The Ballad of the Salty Sea
The Map of the Pacific Ocean.
Once I didn't know how to read it.
My name is Pandora,
Pandora Groovesnore
I met Corto when I was a child.
It was November 1913, precisely the first of November.
On that day I saw Corto Maltese for the very first time.
Now I'm a good man's wife.
But when my cousin Cain comes to visit me,
we always draw out this map, ruined by the sprays
of salty water and by time.
We unfold it slowly, almost ceremoniously.
We think back of that adventure we like to call
our ballad.
We simply say "the ballad"
but it was the turning point of our lives.
Nothing could tear us apart, my cousin and I.
We were castaways, lost in the middle of the Pacific,
surrounded by mysterious islands and adults we couldn't understand.
The First World War hadn't been declared yet,
and it seemed to me as distant and unlikely
as the day when I would turn twenty.
Yet, on board of terrible Captain Rasputin’s catamaran,
which had rescued us,
no one would have bet a bottle of rum
on the chances of the peace.
On the other hand, nobody wished for it.
Everyone wanted that war:
pirates, sailors, soldiers and spies.
Cain had succeeded to determine with precision
the exact point where we had crossed Rasputin’s route,
between the 155° meridian and the 6° parallel,
and also the point where, after a while,
we were rescued by a Dutch boat.
He told me that during the first months of the war
a part of the Pacific had been under the Germans
but thanks to the Japanese, the Allies succeeded in getting rid of the Prussians.
Cain gets excited when he recalls Pitcairn.
That island is so small it doesn't appear on the papers
and it's there that in January 1790
the mutineers of the Bounty, led by Lord Chief Fletcher Christian,
chose to hide together with some Tahitian women.
That story was told him by Corto.
It still makes him daydream.
We always think about the "Escondida",
the hidden island,
the Monk's island,
our mysterious island.
Our "ballad" lasted longer than a year,
the year 1914,
a year when everything changed:
the world, its frontiers
and two youths, Cain and me.
But no, nothing has changed.
The Pacific is always the biggest,
the most violent, the most indifferent.
As calm as a lake
or as violent as a volcano.
I'm the Pacific Ocean, I'm the biggest of all.
But I'm not always Pacific.
I've just calmed down,
but yesterday I dusted away
three or four islands
and a bunch of nutshells.
I wonder how this one could make it.
Perhaps because captain Rasputin knows his business,
perhaps because his sailors come from the Fijis,
or maybe because today is "Tarowean",
"the day of the surprises".
Old pig!
Wild cat!
Don't you dare touch me!
And that's how you thank
the man who risked his life to save
the two of you?
Cain! Is he alive?
Captain Rasputin! Come, quick!
They're calling me,
but first I want you to understand this:
on this ship, the only one who can lift his hands against others is me.
Captain Rasputin!
That's Corto Maltese.
Last time his boat was bigger.
Obviously this could be a good occasion to get rid of him,
but the Monk would not agree.
One day or another one I'll make you shut that big mouth of yours, Cranio.
Forever.
And so, Corto,
are you sun tanning?
Among all the sharks in the Pacific I had to meet you...
Given your situation, you should be more polite.
What happened to you?
Help me get on board. We'll speak later.
You aren't being very nice, you know...
I could also leave you there.
Of course you could,
but then you'd never hear my story...
Come on, pick him up!
So?
How did you lose your ship?
Give me a drink.
It's me who gives the orders here.
Help yourself.
So, Corto, will you tell me or not?
It's a love story Rasputin,
a story of love and honour.
A long time ago I made a promise to a girl.
The promise was sincere,
but crazy.
The girl was beautiful.
It looks like
my boatswain
was her brother.
He set my men against me.
They took up arms...
And they didn't kill you?
Damn savages! They always leave things half-done.
Maybe they want to try their luck as pirates.
We cannot blame them.
After all they've learned it from us.
At least I know how to restrain my men.
Now what? Why are you looking at me that way?
You have a tired face, mate.
Try and sleep with both eyes shut.
Maybe you'll get sweeter.
And who are you?
Pandora Groovesnore, sir.
Groovesnore?
From the family of the famous ship-owners from Sydney?
Thaddeus Groovesnore is my father.
Who did that to you?
Your friend the captain.
Friend is a big word.
Let's say we have some business in common,
at the moment.
Is that what we were waiting for?
Yes.
Where are the youths?
Downstairs, in the cabin.
How strange,
it looks like a Fijian catamaran
but the Fijians never get so far towards the west.
Maybe the hurricane forced them to change their route.
Maybe they need help.
Look commander,
they're hoisting a flag.
That's most unusual.
There's a white officer with some black sailors.
Pandora
Finally!
I thought you'd never wake up again.
My head hurts.
Where are we?
It's alright.
We're on a catamaran,
but the crew behaves strangely.
I believe they're pirates.
Don't worry, I'll take care of them.
I don't like that boat,
I don't like it at all.
Sometimes you remind me of my sister, Van Herdern.
She no longer felt safe in Rotterdam,
so she moved to a small village near the German border,
but she miscalculated
because now, with the rumours about the war,
she feels even less safe.
Lately I've heard
she doesn't even go out anymore.
