"KALATIR: Fallen Heroes!"

"KALATIR: FALLEN HEROES!"

The words “22^nd Centroidds Presents…” appear.

FADE IN:

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. Several Engineer Techs lie dead on the floor. Nikolai Solace is here frantically working one of the consoles. He is about 33 years old, tall, skinny, plain looking and has black hair. He is wearing a gray uniform, heavy black boots and a headset with a microphone. He has a small golden half crown insignia on each shoulder. Lying next to the console is a small laser pistol.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

90 MicroYerks to Ultra-Light collappse, Diodes are still out of alignment.

Nikolai frantically continues to woork.

VOICE (STERN)

Hold it right there!

Nikolai ignores the warning and conntinues to work!

VOICE (ANNOYED)

I said stop or she gets it!<

Nikolai looks over his shoulder to an open hatch to see a Legion Warrior standing there. He is a big burly man wearing a black leather uniform with large red skull and cross bones on the chest. Clutched in one hand is a knife, in the other he has Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea (Codi) She is a cat‑like creature with the frame of a human but are covered with fur, has finger-like claws on both hands and feet, pointed ears, whiskers and fur covered breasts. Her fur is blonde with black stripes and is wearing the same uniform as Nikolai including the boots, she has full crown insignias on her shoulders. On her head is a headset (modified to fit her head) See has one of her arms twisted behind her back in a painful position and the knife to her throat. The Legion sneers at Nikolai.

LEGION WARRIOR (AMERICAN ACCENT, STERN)

Step away Exec or your feline commaander gets it!

Codi looks to Nikolai.

CODI (PLEADING)

Forget about me Nikolai! If the enggines shut down the Legion will catch up to us! You can’t let that happen!

The Warrior twists Codi’s arm even more and she moans with pain.

LEGION WARRIOR (ANNOYED)

I don’t remember giving you permisssion to speak Felinion scum!

Codi’s eyes are squeezed closed beccause of the pain, he looks back to Nikolai.

LEGION WARRIOR (STERN)

Step away now or she dies!

Nikolai looks back to the console aand thinks.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

50 MicroYerks to Ultra-Light collappse, Diodes are still out of alignment.

Nikolai glances over to the laser nnext to it. This is seen.

LEGION WARRIOR (ANNOYED)

That does it! She dies now!<

Nikolai steps away from the consolee and looks to the others.

NIKOLAI (RUSSIAN ACCENT, PLEADING)

Okay, you win! Please don’t hurt heer!

The Warrior looks to Nikolai, he seees defeat in his eyes. He eases off the knife.

LEGION WARRIOR (SMUG)

Wise move Commie. Now only if the rrest of you would surrender your government to use fewer would need to suffer.

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

You hold all the cards, you have woon. How about you let her go?

The Warrior looks to Codi and consiiders this, then he looks to Nikolai. He sees the desperation in his eyes, he smiles.

LEGION WARRIOR (SMUG)

Why not, better that you two shall die together.

The Warrior shoves Codi and let’s ggo, she stumbles over into Nikolai’s arms. He is relieved that she is okay but she is disappointed.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Why did you stop? Why did to do as he said?

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Because you are my Kalatir, my bondded friend. I couldn’t let him kill you.

CODI (BLUNT)

Because of your weakness we will alll die when the Legion overtakes us and destroys us!

Nikolai just smiles but Codi staress back at him coldly.

LEGION WARRIOR (SMUG)

She is correct, Exec. Because you ssurrendered you will all die.

Nikolai looks over to the Warrior aand smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

The only one that is going to die tthis DecaYerk is you.

The Warrior looks to the laser on tthe console as Nikolai reaches behind him and pulls out another laser tucked in his belt, he points it at him. When he sees this he lunges at him with the knife but the weapon fires. He is hit in the chest, drops his weapon and falls dead to the floor. Codi looks on confused.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

5 MicroYerks to Ultra-Light collapsse, Diodes are still out of alignment.

Nikolai rushes back to the consolee and continues to work it.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

3 MicroYerks to Ultra-Light collapsse, Diodes are still out of alignment.

The console beeps positively to Nikkolai.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Diodes have been alignment. Ultra-LLight collapse has been averted. All systems running as designed.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Looks like I save the day one againn.

Codi glares at Nikolai.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You cheated!

Nikolai turns towards Codi.<

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I may have changes a few parameterss but I wouldn’t go as far as cheating.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You Sepcor!

The words “Simulation Terminated” aappear over the scene and everyone freezes.

FADE OUT:

The words “A Steven Today Productioon…” appear.

FADE IN:

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

This is a small modest room with a chair, a desk and closest. On the desk is a small computer console, on the monitor is a silhouette of Russia. In the corner is a large fluffy mattress with no frame. In another corner is a large pan full of sand and a sink. In the center of the room is a large wooden post that has deep claw marks in it, lying on the floor next to it is a ball of yarn. Also in the room and against a wall is a large wooden chest with carved hieroglyphic markings. Against one wall is an old treadmill made of wood and rope. It has many claw marks on it and hieroglyphics on the sides. The room is very clean except there is cat hair is all over the place, the same color as Codi’s. Nikolai and Codi are standing in the center of the room, they look like they did before except she is in a different uniform. It consists of a short vest and shorts with no boots. Their headsets lie on the bed. On their faces are VR-Spectacles. They are like wrap around sunglasses that are black and have cables connected to them, these lead over to the computer on the desk. Codi rips her’s off in anger why Nikolai casually takes his off. She glares and points at him with her free hand.

CODI (ANNOYED)

How in the Deposits did you hack inn this time? I had the system triple encrypted!

Nikolai takes Codi’s glasses and smmiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I had a little help.

Codi clinches her fist.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Lena!

Nikolai nods and goes over to the ddesk.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You have really disappointed me noww Nikolai!

Nikolai puts the glasses on the dessk and laughs.

NIKOLAI (LAUGHING)

You’re just sore you lost.

CODI (ANNOYED)

This isn’t a game! This is serious!! This simulation is part of our Kalatir training! We can’t move onto the next trial until we complete it as it was meant to be!

Nikolai settles down and turns towaards her.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

You mean until I defeat the Legion by stopping the Ultra-Light collapse and allow them to kill you.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Exactly! You need to put the Kalatiir into perspective. Our bond is very important but it is meaningless if we allow it to cause others to suffer.

Nikolai walks back over to Codi.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

You know it is a simulation and I kknow it is a simulation. It is not real so your sacrifice is not real. So what is the big deal?

CODI (ANNOYED)

If that is the case then why do youu insist on tampering with it? Just let me die and we can move on!

Nikolai’s smile fades.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

It isn’t that simple!

CODI (CONFUSED)

Why not?

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

You wouldn’t understand!

Nikolai walks over to the bed.

CODI (HONEST)

I’m your Kalatir, your friend. I haave to understand.

Nikolai stops and turns towards herr, Codi smiles to him. He sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

It is because of Wactorii.

CODI (CONFUSED)

The Crown Princess of Felina? My hoome world?

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

Yeah.

Nikolai plops on the bed and Codi wwalks over to her, he looks to his feet.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

It is that simulation that she and the Court of Chaw put me through. When they abducted you and wired me up. It was horrible.

Codi sees his pain and sits next too Nikolai.

CODI (HONEST)

Yeah, the Apparition Generator is vvery realistic, far in advanced to what we are using. It is as if you are really there.

Nikolai looks up and off in the disstance.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

The screams… The blood… The death… It was horrible…

CODI (CONFUSED)

But you have been in battle before.. You have faced death.

Nikolai glares at Codi.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

These weren’t warriors but innocentt civilians! Adults and even children! Slaughtered before my eyes!

Nikolai looks away again.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

They may be Felinions but I felt thheir pain! I was powerless to do anything!

Codi pauses to think.

CODI (HONEST)

Somehow I don’t think you are beingg completely honest.

Nikolai looks to Codi confused.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

You say it was all the killing yet you just told me it was Wactorii that scared you the most.

Nikolai glares at Codi but she doess not back down, he smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

You and your Felinion intellect.

Nikolai looks away again.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Yeah, it really has to do with Wactorii. She was a pawn of the court, used and manipulated as much as us. She is more of an outsider than part of it. She is so dedicated to helping Felina that she would do anything they wanted, even to die for them. That would be a tragic loss. I want to send a nice threatening letter to the court warning them that-

CODI (INTERRUPTING, BLUNT)

You know you can’t do that! The test they subjected you to was to see if they wanted to open the doors to humanoids, to trade secrets and technology. If you go threatening them not only will they slam the door in your face but lock as well.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I said I WANTED to, not that I WAS. I know the jury is still out on our acceptance so I just have to grin and bare it.

CODI (REASSURING)

In order to be a member of the court you have to be someone special and Wactorii is no exception. She is a very intelligent female, she knows how to handle herself. She has stared down her prince more than once, she will be fine.

Nikolai smiles to Codi and puts his hand on her leg.

NIKOLAI (THANKFUL)

Thank you for listening Codi.

Codi places her hand on Nikolai’s and smiles.

CODI (REASSURING)

That is what Kalatirs do.

They smile at each other for a few moments.

CODI (PLEASED)

Though, you could replay me in a small way.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Sure, you name it.

Codi squeezes Nikolai’s hand really hard.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Replay the simulation the right way so we can move on!

Codi keeps squeezing and Nikolai cringes with pain.

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

Okay! Okay! Reset it to how it was and I will! I promise!

Codi keeps squeezing and he moans with pain, finally she lets go. He grabs his hand and rubs it.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Remind me never to get on your bad side.

Codi smiles.

CODI (TEASING)

I always do but it never seems to help.

Nikolai chuckles, Codi grabs the headsets from her bed. She hands Nikolai’s his.

CODI (BLUNT)

Unfortunately, I have some things I need to attend to.

Nikolai takes his headset.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Going to check on your little friend?

Codi nods.

CODI (BLUNT)

Yeah, it has been a while. I want to see what other trouble he has gotten into.

They put on their headsets.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

This could be interesting, mind if I tag along?

Codi folds her arms and look to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

You can’t fool me, you just want to be a good little Exec and protect your crew from the nasty commander.

Nikolai is taken aback but Codi smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

But it would probably be a good idea since I might tear him from limb from limb if there isn’t any progress.

Nikolai smiles and they switch there headsets on. Then they get up and head for the door. He hits a large button on it with the symbol of a hatch, the door slides open. They both step out and the hatch closes behind them.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship is a corvette (quarter thee size of a frigate with a very small bay and a few light guns) that slowly makes its way through a field of huge chucks of ice the size of icebergs. The word “Kalatir:” appears. After a few seconds “Fallen Heroes!” appears next to it.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a standard corridor with metal walls and a few hatches. Set into one of the walls is an air vent, the grate has been removed and leans up against the wall next to it. Boris Miclenho is standing here. He is a young man with red short hair who is wearing a Minsk uniform with metal symbols of wrenches on it. Codi and Nikolai are walking down the hall, they come to a stop next to him.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

How’s he doing Boris?

Boris turns to them first recognizing them, he smiles.

BORIS (RUSSIAN ACCENT, PLEASED)

Commander, Exec, it is a pleasure to see you both.

Codi folds her arms.

CODI (STERN)

The Exec Officer asked you a question Lead Maintenance Tech.

Boris becomes more professional.

BORIS (BLUNT)

I’ve been working him like a dog, ma’am. Just like you ordered.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good, I want to see him.

BORIS (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am!

Boris mumbles into his headset for a few moments and then looks back to Codi.

BORIS (BLUNT)

He is on his way out now.

Noise comes from the duct, loud banging. It gets louder and louder until Vladimir Vladivostok steps out. He is a fairly handsome man wearing maintenance overalls which are covered with dust and dirt. He has on a respirators and a headset, in his hand is a small vacuum. As he crawls out he slips the respirator down around his neck, he smiles.

VLADIMIR (RUSSIAN ACCENT, PLEASED)

I’m so glad to be out of there.

Vladimir stands up. When he sees Codi he is not so happy.

VLADIMIR (DISRESPECTFUL)

Oh, it is only you.

Codi takes the comment is stride but Nikolai does not.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

You will show your commander some respect Gator!

Vladimir looks over to Nikolai.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

I only show respect to those who have earned it, like you sir.

Nikolai points at Vladimir.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

You watch yourself Vladimir! She can easily assign you this duty permanently!

VLADIMIR (SMUG)

The Legion tries to intimidate us with threats in the same matter but we have no respect for them.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Why you little-

Codi holds up her hand in a stop motion.

CODI (INTERRUPTING, STERN)

That is enough Exec, I can speak for myself.

Everyone looks to Codi while Nikolai fumes.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

You got what you deserved, Gator. You were constantly showing up late for duty, slow in following commands, and generally getting sloppy in your work. I assigned you this to give yourself some time to reflect on your actions.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

I’d rather serve down here than share a bridge with you.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

I must protest, commander! Please let me speak my mind to him!

Codi shakes her head.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, I think it would be better if we let him do that. Permission to speak freely, Gator.

Vladimir pauses for a moment.

VLADIMIR (HONEST)

Personally commander, I had nothing to complain about you. In fact, I respected you. When I came aboard the Minsk I heard nothing but praise for you from her crew from Command Control. This was reinforced on the missions we were sent on. You proved to know your stuff, more than most humans. You were resourceful, cunning and smart. You could really send The Legion running.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Then what changed?

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

This mission. We were sent out to the Prebara Ice Fields on patrol. The problem is unlike the Melbari Asteroid cluster nothing ever happens out here. No miners to protect, no Legion to root out, not even pirates. The ice out her is contaminated so no one wants to be out here. The patrol we are on is designed for new recruits, not seasoned warriors like us. We being here is just a joke.

CODI (BLUNT)

I will admit, I’m bored out of my skull. But we are warriors, we follow orders. And our orders are to patrol the fields. Period!

VLADIMIR (STERN)

Oxidation! Word has it that you requested this patrol! That you wanted to be out here! Rumor has it you have turned yellow! I can’t work under someone who is a coward!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Forgive me commander but I can’t stay silent anymore!

Codi looks to Nikolai but says nothing, so he looks to Vladimir.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

For your information we’re not out here because of the commander but were out here because of me!

