"KALATIR"

FADE IN:

EXT. MARS (OPTICAL) - LONG SHOT

The planet looms alone off in the vvoid of space. Zoom into the planet from deep space.

EXT. MARS (OVERLAY) - LONG SHOT

PLANET: Mars

DIAMETER: 4,000 Millis

SATELLITES: Two

EXT. MARS (OVERLAY) - MED. SHOT

Close to the planet it still looms off in space.

CITIES: Two

POPULATION: 2.4 Million

EXT. MARS AND FLEET (OPTICAL) - MEDD. SHOT

A small space fleet orbits the plannet. The ships consist of a Battlecruiser (a huge ship with three large fighter bays bathed in strange green light, is heavily armed and in the shape of a giant wing), three Destroyers (half the size of the Battlecruiser and heavily armored), seven Frigates (half the size of the Destroyers with a small fighter bay and some guns) and 19 Corvettes (quarter the size of a frigate with a very small bay and a few light guns).

EXT. MARS AND FLEET (OVERLAY) - MEDD. SHOT

MILITIA FORCE:

Battlecruiser ‑ 1

Destroyers ‑ 3

Frigates ‑ 7

Corvettes ‑ 19

EXT. MARS AND FLEET (OPTICAL) - MEDD. SHOT

The fleet continues on.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Power! Wealth! Prosperity! These arre concepts I could never grasp. But apparently the humanoids have no problem. As far back as their history goes they have been fighting their environment and each other for concepts that are in abundance. And when they finally do beat it, they pervert and twist it into something unrecognizable. Take their current government...

EXT. FLEET (OPTICAL) - CLOSE UP

Each ship has a large Russian Red sstar painted on its side. Below that are the words: “UNITED COMMUNISTIC FORCE” Some of the other ships have “DEMOCRATIC DEFENSE FORCE” scratched out.

EXT. EARTH - RUSSIAN CITY

A city circa early 1900’s. Lenin maarches through the streets with a large group of peasants.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Communism. It first appeared a few Centroids ago...

EXT. EARTH - RUSSIAN FARM

Circa 1920's. All sorts of Russianss of different sexes and ethnic backgrounds are tending to the fields and livestock.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

It was designed to wipe out hunger,, prejudice and spread the wealth so all were equal. In the beginning it actually worked...

INT. RUSSIAN CITY - STATE ROOM

Circa 1950's. A Russian politician who is finely dressed waltz into a room huge room which is expensively decorated. He marches up to a large table stacked with expensive food, pleasant servants stand at the ready.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

But as time went on, the system beccame perverted. The politicians diverted their promises from their people to themselves...

EXT. EARTH - BATTLEFIELDS

Flashes of several Russian armies uusing a variety of different conventional weapons of mass destruction on their enemies.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

At the same time military forces foocused on world domination. One by one, Democratic countries fell...

EXT. EARTH - FOOD LINE

There is a long line of Russian peaasants that seams to stretch off into the distance which leads into a supermarket. The shop keeper places a sign in the window which reads "OUT OF FOOD" The peasants gasp, some shake their fists in anger at the store but most of them just sadly turn away.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

But since the Socialist government focused on world supremacy it forgot about its people. They went hungry...

EXT. EARTH - GRAVE PIT

There is a long deep trench in a heeavily wooded area. On one side is the dirt dug up from the trench, on the other is a line of peasants. They are facing the pit and look terrified. Behind them is a line of Russian solders with rifles which they are pointing at the peasants. The solders fire and peasants fall into the trench. A tractor appears and starts pushing the dirt over the bodies.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Sections of the population were seggregated and weeded out due to their political beliefs or ethnic background...

EXT. EARTH - PARK

Circa 1980's. Many Americans of diffferent sexes, ethnic backgrounds and classes are enjoying a bright sunny day in a large grassy park. Some of them are eating on picnic tables which have all assortments of rich food.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

All the while the existing Democrattic governments of the world promised what Communism had set out to do...

INT. SCHOOL - VOTING BOOTHS

Many Americans are lined up outsidee voting booths.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

But the big difference was that it gave control to its people rather than itself...

EXT. EARTH - KREMLIN

Mobs of Russians are protesting outtside the Kremlin.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

It took a while, but the people of their planet became fed up. A revolt was imminent...

EXT. EARTH - BERLIN WALL

A mob of people are tearing down thhe Berlin wall.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

So the government that had controllled half of the Earth was overthrown by its own people. And not just part of the government, but the entire government...

EXT. EARTH - FUTURISTIC CITY>

Circa 2100's. People in futuristic garb and of all nations, creeds and colors walk happily through a modern city made of metal. It is decorated beautifully and there are parks with long lawns and trees everywhere.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Because of this a new Democratic woorld government was formed. For 200 KiloYerks the new government ruled and served the people...

EXT. EARTH - FUTURISTIC CITY>

Circa 2200's. The city is now dirtyy and rusting. Homeless people fill the streets. A squad of armored police assault some of the homeless while rest run in fear.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

But, like most political systems, tthere is a time when corruption and greed takes the place of good intention. In the end, the new government mirrored the old...

EXT. EARTH - ALLEY

A large group of homeless people arre gathered here, they surround a woman who is preaching. She holds up a large torn and tattered book with a Russian Star on it. They look at it with awe.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Because of this, and some humanoid repackaging, the old order looked mighty inviting...

EXT. EARTH - SMALL VILLAGE

This is a small town made of below standard metal structures. A group of ragged people are around the flag pole. A metal flag with a Russian Star is hoisted up.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

The old government was reborn. Firsst it appeared in isolated areas, but rapidly grew...

EXT. EARTH - FUTURISTIC CITY>

A group of people all baring the Ruussian Star are protesting. A squad of armored police rushes in and assaults them. They are driven back for a moment, then a large group joins the protesters. They rush the police and force them to flee.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

The World Government tried to oppreess it, but that only made it stronger...

EXT. SPACE - BATTLE

Several large spaceships from both sides fire laser and missile weapons at each other.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Until finally, it exploded into thee Great War of 2241! A war that lasted for sixteen KiloYerks, millions died on both sides. But most of the devastation happened in the last MaxiYerk of the war...

All of the Communist ships are desttroyed.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

For the entire war the Democrats haad had the upper hand. They had a larger military force, more allies and almost unlimited resources than the new Communists...

EXT. SPACE - SHIPS

Two groups of spacecraft, one Commuunist and one Democratic, approach each other. The Communists veer away and the Democratic continue forward.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

This wore down the Communists. Theiir resources were depleted. They were forced to call for an armistice. The war was finally over...

INT. NEPTUNE - MINE

Miners dressed in sub zero suits arre drilling through ice. They uncover a strange pink glowing ore. The miners stop and point at it. They are overjoyed.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

That is, until a huge vein of Flourreen was discovered on Neptune. It was the life blood of space travel and vital to most of their weapons of war...

EXT. NEPTUNE - MINE

Armed miners with different coloredd suits are fighting each other, it is basically a stalemate. Suddenly, Marines from the Democratic forces appear and gun everyone down.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Miners from many governments claimeed it. It resulted in armed actions. After a short struggle the Democratic government won out. This would be the spark for the Three-DecaYerk Demur...

EXT. EARTH - GOVERNMENT BUILDING

A mob of angry miners is protestingg outside a huge metallic building. The two are separated by a wall of heavily armored and armed Marines. More and more protesters show up carrying Russian Star banners. Suddenly, from every corner futuristic tanks roll in. They charge the protesters. At first, they stand firm. But as they get closer they fire warning shots over the protester's heads. Everyone turns and flees.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Angry Communist Miners staged a prootest. As their cried of injustice, more and more of the population joined the demonstration. They were gaining support. Before things got too far out of hand, the Democratic government moved in to disperse the protest...

EXT. EARTH - FIELD

Children are playing out in the couuntry in a large grassy field, the futuristic city can be seen off in the distance. Suddenly, the city explodes. Everyone stops playing and turns towards it. A wall of fire races from the explosion is all directions. The children cry in terror.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Somewhere along the line Floureen wweapons were introduced into Earth's atmosphere by the Miners...

EXT. EARTH

The entire planet is engulfed in a huge fire ball which burns intensely.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

Everyone and everything on the plannet, including the atmosphere, was destroyed! Not a living thing survived. Since the Communists withdrew a majority of their forces from Earth as a gesture of peace, the Democratic forces rushed theirs in to secure the planet. Because of this the Democrats lost almost all of their forces...

EXT. NEPTUNE - SLAUGHTER

A vase number of Communist ships atttack a small number of Democratic. The tiny group is easily destroyed without the Communists having to slow down.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

At the exact same time, all of the forces of the Communists attacked NEPTUNE. With the overwhelming numbers, they easily took control of the planet and the Floureen...

EXT. SPACE - FIGHT

A large group of Communist ships coonverges on the remains of the Democratic fleet. The Communists open fire but the other group does not return fire. The Communists stop firing and surround them.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

The opposing government quickly brooke the armistice and continued the war. Vastly outnumbered and their resources gone, the Democratic government had no choice but to surrender. The Democratic system was no more. The Communists had won. Yet, they had lost...

EXT. EARTH - GOVERNMENT BUILDING

Many people, mostly Communists, aree demonstrating outside the building which is now flying flags with the Russian Red star. Military guards are holding them back but more and more people are joining the protest.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

The remains of the Humanoids, incluuding Communists, felt that the victors were directly involved with the Three-DecaYerk Demur since what was left of their forces evacuated Earth Yerks before the incident and the coordinated attack on Neptune. Public pressure forced the government to integrate some of aspects of the Democrats to form a totally new government...

EXT. MARS AND FLEET (OPTICAL) - MEDD. SHOT

The fleet is as it was before. “22NND CENTROIDS PRESENTS” appears for a few seconds and then fades.

CODIOZIANQUY (VOICE OVER)

The two opposing forces were now onne. And yet, after all they had been through. After the lost of their home world and most of its people, they continue even to this very DecaYerk to threaten to destroy what is left of their civilization. And all just for Power! Wealth! Prosperity! And also Greed! I just don't get it.

The camera zooms in on one of the ccorvettes, the Minsk.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a short corridor deep insidde the corvette. On one wall is a large hatch with two big arrows on it (one pointing up and the other pointing down) Next to the hatch is a large red button with the symbol of a hatch on it. Several people, mostly technicians, are walking to and fro. Most notably are Nikolai Solace and Catherine Welchof. Nikolai is about 33 years old, tall, skinny, plain looking and has black hair. While Catherine is about the same age, tall, attractive and is a blonde. Both are wearing similar gray uniforms, heavy black boots and headsets with microphones. Nikolai has a small golden crown insignia on each shoulder while Catherine only has half a crown. They both somberly walk down the hall, looking straight ahead taking little notice to each other or anyone else, headed towards the hatch. They stop before it and Catherine pushes the button next to the hatch. They wait a few seconds (in silence) and the hatch slides open. They step through it and into a small elevator.

INT. MINSK - ELEVATOR

This is a small featureless room wiith a small panel next to the open hatch with several buttons on it (each has a unique symbol) After they walk inside, Nikolai and Catherine turn and face the open door, Catherine press one of the small buttons which has a symbol of a spaceship on it.

ELEVATOR (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Hanger level selected.

The hatch slides closed and the eleevator begins to move.

NIKOLAI

(WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT, ANGRY)

It's not fair, Cat! I've fought lonng and hard for this ship, and now they're going to take her away from me!

CATHERINE

(WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT, DEFENSIVE)

You don't know that.

NIKOLAI

(ANGRY)

Then why is the Admiral's shuttle oon its way up?

CATHERINE (DEFENSIVE)

He's probably coming up to make youur Commandership official.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

Then why hasn't Command Control givven even a hint of my so called promotion? No, the new Commander is on that shuttle! I just know it! I've given seven KiloYerks of my life to the Minsk and when I get my first crack at commanding her this is the thanks I get!

Nikolai pauses to reflect, he sighss.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

Well, at least I commanded her for few DecaYerks!

CATHERINE (DEFENSIVE)

You're blowing this all out of propportion. Besides, your father would never let this happen to you.

Catherine places her hand on his chheek and smiles

CATHERINE (REASSURING)

Come on, Nik. Calm down. Everythingg is going to be all right... You'll see.

Catherine looks deep into his eyes and widens her smile

CATHERINE

(REASSURING)

I'll make sure of that.

A few seconds past and Nikolai craccks a smile

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I could always count on you in beinng n my corner Cat. I always appreciated it.

The lift comes to a stop quickly annd the hatch slides open. Two Maintenance Techs dressed in gray overalls, with headsets and wearing tiny metal screw drivers on their shoulders walk in. The techs stop in their tracks and gawk at the sight of the Executive Officer holding and looking at the Commander in such a loving fashion.

ELEVATOR (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Hanger level.

After a few moments, Catherine and Nikolai notice them. She quickly begins to rub his face as if she was trying to rub something off of it.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

I think I got all of it, sir. You rreally should maintain better hygiene habits.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Er, yes. Thank you Exec.

ELEVATOR (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Please exit or select another destiination. Thank you.

Without a word both Nikolai and Cattherine quickly exit through the open hatch.

FIRST TECH (LOW, WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

Hygiene my Sepcor. Didn't I tell yoou about those two?

SECOND TECH (WITH ENGLISH ACCENT)

You say that about everyone.>

FIRST TECH (DEFENSIVE)

But this time I'm right.

SECOND TECH (ANNOYED)

Bah.

The tech selects a level.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a long hall bustling with aactivity (people) Nikolai and Catherine rush down it. She is smiling. He is not.

CATHERINE (WHISPERS, SLY)

Brings back old memories, doesn't iit?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Yeah... But hygiene?

CATHERINE (WHISPERS, APOLOGETIC)

Sorry Nik, but it was all I could tthink of.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Now everyone will think I'm some sllimly stinking officer who can't even wash his face.

CATHERINE (TEASING)

Well listen to you. A moment ago yoou were crying about your Commandership and now you're crying about how people look at you.

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

You're right. I'm sorry.

CATHERINE (UPBEAT)

Just try to lighten up. Okay?

Nikolai nods. They continue down thhe hall.

EXT. MARS AND FLEET (OPTICAL) - MEDD. SHOT

The ships continue to orbit the plaanet. A shuttle heads towards the fleet from the surface.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a long active hall. In the wall is a large hatch. Next to the hatch is a large red button with a symbol of a hatch on it. Nikolai and Catherine approach the hatch.

NIKOLAI (TIRED)

What have you found out about the sshuttle?

CATHERINE (FRUSTRATED)

Nothing. I tried all my contacts inn Command Control, but they didn't even know the Admiral was coming up. I even tried to contact the shuttle in flight but it only kept saying it was ordered to maintain Comm silence.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

By who?

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

Its passenger.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Cocky little rodent. Isn't he?

They reach the door. Catherine pressses the large button on the wall and the hatch slides open. They walk through.

EXT. MINSK UNDERNEATH (OPTICAL) - CCLOSE SHOT

Two small decks, one on top of eachh other, lowers from a large opening underneath the ship. The top deck is folded up but the bottom deck is folded down and locked into place. The shuttle slowly flies towards the decks and lands on the bottom one. The decks slowly begin to rise back into the ship.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a long, empty hall. At the far end is a large hatch with a symbol of a spaceship on it. Next to the hatch is a large red button with a symbol of a hatch on it. Standing on either side of the door are two muscular Marines (one male and one female) who are dressed in gray uniforms and have a headset on. They each have a metal symbol of laser rifles on each shoulder but the man has a three quarter metal crown while the woman has a half a crown. Additionally, they each have a laser pistol and ammo clips on their belt. A large body bag is at their feet. Nikolai and Catherine approach them. They snap to attention. The man smiles and gives a quick salute.

MALE MARINE (WITH AMERICAN ACCENT)

Lance‑Corporal Steven Today, sir. The shuttle has arrived and has been De-Commed. The bay has been cleared and secured as ordered, sir.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I never gave such an order.<

The Marine frowns.

CATHERINE (QUICKLY)

Come on, Commander. We must not keeep our guests waiting.

Catherine begins pushing Nikolai foorward. Reluctantly, he walks between the Marines and up to the hatch. She presses the button next to it and it slides open. They both walk into a large room.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

This is a huge room with two shuttlles and four Battleship Fighters on one side and refueling tanks and repair equipment on the other. In the center of the room is the Admiral’s shuttle which has “COMMAND CONTROL” and “ADMIRALTY CC-2” on it. Above is a huge mechanical arm.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What was all that Deposits about haaving the bay cleared?

CATHERINE

(BLUNT)

Would you rather tell the crew of yyour promotion/demotion or some nosy Deck Hand?

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

You think of everything.

Nikolai’s smile fades.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I hope the next Commander appreciattes you as much as I do.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

It's not over yet.

Nikolai shrugs his shoulders.

NIKOLAI (DEFEATED)

Speaking of which, let's go.>

Nikolai and Catherine walk towards the shuttle. A short ramp is lowered from the ship but the hatch is still closed. Catherine and Nikolai rushes up to the ramp. The hatch slides open. In a blink of an eye two cat‑like creatures leap through the open hatch and land gracefully towards the end of the ramp. They have the frame of a human but are covered with fur, have finger-like claws on both hands and feet, pointed ears, whiskers and fur covered breasts. Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea has blonde fur with black stripes and is wearing the same uniform as Nikolai (minus the boots) While Banorjjjp Neguqbewo has brown fur with red irregular spots and has a similar uniform but has gold symbols of computers on her shoulders. These Felinions are wearing matching head and wrists bands, Codiozianquy is carrying her boots in one paw and a large duffel bag in the other. Banorjjjp is just carrying a duffel bag. Their eyes dart back and forth surveying the situation. Catherine frowns while Nikolai's mouth drops open.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Felinions in UCF uniforms!

The Felinions frown and Catherine eelbows Nikolai gently, he manages to regain himself.

CODIOZIANQUY (BLUNT)

Permission to come aboard?

Nikolai pauses.

NIKOLAI

(BEWILDERED)

Ah, sure... I mean, Permission grannted.

Catherine salutes the Felinions, Niikolai notices this and reluctantly follows suit. The Felinions salute back.

CATHERINE (OFFICIAL)

Welcome aboard the UCF Corvette Minnsk, ma’am.

NIKOLAI (BEWILDERED)

Yes, I'm Commander Nikolai Solace.<

Nikolai indicates to Catherine.

NIKOLAI

(UNEASY)

And this is my Exec Officer, Catherrine Welchof.

BANORJJJP (SARCASTICALLY)

How nice of you two to promote yourrselves.

NIKOLAI (DEFENSIVE)

Someone had to take charge, and sinnce I was next in command I picked the two most likely candidates.

BANORJJJP (ANNOYED)

POBSODH specifically states that alll promotions of bridge staff or department heads must be approved by Co‑

CCODIOZIANQUY (INTERRUPTING, BLUNT)

I'm sure he was doing what he felt appropriate under the circumstances.

Banorjjjp pauses then nods.<

BANORJJJP (HONEST)

That is probably true... Even thouggh it was the wrong action.

CODIOZIANQUY (BLUNT)

My name is Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea..

Codiozianquy stretches her arm out to Nikolai. He hesitates for a moment, then carefully grasps her paw and weakly shakes it. Once he lets go the Felinion points to Banorjjjp.

CODIOZIANQUY (BLUNT)

And this is Banorjjjp Neguqbewo.

Nikolai and Catherine give a look oof confusion.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

Huh?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I don’t think I can pronounce thosee names.

Banorjjjp frowns but Codiozianquy ssmiles.

CODIOZIANQUY (PLEASED)

Then you can call us Codi and Ban.<

Codi lets the boots she is carryingg drop to the floor.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Those stupid things create havoc onn my paws. I don't know how Ban stands wearing them.

BAN (PROUD)

Discipline.

CODI (HOPEFUL)

Well, it's my hope that someday UCFF will design boots made for Felinions that actually fit.

BAN (BLUNT)

It will never happen.

CODI (HONEST)

The admiral sent us in his shuttle so the bodies of the Comm Officer and Commander can be returned to Mars.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

The Comm Officer is just outside buut the Commander was buried at space.

BAN (SUSPECTS)

Oh, I see.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

Marine detachment. This is the Commmander.

STEVEN TODAY (OVER HEADSET, OFFICIAL)

This is Lance‑Corporal Stevenn Today, Sir.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

Bring the body in.

STEVEN TODAY (OVER HEADSET, OFFICIAL)

Yes sir.

The hatch opens and the two Mariness march into the room carrying the body bag, they march up to the shuttle.

STEVEN TODAY (OFFICIAL)

As ordered, sir.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Take it on aboard.

STEVEN TODAY (OFFICIAL)

Yes sir.

The Marines carry the body bag up tthe ramp and into the shuttle. A few seconds later, the Marines march back down the ramp and stand before Nikolai. The Marines salute, he salutes back.

STEVEN TODAY (OFFICIAL)

Mission accomplished, sir.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Fine, return to your post.

STEVEN TODAY (OFFICIAL)

Yes sir. At once sir.

The Marines march out of the room.<

NIKOLAI (HOPEFUL)

Well, you got what you came for so I guess you can be on your way.

CODI (HONEST)

I'm afraid we can't do that.>

BAN (SMUG)

We're your replacements.

Catherine frowns, Nikolai nods.

CODI (DISAPPOINTED)

Unfortunately, Ban is correct.

CATHERINE (ANNOYED)

You can’t do that!

BAN (SMUG)

Well Command Control says we can.

CODI (APOLOGETIC)

I'm sorry we're here under such taiinted circumstances.

Nikolai doesn’t know what to say buut Catherine manages to recompose herself.

CATHERINE (CONCERNED)

What's going to happen to us?

CODI (BLUNT)

I have something that should explaiin everything.

Codi reaches down into one of her bboots and pulls out a small tape cartridge holder which has a blue band around it. She hands it to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

Direct from Command Control and thee Admiral. They are your new orders.

Nikolai cautiously takes the tape ffrom the Felinion.

CATHERINE (URGENT)

I suggest we view it at once.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

We can view it in my quarters.

Nikolai turns and walks away.

CATHERINE (DISAPPOINTED)

Codi picks up her boots. Everyone ffollows Nikolai out of the room.

EXT. MINSK AND FLEET (OPTICAL) - MEED. SHOT

The ships continue their orbit of MMars.

INT. MINSK - NIKOLAI'S QUARTERS

This is a small modest room with a bed, a chair, a desk and closest. On the desk is a small computer console. Fastened on the wall at waist height is a seat belt like strap. A hatch opens and Nikolai, Catherine and the Felinions enter the room. The hatch closes.

NIKOLAI

(BLUNT)

Please, everyone make themselves att home.

Codi and Ban sit on the bed and facce the desk, Catherine takes the chair. Nikolai walks over to the desk and examines the blue seal on the tape holder.

BAN (ANNOYED)

I can assure you it has not been taampered.

Nikolai looks at Ban.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I don't doubt that... But as you meentioned before, regulations should be followed.

Ban frowns. Satisfied everything iss in order, Nikolai breaks the blue seal and opens the tape holder. He removes a small cartridge and places the holder on the desk. He then slips the tape into the slot on the computer, the system beeps a few times and comes to life. “MESSAGE FOR EXECUTIVE OFFICER NIKOLAI SOLACE - IDENT CODE 180-5424-78798” appears on the screen of the computer. Below that is the flashing word “AUTHENTICATE” This makes Nikolai smile. He turns towards the Felinions.

NIKOLAI (ALMOST SARCASTIC)

Sorry, but as you can plainly see tthis message is for me only.

Codi stands up.

CODI (DISAPPOINTED)

Of course.

BAN (DEFENSIVE)

But the seal was blue, so it is onlly an advisory. Not an order.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I know. But we'd better play it by the book.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Oh now you decide to start followinng regulations.

CODI (STERN)

Come on, Ban. Let's go.

Ban stands up as Codi heads for thee hatch, Ban glares at Nikolai.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Sure, if you have something to hidee.

Nikolai smiles, Ban follows Codi.

CATHERINE (URGENT)

Wait!

The Felinions stop next to the hatcch, Catherine jumps to her feet. She looks at Nikolai.

CATHERINE (URGENT)

Excuse me sir, but don't you think we should let them stay.

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

Huh?

CATHERINE (HINTING)

After all. We are ALL in this togetther.

Nikolai thinks for a moment.>

NIKOLAI (AGREEING)

Yes. I think that would be a good iidea.

Catherine looks at the Felinions.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

Please take your seats.

CODI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

BAN (SARCASTICALLY)

Yes, thanks a bunch.

The Felinions turn, walk back to thhe bed and sit back down. Catherine sits back down in the chair again. Nikolai turns back towards the desk.

NIKOLAI (TO COMPUTER, STERN)

Authenticate. Executive Officer Nikkolai Solace. Ident code 180-5424-78798.

The computer system beeps a few morre times, then “AUTHENTICATED” flashes on the screen. After a few seconds, the screen clears and COMMAND CONTROL appears. Below that is “UNITED COMMUNISTIC FORCE BRANCH” After another pause, the screen clears again and fleet Admiral Joseph Mazeppa appears. He is middle aged, wearing a gray uniform with large gold Scepters on each shoulder and is seated at a much cluttered desk. Nikolai welcomes the familiar face.

JOSEPH (STERN)

Hello Nikolai. I know by this pointt your entire world has been turned upside down and you don't know what the Deposits is going on. Trust me, you're not alone. But will get to that later. First, I'd like to express my condolences over the death of Commander Trotsky and Comm Officer Nicholas. I had the pleasure to serve with them both during the war. They were fine officers. Their service to the Force will be sorely missed.

Joseph pauses and stares off into sspace, he regains himself.

JOSEPH (STERN)

But back at the business at hand. II commend you on bring back the Minsk in one piece. I know you were in quite a sticky situation there. You did an excellent job. But I’m sure you don’t want to hear me drone on and on about what you already know. You are probably more concerned with the Felinions that delivered this tape to you. There has been a new inicitive in Command Control to place as many Felinions, those few that have decided to venture off their world, into high positions in the military. I know it is popular belief that they are the scourge of the universe but we have found that simply isn’t true.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

It isn’t?

BAN (STERN)

What did you say?

Nikolai just stares at the screen iin disbelief. Ban is about to press the issue but Codi nudges her. When Ban looks to her she just shakes her head, Ban sighs.

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

Because of this the Felinions will be taking command of the Minsk though you will remain as Exec. You and your crew are to give them your full cooperation, no questions asked. Anyone who gives them any grief will have to answer to me! After all, if it wasn’t for them none of use would be here.

Ban smiles.

BAN (SMUG)

Hear that humanoids?

Catherine holds her tongue and Nikoolai shakes his head in disbelief. Codi looks to Ban.

CODI (STERN)

Quiet Ban! I’m trying to listen.

Ban smiles smugly.

JOSEPH (EXPLAIN)

As far as your mission, you are breeak orbit and make your way to Listening Post Z37 located in the Melbari Asteroid cluster, the coordinates are located within this tape. Once there contact the commander there by the name of Pierre Bursa. He has vital information that is so crucial it can’t be transmitted by signaler, it can only be obtained in person. He will give you more detains once you arrive. You must follow his orders to the letter, no questions asked. I can not stress the importance of this mission. Not only obtaining the information but that the Felinions must succeed in being the heroes in this one. With this Felinion led success hopefully more will realize that they have a lot to offer, we could learn a lot from them.

BAN (ANNOYED)

We can handle ourselves! We don’t nneed any help!

Codi glares at Ban.

CODI (STERN)

I’m warning you for the last time! Be quiet! That is an order!

Ban folds her arms and sulks.

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

Well, that about does it. Carry outt your orders and make us proud!

The screen goes dark. Nikolai and CCatherine stare at the blank screen.

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

I guess that makes it official, COMMMANDER.

CODI (BLUNT)

I’m afraid so. Ban will take the pllace of the Comm Officer.

Catherine looks to the Felinions.

CATHERINE (CONCERNED)

So if Nikolai is going to be Exec wwhere does that leave me?

CODI (BLUNT)

Your Gator has orders to return to Mars. I checked your record, your prior position was that of a Gator. You will take his place.

Catherine sighs and frowns. Codi loooks at Nikolai

CODI (STERN)

What is the status of the repairs, Exec?

NIKOLAI (PROUD)

All system are on-line and fully fuunctional.

CODI (PLEASED)

Excellent. Get clearance from Commaand Control to break formation.

Codi looks at Catherine.

CODI (STERN)

Then set a course for Melbari Asterroid cluster at Ultra-Light. In the meantime, Ban and I will get settled into our quarters. After we're underway I'd like to have a tour of the ship.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I’ll extract the data from the tapee so we know where Z37 is, we can correct our course in flight.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I'll met you in your quarters in, ooh let's say, a Yerk.

CODI (STERN)

No, I'll meet you on the bridge in 20 MiniYerks.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Are you sure you'll be able to findd the bridge?

BAN (ANNOYED)

We HAVE been on a Corvette before, Exec!

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I'm sure you have, COMM OFFICER.

BAN (FLUSTERED)

Well, the next time I see you two yyou'd better be in appropriate uniforms... Or I'll report you to Command Control!

CODI (ANNOYED)

That will be all.

Codi walks over to the hatch, Ban ffollows. She opens the hatch with the large red button, both Felinions exit the room. The hatch closes. Nikolai quickly goes back to the screen.

NIKOLAI (URGENT)

Security verification Nikolai Solacce, EF-C01.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

What are you doing?

Nikolai does not answer but just loooks to the screen.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Voice identified and verified. Secuurity verification valid. Processing.