Poor Marike.
Hello captain.
Captain,
in the name of His Imperial Majesty
I take possession of this ship and its load.
You're transporting coal, aren't you?
I don't understand...
We aren't at war...
Because everything is delayed in the South Pacific.
How humiliating, isn't it?
So, this time we have decided to take the initiative.
Then...
you're pirates!
Of course.
What was that?
I don't know.
I'll go and see.
What happened?
Go back inside.
Assassin!
He died immediately,
there's nothing we can do for him.
Put those idiots in a lifeboat.
with some luck they'll be able to find an island.
We better do what he's saying.
Why have you killed that man?
To each their own methods, Corto.
Now I have two boats,
while yours was stolen,
therefore don't preach to me.
You were supposed to take the coal, not to kill him for fun.
Who told you it was fun?
We'll see how the Monk will react.
Oh, the Monk... No one can ever read his mind.
Come on, move away,
or I'll make you regret it.
Let down the lifeboat.
At least give us some water!
You don't need it.
Rasputin, no!
I can't see anything.
Listen,
the important thing is for us to be alive.
They know our parents are rich,
I'm sure they won't do us harm.
Perhaps someone on the boat could...
...someone could help us.
I'm scared, Cain.
You're completely crazy.
Why?
In these times
we can't afford to leave any witnesses.
Rasputin, you're a filthy coward.
Just move a finger and you're dead.
But...
you saved my life.
Moor the catamaran. Let's leave, quickly!
Lock up this idiot till he calms down.
Captain Rasputin wants to see you.
It's cool upstairs,
and the sea looks beautiful.
Let's go.
Looks like you need me.
Me? Need you?
I have never said such a thing.
Very well, end of discussion.
Soon we'll reach the island of Kaiserine
and if the Germans see the two Groovesnores
they'll take them under their protection,
and you can forget your ransom.
You can't bet on that.
I can instead,
and since you don't trust Cranio...
Not even you, I trust you no more!
Of course you don't,
but there's no one left
unfortunately.
You can't always solve everything with a gun.
Listen,
once in Kaiserine I'll sell the coal to the Germans,
while you stay with the youths on the catamaran, agreed?
And then we'll share the ransom, me and you,
leaving out the Monk.
I think you're crazy, Rasputin.
Sooner or later the Monk will get to know.
Cranio is on his side.
Nobody trusts him anymore,
not even the Monk.
We'll make it, Pandora.
Kaiserine
is where we're headed to.
New Guinea? But it's German territory!
Exactly. As soon as we have met the Germans
they'll put us under their protection.
I don't think they'll let us show up.
Our parents are rich
and they surely want to ask them for a ransom.
I think your cousin is right, young fellow.
You were lucky so far, and if you want to keep being lucky
you'd better not have your brain work too much.
Especially you, Cain.
Stop calling me by name.
We have nothing in common.
Alright,
but if you want me to be polite, you have to be as well
otherwise go to hell.
Kaiserine!
Captain Corto!
Captain Rasputin wants to speak to you.
Too many captains, aren't there?
Take the youths inside. I'm going.
Hey, wait!
Damn it, that cannot be!
But what are they doing?
We won't be able to meet the Germans.
Release the moorings!
See you by the mouth of the river, as agreed.
Do you think they will offer you champagne?
I don't really hope so.
I'm going there for our business's sake,
so don't play tricks, understand?
Wow, you're scaring me!
So?
What are you going to do with us?
We'll go fishing.
Are you cold, Slütter?
Here comes our coal,
it should warm you up.
Captain Rasputin has organized things well,
it's good to deal with professionals.
Professionals?
Yes, Slütter
you're about to meet
a real modern pirate.
You seem shocked.
"Surprised" is more correct.
I didn't know the Kaiser's Navy
had similar allies.
You're no longer at the Academy, Slütter.
In a while, nothing will shock you anymore.
Welcome to Kaiserine.
Admiral Von Stecke is very sorry for not to being here,
You'll have to deal with me.
You aren't too disappointed, I hope...
On the contrary, Galland.
To our deal.
Aren't you going to drink, Slütter?
This champagne is tepid.
Don't be too demanding, please.
In this dirty country everything that isn't boiling hot must be welcome.
Don't you agree, Rasputin?
I like this country,
and the champagne, yet Mr. Slütter
doesn't look happy.
Slütter never looks happy,
but I assure you he's full of joy,
he only needs a little lesson in Realpolitik.
This champagne is undrinkable indeed.
Let's talk about something more serious.
It's a real pleasure to deal with you, Galland.
Calm down, stop it!
Stop what, huh?
Rasputin is sipping champagne
while we're rotting in here!
The world is going to shit,
that beast can't even use a fork.
I can see you're accustomed to shellfish, captain.
Not particularly, but I like crabs.
How about you, lieutenant?
He lost his appetite when he lost the case
which contained his books.
It disappeared between Lubec and Surabaya.
A tragedy.
What kinds of books? By Goethe?
By Goethe, Lenau,
and above all Rilke.
"Who, if I screamed, would hear me
among the ranks of angels?"
I feel like shouting too, sometimes.
It can't be farther than sixty meters.