Vladimir looks to Nikolai confused.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

After out last mission on meeting with the Felina government I struck up a rapport with them, I’m an ambassador to them. Since Command Control wants to open the door between us and the Felinions they wanted to dry dock me and the Minsk. To protect me because if anything should happen to me the entire negotiation process could fall apart. So we are stuck in this awful mission because of me, not the commander!

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

If that is true then why did Command Control allow you to come out here?

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

That was again my doing. I was just as antsy to get back into the war with The Legion as you. Because of that I convinced Command Control that it would look bad to Felina if my ship just sat around and did nothing, to show that I was part of the human process and not some lazy diplomat. Command Control knew nothing ever happens out here so it would be safe for me.

Vladimir looks to Codi.

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

Is this true?

Codi nods.

CODI (HONEST)

Yes.

Vladimir hangs his head.

VLADIMIR (ASHAMED)

I owe you an apology commander. My actions were most inappropriate and inexcusable. I don’t deserve a commander as wise and kind as you.

Codi smiles.

CODI (REASSURING)

It is okay, Vladimir. I know it is hard to change loads so quickly. You are forgiven.

Vladimir looks up to Codi.

VLADIMIR (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Codi looks over to Boris.

CODI (BLUNT)

The Gator is going to return to his post on the bridge. Get him cleaned up.

BORIS (PLEASED)

Yes ma’am.

Vladimir smiles to Codi and she smiles back. Then Boris leads him away, Nikolai looks to Codi.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

With all due respect, commander. I think you let him off too easy.

Codi looks to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

Perhaps but he did do us a favor.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

He did?

Codi nods.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

He got our minds off this horrible patrol for a few MiniYerks.

Nikolai chuckles and Codi smiles. When they settle down he looks to her.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Well I have to run now. Lena wanted me to swing by. Something she wanted to talk to me about.

CODI (TEASING)

Oh, maybe she wants to ask you out.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

We’re just friends, nothing more! We’d rather talk about bashing Legion than love!

Codi giggles. Nikolai turns and walks away in a huff.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship continues to make its way slowly around the ice.

INT. MINSK - LENA'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. Scattered around the room are hard clear plastic sheets that have schematics on them, the room is a mess. Lena Pagoda is seated at the desk, she is a fairly attractive woman with red hair and wearing a standard Minsk uniform which has gold wrench symbols on it. Standing next to her is Nikolai. They are watching some sort of movie on the computer. On the screen is Catherine Welchof who is tall, attractive and is a blonde. She is wearing a skimpy little cheerleading uniform. Sitting on a chair before her is Nikolai. Both of them are a few years younger then they are now. The scene is taking place in some sort of lunch room but they seem to be the only two there. She playfully does her cheer but he is a bit dumbfounded.

CATHERINE (OVER SCREEN, RUSSIAN ACCENT, CHEERING)

Give me an L… Give me an O… Give mee a V… Give me and E… What does that spell? Love! Love! Love! Which is what I feel for Nikolai!

Catherine finishes her cheer and juumps into his lap, she wraps an arm around his shoulders and looks into his eyes. He is still confused. Lena points to the screen.

LENA (RUSSIAN ACCENT, EXCITED)

Oh this is my favorite part!>

On the screen Nikolai looks to Cathherine confused.

NIKOLAI (OVER SCREEN, CONFUSED)

What are you trying to say?<

Lena can be heard laughing in the backgground and Catherine joins in, Nikolai is still confused. After several moments she regains her composure and holds his face in both hands, she looks keep into his eyes.

CATHERINE (OVER SCREEN, GIGGLING)

Perhaps you need a visual demonstraation.

Catherine kisses him passionately oon the lips. After first Nikolai doesn’t know what to make of it but then his instincts kick in, he grabs her and kisses her back. This makes Lena smile at the screen but Nikolai seems a bit upset.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

That is enough!

Nikolai reaches out to the computerr and pushes a button, a small disk pops out. Lena looks to him confused.

LENA (CONFUSED)

Why did you do that?

Nikolai glares at Lena.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

I could ask the same thing about yoou!

Lena looks to him confused and Nikolai sees this.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

That was Catherine on the screen! MMy dead lover! The girl I would do anything to bring back to life! Even if it meant sacrificing myself! And you play this VR like it is some joke!

Lena folds her arms and glares at Nikollai.

LENA (DEFENSIVE)

I hardly call the first time Catherrine professed her love to you a joke.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

This only reminds me how much I misss her! What did you expect my reaction to be?

LENA (DEFENSIVE)

As it was intended. As I remember hher. Of all the great times you two had together. Of all the fun you had with her. I thought you would have gotten a kick out of me finding it while I cleaned my quarters and share it with you.

Lena reaches for the disk but Nikolai ggrabs her wrist, she looks up to him confused.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

Don’t give me that Oxidation! Look at this place!

Lena looks around at the mess.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

It hasn’t cleaned for KiloYerks! Itt is apparent you are trying to hurt me but the question is why?

Lena glares at Nikolai and he looks bacck, she sees hurt in his eyes. She sighs.

LENA (REASSURING)

I would never hurt you Nikolai, at least not on purpose.

Nikolai glares at her for a moment and then eases off, he lets go of Lena.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

You know I feel the same way about you, Lena. We are the best of friends. So why did you do this? Why did you try and stir up all these old memories?

Lena pauses to collect herself.<

LENA (HONEST)

To see that you were over Catherinee yet.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I loved her, more than anything in the world. I can never be over her death.

LENA (UNDERSTANDING)

I know, the pain will never fully ggo away but it could be offset with someone new. Someone special. Someone you could learn to love.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What are you trying to say?<

Lena looks down.

LENA (BLUNT)

Look, Ivan told me about the littlee incident at the bar back on Mars. Of how that waitress was hitting on you yet you gave her the cold shoulder. There was a chance for love but brushed it off. Why?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Because it turns out Ivan is as badd of an actor as you but that waitress was worse. I knew he had set us up, he had fed her all these great lines about me. He confessed to it all afterwards. Are you two in cahoots with each other?

Lena looks up and shakes her head quickkly.

LENA (STERN)

Absolutely not! We may be working ttowards the same goal but it is strictly independently. I swear!

Nikolai studies Lena’s face and smiiles.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I believe Lena. Besides, if you werre involved it would have been set up better.

Lena is relieved but she is also concerrned.

LENA (CONCERNED)

But the question is if she hadn’t bbeen prodded, if she hadn’t been coworsed would you still have said no?

Nikolai doesn’t even pause to thinkk before he nods.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Yes.

Lena looks away sadden.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

So you aren’t ready to get on with your life, you are still holding onto Catherine.

Nikolai places his hand on her shouulder and Lena looks up to him, he smiles down to her.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

The reason I would refuse her was II’m not the kind of guy that asks a girl out because she has a great set of Ultra-Lights or a face that could stop the Legion in their tracks. I just got lucky in that department when it came to Catherine. What I look for in a girl is what is up here.

Nikolai points to his head.<

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

And what is in here.

Nikolai points to his chest.>

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Because of that it is going to takee me longer than most. So maybe it will take five, ten or even fifty trips to that bar before I know for sure.

Lena pauses to think and then smiles.

LENA (UNDERSTANDING)

That’s right, you and Catherine worrked side by side for over two KiloYearks before you started dating. I should have realized that. I’m sorry.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Think nothing of it. I just appreciiated all the concern you and the others have for my well being. Thank you.

Nikolai and Lena look to one anotheer and smile.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

But to answer your question if the right girl did come into my life. If she was smart, caring and knew how to have fun. If I got to know her and like her I would hold onto her and never let her go.

Lena looks to him with hope in her eyess but he doesn’t pick up on this. Instead Nikolai grabs the disk and takes it, all the while her eyes are locked on him.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

So if you know anyone like that Lenna please let me know.

Nikolai turns and heads for the dooor, Lena looks to him as her mind races.

LENA (TO HERSELF, WHISPERS, THINKING)

This is your chance Lena…

Lena collects herself as the hatch opens.

LENA (HOPEFUL)

Actually, there is.

Nikolai stops and turns to Lena.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Oh? Who would that be?

Lena tries to respond but she can’t, her mind is a blank. He looks to her confused. Finally she sighs.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

I meant I’ll keep and eye out for you.

Nikolai looks to her confused but then shakes it off, he holds up the disk to Lena.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you for this.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

You’re welcome.

Nikolai then turns and leaves, the hatch closes. She stares at the door for several moments and then smacks herself in the forehead.

LENA (TO HERSELF, ANNOYED)

Lena you idiot! You had the perfect chance! But then you turn tail and run! You’re no better than the Legion!

Lena smacks herself again and then sighs, she sits there and wallows in her own self pity.

INT. MINSK – CODI’S QUARTERS

Codi is here but she has no clothes on, her thick fur covers all of her so we can’t see anything. Her clothes and headset are next to her bed. She is on her treadmill, she is running on all fours at a jogging pace. She seems to be doing it for fun than exercise. She hardly breaks into a sweat. Suddenly, for no apparent reason, she burst into full speed. The track below her can barely keep up. Then just as suddenly she leaps into the air and lands next to her large ball of yarn. She grabs it, tucks and does a roll. She ends up on her back, she lies there and tosses the yarn up and down and is having the time of her life. But as fast as she started she becomes bored, so she toss the yarn up and smacks it into the wall. She rolls over back onto all fours and then stands up, she looks around the room and sighs.

CODI (TO HERSELF, FRUSTRATED)

Well that killed five MiniYerks.

Codi sighs again as she folds her arms, she looks around the room. Her eyes stop on her bed on the floor.

CODI (TO HERSELF, FRUSTRATED)

Well if I can find anything exciting to do maybe I can dream up something.

Codi walks over to her bed, gets back down on all four and crawls on. She walks around in circles as she kneads it with her claws trying to make it more comfortable. Once she is satisfied she curls up and lies down, she closes her eyes. She sighs once more but this time it is out of satisfaction. She quickly drifts off into sleep.

NIKOLAI (OVER COMPUTER, BLUNT)

This is Exec Officer Solace to Commander Codi, please respond.

Codi’s ears perk up but she does not open her eyes.

NIKOLAI (OVER COMPUTER, BLUNT)

Repeating. This is Exec Officer Solace to Commander Codi, please respond. This is urgent.

Codi’s eyes spring open.

CODI (TO HERSELF, ANNOYED)

It never fails!

Codi gets up and goes over to the computer, on the screen is Nikolai as he is on the bridge.

CODI (TO COMPUTER, BLUNT)

This is Commander Codi to Exec Officer Solace, I read you.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (OVER COMPUTER, PLEASANT)

Sorry to disturb you in you quarters commander but your headset was apparently off.

CODI (TO COMPUTER, BLUNT)

What is it Exec?

NIKOLAI (OVER COMPUTER, EXPLAINING)

We are picking up a distress singular. We have pinpointed it to just outside the ice field near us, they are requesting help.

CODI (TO COMPUTER, BLUNT)

Seems like a no brainer, Exec. We are the UCF, we’re out here to help our allies. Set course for the disabled ship at best possible speed.

Nikolai shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (OVER COMPUTER, HONEST)

Actually, it isn’t that straight forward. The ship in trouble is a Legion frigate and they are requesting anyone’s help, UCF.

Codi looks to the screen shocked.

CODI (SHOCKED)

I’m on my way Exec, commander out!

Before Nicolai can respond Codi is off and running, she grabs her headset and clothes and races for the hatch. As she goes she starts dressing herself.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship continues to slowly make its way through the chucks of ice.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

This is a huge room with several different types of computer systems, but all of them are high-tech. 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. In the back of the room is a hatch with a familiar button next to it. Vladimir is seated at the Gator station, he is now back in his uniform. 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. Lena is seated at the Engineer Station. At the Comm Station is Golda Mystroski who is a lovely blonde who is intensely monitoring the station's screen who has golden symbols of computers on her shoulders. Nikolai is seated at the Command station, the Exec station is empty. Everyone in the room is wearing a standard headset with microphone but they also all have on one black glove which is covered with electronic sensors, some of them have it on their right and some on their left. Codi has a specially made one, this is what they use to issue commands at their work stations. They wiggle their fingers in a certain order then when snap their hand into a flat position to process the command. The hatch opens and Codi rushes in, she is dressed but haphazardly. Everyone looks to the door, when they see her they smile and go back to work. As she rushes towards them Nikolai gets up and steps down from the Command Station, Codi climbs up and into it. He takes his place at the Exec Station. Codi looks to her screens.

CODI (BLUNT)

Give me a run down Exec.

Nikolai looks to Codi.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

The Distress singular identified itself as the Patriot, a Democratic Legion Frigate. It reported that it was under attack but did not specify by whom. Before we could contact the ship the area was blanketed in jamming, nothing can go in or out.

Codi looks to Ivan.

CODI (CURIOUS)

What do the scans tell us?

IVAN (BLUNT)

Not a lot, the jamming is nothing like I have ever seen. Very intense. Before it started the scans reported that it was indeed a frigate, but like most Legion ships their ID and marking beacons were turned off but its configuration seem to be as they say. They had taken multiple major hits. Engines including Ultra-Light were gone, Quziis were almost nonexistent and all weapon systems had been knock offline. She was venting atmosphere is several places and the lifeform output was considerably low. With the jammers up I can’t even tell if she is still there.

CODI (CURIOUS)

Any indications of whom or what was attacking her?

Ivan shakes his head.

IVAN (EXPLAINING)

According to the scans she is the only ship out there. As far as I know she is attacking herself.

Codi pauses to think, then looks around the room.

CODI (BLUNT)

Thoughts?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

They want us to fly blind into a jamming field. Anything could be waiting for us in there. It is a trap.

LENA (BLUNT)

I have to agree with the Exec on this one ma’am.

IVAN (BLUNT)

I can smell treachery a KiloMilli away, the stench of conspiracy fills my nose on this one.

Golda rolls her eyes, Codi continues to look around the room but smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

I must concur to you on this one, that is why we’re going to their aide.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Huh?