The screen changes to a more subdueed Joseph.

JOSEPH

(BLUNT)

If you are accessing this then you must be Nikolai, you are the only one authorize this. If you are not Nikolai then I’m screwed.

Joseph hesitates to collect himselff.

JOSEPH (BLUNT)

Now for my real feelings, not thosee to make Command Control happy. As far as I’m concerned you have earned the right to officially take command of the Minsk... But those rodents in Command Control think otherwise. They felt that since the Legion Cruiser that attacked you escaped inflicting a moral blow against the Force. In fact, at one point, those idiots wanted to have you demoted. Fortunately, your father and I managed to convince them otherwise. Still, the best we could do was to have you keep your current rank of Exec. I’m sorry. But that is probably trivial by comparison by having to be degraded by being commanded by a bunch of filthy Felinions. After all they are dumb, useless, eat nothing but rats and live off the kindness of others. I know they are thieves too but I never knew they were job stealers, I thought they were too lazy for that. Well at least if they are going to make a Felinion Command a UCF ship at least the Minsk is small enough so they won't inflict too much damage.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

But why our ship?

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

Your mission, your real mission is as I stated in the tape but there is a twist. There is a little surprise waiting for you, a surprised that will embarrass the discredit your Felinion leaders. When we are done with them Command Control will send them scooting home with their tail between their legs. I won’t go into detail but it is crucial that you follow the orders given by Z37. No matter what they are. If you do that everything will fall into place.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

Glad someone is looking out for us..

JOSEPH (STERN)

That doesn’t mean you are just goinng to sit there and take it easy, far from it. Your father and I have gone out on a limb for you on this one to make sure your name is cleared and you are placed as commander once more. We have to make sure that the Felinions are out of our hair once and for all. So I want you to nose around, find any dirt you can on them. Don’t make it obvious or you will tip your hand, make it discreet as possible.

Joseph pauses to think things over..

JOSEPH

(BLUNT)

Well, that's about it. Make us prouud Nikolai.

The screen goes blank once more. Caatherine opens her mouth but she is cut off.

NIKOLAI (URGENT)

I want you to get me everything on them. Personal records. Health charts. Rumors. Everything and anything! I'm not going to give this ship to a Felinion, no matter what Command Control says.

Catherine smiles. She goes over to Nikolai and wraps her arms around him, she hugs him.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

That is the Nik I know and love. A fighter.

Catherine kisses him on the cheek aand let’s go and looks at him, she gives him a wink. Then she turns and walks over to the hatch.

NIKOLAI (ANXIOUS)

Step on it, you only got twenty MinniYerks.

Catherine opens the hatch and rushees out.

EXT. MINSK AND FLEET (OPTICAL) - MEED. SHOT

The ship continues with the rest off the ships. The Admiral's shuttle speeds away from the ship and heads for Mars.

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

This is a room similar to Nikolai'ss quarters. Codi's boots are on the floor next to the bed. Codi is sitting on the bed, her duffel bag is next to her. She opens the bag and digs around inside of it, she pulls out a small recording device. She holds the device up to her face and pushes a button on it.

CODI (INTO RECORDER, BLUNT)

Log entry 22.57.02.23.05.07.39.99, Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea logging. I have decided to keep a log of my mission in case my fate is that of Comm Officer Nicholas and Commander Trotsky.

EXT. MINSK AND THE FLEET (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

The Minsk turns and slowly arcs awaay from the other ships, headed for deep space. “STEVEN TODAY PRODUCTION” appears for a few seconds and then fades away.

MINSK CONTROL (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

All stations prepare for Ultra-Lighht acceleration. Acceleration will commence in 15 MiniYerks. All stations prepare.

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

Codi is standing in front of the oppen closet. She is holding her boots in one hand and the recorder in the other, the duffel bag is not in sight.

CODI

(INTO RECORDER, BLUNT)

Exec Officer Nikolai Solace appearss to be a fine and able officer.

Codi tosses the boots into the closset.

CODI (INTO RECORDER)

Though, I sense he dislikes me deepply.

Codi pauses to sigh.

CODI (INTO RECORDER, FRUSTRATED)

Sometimes my Felinion senses are a burden.

Codi collects herself.

CODI (INTO RECORDER)

I have to concentrate on not prejuddging him... Yet.

Codi slides the closet door shut annd it locks into place.

MINSK CONTROL (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

43 MicroYerks till Ultra-Light acceeleration. 43 MicroYerks till Ultra-Light Acceleration. All stations have knowledge and all systems are go.

Codi walks over to the large seat bbelt on the wall.

CODI (INTO RECORDER)

I just hope the rest of the crew giives Ban and I more acceptance so we can do what we came to do.

Codi presses herself up against thee wall and begins to fasten the wide seat belt around.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - MEDD. SHOT

The ship slowly continues to move aaway from Mars. Two huge engines on the back of the ship come to life. The Minsk speeds away and in a few seconds disappears into oblivion. “KALATIR!” appears on the screen where the ship once was.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

This is a huge room with several diifferent types of computer systems. In the center of the room and elevated is the Command Station: It is a circular section that has a seat and many computer consoles. Circling the Command Station are several other stations: Exec, Comm, Gator, Engineer and Sensor. Each station has a single display screen which is unique in its own way. On the top of each of the monitors is a large light, it is currently burning green. Nikolai is seated at the Command Station and is monitoring one of his screens, he is wearing the symbol of an Exec Officer on his shoulders. Catherine is seated at the Gator station as is too monitoring her controls, she is wearing gold symbols of a compass on her shoulders. Ivan Alexander, a geeky looking man who is wearing a standard Minsk uniform and has golden symbols of eyes and ears, is seated at the Sensor Station and paying little attention to his instruments. Lena Pagoda, a fairly attractive woman with red hair and wearing a standard uniform which has gold wrench symbols on it, is seated at the Engineer Station. A fill in crew member is seated at the Comm Station and intensely monitoring the station's screen. The Exec station is vacant. Everyone in the room is wearing a standard headset with microphone. In the back of the room is a hatch with a familiar button next to it. Nikolai turns from the screen and looks down to Catherine.

NIKOLAI (AUTHORITATIVE)

Gator. What is our present load?

Catherine double checks her screen..

CATHERINE (OFFICIAL)

One point two the speed of light, ssir.

NIKOLAI (AUTHORITATIVE)

And how long until we reach Melbarii Asteroid cluster?

Catherine double checks her screen again.

CATHERINE (OFFICIAL)

One point seven DecaYerks, sir.

Nikolai looks down at one of his sccreens.

INT. BRIDGE - COMPUTER SCREEN

EARTH RESTORATION STATUS

ATMOSPHERE MATRIX:

RADIUMATE 67%

CARBIDE 07%

ZIGAINIUM 06%

OXYGEN 01%

OTHER 19%

ATMOSPHERE RESTORATION:

ACTIVE 91%

INACTIVE 06%

DOWN 03%

ATMOSPHERE RESTORATION COMPLETION ((ESTIMATE):

97 KILOYERKS, 7 MAXIYERKS, 9 CENTAYYERKS, 1 DECAYERK, 2 YERKS, 3 MINIYERKS, 87 MICROYERKS

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Activate computer core link.>

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Are you sure?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Initiator?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Nikolai Solace, EF-C01.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Voice identified and verified. Inittiator valid. Processing.

The screen goes blank and a silhoueette of Russia appears. At the top of the screen is “MINSK COMPUTER CORE LINK EXEC STATION”, below that and flashing is “DATA HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED TO YOUR DATABASE” The rest of the screen has a list of options, two of which are “VIEW NEW DATABASE FILES” and “TERMINATE COMPUTER CORE LINK”

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. View new database files..

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Processing.>

The screen goes blank and “VIEW NEWW DATABASE FILES:” appears on the top of the screen. “FELINION.DATA”, “ZQIUVXBIEA.DATA”, “CATHERINE.FELINION.MESSAGE.1” and “EXIT DATABASE” appear below.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Zqiuvxbiea dot data.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Processing.>

The screen goes blank and a 3-D commputer image of Codi appears, it continuously to rotate horizontally 360 degrees. In one corner of the screen is a larger image of Codi's head which also rotates. The rest of the screen is filled with the following data:

NAME: CODIOZIANQUY MARRATI ZQIUVXBIEA

SPECIES: FELINION

SEX: FEMALE>

AGE 41 KY., 9 MY.,, 91 CY., 47 DY.

RANK: COMMANDER LIEUTEENANT

IDENT CODE: 337-2149-64238<

LAST POST: COMMANDER, PURRRATE I (FELINION FRIGATE)

HISTORY: UCF (4 KILOYERKS) - REST OF DATA IS RESTRICTED TO A LEVEL 14 INITIATOR

At the bottom of the screen the worrd “PAUSING” is flashing.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Continue.

The screen goes blank and “VIEW NEWW DATABASE FILES:” appears on the screen again. “FELINION.DATA”, “ZQIUVXBIEA.DATA”, “CATHERINE.FELINION.MESSAGE.1” and “EXIT DATABASE” appear again.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Felinion dot data.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Processing.>

The screen goes blank and a similarr screen to that of the rotating Codi appears (except this is of an ordinary Felinion) Another difference is the images are half male and half female. Next to the images are the following data:

SPECIES: FELINIOON

ORIGIN: Feliniia (FELINION)

TETHYS MAJOR (HUMAN)

10TH PLANET OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM

HISTORY: CONTACT MADE IN 22.36.09.01.05

KNOWN ENEMIES: PREVARICATES (HUMANN)

VICE SIRIUS (FELINION)

TETHYS MINOR (HUMAN)

11TH PLANET OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM

LIFE SPAN: 260 KILOYYERKS

HEIGHT: 6.1 MINNIMILLIS

WEIGHT: 200 PRODDS

APTITUDE: 219

AGILITY: 2.4 TIMMES OF HUMANS

SPEED: 3.8 TTIMES OF HUMANS

STRENGTH: .9 TIMES OFF HUMANS

SMELL: UNKNOWWN

SIGHT: UNKNOOWN

HEAR: 6.3 TTIMES OF HUMANS

TOUCH: UNKNOWNN

TASTE: 1.2 TTIMES OF HUMANS

INTERACTION: 9 TIMES OF HUMMANS

SOCIAL STATUS: .2

At the bottom of the screen is “PAUUSING” which is flashing.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Continue.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Catherine dot Felinion ddot message dot one.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Processing.>

The screen goes blank and the folloowing message appears:

DEAR NIK:

AFTER VIEWING THE FILES I SENT YOU I HAVE COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THERE ARE TOO MANY UNKNOWNS. WE NEED TO FIND MORE ON THESE FELINIONS, MORE DIRT ABOUT THEM. JUST LIKE THE ADMIRAL WANTED. I KNOW THE CREW IS BEHIND YOU ALL THE WAY. THEY'LL GIVE THE FELINIONS ENOUGH FLAK TO MAKE THEM WISH THEY NEVER CAME ABOARD. WE CAN USE THIS AS A SMOKE SCREEN TO DO OUR DIRTY WORK. LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK.

LOVE

CAT

P.S. BEFORE WE WENT INTO ULTRA-LIGHHT I CONTACTED MY FRIEND AGAIN IN COMMAND CONTROL TO SEE WHY CODI'S DATABASE WAS RESTRICTED. BUT HE COULDN'T FIND OUT WHY (PROBABLY DUE TO LACK OF TIME) BUT THAT IS NOT THE HALF OF IT. MY FRIEND ALSO DISCOVERED THAT NOT ONLY DID THE ADMIRAL AND YOUR FATHER DEFENDED YOU AGAINST COMMAND CONTROL, BUT SO DID CODI. WILD HUH? WORD HAS IT THAT IT WAS HER INFLUENCE THAT TIPPED THE SCALES IN YOUR FAVOR. APPARENTLY SHE HAS MORE PULL THAN YOUR FATHER (WHICH IS ANOTHER REASON WE SHOULD NOT ATTACK HER HEAD ON) WELL, THAT ABOUT DOES IT.

P.P.S BECAUSE OF THE ABOVE STATEMENNT I HIGHLY SUGGEST TO DESTROY THIS MESSAGE AND THE FILES I SENT YOU AFTER VIEWING. IT WOULD MAKE FOR VERY INCRIMINATING EVIDENCE.

At the bottom of the screen is “PAUUSING” which is flashing.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Continue.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Exit database.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Are you sure?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Do you want to save viewed data?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No. Security erase.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Are your sure?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Processing.

“FELINION.DATA BEING SECURITY ERASEED” appears on the screen for several moments. Then “ZQIUVXBIEA.DATA BEING SECURITY ERASED” appears for a few seconds. Then “CATHERINE.FELINION.MESSAGE.1 BEING SECURITY ERASED” appears. The screen goes blank and the silhouette of Russia appears. At the top of the screen is “MINSK COMPUTER CORE LINK EXEC STATION” appears. The rest of the screen has a list of options, one of which is “TERMINATE COMPUTER CORE LINK”

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Selection. Terminate computer core link.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Are you sure?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Processing.

The screen goes blank and the “EARTTH RESTORATION” screen comes back on.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

It is as it was before. Except, Nikkolai is staring at the screen deep in thought. After a few moments he turns and looks down at Catherine.

NIKOLAI (AUTHORITATIVE)

I just got your message, Gator... II agree with your report completely. Nice WORK.

Catherine does not look up from herr work, but gives a slight smile.

CATHERINE (OFFICIAL)

Thank you, sir.

Nikolai looks back at his screen annd ponders.

EXT. DEMOCRATIC REVENGE WITHIN ASTEEROIDS (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

This is the same size as the Minsk,, but has two fighter bays but not as many guns. “DEMOCRATIC LEGION” is marked on the side of the ship. Below is “UNITED COMMUNISTIC FORCE” which is scratched out and barely readable. Below that is a large silhouette of England which has a giant skull and cross bones in it. Also scratched out are the words “LIVERPOOL” which have been replaced with “DEMOCRATIC REVENGE” The ship is drifting along with a large group of asteroids.

INT. DEMOCRATIC REVENGE - COMMANDERR'S QUARTERS

This is a room equal in size to Nikkolai's but it is lavishly decorated with stolen items. Bill Sierras is lying on the bed. Bill is short, has black hair, a short beard and is very muscular. Bill is wearing a black leather uniform with large red skull and cross bones on the chest, he has little metal symbols of a Commander on his shoulders. He is grasping a small remote control. There is a tape in the slot of the computer on the desk, Ted Delrayy is on the computer screen. Ted is a middle aged man, tall and skinny. Ted is wearing a uniform similar to Bill's but has Admiral symbols on it. Ted is sitting at a clean polished desk and is flanked by two Guardians (large androids with jet black armor, smoke black visors and are armed with laser rifles) Behind Ted and the Guardians is a huge red striped flag with a skull and cross bones on it. Ted stands up.

TED (STERN)

Select people, Command Control or wwhoever I am speaking to. I am Ted Delrayy, exalted leader of the Democratic Legion. I am here to clear up all the speculation on why our privateers are attacking and capturing industrial ships. It is to strengthen our already powerful fleet and bases. Because of this our demands should be taken seriously. Dead seriously! We have but one demand. That the new Communistic portion of the new government be terminated and the old Democratic system be reinstated with absolute control! It should be quiet obvious that the Communistic are unable to rule just and fair. They can't even maintain order, as the Legion has demonstrated.

There is a soft knock on the hatch..

TED (STERN)

One MaxiYerk after the Democratic ggovernment has been restored and given full and complete power, we will yield to the new government and stop our attacks.

There is another knock on the hatchh, this time it is louder. Bill pushes a button on the remote control, the image of Ted freezes. The word “Paused” appears over him. Bill turns towards the door.

BILL (FRENCH ACCENT, ANGRY)

Who is it?

CORRINE (THROUGH HATCH, WITH ENGLISH ACCENT)

It's Corrine.

Bill smiles. He presses a button onn the remote and the hatch opens. Corrine Joyce walks cautiously into the room. Corrine is a tall gorgeous brunette. She is wearing a uniform (which is two sizes too small) similar to Bill but has Exec Officer Symbols on her shoulders. The hatch closes behind her. She stops before the bed, Bill smiles at her. Corrine holds her arms horizontally across her chest.

CORRINE (ORDERLY)

Hail Commander Sierras.

BILL (SMUG)

Yes, my dear. You may speak.>

Corrine lowers her arms.

CORRINE (ORDERLY)

We just got another tip. A Floureenn ore carrier by the name of San Diego, it’s about halfway between the asteroid belt and Jupiter.

BILL (PLEASED)

Ah, the twentieth tip.

CORRINE (ORDERLY)

We've also got a report that the Unnited Communistic Force Corvette Minsk is in the same vicinity.

BILL (BLUNT)

Notify Ceres VI that we are going tto take the San Diego.

CORRINE (CONCERNED)

Do you feel it is wise with a Corveette so near?

BILL (ANNOYED)

Do you feel is wise to question my orders?

CORRINE (SUBMISSIVE)

Absolutely not.

BILL (STERN)

Good. This is the last tip of our pprearranged bargain. Our last chance for some excitement. I kind of hope the Minsk does show up. We would be evenly matched. It would be interesting...

Bill pauses to smile.

BILL (STERN)

Set an intercept course at Ultra-Liight.

CORRINE (ORDERLY)

As you order, oh Commander Sierras..

Corrine holds her arms horizontallyy across her chest. After a few moments, she bows and lowers them. She turns and heads back for the hatch. But when she reaches it does not open, she stops. She waits a few seconds and then slowly turns toward Bill. He places his remote control on the bed.

BILL (SMUG)

Use your Signaler-Set, we still havve some unfinished business.

Bill pats a spot on the bed next too him. Corrine gives a horrified look.

CORRINE (SCARED)

Not again.

BILL (SLY)

You know it brings me good luck.

CORRINE (ANNOYED)

It is a stupid superstition.>

He begins to unbutton his uniform.<

BILL (SLY)

Maybe, but it has worked nineteen oother times.

CORRINE (UPSET)

But we don't have time for this. Wee must prepare for battle.

BILL (SMUG)

That is exactly what I am doing.

CORRINE (FRANTIC)

Please, just once could we do withoout this insanity?

Corrine stares with pleading eyes iinto Bill's, he stares back for a few seconds. He frowns and picks up the remote, he press a button on it and the hatch slides open.

BILL (DISAPPOINTED)

I do this just for you.

CORRINE (RELIEVED)

Thank you.

Corrine turns toward the hatch.

BILL (STERN)

But just remember, you owe me one.<

Corrine balks for a moment, then ruushes out of the room. Bill laughs.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - CLOOSE SHOT

The ship passes by at Ultra-Light sspeed and continues through space.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

The room as it was before. The hatcch opens and Ivan turns towards it. Codi and Ban walk through it and into the room. Both Felinions are wearing headsets designed especially for their heads. The hatch closes behind them. Everyone turns towards the Felinions. Ivan is shocked at the sight. Nikolai jumps to his feet.

IVAN (SHOCKED, WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

Who in the Hades are you?

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

Commander on the bridge!

Catherine sits at attention while tthe others gawk at the Felinions.

CATHERINE (ANGRY)

Commander on the bridge!

Slowly, the rest of the crew sits aat attention. The Felinions make their way to the base of the Command station. Nikolai steps down next to them. He salutes, Codi salutes back. She then steps up onto the station. She looks around at everyone.

CODI (BLUNT)

At ease.

The crew relaxes but keeps their eyyes on Codi.

CODI (BLUNT)

Let me introduce myself. I am the nnew Commander of this ship.

Everyone's mouth drops open, Codi iignores this.

CODI (BLUNT)

My name is Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea.. And this...

Codi gestures down to Ban.

CODI (BLUNT)

Is our new Comm Officer, Banorjjjp Neguqbewo. Now I know it’s a mouth full, so to make things simple you can call us Codi and Ban. Now, who are you all?

Nikolai points over to Ivan.>

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

That is your Sensor Officer, Ivan AAlexander.

Codi stares at Ivan who continues tto gawk at her.

CODI (PLEASED)

How do you do?

Ivan says nothing.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

The COMMANDER asked you a question,, Sensor Officer!

Ivan regains himself.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

Ah... Fine.

Nikolai shakes his head and points at Lena.

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

And this is Lena Pagoda, your Enginneer Officer.

Codi looks at Lena.

CODI (PLEASED)

And how do you do?

LENA (CONFUSED, WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

It's a pleasure... I mean, fine. Maa'am.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good.

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

And you have already met your Gatorr.

Codi nods to Catherine, then looks around the room.

CODI (STERN)

As you have probably noticed, we arre Felinions. By the looks on your faces, you're probably wondering what a pair of old world democrats are doing on a new world Communistic ship. It is the hope of Command Control to put the war behind us all and stride forward into the future. I don't think you'll find me any different from anyone else. I don't have any intentions of redesigning the operations of this ship. You'll soon discover that I'm not a big fanatic on protocol. As long you do your job to the best of your ability, we will get along fine.

The smile fades from Codi.

CODI (STERN)

But let me warn you, if I find anyoone and I mean anyone, slacking off they'll find themselves in detention!

Codi glares around to everyone and then smiles again.

CODI (PLEASANT)

Well, that's my speech. Any questioons?

The only response is the clinking oof computer equipment.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good. Carry on.

Codi turns towards Ban, the rest off the crew goes back to work.

CODI (OFFICIAL)

Take your station.

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes, Codi.

Ban walks over to the Comm Station,, the crewmember sitting there gets up and walks away. Ban takes the seat at the station.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I have logged your initiators into the system, Comm Officer.

BAN (OFFICIAL)

Thank you, sir.

Ban mumbles into her headset and gooes to work. Nikolai looks up to Codi.

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

Orders ma’am?

CODI (PLEASED)

How about that tour?

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

Yes ma'am.

Nikolai turns and heads for the hattch. Codi looks down at Ban.

CODI (BLUNT)

You have the bridge, Ban.

BAN (OFFICIAL)

Yes Codi.

Nikolai stops at the hatch and waitts. Codi steps down from the Command Station and walks towards Nikolai. Ban gets up and climbs up on the station. The same crew member retakes the Comm Station.

IVAN (WHISPERS REAL SOFTLY, ANNOYED)

Felinions are going to destroy us llike they destroyed Earth.

Ban looks down at Ivan and Codi stoops in her tracks, she spins around to Ivan.

CODI (ANGRY)

I heard that!

Nikolai looks at Codi.

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

Heard what?

Ban points at Ivan. Everyone stops what they are doing.

BAN (ANGRY)

He made a crack about us!

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I didn't hear anything?

CODI (ANGRY)

Well Ban and I did!

Codi rushes over the Ivan, Nikolai follows. He stares at Ivan.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Is this true?

IVAN (FALSE SURPRISE)

Sir. I swear to you, I don't know wwhat she's goi-

BAN (INFURIATED)

Sensor Officer! Remember what officcer you are lying to!

CODI (STERN)

And that Felinions can hear what huumanoids can not!

Ivan thinks for a moment.

IVAN (SLOWLY)

Well, I may have made a little remaark.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

Did you or didn't you?

Ivan pauses again.

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

Okay, I did. But I was just statingg a fact.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

And that fact was?

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

They heard it. Let them tell you.

Nikolai opens his mouth to speak.

CODI (ANGRY)

Felinions are going to destroy us llike they destroyed Earth!

Ivan is shocked.

BAN (INFURIATED)

Liar!!! Felinions did not find the vein of Floureen on Neptune!!! Felinions did not start the Miner's Conflict!!! Felinions did not take part in the Three-DecaYerk Demur!!! Felinions did not use Floureen weapons on Earth!!! We did not destroy Earth!!!

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

Yes. But if your race hadn't introdduced the key element for Ultra-Light, Hydrogenoxide Floureen, the Miner's Conflict would have never happened.

Ban shakes her fist at Ivan, the fuur on the back of her neck stands on end.

BAN (INFURIATED)

If you're going to think that way, then Earth would not have been destroyed if Humans had never invented nuclear fusion, which is the base reaction for Floureen weapons!!!

IVAN (BALKING)

Well, ah...

BAN (SARCASTIC)

What was that?

CODI (BLUNT)

That will be enough, Ban.

Ban turns and looks down at Codi.

BAN (ANGRY)

No it won't! I'm sick and tired of it! It is the same old story on every humanoid ship! All they talk about is all the harm we have brought down on them! We never heard the good! Like how we helped track down the remaining Humanoids in the solar system! How we brought them back to Mars! How we gave them the technology to restoring Earth's atmosphere! How we gave them Light-Conversion! How we gave them the Quzii Deflector System! How we gave them the Katabrome effect! How we gave them Stteo-

CODI (STERN, INTERRUPTING)

It is nothing that we have not hearrd before so don’t let it upset you, that is an order.

The two Felinions stare coldly at eeach other for several long moments, Ban caves.

BAN (ANNOYED)

As you wish, MA'AM.

Ban turns and sits in the Command SStation chair. Nikolai and Codi look down at Ivan.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

What do you have to say for yoursellf, Sensor Officer?

Ivan thinks for a while.

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

I was only speaking my mind.>

NIKOLAI (SARCASTIC)

Well then I'll speak mine, considerr yourself on report!

IVAN (SHOCKED)

What! Why?

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

DTACO specifically states anyone sppeaking disrespectfully to a commanding officer goes on report! And no where does it state this is limited to race or sex! You can also be broken down to Deck Hand at her digression! Just like that!

Nikolai snaps his fingers.

NIKOLAI (SARCASTIC)

Now is there anything else you woulld like to get off your mind?

Ivan quickly shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Then I strongly suggest you get bacck to your duties.

Ivan goes gets back to work. Nikolaai quickly glances around the room, everyone is looking at him.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

All of you!

The rest go back to monitoring theiir stations. Nikolai looks up to Ban.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Keep a sharp eye on the Sensor Offiicer, another infraction and he is automatically broken down one rank.

Ban smiles briefly and nods. Nikolaai turns to Codi, she looks quite impressed.

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

I'm ready for our tour, Ma'am. Thatt is, if you still are interested.

CODI (IMPRESSED)

Yes. Let's go.

Codi and Nikolai walk towards the hhatch. He presses the button next to it and the hatch slides open. They walk through it and disappear. As the hatch slides shut, Ban glances over to Ivan.

CATHERINE (WHISPERS)

Way to put up the smoke screen, Nikk.

Ban glances down at Catherine and ffrowns.

INT. MINSK - ELEVATOR

Nikolai and Codi stand in silence, buttons on the panel next to the hatch flash as it descends.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

I must apologize for Ivan's behavioor.

There is no response.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

I can assure you won't have any troouble like that from the rest of the crew.

Codi doesn't even glance at Nikolaii, this unnerves him.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

I'm just glad Ban put him in his pllace.

Codi slowly looks at Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

Should she have?

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Of course. It is one thing to speakk your mind, but what he was saying was an all out attack. I will not have anyone of my crew, whether they are Officers or Deck Hands. Males or females. Humans or Felinions...

Nikolai pauses momentarily.<

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Er, no offense.

There is no response.

NIKOLAI (QUICKLY)

The point is we are a team. We needd to act like one.

There is a long uneasy pause.

NIKOLAI (UPBEAT)

I'm still pleased how Ban defended you, I admire her spunk.

Codi smiles.

CODI (PROUD)

She always has had plenty of that.<

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

You two been together long?<

CODI (PLEASED)

Over five KiloYerks.

NIKOLAI (IMPRESSED)

Oh, then you knew her on Purrrate II.

Codi's eyes narrow.

CODI (BLUNT)

Have you been spying on me Exec?

Nikolai stares at Codi, thinking. TThe hatch opens.

ELEVATOR (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Thruster Level.

NIKOLAI (BALKING)

Not spying, ma'am… Studying… I feell that a Commander and Exec work hand in hand. They need to know how the other thinks, feels and reacts. There will be instances where there will be no time for explanations. At least, that is how I feel.

Codi continues to stare.

CODI (DRY)

Yes.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Yes?

CODI (DRY)

Yes, I knew Ban from Purrrate I. Shhe was my Exec.

ELEVATOR (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Please exit or select another destiination. Thank you.

Codi slowly turns and steps off thee lift, Nikolai follows.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a long and empty corridor wwith a few Maintenance Techs. Codi and Nikolai walk down the hall, after they pass the Techs turn and gawk at Codi.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

If Ban was your Exec then why is shhe only a Comm Officer now? Was she demoted?

Codi continues to walk in silence.<

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

That is, if you don't mind me askinng ma'am.

Codi continues to walk. She cracks a smile.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, she wasn't demoted... Though, sshe has given me enough reasons to. She can't be the Exec since you are already.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

You could have demoted me.

CODI (BLUNT)

That wouldn't be fair to you. But iif that is what you wish-

NIKOLAI (INTERRUPTING, QUICKLY)

No! That's okay. Ban must be reallyy flexible to allow her rank to change just like that.

CODI (HONEST)

Flexibility has nothing to do with it. It is friendship. You see, we come from a culture that is very protective of one another. Not many Felinions leave Felinia. The few that do become very close with one another. We'll do almost any thing so we can stay together. In fact, on one duty, Ban even allowed herself to be a Deck Hand just so she could stay with me. In extreme cases it is called Kalatir.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Wow! That IS close.

CODI (BLUNT)

Close doesn't even begin to describbe it.

Codi and Nikolai continue to walk ddown the hall.