I could swim, speak to a German soldier and...
They would shoot you.
If the Germans and these pirates are partners,
I don't think they'll renounce everything only to help us.
I don't recognize you, Pandora.
Maybe you're afraid?
Do as you wish.
I don't want to spend the rest of my life in regret.
Cain!
When the war breaks out
all the German bases will be neutralized.
We'll have to get by with our two torpedo boats
and a submarine.
Obviously we can't make a legal war
therefore we'll lower the German flag.
We're talking piracy here!
Call it as you wish.
The Germans will show the British
that the sea doesn't belong to them at all.
We need provisions for these boats,
and some fuel...
Captain Rasputin offered us this Dutch collier.
When the war breaks out he'll give us the fuel.
And what shall we give back to captain Rasputin?
The best thing of all apart from friendship, Slütter: gold.
Gold... and your collaboration.
My collaboration?
Cain?
Good evening Pandora.
I thought you wouldn't mind chatting a little.
Get out of here at once!
As you wish.
Corto Maltese?
Wait... You're right, I feel like chatting.
I know you won't set us free,
but I also know I'll never make it by myself.
Cain is too young. You instead...
you're a man, you aren't afraid of Rasputin.
Me?
Of course I'm afraid of him, I'm not that crazy after all...
What do you want?
I don't know, I thought that maybe, you and I...
What are you saying?
- Enough! I'm going... - No! I... Stay...
You know what, Pandora?
Let's go to Manila.
- We'll get married and forget the rest. - No! What are you doing?
Let go of me! Let go of me!
You really thought you could fool me with that farce?
Farce? I don't understand!
Don't worry, now you'll understand. Bring him here!
Don't be afraid, he wasn't hurt.
Luckily I was on board instead of Rasputin.
It takes some courage to do
what you did,
but I'm an old sea wolf,
and it takes more than a spoilt brat to fool me.
One day I'll kill you, Corto Maltese!
What a night... Do you think she'd really kill me, Cranio?
If we stayed by the mouth of the river, she could.
If we stay here we'll get swept away!
Out! Come on!
Pandora!
Dam it!
Pandora!
I can't believe it! Pandora...
That cannot be...
Are you still there, Friday?
My name isn't Friday. And you aren't Robinson Crusoe.
- You speak my language? - Yes, and I also have a name.
My name is Tarao. I was on the catamaran as well.
And you know the story of Robinson Crusoe.
A teacher told me,
she gave some lessons in our village.
I had a look around while you were sleeping. I saw nobody.
I'm not surprised. I also believe that Pandora is dead,
- I'm quite sure that... - ...Listen!
- Oh, No! - Yes...
Don't do anything. Let me speak.
- Then? - Everything's great.
The beach and the jungle are full of cannibals.
If I could choose, I wouldn't like to be anywhere else.
Why are you looking at me like that?
I understand you, you know, but I hate
to be with someone who said they want to kill me,
and if it weren't for the cannibals,
I'd leave you alone in your boudoir, my little romantic bijou.
Stop it!
It's not fair for Cain to die while you...
A group of Papuans.
Perhaps the same ones who caught Cain.
- Cain was caught? But then... - Then what? Cain's alive,
but he's a prisoner of the Papuas'.
Damn liar, why did you lie to me?
Maybe not to cause you a fit of hysteria!
Come on, give me the gun.
You're too young to play...
Cain!
I thought you had died in the shipwreck!
How did you make it? Did you swim up to the shore?
No, Corto Maltese saved me, otherwise I would have drowned.
And where is he now?
I think I've killed him.
Here they are. They must have taken a decision.
The men of mysteries are going out of the big house.
Wait a minute! But what...
Calm down Pandora. Don't be afraid now.
You... you know my name?
I know many things.
Come and see.
I thought I'd killed him.
It would have been a big loss. Why did you shoot him?
- But you are... - Yes, that's me, Cranio.
- But then you're a cannibal too! - No,
I have taken the place of one of their wizards and healed Corto.
This situation can't last long.
I have set a pirogue, and now I need your help.
You want us to help you? Cain and I?
Don't worry, Tarao will take care of the pirogue.
I trust him more than you. You're only two whites, after all.
It could be a trap.
Think about it, after we've helped Cranio,
what can prevent him from handing us over to the cannibals?
He counts on us, Cain, and on Tarao.
He trusts your skills as a sailor.
I hope he's right.
Fire! Fire!
It's time!
I can't believe it all went so well.
I have a bad sensation.
Shoot, come on! Shoot!
You too, Cain! What are you waiting for?
Trigger happy Pandora!
What if I dug a nice hole in your head now?
- Cain! - Pandora has been very brave,
we're out of danger at last. How do you feel Corto?
What are you singing, Tarao?
- The song of the sbimpe fish. - Really?
And you think it'll show up all of a sudden because you sing?
- I don't think anything. - A submarine!
Corto! but where the hell were you, you ugly bastard!
Why, maybe you know who you father is?
You wanted to see me, Mr. Slütter?
Yes, Mr. Maltese.
It's about some delicate matter.
It's about the girl,
I'd like you to tell Mr. Rasputin to leave her alone.