LENA (CONFUSED)

What?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

This smells like a trap yet it is too obvious, even for the Legion. They could come up with something better. It is not out of their capabilities to disguise their ship as one of ours, then we would be forced to comply. But to openly confess they are Legion requesting help is a bit much. There is something bigger going on here and I want to know exactly what.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

But what would be the point even if it isn’t a trap? If we just sit back that is one less Legion ship we have to worry about.

CODI (BLUNT)

I know Command Control’s directive is to wipe out the Legion, they have declared war on us but I see things differently. Though we have pretty much beaten them I see no point in utterly destroying them.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But you of all people should know the danger of a truce. The Prevaricates, the canine enemies of your race, nearly wiped you out yet you came to peace terms with them. But instead of becoming allies you imprison them on Tethys Minor. Like all prisoners you have to feed and care for them, they have become a burden to you. Would it not have been better to wipe them out?

Codi glares at Nikolai.

CODI (ANGRY)

Don’t quote Felinion history to me Exec!

Nikolai is taken aback and Codi regains her composure.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

But I see where you are coming from. That is why it would be better than imprisoning or wiping out the Legion all together that we come together as one, to work together to rebuilding your race. There are so few humanoids left in the universe as it is.

Codi looks around but the others pause to think at what she has said.

CODI (BLUNT)

As I have stated, these are my views and go totally against Command Control. You would have every right to have me arrested and thrown into detention. Regardless, I feel strongly on this and will not change my mind. The next action is up to you. What do you say?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

With Legion involved I can’t totally agree with you, commander.

Codi nods but doesn’t take offense, Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

But I think everyone has a right to their opinion so I’m not going to arrest you.

Codi smiles to Nikolai.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

I agree with Nikolai but I’m more interested in the ramifications of this. I mean, a frigate is nearly destroyed with no one around. This definitely needs to be investigated, especially since it looks like we may have a new ally.

Codi nods to Lena.

IVAN (EXPLAINING)

You helped me to realize conspiracy, commander. That there are unseen forces working all around us. You also taught me not to fear such power but to face it head on, I say we do as you want.

GOLDA (SMUG)

And Ivan you have helped me learn what a crackpot you really are.

Ivan glares at Golda, even Codi doesn’t find it funny but says nothing. So she looks to Vladimir.

CODI (BLUNT)

So what do you say Gator?

Vladimir pauses for the longest time and then smiles.

VLADIMIR (SMUG)

Whether this is a trap or not I don’t really care. If it is a chance to break this boredom I say go for it.

Codi smiles to Vladimir.

CODI (PLEASED)

Then it is agreed.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I’m behind you and everyone in this room all the way. But are we just going to blindly fly into this mess?

Codi looks to Nikolai.

CODI (REASSURING)

I may be head strong on this but I’m not stupid. Scramble the Battleships, they will check it out.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Now you are talking!

Golda starts mumbling into her headset. Codi looks to Vladimir.

CODI (BLUNT)

Gator, set course for that ship at one eighth, I want to give the Battleships plenty of time to arrive before us.

VLADIMIR (PLEASED)

Yes ma’am.

Vladimir starts using his Instructer to issue commands, everyone springs into action.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship turns and heads away from the ice.

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 begins to sound.

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 sidearm.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

We're at complete yellow status.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Minskian one and two are lowered annd ready to launch while three and four are standing by.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good, link me up with all Minskians.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Golda uses her Instructer and 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.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, REASSURING)

Minskians one and two will launch wwhile three and four will remain on deck in reserve.

Minskian One shows no emotion whilee Two is pleased, Three and Four are dissatisfied.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

Your prime objective is to sniff ouut the disabled ship. As stated, this is a Legion vessel and has been discovered under dubious circumstances. There is a good possibility that this is a trap. So all I want you to do is get in there, evaluate and report back and we’ll decide how to proceed. If you are attacked or ambushed fall back at once, the odds will definitely be against you. Any questions?

MINSKIAN THREE (RUSSIAN ACCENT, OVER HEADSET, CONFUSED)

If this seems to be a trap and thiss is the enemy we are facing why are we even risking going in?

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

Because on the off chance this is nnot a trap but the real deal they could be very grateful towards us. Maybe even give us an edge of the war. Because of that you are not to fire on that ship under any circumstances. Any other questions?

No one responds.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, PLEASED)

Then let’s get to it.

The pilots salute her and then the screen goes blank.

EXT. UNDERNEATH MINSK (OPTICAL) - CCLOSE SHOT

The twin decks below are lowered annd 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, on the tails are silhouettes of Siberia.

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 deck of the bottom fighter foldds down and the ships drifts free of the Minsk, it peels off. Once it is clear the top deck unfolds and the other fighter drifts free of the ship and follows the first.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot flies the ship and the reeflection of him flying through space 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.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HEADSET)

Minskian Two. Unfold battle wings.<

MINSKIAN TWO

(OVER HEADSET)

Unfolding.

EXT. MINSKIAN ONE AND MINSKIAN TWO IN ICE FIELD (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 HELMET)

Flip your Quziis to triple layer.

The pilot flips a switch.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

Done.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HEADSET)

Well let’s not keep the Legion waitting. Engage your Turbo Inflator.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET)

Engaging.

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

The ships accelerate forward.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is busy working.

IVAN (BLUNT)

The Battleships have left the Ice FField and are approaching the jamming area.

Codi looks to Golda.

CODI (BLUNT)

Inform the Battleships to have theiir Light Conversion on standby in case they need to get out there in a hurry.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Golda starts mumbling into her headdset.

EXT. MINSKIAN ONE AND MINSKIAN TWO NEAR PATRIOT (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Frigate is four times the size of the Minsk with a small bay and additional guns. The ship looks like it is in bad shape, it drifts there on its own. The Battleships quickly approaches it but then decelerate.

MINSKIAN ONE (VOICE OVER, HEAVY STATIC, BLUNT)

There she is!

MINSKIAN TWO (VOICE OVER, HEAVY STATIC, BLUNT)

The only thing on my scans is statiic.

INT. MINSKIAN ONE - COCKPIT<

The pilot is working his controls aas he flies, there is a loud buzz of static.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, HEAVY STATIC, BLUNT)

We’re going to have to run this on visual with all this jamming.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, HEAVY STATIC, BLUNT)

Once we go in there we are going too lose contact.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, HEAVY STATIC, BLUNT)

Then let’s see if we can’t pinpointt the source of the jamming from here. Once we do we will converge on that target. If we can take it out all our troubles will be over.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, HEAVY STATIC, BLUNT)

We can try and-

Suddenly the static is gone, the piilot checks his instruments.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, SHOCKED)

The jamming, it is gone. How did yoou do that?

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, CONFUSED)

I didn’t do a thing. I swear.

COMM OFFICER (OVER HELMET, FRANTIC)

Repeating! This is the Democratic LLegion frigate Patriot requesting immediate assistance! We are under attack!

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, BLUNT)

This is Minskian one, Battleship Leeader from the United Communistic Force corvette Minsk! We are here to assist.

There is a long silence.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, BLUNT)

Did you copy that Patriot?

There is another long pause.>

COMM OFFICER (OVER HELMET, BLUNT)

Yes, but we were hoping for an allyy instead not an enemy.

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, ANNOYED)

We’ll leave if you like.

COMM OFFICER (OVER HELMET, FRANTIC)

No! We are crippled and completely disabled! We will take any help we can get!

MINSKIAN ONE (INTO HELMET, SMUG)

Fine.

Minskian Two can be heard laughing in the background.

COMM OFFICER (OVER HELMET, FRANTIC)

But before we proceed we must warn you. You are not alone out there! There is a-

EXT. MINSKIAN ONE AND MINSKIAN TWO NEAR PATRIOT (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

As the ship drifts helplessly theree are multiple explosions all around the Patriot. The ship then explodes throwing debris is all directions. The heavier stuff is not thrown that far but the smaller pieces reach the Battleships, they manage to avoid them all.

INT. MINSKIAN TWO - COCKPIT<

This is just like Minskian One, thee pilot looks to the debris outside the cockpit.

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, ANNOYED)

Oxidation! Her Power Planets must hhave given out.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, CONFUSED)

How could they? They were both downn! Something else took her out.

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, BLUNT)

It had to be the ship that attackedd her!

The pilot checks his instruments.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, CONFUSED)

But nothing is on our scans.>

MINSKIAN ONE (OVER HELMET, BLUNT)

Initiate a cross search pattern. Loook behind every chuck of debris and keep your eyes glued on your scans, I want to know what the Sepcor is going on here!

MINSKIAN TWO (INTO HELMET, BLUNT)

I copy that!

The pilot begins to work his controols.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is checking their instrumeents but they are kind of bewildered. Codi looks to Ivan.

CODI (CONFUSED)

There is nothing left?

Ivan shakes his head.

IVAN (B LUNT)

No life readings, no lifeboats, nott even a shuttle.

Codi sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

That is a shame.

LENA (BLUNT)

Yeah, we could have extracted some good information from any survivors.

Codi glares at Lena.

CODI (STERN)

I was talking about the loss of liffe!

Lena shrugs her shoulders and Codi calmms down.

CODI (BLUNT)

The Battleships can make a few passses in the area before we can reach them. When we get there we’ll pick them up and clear the area. Notify them of this.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Golda mumbles into her headset as CCodi looks sad, Nikolai sees this.

EXT. MINSKIAN ONE AND MINSKIAN TWO NEAR DEBRIS (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Battleships continue their searrch in a zigzagging pattern, the ships are working independently. Close by is the Minsk, it is moving towards them.

MINSKIAN ONE (VOICE OVER, BLUNT)

Looks like our ride is here. Preparre to-

A ship pulls out from behind a largge chunk of the Patriot and slips behind Minskian One, this is the Klatera. The craft is about quarter the size of the Minsk but sleeker. She ship closes in on its target.

MINSKIAN TWO (INTERRUPTING, VOICE OVER, EXCITED)

Minskian Leader! You have an adverssary on your tail!

MINSKIAN ONE (VOICE OVER, CONFUSED)

I don’t show anything on my scans.<

MINSKIAN TWO (VOICE OVER, BLUNT)

Either do I but I can see it as plaain as DecaYerk! Perform evasive maneuvers now!

MINSKIAN ONE (VOICE OVER, CONFUSED)

How can I if I can’t see him?

MINSKIAN TWO (VOICE OVER, EXCITED)

Deposits!

Minskian Two speeds towards the neww ship, it opens fire. The lasers hit the target and shakes some but it does not slow it down.

MINSKIAN TWO (VOICE OVER, EXCITED)

I didn’t even dent it! I’m chargingg up my light explosives!

But before anything can happen therre is an explosion near Minskian Two. It is so great it takes out the ship, nothing is left.

MINSKIAN ONE (VOICE OVER, CONFUSED)

Minskian Two?

PILOT (VOICE OVER, STERN)

He’s gone and so will you if you atttack or try to escape!

The new ship continues to follow Miinskian One.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

The lights on each station are quicckly flashing red now, a new siren is sounding. A new Marine stands next to the other one, this one has a laser rifle slung over his shoulder. Everyone is busy working.

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!

Codi looks to Ivan.

CODI (URGENT)

Any luck?

Ivan smashes his fist to his consolle.

IVAN (FRUSTRATED)

I have run every scan I know but I can’t spot the enemy!

LENA (BLUNT)

But according to Minskian Two it iss only invisible electronically, not to the naked eye.

VLADIMIR (FRUSTRATED)

What I wouldn’t do for a window rigght now!

CODI (STERN)

It wouldn’t matter, our weapons cann’t be targeted manually.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

But the Battelships can. I suggest we launch Minskians three and four.

CODI (BLUNT)

If we did they would surely destroyy Minskian Leader.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Well if we do nothing we are surelyy going to be next!

Codi pauses to think and then sighss.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

Unfortunately, you are right Exec. The Minsk comes first.

Codi looks to Golda but Ivan nearlyy jumps out of his seat.

IVAN (SHOCKED)

Oxidization Deposits! Were smack inn the middle of a minefield!

Everyone looks to Ivan shocked.

EXT. MINSK NEAR DEBRIS (OPTICAL) – CLOSE SHOT

There are many small metallic spherres around the ship.

INT. BRIDGE

Everyone is still looking to Ivan sshocked.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Why didn’t you detect this sooner SScan Officer!

Ivan looks to Codi.

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

One MicroYerk they weren’t there annd the next they were!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

They must use the same visibility ttechnology that ship out there is using!

GOLDA (CURIOUS)

Interesting how they can turn it onn and off at will.

LENA (EXCITED)

They must be remotely controlled, tthat is how they destroyed the Patriot and the Battleship without firing a shot!

IVAN (SHOCKED)

From the number I’m picking up theyy could easily take us out!

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

Well we got what we wanted, a targeet. I say you start firing.

CODI (BLUNT)

I’m sure as soon as we started theyy would detonate them, we can’t destroy them all at once. They have us by the tail!

Codi looks around the room.<

CODI (APOLOGETIC)

You were all right, this was a trapp and I walked right into it. I should have listened to you.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

We all agreed to proceed so we are in this together.

LENA (SUPPORTIVE)

This means we will have to figure aa way out together.

Codi smiles to them all and they smmile back, all but Golda.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

The attacker is trying to contract us, commander.

Codi pauses and everyone looks to hher.

CODI (BLUNT)

Path them through.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Golda uses her Instructer as Codi llooks to a screen but it just comes up blank.

GOLDA (EXPLAINING)

They are only singling in audio.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

I wish to speak to the commander off your ship.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

This is the commander. Whom am I sppeaking to?

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

I think you have more important mattters to attend to.

Codi looks to the blank screen oddlly but says nothing.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

As you have noticed your ship is suurrounded by mines, we could easily destroy your ship in the blink of an eye.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

Let me guess, you expect us to surrrender.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

On the contrary, all we ask that yoou give us your word that there will be no more acts of hostiles from you or your crew.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, CONFUSED)

Huh?

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Yes, we did lead you into a trap buut it is not to destroy you but so we can talk.

Codi pauses to think.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

I’m listening.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

No, what we need to discuss can’t bbe over an open channel. It must be face to face.

Codi sighs.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

So you want me to come over to yourr ship so I can be a hostage.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Actually, we wanted to come over too your ship.