INT. MINSK - ULTRA-LIGHT THRUSTER RROOM

This is a huge room with two large Ultra-Light thrusters. The thrusters whine loudly and several control panels next to the thrusters blink wildly. There are ladders that lead up from the floor to the top of each thruster. Another ladder on the wall leads up to several catwalks to cooling equipment above the thrusters. An engineer wearing a headset and a uniform similar to Lena is casually browsing over one of the panels. There is a hatch on the far wall with an activation button next to it. The door opens, Nikolai and Codi enter the room. The hatch seals again. They walk into the center of the room. The engineer notices this and tries to look busy, but keeps glancing over at Codi.

CODI (SCREAMS OVER THE NOISE)

Is this where Commander Trotsky wass found?

Nikolai nods and points at the flooor next to the ladder of the closest thruster. Codi walks over to the indicated spot, Nikolai follows. He points up to the top of the thruster.

NIKOLAI (SCREAMS OVER THE NOISE)

Apparently he was up there when we took a major hit and was knocked off.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

Not a good place for a commander duuring a battle!

NIKOLAI (STILL SCREAMING)

Tell me about it! The Lead Medic Teech said his neck was broken.

Codi grabs a hold of the ladder.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

Wait here!

NIKOLAI (STILL SCREAMING, CONFUSED)

Wait here?

Codi ignores him and starts up the ladder. Nikolai stands and watches her head towards the top of the thruster. She continues to climb until she is near the top. She removes one paw and touches it to her face. She pauses, then puts the paw to her noise and sniffs. The Engineer notices this. She pauses again and then looks down at Nikolai.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

Were any substance scans taken?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What?

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

Were any substance scans taken?

Nikolai nods.

NIKOLAI (STILL SCREAMING)

But both his hands and boots came uup negative!

Codi starts down the ladder.>

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

I want you to transfer a copy of thhe Medic Log to my quarters because that is where I'll be!

NIKOLAI (STILL SCREAMING, CONFUSED)

What about the tour?

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

It is concluded!

Codi steps off the ladder and onto the floor, she looks at Nikolai.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

Thanks for taking the time!<

Codi turns and heads for the hatch.. Nikolai shrugs his shoulders and follows.

BAN (OVER HEADSET)

Bridge to Commander Codi. Do you reead?

Codi stops and so does Nikolai.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING, INTO HEADSET)

Commander Codi to bridge! I read yoou!

BAN (OVER HEADSET)

We've picked up a Distress signalerr from the Floureen carrier San Diego. It specified that it is being attacked by Legion ships.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING, EXCITED, INTO HEADSET)

How many and of what type?

BAN (OVER HEADSET)

Before we could get any details thee signal was jammed.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING, EXCITED, INTO HEADSET)

Have you located her?

BAN (OVER HEADSET)

Yes. She's 197,379,898 Millis away.. But we can't identify the craft attacking or its numbers from this distance.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING, EXCITED, INTO HEADSET)

How long will it take us to reach hher?

BAN (OVER HEADSET)

About 17 MiniYerks.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING, EXCITED, INTO HEADSET)

Set course for her! Have all statioons go to yellow status and prepare all Minskians for launch! We're on our way up! Commander Codi out!

BAN (OVER HEADSET)

Copy that. Bridge out.

Codi dashes for the hatch, Nikolai is close behind.

CODI (STILL SCREAMING)

Looks like the Minsk gets to have aa re-match with the Legion.

As they run, Nikolai gives Codi an odd look.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - CLOOSE SHOT

The ship flies through space at Ulttra-Light speed.

MINSKIAN CONTROL (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Alert! Alert! All stations to yelloow status. All stations to yellow status. All defensive grids on-line. All defensive grids on-line. Alert! Alert!

An alarm sounds.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is busy working at their sstations. The large lights on each station is burning yellow and flashes slowly. A Marine is standing near the hatch, he has a holster with a side arm. The hatch opens, Codi and Nikolai rush into the room. Ban turns towards them and stands up from the Command Station.

CODI (EXCITED)

Status?

BAN (BLUNT)

We're at complete yellow status. Miinskian one and two are lowered and ready to launch.

Nikolai takes the seat at the Exec Station while Codi climbs up to the Command Station. Ban steps down and retakes the Comm Station. The three check their screens. Nikolai looks up to Codi.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

You think it is wise to launch all of the Battleships? After all, this could be another ambush.

Codi sits down at her seat.<

CODI (BLUNT)

True. But our primary job is not too protect the Minsk but protecting our ships from Legion scum. Besides, we're pretty safe in Ultra-Light. Not much can touch us.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

That's what Commander Trotsky thougght.

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

Yeah. It’s only a DDF Ore carrier. Why risk it?

CODI (ANNOYED)

There are no more DDF ships. We're all in the UCF. Remember?

IVAN (BLUNT)

What I meant it is a sole carrier, not part of a convoy. Hardly worth the effort.

CODI (STERN)

I would think the crew on that shipp would disagree.

Ivan shrugs his shoulder, Nikolai llooks over to Codi.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

We are a good ways away and the Leggion is all over the San Diego, they are just one Ultra-Light jump from towing her away. We will show up too late.

CODI (STERN)

I would rather try and fail rather then wonder for the rest of my life if we could have saved them. You may be willing to give up but I’m not!

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

I’m with you all the way, ma’am. Noo matter what you do.

Codi smiles and looks down at Ban.<

CODI (URGENT)

Link me up with all Minskians, Ban..

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes Codi.

Ban mumbles into her headset. Codi looks at one of her screens. It clears and splits into four sections, each section has a pilot seated in his cockpit. Minskian One and Two are males. Minskian Three and Four are females. Each pilot is surprised at the sight of the Felinion.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, REASSURING)

I'm Commander Codi. Your prime objeective is to get the attacking ships off of the floureen carrier and then guard the ship until we arrive. Good luck and prepare to launch.

The pilots salute her and then the screen goes blank.

EXT. UNDERNEATH MINSK (OPTICAL) - CCLOSE SHOT

The ship continues at Ultra-Light. The twin decks below are lowered and have a Battleship one each. The fighters are similar to F-14's except that the wings fold forward instead of back and they are one seaters.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

This is a small fighter cockpit witth a huge windshield. A pilot sits in the ship and checks his controls. The pilot is wearing a helmet with a smoke black visor which covers most of his face.

MINSKIAN CONTROL (COMPUTERIZED VOICE, OVER HELMET)

Minskian Control to Minskians One aand Two. You have clearance. Prepare pre-launch sequence. I am starting your thrusters.

EXT. LAUNCH DECKS UNDER MINSK (OPTIICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The left thruster on both Battleshiips lights up and fires. Then the right on does the same.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot continues to monitor his controls.

MINSKIAN CONTROL (COMPUTERIZED VOICE, OVER HELMET)

All thrusters are started and levelled. I am setting Quzii Deflectors to full rear. Switching to secondary launch systems. You now have final clearance. Stand by for release in six MicroYerks.

EXT. UNDERNEATH MINSK (OPTICAL) - CCLOSE SHOT

The Minsk continues at Ultra-Light and speeds through space. The deck of the bottom fighter folds down and the ships drifts free of the Minsk. Once it is clear, the top deck unfolds and the other fighter drifts free of the ship. The Minsk leaves the two Battleships behind.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot flies the ship and the reeflection of the Minsk pulling away can be seen in his visor.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

This is Minskian One to Minskian Twwo. Are you with me?

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

I'm right below you and all primed for conversion.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Me too. Let's not keep the Legion wwaiting. Flip your Quziis to triple layer.

The pilot flips a switch.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

Done.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Engage Light-Converters on my mark.. Five. Four. Three. Two. One. Mark!

The pilot flips a switch and the coockpit begins to turn into a bright white light. The Minsk grows large in the pilot's visor.

EXT. UNDERNEATH MINSK (OPTICAL) - CCLOSE SHOT

The ship continues through space att Ultra-Light. Minskian Three and Four sit on the launch decks. Two bright beams of light streak pass.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is busy at their stations.. Codi looks down at her monitors, one of which has the Computer Core Link menu on it. Two options are “REQUEST” and “CHANGE”

CODI (INTO HER HEADSET)

Selection. Request. Parameter. Rangge of all Minskians. Parameter. Speed of all Minskians. Output. Audio.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Parameter valid. PParameter valid. Output valid. Processing. Minskian One and Minskian Two are 3,480,106 Millis away. Minskian Three and Minskian Four are a Milli away. Minskian One and Minskian Two are traveling 1.9 the speed of light. Minskian Three and Minskian Four are traveling 3,764 Millis per Yerk.

Codi thinks a moment.

CODI

(INTO HEADSET)

Selection. Change. Parameter. Statiion status. Input. Red. Output. Audio.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Parameter valid. IInput Valid. Output valid. Are you sure you want to change station status from yellow to red?

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Yes.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE).

Processing.

MINSKIAN CONTROL (OVER LOUD SPEAKERS)

Alert! Alert! All stations to red sstatus. All stations to red status. All offensive stations on-line. All offensive stations on-line. Alert! Alert!

A different siren sounds. The largee light on everyone's station turns from yellow to red and starts flashing quickly.

EXT. MINSKIAN THREE AND MINSKIAN FOOUR IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The ships speed through space behinnd the Minsk.

INT. MINSKIAN FOUR - COCKPIT>

The pilot flies the ship.

MINSKIAN THREE (OVER HELMET, WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

Engage Light-Converters on my word.. Five. Four. Three. Two. One. Go!

The pilot flips a switch and the coockpit begins to turn into bright white light. The Minsk grows larger in the pilot’s visor. The light suddenly changes to blue and a buzzer sounds.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE, OVER HELMET)

Warning! Warning! Load regulator Allpha-Seven is malfunctioning! Load regulator Alpha-Seven is malfunctioning. Attempting to terminate Light-Conversion. Attempting to terminate Light-Conversion.

The light around the pilot turns reed. The pilot screams.

EXT. MINSKIAN THREE AND FOUR IN SPAACE (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

Minskian Three turns into a white sstreak of light and races away. Minskian Four turns into a bright ball of red light which explodes.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

A new Marine stands next to the othher one. This one has a laser rifle slung over his shoulder. Ivan quickly looks up to Codi.

IVAN (EXCITED)

I just lost Minskian Four!

Codi looks down to Ivan.

CODI

(ANNOYED) Specifics, Sensor Officer.

Ivan looks back at his screen.

IVAN (EXCITED)

It was Light-Converting when all off a sudden it disintegrated.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Check the Conversion log and see iff you can't find out what happened.

Codi looks down to Ban.

CODI (STERN)

Ban, contact Minskian Leader and teell him there is going to be only the three of them.

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes Codi.

Ban begins to mumble into her headsset.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

There is only blinding white light here that changes back into the cockpit. The pilot is in his seat and looking over his controls. The stars through the windshield slow from super fast to slow.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE, OVER HELMET)

DeLight-Conversion completed. Digittal template matches all organic and non-organic masses. All systems functioning.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

You with me?

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

You bet.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Let's check what we have.

The pilot checks his instruments. <

MINSKIAN ONE

(INTO HELMET)

I've got 9 Assaulters and they're aattacking the carrier. Though, I can't be sure since there is a lot of jamming.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

Well, we don't get paid for sittingg around and doing nothing.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Right. Accelerate to full load.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

Accelerating.

The pilot moves a lever.

BAN (OVER HELMET, SOME STATIC)

This is the Minsk to Minskian Leadeer. Do you read?

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

This is Minskian Leader to Minsk. II read you.

BAN (OVER HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Minskian Leader, I regret to informm you that Minskian four was destroyed while Light-Converting. It's only going to be the three of you.

The pilot stares at his controls foor a moment.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Understood. Thanks for letting us kknow. We're picking up 9 Assaulters attacking the carrier. But we can't be sure. There is heavy jamming. We're going in for a closer look.

BAN (OVER HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Good luck. Keep us up to date. Minssk out.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Minskian Leader out.

The pilot double checks his instrumments.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HEADSET)

Minskian Two. Unfold battle wings.<

MINSKIAN TWO

(OVER HEADSET)

Unfolding.

EXT. MINSKIAN ONE AND MINSKIAN TWO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The ships fly together, one above tthe other. The wing that runs the length of the ship folds out. There is a laser cannon on the end of each wing.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot is monitoring his equipmeent.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

Unfolded.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HEADSET)

Engage your Turbo Inflator.<

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

Engaging.

EXT. MINSKIAN ONE AND MINSKIAN TWO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The ships accelerate forward. The SSan Diego is ahead and far off in the distance.

EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

A streak of bright light streaks byy and turns into Minskian Three. The ship continues forward towards the San Diego.

INT. MINSKIAN THREE - COCKPIT

The pilot looks quickly around to mmake sure she and her ship is in one piece.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET)

Are you with me?

The pilot waits for a response.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET, CONFUSED)

Minskian Four. Can you hear me?

The pilot pauses again. Then, beginns to check her instruments.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET, CONCERNED)

Minskian Four. I'm not picking you up. Where are you?

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, HEAVY STATIC)

Give it up Minskian Three. Four is gone and not coming back.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET, SHOCKED)

Minskian Leader? What do you mean ggone?

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, HEAVY STATIC)

I can't explain now, I've got my haands full.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET, CONFUSED)

Where are you?

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, HEAVY STATIC)

26 Millis ahead of you, approachingg the San Diego.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET)

Sit tight. I'll kick in my Turbo Innflator and be with you in a flash.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, HEAVY STATIC)

Negative. There is heavy jamming. WWe need you to hold your position out of the jam field so you can relay our scans back to the Minsk. We don't want her flying in here blind. Besides, you're short a wing man.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET, DISAPPOINTED)

So I have to sit here while you havve all the fun.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, HEAVY STATIC)

That's right. Switch your signaler over to relay.

The pilot flips one of her switchess.

MINSKIAN THREE (INTO HELMET, DISAPPOINTED)

Switched.

EXT. MINSKIAN ONE AND MINSKIAN TWO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The ships continue towards the San Diego which is being attacked by small fighters.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot monitors his scanners andd he flies the ship.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Scans indicate that the San Diego hhas sustained heavy damage. Their Ultra-Light Thrusters are destroyed but their cooling systems are intact.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, SOME STATIC)

That is good news, if their cargo ooverheats it will explode.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

And take us with it.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, SOME STATIC)

We'd better get the Legion off her back before they are given a chance.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Check. Switch Quziis to Double Layeer.

The pilot flips a switch over his hhead.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Switched.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Switch jammers to full. Two can plaay at this game.

The pilot turns a knob on a panel iin front of him.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Switched.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Disengage Turbo Inflator.

The pilot pulls back a small leveleer on the side.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Disengaged.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Switch all cannons on-line.<

The pilot flips a row of switches.<

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Switched.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Hang on. Here we go!

EXT. MINSKIAN/ASSAULTER BATTLE IN SSPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The Assaulters continue to attack tthe San Diego. The Assaulters are smaller than the Battleships, don't have any wings or tails and only have one large laser mounted into the nose. The San Diego is a huge ship (Destroyer Class) that is heavily armored and has few guns. The Minskians dive towards the Assaulters, firing. One of the Assaulters is hit in the engines and explodes. The Assaulters break off their attack on the carrier and split off in all different directs. As they turn towards the Minskians, an Assaulter is hit in the mid-section and explodes. The Minskians and Assaulters head right at each other, firing all the way. As the ships pass an Assaulter is hit in the cockpit (which explodes), the remains of the ship spins wildly away from the battle. The Minskians bank and pursue the Assaulters.

INT. LEAD ASSAULTER - COCKPIT

This is a small cockpit which has mmany controls, panels and systems. A Legion Guardian is flying the ship without moving (a large cable is connected to his helmet and runs to a console next to his head)

GUARDIAN LEADER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

This is Assault Leader to all shipss. Execute attack program one-three-seven-point-four.

EXT. MINSKIAN/ASSAULTER BATTLE IN SSPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The Minskians are chasing the Assauulters, firing. Four of the Assaulters bank off and head in different directions. The Minskians stick with the ships that remain. An Assaulter is hit in the thruster and explodes. Both Minskians concentrate of the remaining fighter.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

A computer generated cross hairs apppear on the pilot's visor, readouts (like distance, speed and trajectory) appear next to the cross hairs. The cross hairs flashes and the word FIRE appears over the cross hairs. The pilot pushes a button on his control stick.

EXT. MINSKIAN/ASSAULTER BATTLE IN SSPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

Lasers fire from Minskian One and hhit the Assaulter, destroying it.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot clinches his free fist annd give a victory cry.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, EXCITED, SOME STATIC)

Nice shot!

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Thanks.

The pilot checks his equipment.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Where are the rest of them?<

Lasers whiz by and an alarm sounds..

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Never mind.

MINSKIAN TWO

(OVER HELMET, EXCITED, SOME STATIC)

They're on me tight!

The ship shakes slightly.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Me too. This is going to be rough.<

EXT. MINSKIAN/ASSAULTER BATTLE IN SSPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The Assaulters chase the Minskians,, firing. The Minskians bank and dive but the Assaulters stay right with them.

INT. MINSKIAN TWO - COCKPIT<

The pilot is frantically twisting aand turning his stick.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, EXCITED)

I can't shake them!

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Me either. Turn to four-point-four--point-six-point-zero.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, EXCITED)

And?

MINSKIIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Follow me.

EXT. MINSKIAN/ASSAULTER BATTLE IN SSPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The Minskians bank right and speed away, the Assaulters are right behind them. They head for the San Diego.

INT. MINSKIAN TWO - COCKPIT<

The pilot desperately works his conntrols. A new alarm sounds.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, EXCITED)

They're locked onto me!

The pilot throws his stick to one sside.

EXT. MINSKIAN/ASSAULTER BATTLE IN SSPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The Assaulters continue to fire on the Minskians, they are very near the carrier. Minskian Two veers to one side as a laser hits one of the two tail rudders and shatters it.

INT. MINSKIAN TWO - COCKPIT<

The cockpit shakes violently as thee pilot frantically adjusts his controls.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, EXCITED)

I'm hit!

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, CONCERNED, SOME STATIC)

What is your situation?

The shaking subsides.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, EXCITED)

I'm okay. I'm just glad Assaulters don't have Light-Explosives. But how long can we keep this up?

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, SOME STATIC)

Just stick with me.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, ANNOYED)

That is how I got into this mess.

The pilot moves his stick, the San Diego can be seen out the windshield.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET)

What are you planning?

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, SOME STATIC)

A double log roll.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET)

That just might work.

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, EXCITED, SOME STATIC)

It's got to! I'll take the top and you take the bottom.

MINSKIAN TWO

(INTO HELMET)

I read you.

EXT. SAN DIEGO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) -- MED SHOT

The Assaulters continue to chase annd fire on the Minskians. Minskian One climbs over the top of the San Diego while Minskian Two flies under the ship. Two Assaulters chase each ship. Once the ships reach the other side of the carrier Minskian One dives and Minskian Two climbs, they head for each other. The Minskians open fire and destroys a pursuing Assaulter from his wing man. The remaining two Assaulters turn away from the explosions, they head away from the Minskians and the San Diego. The Minskian pursue, firing. As the ships speed away the Democratic Revenge comes out of Ultra-Light and quickly decelerates next to the San Diego.

INT. DEMOCRATIC REVENGE - BRIDGE

This is a bridge very similar to thhe Minsk's. Bill is seated at the Command Station while Corrine is seated at the Exec Station. The rest of the crew consists of scrawny, ugly males wearing similar uniforms like Bill's. Everyone is seated and wearing thick seat belts. Everyone unfastens their belts. The Gator turns to Bill.

GATOR (PROUD)

Sir, we're right on target. The Asssaulters gave us an accurate trajectory.

Bill smiles and looks down at the SSensor Station.

BILL (PLEASED)

Status of the San Diego?

The Sensor Officer checks his screeen.

SENSOR (SMUG)

She's ripe for the taking.

BILL (STERN)

You heard him. Lock the tractor beaams onto the San Diego.

ENGINEER (BLUNT)

Yes Commander.

The Engineer Officer talks into hiss headset. Bill looks down at the Gator.

BILL (STERN)

Gator. Before those Battleships gett any ideas. Prepare us for Ultra-Light.

GATOR (BLUNT)

Yes Commander.

The Gator mumbles into his headset.. Bill looks at the Comm Officer.

BILL (STERN)

Contact the Assaulters and tell theem to break off the attack and meet us at the rendezvous point.

COMM (BLUNT)

Yes Commander.

The Comm Officer begins to speak innto his headset.

BILL (TO HIMSELF)

Maybe it IS just a superstition.

Corrine ignores Bill.

EXT. SAN DIEGO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) -- MED SHOT

The Democratic Revenge is in front of the ship, the carrier turns away from the Legion ship. Two beams of purple light, originating from the same place on the back of the Democratic Revenge, project and latch onto the San Diego. The carrier is slowly forced back towards the Legion ship.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot is lining up on one of thhe Assaulters. The cross hairs flash FIRE.

MINSKIAN ONE (TO HIMSELF)

Gotcha.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, EXCITED)

I got a Legion cruiser on my scans.. It's got a hold of the San Diego!

The pilots checks his instruments. The word FIRE disappears from his visor.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

And the Minsk isn't in sight. Breakk off the attack and follow me, full Inflators.

EXT. MINSKIAN/ASSAULTER BATTLE IN SSPACE (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The Battleships turn away from the Assaulters and head towards the San Diego. The Assaulters continue to speed away.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot looks over his equipment..

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, EXCITED)

My scans indicate that the cruiser is preparing for Ultra-Light.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET)

Lock your Light-Explosives onto thee tractor projectors.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, EXCITED)

Scan's indicate that they have 4 laayers of Quziis. Our explosives can't get through that.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET. ANNOYED)

I know that. But they will be enouggh to breach the Quziis. Then we can use our cannons to knock out the projectors.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, SARCASTIC)

I guess that is why you're Minskiann One and I'm just Minskian Two.

EXT. SAN DIEGO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) -- MED SHOT

The Democratic Revenge continues too pull the ship with its tractor beams. The Minskians approach the rear of the cruiser. The nose of each Battleship glows bright orange. A large orange ball of light fires from the nose of each fighter and heads towards the back of the Legion ship. When the balls of light are about to hit the ship the Minskians open fire with all lasers on the light balls. The Light-Explosives hits an invisible wall and explode. The lasers hit the Democratic Revenge at the source of the tractor beams. There is a small explosion and the beams disappear. The Battleships bank and fly over the San Diego. The carrier, now freed, turns away from the Legion ship.

INT. DEMOCRATIC REVENGE - BRIDGE

Everyone is busy at their stations and strapped in. The Engineer pauses, double checks his instruments and looks up to Bill with a grim face.

ENGINEER (CAREFULLY)

Commander. Um, we kind of lost the tractor projectors.

Bill gawks at the Engineer.<

BILL (EXCITED)

What! How?

SENSOR (BLUNT)

Two Battleships came from behind annd fired. They hit the projectors.

BILL (EXCITED)

Damage report!

The Engineer looks back down at hiss screen.

ENGINEER (BLUNT)

Main projectors are out. But seconddary appears to be functioning.

BILL (STERN)

Lock the secondary onto the San Dieego.

ENGINEER (BLUNT)

It will take a MiniYerk or two.

BILL (ANNOYED)

Then I suggest you get started now..

ENGINEER (QUICKLY)

Yes Commander.

BILL (ANNOYED)

And also have those Battleship blowwn to Hades.

SENSOR (EXCITED)

The Minsk has just come out of Ultrra-Light.

Bill looks down at the Sensor.

BILL (SHOCKED)

Is she close enough to hit us?

SENSOR (BLUNT)

Just. But I doubt she would risk itt, she could easily hit the San Diego at that distance.

BILL (PLEASED)

Good. And keep an eye on the Battleeships. The San Diego will still be ours.

SENSOR (BLUNT)

Yes Commander.

The Sensor studies his screen. Billl turns towards Comm.

BILL (STERN)

Comm. I want you to recall the remaa-

The Sensor tries to jump to his feeet but his seat belt stops him, he looks up to Bill.

SENSOR (EXCITED, INTERRUPTING)

Commander! A group of Battleships hhas de-lighted near us!

Bill quickly turns towards Sensor.<

BILL (EXCITED)

How many?

SENSOR (EXCITED)

So far I counted three complete S-QQs!

BILL (EXCITED)

What! How close?

The Sensor looks back at his screenn but the room rocks.

BILL (EXCITED)

Belay that!

Bill quickly looks down at the Gatoor.

BILL (EXCITED)

Take us to Ultra-Light! Now!!!

GATOR (BLUNT)

Yes Commander.

Bill looks over to Corrine.<

BILL (ANGRY)

I want to see you in my quarters affter we're stabilized in Ultra-Light, Exec Officer.

Corrine looks away from him.>

CORRINE (SCARED)

Yes Commander.

EXT. DEMOCRATIC REVENGE IN SPACE (OOPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The Minskians and San Diego are heaading away from the ship. About 75 Battleships speeds towards the cruiser, firing both laser and Light-Explosives at it. In the distance the Minsk and Minskian Three approach. The cruiser accelerates to Ultra-Light speed and disappears. As it does, all of the Light-Explosives miss her but most of the lasers hits her shields. The Battleships stop firing, bank as a group and head for the carrier.

INT. INTERCEPT LEADER - COCKPIT

This is a highly complex version off the Minskian's cockpit. The pilot is wearing a similar but more high tech suit and visor. He flies the ship and monitors his instruments.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET, WITH AMERICAN ACCENT)

This is Intercept Leader from the UUCF Battlecruiser North America to San Diego. Do you read?

DERRICK (OVER HELMET)

This is Captain Derrick Smith of thhe Stryson Mineral Company Floureen Carrier San Diego to Intercept Leader. I read you.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET)

What is your situation?

DERRICK (OVER HELMET)

Our Ultra-Light thrusters are gone and or mains are severally damaged. Some of our main ore cooling units have failed but our secondary are filling in the gaps. Ore temp is well below critical. We’re okay for now but we’ll need a tow.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET)

The North America will be here shorrtly. In the meantime we will accompany you.

DERRICK (OVER HELMET)

Thanks.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET)

Intercept Leader out.

DERRICK (OVER HELMET)

San Diego out.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET)

This is Intercept Leader from the UUCF Battlecruiser North America to Minskians. Do you read?

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET)

This is Minskian Leader to Interceppt Leader. I read you.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET)

Your identification signaler and maarkings are those of the Minsk. Your base ship is in the vicinity. You're probably low on fuel so I suggest you return to the Minsk. We'll take it from here.

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET)

I would love to. But I'll have to ccheck with my Commander first. We do have our orders.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET, ANNOYED)

Fine.

There is a long pause.

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET)

We're out of here. The San Diego iss all yours. Thanks for the assist. Minskian Leader out.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET, ANNOYED)

Intercept Leader out.

The pilot looks out his windows.

INTERCEPT LEADER (INTO HELMET, ANGRY)

Assist my Sepcor! We saved their Deeposits from that Cruiser!

EXT. SAN DIEGO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) -- MED SHOT

The ship continues to cruise on witth the Battleships. Near by are the Minsk and Minskian Three. Minskian One and Minskian Two bank away from the Carrier and head towards the Minsk. Two S-Qs of the America Battleships peel off in two different directions, the rest stays with the San Diego. The Battlecruiser North America decelerates from Ultra-Light and pulls up near the carrier and the other Battleships. Just ahead is the Minsk.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

The Marines are gone. The large staatus light at each station is green again. Everyone is at their stations. Ban looks up to Codi.

BAN (BLUNT)

The Bay Room reports that all Minskkians have been pulled up and stowed.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good. That means we ca-

BAN (INTERRUPTING)

I'm getting a message from the Nortth America. She's trying to get a hold of us.

CODI (UNSURE)

Path the Communication Line to me.<

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes Codi.

Ban looks down at her screen and muumbles a few words into her headset.

BAN (BLUNT)

You're pathed.

CODI (PLEASED)

Thanks.

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET)

This is Commander George Tarry of tthe Battlecruiser North America to the Minsk. Do you read?

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

This is Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuuvxbiea of the Corvette Minsk. I read you.

The image of a middle aged Afro-Ameerican appears on one of Codi's screens. He is in a Commander's uniform seated at a much larger and elaborate Command Station. He is surprised to see a Felinion.

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET, SURPRISED)

Oh? I thought I was speaking to thee Commander.

Codi forces a smile.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

You are.

George eyes over her uniform.

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET, EMBARRASSED)

Oh... Well, you probably know that the San Diego's Ultra-Light system is damaged beyond repair. So someone is going to have to tow her back to Mars. There is only one way to decide who is going to stay. COODC. What sub-class are you?

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Lieutenant.

George smiles.

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET, RELIEVED)

Well looks like you get to baby sitt. I'm a general.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

With all due respect, our mission iis of a highly sensitive nature. Before you make any decisions I strongly suggest you check with Command Control.

George thinks for a moment.<

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET)

I guess its best to go by the book.. Okay, but this is going to take a bit of time. I hope it is worth the effort.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Trust me, it is. We'll prepare for Ultra-Light while we wait.

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET)

Fine. But don't try any premature aacceleration.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

I wouldn't dream of it. Minsk out.<

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET)

North America out.

Before Codi can respond her screen goes blank.

EXT. SAN DIEGO IN SPACE (OPTICAL) -- MED SHOT

The ship cruises along with the Norrth America and its Battleships. Near by is the Minsk which turns away from the others.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is busy at their stations.. They all wear Ultra-Light seat belts. Codi is looking around the room. Ban looks up to her.

