All language subtitles for LABALL~1-eng

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, Sl�tter?

Here comes our coal,

it should warm you up.

Captain Rasputin has
organized things well,

it's good to deal with professionals.

Professionals?

Yes, Sl�tter

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, Sl�tter.

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, Sl�tter?

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. Sl�tter

doesn't look happy.

Sl�tter 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, Sl�tter: 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. Sl�tter?

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 Sl�tter.

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 Sl�tter!

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 Sl�tter
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. Sl�tter 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 Sl�tter 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. Sl�tter.

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.

Sl�tter, 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
Sl�tter. 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 Sl�tter?

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 Sl�tter.

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. Sl�tter.

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.

Sl�tter 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 Sl�tter.

...they want Mr. Sl�tter

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 Sl�tter,

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!

Sl�tter isn't a
pirate, even less a traitor.

Don't be childish, Pandora.

Sl�tter 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 Sl�tter 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 Sl�tter, 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 Sl�tter is innocent
they'll demand other heads.

Yours, for example.

What should I do then?

Now Sl�tter'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 Sl�tter,

- 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 Sl�tter, 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! #