There is a long pause as Codi thinkks.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

As a token of good faith we do thiss.

Codi looks to the screen confuse buut Ivan looks to her.

IVAN (EXCITED)

Commander! The mines have just deacctivated themselves!

Codi looks to Ivan, confused.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Your Battleship is free to return tto you and you my jump to Ultra-Light if you wish, we will not try and stop you. But it would be advantageous to you, to both of us, that we were to meet as planned.

Codi looks back to the blank screenn and thinks.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

Very well, I accept your terms.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

You can’t be serious!

Codi holds up her hand in a stop mootion.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

I won’t fire on you if you don’t fiire on us. You will be treated as guests aboard our ship and can leave as you wish.

PILOT (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

A wise decision, commander. We willl come along side and dock. We look forward to meeting you.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

As do I.

Golda checks her instruments.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

They have disconnected.

Nikolai glares at Codi.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Are you crazy? They destroyed one oof our ships and have the means to do the same to us!

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

They destroyed the battle ship out of self defense! They could have easily destroyed the other and us but choose not to! Instead they wish to talk! They have gone to a lot of trouble to meet us I want to know why!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

I can tell you why! They want this ship intact! They are Legion! That is why they only talked in audio!

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

So the Legion destroyed their own sship, a ship bigger than ours no less, just to capture a corvette?

Nikolai pauses to thing.

NIKOLAI (AWKWARD)

Well, maybe they are pirates.

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

If that is the case wouldn’t they ttry this trick the frigate, a much better prize.

Nikolai pauses again.

NIKOLAI (AWKWARD)

Maybe they did and it failed.

Codi sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

I won’t deny this plan is not withoout risks but if it is a chance to get out hands on that advanced technology, some of which puts even Felinion technology to shame, I say it is worth it.

Lena nods.

LENA (BLUNT)

I have to agree with the commander.. They would be formable allies.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

And if they don’t want to be our alllies?

Codi smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

Their ship will be docked to ours. Even if it is invisible to us our Battleships can easily disable it. Plus we will have a hostage on board.

GOLDA (CONCERNED)

You are going to go against your woord?

CODI (SMUG)

That all depends on them.

Everyone looks to Codi confused.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA NEAR DEBRIS (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Minsk comes to a stop as the Baattleship heads off on patrol, Minskian three and four launch from the decks and joins them. The Klatera pulls up along side the corvette and docks.

INT. MINSK – DOCKING PORT #7>

This is a standard corridor with ann airlock. Codi is here along with Nikolai and the Sergeant of the Marines. Flanking the hall are Marines which are wearing heavy battle armor on their chests and riot helmets, they standby ready for action. A Maintenance Tech is operating some controls next to the airlock. The Sergeant looks to Codi.

SERGEANT (STERN)

I must protest once again, commandeer. You are letting hostiles aboard the Minsk. We have no idea who they are, their technology prevents us from producing scans. Also…

The Sergeant’s voice trails off wheen Nikolai places his hand on her shoulder, she looks to him.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Save your energy, Sergeant. I’ve trried to convince her the same until I was blue in the face. She won’t budge.

SERGEANT (STERN)

Well if you must proceed then at leeast allow me to take your place, commander. I can pretend to be you so we can see what their intentions are.

CODI (BLUNT)

I am no frighten kitten, Marine! I will not cower in the shadows! This is my ship and my responsibility! I will face them!

SERGEANT (PLEADING)

Well can we at least minimize the rrisk. The Exec doesn’t need to be here.

Codi pauses to think.

CODI (THINKING)

You may have a point there.<

The Sergeant smiles and Codi looks to Nikolai, he seems rather disappointed. She sees this and smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

Then again the Exec is as stubborn as I. No, he will stay.

NIKOLAI (GRATEFUL)

Thank you.

Codi nods to Nikolai and the Sergeaant throws up his arms.

SERGEANT (FRUSTRATED)

I give up!

Codi smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

A wise choice.

Nikolai chuckles. The Maintenance TTech turns to Codi.

TECH (BLUNT)

The seal is complete, commander. Thhe hatch on the other side is open but no one has entered the chamber yet. I can open the hatch when you are ready.

Codi looks to the Tech.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, I can handle that. You might ass well run along.

SERGEANT (BLUNT)

Yes, things could turn ugly.>

Codi ignores the comment. The Tech salutes her and she salutes back, he leaves. She then looks to the Sergeant.

CODI (BLUNT)

Are all critical stations being guaarded Sergeant?

SERGEANT (PROUD)

By my best Marines, commander.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good, have the Marine in this corriidor fall back.

SERGEANT (CONFUSED)

Excuse me ma’am?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

First impressions are critical, if they step onto this ship with lazs pointed at them then they are likely to turn around and leave, I don’t want that.

SERGEANT (CONFUSED)

But what if this is a trap? If thiss is an ambush?

CODI (BLUNT)

That is why you will keep your Mariines close by but out of sight.

The Sergeant is about to protest buut Codi glares at her, she sees it is futile. So she turns to her Marines.

SERGEANT (STERN)

Marines fall back! Get out of sightt but keep your ears open!

The Marines do as they are told. Whhen the hallway is clear the Sergeant looks to Codi.

SERGEANT (BLUNT)

Can I at least stay?

Codi looks to the Sergeant and thenn nods.

CODI (BLUNT)

Yes but provided that you keep you mouth shut and your gun holstered.

SERGEANT (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am!

Codi looks to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

Ready Exec?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

As ready as I will ever be.<

Codi steps up to the controls to thhe hatch, she begins to work them. The door opens and she steps back. They hear a rhythmic tapping, it is getting louder and louder. Someone is coming, they look to the hatch. After a few seconds Miwea Karrroiq steps into view. He is an older Felinion male with brown fur and purple spots. All that he wears are wide wrist and ankle bands, he also has a headband. They are made of metal and have heliographic etched into them. The headband also has a large disk set into it made of gold, it has the image of a paw with extended claws slicing through the air. In his hand he has a well worn wooden staff, it too has heliographic on it. There are several parts of his body that has scars and some parts where the fur has fallen out and refuses to grow back. The most notable is the left side of his which has been damaged severally, over his eve is an eye patch made of animal skin. His left leg is also damaged to the extent where he can’t put any weight on it but he can still move it around, he uses his cane for this. Nikolai and the Sergeant are a bit dismayed by the sight of him but Codi looks to him in awe.

CODI (SHOCKED)

Miwea Karrroiq? Is that really you??

Miwea stops before them, both Felinnions sniff each other and then smile.

MIWEA (IMPRESSED)

Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea. It honors me that you remember an old warrior.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You know him?

CODI (PROUD )

Know him? He is my father!

Everyone looks confused to her, Miwwea smiles proudly. Codi grabs him and hugs him tight, he hugs her with his free hand. They both look emotional.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But how can this be? You’re supposee to be dead!

The Sergeant is confused. The two FFelinions break apart and push their feelings aside.

CODI (CONFUSED)

That’s right! You were killed in ann accident, a shuttle accident. You hung on for DecaYerks in a comma but you never came out of it. I mourned your loss.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

That is what the Court of Chaw wantted you to believe. As you can see, I did come out of the comma but I was just a shell of a warrior that I once was. Crippled and useless I requested that the Court declare myself dead, I didn’t want my last few KiloYerks to be a focus of pity. Fearing that ramifications of their greatest warrior, the leader against the revolt, would project they agreed. After my death was announced I left Felina fearing my secret would be exposed. So I came out here with a few loyal warriors.

CODI (CONFUSED)

But if this is true why didn’t you tell me, your only daughter, that her father still lives?

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

At the time it was not possible. Yoou see, the crash that shattered my body was no accident. It was an attempt to kill me by some of my old enemies. While the general public accepted my death they did not, they exercised all their resources to verify my death. That was part of the Court’s plan. This exposed them. They were watching you, even though you had already been exiled from Felina.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Exiled?

Miwea looks to Nikolai.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

Who is this humanoid?

Codi pauses a moment then indicatess to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

This is my Exec, Nikolai Solace.

Miwea smiles to Nikolai.

MIWEA (SMUG)

Ah, the famous humanoid ambassador that was recently tested by the court.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I already know my history so pleasee answer my question. What do you mean she was exiled?

Miwea looks to Codi and asks her soomething in their native language, she gives a brief explanation back in the same language. He nods and says something back only she can understand. Then he looks to Nikolai.

MIWEA (APOLOGETIC)

Please forgive me, my humanoid is nnot that well versed as my daughters. I meant to say she had already left Felina to pursue her life out here.

Nikolai studies Miwea who just smilles back, he doesn’t seem that convinced.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

If it was dangerous for both you annd the commander to meet then why are you risking this meeting now?

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Fortunately, justice has just been administered to the last of my enemies that wanted me dead by the Court so we are no longer in danger. That is why I have been allowed to continue my duties of a warrior.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Which brings me to another questionn-

MIWEA (INTERRUPTING, BLUNT)

Forgive my rudeness Exec, but we doon’t have time to debate this. Just like you were able to pick up the distress of the frigate so was the Legion. You can be assured that they are on their way here and in force. With our technology they won’t be able to find us. But as for your ship that is not the case. We need to leave here at once. If you will follow us back into the ice field we can take you to a place of safety.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Where can it be safe?

Miwea ignores Nikolai and looks to Codi.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

You know me daughter, you know thatt I don’t exaggerate when it comes to my enemies. You know it is urgent that we leave at once and when I tell you that you and your ship will be safe you know it is true. Will you allow me to lead you away?

Codi nods and then smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Only if you promise that once we arre safe we will all sit out and all our questions will be answered.

Miwea smiles.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

I’ll gladly keep that promise.

Codi and Miwea smile to one anotherr, then she looks to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

Prepare to cast off my father’s shiip once he returns to it.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But-

CODI (STERN)

That was not a request but an orderr Exec!

Nikolai looks to Codi and she glarees at him, he nods to her.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes commander.

Codi looks to Miwea and smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Until we meet again father.<

Miwea smiles and nods, then he turnns and heads back into the airlock. Codi turns to leave.

CODI (BLUNT)

If you need me Exec I’ll be on the bridge.

Codi walks away, once the Felinion is inside Nikolai goes over to the controls and seals it. Then he looks over to the Sergeant.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

I have a bad feeling about this.

SERGEANT (HONEST)

I second that.

Nikolai and the Sergeant look to onne another with concern.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA NEAR DEBRIS (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Battleships are being recoveredd by the Minsk as the Klatera separates from the ship and moves away.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is at there stations and bbusy at work, though Nikolai is giving a halfhearted effort. Vladimir looks to Codi.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

We have reentered the ice field andd are still following the Klatera.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good.

LENA (CURIOUS)

I wonder how they can turn on and ooff their electronic visibility so easily?

NIKOLAI (TO HIMSELF, WHISPERS, BLUNT)

That is not the question I’m concerrned about.

Codi ears perk up but she does not look to him.

CODI (BLUNT)

Is there something you want to sharre with the group Exec?

Nikolai hesitates to consider his aanswer.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

It is just that I’m sure that we alll have questions that were all dying to ask.

Codi looks around the room, no one answers but she can see they are curious as well. She smiles.

CODI (HONEST)

I guess this has really caught you all by surprise as much as it has me. So I’ll try to fill in the details.

Codi collects herself to think wherre to begin.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Way back when I use to live on Feliina my parents were humble peasants, trying to make a living supporting their family.

GOLDA (CONFUSED)

But I thought all Felinion kittens were separated at birth and raised by the government. They don’t know who there parents are.

Codi looks to Golda.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

This was before the Prevaricate Revvolt, back then kittens knew who their parents were. A couple could choose who their mate was and stick to them for life. They were happier times.

Codi pauses to reflex, she even smiiles. But that doesn’t last long.

CODI (COLD)

But then the Prevaricates rose up aagainst us, they slaughtered my people. It came so swift and quick my parents were only able to save me and my sister. We fled the towns and cities into the forest. The Court was locked in their castle but with their armies wiped out they couldn’t help us. We were cut off from the rest of the world with no food or shelter it was only a matter of time before we died too. That is until one of us stepped forward, a common paw soldier. He rallied us all together. He sent the word out that if we were to survive it would be working together. We pooled our resources and started planning our revenge. He would turn out to be the savior to Felinions.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Miwea.

Codi smiles and nods.

CODI (PLEASED)

Yes. He organized us into an army. He tested and studied each one of us and depending on your specialties that is what you become in the resistance. My father knew a lot about medicine and tending to the injured so he became a field medic. My mother had always been the great protector, so she became a warrior. Though my sister and I were too young to fight we helped feeding and mending weapons and armor. We all did our part.

Codi pauses for a moment to reflectt proudly.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

It took a while but we turned from a bunch of frighten peasants into furious warriors. Of course we couldn’t take the Prevaricates head on, they out numbered us and had better weapons but thanks to Miwea’s planning we managed to turn the tables. We conducted hit and run raids. We didn’t attack everything that moved but things that we advantageous to us. Supply depots, armories, food stations. Eventually we evened the odds. But our leader didn’t stop there. Those technically inclined were put to the task of bettering our weapons, our armor, our overall situation. Only because of this we were able to win in the end. But it did come at a cost.

Codi’s mood saddens.

CODI (SAD)

The first in my family to fall was my father, he died in the line of duty saving lives. Though in most civilization a medic, someone that heals people is regarded as a neutral. Someone that is not part of the war, but that is not how the Prevaricates saw it. Since he helped Felinions he was worse than if he was a warrior. They tortured him for three DecaYerks straight, his cries could be heard for CentaMillis. We all wanted to save him, I pleaded to Miwea to save him or at least put him out of his misery but their compound was too fortified. There was nothing that we could do. My mother wanted to send me away so I could not hear his pitiful cries but I refused. On the fourth CentaMilli his body was found, what was left of it anyway. He had been skinned alive and spices rubbed into his wounds making them even more painful.

Everyone looks in horror at Codi buut she does not notice this, she just stares into space.

CODI (STERN)

Now you know why I hate Prevaricatees so much.