BAN (BLUNT)

Codi, the North America is hailing us again.

CODI (ANNOYED)

About time. Send them on up.>

Ban looks down at her screen and saays something into her headset.

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET)

This is Commander George Tarry of tthe Battlecruiser North America to the Minsk. Do you read?

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

This is Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuuvxbiea of the Corvette Minsk. I read you.

The image of George comes on the sccreen again.

GEORGE (OVER HEADSET, ANNOYED)

Commander.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Yes?

GEORGE

(OVER HEADSET, ANNOYED)

You can continue on your way. We'ree staying behind to take care of the San Diego. North America out.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Thanks. Minsk out.

The screen goes blank.

CODI (BLUNT)

What is the status on Ultra-Light?<

BAN (BLUNT)

All sections report ready for accelleration.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

Course laid in and plotted.<

LENA (BLUNT)

All Ultra-Light system is primed annd ready.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

All is a go.

CODI (BLUNT)

Okay. Ultra-Light is go. Give the ssignal and let's do it.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - MEDD SHOT

The ship heads away from the rest oof the ships. The Minsk speeds to Ultra-Light and disappears from view.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

The room vibrates very wildly, everryone and everything is jostled around. The crew fights to keep their eyes on their screens. After a few seconds the vibrating subsides.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

We've reached Ultra-Light.

LENA (BLUNT)

All systems are stabilized.<

Everyone gives a sigh of relief andd removes their seat belts. Codi stands up and looks down at Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

Continue on course. I'll be in the Medic Center if you need me. You have the bridge.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Are you feeling ill Commander?

Codi walks down off the Command Staation and heads for the hatch, she does not look back.

CODI (STERN)

You have your orders Exec!

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Yes ma'am.

Codi leaves and Nikolai is left bewwildered, this pleased Ban. Nikolai takes the Command Station.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - MEDD SHOT

The ship continues through space att Ultra-Light speed.

INT. MINSK - MEDIC CENTER EMERGENCYY ROOM

This is a large room with rows of eempty examination tables and other medical equipment. Two Medic Techs are talking to each other in a corner while another is checking out some equipment with a scanner. There are several hatches on each wall and the desk with a computer console by one of the hatches. A nurse sits behind the desk checking her screen. Everyone is wearing white uniforms with headsets. The hatch next to the desk slides open and Codi walks in. She walks up and stops before the desk. The hatch closes. The Techs stop what they are doing and look at her, they laugh among each other.

CODI (BLUNT)

I'm here to see the Lead Medic Techh.

NURSE (WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

I'm sorry, but...

The nurse looks up from her work annd her mouth drops open at the sight of a Felinion.

NURSE (SURPRISED)

You're one of those Felinions! Arenn't you?

CODI (ANNOYED)

That's Commander Felinion.

The Nurse jumps to her feet. The Teechs stop laughing, they try to act busy.

NURSE (EMBARRASSED)

Ah. Yes, sir... I mean ma'am. Well,, ah, the Lead Medic Tech is out on a call. But perhaps one of the other Techs can help you.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, that's okay. I want to see onlyy him.

NURSE (NERVOUS)

Well, I could have him paged.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, it’s no emergency. I'll just waait for him... In the lab.

NURSE (CONFUSED)

Sure. I'll send him in when he retuurns.

Codi nods, turns and walks to a hattch with a picture of a laboratory on it. She opens the hatch (by pushing the large button next to it) and the door slides open. Codi walks through and exits the room, the hatch slides shut. The Medic Techs rush over to the Nurse.

INT. MINSK - MEDIC CENTER LAB

This is a small room packed with alll sorts of electronic equipment. Codi stands before a long table with a large scanner on it. She flips a switch and the scanner comes to life. She flips a few more switches and the places her paw on the scanner. The scanner hums for a few seconds and then prints some data on its small screen. The machine beeps three times and then goes silent. Codi studies the screen. She smiles.

CODI (TO HERSELF, SMUG)

Just as I thought.

The hatch opens. Codi quickly removves her paw from the scanner, shuts it off and spins around. Standing at the hatch is Yurri Pamirs. He is a tall, handsome, holding a black cat and is wearing a Medic Tech uniform. On his shoulders are metal symbols of a staff with a snake wrapped around it. A bulky medic kit is slung over one shoulder. The cat has a collar with a metal symbol of a cage on it. The hatch closes.

YURRI (WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

May I help you?

CODI (STRUGGLING)

Oh, no. I was just admiring the equuipment.

Yurri walks over to Codi.

YURRI (PROUD)

Yes, the Substance Scan is a very uuseful piece of equipment. But what I meant you were looking for me.

Yurri slings the Medic Kit onto thee table.

CODI (SURPRISED)

You're the Lead Medic Tech?<

Yurri holds out his hand.

YURRI (PLEASED)

Yes. Yurri Pamirs.

CODI (BLUNT)

Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea.<

Codi and Yurri shake hands.<

CODI (PLEASED)

But everyone calls me Codi.<

The cat on his other arm aches its back and hisses at Codi. The Felinion stares into the cat's eyes and the feline immediately calms down. Yurri releases Codi's paw and looks down at the cat.

YURRI (CONFUSED)

Strange, he never did that before.<

CODI (ANNOYED)

What is an animal doing on a UCF shhip?

Yurri looks up to Codi and smiles.<

YURRI (SMUG)

Under the Mascot clause. It is perffectly legal. See

Yurri indicates to the symbol on thhe cat's collar. Codi smiles slightly.

CODI (SLY)

I'm sure it is.

YURRI (PLEASED)

Now what can I do for you?

CODI (BLUNT)

I'm trying to meet the heads of alll departments so I can introduce myself, personally.

YURRI (UNDERSTANDING)

I see. But forgive me, I haven't inntroduced the Minsk's mascot. Melbourne.

Yurri looks down at the cat.>

YURRI (PROUD)

We found him on a disabled grain caarrier which was attack by the Legion. In the attack Nerza escaped from the drive system and flooded the ship. Nerza in its gaseous state is deadly to humans, which is why the Legion didn't plunder the ship since the cargo was contaminated. . Fortunately, it is quite harmless to cats. Needless to say, everyone aboard was killed and Melbourne here was left all alone.

CODI (BLUNT)

He was lucky you found him.<

Yurri looks up to Codi.

YURRI (INTERESTED)

There are many different breeds of cats. Melbourne here is a Saturn Domestic Short Hair. What breed are you?

Codi frowns.

CODI (ANNOYED)

There are no so called breeds of Feelinions, just like there are no breeds of humans.

YURRI (EMBARRASSED)

I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you. But I'm a Medic Tech, anatomy is my life.

CODI (BLUNT)

I understand. But you'll have to exxcuse me, I have other departments to visit.

YURRI (UNSURE)

Sure.

Codi walks up to the hatch and openns it. She turns back towards Yurri and smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

It was nice meeting you.

YURRI (PLEASED)

You too.

Codi nods, turns and walks out of tthe room. The hatch closes. Yurri turns towards the Substance scanner and rubs his chin, he frowns.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a long hall with many hatchhes and a few crewmen. One of the hatches has an image of a full crown on it. Codi walks down the hall and up to the marked hatch. She looks at it.

CODI (BLUNT)

Hatch command. Unlock.

HATCH (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Voice authorized. Command valid. Prrocessing... Command completed.

Codi presses a large button next too the hatch and the hatch opens. She walks through the open door.

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

Nikolai is laying on the bed and sttaring at the ceiling. Codi enters the room and stops before the bed. She stares at Nikolai, shocked. He looks up to her and smiles. The hatch closes.

CODI (ANGRY)

How in the Oxidation Deposits did yyou get in here?

NIKOLAI (PROUD)

Commander Trotsky gave me the overrride command to his hatch. He felt that the Exec and Commander shouldn't hold anything from each other. But apparently you don't feel the same.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean? You have access tto both my public and private domain military profile.

NIKOLAI (SLY)

Yeah, but most of it is restricted to a higher initiator than my own. But a bigger concern is why are you so interested in the death of Commander Trotsky.

CODI (CONFUSED)

I don't know what you are talking aabout. His death was proven to be an accident. The lead Medic Tech's report stated as such.

NIKOLAI (SLY)

If you already saw the report then why did you request a copy of it?

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

Curiosity.

NIKOLAI (SARCASTICALLY)

And we all know what that did to thhe cat.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Is that a threat?

NIKOLAI (SLY)

Just an observation.

CODI (ANGRY)

I've just about had it! Now either you leave or I call in the Marines.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Not before I get something off my cchest!

Codi looks to him and sees he is deetermined, she sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

You’re wasting both of our time, Exxec. As Ban stated so well on the bridge we have been called every dirty name in the book and then some. We as Felinions are the cause of every humanoid problem there ever was. The biggest one on your mind is how we stole the Minsk from you! We would do the universe a great favor if we all rolled over and died! So save your breath and get out of here!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Actually, I was going to say the exxact opposite.

Codi is confused and he sees this.<

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I’ll be honest, when you first camee aboard and I leaved I was not the commander I despised you. I wanted nothing more than to shoot you out of an airlock and watch you explode in space. I was going to do everything in my power to get you kicked off this ship! But I don’t hate you anymore. In fact, I respect you.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What changed your mind?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

The incident with Ivan did. I havenn’t had a lot of experience with Felinions but I imagine what he said hurt you deeply.

CODI (ANNOYED)

The only thing worse that being callled something you are not is to be pitied! Save your pity for someone who needs it!

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

It was not pity I felt for you but respect.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Respect?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Ivan all out attacked you yet you ddidn't lash back. Then what you told me in the elevator about your people. About loyalty. About looking out for one another. It really got me thinking. You don’t have to be out here. You could be back on your home world. There you would be treated a lot nicer and the opportunities for advancement are probably of a broader range. Yet you decide to spend your life out here among those that despise you. To be quite honest I don’t think I could do that.

Codi pauses to think and then smilees.

CODI (SMUG)

You’d be surprised what you can do when you have to.

Nikolai is confused but she offers no explanation.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

All the information we humans have about Felinions are only figures, numbers. Nothing about heart and soul. That is not right. I want to put away all the hatred. All the fears. All the Politics. And find out what you and your people are all about.

CODI (PLEASED)

I appreciate your cander, Exec. It will make my job a lot easier.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Thank you. Speaking of which, if yoou need any assistance with your interest in Trotsky please do not hesitate to ask.

Codi smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

You can be sure of it.

NIKOLAI (SARCASTIC)

Well, I better get going before youu sic those Marines on me.

Nikolai turns and heads for the hattch, Codi pauses briefly to think.

CODI (BLUNT)

You have laid so much trust in me EExec I would like to return the favor.

Nikolai stops, turns and looks to hher.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Ma’am?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I’m looking into the deaths of the Commander and Comm Officer not because it interests me but because it interests Command Control.

Nikolai is concerned and she walks over to him, Codi looks him square in the eye.

CODI (STERN)

Now what I'm about to tell you mustt swear will not leave this room.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

As long as it is in the interest off Command Control and the UCF. Sure.

CODI (STERN)

Trust me, it is.

Codi takes a deep breath.

CODI (BLUNT)

When Commander Trotsky was alive annd in command of this ship, 73.3 percent of the ships attacked in the Minsk's patrol corridor by the Legion were too far away to be helped. That is greater than any other patrol corridor in the fleet. This figure is too high to be accounted for chance. We believe that their was a Legion spy aboard.

NIKOLAI (DEFENSIVE)

But Trotsky was no spy!

CODI (REASSURING)

We knew that. That was why on his llast trip to Mars Command Control approached him and told him what I've told you. He was instructed to discreetly find the spy and report back to Command Control.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But he never mentioned this to me.<

CODI (BLUNT)

He, just like me, had strict orderss to tell no one.

Nikolai thinks for a moment.>

NIKOLAI (THINKING)

Come to think of it, he DID seem a bit distant when he returned.

CODI (BLUNT)

He was ordered to keep a detailed llog. Which, by the way, I was able to locate. His last entry stated that he received an anonymous message that instructed him to go to the Ultra-Light Thruster Room. There the informant promised to reveal the spy.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

I always wondered why we found him there.

CODI (BLUNT)

I speculate that the message was a trap. There, the real spy was waiting for him on top of the Thrusters. The spy called him up and as he reached the top of the ladder the spy struck him. Trotsky lost his grip and fell to his death. I questioned the crewman who found him and he said that Trotsky's face was badly bruised and there was some slimy residue on his hands.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But that was never mentioned in thee Lead Medic Tech's report.

CODI (BLUNT)

I have a theory on that. I was origginally sent here because Trotsky's body was buried in space by the Lead Medic Tech even though his will specifically stated his body was to return to Mars. During my tour of the Thruster Room I discovered the residue on the ladder and wiped some on my hands. When I got the chance, I went to the Medic Center Lab and ran a Substance Scan on it. It turned out to be the Medicated Hardtak, it is exclusively used by Medic Techs as a conductive liquid for electrodes. It is extremely slippery. And the last thing is the Lead Medic Tech ran the Substance Scans on both Trotsky and the ladder itself and reported negative, yet today I found it on the ladder. Yurri has to be our man or be a big part of it.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

That answers about Trotsky's death,, but not how could Yurri get access to locations on the Minsk and other ships in our corridor. Or for that matter, contact the Legion without us picking up his transmissions.

CODI (BLUNT)

That's what we still have to find oout.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Let's haul him in and get the answeers.

CODI (BLUNT)

We can't do that. We have some exceellent evidence, but unfortunately it is all circumstantial. Any half rate lawyer could get him off.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Then what do we do?

CODI (BLUNT)

Keep our eyes on Yurri.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Can't we just search his room and ooffice?

CODI (BLUNT)

We can't risk letting him know we aare on to him until we have some hard core evidence.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Did he kill Nicholas? Was she murdeered too?

CODI (BLUNT)

No. During the battle for the San DDiego Command Control contacted me and said that Comm Officer's body had been autopsied, a brain aneurysm was cause of death. Her death appears to be natural.

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

Just like Yurri reported.

CODI (BLUNT)

That's probably why he allowed the body to return home.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Is Ban on this too?

CODI (BLUNT)

Yes. Her job is if I have an accideent like Trotsky, she is to retrieve my logs and bring them back to Command Control.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

I have one more question. Why did yyou help the Admiral and my father defend me? I mean, wouldn't it make things a lot easier? Ban could have kept her rank and for all you knew I could have been the spy.

CODI (BLUNT)

I see you have done a through backgground check on me.

NIKOLAI (BALKING)

Well… Err…

Codi smiles.

CODI (BLUNT)

To answer your question. Before I ccame on board Command Control had me go through everyone's service record thoroughly. To see if I couldn't narrow down anyone. I know for a fact the only reason why you were made Exec was by your father's pull with Command Control.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Now wait a MiniYerk...

CODI (BLUNT)

Even though Trotsky had been in commmand for three KiloYerks before you arrived, both moral and efficiency raised dramatically shortly after you arrived on the Minsk. I knew this was your doing. You father was just correcting a gross miss sight by Command Control. But to answer your question, I needed someone to run this ship while I was busy looking for the spy. I needed someone who not only knew the ship inside and out but also the crew aboard her. That someone was you. I basically needed an Exec.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thanks.

CODI (BLUNT)

Now that I have placed trust in youu. I need to ask a question. The tape that we viewed, is that the true mission the Admiral intends for me or is there more he has confided in you.

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Why do you ask?

CODI (BLUNT)

I have discovered that humanoids teend to say one thing but then do another, especially when it comes to Felinions.

Codi waits for an answer but Nikolaai offers nothing.

CODI (BLUNT)

Please answer my question.

Nikolai pauses again.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

No, the mission is as it was statedd. No tricks or traps.

Codi smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Nikolai nods, turns and leaves. Aftter he is gone she stares it and ponders.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

Outside the commander’s quarters Caatherine is waiting, she is leaning up against the wall. As Nikolai passes she smiles.

CATHERINE (SARCASTIC)

Looks like someone had to stay afteer class.

Nikolai stops and forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Just feeling out the competition.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

Well now that things have calmed doown, we can continue sniffing around. I can bury a request to my friend at Command Control in the next batch of stat reports. Maybe they have discovered something about our feline friends or my their history is restricted.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No, no more spying. We are going too lie low for a while and leave the Felinions alone.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

If I hadn’t seen that grand performmance on the bridge I’d almost believe you.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

It was no act, Ivan was way out of line. I put him in his place because he deserved it.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

But they are Felinions, they are thhe ones that deserved it! I say we don’t hold back.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

And I say we lay off. Since I’m thee Exec my vote counts!

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

Don’t tell me you are turning into a cat lover.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

They aren’t cats. They aren’t pets.. They are living creatures with feelings. They deserve to be treated with respect.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

What happened to getting the Minsk back at any cost?

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

There is enough politics going arouund. Command Control has their agenda, the admiral has his, my father has yet another and they all expect me to do their bidding no matter how dirty it is. Well, I’m sick and tired of it. I just want to lay low and live in peace.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

What did that Sepcor tell you in thhere? Was she on to us?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No, just that I barely dodged the llaz. Command Control almost demoted me. I had never been demoted in my life. They could have kicked me out or worse. I need to cool my thrusters, refocus. Get a couple of merits under my belt.

Catherine walks up to Nikolai.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

I personally don’t think this is thhe way to go. But I’ll play it like you want. Not because you are my superior but because I love you.

Catherine grabs his hand and squeezzes it, this makes him smile.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you, Cat. I really appreciatee it.

CATHERINE (SLY)

Save your thanks for tonight when wwe are in bed.

Nikolai chuckles but she becomes seerious.

CATHERINE (CONCERNED)

But what about the Admirals Plan, hhis real plan. Are you going to warn them it is a trap?

Nikolai pauses to think and then shhakes his head.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No, like I said, I’m playing it loww. If they figure it out before it is too late, fine. If they don’t, that is fine too. It is all up to God.

Catherine smiles.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

I’m glad you didn’t lose all your ccommon sense.

She goes to kiss him but they hear someone coming, they let go and start down the hall as if nothing has happened.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - MEDD SHOT

The ship continues on at Ultra-Lighht.

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

Ban is here talking to Codi, she thhrows up her arms.

BAN (SHOCKED)

You told him what?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Everything.

BAN (SHOCKED)

Have you gone mad?

CODI (STERN)

He’s a good man, he can be trusted..

BAN (ANNOYED)

He could also be the spy!

CODI (HONEST)

He had the most to gain out of the Commander’s death, he was next in line. If he is the spy he is the most stupidest one around.

BAN (ANNOYED)

He is a humanoid! They are noted foor their stupidity!

Codi glares at Ban.

CODI (STERN)

The way they treat us is wrong! I wwon’t argue that! But accusing them in the same matter won’t make anything right!

BAN (SARCASTIC)

The next thing you’ll wanting to maake one of them your pet!

Codi points at Ban.

CODI (STERN)

That will be quite enough!

Ban sighs.

BAN (FRUSTRATED)

I see there is no changing your minnd.

Codi smiles.

CODI (TEASING)

You forget I’m as stubborn as you.<

Ban laughs but Codi is serious.

CODI (SERIOUS)

Though we may not always see eye too eye, Ban. I do appreciate your input. In fact, if you were ever to stop I would be most distressed.

BAN (REASSURING)

As long as we are Kalatirs you willl never get me to shut up.

Codi and Ban look to one another. NNot as Commander and Comm Officer, but as friends.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

The only person in the room is Yurrri who is on a ladder next to a Battleship. The cockpit of the ship is open, Yurri is bending down inside the ship. On the nose of the ship is a collection of electronic tools, there is also a laser pistol here. The hatch opens and the Lead Maintenance Tech, Dmitri Tskhinvali, and two maintenance techs walk in. The hatch closes. Dmitri is large, has dark skin and red hair. Everyone is wearing headsets. Dmitri spots Yurri.

DMITRI (WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT, EXCITED)

What are you doing?

Yurri quickly pulls himself out andd stands up and quickly turns towards the hatch, he is holding some sort of tool. Yurri quickly grabs the laser and points it at them, they are all shocked.

YURRI (COMMANDING)

Don't anybody move!

The Techs look at each other, then turn towards the hatch.

YURRI (EXCITED)

I said hold it!

One of the Techs opens the hatch annd Yurri shoots, the blast hits one of the Techs in the back and he falls dead to the floor. The other Tech rushes through the hatch, Yurri fires again. The Tech dives around the corner and the laser misses, the hatch closes. Yurri points his weapon at Dmitri and smiles.

YURRI (SMUG)

Smart move Lead Maintenance Tech.

Dmitri smiles.

DMITRI (PLEASED)

Yes. He'll be bring back the Marinees.

Yurri frowns.

INT. MINSK - CHAPEL

This is a small room with four rowss of metal pews. At the front of the room is a small altar, above it on the wall is a large crucifix. A woman dressed in a standard Minsk uniform with small metal crucifixes on her shoulders is here. The Pastor has short blonde hair, is middle aged and is polishing the crucifix with a large rag. The hatch at the far end of the room opens and Nikolai walks into the room through it. He has his headset clipped to his belt. The Pastor turns towards the hatch and smiles. He walks up to her and the door closes.

PASTOR (WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT, PLEASED)

Exec Officer, this is a pleasant suurprise. It's been some time.

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

Too long. Unfortunately, I'm here oon business.

PASTOR (SURPRISED)

You sound like my husband. What mayy I do for you?

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

Can you keep a secret?

The Pastor looks to Nikolai oddly, he offers no explanation.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is at their stations, exceept Nikolai's which is empty. Ban turns towards Codi.

BAN (BLUNT)

The Marines are on their way.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Any word from the Exec?

BAN (BLUNT)

No, he's shut off his communicationn line. We've checked his quarters, still nothing. Should I page him?

Codi thinks for a moment.

CODI (STERN)

No, he asked for a Yerk off to deall with some personal business.

Ban nods and turns back towards herr console, she spies something on it.

BAN (CONCERNED)

I'm getting something from the Bay Room. It's the Lead Medic Tech. He wants to talk to you. Urgently.

CODI (STERN)

Path the communication line up to mme.

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes Codi.

Ban mumbles into her headset.

BAN (BLUNT)

He's not near a terminal so I only have audio.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

This is Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuuvxbiea.

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

By now you probably know who I am aand what I've done.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

Give it up, you're cornered.>

YURRI (OVER HEADSET, LAUGHING)

I'm the one who is giving the threaats.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

You think I'm going to let you pushh us around over one lousy hostage?

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

Of course not. But I've been busy. I've been rewiring the Battleships here. I just may explode them, on accident of course.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Are you trying to convince me that a Medic Tech knows how to rewire sophisticated military equipment?

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

You're forgetting that I've not onlly been trained as a Medic Tech but also a spy. And spies DO know how to rewire sophisticated military equipment. With that in mind. Do you want to hear my demands?

Codi hesitates.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, ANNOYED)

Go ahead.

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

The first is obvious. No one comes in here unless I say so. Next, I want a shuttle pilot down here.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, SARCASTIC)

What's wrong, they don't teach you how to fly a shuttle in spy school?

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

Of course, but I'll have my hands ttoo full for that.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Before I even consider your demandss I want to hear the voice of your hostage.

There is a long pause of silence.

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

Sure.

There is another long pause.>

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

Say something to the nice Commanderr.

DMITRI (OVER HEADSET)

I'm here, ma'am.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Are you all right?

YURRI (OVER HEADSET)

He can't hear you, but he is fine. Trust me. But that's enough talk for now.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, EXCITED)

Wait!

BAN (BLUNT)

Too late, he's gone.

Codi looks down at Ban.

CODI (STERN)

Get a hold of the Marines and tell them to take a position at the hatch of the Bay Room, but they are to do nothing. Then dig me up a shuttle pilot. It has to be a volunteer, I can't order anyone on this mission.

Ban mumbles into her headset.

CATHERINE (SURPRISED)

You're going to give in?

CODI (STERN)

No, I'm going to stall until I can figure this out.

Ban looks up at Codi.

BAN (BLUNT)

The Marines have been notified. Andd as far as the pilot, I'm right here.

Codi looks at her, surprised.

CODI (STERN)

You're also a valued member of thiss bridge.

BAN (BLUNT)

Maybe, but it's time we showed themm what Felinions can do.

CODI (STERN)

No, you're post is here.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Come on, quit kittening me.<

CODI (FIRM)

No.

Ban stares coldly at Codi.

CODI (ANGRY)

I said no!

Ban Sighs.

BAN (DISAPPOINTED)

Well, at least let me go down theree and manage the communications.

Codi thinks for a moment.

CODI (STERN)

Okay. But not until you have found a shuttle pilot.

BAN (EXCITED)

Thank you, Codi!

Ban turns back towards her console and begins mumbling into her headset.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a long corridor. There are several hatches here, in the center is a branch to another corridor. A man dressed in a uniform similar to the Battleship pilots, but with smaller symbols of a shuttle on his shoulders and has a headset, is standing at this intersection. Ban walks down the hall and up to the Pilot.

BAN (PLEASED)

You must be the shuttle pilot I nottified.

The Pilot looks over Ban's uniform..

PILOT (WITH RUSSIAN ACCENT)

Yes I am, ma'am. But why did you seend me down here?

BAN (PLEASED)

There has been a change in plans. WWe won't be needing you.

PILOT (CONFUSED)

But I thought you were relaying thee Commander's direct orders?

BAN (STERN)

I was. Just like I am now.

PILOT (ANNOYED)

You could have just told me over thhe communication line.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Excuse me?

The Pilot thinks quickly.

PILOT (UNEVEN)

And saved yourself a trip, ma'am.

The Pilot quickly salutes, Ban retuurns the salute. The Pilot then turns and walks down the hall. Ban watches him disappear. She hesitates, then ducks into the intersecting corridor.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a corridor leading to the BBay Room. A detachment of armed Marines are gathered around the hatch, some of them are pointing hand held scanners at it. All of them are wearing heavy battle armor on their chests and riot helmets. Along with the Marines are some Medic Techs and Maintenance Techs. The Medics are wearing belts with all sort of medical equipment on them. Ban rushes down the hall and up to the group, the Sergeant of the Marines meets her.

SERGEANT (PLEASED)

The Commander told us to expect youu.

Ban hesitates.

BAN (UNEASY)

What is the situation?

SERGEANT (CONFUSED)

I thought you're just here to set uup a comm station.

BAN (BLUNT)

Do you really think she would have sent me all the way down her for that?

The Sergeant looks at Ban, untrustiing.

SERGEANT (UNEASY)

I guess so. We are picking up two bbodies, both are alive and well. We are also picking up one dead body which is laying on the deck near the hatch.

BAN (BLUNT)

That would be one of the Maintenancce Techs.

The Sergeant nods.

SERGEANT (EXPLAINING)

The scans indicate that some of thee ships have been tampered with, but we can't tell exactly what he did to them.

BAN (INTERESTED)

I see.

SERGEANT (BLUNT)

We've discussed our options. The onnly one we've come up with is using JAN-19 nerve gas. The techs say we can pipe it in through the air system. It will paralyze them instantly, but its effects aren't permanent.

BAN (STERN)

The Commander and I have discussed this, if he is wearing a filter the gas won't effect him.

SERGEANT (DEFENSIVE)

Our scans haven't picked up any fillters.

BAN (STERN)

Your scans should have also picked up the extent of the tampering of the ships.

SERGEANT (EMBARRASSED)

We're picking up some unidentifiablle interference.

BAN (STERN)

Interference that could hide the faact he is wearing a filter?

SERGEANT (EMBARRASSED)

I guess so.

BAN (STERN)

Here is the new plan.

SERGEANT (CONFUSED)

Plan? Who put you in charge?>

BAN (STERN)

The Commander of course.

SERGEANT (CONFUSED)

She didn't notify me.

BAN (STERN)

It doesn’t matter. I out rank you!<

SERGEANT (DEFIANT)

If you are ordering me then I will listen to your plan.

Ban hesitates.

BAN (STERN)

I'm ordering you.

SERGEANT (BLUNT)

Then you're in charge.

BAN

(STERN)

Fine. Back to the plan. I'll go in there as the shuttle pilot. I'll-

SERGEANT (INTERRUPTING, EXCITED)

But one of my Marines could play thhat part, you're too valuable.

BAN (WHISPERS, ANNOYED)

You sound like Codi.

SERGEANT (CONFUSED)

Pardon me?

BAN (ANNOYED)

I’m a Felinion, or reflexes and sennses or more attuned for a situation like this. I'll go in there as the shuttle pilot. I'll leave my communication line open and survey the situation.

SERGEANT (CONFUSED)

Surely he will take your communicattion line away like he did with the Lead Maintenance Tech.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Then you'll have to rush in as soonn as you lose contact with me. Anyway. When I feel the time is right I will say Lenin, something easy for you to remember, into the communication line. At that point you and your Marines will storm in and secure the situation. Got it?

SERGEANT (CONCERNED)

I don't like it. It needs work.

BAN (ANGRY)

Are you going to follow my orders oor do I have to place someone else as Sergeant?

The Sergeant thinks for a moment.

SERGEANT (DISAPPOINTED)

I will do as ordered.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Good. Open the hatch and announce mme.

SERGEANT (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

The Sergeant turns towards the Mariines.

SERGEANT (COMMANDS)

Prepare to open the hatch.

Everyone moves to either side of thhe hatch, the Marines draw their weapons. The Marine nearest to the hatch button looks towards the Sergeant, she nods and the Marine pushes the button and keeps pushing it. The hatch opens and several laser blasts fire from the bay and hit the bulkhead in the hall.

