11. Madness
An unrecognizable Siddhatta stands. His ribs protrude, collar bone almost rising out of his body. Black skin, eyes sunk in their sockets.
His once strong arms look like sticks. His hair reaches halfway down his back. He chants.
SIDDHATTA
Beat the body... beat the body... beat the body...
He collapses to the ground, babbling as if insane.
Kondanna and Mahanama rush over to him.
SIDDHATTA
Not enough, not enough.
KONDANNA
You're doing fine.
SIDDHATTA
I've got to suffer more. I've got to defeat this bag of bones.
MAHANAMA
You've already suffered greater than anyone alive.
SIDDHATTA
Tomorrow - rice one hundred grains. Next day ninety-nine, next ninety-eight and on.
KONDANNA
But --
Siddhatta's face shows only madness.
SIDDHATTA
No buts, kill the body.
Kondanna and Mahanama look at each other in fear.