Codi stares into space for a few mooments and then recovers.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

My mother was devastated, so much sso that she wanted to take her own life. She was not alone. But Miwea helped us understand if we did that my father’s death was for nothing. So we pressed on taking our anger out on the Prevaricates. As time went on my mother rose up through the ranks until she became Boswwa, second in command. She was Miwea’s right paw warrior. Though my mother was a fine warrior, ferocious and cunning, she was not the best of them all. The reason why she was chosen at this honored position was that Miwea took a liking to her.

Everyone seems confused and she seees this.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

He admired my mother’s courage and resolve not only as a warrior but as a mother, she would fight in battle all DecaYerk. She would come home bruised, beaten and exhausted yet she would spend her evenings with her kittens. Tending to their needs, reassuring them everything is going to be fine and even finding some time to have some fun with us. Then she would collapse and wake up again to do it all over again. Because of this respect he became our new father, he helped her in raising us. Even though he had a war to fight he always found time. Though they never went through the ancient ritual of the Mated it was always understood that their hearts belonged to each other.

IVAN (BLUNT)

So they slept together.

Everyone looks to Ivan in horror annd Golda punches him in the arm.

GOLDA (ANNOYED)

You’re such a jerk Ivan!

Ivan shrugs his shoulders and Codi glares at him.

CODI (STERN)

No! They loved each other too much for that! Mating to us is like your marriage! They never, as you humanoids say, made love!

Codi glares at him and Ivan hangs hhis head. After a few moments she calms down.

CODI (BLUNT)

As the war progressed we gained morre and more ground until the Prevaricates were all but destroyed. As end came near the Prevaricates, out of desperation, managed to bribe one of Miwea’s aides. He agreed to plant a bomb in Miwea’s dwelling, if he was killed perhaps our efforts would fall apart. As my mother and he discussed their plans after the war the bomb was discovered and was about to go off, there was no time to escape. So my mother, seeing her duty as Boswwa, threw herself on the bomb. Her battle armor and her body was enough to shield Miwea from death but not her, she died instantly. The next DecaYerk, when the Prevaricates learned of their failure, they surrendered all their forces. It was only the rehabilitating grief that he felt over the loss of my mother that prevented him from wiping them all out. After all the loses and devastation from the war the only time I saw Miwea cry was when my mother died. At her funeral he vowed to take care of us though by then we were old enough to tend to our own needs. He told us if we ever needed help we just needed to ask. Though my sister tended to ask more than I he did live up to his promise. Because of that I consider him as my own father. I owe my life and sanity to him.

Everyone one looks in horror to Coddi, Lena looks over to Nikolai.

LENA (COLD)

Happy you asked Exec?

GOLDA (COLD)

Glad you needed to open all these oold wounds?

Everyone but Codi glares at Nikolaii, he is taken aback.

CODI (STERN)

If anyone should be angry at the Exxec it should be I!

Everyone looks to Codi but she smilles.

CODI (REASSURING)

But I’m not, because of his inquiryy it has helped you all to understand Felinions and even your commander more clearly. I thank him.

Nikolai is relieved but the others seem a bit embarrassed, Codi looks to the others.

CODI (STERN)

Now that you have heard my sad talee are their any questions?

Everyone is still dismayed by Codi’’s story so they say nothing, she looks to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

You have the bridge Exec.

Codi gets up and so does Nikolai, sshe steps down and heads for the hatch.

CODI (BLUNT)

Continue to follow my father and maaintain signaler silence as my father requested. Notify me when we have arrived at our destination. If you need me I will be in my quarters.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes commander.

Codi leaves and Nikolai stands theiir and thinks, this goes unnoticed except by Lena.

LENA (CONFUSED)

What are you thinking?

Nikolai continues to think and thenn looks to Lena.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

That you need to take the bridge.

Nikolai then heads for the hatch. LLena wants to question him but decides not to. Once he leaves she gets up and takes the Exec Station, another standby crewmember takes her place. She looks to the door and ponders.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA IN ICE FIELDD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The corvette continues to follow thhe Felinion ship through the ice.

INT. MINSK – CODI’S QUARTERS>

Codi is sitting on her bed, in her hands is a globe made of glass. In it in 3-D is a scene of her when she was much younger, she is sitting on a log next to Miwea before he was crippled and younger as well. Next to them is a young female Felinion that looks a lot like Codi except she has spots instead of stripes and about the same age as he. The two adults have an arm around her and are posing for a picture. Their bodies sit nice and straight but they are making silly faces towards the camera, they are all having fun. She looks to it with great fondness. Suddenly, there are three electronic chimes that sound almost like a doorbell. This startles her and she look to the door with concern.

CODI (TO HATCH, CONCERNED)

Yes? What is it?

NIKOLAI (THROUGH HATCH, BLUNT)

It’s Nikolai, I would like to talk to you.

Codi smiles at the door.

CODI (TO HERSELF, SMUG)

That didn’t take you long.

NIKOLAI (THROUGH HATCH, CONFUSED)

Excuse me?

CODI (TO HATCH, BLUNT)

Come on in.

The door opens and Nikolai steps inn, Codi smiles to him but he looks more somber.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What is it Exec?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I came by just to see how you are. That story must have been hard to relive.

Codi nods.

CODI (HONEST)

More than you know.

NIKOLAI (APOLOGETIC)

Look, I’m sorry for bringing it up.. For…

Nikolai’s voice trails off when shee holds up her hand in a stop motion.

CODI (HONEST)

It is okay Nikolai. Like I said beffore, you all needed to hear it. In fact, every time I tell it the pain is a little less. Besides, I have a few things to console me.

Codi holds up the globe to Nikolai,, he takes it and looks into it. He smiles.

NIKOLAI (IMPRESSED)

Wow, you were so young then.>

Codi glares up at Nikolai.

CODI (STERN)

Are you trying to say I’m old Exec??

Nikolai looks to Codi with concern but she is smiling to him, he chuckles.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Even in war there were happy times.. Times I shared with those I loved.

Nikolai looks back to the globe andd smiles.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I see your sister is not in this caapture.

Codi reaches up and takes the globee from him.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Like I said, they were happier timees.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You never told me about the run in you had with your sister last time you were on Felina with me. I mean, you were all cut up and bleeding.

CODI (ANNOYED)

I didn’t tell you on purpose.

NIKOLAI (OFFERING)

As your Kalatir I think I have a riight.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Don’t think you can come in here annd try to manipulate me Nikolai!

Codi glares at the globe and he croouches down.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Look, I’m, just concerned that is aall.

Nikolai touches her arm and she loooks up to him, he smiles. Codi hesitates and smiles back.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Look if it is too painful or you juust want to tell me it isn’t any of my business, I understand. I just know it hurts you when ever she is mentioned. I didn’t know if this is something you want to get off your chest as well.

Codi looks to Nikolai and sees he iis genuinely concerned.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

I know you just want the best for mme, that you would give your life as my Kalatir if you had to. I feel the same for you. Because of that I don’t want to burden you.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

You have listened to me go on and oon about my messed up family, I think it is time that I returned the favor.

Codi looks to Nikolai as if he wantts to say something but instead she looks back to the globe.

CODI (BLUNT)

I will tell you, some DecaYerk. I ppromise but when I’m really.

Nikolai squeezes her arm gently.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

I’ll be waiting.

Nikolai squeezes Codi’s arm one morre time then lets go and stands back up. He turns and heads for the door, she looks up to him.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Is that all you are curious about?<

Nikolai stops at the hatch and lookks over his shoulder to Codi.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Now that you mention it, that littlle comment by your father about you being exiled. I didn’t buy his excuse for a MicroYerk. I was thinking about asking you about that…

Codi looks concerned to Nikolai andd he sees this, he sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

But somehow I think you won’t answeer me on that either so I’ll wait on that too.

CODI (BLUNT)

I fear that you won’t have to wait long for that answer.

Nikolai looks to her confused but CCodi looks back to her globe. He shakes his head, opens the hatch and leaves. The door closes as she loses herself inside the world of the globe.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA IN ICE FIELDD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Felinion ship leads them to a cconsiderably congested area of ice, there is barely enough room to navigate through.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is back at their stations and monitoring their instruments, Vladimir works his controls intensely.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

It is getting kind of tight in heree.

Codi looks to Vladimir.

CODI (CONCERNED)

How tight?

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

No one exhale.

Everyone looks to Vladimir with conncern as he continues to work.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA IN ICE FIELDD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Felinion ship continues in the led but as she continues the front of her begins to disappear into nothingness, as if it is slipping behind a curtain.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Ivan checks his instruments and theen checks them again, he is confused.

IVAN (SHOCKED)

She’s gone!

GOLDA (CONFUSED)

Who’s gone?

IVAN (SHOCKED)

The Klatera!

CODI (CONFUSED)

She blew up?

Ivan shakes his head.

IVAN (SHOCKED)

No, I recorded no explosion! No debbris! She just disappeared!

LENA (CONFUSED)

She must have reactivated her electtronic screen.

IVAN (SHOCKED)

No, she did not disappear all at onnce but from front to back, it took several MicroYerks. As if she was slipping into something.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

It could be this is our destinationn, a safe hiding place for our ships.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Or they are leading us into a trap!!

Codi glares at him.

CODI (STERN)

Need I remind you are talking aboutt my father Exec! The one who saved an entire civilization and at numerous time could have destroyed us but decided not to.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

And might I remind you commander thhat he is no longer part of that civilization. He is living out here on his own with no support. Capturing and selling a corvette could secure his financial future.

CODI (ANNOYED)

I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that!

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I have nothing against your father Codi! What he has done is the past is wonderful! But you are not the daughter of Miwea right now but the commander of a UCF corvette. The ship before you has just disappeared without a trace and we could be next! So all the faith in the world isn’t going to save us if this is a trap!

Codi glares at Nikolai and she glarres back, she is the first to cave.

CODI (APOLOGETIC)

You are absolutely right, Exec. I’mm sorry.

Nikolai just smiles and Codi looks to Golda.

CODI (BLUNT)

We will have to break singlar silennce. See if you can raise the Klatera, Comm Officer.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Golda begins to mumble into her heaadset but Vladimir looks to Codi.

VLADIMIR (EXCITED)

I’m afraid it is too late for that,, commander! We have passed the point of no return! We can’t turn around in here and we can’t stop in time!. We’re going in!

Codi looks to Nikolai.

CODI (STERN)

Sound for collision!

Nikolai uses his instructer and an alarm sounds, the lights on their consoles flash red really fast. Nikolai looks around the room.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Everyone brace for impact!

Everyone grabs onto something and pprepares for the worse.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) –– MED. SHOT

The ship continues forward and likee the Klatera the front of the ship begins to disappear and works its way back. Soon the entire ship is gone.

EXT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

This is an area where all light froom the outside world is cut off, it is in the shape of a huge rectangle. In each corner is a huge metallic glowing ball, it generate bright light that lights up the area. There are several large floating facilities much larger than the Minsk here. Felinions in space suits zip around on jetpacks. The Klatera is to one side and connected to the facility by a tube, the Minsk is barreling through one of the black walls. It quickly decelerates and comes to a stop next to the other ship.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is checking their instrumeents as Codi looks to Lena.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

The best I can explain it is like ttheir invisible technology. It appears that we are electronically hidden from view. This is some sort of base.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Which explains why they led us to tthis narrow area. Other ships would avoid it so there would be no collisions.

GOLDA (EXPLAINING)

I can pick up chatter within the baase, mostly in Felinion and coded but nothing from the nothing . I can’t even get a single out.

IVAN (EXPLAINING)

My scans are the same. I can penetrrate everything in here but can’t get past the invisible wall.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

So we are prisoners here and no onee knows where to find us!

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

Well we entered in unharmed, I woulld guess the same would be true if we tried to leave.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

That is exactly what they want you to think!

Codi glares at Nikolai.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Enough already Exec! You are startiing to sound like Ivan!

LENA (BLUNT)

I second that!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Look, I’m trying to say is-<

GOLDA (INTERRUPTING, BLUNT)

Forgive me for interrupting but Miwwea is trying to contact you commander.

Codi looks to her screen.

CODI (BLUNT)

Path it through.

Golda issues a command. Miwea appeaars on the bridge of the Klatera, he seems happy. Codi smiles to him.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Enjoy my little trick?

CODI (INTO HEADSET, PLEASED)

I sure did.

Codi looks over to Nikolai, he lookks concerned but she smiles to him.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, SMUG)

But my Exec looks a bit ill.>

Nikolai sulks and Codi looks back tto the screen, Miwea chuckles.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, LAUGH)

Well you should have warned him howw I do like keeping you on your claws.

Miwea settles down.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, BLUNT)

As you have realized we are complettely hidden from the outside world, this is how we have been able to conduct our attacks on The Legion.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, IMPRESSED)

It is quite a facility, father. I wwould love to have a tour.

Miwea pauses to consider this.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, BLUNT)

In due time but first there are somme questions you wanted answered so I suggest we meet. I sensed your Exec didn’t entirely trust me.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, REASSURING)

Not mistrust, he is just naturally…… Cautious.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Regardless, I suggest we have our ddiscussion over lunch. We are very cramp over here so I suggest we meet aboard your ship. Since you are our guesses we will bring the food. Agreed?

Codi nods.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

That would be fine. What do you sayy we convene I one Yerk?

MIWEA ((OVER HEADSET, PLEASED)

That would be great. Until then my daughter.

The screen fades. Codi smiles to thhe blank screen for several moments but then looks over to Nikolai.

CODI (STERN)

You can bounce all your mistrust annd conspiracies you wish Exec off of me. But once my father steps aboard this ship I except you to become a diplomat. This is no different than when you met with the Court of Chaw.

Codi looks around to everyone.

CODI (STERN)

That goes for everyone. Do I make mmyself clear?

Everyone nods to Codi and she smilees.

CODI (PLEASED)

Excellent. The Engineer Officer willl have the bridge while the Exec and I prepare for our meeting.

Codi gets up and so does Nikolai, sshe steps on down and heads for the door and he follows. Lena stands up and takes the Command Station. A fill in crewmember takes Lena’s old station.

EXT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

A tube connected to the facility iss moves into position and connected over an airlock hatch to the Minsk.

