for being so 'friendly' with the Russian.]
FREDDIE
Who�d ever think it?
Such a very pretty setting......
FLORENCE
Freddie, we were only talking!
FREDDIE
No need to explain, I know what's going on! How many secrets have you given away to your new friend?
ANATOLY
It was just an innocent conversation, nothing underhand this time. We were waiting for you.
FREDDIE
With you lot there�s always something underhand!
ANATOLY
Neither of us need these distractions, why can�t we forget about everything that's happened and start concentrating on the chess?
FLORENCE
He's right, we've got to move on from these stupid quarrels.
FREDDIE
Ok, but if there is the slightest hint of interference from your KGB guys, I'm making an official complaint to the federation.
ANATOLY
I don�t want them involved either, I just want to play chess.
FREDDIE
Make sure Molokov knows that.
ANATOLY
I will. I have.
[Anatoly makes to shake Freddie's hand, but Freddie walks away.]
FREDDIE
(Looking back at Anatoly) I hope you know what you�re up against. I�ve waited all my life for this chance, I�m not going to let my country down. The championship title is on its way to the States. (To Florence) Which country you playing for now honey?
FLORENCE
Freddie! (She goes to follow him then stops short. She looks at Anatoly then leaves.)
[Anatoly remains on the terrace for a few seconds then he too leaves.. As the scene changes, Freddie is seen leaving the hotel. He feels betrayed by Florence and begins to reflect on how, due to his own determination, he has risen to the top of his profession - but is that really enough for him? He starts to wander the streets of Bangkok and eventually ends up among the sex dens of Patpong.]
PITY THE CHILD
[During the instrumental break the scene changes to the outside of the chess arena. He sees a poster for the championship with his name on full display. This reminds him of how successful he has already been and how he can have anything else he wants, including the championship title if he truly wants it enough!]
[As the instrumental play-out begins, the scene changes to the chess arena. We see the Arbiter checking the board with Anatoly and Freddie approaching the table. As the final few bars of music are played, they shake hands and take their seats while the Arbiter starts the clock.]
THE ARBITER'S SONG
ARBITER
As you settle down behind your pawns
Power passes to me.....
[As the Arbiter and his assistants regain their composure, the arena returns to a quiet 'model of decorum', but off the board things are far from tranquil. During the games that follow, the relationships between the key characters develop and break down respectively.]