SERGEANT (SCREAMS)

Hold your fire! We have the shuttlee pilot you requested!

There is along pause of silence.

YURRI (THROUGH THE HATCH)

Send him in, but he'd better be aloone and unarmed!

SERGEANT (SCREAMS)

You got it!

The Sergeant turns and looks at Bann, she nods to her. Ban returns the nod. As Ban turns towards the open hatch Nikolai appears and walks towards Ban, he still carries his headset on his belt. He reaches Ban.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I saw all the Marines run this way.. What is going on?

Ban and the Sergeant turns towards Nikolai, surprised.

BAN (SURPRISED)

The Sergeant will explain everythinng.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I asked you.

Ban ignores Nikolai, turns and headds for the hatch.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Come back here, that's an order.

Ban walks through the hatch, Nikolaai starts after her. The Sergeant grabs his arm.

SERGEANT (EXCITED)

Wait sir, you don't understand.

Nikolai pulls his arm and rips the grip of the Sergeant, he rushes to the hatch. The Marine holding the hatch button notices this, he lets go of it. The hatch slides shut but not before Nikolai passes through it and into the Bay room.

SERGEANT (FRUSTRATED)

Sepcor!

Everyone is in a state of shock.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

Dmitri is standing in the middle of the room and on top of the landing decks (which are locked into the closed position) without his headset. Nikolai and Ban are near the hatch, walking towards Dmitri. Next to them laying on the deck is a dead Tech. Yurri is peeking around a shuttle, pointing his weapon at Nikolai and Ban. One arm of his Uniform has been ripped off, a wide leather strap is fasten around the upper arm. The strap has many lights, buttons, computer chips and sensors.

YURRI (ANGRY)

Stop right there!

Nikolai and Ban stop in their tracks.

YURRI (ANGRY)

What in the Carbon Deposits do you think you are doing?

BAN (QUICKLY)

The Exec Officer insisted on seeing how Dmitri was. I'm your shuttle pilot.

YURRI (ANGRY, SARCASTICALLY)

Right! And I'm Lenin!

Ban looks towards the hatch, but it does not open. She sighs with relief. Yurri notices this.

YURRI (ANGRY)

Don't get any bright ideas!

Ban turns back towards Yurri.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, ANGRY)

Commander, come on line.

There is no response.

BAN (QUICKLY)

I can explain everything.

YURRI (ANGRY)

Shut up!

Yurri listens for a moment.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, ANGRY)

Commander, if you don't respond now I'm going to start shooting!

CODI (OVER HEADSET, QUICKLY)

I'm here.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, ANGRY)

What do you think you are trying to pull?

CODI (OVER HEADSET, CONFUSED)

What are you talking about?

YURRI (ANGRY)

I asked for a pilot, but instead I get an Exec and a Comm Officer.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, CONFUSED)

What? Hold on...

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, ANGRY)

I will not hold on!

There is no response.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, ANGRY)

Commander!

There is a long pause.

CODI (OVER HEADSET)

I've just been informed of the situation. There has been a mistake. If you'll send them out I'll send in the REAL shuttle pilot.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, ANGRY)

I don't think so! Now I have three hostages! Two of which are highly important. One of which can be made an example for trying to mess with me!

Yurri points his gun at Dmitri, fear comes across the hostage's face. Shock over the rest.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, PLEADING)

It was a mistake!

YURRI (OVER HEADSET, ANGRY)

Yes, on your part.

BAN (FRANTIC)

It was my fault!

Yurri takes careful aim.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

You can't!

CODI (OVER HEADSET, PLEADING)

Please!

YURRI (SARCASTICALLY)

Sorry Lead Maintenance Tech, but you're the lowest ranking hostage.

Yurri grabs the trigger firmly.

DMITRI (TERRIFIED)

Have mercy!

CODI (OVER HEADSET, PLEADING)

No!

Yurri fires and hit Dmitri square in the chest, he falls backwards dead onto the deck. Nikolai and Ban race over to the corpse and looks him over. A smile comes across Yurri's face. Nikolai shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

He's gone.

Ban gets up and turns to Yurri.

BAN (INFURIATED)

Why?

Nikolai stands up and looks at Yurri, horrified.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, STUNNED)

Yes. Why?

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

To prove to you I'm not screwing around. You try something stupid again and there will only be one hostage. Understand?

There is a short pause.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

Yes.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

Good. Now send down that shuttle pilot.

BAN (ANGRY)

I can fly the shuttle.

YURRI (ANGRY)

I want a REAL shuttle pilot.

BAN (ANGRY)

I AM a real shuttle pilot.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, ANGRY)

Send the pilot down now, Commander!

CODI (OVER HEADSET, HESITANT)

Okay. But it's going to take a fe-

Yurri reaches up and flips a switch on the side of his headset and Codi is cut off.

YURRI (ANGRY)

Enough of that deposits!

Ban looks Yurri over.

BAN (PLEASED, LOUDLY)

I see you're not wearing a filter.

YURRI (BLUNT)

No. I don't believe in them... But before your friends outside get any ideas, they had better know about this.

Yurri points to the strange device on his arm.

BAN (CONFUSED)

What is it?

YURRI (BLUNT)

It a Stat Coll. It is design to monitor and transmit a person's vital signs. But I've modified it. It is being transmitted to the Battleships in this room. If they pick up any vital signs other than fully conscious the light explosive generators on each ship will over load. Now I'm no Maintenance Tech, but I estimate the resulting explosion will be strong enough to destroy three-fourths of this ship.

Ban thinks for a moment.

BAN (LOUDLY)

What if the signal jammed.

YURRI (BLUNT)

If the Battleships lose the signal they will also explode.

Yurri reaches his free hand up to the device.

YURRI (BLUNT)

So if I were to turn it off the same will happen.

Nikolai and Ban look at him nervously. He smiles and puts his hand down.

YURRI (SMUG)

So don't get any bright ideas.

While Yurri points his weapon at Nikolai and Ban he pulls a Medic scanner from his belt. He points it at the hostages and presses a button, it gives several beeps. He quickly glances down at the scanner. He looks up and smiles at Ban.

YURRI (SARCASTIC)

Nice try.

BAN (FALSE SURPRISE)

What?

YURRI (ANNOYED)

Drop it.

BAN (FALSE CONFUSION)

I don't know what you are talking about.

YURRI (ANGRY)

Drop it or someone dies!

BAN (QUICKLY)

Okay! Okay!

Ban reaches down into one of her boots.

YURRI (QUICKLY)

Carefully, or the Exec gets it.

Ban hesitates, then slowly reaches down into her boot and pulls out a small laser weapon. She drops it to the deck.

YURRI (BLUNT)

Kick it over here.

Ban kicks the weapon and it slides across the room near the shuttle.

YURRI (SARCASTICALLY)

You never can have too much fire power.

Yurri walks from behind the shuttle and stops next to the weapon, he places his scanner back on his belt. Yurri bends down towards the weapon while keeping his and his eyes trained on Nikolai and Ban. The two look at each other. Yurri picks up and the weapon and quickly looks it over, Ban winks at Nikolai and he nods. Yurri smiles and points both weapons at the hostages.

YURRI (IMPRESSED)

Nice Laz.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

How far do you really think you can get in a shuttle?

YURRI (SMUG)

I don't have to get far.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Where would you go?

Yurri smiles.

YURRI (SMUG)

I have a few friends in the area, I could arrange a pickup.

Ban frowns. Yurri flips the switch on his headset.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET)

You still with us, Commander?

CODI (OVER HEADSET, ANNOYED)

Yes.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET)

Good. While we're waiting, lower the landing decks.

NIKOLAI (SCREAMS)

Don't do it Commander!

YURRI (ANNOYED)

Shut up.

NIKOLAI (SCREAMS)

Don't give in!

YURRI (ANGRY)

I said shut up!

NIKOLAI (SCREAMS)

We're expendable! The Minsk isn’t!

Yurri aims his weapon and fires, Nikolai is hit in the thigh. He falls to the deck and grabs is wound, Ban kneels down next to him. Nikolai moans in pain.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, EXCITED)

What happened?

Ban rips the laser hole in Nikolai's pants even bigger.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, SARCASTIC)

You're Exec had a serious accident.

Ban licks Nikolai's wound and he stops moaning.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

The pain… It is gone… How did you do that?

Ban looks to Nikolai.

BAN (EXPLAINING)

Felinion saliva has antiseptic and pain deadening agents, it will hold the pain off for a while. But you're going to need some REAL medical help.

Nikolai smiles to Ban.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Ban smiles back.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, EXCITED)

How is he?

BAN (INTO HEADSET)

He's been hit in the thigh.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

And if you don't start lowering the decks he is going to have an accident in his head.

CODI

(OVER HEADSET, EXCITED)

Okay. Okay. Just no more shooting.

There is a pause. Then, the decks in the center of the room begins to lower. The decks are replace by the green light. Ban looks up to Yurri.

BAN (ANNOYED)

He's going to need medic attention. You’re a medic Yurri, you can help him.

Yurri chuckles.

YURRI (LAUGHING)

And give you a chance to jump me? I think not. He’ll get the help he needs As soon as I'm off this ship.

BAN (ANGRY)

He may not last that long!

YURRI (SARCASTICALLY)

Then it's up to the Commander to load things up.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Well, you didn't need to shoot him.

YURRI (SMUG)

It's the Commander's fault for letting him carrying on.

Yurri pauses.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET)

Right Commander?

CODI

(OVER HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

Yeah, sure.

YURRI (INTO HEADSET)

That's all for now.

Yurri flips the switch on his headset. He walks around the green light so he is opposite of Nikolai and Ban, he looks at them.

YURRI (BLUNT)

Now you two are going to toss your Communication lines into space.

BAN (CONFUSED)

What?

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN, CONFUSED)

Why?

YURRI (LOUDLY)

In case some of your Marine friends are listening. If they are I want them to know that I'm keeping one eye on the door.

BAN (LAUGHING)

Oh give me a drq-

YURRI (ANNOYED)

Do it now or it is going to be the Exec that is going into space.

Ban stares at Yurri for a moment, then removes her headset.

BAN (ANNOYED)

I hope you know how much this thing cost me.

Nikolai removes his and hands it to Ban. She gets up, walks a few steps to the edge of the light and holds them over it. She lets them fall and the pass through the green light. Yurri looks down at them as they fall away from the ship is slow motion.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

All the Marines are near the hatch to the Bay Room, all their weapons are holstered. Some are taping on there headsets while others are looking at the Sergeant. The Maintenance Techs are farthest from the hatch but some are pointing scanners at it.

MARINE (CONCERNED)

Their Comm Signals went dead.

SERGEANT (ANNOYED)

I know.

MARINE (BLUNT)

The Comm Officer gave us specific orders if they went dead we were to rush in.

SERGEANT (ANGRY)

And the Commander has given me orders to sit tight under all conditions. Which orders do you think I'm going to follow?

The Marine nods and turns towards the hatch.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

Yurri continues to stare into the light, Ban is watching him carefully. Nikolai looks at Yurri.

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN)

Were you the one that killed Commander Trotsky?

Yurri looks up at Nikolai, he starts to walk around the edge of the light towards him.

YURRI (SURPRISED)

Who else would have?

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN)

But why?

YURRI (SMUG)

Does it really matter?

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN, PLEADING)

I need to know why.

YURRI (SMUG)

Sorry. You wouldn't like the answer anyway.

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN, ANNOYED)

Please.

YURRI (ANNOYED)

Be quiet.

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN, ANGRY)

Tell me!

YURRI (ANNOYED)

Are we going to start this again?

NIKOLAI (INFURIATED)

Tell me you Oxidation Head!

Yurri stops near Nikolai and Ban.

YURRI (ANGRY)

Listen you pile o-

BAN (INTERRUPTING, EXCITED)

Now!

Ban dives and rolls away from Nikolai, he just rolls away for Yurri. Yurri fires his weapon and hits the spot where Nikolai was laying. He then quickly turns towards the hatch and fires his weapon, the laser blast destroys the access button next to it.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

Several of the scanners some of the Maintenance Techs are pointing towards the hatch goes off.

FIRST TECH (EXCITED)

I'm picking up some blasts.

The Sergeant turns to the Techs.

SECOND TECH (EXCITED)

And everyone in there is scrambling around.

FIRST TECH (EXCITED)

But I'm still are picking up three life signs.

SECOND TECH (MUMBLES)

But for how long?

SERGEANT (INTO HEADSET, CALM)

Did you copy that, bridge?

CODI (OVER HEADSET)

Yeah. You have permission to secure the situation at all costs. Understood?

SERGEANT (INTO HEADSET)

Understood.

The Sergeant looks at the Marines.

SERGEANT (EXCITED)

Arm and lock! We're going in! Now!

The Techs quickly rush to the back of the room, the Marines draw their weapons.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

Yurri looks at Nikolai who is limping towards him. Yurri smiles, points Ban’s weapon at him and pulls the trigger. Nothing happens. Yurri stares at the weapon in disbelief for a moment.

YURRI (ANGRY)

Deposit Felinion trick!

Yurri points his weapon at Nikolai but he is already on them. Nikolai grabs his hand and forces it away from himself. The weapons go off and the blast fires into the bulkhead. The two men fight over the weapon. But being injured Yurri has the advantage. Yurri drops Ban's weapon and punches Nikolai in the face. Nikolai lets go of the weapon, stumbles back and falls to the deck. He moans with pain. Yurri points the weapon directly at Nikolai and smiles.

YURRI (SMUG)

Time for you to die Exec!

Nikolai looks up in horror.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

The group of Marines, Medic Tech and the Maintenance Techs stare at the hatch. The Marine next to it continuously slams his fist against the button, the hatch does not open. The Marine stops hitting the button, her turns towards the Sergeant.

MARINE (ANXIOUS)

It's locked!

MAINTENANCE TECH (EXCITED)

Impossible! Only the bridge can lock that hatch! It must be jammed.

The Sergeant turns towards the Techs.

SERGEANT (CONCERNED)

Can it be opened?

The Tech uses his scanner on the hatch. He nods.

MAINTENANCE TECH (BLUNT)

Yes. But the bridge could do it a lot faster.

SERGEANT (INTO HEADSET, EXCITED)

Did you copy that bridge? We have an emergency situation!

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

Yurri pulls the trigger as Ban flies through the air towards him, she hits him as the weapons fires. The laser blast whizzes by Nikolai's head. Yurri and Ban crash to the deck, she is on top of him. Yurri points his weapon at Ban's face. She grabs his shoulder and digs her claws in deep, he screams with pain. She slaps his weapon hand with her other paw, the weapon flies out of his hand and it slides over next to the edge of the green light. Ban looks over at it. Yurri punches her in the face, stunning her. He then pushes her off of himself and she rolls onto her back on the deck. Yurri sits up and quickly looks around the room, he spots his weapon laying on the deck. He quickly begins to crawl towards it, but Ban grabs one of his legs and he falls flat on his face. She digs both sets of claws into his legs. Yurri screams in pain. With his free leg he thrusts it back and kicks her hard in the face, thick orange blood like grease spurts out of her nose. The blow forces her to retract her claws, she rolls on her side and moans with pain. Yurri takes a deep breath and struggles to a standing position, pain fills his face. He begins to hobble over to the weapon. Ban slowly gets up on all fours, she spots Yurri. She jumps to her feet and races towards him. He reaches the weapon first, he picks it up and turns towards her. He points it at her. Ban grabs Yurri's forearm and points it away from her. She digs her claws through his sleeve an into his forearm, he screams with pain. He drops the weapon. The hatch slides open and the Marines rush in, they fan out. Some stop and point their weapons at Yurri.

MARINE (EXCITED)

Hold it right there!

Ban and Yurri look over to the Marines. Some Maintenance Techs file in behind them.

SERGEANT (COMMANDING)

It's all over!

Yurri turns and looks Ban, she does the same. He looks deep into her eyes and smiles.

YURRI (COLD)

It's all over... For the Minsk.

He reaches for the Stat and she sees this. She grabs Yurri shoulders and digs both sets of claws deep into his shoulders. He screams with pain. She grabs onto him, spins him around and leans towards the green light. Yurri and Ban fall towards it. She lets go of him, places all four paws on him and pushes off with all her might. She flies upward. Yurri passes through the green light and into space screaming, he drifts away from the ship. Ban flies up to the large mechanical arm above and just manages to grab onto it with both paws. But the arm is very greasy and she beings to lose her grip. Two Marines are near Nikolai. One is standing guard over him while the other helps him up into a sitting position. Nikolai looks around the room bewildered, he notices Ban. Nikolai jumps to his feet and points at the mechanical arm.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Someone bring that arm down!

A Maintenance Techs rush passed the Marines and over to a panel on the wall near Nikolai, he begins to hobble towards the edge of the light. The two Marines follow. The Tech begins to work furiously at the panel.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Someone bring up the decks!

Another Tech rushes through the Marines and over to another panel on the wall. The arm begins to move towards the Marines, it is painfully slow. One of Ban's paws slips off and she dangles by one paw. She desperate tries to grab onto the arm with both paws, but it is too slippery and she keeps slipping. Nikolai reaches the edge of the light.

NIKOLAI (FRANTIC)

Marines! Form a Life chain on me!

The Marines line up behind Nikolai, they grab onto the belt of the person in front of them. The Sergeant is in the front of the line, she grabs onto Nikolai's belt. He leans forward over the light and slightly beneath Ban. Nikolai looks up to her.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Hang on! If you slip I'll grab you!

Ban is too busy fighting to live as the mechanical arm continues to carry her towards Nikolai. She completely loses her grip on both paws and falls towards the light. As she falls past Nikolai he grabs her and she grabs him, digging her claws into his back. He screams with pain. Ban holds onto him and dangles over the green light.

SERGEANT (COMMANDS)

Heave!

The Marines begin to pull on each other's belt, they pull Ban and Nikolai up onto the deck and away from the light. Once her boots are on solid ground, she retracts her claws and lets go of Nikolai. He falls to his knees and sighs with relief. Two Medic Techs show up in the hatch way. The Marines let go of each other, the Sergeant turns towards the hatch. The decks seal back into place and block out the green light.

SERGEANT (EXCITED)

We have an officer down here! Let's go!

The Medic Techs rush forward. Ban kneels next to Nikolai.

BAN (APOLOGETIC)

Sorry about the claws, but it's a reflex.

Ban looks at Nikolai oddly, he forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN)

It's okay. I probably wouldn't have been able to catch you if you didn't.

The Medic Techs reach Nikolai, they whip out some scanners and use them on him. He looks at them annoyed.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN, ANNOYED)

I'm not the only officer whose hurt here.

The tech keeps working on Nikolai, while the other looks around confused. Nikolai gestures to Ban, the Tech nods and starts using his scanner on her.

BAN (SARCASTIC)

You move pretty fast for a humanoid, especially a wounded one.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN)

Adrenaline, a wonderful thing.

Ban smiles.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN)

My only question is why did you try to toss yourself and Yurri into space? The Marines were here, the situation was in hand.

BAN (SMUG)

He was trying to shut off the Stat Coll. My only hope was that if I totally removed the collar from the ship so it couldn't even generate a standby signal the receivers in the Battleships wouldn't be set off. Apparently it worked.

Nikolai loses his smile.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

That was an awful risk... But had you done nothing, we'd all be dead right now. Good job.

Ban nods. The Medic Techs lower their scanners and place them on their belts.

FIRST MEDIC TECH (TO NIKOLAI)

You're going to have to go to the Center, sir.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN. SARCASTIC)

I kind of figured that.

SECOND MEDIC TECH (TO BAN)

But I can fix you here.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN)

You'll fix us both at the Center.

Ban nods.

SECOND MEDIC TECH (BLUNT)

As you wish, sir.

The Medic techs look over to the Sergeant.

FIRST MEDIC TECH (STERN)

But we're going to need some help.

The Sergeant nods to them and gestures to the two Marines standing near Nikolai. They help Nikolai to his feet. The two Marines put an arm around Nikolai's neck, he puts an arm around each Marine's neck. With the Medic Techs leading the way, the Marines help him towards the hatch. Ban follows.

INT. MINSK - MEDIC CENTER EMERGENCY ROOM

Ban and Nikolai sit on two separate tables, a Medic Tech is working on each. Nikolai's uniform as been torn away from all his wounded areas. The blood from Ban's noise has been wiped from her face. Ban's Medic Tech is using a hand scanner on her. While Nikolai's is using a small hand held laser to painlessly seal up his wounds, Ban observes. The Tech turns off the laser and step back, he smiles at Nikolai.

NIKOLAI'S MEDIC TECH (PLEASED)

There, that does it.

Another Medic Tech walks up to Nikolai's Medic Tech and shows him a scanner, he studies the display and nods. Ban's Medic Tech lowers his scanner and smiles.

BAN'S MEDIC TECH (BLUNT)

You're all set.

Ban looks at the Medic Tech and nods. He turns and walks away, she jumps off the table and onto her feet. The Medic Tech looks up from his scanner and at Nikolai.

NIKOLAI'S MEDIC TECH (PLEASED)

All scans check out, sir. You are free to go.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thanks.

The Medic Techs turn and walks over to the desk. Ban walks over to Nikolai, he jumps off the table. She gives him a puzzled look.

BAN (CONFUSED)

Why did you do it?

NIKOLAI (PUZZLED)

Do what?

BAN (CONFUSED)

Save my life.

Nikolai smiles at her.

NIKOLAI (SARCASTIC)

It needed saving.

BAN (CONFUSED)

But I'm only a Comm Officer. And a Felinion. What made me worth saving?

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

You just answered your own question.

Ban gives him a queer look.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

First of all you are ONLY a Comm Officer, but you're also a very important part of this ship. Secondly, you make it sound like being a Felinion is a disadvantage but the more I get to know you it is an advantage.

Ban looks to Nikolai and sees he is serious.

BAN (IMPRESSED)

I had you all wrong. I thought you were like all the other humanoids, but you're totally different.

The hatch opens and Codi rushes into the room, Nikolai and Ban turn towards her.

BAN (SCARED)

Uh oh.

Codi rushes up to the Medic Techs and talks to them. After a few moments, Codi turns and storms up to Nikolai and Ban.

CODI (ANNOYED)

The Medic Techs tell me you are both in fine condition... The question is for how long?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

CODI (ANGRY)

I mean going off and turning into some sort of anti-terrorist assault team! I can understand why Ban would, she has no common sense! But you, Exec! You're suppose to be an example to the rest of the crew on how to follow orders! Not break them!

BAN (EMBARRASSED)

It's not his fault, Codi. He asked what was going on down there, instead of answering I went into the Bay Room. He followed me unwittingly.

Codi looks at Nikolai.

CODI (ANGRY)

Is this true, Exec?

Nikolai hesitates, then nods slightly.

NIKOLAI (SOFTLY)

Yes.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Then I guess you are off the hook.

Codi turns towards Ban.

CODI (ANNOYED)

What is your excuse?

Ban thinks for a moment.

BAN (CAREFULLY)

Only that every time something dangerous is heading straight for us, you tell me to go to the back of the ship.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Not good enough.

BAN (ANNOYED)

How about I'm sick and tired of you protecting me. I'm a member of the Force and was exercising my right to fight for my ship?

CODI (ANGRY)

Consider yourself of report!

Ban and Nikolai look at Codi, shocked.

BAN (ANGRY)

Why you Zalic Slime wor-

CODI (INTERRUPTING, ANGRY)

Watch it Comm Officer! You're on report, any more act of insubordination and you'll find yourself working back in the Bay room!

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But-

Codi turns towards Nikolai.

CODI (INTERRUPTING, ANGRY)

Was I talking to you, Exec?

NIKOLAI (BEWILDERED)

No.

CODI (ANGRY)

Then please shut up!

NIKOLAI (BEWILDERED)

Yes ma'am.

Codi turns to Ban.

CODI (ANGRY)

Report to the bridge, Comm Officer!

BAN (ANNOYED)

Yes ma'am.

Ban turns and heads for the hatch. Codi turns back to Nikolai.

CODI (ANGRY)

I hope you have completed what you needed to because as you can see I’m not running a ship here but a nursery!

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Yes I have ma'am.

CODI (ANGRY)

Good!

Ban reaches the hatch and opens it. Codi turns and heads for the hatch as well. Nikolai doesn’t know what to think.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - MEDD SHOT

The ship speeds through space at noormal speed. Far off in the distance is a large collection of asteroids.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is at their station and moonitoring their screens, Ban is wearing a new customized headset. Nikolai enters the room and steps up to Codi, he has on a new headset.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

The Marines report that the only thing they found in the Lead Medic Tech's quarters was a Laser Light Transmitter, ma'am.

Codi rubs her chin.

CODI (REALIZING)

So that was how he was communicating without being detected. Did they mention what frequency he was transmitting on?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Unfortunately ma'am, the frequency was set in the zero position.

Codi takes her paw away from her chin.

CODI (DISAPPOINTED)

A shame, that could have come in use.

Catherine looks up to Codi.<

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

We're coming up to the asteroid cluuster, ma'am.

Codi looks to her and Nikolai takess his station.

CODI (STERN)

Steady as she goes.

Catherine nods and looks back down at her console.

IVAN (BLUNT)

The scope is clear, other than the asteroids of course. No surprise, what would live in there.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

You’d be surprised. A few miners buut mostly those avoiding the law, it makes a perfect hiding place.

BAN (BLUNT)

If any place needed a UCF base it iis here.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Yes but it is not your typical basee. There isn’t a garrison or a S-Q of battleships there, just a lot of scan devices.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

Ma’am?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

The sole purpose of the base is to scan, record and decipher anything it picks up. Whether it be coded messages, ship activity or anything else. Think of it an early warning system. If there is a lot of singular traffic that could indicate something needs to be looked into. Because of the stealth nature of the base it is well hidden. If the scoundrels that work this area knew of its location they would easily sell them out of the Democratic Legion.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

Well wouldn’t our presents tip themm off, after all. They we are easy to spot.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Not necessarily. The asteroids havee a natural interference which cuts down on scan range, also it distorts what can be scanned. A shuttle could appear as a battlecruiser and vice versa. It can hide them all together or make things that aren’t there appear that they are. It is a Gator’s nightmare.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

Tell me about it!

Codi looks to Catherine.

CODI (CONCERNED)

You saying that you can’t get us saafety to our destination?

Catherine shakes her head.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

What I’m saying it is going to get tricky in there. With our limited scan range the avoidance systems aren’t going to have a lot of time to react. All it will take is one good sized one and…

Catherine looks over to Lena, she llooks concerned. The Gator smiles.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

Don’t worry Lena, I may scratch up your baby but we’ll get there in one piece.

Lena forces a smile.

CODI (BLUNT)

Double the Quziis.

LENA (PLEASED)

Music to my ears.

Lean mumbles into her headset, Nikoolai looks around.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Everyone stay sharp.

Everyone focuses on their work.

EXT. ASTEROIDS (OPTICAL) - MED SHOTT

The Minsk is in the thick of the clluster. Small chunks of rock fly around in a random matter, those that come near the ship magically deflect away by an invisible wall. A large chuck hits the ship and penetrates deeper but it too is deflected.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

The room rocks from the deflection,, everyone keeps their eyes on their station but Lena looks around like a worried mother.

LENA (ANNOYED)

You think you can run into anythingg bigger Catherine?

CATHERINE (DEFENSIVE)

It isn’t my fault, the controls aree sluggish at this slow load.

Lena glares at Catherine.

LENA (ANNOYED)

My controls are not sluggish!

Codi glares at Lena.

CODI (STERN)

That will be quite enough Engineer Officer, she is doing her best she can… We all are.

Lena looks to Codi.

LENA (APOLOGETIC)

Sorry.

Codi ignores her and looks back to her station.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

We’re coming up to Z37.

Codi smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good.

Codi looks to Ban.

CODI (BLUNT)

Contact the base Comm Officer.

BAN (HONEST)

Actually, they have already contactted us.

Codi is confused.

CODI (CONFUSED

And you didn’t allow me to talk to them?

BAN (Explaining)

It was a one way signal, short and direct.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

The shorter the message the least llikely hood they will be detected.

Codi nods.

CODI (CONCERNED)

So what did they say?

BAN (EXPLAINING)

Pierre Bursa says he wants you to sshuttle over to the base, ma’am. When you get there he will tell you in person the important data you need to take back to Command Control.

Catherine smiles.

CATHERINE (MUTTERS)

So that is how they are going to geet her.

Everyone is too caught up in the coonversation to notice.

IVAN (CONCERNED)

Do you think that is a wise decisioon? I mean, if our big ship is having trouble in the asteroids what chance does a shuttle?

Codi smiles to Ivan.

CODI (SMUG)

I didn’t think you cared.

Ivan shrugs his shoulders and Lena looks to Ivan.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Though a shuttle doesn’t have the sstrength of our Quziis it does have a much smaller surface area, plus it is more maneuverable at slow loads. It should be able to avoid all the asteroids.

BAN (BLUNT)

The operative word is SHOULD.

CODI (BLUNT)

We all need to share the risk, Commm Officer. That includes me.

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes but you are the commander, vitaal to this ship. We should send someone more expendable like a Marine.

CODI (STERN)

No one is expendable! Besides, Pierrre will only talk to me. I have to go.

BAN (BLUNT)

Then I request permission to be youur pilot.

CODI (PLEASED)

I appreciate the offer but I’m moree than capable of piloting my own shuttle.

BAN (MUTTERING)

Why did I know she was going to sayy that?