INT. MINSK – CONFERENCE ROOM

This is a large room with a round table, soft cushiony chairs are all around it. In front of each chair is a computer console. On one of the walls is a large screen, currently all the screens how the silhouette of Siberia. Nikolai and Codi are seated here, they are in their full dress uniforms. On the other side of the table are Miwea and Naaleraanaa Vez, she is a younger female Felinion with orange fur and blue spots. She is dressed just like Miwea, his cane is leaning up next to the table next to him. Before everyone are plates with Rabottes, they are huge pink rabbits with three legs. The Felinions are devouring theirs happily but Nikolai is only picking at his, this is noticed by Naaleraanaa.

NAALERAANAA (CONFUSED)

Excuse me Exec.

Nikolai looks to Naaleraanaa.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Please call me Nikolai.

NAALERAANAA (CONFUSED)

Very well, Nikolai. I noticed you have hardly toughed your Rabotte.

Nikolai pauses to think up an answer and Miwea looks to him.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

My Boswwa is correct, I heard you enjoyed it so well when you dined with the Court of Chaw.

Codi snickers but Nikolai looks to Miwea.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

How did you know about that being way out here?

Miwea smiles.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Just because I am dead to Felina does not mean I don’t still have my connections. After all, that is how I learned my enemies were no more.

CODI (CURIOUS)

Is that how you have fresh Rabotta?

Miwea nods.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Yes, a supply ship comes out here every so often.

NAALERAANAA (EXPLAINING)

But for security reasons we rendezvous with them rather than meeting here at the base.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Yet you let our ship dock in port, interesting.

Codi glares at Nikolai.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Exec!

Miwea looks over to Codi and smiles.

MIWEA (REASSURING)

That is quite alright, daughter. We are having this meeting to supply answers.

Codi gives Nikolai a cold look but it does not affect him, Miwea looks to him.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

When we meet with the supply ship it is not right after hostilities. After each attack The Legion scowers the ice fields for us, this is the only safe place for you. We had little choice in your case.

Codi looks to Miwea.

CODI (CURIOUS)

So the supply ships provided everything you need here?

Miwea shakes his head.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

No, they just supply us with food the rest we manufacture.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Manufacture? But how?

Miwea looks over to Nikolai.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

The ice around us is contaminated with metals and other elements. We have found a way to harvest these out of the water. Some become building materials. Some is the fuel used to power our facilities and ships. Everything is used and nothing is wasted. If it wasn’t for food we would be totally self sufficient.

NAALERAANAA (EXPLAINING)

For security reasons we harvest only the ice on the other edges of the field, away from the base.

CODI (IMPRESSED)

Your technology is quite impressive, father. The ability to hide your ship and mines from our scans is something even beyond Felinion.

Miwea looks to Codi.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

Yes, during the time we had to lay low while I was hiding from my enemies we spent some of it building this base but most of the time we improved on Felinion technology. As we learned in the Revolt, the one with the better technology has the upper paw.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

It is strange that the Felina government has refused to help us in our fight against The Legion yet you, a Felinion, willingly engage them.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

As I have explained I’m not part of the government any longer, I am just like my daughter. I have sought out my life outside the Felinion domain. But more so I am an old warrior, I need a new challenge. And new prey. The Legion seems like a formidable challenge.

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

Or would you have preferred we attacked your UCF ships?

Codi snickers and Nikolai takes it in stride.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

After witnessing the power of the mines I see how you could have easily destroyed the Patriot all at once. Yet you decided cripple her first and allow her to get a distress signal off before jamming them out. This put your ship at risk of attack by any nearby Legion ships. It seems like a mistake someone with your experience would never make.

Codi is not so amused any more, Miwea pauses to consider his answer.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

It could have been because we wanted to lure other Legion ships into the trap.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes, but we both know that would be a lie. The other ship you wanted to lure into a trap was the Minsk.

Codi glares at Nikolai.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You will not call my father a liar!

MIWEA (BLUNT)

No need to scold your officer, daughter. He is quite correct.

Codi looks to Miwea confused and he smiles you her.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

You have a brilliant officer here, a wise choice indeed. He is very observant. You should praise him.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Why did you want to lure us out father?

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

This chance run in with us was well calculated, I needed to speak with you on a private mater.

CODI (CONFUSED)

But how did you even know I was out here?

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

The Minsk is famous after being the first military ship to be invited to the Court of Chaw. Everyone knows of its legendary Felinion commander.

CODI (CONFUSED)

But that doesn’t explain how you knew the Minsk was even out here, Command Control does not announce where it is dispatching its ships.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

You will have to thank your Admiral for that. He told me exactly where to find you, right down to your patrol path.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Joseph told you all of this?

Miwea looks over to Nikolai.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Yes he did.

CODI (CONFUSED)

But why? That is a breach of security.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I have a feeling my father is somehow involved. When they discovered your advances in technology they probably were willing to trade or location for that.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Actually, our technology never came up. In fact, when I contacted him he was very resistant to revealing that you even had been deployed on a mission. But when he learned why I wanted to speak with my daughter he was more than happy to give me the information I needed.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Why did you want to speak with me?

Miwea looks over to Codi.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

I told him I wanted you to come and work with me. He agreed to help me in any way he could, he seemed very adamant of getting Nikolai here in command of the Minsk.

Codi is shocked but Nikolai is angry.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

That Sepcor!

Nikolai slams his fist on the table, they all look to him shocked. He sees this.

NIKOLAI (APOLOGETIC)

Forgive me, it is just we have had a run in within him in the past.

Miwea and Naaleraanaa look confused, Codi sees this.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

The Admiral was very against me or any Felinion to be placed in any position within the military. But he said he changed his mind though after we returned from Felina. I see that was just a deception.

MIWEA (UNDERSTANDING)

Well with you not being wanted by the humanoids it is only logical that you come and join me by my side. Together we will fight just like your mother and I did during the revolt.

Nikolai looks concerned but Codi is thinking things over.

CODI (CAUTIOUS)

I appreciate the offer, father. But my place is here on the Minsk.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

A kitten’s place is with her father.

CODI (CAUTIOUS)

But I’m not a kitten anymore. I’m an adult just like you. I need to set off and create a life of my own. That is why I’m out here.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

I thought it was the Court’s decision that forced you out here.

Nikolai takes interest in this statement. Codi scolds Miwea in their native tongue and he seems to apologize.

MIWEA (APOLOGETIC)

What I meant was that you seem to be neck deep in the same politics that is back on Felina, that is too the reason why I chose to live out here. The humanoids seem to be against you, with me you wouldn’t have to deal with that deposits.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Yes, a great number of humanoids do look down to us. They feel that we are lazy, troublesome and even thieves. Even the crew of this ship thought the same way about me when I first came on board. My own Exec plotted to get my kicked off.

Nikolai seems kind of hurt but Codi smiles to him.

CODI (PROUD)

But as we worked side by side he discovered that we weren’t that much different.

Nikolai smiles to Codi and she smiles back, then she looks back to Miwea.

CODI (PROUD)

In fact, I learned I was a bit discriminatory against them myself. We both helped open our eyes to the truth. That is why I’m out here, father. To tear down the walls of bigotry.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

You could do that with me. Imagine how famous you would be when we both terrorize The Legion so much they will refuse to even come near here.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

But that would be view as Felinions using their superior technology seeking their own self interest. While with me it is a Felinion working with humanoids for a common goal.

MIWEA (HURT)

Do you hate me so much that you give excuses to distance yourself from your own father?

CODI (REASSURING)

I have spoken only the truth here father. But I do own you more than my life, everything I have become is because of you. Your influence is etched into my heart. If you asked me as a Felinion to join you I must say no. But if you ask me as my father to join you I can only answer yes. How are you asking me?

Miwea looks into Codi’s eyes and stares deep, Naaleraanaa looks on with interest but Nikolai is on the edge of his seat. Finally he sighs.

MIWEA (FRUSTRATED)

If I forced you to come with me you would be nothing more than a slave, a prisoner. You must do what you feel is right no matter how much I disagree. You do not have to come with me.

Codi smiles and Nikolai is relieved, Naaleraanaa is indifferent. Miwea recovers.

MIWEA (REASSURING)

But no need for some good Rabotta to go to waste.

The Felinions dig in to their food while Nikolai looks to it with disgust.

INT. MINSK – CORRIDOR

Nikolai and Naaleraanaa are walking down the hallway side by side, other crewmembers walk by as they perform their duties. They walk in silence.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

For someone who was dying for a tour of the ship you don’t seem to be asking a lot of questions Naaleraanaa.

Naaleraanaa stops and Nikolai does the same, they look to one another.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

I must confess Nikolai, I was ordered to request this tour so Miwea could have some time alone with your commander.

NIKOLAI (REALIZING)

Of course! He wants to try and talk her into joining him!

Nikolai turns the way they came but Naaleraanaa grabs his arm, he stops and looks to her confused.

NAALERAANAA (REASSURING)

No, it is because they haven’t seen each other for so long… And that they probably won’t see each other for a long time after this.

Nikolai looks to Naaleraanaa to see she is telling the truth, he nods and she lets him go. They start walking again.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I guess you are right, otherwise you would try and stop him yourself.

NAALERAANAA (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Well because of their relationship Miwea wouldn’t give her some simple job, most likely she would take your place.

NAALERAANAA (HONEST)

I am well aware of that and it would be an honor to be replaced by her.

Nikolai stops and so does Naaleraanaa.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You would be happy to be demoted?

Naaleraanaa looks to Nikolai.

NAALERAANAA (PROUD)

She is the daughter of the most famous warriors parents ever. There isn’t a Felinion alive that doesn’t know their names. With her return it would be just like a reuniting of that during the Revolt. If I had the least bit part in this I would be honored.

Nikolai studies Naaleraanaa for a few moments and then smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Okay, that was the political response. Now let’s hear how you really feel.

Naaleraanaa pauses to think and then smiles.

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

Miwea was right, you are very perceptive.

Naaleraanaa starts to walk again and Nikolai joins her.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

Though loosing my position and status would not be welcomed I would fear your commander’s performance might endanger Miwea and his efforts.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You think she is some sort of traitor?

NAALERAANAA (DEFENSIVE)

Certainly not! It is just that she has been dealing with humanoids for so long, she thinks more like them than a Felinion. Not that I have anything against you, it is just that our operation is setup in the Felinion mind set. Having her take on a key position like mine would be like if you took my place instead. No offense intended.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I understand. My visit to Felina and the Court made me feel like an alien, everything was so contradictory to my thinking. But thanks to my commander’s help I didn’t fall on my face. So I think you are underestimating her.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

But that was a political situation, out here we don’t deal it politics but in military matters. That is the area where she would fail in.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I think it would be wise to leave this as we agree to disagree.

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

I can live with that.

They walk in silence for a few moments then Nikolai stops, Naaleraanaa does the same.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

There is one thing that puzzles me. Apparently my commander has had a run in with the Court of Chaw. Something happened that forced her to come out here against her free will. It something that concerns me deeply but she refused to fill me in. Can you shed some light on this?

Naaleraanaa pauses to think and then smiles.

NAALERAANAA (HONEST)

I could tell you everything you needed to know about your commander’s exile.

Nikolai smiles.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

But I won’t, this is something that has to come from her. She lived the experience and could give you greater detail. But more so you might not like what you hear and it could shatter your relationship forever. I’m not willing to be responsible for that.

Nikolai looks to Naaleraanaa and sees she is serious, he nods.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I understand.

Nikolai turns and starts walking, Naaleraanaa joins him. They walk in silence for a long time then she smiles.

NAALERAANAA (HONEST)

Actually, now that I come to think about it, there is one part of the ship I would love to see.

Naaleraanaa looks over to Nikolai as they walk and he looks to her.

NAALERAANAA (HONEST)

One of your Power Planets, I have always been curious how you adapted Felinion technology to yours for energy generation.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I’d love to show you, it is just this way.

Nikolai and Naaleraanaa continue to walk side by side smiling.

INT. MINSK - CODI’S QUARTERS

Codi is sitting on the chair to her desk and Miwea is sitting on the bed and is quite comfortable. She pulls off her boots and sighs with relief.

CODI (RELIEVED)

That feels so good.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

Are the humanoids really worth all this torture?

Codi glares at Miwea.

CODI (ANNOYED)

I thought you agreed to stop trying to convince me to leave.

Miwea smiles.

MIWEA (SMUG)

I just agreed not to force you.

Codi continues to glare at Miwea but then smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

You will never change and I grateful for that.

Miwea chuckles but then he looks to Codi seriously.

MIWEA (CONCERNED)

Do you hate me?

Codi looks to Miwea.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Why would I hate you?

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

I was the target for assassination. That bomb was meant for me, not your mother. Yet she gave her life for mine. If it wasn’t for me she would still me alive.

Codi pauses for a moment.

CODI (HONEST)

I won’t lie to you father. There was a time when I did hate you just because of that. But that feeling did not last long. When I saw how you worked so hard after the Revolt so she would not be forgotten. How you grieved and mourned her loss. When I realized how much you had loved her my hate turned into respect for you. I now hold no ill feelings towards you.

This makes Miwea happy. Then he notices the globe image on the bed next to him, he picks it up and looks to it. It brings back fond memories.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

She was so beautiful.

Codi sees what he is looking at and gets to her feet. She walks over and kneels on the bed next to him, they both look at the globe and reflect.

CODI (REMINISCING)

You two were so wonderful together.

Miwea looks up to Codi.

MIWEA (HONEST)

All three of us were a great team. Though we were caught in the middle of a war those were the happiest DecaYerks of my life.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

Mine too.

Miwea hesitates as if considering something.

MIWEA (HONEST)

I must confess that is the main reason why I wanted you to come with me. To capture some of the past once more.

Codi looks up to Miwea.

CODI (BLUNT)

If that were possible I’d join you in a heartbeat. But you know you can’t relive the past. For one thing mother is dead and I’m not the little kitten I use to be.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

I know but I meant for you to take your mother’s place.

Codi looks horrified at Miwea and he sees this.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

I didn’t mean in the capacity as a mate. I meant as a friend, a companion. Someone I can share my dreams and fears with. I mean family.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What about Naaleraanaa?

