALLADA.
Before thou departest — there is one thing thou canst do for me.
JEW.
And what would that be?
WALLADA.
Tell whosoever sent thee that I am not one to be intimidated so easily.
JEW.
I shall convey thy message to the one who sent me.
WALLADA.
Then take these torn pieces of paper with thee, and tell them that I am Princess Wallada.
JEW.
I shall do so, my princess.
SCENE III.
At the court of the Banu Jahwar.
Wallada arrives at the court and demands to speak to Ibn Zaydun about the intrusive tax collector sent to her home. Ibn Zaydun, informed of her arrival, agrees to see her at once.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Wallada, what art thou doing here at court?
WALLADA.
I have come to address the disturbing action thou hast taken to spite me.
IBN ZAYDUN.
What art thou saying? I do not understand! Thou hast confounded me!
WALLADA.
The Jewish tax collector that thou sent to mine house—wilt thou deny it?
IBN ZAYDUN.
If thou must know the truth, then yes—I sent the tax collector, as a sign of my discontent in thee.
WALLADA.
Discontent in me? Wherefore? I have given thee mine heart a thousand times, and thou hast chosen thy position over me. Who, then, hath more reason for discontent—thou or I?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Do not make me the villain, when I am not! I merely wished for thee to learn a lesson! Dost thou not see how scorned I am by the rumours of thy dealings with the vizier Ibn Abdus?
WALLADA.
Scorned? 'Tis I who have been scorned—by thee!
IBN ZAYDUN.
Dost thou not love me, then?
WALLADA.
Love was once a beautiful thing we shared—in the streets of Córdoba, at the market, amidst the ruins of Madinat al-Zahra, and beneath the canopy of trees in my garden, where we first met. Now it seemeth more and more a thing of the past.
They embrace and share a gentle kiss.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I see in thine eyes the fire of passion and the sparkle of love. Thou still lovest me!
WALLADA.
And if that be true, what worth is this love, if thou art not willing to show it when I need it?
IBN ZAYDUN.
I shall prove to thee that I love thee deeply!
WALLADA.
Words, words—all thy promises reduced to mere broken oaths.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Thou shalt not break mine heart with such withering utterance!
WALLADA.
’Tis thee who hast caused this rupture. I can no longer trust thee.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I swear by the grace of God that I shall prove my love!
WALLADA.
As I said before—mere words.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Do not abandon thy love for me—I beseech thee!
WALLADA.
’Tis I who shall be abandoned by thee! Thou shalt never choose me over thy station at court!
SCENE IV.
At the court of the Banu Jahwar.
Ibn Abdus has learned that Ibn Zaydun attempted to impose taxes on Princess Wallada. He reproaches him publicly. Ibn Zaydun is with Zahid and other ministers of the court.
IBN ABDUS.
Ibn Zaydun! I must speak with thee at once!
IBN ZAYDUN.
About what, if I may ask, vizier?
IBN ABDUS.
A private matter.
Ibn Zaydun excuses himself from the others.
IBN ZAYDUN.
What dost thou wish to speak of?
IBN ABDUS.
I know thou didst send a tax collector to burden Princess Wallada unjustly.
IBN ZAYDUN.
True! But it was a misunderstanding on my part. That is all.
IBN ABDUS.
A misunderstanding? Then let thine imprisonment be a misunderstanding as well.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Is that a threat?
IBN ABDUS.
Interpret it as thou wilt.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Art thou going to arrest me now?
Guards suddenly appear and seize him.
IBN ABDUS.
Take him from the court!
IBN ZAYDUN.
Whither am I to be taken?
IBN ABDUS.
To a prison cell—to rot away!
IBN ZAYDUN.
On what charge?
IBN ABDUS.
Conspiracy against the court!
IBN ZAYDUN.
A false accusation! Thou knowest well thou canst not imprison me for long.
IBN ABDUS.
This is thine own doing. Thou art jealous of mine affair with the Princess.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Jealousy? Why should I be jealous? Thou art but half the man I am. She shall never love thee as she loveth me!
IBN ABDUS.
Thou art a ruined man, Ibn Zaydun. Soon the princess shall see thee for what thou truly art—an enemy of the court and of her.
SCENE V.
At the home of Wallada.
Ibn Zaydun, now released, arrives to speak with Wallada, but his jealousy consumes him. He seduces her servant, Muhta bint al-Mushti, and they are discovered by Wallada and Ibn Abdus. Zaydun is again arrested.
IBN ABDUS.
How dare thou bring shame to thyself and the princess—under her own roof, and with her servant!
IBN ZAYDUN.
This was thy scheme from the start! Admit it, coward!
IBN ABDUS.
I admit nothing. I accuse thee of conspiring with the servant to disgrace the court.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Nonsense! Canst thou prove such accusation?
IBN ABDUS.
I shall—and when I do, thou shalt pay dearly.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Spare me thine idle threats! Thou shalt never win her heart. She hath but one true love—and that is I.
IBN ABDUS.
A delusion! I have replaced thee already.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Once I speak to her, she shall believe me and know this was thy doing.
IBN ABDUS.
She refuseth to see thee. After what hath occurred, canst thou blame her?
IBN ZAYDUN.
Thy plan was perfect, but thou shalt not go unpunished.
IBN ABDUS.
Bold talk from a fallen man.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I have powerful allies in the court.
IBN ABDUS.
Not for long. Thou shalt be expelled and exiled from Córdoba.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I once called thee friend—but now I see a rat, filthy and conniving.
IBN ABDUS.
And thou shalt be remembered as the worst vizier in this court’s history.
IBN ZAYDUN.
This shall not be the end!
IBN ABDUS.
Thou mayst threaten me, but I act.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I shall not forget this betrayal!
IBN ABDUS.
I repeat—thou art finished.
SCENE VI.
In a prison cell.
Through the darkness, Wallada enters, wishing to speak to Ibn Zaydun one last time.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Who goeth there? Come closer!
WALLADA.
’Tis I—Princess Wallada.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Wallada! Thou hast come! I knew thou wouldst return.
WALLADA.
How times have changed. I have come to speak to thee one final time.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Nay! Say it not so!
WALLADA.
How cheap it is to be thy lover—and merely serve thy lusts.
IBN ZAYDUN.
I am innocent! Dost thou not see? The vizier bribed thy servant to tempt me. He is to blame!
WALLADA.
Love? Thou darest speak of love? Whatever affection I bore thee is now replaced by revulsion and pity.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Thou canst not be serious. Give me a chance to explain!
WALLADA.
Spare me the tawdry details. If thou hadst valued our love, thou wouldst not have lain with a servant. Thou didst forsake a branch full of fruit for one barren and dry. I am the moon of the heavens—and thou wert drawn to a lesser light. I am no one’s concubine. I am an Umayyad princess!
IBN ZAYDUN.
Thou didst compel me! I am guilty—I admit it! But I beg thy forgiveness!
WALLADA.
Be a man, and face the consequences of thine actions.
IBN ZAYDUN.
And what of thee? Hast thou not given thyself to another man?
WALLADA.
The only admission I make is that I erred in loving thee.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Then farewell—the farewell of a love that perished too soon.
WALLADA.
Farewell—and seek me no more. Thou art dead to me.
IBN ZAYDUN.
Farewell, Princess Wallada.
WALLADA.
Farewell, Ibn Zaydun.
IBN ZAYDUN.
What shall become of thee?
WALLADA.
I shall remain Princess Wallada. No man shall know mine heart again.
The End
Recommend Write a ReviewReport