Codi hears her but chooses to ignorre her, she gets up and looks to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

You are in charge while I’m gone Exxec.

Nikolai looks to her.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Yes ma’am.

Codi heads for the hatch and exits,, as she does Catherine has a big smile on her face. This worries Ban.

EXT. ASTEROIDS (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOOT

The Minsk slowly make her way throuugh the asteroids, it seems less are hitting the ship now.

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

Codi is here, she is about to leave when she hears three chimes play. She looks to the door.

CODI (TO DOOR)

Enter.

The hatch slides open and Nikolai steps in, it closed behind him. She smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Exec, you come to see me off.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Unfortunately I’m here to deliver some bad news.

Codi is concerned and Nikolai pauses to collect his thoughts.

Nicolai (FRUSTRATED)

I’m afraid I haven’t been quite honest with you.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Oh?

Nikolai pauses again before continuing.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

The mission on the tape you saw was not the real mission. The admiral is setting a trap for you and Peire is the bait. He wants to lure you off this ship so he can discredit you. The mission is designed so your only option is failure.

Nikolai looks to his feet in disgrace and Codi takes in all he has said.

CODI (CONFUSED)

How does he plan on discrediting me once I get out there?

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I don’t know but he was very specific, whatever Peire tells you I’m to make sure you do at any cost. He is part of this as well. So whatever you do you can’t go out there.

Codi shakes her head.

CODI (BLUNT)

I see you are now showing your true colors, Exec. You are no better than the rest.

Nikolai looks up confused.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Huh?

CODI (BLUNT)

The admiral never gave those orders. This is just some scheme you have devised to discredit me. If I don’t go out there I’ll be disobeying orders, I will be demoted and then the Minsk can all be yours.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

No, that is not true. The admiral wants you humiliated I’m just here to warn you.

CODI (STERN)

You lied when I asked you if there were orders regarding this mission other than on the tape and you said no! So then why is it now that you come forward?

Nikolai pauses to collect himself.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I planned on keeping my mouth shut but after my experience in the Bay Room, when I saw Ban in action it made me think. She put her life on the line to stop the spy, to expose the legion. This is our war yet you two are fighting it. My conscious got the better of me but the deciding factor is when I went to the ship’s chapel for advice, I was shown that if I kept my mouth shut it could cost you your career. That is not the Christian way. I can’t sit on the side lines, I have to do my part. That is why I’m here to warn you.

Codi busts out laughing.

CODI (LAUGHING)

A humanoid with a conscious? That has to be a first.

Nikolai is hurt and Codi settles down.

CODI (BLUNT)

But I know your true intensions. How you want me to fail! But it won’t work!

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

This is not a trick! If you go out there the admiral has won!

CODI (STERN)

And what proof you have of this?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I would love to show you the secret message on the tape but the admiral is very paranoid, once you view it automatically deletes itself!

CODI (STERN)

How convenient! No proof! No evidence! Why should I believe you?

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Because I care for you!

Nikolai glares at her and Codi glares back, it is a stand off. After a few moments Codi cracks a smile.

CODI (SMUG)

Let me show you something.

Codi goes over to her desk and reaches under it, Nikolai is both confused and concerned. She pulls out a tape that looks exactly like the one they had viewed. She goes over to him and tosses it over, he catches it and looks it over.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

You broke into my quarters and stole the tape!

Codi shakes her head.

CODI (STERN)

No, that is a copy.

Nikolai takes a closer look at the label and nods.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

I see that now.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Command Control wanted us to have a copy too. We found the hidden files on our copy as well.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But how did you know?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

We have had run ins with the admiral before, though unofficially. We knew he was up to something.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Surely the admiral wouldn’t have put the files on your tape too. Usually what he does is download the orders for the Command Control system and then adds the files separately, you should have gotten only the fake orders.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Yes but there was a mess up somewhere. Whether the admiral was not specific or some one got lazy and did a direct dup it does not matter. What does is that I know you are telling the truth.

Nikolai looks to her confused.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

If you knew this was a trap from the start why did you agree to take part in it?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I’m a warrior just like you, I can’t pick which missions I go on. I do as I am told regardless.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But you could have went to Command Control and exposed the admiral, told them he was working against their best interest.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

But I had no proof, just like in your case our files self erased. It was my word against his. Though I’m held in a higher regard than most Felinions they would still be forced to take his side. I would be doing what he wanted, discrediting my race.

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But if you knew the truth all along why did you put on this little act here? Why did you make me squirm first before you knowledge you knew the truth?

CODI (BLUNT)

You flat out lied to me, to your commanding officer. I have every right to do a lot worse!

Nikolai pauses to think for a moment and sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I can’t argue with you there, I betrayed your trust. That is not acceptable.

Nikolai stands at attention.

NIKOLAI (RESPECTFUL)

I will accept any punishment you degree with no questions asked Ma’am!

Codi smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

I think you learned you lesson. Besides, you will be needed at your post while I’m off the ship.

Nikolai is shocked.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Even though you know this is a trap you are still going through with this?

CODI (HONEST)

I have no choice. If I don’t I will be disobeying orders and the admiral will win. That is why I need you back here, to pull my tail out of the fire.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What about Ban?

CODI (BLUNT)

She knows nothing about this and she is not to be told, if she knew what I was about to do she would throw a fit. It is best to keep her in the dark!

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

She has every right to complain, your about to commit suicide!

CODI (BLUNT)

You don’t know that. Besides, I have no choice. They have me by the tail. I have to go.

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (SLY)

Actually, you do have an alternative. I could go in your place.

CODI (STERN)

I refuse for any member of my crew to take the risk that was meant for me!

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

But that is the beauty of it. This is a trap for a Felinion, but if I go we nullify the trap. The last thing that want is to discredit is another human, a UCF officer to boot. We’ll send them scurrying with their tails between their legs.

Codi rubs her chin and thinks.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

Yes, I could see how that would work.

Nikolai smiles but Codi frowns.

CODI (BLUNT)

The only problem is I will be disobeying orders. I’m suppose to go not you. Also, they could twist this around to make Felinions as cowards and Humanoids as heroes. This would be worse as if I didn’t go.

NIKOLAI (PROTESTING)

But-

CODI

(STERN, INTERRUPTING)

No buts about it! I’m going! This discussion is at an end!

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

There is no way I can’t talk you out of this?

CODI (DETERMINED)

No!

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (APOLOGETIC)

Then you leave me no choice.

Codi is confused. That is until he grabs her headset from her head and takes it. Before she knows what is going on he hauls of and decks her, she reel back and falls on her butt. She looks up and glares at him.

CODI (ANNOYED)

What is the meaning of this?

NIKOLAI

(APOLOGETIC)

I’m sorry, I’m really sorry but I can’t let you risk this.

She gets and extends her claws, she takes a defensive stance.

CODI (STERN)

It is going to take more than a simple punch to stop me!

Codi hisses at him but Nikolai is already racing for the hatch, but the time she realize what he is doing he has already opened. She races at him, he darts out the door.

NIKOLAI (TO DOOR, EXCITED)

Hatch command! Activate security lock COMMANDER ONE NINER! Authorization Nikolai Solace!

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Authorization recognized and authenticated. Initiating security lock COMMANDER 1-9.

As she reaches the door it slides shut. She frantically presses on the button to open it but it just beeps in protest.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

A security lock has been activated. Please identify.

Codi glares at the door.

CODI (TO DOOR, ANNOYED)

This is Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea. Override security lock COMMANDER ONE NINER!

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Voice recognized and authenticated. I’m sorry but you do not have authorization to alter this security lock.

CODI (TO DOOR, ANNOYED)

But I’m commander!

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

I’m sorry but the security lock is not rank specific.

CODI (ANGRY)

SOLACE!!!

Codi begins to bang on the door but it does not alter the situation.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

The room has been cleaned up. The boarding ramp is down on one of the shuttles. A Deck Hand walks down the ramp and across the room. Another Deck Hand starts to use the control panel for the mechanical arm. The arm in the ceiling moves towards the shuttle and magnetically connects to the roof of the ship. The shuttle is lifted and moved into the center of the room, it is then lowered onto the raised decks. The arm detaches itself from the ship and moves back into position above. The hatch to the Bay Room opens, Nikolai races into the room. The hatch closes behind him. He runs towards the shuttle, a Deck Hand steps out of the ship and down the ramp. He spots Nikolai.

DECK HAND

(PROUD)

She's checked out and ready to go, sir.

Nikolai reaches the ship.

NIKOLAI (OUT OF BREATH, URGENT)

I want the shuttle released as soon as I’m on board! No preflight!

Nikolai races inside and the ramp begins to go up, the Deck Hand looks to him.

DECK HAND (CONFUSED)

Sir?

NIKOLAI (OUT OF BREATH, STERN)

We’re behind schedule! You have your orders!

DECK HAND (CONFUSED)

Yes sir.

The hatch to the shuttle closes and ramp folds up, the Deck Hand scratches his head.

DECK HAND (CONFUSED)

I didn’t know we were on a schedule.

He shrugs his shoulder and waves over to another Deck Hand, that one starts to work some controls and the decks begin to lower the shuttle through the light.

EXT. UNDERNEATH MINSK (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The ship continues through the asteroids. The landing decks under the ship are lowered. The top deck is folded up but the bottom deck is locked down into position and has the shuttle on it. The lower deck folds down and the shuttle float free. The engines on the shuttle fire, the shuttle slowly moves towards the front of the Minsk and away.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is in position. Nikolai's station is empty. The hatch opens and Codi races in, she is not winded at all. She races up to the group and looks to Ivan.

CODI (EXCITED)

Have any vessels left the ship recently?

Ivan nods.

IVAN (HONEST)

Yes, a shuttle just left!

CODI (ANNOYED)

You allowed it to leave without my authorization?

IVAN (EXPLAINING)

The Exec authorized it, that is more than enough clearance. We thought you were on it.

Codi looks to Ban.

CODI (URGENT)

Get me in contact with that shuttle!

BAN (CONFUSED)

Is there a problem?

CODI (ANNOYED)

Just do as you are told!

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes commander.

Codi mumbles into her headset and everyone stops what they are doing, she notices this.

CODI (STERN)

Everyone get back to work!

Everyone does as they are told, Ban looks to Codi.

BAN (APOLOGETIC)

I’m sorry to report commander that I have an indication that the shuttle’s signaler has been turned off. We can’t reach them.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Carbon Deposits!

LENA (CONFUSED)

Is there something going on that we should know about?

Codi looks around to the group, they all look concerned. She sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

You might as well know. The Exec tricked me and locked me in my own quarters. If I didn’t remember a reference to a security lock in Trotsky’s log I’d still be in there.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

Why would he do that?

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

So he could go to Z37 instead of me.

CATHERINE (SHOCKED)

But he is flying right into a trap!

Codi glares at Catherine.

CODI (STERN)

Yes Gator, I know that!

Catherine is taken aback.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

But this will ruin his career!

CODI (ANNOYED)

Trust me Gator, when I get my claws in him that will be the least of his problems!

IVAN (CONFUSED)

But why is he doing this?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

The fool wants to save my career!

Ban pauses to think and then smile.

BAN (MUTTERS)

We’ll make a Felinion out of you yet Nikolai.

Codi glares at her.

CODI (STERN)

This is no laughing matter Comm Officer!

Ban nods.

BAN (REPENT)

Yes, of course.

CATHERINE (FRANTIC)

We have to do something to save him!

Codi looks around the room.

CODI (BLUNT)

I’m open for suggestions.

IVAN (OFFERING)

We would launch battleships.

Lena shakes her head.

LENA (BLUNT)

I would advise against that. While they would have advantage of being small like the shuttle they are designed to run at a higher load, they would lose considerable maneuverability running that slow.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Besides, even if we could launch them what could they do? All they have are offensive weapons. I may be angry at the Exec but I’m not as anger to order them to blast them out of the stars.

CATHERINE (EXCITED)

What about a tractor beam? We could use it to pull him back in.

Codi looks to Lena and she sees this.

LENA (HONEST)

It would be difficult to hold a lock with all this interference and all the loose chunks floating around, but it could work.

CODI (STERN)

Then let’s do it!

Everyone goes to work, they show a look of urgency all but Catherine. She is genually concerned.

EXT. ASTEROID CLUSTER (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The Minsk is in pursuit of the shuttle but the smaller craft is out distancing itself as it weaves around the chunks of rock.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

This is a small cockpit full of all sorts of buttons, switches and knobs. Out the front window the asteroids can be seen. Nikolai is in the pilot's chair, he is all alone. He is working the controls. Suddenly, a Legion sloop comes around a large asteroid headed right for him. The ship is half the size as the Minsk and has no fighter bays and a few guns. “DEMOCRATIC LEGION” is marked on the side of the ship. Below is “UNITED COMMUNISTIC FORCE” which is scratched out and barely readable. Below that is a large silhouette of England which has a giant skull and cross bones in it. Also scratched out are the words “THAMES” which have been replaced with “COMMIE STALKER” At the sight of her Nikolai gasps.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Sepcor!

Nikolai quickly work the controls

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

It is as it was before, Lena looks to Codi.

LENA (BLUNT)

Tractor is primed and ready.

CODI (STERN)

Then get a lock and activate.

LENA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

But before Lena can go to work Ivan’s eyes widen.

IVAN (EXCITED)

I have a sloop class ship dead ahead!

CODI (QUICKLY)

Give me a medium scan of that ship!

IVAN (EXCITED)

Yes ma'am!

Ivan begins to mumble into his headset. Codi looks at one of her screens.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Selection. Change. Parameter. Station status. Input. Yellow. Output. Audio.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Selection valid. Parameter valid. Input Valid. Output valid. Are you sure you want to change station status from Green to Yellow?

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

Yes.

COMPUTER (COMPUTERIZED VOICE).

Processing.

MINSKIAN CONTROL (OVER LOUD SPEAKERS)

Alert! Alert! All stations to yellow status! All stations to yellow status! All defensive grids come on-line! All defensive grids come on-line! Alert! Alert!

A siren sound. The large lights on all of the stations changes from green to yellow and begin to slowly flash. Ivan looks up to Codi.

IVAN (EXCITED)

Medium scan complete! The ship is a Legion! She's lightly armed with the standard rig, only lasers. But its weapons are powering up and has two layers of Quziis, her maximum compliment!

CODI (STERN)

Designate that sloop as Adversary Alpha!

IVAN (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Ivan mumbles into his headset.

LENA (SMUG)

She is no match for us.

IVAN (STERN)

But she is overwhelming to the shuttle! She is heading right for it!

Codi looks at Ban.

CODI (URGENT)

Try and raise the shuttle again!

BAN (BLUNT)

No need to, they are contacting us.

CODI (URGENT)

Tell Nikolai to head for us, we’ll distract the enemy.

BAN (BLUNT)

He has already read your mind!

The hatch opens and a Marine with a side arm rushes in, he takes his position next to the hatch.

EXT. COMMIE STALKER (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The ship is headed right at the shuttle which is speeding towards the Minsk.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone one is busy at work.

MINSKIAN CONTROL (OVER LOUD SPEAKERS)

Alert! Alert! All stations to red status. All stations to red status. All offensive stations on-line. All offensive stations on-line. Alert! Alert!

A siren sounds. The large yellow light on each station changes to red and starts flashing quickly. Ivan turns towards Codi.

IVAN (BLUNT)

It's going for the shuttle! It is staying ahead but just barely.

CATHERINE (EXCITED)

Let’s launch the battleships!

LENA

(HONEST)

I’d advise against that for reasons I stated before. We’re going to have a hard enough time fighting a battle in here!

CATHERINE (EXCITED)

Well we have to do something!

CODI (BLUNT)

That is exactly what I plan on!

Codi looks to Lena.

CODI (BLUNT)

Fire a shot over her bow!

LENA (CONFUSED)

Over her bow? We could take her out under five MiniYerks.

CODI (STERN)

The last thing I want right now is a shooting match, the Exec is smack in the middle! I just want to ward her off!

Lena nods.

LENA (BLUNT)

Good point.

Lena goes to work.

EXT. MINSK (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

As the Commie Stalker and shuttle head towards the Minsk a single shot fires from her and whizzes dangerously close to the Legion ship, it does not back down. A tractor beam fires from underneath the sloop and hits the shuttle, the shuttle is stopped dead and pulled towards it.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is busy at work.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Alpha has snagged the shuttle with a tractor beam!

LENA (BLUNT)

A shuttle is no match with that!

CODI (STERN)

Then take out that tractor!

Lena shakes her head.

LENA (HONEST)

No can do, not at this angle. The shuttle is right in the path.

CATHERINE (FRANTIC)

And I can’t maneuver around in these asteroids!

CODI (CONFUSED)

They are going after the shuttle?

BAN (EXPLAINS)

That must have been the plan all along. You are suppose to be in the shuttle. They sold you out to the Legion! This way Perice and the UCF can’t be implicated. It will be written off as bad luck.

CODI (BLUNT)

More like Felinion stupidity.

BAN (BLUNT)

Either way Nikolai is finished!

CATHERINE (FRANTIC)

Please do something! Anything!

Codi pauses and then nods.

CODI (AGREEING)

Yes, target a part of Alpha. I don’t care which as long as it is something not in the line of the shuttle. Hit it hard, show them what the consequences are going to be if they proceed!

Lena smiles.

LENA (SMUG)

My pleasure!

Lena starts mumbling into her headset. Suddenly, all the power goes off. Everyone is left is total darkness. There is panic for a moment then things calm down. After a few moments emergency light kick in, the screens are lit at a bare minimum. Everyone looks around confused.

LENA (BLUNT)

All offensive systems are down and some of the defenses!

CATHERINE (EXCITED)

I’ve lost control due to lack of power!

IVAN (BLUNT)

I have only the secondary systems!

BAN (BLUNT)

The comm. Systems seems intact.

Panic resurfaces.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

Did we have a surge?

BAN (CONFUSED)

Did we have a back feed?

CODI (STERN)

I want answers not speculation!

Everyone works their controls the best they can. Suddenly, the room rocks violently.

IVAN (URGENT)

Were talking a pounding from the asteroids!

CODI (STERN)

See if you can’t divert all available power to the Quziis!

Everyone works their station and after a few moments the room stops shaking.

IVAN (RELIVED)

That did it.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Looks like we have a major failure in the main power conduit, only 7% of the power is getting through.

CODI (BLUNT)

That is serious.

LENA (BLUNT)

What is impossible!

IVAN (BLUNT)

We know you take good care of the ship, Lena. But mistakes do happen.

LENA (STERN)

You don’t understand, because the conduit is the life blood of the ship it is designed to never fail. When it does it is always 100%, all or nothing.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Then how can you account for this?

Lena rechecks her controls.

LENA (BLUNT)

From what I can tell there is a depleter in the conduit.

BAN (CONFUSED)

Depleter?

LENA (EXPLAINING)

It is a device that saps power and redirects it.

CODI (CONFUSED)

To where?

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Anywhere it is programmed to. To other systems, to itself to process other function or even into the air so it is unusable. What is important that this is not a natural failure, we have been sabotaged!

IVAN (CONFUSED)

We have another spy on board?

CATHERINE (EXPLAINING)

More likely this was set up by Yurri before he left.

LENA (BLUNT)

Well I can’t do anything up here, permission to go to the source ma’am.

CODI (BLUNT)

Permission granted!

Lena gets back to her feet and rushes out, everyone continues to work.

EXT. COMMIE STALKER (OPTICAL) - MED. SHIP

The ship pulls the shuttle underneath and into the bay.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

As it was before, Ivan looks to Codi.

IVAN (EXCITED)

I’m sorry to report that the shuttle has been taken aboard Adversary Alpha!

CATHERINE (FRANTIC)

No!

Codi opens her mouth to speak.

BAN (BLUNT)

Advisory Alpha is trying to contact you, ma'am. They are asking for you by name.

Codi hesitates for a moment, then looks at Ban.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Path the Communication through.

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Ban turns to her screen and mumbles into her headset. The hatch opens and the other Marine with the laser rifle walks in and takes his place next to the first. The hatch closes.

VOICE (OVER HEADSET)

I'm trying to get a hold of Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea.

Codi looks at one of her screens.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

This is Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea to unidentified ship. Go ahead.

William Henderson appears on one of Codi's screens, he is dressed up as a Legion commander. He is at a terminal in the Bay Room aboard the Commie Stalker. Behind him is the familiar green light, a tractor beam is raising the shuttle up through the light.

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

I’m commander William Henderson of the Legion sloop Commie Stalker. I’m just coming to the add of a poor UCF ship.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, DEFIANT)

We don’t need your help!

William laughs.

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET, LAUGHING)

Really commander, our scans indicate that your power output has been reduced by 93%.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, ANNOYED)

Scans can’t be that accurate with this interference!

William settles down.

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Okay, you got me there. I knew that because that is the exact level your ship needs to starve off those nasty asteroids that are pounding against your hull but nothing else. A little something that our spy arranged, but then you already knew that.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, DEFIANT)

You arranged this so our ship could be easily boarded! So you can steal more technology for the legion!

William shakes his head.

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Though that would boost my career I hardly think your crew would let us just waltz right in, they would go down in a fight no matter how futile that fight is. Why waste troops in that matter?

CODI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

Then what is it you want?

William points behind him to the shuttle.

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET)

As you can see we have your shuttle, the shuttle you were suppose to be in. But from your Comms we have learned you have sent your Exec in your place. The only thing worse than a Felinion is a coward Felinion. But I must use what cards I’m dealt.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What is your game?

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

You will find out soon enough.

William laughs and Codi's screen goes dark. She stares at it for a few seconds and then slams her fist down.

CODI (ANNOYED)

If we only had power!

Everyone looks to her, they want to give some kind of reassurance but there is none.

EXT. ASTEROIDS (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Minsk is dead in the water, the Commie Stalker is stopped as well. They are nose to nose.

INT. MINSK – POWER CONDUIT

This is a long hallway that has energy flowing in mid air through it, in the middle is a large ball of energy that is black. To one side the entire corridor if filled with free flowing energy, on the other side it only trickles out. The black ball is sapping most of the energy. Set into one side of the wall is a large window, Lena and another tech is peering through it. She is talking into her headset.

LENA (INTO HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

It is as I feared Commander, they have set up a Depleter. It is sapping most of the energy meant for the rest of the ship.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, STERN)

Then get rid of it!

LENA (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

I wish I could. It would be tricky enough working in the path of live power but they have set up the depleter with a Quzii field, we can’t get near it as long as the power flows.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, STERN)

Then cut the power form the source, the field should drop allowing you to remove the depleter.

LENA (INTO HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

It is not as easy as flipping a switch, there are systems and sub systems I would have to tamper with. And even after that with no place to go the energy would build and build until it was too much to contain and explode. No, who ever did this knew what they were doing. We’re stuck.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, STERN)

You may be ready to give up but I am not! Especially when the Exec is in the paws of the Legion! Find a way around this or I’ll replace you with someone who can! Do I make myself clear?

LENA (INTO HEADSET, ANNOYED)

Perfectly clear.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, STERN)

Bridge out!

The line goes dead.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Oxidation Commanders!

Lena stares at the depleter and ponders her next move.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

As it was before, Ban looks to Codi.

BAN (BLUNT)

Adversary Alpha is trying to get a hold of you, ma'am.

Codi hesitates and then turns towards Ban.

CODI (STERN)

Let it through to me.

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Ban mumbles into her headset. Codi looks down at one of her monitors, William appears on it. He is on the bridge of the Commie Stalker.

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET)

I’m back. Did you miss me?

CODI (INTO HEADSET, ANNOYED)

Just get to the point!

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET, LAUGHING)

My point is simple, despite your cowardess we will continue as planned. Your Exec will take the place of you.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, CONFUSED)

Take my place? For what?

The guards drag Nikolai up next to him, William turns towards him.

WILLIAM (OVER HEADSET)

This is what would have happened to you if you were aboard.

William nods to the guards, one of them twists Nikolai's arms behind his back. The other guard holds Nikolai's other arm out with hand paw and uses his other arm to drive it onto Nikolai's, the impact breaks Nikolai's arm. He screams in pain.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - BRIDGE

This room is similar to the one on the Minsk, except that all the stations are facing away from the Command Station and it is not built on a platform. Every station is manned by a variety of humans in UCF uniforms and wearing headsets, except the Command Station (which is empty). The most notable is the one at the Exec Station, Brenda Dover. Brenda is a female dressed like the others. At the front of the room is a large screen similar to the one in the Bay Room, the image of Codi is on it. Next to the screen is William, Nikolai and the guards. She appears horrified.

WILLIAM (INTO HEADSET)

What do you say now?

CODI (OVER HEADSET, ANGRY)

Why did you do that for?

WILLIAM

(INTO HEADSET)

Because I can!

William nods. The guards stretch Nikolai's other arm and they break it in the same fashion. Nikolai screams in pain. The guards let go of him and Nikolai falls to his knees, moaning with pain.

CATHERINE (OVER HEADSET, FRANTIC)

Please stop!

CODI (OVER HEADSET, ANGRY)

You didn't have to do that!

WILLIAM (EXCITED)

But I do, that is what we are getting paid for!

William smiles and nods again. One of the guards pushes Nikolai on his stomach, he grabs one of his legs and holds it up.

CATHERINE (INTO HEADSET, PLEADING)

No! Wait!

The other guard thrust his foot into Nikolai's leg, they breaks it. Nikolai screams in pain, the guard let the leg fall to the deck.

WILLIAM (INTO HEADSET)

Now what do have to say?

Codi stares at William, infuriated.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, ANGRY)

Never in all my life have I've seen much mindless brutality!

WILLIAM (INTO HEADSET)

That is not what I wanted to hear.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, PLEADING)

For Kazan's sake! He is an innocent bystander! I’m suppose to be the one there!

William nods. A guard picks up Nikolai's other leg and hold it up.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, ANGRY)

May Kazan pay you back for everything you've done here!

WILLIAM (INTO HEADSET, ANNOYED)

Kazan is your God. Not mine.

The other guard breaks Nikolai's leg with his foot, he screams in pain. Codi screams some insults at William in Felinion and then the screen goes blank.

COMM OFFICER (BLUNT)

They broke the Communication Line, sir.

WILLIAM (SARCASTIC)

What a shame. It was just getting interesting.

The guard lets go of Nikolai's leg. He curls up into a ball and moans with pain.

GUARD ONE (ANNOYED)

And I was looking forward to breaking some of his ribs.

GUARD TWO (ANXIOUS)

Can we do it anyway?

WILLIAM (SMUG)

Don't worry. You'll have time for that later. We'll just let them stew for a while.

The guards and William look down at Nikolai, he continues to moan with pain. Everyone smiles.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Codi stares at her blank screen in horror. Everyone looks up to her, waiting.

CODI (INFURIATED)

Those Spqdorans! They will pay dearly for this! I give you my word!

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes. But what are we going to do now?

CODI (CONFUSED)

Yes... What to do?

Codi thinks. Ban looks to her.

BAN (BLUNT)

The engineer Officer is trying to contact you.

CODI (BLUNT)

Send her over, maybe she has some good news for us.

Ban mumbles into her headset.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

Talk to me!

LENA (OVER HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

I think I’ve figured a way to restore power.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

Spit it out!

LENA (OVER HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

The depleter is round while the conduit is square, because of this some energy is allowed to sneak by. The walls of the conduit are insulated so the power can’t pass through. We have figured a way to disable the insulation field for the walls inside the conduit but not outside so the energy will still be contained.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, CONFUSED)

How can this help us?

LENA (OVER HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

We use the conduit walls like a cable, it will be able to work its way around the depleter. We estimate this will free up to 74% of the energy.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

It sound great but I have a feeling there is a catch.

LENA (OVER HEADSET, BLUNT)

There are a few. First of all, the walls were designed to insulate the power, not act as a conductor so were are going to have some fluxuation and it may even contaminate the energy. This could be passed onto other systems making them unreliable. Also, we will be weakening the insulation, there is a chance the outer wall may fail, we’ll have raw energy flying all over the place. Not a good thing.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, CURIOUS)

What is your estimate chance of success?

LENA (OVER HEADSET, BLUNT)

53%.

Codi pauses to think.

CODI INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

Well even if it was 1% I’d still give it a go. After what I just witnessed up here it is better to have tried and failed than to sit here and do nothing.

LENA (OVER HEADSET, CONFUSED)

Commander?

Codi sighs.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

I’m giving you the green light!

LENA (OVER HEADSET, PLEASED)

We’ll get started right away.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

Bridge out.

Line goes dead, Codi looks around the room.

CODI (CURIOUS)

What would be the best way to disable a ship?

IVAN (BLUNT)

Well almost all ships have two main Power Planets, one on top and one on the bottom. Incase a natural or unnatural force should hit the ship odds are good at least one Power Planet can survive. So the best way would be to out right destroy one of the Power Planets cutting that ships laser power, Quziis and maneuvering ability in half. Then use your low intensity lasers to knock out, not destroy, the remaining Power Planet off-line. The ship is left virtually defenseless. But once boarded the Power Planet can be brought back on-line. This is a lot harder than it sounds since most ships shield their Power Planets and use all layers of their Quziis in close quarters.

CODI (SMUG)

But Advisory Alpha has only two layers of Quziis. Making this possible.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Yes.

CODI (EXCITED)

Then that is what we are going to do as soon as power is restored.

BAN (BLUNT))

If our intentions are to disable Advisory Alpha. Then may I suggest an assault force to rescue the Exec?

Codi turns towards Ban, Codi thinks for a moment.