MIWEA (BLUNT)

Oh she is a fine warrior but she is young, she is ambitious where you are a mature adult. You can see the bigger picture. You think and feel as I do, we can relate.

Codi looks to Miwea and sees the pain in his eyes.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Does this mean that much to you? Does me leaving everything to join you that important?

MIWEA (HONEST)

More that you can imagine. It is a chance to spend some time together, father and daughter. We don’t know how much time either of us has. Either one of us could die in battle tomorrow.

Codi looks to him, she is struggling with something. Finally she looks away.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

I wish I could but I can’t!

Miwea grabs her chin and gently forces Codi to look to him.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

Why not?

Codi pauses to collect herself.

CODI (HONEST)

It is Nikolai. We’re Kalatirs, I could never leave him.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

Kalatirs? How can this be? He is not Felinion, he would never survive all the trials.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I have made some modifications so he can complete them.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

So you’re really not Kalatirs then.

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

The rituals do not make the Kalatir but what is in here!

Codi points to her chest.

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

We both lost those who meant everything to us! We both helped us one another through some rough times! Those things that I lack in are his strengths and vice versa. We are the perfect Kalatirs!

MIWEA (BLUNT)

Then he can come and join us.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

The admiral would never allow a humanoid to leave to be with Felinions, he would rather see Nikolai dead before that. Besides, Nikolai would never be happy here. Oh, he would put up a good front but he would be like a Prevaricate among Felinions. He needs to be with his own kind.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

And what about you? Don’t you need to be with your own kind? With your own father?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

It is different with me. Thanks to the Court I have learned to adapt, to be off on my own. I’m sorry but it has to be this way father.

Miwea looks to Codi and sees her determination and then smiles.

MIWEA (SMUG)

I see you are still as stubborn as I am so I won’t press this matter anymore and I will respect your decision.

CODI (PLEASED)

Thank you father.

Codi hugs Miwea and he hugs her with his free arm. She is genuinely happy but his happiness is a faked but she doesn’t see this.

EXT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

Operations continue as normal Miwea, Naaleraanaa, Codi and Nikolai walk down the tube connecting the base to the Minsk. The officers are still dressed in their dress uniforms but she has no boots. Also instead of headsets they have a large electronic boxes clipped to their belts.

INT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE – TUBE

Miwea, Naaleraanaa, Codi and Nikolai are slowly making their way away from the Minsk. The Exec and the crippled Felinion are walking side by side behind the other two Felinions.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

So you detonate the mines and cut and run every time. You never face your enemy and they never see their own assassins?

MIWEA (PROUD)

Yes, it is a process that never fails.

Miwea smiles to Nikolai but he seems a bit concerned, Miwea notices this.

MIWEA (CONCERNED)

You don’t approve of our tactics.

Nikolai hesitates.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

It is not my place to say.

MIWEA (SMUG)

It is when you are asked for your opinion.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

The commander would skin me alive.

Codi continues to walk as he looks over her shoulder to Nikolai.

CODI (SMUG)

My father is not some thin furred diplomat, he can take anything you have to say. Besides, I can think of several reasons I should already have skinned you alive so please speak your mind.

Naaleraanaa giggles, Codi looks forward again.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Well, since you asked. Yes, I don’t agree with your tactics. Someone who slips into your quarters while you sleep to slit your throat is not a warrior. Only a true warrior faces his enemies and proves himself.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

So you are saying that during the revolt when we were outnumbers and under armed we should have faced the Prevaricates head on and be wiped out just to we would be honorable.

NIKOLAI (DEFENSIVE)

Of course not! There you had to hit and run but here you have superior technology. You don’t need to hide, you can show yourself with pride.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

So what you are saying that there are some times you can act like a coward and some times you can be brave but only when the odds are in your favor.

NIKOLAI (BALKING)

Well… Er… What I mean is…

CODI (BLUNT)

Give it up Exec, no one ever wins an argument with my father. Not even me.

Naaleraanaa laughs and Codi giggles, Nikolai sulks and this pleases Miwea. He slaps him on the back with his free hand.

MIWEA (SMUG)

Regardless of your faults I like you Nikolai.

The comment cheers Nikolai up and Codi settles down, Naaleraanaa seems a bit upset. As they walk Nikolai looks to the Minsk.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

Any chance of allowing us to slip out of here so we can get a signal off to Command Control to give them a status report?

CODI (BLUNT)

Yes, we are due with checking in with them.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Not just yet, I have gotten reports that The Legion are still looking for us but they should be giving up soon.

Nikolai stops, the other notices this and do the same. He looks over to the Minsk.

NIKOLAI (IMPRESSED)

You don’t often get a chance to see her from this view.

Codi looks to the ship.

CODI (PROUD)

Yes.

They all look to the ship for a few moments and then they look back down the tube, all but Nikolai.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

We should be going if we want to see everything.

Miwea looks to Nikolai but he is still looking to the ship, then he looks the others.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

Why don’t you two go on ahead, Nikolai and I want to stay here and admire the Minsk.

Naaleraanaa looks to Miwea confused but he winks to her, Codi sees this but Nikolai is oblivious. He then looks her and gives her a “it will be okay” look. She nods slightly, turns and the girls walk away. Nikolai turns to Miwea.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Why do I feel I’m in big trouble?

Miwea smiles and puts his free arm around his shoulders.

MIWEA (REASSURING)

That is yet to be seen.

Miwea bares his fangs and Nikolai becomes uneasy.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

I know that you are Kalatir with my daughter. It pleases me that she has someone in this universe she can fall back on. Because of this I don’t resent you from keeping her from me. In fact, I respect you for it.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

If that is the case then why are we having this conversation?

MIWEA (STERN)

To warn you that if you let her down, that if you do not complete the Kalatir trials you will wish you had never met me.

Miwea extends his claws in the hand around Nikolai, his eyes are locked onto them.

MIWEA (STERN)

Do I make myself clear?

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Exceptionally clear.

Miwea bares his flags once more and then retreats from his threatening posture. With that nothing more is said, they turn and continue down the tube. Up ahead Codi and Naaleraannaa walk.

NAALERAANAA (HONEST)

I’m actually glad Miwea shooed us away, it gives us a chance to talk.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Oh?

NAALERAANAA (CONCERNED)

What I’m about to tell you is between just the two of us, if Miwea knew I told you he would kill me.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What is it?

Naaleraanaa pauses to collect herself.

NAALERAANAA (CONCERNED)

Not all of your father’s enemies have been eliminated. If the past few CentaYerks a few attempts have been made on his life.

CODI (CONFUSED)

You have a traitor among you?

NAALERAANAA (CONCERNED)

I fear it is more than one. Unfortunately, the attacks have not been direct and they have appeared to be accidents. A faulty detonator in a mine being processed, a falling crate, an overloaded processor. All of these just so happened while you father was in harms way. But after I investigated each it was discovered that these all were sabotage. Despite the danger your father refuses to believe that he has been betrayed.

CODI (BLUNT)

I could talk to him, try and convince him.

NAALERAANAA (EXCITED)

No! You know how stubborn he can get! You would only get me into trouble!

CODI (CONFUSED)

Then why are you telling me this?

NAALERAANAA (EXPLAINING)

Because I have no one else I can trust here, I need to confide in you. While you are here please try and keep an eye on him, stay close to him. You may be the only thing keeping him alive. I can’t do this alone.

Codi looks to Naaleraanaa and sees the concern in her eyes and nods.

CODI (REASSURING)

You can depend on me, Naaleraanaa.

NAALERAANAA (PLEASED)

Thank You.

They continue to walk down the tube.

INT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE – LAB

This is a high tech lab with Felinions busy working on experiments using both chemical and electronic means. Nikolai, Codi and Miwea are here. The three are observing the others.

CODI (IMPRESSED)

The work you have done here is quite impressive, father. Even by Felinion standards.

Miwea smiles.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

Any chance of revealing some of your secrets to us? I’m especially interested in how you can make things disappear in the blink of an eye.

Miwea loses his smile and looks to Nikolai.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

Sorry but that is not possible.

Codi looks to Miwea but says nothing.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But I thought we were on the same side?

MIWEA (BLUNT)

We are but you don’t give a stranger a loaded laz and then turn your back on them.

CODI (CONCERNED)

That is a bit harsh father, even for you.

Miwea looks over to Codi.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

I have nothing against the humanoids, I actually find them quite fascinating. But Felina didn’t give them the keys of the Court, just what they needed to survive. I am doing the same. I’d hate to see our technology perverted against us.

Codi is still confused but Nikolai is hurt, Miwea doesn’t seem to care. The hatch opens and Naaleraanaa walks in, as the hatch closes she walks up to the group.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

Intel has given the all clear, no hostiles detected in the ice field.

Miwea smiles.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

Looks like you can now go and update your superiors of what you have found here.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You mean you will let us go?

Naaleraanaa looks to Nikolai.

NAALERAANAA (CONFUSED)

You make it sound like we were keeping you captive here.

Nikolai pauses to consider his answer.

NIKOLAI (BALKING)

No… It is just that…The secrets that have been relieved here… I wasn’t sure what you wanted made public…

MIWEA (BLUNT)

You can say anything you want about my operation here, your Command Control knows all about it. I have nothing to hide.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Nikolai then turns Codi.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

We had better get off our report as soon as we can.

CODI (BLUNT)

Yes, they do tend to get testy when we are late.

Miwea looks to Codi.

MIWEA (SADDENED)

Must you run off as fast as you came daughter? There is so much I want to show you.

CODI (BLUNT)

I’m afraid so, duty calls.

NAALERAANAA (CONFUSED)

Why can’t your Exec give the report? After all, he has witnessed everything you have seen.

MIWEA (HOPEFUL)

That way we can spend more time together.

CODI (BLUNT)

I really should…

Codi’s voice trails off when Naaleraanaa grabs her arm and looks deep into her eyes.

NAALERAANAA (PLEADING)

Please stay, you can help me keep an EYE on things.

Nikolai and Miwea are confused but Codi seems to understand, she nods and then looks to her Exec.

CODI (REASSURING)

Yes, this is something you can handle on your own Exec. Besides, it has been some time since you got to command the Minsk without tripping over me.

Nikolai looks to Codi.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Are you sure this is what you want?

Codi smiles.

CODI (REASSURING)

Yes.

Nikolai hesitates and then nods.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

As you wish commander.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

Be sure to compress the message so the transmission time is reduced, best to expose yourself as little as possible.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

And travel a good distance away from us so the Legion can’t use it to locate our base.

Nikolai looks to Miwea and bows his head slightly.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Miwea…

Nikolai looks to Naaleraanaa and bows his head slightly.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Naaleraanaa…

Nikolai looks to them both.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I shall return.

Nikolai turns and heads for the exit, the others watch him go. Naaleraanaa has an odd smile on her face but no one notices it.

EXT. MINSK NEAR KLATERA HIDDEN BASE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship reappears from behind the invisible curtain and slowly heads back into the ice field.

INT. MINSK – POWER PLANET #2>

This is a huge room with ten tall bbut narrow clear plastic cylinders. A large pipe leads in from the floor into the bottom and a similar pipe leads in from the ceiling from the top of each. Every pipe has a shutoff valve on it, instead of a handle it has a unique stem like a bolt. Two different gasses feed in from the top and bottom pipes, the interact violently where the meet in the cylinder. Each has a small control panel on it with a display but there are all tied into a central console in the middle of the room. Hanging on the wall near the door is a unique wrench that matches the stems on the valves. Boris is monitoring the main controls and seems happy. The hatch opens and Lena steps in, he looks over to her and smiles.

BORIS (PLEASED)

Lena, this is a pleasant surprise.

The hatch closes and she steps up tto him, he frowns.

BORIS (CONCERNED)

This can only mean I’m in trouble.<

LENA (REASSURING)

Relax Boris, I just came down to chheck up on things.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

But you could do that from your connsole on the bridge? This makes no sense.

Lena glares at Boris.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Keep questioning me Lead Maintenance Tech and you will be in trouble.

Boris pauses to think then smiles.

BORIS (UNDERSTANDING)

Ah, this is just an excuse to visit your baby.

Lena smiles.

LENA (SMUG)

You know me too well, Boris. I guess that is why I promoted you.

Lena and Boris chuckle, then she looks around.

LENA (CONFUSED)

Where is everyone?

BORIS (BLUNT)

Well while we were docked I had the techs try and knock out that list of low priority items, to keep them busy. Since we are just out for a joy ride I didn’t see a reason to put a halt on it.

LENA (REASSURING)

A wise decision.

Lena and Boris looks to the cylinders, she smiles proudly.

LENA (PROUD)

The Power Planet, where all of the Minsk’s power is generated from. I’m amazed every time I see it.

They look at it in silence. Suddenly, an alarm starts to sound. They look around confused.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Warning! Conversion chamber number three has an imbalanced mixture! It will reach destructive level in 99 MicroYerks! Please correct!

Lena looks to a chamber labeled “#3” which its interaction is larger than the others and is getting bigger. Boris turns back to the main console, he begins to work it. Lena rushes over to him and looks over his shoulder.

LENA (URGENT)

What is the problem?

BORIS (EXPLAINING)

Number three is getting too Hydrogenoxide!

LENA (URGENT)

Then correct!

BORIS (EXPLAINING)

I’m trying but the system is not responding to that valve!

LENA (URGENT)

Then try the secondary!

BORIS (BLUNT)

I have and also the other backup systems but none of them will not respond.

LENA (URGENT)

We have to correct it or it will explode! The chain reaction will destroy the entire Power Planet!

BORIS (FRUSTRATED)

I know! I know!

Lena pauses to think.

LENA (URGENT)

Let’s look at this logically. Why have they failed? Where is the problem?

BORIS (BLUNT)

The same fault that is preventing me from adjusting the valve is preventing me from performing diagnostics.

LENA (URGENT)

Then initiate auto shutdown sequence!

BORIS (BLUNT)

I can’t do that!

LENA (ANNOYED)

Oh let me in there!

Lena pushes Boris out of the way and starts working the controls, but as she continues she looks puzzled.

LENA (CONFUSED)

Where is the auto shutdown sequencer?