Why don't you tell him yourself?
I'd rather avoid accidents, but if you force me...
I won't force you to do anything.
You're doing everything yourself.
I'd like to have some explanation, though.
How come those youths are on board?
Their ship wrecked and we picked them up.
Simple as that.
It seems to me a bit too simple...
I like Slütter.
As long as we're with him, we're safe.
I doubt it, he's always a soldier at war.
Only because his eyes are blue...
I apologize, I hope not to disturb you, but...
I'd like to have something explained.
I was wondering how come you didn't get off the boat in Kaiserine.
Perhaps you were kept prisoners?
Leave my cousin alone.
I'll tell you how come.
So when we reached Kaiserine
Corto Maltese took us away not to let the Germans see us.
Rasputin and Maltese made an agreement.
They want to ask for a ransom.
- What do you want to do with that gun? - Are you spying on me?
Who me? No... you know I love you. Are you angry?
- Go away, Corto, otherwise... - Otherwise what?
- I'll kill you! - Will you?
Try to.
But, what the hell do you want?
Haven't you heard? The boy said everything to Slütter!
And who cares? What difference does it make?
Do you think that Prussian will disobey the orders
to help two spoilt brats?
I cannot see what you see, but you may be right.
You're so stupid that it's not difficult for you to be right.
You find me stupid?
We'll discuss it later. Let's go get us something to drink.
Honestly I don't understand you.
I got us out of trouble
and you're pulling a long face, cousin?
Do you really think that men like Slütter and Rasputin and Corto Maltese
will let a 16 year-old boy manipulate them?
Why not?
Now that they're all against one another
there's no longer need for that.
And then you should have taken care of it
- as you're 17 instead... - Great! You're so cunning...
At least I did something.
Yes you have, but you don't care for the consequences.
"Alone, alone, all, all alone...
"Alone, alone, alone, on a wide wide sea!
"And never a saint took pity on my soul in agony.
"The many men, so beautiful! And they all dead did lie;
"And a thousand thousand slimy things lived on; and so did I".
How come you're here, my romantic bijou?
- I was looking for you. - Don't look for me,
I don't want to fight.
I'm sorry to have been so impulsive the other time.
The other time? Why, will there be others?
- No, I didn't mean that. - Then what did you mean?
Nothing. You'll never take me seriously anyways.
Take charge of the submarine and take me to my father!
I thought millionaires were crazy, but now I know for sure.
Maybe it's something they put in your dollars.
Listen to me well.
The best thing that you and your cousin can do
- is to stay close to me. - Really? And why?
Because I bring luck.
I'm really curious to know what the Monk will decide.
If you're referring to the youths,
the Monk won't decide anything at all.
I'm responsible for them, just me.
It doesn't have to be an unpleasant responsibility...
Watch out, Rasputin. Don't forget whom you're speaking to.
Don't make me laugh, lieutenant...
I know what you have in mind very well.
You won't forget her that way!
What's happening up there?
Nothing. Slütter is fighting with Rasputin,
and I think I know why.
You'll pay for that, I swear! You better never turn your back on me anymore!
Exactly, and in the meantime you watch out, too
otherwise you'll get hurt.
You'll pay for that too, Corto!
All of you!
- Do you recognise that flag, Mr. Maltese? - Of course.
It's flag of the Monk, the king of the sea.
It may seem foolish,
but I like to give a proper name to things.
What's the name of that island which isn't reported by any map?
Escondida, the hidden island.
The fleets of three nations looked for it for a long time
but they couldn't find it.
- I hope you appreciate your fortune. - Look, lieutenant!
I suppose they're still friends of yours...
Very dear friends.
They have just prevented us from bumping against the reef.
Welcome to the Escondida, guys. My name's Sbrindolin.
The Monk will be back soon.
In the meantime, if you need anything
let me know.
Are you still angry?
No, I never got angry.
- That's good. - It wasn't worth it.
Have you seen how polite everyone is here?
I'd like to know what the Monk looks like.
What should he look like?
He certainly is a pirate like the others.
A pirate like the others? You can't generalize...
Corto Maltese for example has always helped us.
There has to be something good in him.
I think we could even make friends with him. Don't you agree, Cain?
Cain?
Are you talking to yourself?
I have just met him in the courtyard, he seemed furious.
I can drive you around the island if you want,
so you'll pass the time waiting for the Monk to be back.
Pretty girl...
Who's this Monk?
Cain says that according to the native he's 200 years old.
Who knows... 200 years? Sometimes I believe it too.
But it's not true. Perhaps he'll tell you his story.
You're not as bad as you try to look.
Have you come to keep me company?
In any case, you haven't found anything!
Are you crazy? What's wrong with you?
Why have you destroyed my hut?
Don't pretend not to understand, you perfectly know why.
I don't know what you're talking about!
Damn you! You thought you could kill me, but sooner or later I'll kill you!
I still haven't killed anyone today.
But I could start from you.
You're such a liar!
When I got in you were cleaning the rifle!
Whatever… The day I'll kill you
I won't need a rifle.
My hands will do!
Corto Maltese, but...
What's wrong? Maybe you've you seen a ghost?
I don't know what you mean...