CODI (STERN)

Yes. Notify the Sergeant to prepare for such a mission.

BAN (BLUNT)

May I request to lead the force?

CODI (ANNOYED)

Absolutely not.

BAN (EXCITED)

I owe the Exec my life!

CODI (ANGRY)

This is no time to repay old debts! Request denied!

BAN (STERN)

With all due respect. When it comes to close quarter combat Felinions can out do Humanoids in all aspects. The Exec would have a better chance if a Felinion was leading the way.

Codi coldly stares at Ban, she stares equally cold back. Codi sighs.

CODI (DISAPPOINTED)

All right.

Ban smiles.

BAN (EXCITED)

Thank you Codi!

CODI (STERN)

But I want you in full battle armor.

BAN (EXCITED)

Yes! Of course!

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

In that case I’d like to-

CODI (STERN)

Request denied!

CATHERINE (PROTESTING)

But why?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I know Nikolai means a lot to you but I need someone who can follow orders, not their emotions.

Catherine is hurt and Codi sees this.

CODI (REASSURING)

Besides, once we get power restored I need someone to that can get us in nice and close. That someone is you. We’re all depending on you.

Catherine forces a smile, Codi looks to Ban.

CODI (PLEASED)

You'd better get going.

Ban jumps to her feet and races for the hatch, another crew member takes her place.

INT. MINSK – POWER CONDUIT

Lena is programming a hand held computer, she finishes. Then she looks to the tech and he looks as nervous as her.

LENA (INTO HEADSET, UNEASY)

We’re all set, Commander.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, STERN)

No time to mess around, cut it over now!

LENA (INTO HEADSET, UNEASY)

Yes ma’am.

Lena takes a deep breath and presses a button on the computer, the power fluxuates in the conduit. It surges and dies repeatedly. The curiosity gets the best of Lena, she peers into the window. She sees the black ball is shrinking. At the same time energy surges into the walls and flows freely on the other side, this makes her smile.

LENA (EXCITED)

It’s working Commander! It’s-

Suddenly a bolt leaps threw the wall and into Lena, the force send s her sailing. In the process her headset and computer explode. The tech rushes over to her and turns her on her back, her entire body is smoking. She tries to wake her up but she lies motionless.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

The power fluxuates on and off for a few seconds, then it stays on. All the instruments are back to normal.

IVAN (EXCITED)

I have full power!

CATHERINE (EXCITED)

Everything has been restored!

Everyone but Codi cheers.

CODI (STERN)

No time to celebrate, it is time to dish back some of the deposits we have been taking!

Everyone goes back to work.

EXT. MINSK NEAR VICE SIRIUS (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

The ship open fires, they breach the Quziis of the Commie Stalker’s. They concentrate on the same spot and there is a large explosion on the top of the ship and the Power Planet is destroyed. The Commie Stalker shakes slightly. Two Missiles Projectors on the front of the Minsk come to life and fire Light-Missiles (similar to Light-Explosives but longer and larger) and head towards the Commie Stalker’s thrusters.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - BRIDGE

Everyone looks dazed. The lights flicker and alarm buzzers sound. William and his guards pull themselves from off the floor. Nikolai is oblivious to anything happening around him.

WILLIAM (CONFUSED)

What was that?

Some of the crew regain themselves and check their screens.

SENSOR OFFICER (UNSURE)

The Minsk firing on us.

BRENDA (SMUG)

But that is impossible! They have no power!

SENSOR OFFICER (AFRAID)

Well scans indicate otherwise!

WILLIAM (ANNOYED)

Damage report.

ENGINEER OFFICER (EXCITED)

The upper power station is gone!

WILLIAM (SARCASTIC)

I expected as much from the force of that explosion.

SENSOR OFFICER (EXCITED)

I have two incoming targets to aft! Closing quickly! Probable Light-Missiles!

BRENDA (EXCITED)

Hard to port! Full load! Lock all reserve power to aft section!

The Gator and Engineer goes to work.

EXT. COMMIE STALKER NEAR MINSK (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The missiles are about to hit the thrusters of the ship. The sloop begins to speed up and turns sharply. All of the rear lasers on the Minsk open fire, they beach the Quziis protecting the ship's thrusters. The missiles are able to pass through the Quziis and hit the Commie Stalker’s thrusters. They explode the ship shakes violently as there are several smaller explosion at the aft of the Commie Stalker.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - BRIDGE

The ship continues to shake violently from the direct hit. William and the guards struggle to stand. Everyone else is trying to stay seated and working desperately at their stations. The shaking quickly subsides.

BRENDA (EXCITED)

Damage report!

The Engineer Officer studies his screen.

ENGINEER OFFICER (SHOCKED)

The Ultra-Light thruster is totally destroyed! 91% of our thrusters have been either knocked off-line or destroyed.

Brenda turns to the Gator.

BRENDA (EXCITED)

Gator! Use what maneuvering power to get us out of here!

SENSOR OFFICER (EXCITED)

They're coming around!

BRENDA (EXCITED)

Have all batteries commence fire! Now!!!

EXT. COMMIE STALKER NEAR MINSK (OPTICAL)

The ship turns very slowly towards the Minsk. While the Minsk quickly turns towards the ship. The sloop begins to fire on the Minsk, but her Quziis easily absorb the Commie Stalker's lasers. The Minsk slips under the ship and open fires on the bottom Power Planet. The Quziis are quickly breached and the lasers keep firing. There are a few small explosions around the Power Planet. The commie Stalker shakes violently.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - BRIDGE

Everyone is busy working at their stations while William and his guards look around the room. The lights flash on and off, then all the power goes out. After several long moments, some power returns to the stations. Dim emergency lighting in the ceiling clicks on.

WILLIAM (SARCASTIC)

Don't tell me. They got the lower power station.

The Engineer Officer strains to see his dimly lit screen.

ENGINEER OFFICER (BLUNT)

Yes. It's been completely knocked off-line. We barely have enough power for a single layer of Quziis, just enough to hold of the asteroids but I don’t know how long that will last! We're finished!

Brenda glares at the Engineer.

BRENDA (ANGRY)

We're Legion! We are never finished!

WILLIAM (STERN)

We are now. Give the word to abandon ship.

Brenda turns to William.

BRENDA (EXCITED)

Legion abandon ship? Never!

WILLIAM (ANNOYED)

I'm in charge here!

Brenda points an angry finger at William.

BRENDA (ANGRY)

You are a disgrace to legion everywhere!

The guards watch Brenda carefully, ready to pounce.

WILLIAM (ANNOYED)

And give the order to self destruct.

A smile cracks across Brenda's face.

BRENDA (THINKING)

Perhaps you aren't.

ENGINEER OFFICER (BLUNT)

How much of a delay do you want?

WILLIAM (BLUNT)

Never mind, I'll take care of that. Just get the process started.

The Engineer begins to whisper into his headset.

BRENDA (CONFUSED)

You make it sound like you plan on being here a while.

WILLIAM (DISAPPOINTED)

You're correct. I'm going down with my ship.

BRENDA (EXCITED)

What!

ENGINEER OFFICER (EXCITED)

That's insane!

SENSOR OFFICER (EXCITED)

Impossible!

WILLIAM (STERN)

Just do as I've ordered.

The Exec Officer stares at William for a few moments, then nods.

INT. MINSK BRIDGE

Ivan is talking to Codi.

IVAN (BLUNT)

And both Power Planets are out. The entire ship is running on emergency power. All weapon systems are drained. Quziis are at a minimum.

CODI (COLDLY)

Keep a close eye on them. This isn't over yet.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Ivan turns back and begins to study his screen. Codi looks down to the Comm Officer.

CODI (COLD)

Tell the Bay Room to launch the shuttle.

COMM OFFICER (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

The Comm Officer begins mumbling into his headset. Codi glances over to Catherine.

CODI (STERN)

Begin to circle the ship, Gator.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

Yes ma'am.

Codi smiles and looks around the room.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good work everyone.

Everyone is too busy to pat themselves on the back.

EXT. COMMIE STALKER NEAR MINSK (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

The ship floats through space and is totally disabled. The Minsk begins to circle the ship. A shuttle lowers from the Landing Decks of the corvette. The Assault Shuttle is a leaner meaner looking craft: The boarding ramp has been removed (and a strange apparatus surrounds the hatch), some missiles are mounted on the roof of the ship and some lasers have been added to the front. The deck beneath the ship folds away, it speeds forward and towards the Commie Stalker.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - BRIDGE

Everyone has left except for William, Brenda and the guards. Nikolai is still laying on the floor moaning with pain, but is a little more aware of what is going on around him. The Legion are gathered around him.

BRENDA (BLUNT)

All systems set.

WILLIAM (PLEASED)

Excellent.

BRENDA (CONCERNED)

Are you sure you won't leave with the others?

WILLIAM (DISAPPOINTED)

No. I've failed the Legion and disgraced my people.

BRENDA (ENCOURAGING)

You just made a miscalculation.

WILLIAM (DISAPPOINTED)

It is the same thing. I am as good as dead when the Legion hears about this. This way it will be less painful.

BRENDA (EXCITED)

But I know the crew will back you up!

William looks sternly at Brenda.

WILLIAM (FRANKLY)

Do you REALLY think that?

William stares into Brenda's eyes. She shakes her head after a few moments. She finally looks at Nikolai.

BRENDA (CONFUSED)

What about him?

William smiles.

WILLIAM (PLEASED)

Leave him to me. It will be my last pleasure in life.

William looks down at Nikolai.

WILLIAM (DISAPPOINTED)

You may go Brenda, you have served me well.

BRENDA (EXCITED)

I can't leave! My place is next to you!

WILLIAM (ANNOYED)

Of course you can. I'm ordering it.

BRENDA (EXCITED)

You can't order me to do such a thing!

WILLIAM (ANGRY)

Please! Go! I need someone to defend my name after I'm gone!

Brenda hesitates.

BRENDA (DISAPPOINTED)

Very well.

Brenda turns and heads for the hatch.

GUARD ONE (SCARED)

What about us?

WILLIAM (ANNOYED)

You are my personal guards. You must stay and face the same fate as I.

GUARD TWO (FRIGHTEN)

Of course.

Brenda reaches the hatch, stops and turns towards William.

BRENDA (PLEASED)

It has been a great honor serving you.

William nods.

WILLIAM (DISAPPOINTED)

Farewell.

BRENDA (SAD)

Farewell.

Brenda turns, opens the hatch and exits. William continues to look at Nikolai. The guards shake with fear.

EXT. COMMIE STALKER NEAR MINSK (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

The ship is still dead in space. The Minsk continues to circle around it. As the Assault Shuttle nears it escape pods begin to launch from the sloop.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is checking their screens. Ivan turns towards Codi.

IVAN (EXCITED)

Ma'am. Advisory Alpha is launching escape pods.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Escape pods. That is cowardly even for the Legion.

Codi thinks for moment.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Are there life readings inside them?

Ivan turns back to his station and checks his instruments.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Affirmative. And they have human Life Form Outputs.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Strange. Usually they would have fought to the last Legion.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

Well this isn't an usual situation.

CODI (UNSURE)

True. But they didn't even self destruct it.

COMM OFFICER (CONFUSED)

How could they? Their major Power Planets were knocked out.

CODI

(CONFUSED)

Isn't there another way?

IVAN (BLUNT)

Sure. But you'd have to have explosives scattered all over the ship.

Codi's eyes widen, she quickly turns to Ivan.

CODI (EXCITED)

Check for this, Sensor Officer.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Ivan mumbles into his headset and scans his screen.

IVAN (BLUNT)

No. I'm not picking up any mass quantities of any known explosives.

Ivan hesitates.

IVAN (SURPRISED)

But I'm picking up mass quantities of Hydrogenoxide Floureen, it spread throughout the ship.

CODI (EXCITED)

The entire ship?

IVAN (SURPRISED)

Yes ma'am.

LENA (CONFUSED)

Why would they place a self destruct system in their ship if the odds started so much in their favor?

CODI (EXCITED)

It doesn't matter. What does is that we have to recall the shuttle. Do it Comm Officer.

COMM OFFICER (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

CATHERINE (CONCERNED)

What about Nikolai?

Codi sighs.

CODI (BLUNT)

He is already dead.

Catherine fights back the tears while the Comm Officer begins to mumble into her headset.

INT. ASSAULT SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

Two Marines wearing chest armor and riot helmets are seated in the pilot and co-pilot seats. Ban is standing behind them and looking out the windows. She is wearing the same gear as the Marines minus the helmet, but she has a laser rifle slug over her shoulder. Out of the window the Commie Stalker can be seen. Ban spots the escape pods launching from the ship. She turns towards the co-pilot.

BAN (STERN)

Turn off the Signalers.

The Co-Pilots turns and looks back towards Ban.

CO-PILOT (CONFUSED)

That's not part of normal operating procedures.

BAN (SARCASTIC)

You think this is a normal operation? We're dealing with the Legion here.

CO-PILOT (CONCERNED)

But what if the Minsk needs to get a hold of us?

BAN (ANNOYED)

For what?

The Co-Pilot opens his mouth.

BAN (ANGRY)

I'm in charge of this operation! I order you to turn off the signalers! Now!

The Co-Pilot glances towards the Pilot, he nods slightly. The Co-Pilot flips a few switches.

CO-PILOT (BLUNT)

Okay, they're off.

BAN (ANNOYED)

You mean they're off, ma'am.

CO-PILOT (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Ban turns towards the pilot.

BAN (STERN)

See if you can't find a hatch in the front near the bridge. That is where the Exec Officer is.

PILOT (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

The pilot flies the ship as the Co-Pilot sulks.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

The Comm officer is talking into her headset.

COMM OFFICER (INTO HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

You are to return to the Minsk at once. Advisory Alpha is planning to self destruct. Please knowledge.

There is no reply.

COMM OFFICER (INTO HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

Repeating. This is th-

CODI (INTERRUPTING)

No luck?

The Comm Officer looks up to Codi.

COMM OFFICER (FRUSTRATED)

Sorry ma'am. I've tried all channels but I can't get through. In fact, I can't pick up ANY of their signalers.

Codi sighs and turns to Catherine.

CODI

(STERN)

Gator. Take us far enough from Advisory Alpha so the explosion won't effect us.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Catherine mumbles into his headset.

ENGINEER (BLUNT)

Maybe they will notice us pulling away and figure out something is wrong with their signaler system.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Their is nothing wrong with their signalers.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

Pardon me ma'am?

Codi ignores Ivan. He stares at Codi, puzzled.

EXT. COMMIE STALKER NEAR MINSK (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

The ship continues to drift through space. The Minsk turns away from the ship. The Assault Shuttle pulls up along side of the sloop near the front and next to an air lock, it maneuvers so the side of the shuttle touches the ship.

INT. ASSAULT SHUTTLE - MAIN COMPARTMENT

There are only hatches leading to the cockpit and the boarding ramp. Marines in full battle gear are crammed in here, they have laser rifles hanging over their shoulders. Ban is standing near the exit hatch. A Marine next to her is working a panel, there are sounds of muffled lasers. There are also two Medic Techs in full battle gear and have med kits slung over their shoulders. There are several large cases of ammo clips along one of the walls.

BAN (LOUD)

How are we doing?

The Marine working the panel double checks it.

MARINE (LOUD)

We should be through in a few MicroYerks.

BAN (COMMANDING)

Okay everybody, listen up!

All the Marines turn and look at Ban.

BAN (LOUD)

Time is of the essences. We need to get in and out of there as fast as possible. But be careful, some Legion may have stayed behind and are waiting for us. Set your weapons to maximum output and take as much ammo as you can carry. Shoot to kill. If a target goes down make sure they REALLY are down. We don't have time for niceties. We are at war. Any question?

The Marines just stare at her.

BAN (LOUD)

Then load up!

The Marines turn, move over to the containers and start grabbing ammo.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - CORRIDOR

This is a dead-end deserted hall. Two lager circles are being cut into the wall at the far end by lasers from the outside. A large hatch size rectangle is being cut into the metal between them as well. The circle cuts are completed and the sliced metal of the wall falls to the floor, a large laser weapon pops out of each hole. The weapons open fire, turning in every direction and ricocheting blasts everywhere. After a few seconds the large rectangle is complete, the cutted wall falls to the deck and reveals the Assault Shuttle on the other side. The two lasers keep firing.

INT. ASSAULT SHUTTLE - MAIN COMPARTMENT

Everyone is facing the exit hatch. The Marine working the panel looks at Ban.

MARINE (LOUD)

We're through.

BAN (LOUD)

Open us up.

The Marine turns back towards the panel and flips a switch, the lasers stop firing. Ban pulls her rifle off her shoulder and points it in front of her. The Marines do the same.

BAN (COMMANDING)

Everyone stick with your partners.

The Marine working the panel and flips another switch and the hatch slides open. Codi screams a battle cry and dives through the hatch. The Marines follow.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - LONG SHOT

The ship continues to pull away from the docked ships.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - CORRIDOR

This is an intersection of two hallways. Ban is peaking into one around a corner, the rest of the Marines are behind her. She gestures for them to come forward. A pair races around her and into the corridor, their weapons at the ready.

INT. COMMIE STALKER - BRIDGE

Nikolai is still laying on the floor and moaning with pain. William is seated at the Sensor Station, examining the screen. The guards flank him. The hatch opens and the Legion turn towards it. Ban leaps out of the hatch and onto the deck, her weapon at the ready. Two Marines jump through the hatch on either side of her and kneel down on one knee, pointing their weapons at the guards. The rest of the Marines are standing on either side of the hatch and also have their weapons trained on the guards. Everyone scans the room and surveys the situation. William claps his paws.

WILLIAM (SARCASTIC)

Very good. I believe this is what is called a floor show?

The group notices there are only three Legions in the room.

BAN (COMMANDING)

Don't move a muscle. Legion scum!

William smiles and looks up to his guards.

WILLIAM (STERN)

Do your duty. Protect me.

The guards look down at William

GUARD (CONFUSED)

You must be joking.

William loses his smile.

WILLIAM (INFURIATED)

Protect me!!!

Ban looks at the guards.

BAN (WARNING)

Either one of you touch your weapon and you are dead!

The guards look at the Marines. One guard doesn't move but the other races forward and draws his weapon. As he squeezes the trigger all the Marines open fire. Every shot hits the Legion, he falls dead to the deck. After witnessing this, William looks back at the remaining guard.

WILLIAM (STERN)

Okay, it’s your turn.

The Guard looks down at William.

GUARD (SHOCKED)

Absolutely not.

WILLIAM (INFURIATED)

Do it!!!

GUARD (ANGRY)

I'm not lifting a hand. But you're welcome to use my gun.

William scowls at the guards, the look is returned. William looks over to the Marines and eyes all their weapons over.

BAN (ANGRY)

Give me an excuse, Legion! Please just one excuse!

William thinks for a moment, then smiles. He raises his arms.

WILLIAM (SARCASTIC)

I believe this is the appropriate position for this situation.

The guard also raises his paws.

BAN (ANGRY)

Raise them nice and high! Both of you!

William and the guard raise their arms as high as they go.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Secure the area.

The Marines fan out, covering every inch of the room checking for any traps or hiding Legion. Ban jumps to her feet as the two Marines kneeling next to her do the same. The three rush up to the Legions, keeping their weapons trained on them. One of the Marines disarms the guard. Ban quickly glances around the room, the Marines have checked everything out and have found nothing. She lowers her weapon.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Take care of this slime.

MARINE (STERN)

Yes ma'am.

WILLIAM (ANNOYED)

I resent the term slime.

William is ignores. Ban rushes over to Nikolai.

MARINE (ORDERING)

To your feet! Slime!

WILLIAM (ANNOYED)

Maybe you didn't hear me...

MARINE (ANGRY)

Feet! Now!

The Two Marines point their weapons directly at his head. William jumps to his feet.

WILLIAM (QUICKLY)

There is no need for violence.

One of the Marines indicates over to Nikolai.

MARINE (ANGRY)

Shame you didn't feel that way sooner.

William looks away. Ban slings her weapon over her shoulder and kneels next to Nikolai.

BAN (FRIGHTEN)

Nikolai?

Nikolai slowly turns over and looks up to Ban, he tries to smile. She smiles back.

BAN (RELIEVED)

At least you're alive.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN)

If you can call it that. Where is the Medic Tech?

BAN (REASSURING)

Back on the shuttle. We can't patch you up now. We have to get out of here.

Ban gently grabs him.

BAN(DISAPPOINTED)

This is definitely going to hurt you more than me.

As carefully as Ban can, she hoists Nikolai up and over her shoulder. He screams with pain.

WILLIAM (SMUG)

It's a waste of time. You can't get off this ship before it self destructs.

MARINE (LAUGHS)

Yeah right.

Ban turns towards William and the Marines.

BAN (HONEST)

I'm afraid he's right.

MARINE(CONFUSED)

What? You didn't tell us about any self destruct.

BAN (STERN)

No time for that. We have to get out of here. Now.

MARINE (ANNOYED)

Great.

BAN (COMMANDING)

Let's move!

Ban and the Marines move towards the hatch, the Legion moves slowly towards it.

WILLIAM (SARCASTIC)

Yes. Let's move.

BAN (ANNOYED)

And if any of the prisoners slow us down you have my permission to shoot them.

The Legion picks up the pace.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - LONG SHOT

The ship is a good distance away from the sloop. The Minsk turns towards the Commie Stalker and comes to a near stop.

INT. SHUTTLE - MAIN COMPARTMENT

Ban rushes into the ship. The Medic Techs turn towards her and she places Nikolai on the floor and up against a wall, he moans with pain. The techs pull out their scanners and begin to examine him. Four Marines drag William and the guard aboard the ship and then push them into a corner. The rest of the Marines begin to rush into the room. One of the Medic Techs pulls out a box with many lights and buttons, he pushes a few buttons and then places the box on the temple of Nikolai's head. This is a Nerve Manager. The box beeps and Nikolai sighs with relief. The last of the Marines rushes aboard, he looks at Ban.

MARINE (EXCITED)

I'm the last one!

A Maintenance Tech near the hatch pushes a button on the panel and the hatch closes. Ban quickly looks around the room.

BAN (STERN)

Is there anybody here who doesn't have their partner?

Everyone looks at each other, then they shake their heads.

BAN (INTO HEADSET)

Get us out of here, fast. And I mean fast!

WILLIAM (SMUG)

It's a waste of time.

A Marine next to William slams the butt of his gun into his stomach, he doubles over in pain.

EXT. SHUTTLE DOCKED TO COMMINE STALKER (OPTICAL) - CLOSE SHOT

The shuttle moves away from the sloop. Air escapes from the hole in the ship and pushes the shuttle away. The shuttle accelerates and moves quickly away. There are several explosions on the Commie Stalker which begin to throw debris outward. As the shuttle continues to speed away there are more explosions and debris. Finally, the entire ship explodes and the shuttle is engulfed in debris. For several long seconds there is only debris. Then the shuttle breaks through the cloud. It heads for the Minsk.

INT. SHUTTLE - MAIN COMPARTMENT

The rooms rocks from the explosion and then subsides. Everyone looks around the room and sighs with relief. The Medic Techs continue to work on Nikolai who is resting comfortably.

BAN (RELIVED)

That was close.

WILLIAM (TO HIMSELF, CONFUSED)

I don't understand it? I had it set so there wasn't enough time to get off.

BAN (BLUNT)

Did you take in account the process would take longer with the power diminished?

William smacks himself in the head and the Marine nearest to Ban turns towards her and looks her in the eye.

MARINE (ANGRY)

Why didn't you tell us about the self destruct system?

BAN (ANNOYED)

I didn’t know about it until everyone was abandoning ship. Besides, if you knew about it you would have gotten careless.

MARINE (ANGRY)

We could have been killed!

BAN (ANNOYED)

If you had known about it you would have ran madly through the ship and right into some Legion. You would have been cut down in an instant. Or worse, gotten lost!

MARINE (ANGRY)

Maybe! But is one man worth chancing all our lives?

BAN (ANNOYED)

Of course. He is your Exec. Besides, we now have prisoners who may prove worthy.

William recovers from his set back.

WILLIAM (ANGRY)

I'll tell you deposits!

MARINE (ANGRY)

Still! You had no right risking our lives.

BAN (SARCASTIC)

Strange. I though your job WAS to risk your lives for others.

WILLIAM (ANNOYING)

Some job!

MARINE (ANGRY)

We still had a right to know!

Ban looks around the room, all she gets from the Marine is cold stares.

BAN (ANNOYED)

Hey. I was in there with you. I was risking my life as well!

The Marines warm up a bit.

WILLIAM (ANNOYING)

Big words!

The Marine looks around the room, she sees a few smiles. He looks over to William.

MARINE (ANNOYED)

Shut up Legion slime.

William frowns.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Ivan is talking to Codi.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Advisory Alpha has been completely destroyed. And the Assault Shuttle is heading back to us.

Codi sighs with relief.

CODI (RELIEVED)

Good.

Codi looks down to Catherine.

CODI (PLEASED)

Slow us down so we can recover the shuttle, Gator.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

With pleasure.

Codi smiles and looks around the room.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

The ship slows down as the shuttle speeds towards the Minsk, the landing decks begin to lower.

INT. MINSK – POWER CONDUIT

It is as it was before, Lena lies motionless. A Medic Tech is kneeling next to her. The Maintenance tech looks on in horror. Suddenly, Lena snaps into a sitting position. She is alive but a little disorientated, she looks around.

LENA (CONFUSED)

What happened?

MAINTENANCE TECH (CONFUSED)

You were hit by a stray surge, you were killed. Or at least I thought you were.

Lena looks to the Medic Tech.

LENA (CONFUSED)

You saved me?

The Medic Tech shakes his head.

MEDIC TECH (CONFUSED)

By the time I got here it was too late, I could do nothing. Yet you somehow came back from the dead. Can you explain this?

Lena ignores him and looks to her tech.

LENA (STERN)

What is the status of the conduit?

MAINTENANCE TECH (BLUNT)

It is holding, but I don’t know for how long.

LENA (STERN)

Then I suggest we get to work on restoring the conduit as it was intended to be.

Lena tries to get up but the Medic Tech holds her down.

MEDIC TECH (BLUNT)

Oh no you don’t, you just came back from the dead! You’re going to the Medic Center.

Lena glares at him.

LENA (STERN)

I don’t have time for that deposits! I have a ship to repair!

MEDIC TECH (ANNOYED)

No! I refuse!

LENA (STERN)

I outrank you Medic! Let me up!

MEDIC (ANNOYED)

When it comes to your health I outrank you! I call the shots! And I say you are going to the Medic Center!

Lena sneers at him.

LENA (STERN)

You had better think otherwise or I’d hate to accidentally arrange for your turboflush to back up! I can make your life Hades!

The Medic Tech looks to her, he sees she is serious. He lets go.

MEDIC TECH (ANNOYED)

Fine!

Lena gets to her feet, she is a bit wobbly and the Maintenance tech steadies her.

MEDIC TECH (BLUNT)

See! I told you!

LENA (STERN)

I’m fine!

Lena looks to the Maintenance tech and nods, he lets go and she stands on her own two feet just fine. She smiles.

LENA (SMUG)

See!

The Medic Tech sighs, turns and storms out. Lena smiles and looks herself over, but she sees part of her flesh is torn away to reveal a robotic arm. She quickly puts her hand over it and glares to the tech.

LENA (STERN)

I said get to work!

He nods and rushes off, once he is gone she uncovers her hand and looks at the damage.

LENA

(RELIEVED) That was close.

She covers her arm again and stumbles off.

INT. MINSK - MEDIC TECH EMERGENCY ROOM

Nikolai is laying on one of the tables, he is awake. The new Lead Medic Tech and another Medic Tech are working on Nikolai. Ban stands near by and observes, she is still in her battle armor. The Medic holds Nikolai's leg still while the Lead Medic Tech points some sort of gun at it, a blue light is projected from it. The Lead Medic let's go of the trigger and the beam disappears, he places the gun onto his belt. He then pulls out a scanner and uses it on Nikolai's leg. After a few seconds he turns off the scanner and looks down to Nikolai, he smiles.

LEAD MEDIC TECH (PLEASED)

There. That should do it for now.

The Medic Tech lets go of Nikolai's leg. He sits up and smiles.

NIKOLAI (RELIVED)

Thanks.

The Lead Medic Tech nods and places his scanner back on his belt. He and the Medic Tech turn and walk over to the nurse's desk, they begin to talk to her. Ban walks up to Nikolai and he turns towards her.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I guess we're even.

BAN (CONFUSED)

Huh.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

You saved my life.

BAN (CONFUSED)

Oh.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

For which I must thank you.

BAN (BLUNT)

As you said, I was only repaying a debt.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But if that is the only reason why did you hang around here, your debt was paid in full when to handed me off the Medics.

Ban looks uneasy, she shifts her weight between her feet constantly and rubs the back of her neck. She searches for something to say. Finally she opens her mouth to speak. Just then the hatch opens and Codi walks into the room. Ban and Nikolai turns toward her, she stops before them.

CODI (SARCASTIC)

You two seem to enjoy hanging around here.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Trust me, I never want to see another Medic Tech again!

Codi chuckles but then glares at Ban.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Do you have something against reporting in, Comm Officer?

BAN (UNSURE)

Ah. No ma'am.

Codi doesn’t like the answer and glares at her, Nikolai sees this.

NIKOLAI (QUICKLY)

She is just doing her duty, commander.

The Felinions look to him confused.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

You sent her to save me, she was just seeing it to the end. To make sure I would recovered. Is that right Ban?