Sbrindolin!
- Why are you dressed like a nun? - It's for Miss Pandora,
so she'll think this place is refined.
Get out of here, idiot.
I know you.
You're annoyed because you didn't think of it yourself.
Is that you, Sbrindolin?
No, it's me. How are you, romantic bijou?
Corto! I was told...
You saved my life.
Now I'd like...
I would like...
What?
Promise me you'll never hurt Cain.
Promise me.
Good morning everyone.
I've got some interesting news for you.
On 4th August 1914, England has declared war to Germany
and therefore we're at war as well.
I have already set two islands for the Germans to refuel.
Monk,
I've taken the coal to Kaiserine;
I've also picked up two youths who are worth a fortune,
but Corto Maltese and lieutenant Slütter interfere with my plans.
The youths must not be involved.
I suggest that we take them to some island of the Fijis'.
They mustn't be involved.
No one can tell me what to do.
No one.
I thought you were less impulsive Mr. Slütter.
Your commander ordered you to be at my disposal.
Never forget it! And you Corto Maltese,
have lost a schooner and the power on your men?
Because of a woman.
However, power
is something you've got, till you have to use it.
Your answer is subtle.
Unfortunately it also shows you're unable to command.
You're an individualist, Maltese.
You're a subversive.
That's not bad,
but isn't good either.
Corto, you'll stay on the island with Cranio.
Slütter, get ready to set sail. We'll leave in two days.
That's all.
The Monk said nothing about the youths.
Don't be worried about them.
they're worth a lot of money, they aren't at risk.
How about Rasputin?
Rasputin doesn't matter. And then I'll stay there.
I wanted to tell you...
that despite what the Monk said,
I believe you're a good commander.
A good commander...
Who gives a damn...
Come out!
Oh, it's you. What do you want?
- You want to kill me as well? - Can I have a drink?
Help yourself, as you're there.
Since you whites have been here, everything has gone wrong.
Every people is specialized in something. That's what we do best.
So far, we've tried to make the best of things,
but I don't like the idea to see my people involved in your wars.
Nobody likes the war.
That's why there are so many.
However I reckon there's some advantage in it.
The Melanesians are standing united for the very first time.
The people from the Fijis, the Samoa and Tonga islands are discussing it.
It is as if we should mend a big coat.
I hope you have a big sewing machine,
because if you have to do it by hand...
You look tired, I better leave you.
Thanks for the drink.
We have to find a way to escape.
- Will you help me? - Yes.
- We'll leave together. - When?
When the moment is right.
You're too impatient.
You'll never change.
When you want something, you don't mind what others think.
I've asked you to help me, not to preach on me.
You're the one who shot, aren't you?
I didn't know Pandora was in the car!
You wanted the guilt to fall on me!
Dam you!
That's enough, Rasputin!
If he really did what you say,
the boy's not an idiot.
Will you tell me your name?
Cain Groovesnore, sir, of the Groovesnores from Sydney.
Rasputin, from now on you'll be personally responsible
- for Mr. Groovesnore's life. - Me? But... But actually...
If he dies, you'll die.
Well...
Alright Monk. Don't get angry. I...
Enough now, leave me alone.
So you're Elijah Groovesnore's son...
Yes sir, and Pandora is the daughter of my uncle Thaddeus.
Tell me,
you have another uncle, Renaldo. Do you?
Yes sir, he's a commander in the Australian Navy.
And is there also a certain Thomas among the Groovesnores?
He died in a fire on the day when Thaddeus married aunt Margretha.
But how come you know our family?
Uncle Thomas...
But we never speak of him at home.
- Did you know him? - And Margretha?
- How about your aunt Margretha? - She died when Pandora was born.
Uncle Thaddeus raised her.
He adores her.
Listen,
if you have a heart, you should let our family know we're alive.
A heart is a muscle which pumps blood, Cain, not sentimentalism.
But...
After all those questions I thought...
Don't think.
And above all, never do it when I'm there.
I reserve that privilege to myself.
- What happened? - I don't know.
He got in, stared at the girl and went crazy.
Take care of her, I'll go and check.
I don't understand, he's decided to leave immediately.
He wants to leave me here and go with you? It's not fair!
I've never seen him like that, we better not leave him alone.
You're right Cranio. I'll go.
You're strange, Monk. What's happening to you, tell me...
I've seen the Devil, Corto. I've seen the Devil.
And I was afraid.
Don't leave me alone, my friends. Don't leave me alone.
No one will leave you, Monk. You're talking nonsense.
- Do you really want to leave Rasputin here? - Why not?
Cranio will stay, too.
- He will guard them. - Cranio?
Sooner or later he'll need to sleep,
and Rasputin will get rid of him.
He'll steal the money we've made,
he'll inform the British Admiralty,
he'll bargain over the ransom for the two youths
- and he'll disappear. - What if you stay instead?
Do you think I'm stupid, Corto Maltese?
But what do you want? I don't understand you anymore!
I want you to come with me.
I don't want you to stay here and flirt with Pandora
- while I'm away. - Oh, that's it then!
Don't laugh!
I forbid you to laugh!
- You don't know anything! I forbid you! - Let go of me!
Cranio, you'll take my place here.
I want you to watch over Rasputin, and the youths to be treated well.
Let's go lieutenant Slütter. It's time.
Do you think it's normal for us to be equipped like this
just to go and pick up crabs on a desert island?
- There's no difference... - Silence, you two!
Why don't they pick up their own crabs?
And I don't even like them...
Don't you? I do, instead.
Hey, look down there!
Sergeant, sergeant! We've found a message! It's important!
"We've just been stopped
"by a German submarine and by an armed freighter.
"They're forcing us to follow them".
The signature is:
"Captain Perez, embarked on the Bonito.
"November 1914."
The Bonito?
Hadn't it sunk three months earlier?
Goddam Krauts!
But where the hell do they get the coal?
All the German islands are taken.
My dear, I'll gladly leave that to the Admiralty.
Submarines in the Pacific... we'll make them dance.
Good morning Cranio.
- It's a beautiful day. - Indeed. Good morning Pandora.
Where is Corto Maltese?
It's all right, Pandora. Corto is wounded
and not far from here, hidden,
but Rasputin doesn't have to know.
What about lieutenant Slütter?
I've heard indirect news.
Many British ships sank in the roadstead of Papeete
and he and the Monk keep bothering the cargo boats of the Allies.
But who is this Monk?
The Monk?
The Monk is a defrocked priest.
Well... Actually he's a Protestant ex-shepherd
who has taken the place of an excommunicated monk.
Well, something like that.
In any case, we better not have priests on the island.
We have our wizards and they're enough for us.
The Monk is okay,
as well as Rasputin is a brute and an assassin.
But he's also useful.
As regards Corto Maltese...
He's a free man, he knows many things,
but he never takes any responsibilities.
Ship!
Sailing ship! War ship!
Halt!
He wanted to warn the Japanese!
He did, but now he's changed his mind.
Haven't you, Cain?
I haven't! I'm going to... Aah!
Hello?
This island is taboo.
we're initiating the young lads into magic. What do you want?
We're sorry Chief. We couldn't know.
We only want some fruit and some crabs.
Take all the fruit and crabs that you want,
then return to your ship.
Help! Help!
Who shouted? What's happening down there?
I'm very sorry, lieutenant.
If the girl hadn't shouted you could have left for good, but now...
Don't be fool. You cannot face a war ship.
You'd better...
But what the...
Bravo, Cranio! Well done, my friend.
Have you seen?
There's nothing left of it.
The ball must have centred their ammunition store.
- Yes, what a pity. - A pity? You must be joking.
The Germans will pay us for that.
Now we only have to punish that little traitoress as she deserves.
You won't punish anybody, Rasputin.
You heard what the Monk said.
Listen Cranio, the Monk isn't eternal, understand?
Do you know what I hate about you?
Almost everything.
Idiot!
Stupid cannibal.
Where have you come from?
When have you...
Corto Maltese!
Cain? Pandora?
It's time!
All's ready, the beach is deserted.
It's the right time.
The pirogue isn't very big but we can make it.
I have taken some food, it will last for two or three days.
Wait a moment... Where's Corto Maltese?
He isn't dead. Cranio hid him on the island, but he cannot...
If Corto's wounded we can't leave him here with Rasputin the Mad.
- You two leave, I'll stay. - Then, I'll stay as well.
No.
You have to go to inform the Admiralty.
They have to send someone here. It's better this way, Pandora.
- What are you doing here? What's happened? - Cranio is dead.
- Rasputin? - Yes.
He's gone completely crazy.
Pandora has run away with Tarao.
Cranio said that you were wounded,
so I've stayed. For you.
For me?
Then I have to think I have a friend?
But it's good for you to have stayed,
because we're going to have much fun.
They came on three big boats.
The man who led the fleet had tattoos all over his body.
He observed the flight of the birds to get his bearings,
the direction of the waves and the tides,
and at night he watched the stars.
He was looking for an island.
And when the water and the air refreshed,
Tamatea saw a long bright cloud on the horizon.
Natoirangi, the wizard, encouraged the rowers,
and they doubled their effort. ...Why are you laughing?
I'm not laughing at all, your story is fascinating.
Go ahead, Tarao.
At sunset the cloud took shape and consistence.
It was Ao-Tea-Roa, that you call New Zealand.
In those times, its beaches were infested by giant birds.
Tamatea and his men fought them,
and so they earned the right to live there.
Now you know why the Maori are scattered along all the islands,
and don't fear the sea.
Then, I don't have to fear it either.
- How beautiful! - Yes.
But when they fly like that,
it means it won't be windy for a long time.
- A shark! - It's Mao!
He's followed us for a while.
Don't be afraid, Pandora.
Mao is our friend. He only wants some company.
Now you better sleep.
Alright. But will you?
I'm not tired.
Hey, shark!
Lead me to Ao-Tea-Roa!
Lead me, as you led Tamatea and Arawa,
our ancestors!
The crew is ready for the inspection, lieutenant.
Spats aren't a problem anymore.
Don't you think, Mateau?
Well...
The Monk wants to see you.
Alright, I'll go straight to him.
I've tried to call the Escondida for three days,
but Cranio doesn't respond.