Ban pauses to think and then nods, Codi doesn’t by it.

CODI (STERN)

That is perhaps the most pathetic attempt at lying I have ever heard.

Nikolai and Ban are concerned as she glares at them, but after a few moments she smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

But since things turned out all right and I’m sick and tired of having to kick your butts around I’ll accept that.

Nikolai and Ban are relieved.

CODI (SMUG)

If I didn’t know better I’d say you two were Kalatirs.

Nikolai laughs but Ban takes offense but says nothing.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I contacted Command Control and explained the situation, they have ordered us to return home.

BAN (CONCERNED)

What about Perie, it is obvious he set us up. I would love to get my claws on him!

CODI (BLUNT)

So would I. But unfortunately, he has disappeared. No doubt he has fled Z37 when his plan failed. What of the prisoners?

BAN (EXPLAINING)

The Sergeant reports that they are locked away safely in detention, ready for interrogation.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

I’d love to be there for that!

CODI (BLUNT)

You are more than welcome, but first we need to get out of these asteroids. I suggest you return to the bridge and see to this.

Ban nods.

BAN (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Ban turns and leaves, Codi turns towards the Lead Medic Tech.

CODI (STERN)

How is the patient?

The Lead Medic Tech stops talking and turns towards Codi.

LEAD MEDIC TECH (PLEASED)

Fine. He'll be tender for a while where we fused his bones. Though, I'd like to run a few more tests on him just to be sure.

CODI (BLUNT)

Fine. Take your time.

Codi turns back towards Nikolai and the Lead Medic Tech goes back to talking to the Nurse. He folds his arms and diverts his eyes.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Go on. Say it.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Say what?

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

It was foolish for me to go out there. Because I did I was nearly killed and you had to save me once more!

Codi thinks for a moment.

CODI (REASSURING)

Well. If you hadn't we wouldn't have gotten William, he could provide a lot of useful information against the Legion. And to be quite frank had I been the one out there, a Felinion, no one would have came after me.

Nikolai glares at her.

NIKOLAI (DEFENSIVE)

I would have made them go after!

Codi smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

I have no doubt.

Nikolai sulks and she touches his shoulder.

CODI (BLUNT)

You can sulk and be mad all you want but you did something I thought could never happen.

Nikolai looks to her.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

When we left Mars I thought I would never see that planet again. At the very least I could come back in chains. I had all but given up all hope. But you never gave up, you never surrender. And now thanks to you we can return with our head up high. Not only because we have prisoners but we turned the admiral’s plan against him, we have won this round.

Nikolai reflects on what has been said and smiles, but only briefly.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

There is still one matter you need to attend to. A matter I must be punished for that and not some simple slap on the wrist. I attacked you and disobeyed you.

Everyone in the room stops what they are doing and looks at Nikolai. Codi is taken aback but only for a moment.

CODI (SARCASTIC)

I don’t know what you are talking about Exec.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But I punched you, stole your headset and locked you in your quarters!

CODI (SARCASTIC)

No, that never happened.

Nikolai is confused.

CODI (REASSURING)

Though if that was to have happened the pain and suffering you had in the paws of the Legion surely would be punishment enough. Don’t you agree?

Nikolai pauses to think and smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Yes, you are right. That never happened.

Codi loses her smile.

CODI (WHISPERS, STERN)

Because your intension were good, you are fortunate this time. But if you ever try anything like that again…

Codi holds up her hand to her chest so only Nikolai can see it, she extends her claws. His eyes are focused on them.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Trust me, I will never do that again.

Codi retracts her claws and smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Well when they release you please return to the bridge, Exec. We have a lot of work to do.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Yes Ma’am.

Codi turns and walks towards the hatch. She opens the hatch and walks out of the room, the hatch closes behind her. Everyone slowly goes back to what they were doing.

EXT. MINSK – ASTEROIDS (OPTICAL) – LONG SHOT

The ship continues through the asteroids.

INT. MINSK - NIKOLAI'S QUARTERS

The hatch opens and Nikolai steps in, goes over to the closet and the hatch closes. He opens it and goes to grab a new uniform. Suddenly, Catherine jumps out and grabs him, she hugs him tight.

CATHERINE

(EXCITED)

Oh Nik! I am so glad you are alive!

As Catherine squeezes Nikolai he moans with pain.

NIKOLAI (IN PAIN)

Easy Cat! I’m still a little sore!

Catherine lets go.

CATHERINE (EMBARRASSED)

Sorry honey.

Nikolai sighs with relief, then he looks to her.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What are you doing here?

CATHERINE (SMUG)

I thought that was obvious.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

I meant shouldn’t you be on the bridge?

CATHERINE (EXPLAINING)

When I heard you were being released I suddenly came down with this awful stomachache and asked if I could be excused.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I’m touched but what happens when you don’t show up in the Medic Center?

CATHERINE (SMUG)

I just say it miraculously went away.

Nikolai laughs but Catherine becomes serious.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

Oh Nik, what made you take the Commander’s place and fly off in that shuttle?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

I knew that whoever was waiting for her, whether it be Legion or UCF, they would treat a human a lot better than a Felinion. I had to go.

CATHERINE (STERN)

But you could have been killed!

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Nah, I knew the commander would make sure of that.

CATHERINE (ANNOYED)

But what of the Admiral’s orders? The Commander was suppose to be on that shuttle, not you! You could be in big trouble.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Some things are more important that personal gain. Like trust and loyalty.

CATHERINE (CONFUSED)

Did they slip you some catnip?

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

I’m sick of being the pawn for the UCF! For Command Control! Even the admiral! It is time I start doing things because they are the right thing to do! If you don’t understand then you will never understand me!

Catherine caresses Nikolai’s cheek, she stares into his eyes and smiles.

CATHERINE (SLY)

This is all I understand.

Catherine kisses Nikolai passionately, he returns the kiss in the same manner. When they break apart they stare into each other’s eyes.

CATHERINE (PASSIONATE)

I love you Nik. To me, that is all that matters.

NIKOLAI (PASSIONATE)

I love you Cat.

Catherine smiles.

CATHERINE (PLEASED)

Leave it to me to make things right.

Nikolai is confused but Catherine turns and heads for the exit.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

I’d better get back to the bridge before they start missing me.

Catherine opens the hatch but before she steps out and looks back over her shoulder.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

See you on the bridge?

Nikolai nods and Catherine blows him a kiss, then she faces forward and steps out. The hatch closes. He stands there for several long moments and looks to the door, thinking. Then he goes back to the closest and grabs a uniform, he starts to undress.

EXT. MINSK – ASTEROIDS (OPTICAL) – LONG SHOT

The ship clears the asteroids and continues out towards clear space.

INT. MINSK - NIKOLAI'S QUARTERS

The hatch opens and Catherine steps in, she leads Codi, Ban (in her regular clothes again) and Nikolai into the room. The hatch closes behind them. She stops in the center of the room, they other look to her.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Now what is all this about?

BAN (CONFUSED)

Yes, why did you want to see us alone?

CATHERINE (SMUG)

There is something I need to show you but first things first.

Catherine reaches up and grabs the Felinion’s headsets, drops them on the floor and crushes them both under her boot.

CODI (SHOCKED)

Hey!

BAN (ANNOYED)

What did you do that for?

Catherine smiles to them.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

Very shortly the bridge is going to try and contact you. They are going to report that the prisoners are dead. Also everyone in detention is dead, including the Marines. After all, can’t have any witnesses.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What?

Realization comes over the Felinions.

BAN (EXCITED)

She’s a spy!

CODI (EXCITED)

Get her!

But before they can do anything Catherine draws a small laser weapon and points it at them.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

I would highly suggest against that.

They look to the weapons, they can do nothing but stand their and sulk.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Is this true? Are you really a spy?

CATHERINE (TEASING)

That is what I like about you Nik, you are always slow at the draw.

Nikolai is confused and Catherine giggles.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

But I love you just the same.

Catherine becomes serious.

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

But to answer your question. Yes, I am a spy.

BAN (BLUNT)

It wasn’t Yurri who set up the Depleter but you!

Catherine nods slightly.

CATHERINE (PROUD)

Guilty as charged.

CODI (CONCERNED)

But the question is who are you spying for? The admiral?

CATHERINE (ANNOYED)

Give me some credit! The admiral’s focus is narrow minded! Though, seeing the Felinions kicked out of the UCF would make me happy he is just one player.

BAN (BLUNT)

Then it must be the Legion!

Catherine chuckles.

CATHERINE (LAUGHING)

Oh please! Their cause is doomed as yours! No, the only one I’m working for is myself!

CODI (CONFUSED)

Huh?

CATHERINE (EXPLAINING)

I’m just helping the Legion because they will help me realize my dreams in the end.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Did you help kill Commander Trotsky?

CATHERINE (ANGRY)

Certainly not! My only job was letting Yurri know the location of certain merchant ships in our patrol corridor. He would then contact the Legion so they could capture them.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Did you know why he was killed?

Catherine nods.

CATHERINE (ANNOYED)

They felt that we had a better chance of controlling the ship if you were Commander, through me.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

He was killed because of me?

CATHERINE (DISAPPOINTED)

Unfortunately.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Then why was Nicholas killed?

CATHERINE (BLUNT)

She wasn't. She died exactly like Yurri reported, natural causes. It was just a coincidence that they died right after the other.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

You knew all this. Everything. And still willingly worked against the Force. Against me.

CATHERINE (ANNOYED)

Don't go ethical on me. If I didn't do it someone else would of. Especially for the money they are paying me.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

My god, Cat! People died because of you!

CATHERINE (ANGRY)

So did people in the war! But did any of us hold the governments responsible? Was there outrage? Was there any justice?

Nikolai tries to respond by can't.

CATHERINE (ANGRY)

Of course not! So don't expect any on me!

Nikolai doesn’t know what to think.

CODI (STERN)

You know, Gator. You’ll never get off this ship.

Catherine smiles.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

Who says I want to leave?

BAN (STERN)

That is your only recourse. Once you drew that Laz your career ended with the UCF.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

Oh, I plan on ending it but not quite yet.

CODI (STERN)

If you think you can bargain using us as hostages you had better think again!

CATHERINE (SMUG)

I hardly think the UCF would be willing to cut a deal to save some Felinions.

BAN (CONFUSED)

Then what is your game?

CATHERINE (SMUG)

In our little meeting here it turns out you didn’t like being on report Ban. You tried to convince the commander otherwise but her defiance forced her to break you down to Deck Hand. Enraged you killed the commander. Fortunately, Nik and myself managed to disarm and arrest you. You will stand trial for her murder. Showing how untrusting Felinions are the admiral gets what he wants. Then I get what I want, Nik as Commander of the Minsk as it was meant to be.

Ban busts out laughing.

BAN (LAUGHING)

You’re insane if you think I’m not going to reveal this scheme at the trial!

CATHERINE (SMUG)

I’m counting that you do. They are going to believe us humans over a Felinion, you are just trying to save your own skin.

Ban stops laughing.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

And if you think I’m going to go alone with this plan then you are insane!

CATHERINE (SMUG)

Poor Nik, after stuffing the torture at the hands of the Legion you have become delusional. But I’m sure a long leave of absents, with your cute Gator, will fix that. Or at least so you can’t testify at the trial.

CODI (STERN)

This incident will be investigated! Thoroughly! You will be exposed!

CATHERINE (SMUG)

Of course but I’m sure the admiral will make sure that it comes out like I have planned, like he wants. You Felinions will get what you deserve!

BAN (BLUNT)

Yeah but-

CATHERINE (ANNOYED)

Enough talk! Nik and I will be in command of the Minsk once again! Nothing can stop me from accomplishing this!

NIKOLAI (STERN)

No, something will stop you. And that something is me!

Nikolai takes a step towards Catherine, she points her laser at him but keeps an eye on the Felinions.

CATHERINE (STERN)

Back off.

Nikolai takes another step.

CATHERINE (ANNOYED)

I said back off!

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Put that toy away.

CATHERINE (EXCITED)

I'm not fooling around!

Nikolai begins to laugh.

NIKOLAI (LAUGHING)

Yeah right. Come on, it's me. Nik.

CATHERINE (EXCITED)

I'm warning you. If you don't back off right this MicroYerk I'm going to shoot!

NIKOLAI (LAUGHING)

No you won't. You love me.

CATHERINE (ANGRY)

Yes but I love my freedom more! I won’t let anyone stand in the way of my plans! Not even you!

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

You WOULD shoot me.

Catherine nods.

CATHERINE (COLD)

They're giving me enough to buy a Battlecruiser. After all this is over we'll be able to buy our own ship. You'll be the Commander and I'll be the Exec. Just like we always wanted. And this time there won't be any Felinions to ruin it. I’m doing this for you Nik!

Nikolai stares at Catherine, horrified. She forces a smile and he backs off.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

Now Commander, I believe it is time for you to die.

Catherine points her weapon at Codi.

BAN (HORRIFIED)

Nooo!

Nikolai is in too much shock to do anything. As she squeezes the trigger Ban leaps in front of Codi, the weapon discharges. Ban is hit in the chest, Ban screams in pain. This snaps Nikolai out of it and he catches her, but her momentum pulls them down to the floor. Codi looks at Ban bewildered, he kneels next to her. Nikolai rolls Ban over on her back, she looks up to him. He opens his mouth to speak but she reaches up and grabs Nikolai's uniform, she pulls him down to her. She begins to whisper something to him. Catherine glares at Ban.

CATHERINE (ANGRY)

You Sepcor Felinion! You have ruined everything!

Ban screams, clutching Nikolai's uniform even tighter. Then, she let's go of Nikolai and dies. She stares aimlessly at the ceiling. Nikolai checks for a pulse. Codi snaps out of it and looks to them, he sighs and looks to her. He shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (SAD)

She’s dead.

Codi clenches her fist and holds them up over her head, her claws extend into them and thick orange blood trickles out. She roars in anger. Nikolai reaches down, places his hand over Ban’s eyes and closes them. Codi unclenches her fists but keeps her claws extended, she glares at Catherine.

CODI (INFURIATED)

I will kill you for this!

Catherine calms down, she even smiles.

CATHERINE (SMUG)

I think you have it backwards, Felinion.

Catherine points her weapon at Codi and pulls the trigger. Suddenly, the hatch opens. Everyone turns to see a group of Marines pour through, they all have their weapons drawn and are ready for a fight. Catherine points her gun at them, when she sees this they out fire and she is riddled with hits. She drops her gun to the floor and collapses, Nikolai screams and goes to her side. He cradles her head in his arms, she is barely alive. She looks up to him weakly and forces a smile.

CATHERINE (WEAK)

I did it for you Nik… I swear I did it just for you…

Nikolai fights back the tears.

NIKOLAI (EMOTIONAL)

I know you did… I know you did…

Catherine coughs up some blood.

CATHERINE (WEAK)

I love you Nik… I will always love you no matter where I end up…

Nikolai opens his mouth but her eyes close, she is dead. Tears roll down his cheeks. Codi goes over to Ban and kneels next to her, she cries openly. The Marines look to one another not sure what to do.

EXT. MINSK (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship continues on at normal speed.

INT. MINK – BRIDGE

Everyone is back at their stations who is still alive expect for Codi and Nikolai, their stations are empty. There is a new Comm Officer and Gator here. Lena has a bandage on her arm. Everyone is busy doing their jobs. The hatch opens and Nikolai walks in, he forces a smile but his eyes reveal his hurt. Everyone is pleased to see him.

LENA (PLEASED)

Exec, what a pleasant surprise.

He steps up to the group and the hatch closes.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

An Exec on the bridge is a surprise?

LENA (SMUG)

It is on the Minsk.

The group laughs, Nikolai forces a chuckle. But then Lena looks to him with concern.

LENA (CONCERNED)

Are you okay Nikolai?

NIKOLAI (UPBEAT)

Of course I am.

He steps towards his station but Lena grabs his arm, as he looks to her she looks deep into his eyes.

LEAN (CONCERNED)

I know you were the one that called in the Marines on your headset while Catherine was busy talking to the Felinions. You did the right thing.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

I don’t want to talk about.

LEAN (UNDERSTANDING)

I know, not now. But if you ever come to a point where you do you know where to find me. Catherine was my friend.

Nikolai studies her and then nods.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

I appreciate that, Lena.

Nikolai smiles to her for a moment but then looks to the other.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

But for now we have a ship to run.

Lena nods and lets go, Nikolai takes his station.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

How long till we return to Mars?

The Gator checks her controls.

GATOR (BLUNT)

3.1 Yerks, sir.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

And the status of the Conduit?

LENA (BLUNT)

It has been restored to its original specs.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

What scan activity do you have?

Ivan checks his screen, he looks oddly at it.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Scan officer?

IVAN (CONFUSED)

I don't know how strange this is going to sound, but I'm picking up a Felinion life form just outside the ship.

Nikolai quickly turns towards Ivan.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Is it alive?

IVAN (CONFUSED)

No, it's quite dead.

Nikolai quickly looks to the empty Command Station, he gasps.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Comm Officer, see if you can contact the Commander!

COMM OFFICER (BLUNT)

Yes sir.

The Comm Officer whispers into his headset. Nikolai anxiously watches him work. The Comm Officer checks his screen then looks over to Nikolai.

COMM OFFICER (BLUNT)

Sorry sir, but the Comm for Commander has failed. I can't even pick up her headset signaler.

NIKOLAI (TO HIMSELF, SAD)

That's because it’s outside the ship.

COMM OFFICER (CONFUSED)

Pardon me sir?

Nikolai ignores the Comm Officer and turns towards Ivan.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Where did you first pick up the Felinion reading?

IVAN (BLUNT)

Just below the ship, near the Bay Room.

Nikolai jumps to his feet and races for the hatch.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

You have the bridge, Engineer Officer!

Before Lena can response the hatch is already open and Nikolai has left the room.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

The room is as before except it is minus a shuttle. Codi is standing near the green light, the decks are lowered and staring down into it. The hatch slides open and Nikolai races into the room. He stops when he sees her, he sighs with relief.

NIKOLAI (RELIEVED)

Thank God!

Codi slowly turns towards Nikolai.

CODI (SURPRISED)

What are you doing here?

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

I thought you had committed suicide!

CODI (CONFUSED)

Why me?

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

After what happened to Ban!

CODI (CONFUSED)

How did you know I was down here?

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

We picked up a Felinion life sign outside the ship.

Nikolai's mouth drops open. He races over to the green light and looks down into it, Codi faces it and also looks down. Her headset is not in sight. Through the light they can see Ban's body floating through space, it is traveling at the same speed at the ship but it is slowly slowing down. Nikolai looks up to Codi, she continues to stare into the light.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What in the Mars is going on?

CODI (BLUNT)

It is an ancient Felinion ritual. A Kalatir's final task is to bury her Kalatir in the element she died in as soon as possible.

Nikolai looks embarrassed.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Forgive me. I am intruding.

Nikolai turns to leave.

CODI (BLUNT)

No. It's over now.

Both Codi and Nikolai stare through the light for several moments. Nikolai looks up to Codi, a tear runs down her check.

NIKOLAI (COMFORTING)

Don't worry Codi, you still have me.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

NIKOLAI (COMFORTING)

Just before Ban died she whispered something to me. Kalatir, Bonded Friend.

Codi looks up to Nikolai.

NIKOLAI (COMFORTING)

She said she was your best friend and asked me to take her place.

Nikolai wipes the tear from Codi's cheek, she grabs his hand.

CODI (HONEST)

You're my only friend now.

Codi forces a smile, she lets go of Nikolai.

CODI

(SAD)

Fortunately, I won’t hold you to her request.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

No. Where ever you go, I go. I made a promise.

CODI (SAD)

She made a request, not a promise.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

In my culture a last person's request IS a promise.

CODI (BITTER)

Perhaps. But it is more complicated than that.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Regardless I will keep my promise. Besides, it will help me justify Catherine’s action.

CODI (CONFUSED)

But she was a traitor.

Nikolai glares at her but then regains his composure.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

It's risky labeling people.

CODI (COLD)

Are you trying to say that Catherine was justified in all that she did?

NIKOLAI (DEFENSIVE)

Absolutely not! She tricked me. She used me. She killed Ban and was the cause of other deaths. She sold herself our to the Legion. But in the end, the very end, she still loved me. That is all that matters to me!

Codi looks at Nikolai and searches for something to say, but finds nothing. Finally, she looks down into the light again and sighs.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

Yes, I can sense that now. Though she was a traitor the question is when someone asks you about her how are you going to respond?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

It's God's job to judge people. It's ours to forgive our enemies. No matter how heinous the crime or how much they have betrayed us. If we can forgive our enemies then surely we can forgive our friends.

CODI (COLD)

Your god is nothing like mine.

Nikolai frowns. Codi turns towards the hatch. He notices this and turns in the same direction. She places her arm around his shoulder.

CODI (PROUD)

I appreciate the offer, Nikolai. I know we need each other to get past our losses. I will be more willing to be, in your terms, your friend. But becoming my Kalatir is impossible.

NIKOLAI (HURT)

You don’t think I will stick with it?

Codi shakes her head.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, I’m confident you could. The problem is that a Kalatir is something deeper, more committed than a mere friend. Emotionally you can handle it, physically you could not. Your humanoid body would never survive the rituals of the Kalatir. I’m sorry.

Nikolai opens his mouth but she glares at him, he sighs and nods. Codi lets go and they head for the hatch.

EXT. MARS AND FLEET (OPTICAL) - MEDD. SHOT

The Minsk is approaching the fleet to rejoin it.

CODI (VOICE OVER)

Log entry 22.57.02.23.07.07.39.99, Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea logging. We have returned to Mars safely and yet empty pawedly. Thanks to Catherine’s treachery our prisoners are dead. You would think I would be happy to just be alive but I’m not. True I miss Ban so much yet I have no time to mourn her. The admiral has requested that he see Nikolai at once. Though my Exec has promised that he was defend my actions to the death there are too many factors working against me. My rejection of his offer to be my Kalatir. His loss of Catherine. Losing his command of the Minsk because of me. Facing the sheer brutality of the admiral alone. Unfortunately, I have been betrayed by humanoids before so it is just a matter of time before he too turns against me. I am confidant with the admiral’s hatred for my race the fate of myself and even Felinions in the force is at an end.

EXT. MARS CITY (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

On the surface of the planet is a llarge domed city, large laser guns and missile batteries surround the dome outside. It is not made of plastic of glass but of a visible Quzii shield. Inside everything is made of metal, there are buildings of all sizes. From Skyscrapers to one story buildings. Vehicles of all size zip around in the air. Some are civilian and some are military. Everyone goes about their business.

INT. MARS CITY – MILITARY SECTOR – JOSEPH OFFICE

This is a large office decorated wiith expensive furniture, plush carpeting and fancy wall coverings. The walls and desk are covered with awards and metals of honor. Nikolai is standing before the desk as Joseph is sitting at it, the Admiral does not seem pleased.

JOSEPH (STERN)

What in the carbon deposits have yoou done?

Nikolai looks to him confused.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Excuse me admiral?

Joseph points at Nikolai.

JOSEPH (ANNOYED)

Don’t play coy with me! You were orrdered to help discredit that Felinion commander and yet she comes back a hero! Saving an Ore Carrier! Destroying a Legion ship! Saving your butt! And to top it off you submit a report that puts her in a positive light! What were you thinking?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Everything in there is the truth.

JOSEPH (STERN)

The truth is not fact! It is told aas you see things! I want it told that Felinions are a burden, not as asset! Rewrite that report to reflect this!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I’m afraid I can’t do that.<

JOSEPH (STERN)

Excuse me?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I said I can’t do that, sir.>

JOSEPH (ANNOYED)

I’m not only your commanding officeer but also of the fleet! You will do as ordered!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

You can order me into battle. You ccan order me on a suicide mission. You can even order me to take a laser for you. All of which I would gladly obey. But you can’t order me to lie to destroy a race just because you feel it necessary.

JOSEPH (ANNOYED)

You are way out of line!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

No you are the one that is out of lline!

Joseph glares at Nikolai and he staares back, he refuses to yield. Joseph pauses for a moment and then sighs.

JOSEPH (FRUSTRATED)

Let’s not fight each other, Nikolaii. We both have enough enemies to go around.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I would prefer that sir.

Joseph collects his thoughts.

JOSEPH (BLUNT)

It is because of your commander, a Felinion, that you lost command of your ship.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No, that was Command Control’s calll. A human organization. And to be quite honest, I am grateful that they choose it this way.

JOSEPH (CONFUSED)

Why?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Because of my Commander I have reallized that I’m not ready to command. That instead of looking at the whole picture I only think of myself. Just like you are doing now sir.

Joseph glares at Nikolai but it hass no effect.

JOSEPH (BLUNT)

The fact is that not one but two sppies were found on the Minsk thus proving that Felinions breed treachery.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Both Yurri and Catherine were brougght aboard the Minsk under Trotsky’s command.

JOSEPH (ANNOYED)

Are you saying Trotsky was a traitoor!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

All I’m saying is for Yerks these sspies worked undetected. That is until the Felinion Commander came on board and in less than two DecaYerk she not only exposed them but eliminated them.

JOSEPH (STERN)

But because of Felinions you lost the love of your life! Catherine!

The word cut deep, this makes Joseph smile but Nikolai recovers.

NIKOLAI (DEFIANT)

Catherine’s actions took her own life, she is the only one to blame. But on the other hand the Commander’s lost some more important. Someone she can not live without. The Sensor Officer was not just a Felinion, but her best friend.

Joseph laughs.

JOSEPH (LAUGHING)

You expect us to believe a friend in more important than a lover?

NIKOLAI (STERN)

To a Felinion, yes. They pride their friendship over all others. So much so that the Sensor Officer gave her life so her friend might live. Not because she was her commander, but because she was her friend. It is because of this my loss does not seem as great. It is important things like this we can learn from the Felinions if we would just give them a chance instead of ridiculing them! You need to give them a chance!

JOSEPH (ANGRY)

Listen here Exec! I own you! I can bust you down to a deck hand if I wanted too! You are military so your mother the Select Woman or your father the scientist can’t say you! No one can save you! Either cooperate or your days in the Force are over!

NIKOLAI (DEFIANT)

You can demote me, break me, even kick me out but I will not help you to destroy others. One man is not more important than a race. Than an idea. For if a man dies a race will live on! But if the race dies the man will have to live with his actions the rest of his life. So you are going to have to find someone else to do you dirty more!

Joseph just stares their in disbelief, then he cracks a smile.

JOSEPH (SHOCKED)

Maybe you are right… Maybe it is time to do things differently… These Felinions have to be something special to turn you against me. Perhaps it is time I start listening rather than carrying on. Alright, the report stands as it is.

Nikolai is shocked.

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

You mean it?

Joseph nods.

JOSEPH (REASSURING)

Yes, we’ll do it your way.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Thank you sir!

JOSEPH (PLEASED)

No, thank you for showing me the light.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

The Commander is right outside, you can tell her yourself.

Joseph shakes his head.

JOSEPH (PLEASED)

No, I’ll let you have that privilege.

Joseph salutes.

JOSEPH (PLEASED)

Dismissed.

Nikolai salutes, turns around and marches out. Once he is gone Joseph loses his smile.

JOSEPH (ANNOYED)

There are more one way to skin a Felinion… Or an Exec…

He stares in anger at the door.

INT. MARS CITY – MILITARY SECTOR – CORRIDOR

This is a metallic hallway with many hatches, humans in military uniforms rush here and there. Codi and Nikolai walk together, she is smiling and he is really happy.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

The admiral is on our side now!

CODI (PLEASED)

So I heard.

Nikolai stops and so does Codi, they look to one another.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But how?

CODI (SMUG)

You forget I’m a Felinion, I’m all ears.

Codi wiggles her ears and Nikolai laughs, but she becomes serious.

CODI (PLEASED)

I heard everything in there, I was very proud of you. You really stuck up for not just me but Felinions.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

You would have done the same.

CODI (HONEST)

I would have tried. Whether of not I would have succeed with the Admiral in my face I doubt.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I think you would have.

Codi to ponder and then smiles.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Regardless, after what you have done for me and my people you would have made Ban proud. Because of that I must admit I was wrong about you.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Excuse?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I think you would make a fine Kalatir. Because of that, if your offer still stands, I would like you to be my Kalitar.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

You bet I would!

CODI (STERN)

Now before you get excited this is not going to be easy. It is going to be a hundred… No, a thousand times harder than anything you have experienced. Taxing both you mentally and physically. Everything you hear and do will be alien to you. It will be the hardest thing you have to face.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I can take on anything, as long as you are at my side.

CODI (PLEASED)

I believe you.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

So what do we need to do?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

This not going to be some simple process, it is going to be long and hard and take several phases. The first is I will have to tell you about my last Kalatir.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

Ban?

Codi nods.

CODI (HONEST)

Yes.

They begin to walk side by side again.

CODI (PROUD)

The reason why Ban was my Kalatir was that she knew how to really drive me crazy. Always questioning me and running off and doing her own thing. I think we can safely say you have a head start in this area.

Nikolai chuckles.

CODI (PROUD)

It wasn't until later I figured out the real reason why she did it. To keep me on my toes, to keep me alert. As it would turn out this would save my life more than once... But I'm getting ahead of myself. I first meet Ban on a little Scout ship. The Dridebor I believe it was called. Back then she was nothing more than a frighten unconfident kitten. Why did you know...

Codi continues to talk as they walk, the words “The End” appear and then fade away.

END CREDITS

THE END