I'm afraid that something happened.
- What do you think? - Me?
I think they don't want to speak to us.
That's impossible. I'm the Monk, the king of the Escondida.
You've asked me what I thought, and I've replied.
What are you going to do?
Let’s go to the Escondida.
We'll miss a good prey.
It's a pity. A steamboat full of women and children.
It would have been one of our noblest actions.
You're too sarcastic, lieutenant.
We're at war, and the war kills anyone.
You cannot choose your victims...
...only to satisfy your chivalrous mind.
Shark, I'm looking for an island.
It shouldn't be too far from here,
it's called...
Bura-nea!
We have arrived, Pandora! Look!
Bye-bye Mao!
Joa-rana!
I couldn't help it!
Cranio wanted to surrender to the Japanese! Believe me!
I was forced to kill him! It's the truth!
And the youths? The Groovesnores?
They've disappeared.
We've looked for them everywhere but they've disappeared.
And you tell me this way?
We need to talk.
- A shark? - Exactly. It's a friend of his.
I know, uncle Renaldo, it's hard to believe
but I can assure you it's the truth.
I have seen it with my eyes.
A shark...
If I report that to the Admiralty
everyone will laugh at me.
What matters is to find the Escondida, right?
Tarao can find the right direction watching the stars,
and soon it will be night.
Monk!
The British will land here soon.
Come on, you know them...
It will take them months to find the Escondida.
With such a navigator as Tarao?
They'll find us in a flash.
Then what do you suggest?
Let's abandon the Escondida.
Damn it! This island is mine.
And then the Monk can die, but he won't run away.
Well, die then.
I can't, I've done it once already.
There has to be a solution.
Maybe you can half die and half surrender.
Corto, do you know what I like in you?
You always see the funny side of things.
I'm glad you're safe and sound.
Corto?
Oh, that's you. Good evening.
Good evening Slütter.
The German fleet in the South Pacific have surrendered.
I have done
shameful things for nothing.
Here Germany has already lost the war.
So the Groovesnores have escaped?
Yes. Pandora has run away and Cain is in a safe place.
Very well. Let him stay there.
It's better for the Monk not to find him.
- Why? - People speak more easily
when they're locked in a submarine. Also the Monk.
He told me many things about Cain,
Pandora and all that family of nutty billionaires.
- Did I scare you Cain? - A little.
I didn't hear you come.
The British will land soon.
We'll be forced to abandon the island.
You'll have to come away with me.
I'll be your hostage, won't I?
Not at all.
I'll take you away with me because I love you.
You mean a lot to me, Cain.
Also Pandora, but unfortunately she isn't here.
Pandora?
What happened when you went to her room?
I saw someone
- I thought I'd never see again. - Who?
Pandora's mother.
- Margretha. - Aunt Margretha?
Yes, my boy.
I have loved her.
Very much.
But who are you?
I'm the Monk, who do you think I am?
You seem disappointed, Corto.
I've often wondered who was concealed by the habit of the Monk,
and now that I know I'm afraid
it won't make my life more interesting.
It's certainly snowing in my hometown,
Lubecca,
and here it's boiling hot.
Look at those girls dressed in leaves.
It would be a pity to wait till autumn
to keep them company, don't you think?
You aren't too bad for being a pirate.
I do what I can, Mr. Slütter.
However, you aren't too bad too,
for being an officer.
Now that you've finally had your kingdom back,
perhaps you should think of filling its safes.
- What happened? - The Monk escaped.
He wanted to take me away.
Slütter didn't let him.
The Monk shot him...
then he left.
I think he wants to take possession of the submarine.
Save... my men...
The British don't have to find him. Help me.
He... has killed them all.
No, not all. At least not yet.
Resist, I'll try to save you.
I'm going to hurt you. Stay calm,
or you'll never be credited in the saga of the Nibelungs.
Try to bandage him.
We'll take the Monk's yacht.
- I'll go set it and be right back. - But...
Do as I said. I'll get back for you two.
Halt!
Tarao! You made your way...
from cannibal to soldier in the New Zealand army.
I've never been a cannibal,
but my grandfather was.
therefore don't force me to imitate him.
I know. It was so to laugh.
You'll be pleased to hear that Pandora is safe and sound.
Of course I am.
Cain is safe and sound as well,
therefore you can be happy too.
Now go ahead, and no jokes!
You're so full of piss...
Rasputin! What are you doing in that beautiful suit?
Sbrindolin has betrayed us.
He had the New Zealanders land and recognize him as a king.
King of the Escondida?
It's ridiculous. Follow me.
Corto Maltese, born in La Valletta.
- Are you a British citizen? - Exactly.
Strange. How come you know this gang of pirates?
Which gang of pirates?
For me they were all friends.
You've got a strange idea of friendship.
Perhaps,
but that makes life more interesting.
Come on, move, you bunch of idlers!
Tarao?
I'm happy to see you again. Is Pandora...
She's well.
She's still on board of the torpedo-boat.
She should land soon.
Perfect. And Corto Maltese?
We know you've hidden
the commander of the German submarine.
For some obscure reason the Admiralty
- wants this gentleman to be... - He's a lieutenant.
Lieutenant Slütter.
...they want Mr. Slütter
to be tried summarily in a military court.
- Take us to him and we... - You what?
We'll give you a thousand pounds and a safe-conduct.
Wow, inflation is galloping!
Thirty pieces of gold used to be enough...
Take him away!
The Victoria's on fire!
Help!
Cheer up, we're coming!
There's another one there!
Be careful.
He could be a German.
Christian Slütter,
you have been recognized guilty of the following crimes:
piracy, high treason, homicide,
sabotage and espionage.
Accordingly, this court condemns you to the death penalty.
You'll be shot tomorrow,
19th January 1915.
Have you got something to say?
You can all go to hell!
That's nonsense!
Slütter isn't a pirate, even less a traitor.
Don't be childish, Pandora.
Slütter has sunk the Victoria with 15 men on board,
as well as many other merchant ships.
Perhaps it doesn't matter to you,
but it does to the public opinion.
That's why the Admiralty wants the head of your friend.
What would you do,
uncle Renaldo,
if you senior officers ordered you to act against your principles?
Unfortunately, I don't have any more principles.
I prefer the law and the facts.
Answer my question.
What do you want me to say?
It's Slütter who was condemned, not me.
The only thing I can do now
is to grant you the permission to see him.
Thanks, I don't want your pity.
I know you aren't a pirate
- or a traitor. - Yes.
But unfortunately it won't be enough.
I understand their point of view.
after all I could have gone against the orders,
but there were the hierarchies,
the traditions... all that bullshit.
Prisoner Slütter, it's time.
If you to confess, the chaplain...
Confess what? That I've obeyed my commander's orders?
Let's put an end to this hypocrisy.
I'm ready.
Miss Groovesnore, you better leave now.
This isn't the right place for you.
I'll stay here.
I have to inform you that Commander Groovesnore
had the accusations of high treason and homicide withdrawn.
Thank him on my behalf.
I wish I could do it in person.
May I say a few words to my men, captain?
Ready!
Fire!
- It's over, Groovesnore. - I know, I'm not deaf.
Good, because we need to speak, Renaldo.
Now that the guy is dead I can tell you:
you've made a big mistake
having the accusations of high treason and homicide withdrawn.
The public opinion need culprits,
and if Slütter is innocent they'll demand other heads.
Yours, for example.
What should I do then?
Now Slütter's problems are over.
Let all the accusations be.
It's good to be generous and chivalrous,
but first of all think of the survivors,
and their career.
In a year you'll be rear-admiral. Don't ruin everything.
So you haven't left?
No.
But I will as soon as you have set Rasputin free.
I don't like this island anymore: there are too many soldiers.
Have no illusions, Rasputin will be condemned,
- to death. - You got Slütter,
- I think that's enough. - Get out of here!
It's easy for you to condemn those you don't know,
but you're very comprehensive with your loved ones.
What do you mean? Tell me.
I'll tell you all. I'm sure you'll find it interesting.
Once upon a time there were four brothers.
We'll call them Elijah, Thaddeus, Renaldo
and Thomas Groovesnore.
Thomas was in love with a girl
called Margretha,
but Margretha had been promised to Thaddeus.
Shut up, damn you!
Let me end my story.
Your brother Thomas Groovesnore
is also the Monk and the real father of Pandora.
and that's why you will release Rasputin,
so the Admiralty won't find out.
You!
You're blackmailing me!
To each their own methods.
Hey, sweet eyes, let's go.
You and I, end of the story.
Come on Rasputin, spare me.
I have done it for Slütter, not for you, but what is done is done.
Therefore come with me, and that's it.
Well, if you really care...
After all I like you.
I'll never forget what you've done for me.
From now on you'll be my best friend.
Me?
I'd rather be a friend of a tarantula's.
We'll take the yacht of the Monk.
We'll have to slip away before Groovesnore changes his mind.
One never knows with these soldiers...
They never practise what they preach.
We'll leave with the tide.
Hey!
I'm the one who decides here.
Corto!
I wanted to ask you...
I'd like to sail with you.
With me?
Sure. You're the best navigator I know.
Here they are, they're setting sail.
Already?
Come on, go! What are you waiting for?
I prefer to stay here.
I don't like goodbyes.
Corto! Corto Maltese!
She is dying with desire to say goodbye to you,
but she'll never do it.
Hey... Romantic bijou!
Good morning Corto Maltese.
You look beautiful, Pandora.
You remind me of a tango
I listened to in Buenos Aires many years ago.
Perhaps you were with someone who looked like me?
No.
I've always wanted to meet you
because you don't look like anybody else.
I cannot come with you.
I know.
Goodbye Pandora.
See you soon, Corto.
- Goodbye Cain. - Why goodbye?
We live in a big house in Cape Cod, with a beautiful white gate.
You'll find it easily.
You're invited too, Corto,
and all the people you want to bring.
See you, my friends.
See you.
That little idiot. Have you seen?
He hasn't invited me.
Of course he has. What does it mean:
"all the people you want to bring"?
Then you'll bring me?
I've never said that.
# Subtitles: lyliakar Many thanks to gm88 for his help! #