BORIS (STERN)

That is because we were in the process of installing it when we were stuck orbiting Mars. It is a new technology. We would have finished if we the bridge crew hadn’t gotten antsy and wanted to come out here!

LENA (SHOCKED)

You’re right! We’ll have to shut if off manually!

Lena looks to Boris.

LENA (SHOCKED)

Get the wrench!

Boris turns and races over to the wrench hanging on the wall.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Warning! Conversion chamber number three has an imbalanced mixture! It will reach destructive level in 57 MicroYerks! Please correct!

Boris grabs the wrench and races over to the defective cylinder, Lena joins him. He hands the tool to her, she uses it to shut off the bottom valve. But as she pulls on it snaps in two, part of it falls to the floor. She looks to the remains in her hands, he does too.

BORIS (SHOCKED)

That is not a natural break! That is sabotaged!

They both look to it in horror. Lena looks her fingers on her free hand and rubs them together, she considers something. Then she looks to Boris.

LENA (BLUNT)

Run over to the other Power Planet and bring back their wrench.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

But there isn’t enough time.

LENA (STERN)

We don’t have any choice! Now go!

BORIS (BLUNT)

Look, we could seal the room. We will lose the Power Planet but we might be able to save the ship.

LENA (ANNOYED)

You have your orders Lead Maintenance Tech!

BORIS (STERN)

No!

Lena glares at Boris but he does not back down, she does.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

Look, I know what I’m doing. Please do as I say.

Boris looks to Lena, he sighs. He turns races over to the hatch.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Warning! Conversion chamber number three has an imbalanced mixture! It will reach destructive level in 31 MicroYerks! Please correct!

Boris opens the hatch and races out. As soon as the hatch closes again Lena discards the wrench and races to it.

LENA (TO HATCH, URGENT)

Room command! Initiate auto seal process A-1-1-A! Authorization 971432-Lena!

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Initiator valid. Authorization confirmed. Initiating seal.

A large blast door comes down over the hatch. Around the walls, floor and ceiling a bright glowing light appears.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Auto seal A-1-1-A completed. Room has been secured.

Lena races over to the faulty valve and grabs it with her fingers, she tries to turn it with her bare hands but fails. Then she looks to her hand.

LENA (URGENT)

Lena command! Increase hand strength to maximum, bypass preset human limits!

Lena’s hands beep twice and then she tries to turn the valve again, she has a better grip now but still can’t do it. She gives up and looks to her hand again.

LENA (ANNOYED)

I can’t get a grip using this flesh!

Lena places her fingers in her mouth and tears them off with her teeth, she spits them out onto the floor.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Warning! Conversion chamber number three has an imbalanced mixture! It will reach destructive level in 9 MicroYerks! Please correct!

We see Lena’s hand is a robotic one. She grabs the valve one more time and tries to turn it.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Warning! Conversion chamber number three has an imbalanced mixture! It will reach destructive level in 5 MicroYerks! Please correct!

Lena grunts and groans with all her might but manages to turn the valve just enough. The reaction in the cylinder changes to that like the others.

COMPUTER (ELECTRONIC VOICE)

Conversion chamber number three has a balanced mixture! Destructive levels are now unattainable! All processes are normal.

Lena sighs with relief. Then she looks to her robotic hand, her relief turns to disgust.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship continues slowly through the chunks of ice.

INT. MINSK - MEDIC CENTER EMERGENCYY ROOM

This is a large room with rows of eempty examination tables and other medical equipment. There are several hatches on each wall and the desk with a computer console by one of the hatches. Lena is sitting on one of the tables and the Lead Medic Tech stands next to her, this is Ken Keith. He is about Nikolai’s age, red hair and has a goatee. He has gold symbols of a staff with a snake wrapped around it on his shoulders. He is wearing a white uniform with a headset. These are the only two people in the room. He is using a hand laser to seal up her fingers, when he finishes they look like normal flesh again. He clips the laser onto his belt and looks closely at her hands, she looks on. He smiles.

KEN (PROUD)

There you go, no one will know the truth now.

Once satisfied Lena looks to Ken annd smiles.

LENA (PLEASED)

Thanks Ken. I really appreciate youu keeping my secret just that.

KEN (REASSURING)

That is what friends do.

Ken pauses and is about to say someething when the hatch next to the desk slides open, Nikolai rushes in. They look to him as he rushes up to them. His eyes are locked on her.

NIKOLAI (FRANTIC)

I just heard what happened! Are youu alright?

KEN (REASSURING)

She is find Exec.

Nikolai glares at Ken.

NIKOLAI (FRANTIC)

If that is the case then why is shee down here in the Medic Center?

LENA (REASSURING)

I just cut my finger but the medic patched me up just fine. See.

Lena holds up her hand and wiggles her fingers.

Nikolai calms down.

NIKOLAI (RELIEVED)

Thank goodness you are alright.

Lena looks to Nikolai and sees how concerned he is, this makes her smile.

LENA (PLEASED)

Your concern for me is appreciated, Exec.

Nikolai smiles to Lena.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

You mean the universe to me, Lena. If anything were to happen to you I don’t think I could live without you.

Lena raises an eyebrow.

LENA (SLY)

Oh?

NIKOLAI (PROUD)

I mean, we are good friends. I would hate to lose that friendship.

Lena’s hopes are crushed but Nikolai fails to see this.

LENA (DISAPPOINTED)

Oh… Friends… Of course…

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But the thing I don’t understand is how you turned down that valve? Boris told me the system had been sabotaged and the wrench was unusable. How did you turn the valve without it?

Lena’s mind is racing.

LENA (BALKING)

Well… um… You see…

Ken sees Lena is floundering.

KEN (BLUNT)

She used her bare hands.

Lena and Nikolai glares at Ken.

LENA AND NIKOLAI (IN UNISON, SHOCKED)

What!

Lena’s shocks turns to desperation.

LENA (FRANTIC)

He is just joking.

KEN (BLUNT)

No I’m not.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Yes you are!

Ken looks to Lena.

KEN (BLUNT)

He should know the truth.

Lena glares at Ken but he doesn’t back down, she caves.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

I guess you are right.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Right? About what?

Ken looks to Nikolai.

KEN (EXPLAINING)

It is a medical fact that people in extreme circumstances have been known to possess superhuman abilities. Super strength, super grip, and so on. There is even one case where a tech lifted a shuttle off his commander after it fell on him. The same is the case that happened to the Engineer Officer here.

Lena smiles to Ken as Nikolai rubs his chin.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

Yes, I have heard of things like that before. Lena must have been so determined to save the ship that she her adrenalin kicked in. She was able to do anything.

KEN (SMUG)

Yes, because the only other way she could have done it is if she had a mechanical hand.

Lena’s smile fades.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Mechanical hand?

He looks confused and Lena is very concerned but then Nikolai busts out laughing.

NIKOLAI (LAUGHING)

Lena with mechanical hands? Yeah right!

Lena is relieved and Nikolai settles down.

NIKOLAI (SERIOUS)

Okay, we have all had our fun but it is time to get back to work.

Nikolai looks to Lena.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I need to know what went wrong in the Power Planet.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

We were sabotaged, there is no doubt about that.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I know but I need to know how specifically and what would have been the exact extent if they had succeeded.

KEN (CONFUSED)

Why is that so important?

Nikolai looks to Ken.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Because if the ship would have been destroyed the spy onboard is more dangerous than I fear, they are willing to give their life to their cause.

LENA (CONCERNED)

We have another spy onboard?

Nikolai looks to Lena and sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I’m afraid so… That is why we need to get to work.

Lena jumps to her feet.

LENA (BLUNT)

I’ll get right on it!

Lena heads for the exit and Nikolai looks to Ken.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I need you to keep your eyes open, Ken. Let me know if anyone comes in here wanting to be treated for anything out of the ordinary. Any wounds or injuries that could have been caused try trying to pull this off. Even if someone is asking a lot of questions about Lena or how she saved the ship.

Lena reaches the hatch and opens it.

KEN (BLUNT)

You can count on me Exec!

Nikolai nods and rushes towards the exit, Lena leaves and he manages to slip out of the door before it closes. Ken is left there alone, he ponders something that concerns him.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship continues on it way.

INT. MINSK – POWER PLANET #2>

The hatch over the door and lighting on the floors, walls and ceiling is gone. Lena and Boris are crawling around the floor. They are looking under and behind things for clues.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

I don’t understand why we have to search the room alone. We have an entire crew that can help us.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Because we don’t know who we can trust and who we can’t. If they found something that incriminated them they could easily destroy it without our knowing.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

Any idea what we are looking for?

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Anything out of the ordinary. Anything a spy used to sabotage the ship.

As they continue their search Boris reaches under the #3 cylinder and pulls out one of Lena’s fake discarded fingers, he looks to it oddly.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

What do you make this out to be?

Lena looks over to Boris, when she sees what he is holding she nearly falls over.

LEAN (TO HERSELF, WHISPERS)

I thought I had discarded all of those?

Lena regains her composure and crawls over to him, Boris continues to look to what is in his hand.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

It is obviously some kind of polymer but it looks like human flesh.

Lena quickly grabs it from his hand, she smiles to him.

LEAN (REASSURING)

It looks like a wiring casing to me.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

But they are usually color coded, there is no code for flesh color.

LENA (REASSURING)

It must have been defective, that is why it hasn’t been missed.

BORIS (CONFUSED)

I have seen defective ones, they are usually multicolored. Not solid like this one.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Forget the Deposit casing already! We have a job to do here!

Boris shrugs his shoulders and continues his search. When he is not looking Lena looks to the plastic in her hand and sighs, she looks like she has seen a ghost.

INT. MINSK - MEDIC CENTER LAB

This is a small room packed with alll sorts of electronic equipment. Ken is working the some of the equipment as Lena looks on. He then turns to her and smiles.

KEN (REASSURING)

It won’t be long now.

Lena doesn’t seem too happy, in fact shhe is kind of off on her own little world. Ken notices this.

KEN (CONCERNED)

Are you alright Lena?

Lena looks to Ken.

LENA (CONCERNED)

Actually, I’m not.

KEN (CONCERNED)

Are you sick? Are you injured? Whatt is wrong?

LENA (BLUNT)

This!

Lena pulls out the fake flesh finger shhe took from Boris.

LENA (BLUNT)

Boris found this in the Power Planeet.

KEN (CONFUSED)

Your fake flesh? What did you tell him?

LENA (ANNOYED)

I lied to him of course!

KEN (CONFUSED)

Did he believe you?

Lena shrugs her shoulders.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

I don’t know… He seemed kind of connfused… I think I’m okay as long he doesn’t have it.

Ken sighs.

KEN (BLUNT)

How many more times do you think yoou can dodge the laz Lena?

LENA (ANNOYED)

As many as it takes!

KEN (BLUNT)

It is only a matter of time before they all realize who you are.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Don’t you mean WHAT I am!

KEN (REASSURING)

Regardless, they are a pretty underrstanding bunch. They will support you. I am sure of it.

LENA (ANNOYED)

I’m not afraid of them but of Commaand Control! If they ever learned of the monster I am! Of the freak that is inside of me! They would have my hide!

KEN (REASSURING)

What happened to you was not a crimme, it was a miracle. You have the strength of ten, you can take more punishment than anyone else. Your new talents are a blessing, not a curse.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Whose side are you on? You want to turn me in to Command Control! Maybe get a reward! A medal!

KEN (STERN)

Look here! I have kept your secret just like the other Lead Medic Tech before me! You want to tell me to mind my own business then that is fine by me! But don’t call me a traitor!

Lena looks to Ken and sees he is hurt, she sighs.

LENA (APOLOGETIC)

I’m sorry. I know you’re on my sidee. You have kept my secret all this time. I really appreciate it. It is just that with these devices have really messed with my mind as well. I forget sometimes who my friends are.

KEN (REASSURING)

I don’t think it is the devices thaat are messing you up but your conscious.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Now look here…

Lena’s voice trails off when the hatch opens and Nikolai steps in, she quickly put the fake finger away. He walks up to the group.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

You have something?

LENA (SMUG)

More than something.

Nikolai looks confused to them but the machine beeps three times, Ken smiles.

KEN (PLEASED)

There it is.

Ken turns to the machine and opens it up, inside is a very tiny electronic device. Lena takes it from the machine and holds it out to Nikolai, he takes it and looks it over with interest.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

This was found next to the main conntrol terminal in the Power Planet.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What is it?

LENA (EXPLAINING)

It is an override unit. Though it iis not directly connected it had the ability to tap into the cabling and not only counterman all instructions but force the system to alter the valve to dangerous levels.

Nikolai looks back to the others.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

It had the ability to decipher our encryption? I can’t buy that.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

We witnessed an entire ship disappeear. Nothing is impossible.

Nikolai nods.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

You have a point there.

Nikolai hands the device back to Leena.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Okay, we know how they sabotaged uss so now we have to figure out whom.

LENA (SMUG)

Already done.

Nikolai is confused.

KEN (EXPLAINING)

I used my scanners to take a closerr look and discovered Felinion writing on it. I also found a few hairs on it as well, they have been identified as Felinion.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

But the only Felinion on this ship is Codi.

KEN (EXPLAINING)

You are forgetting we had a few othhers visit us recently.

Nikolai’s eyes widen.

LENA (SMUG)

And if I’m not mistaken, you gave oone of them a tour of the very Power Planet that went nuts.

NIKOLAI (SHOCK)

Naaleraanaa!

Ken nods.

KEN (EXPLAINING)

Yes. I took some of the hairs from her chair from the meal you had with her and they match.

LENA (BLUNT)

Naaleraanaa is our spy without a dooubt!

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But why?

KEN (BLUNT)

We can’t tell you that.

LENA (STERN)

What we can is we better make it baack to the commander at best possible load, she is in danger!

Nikolai gasps.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, FRANTIC)

Bridge this is the Exec! We have a problem!

Ken and Lena look on as Nikolai continues to speak.

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 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 soft knock on the hatch, he looks to it with concern. He then uses the remote on a big screen, it shows the corridor outside his room. Standing at it is Corrine Joyce, she is a tall gorgeous brunette. She is wearing a very short skirt that is slitted on each side up to her waist, a tube top and stiletto heeled knee high boots. All the items are made of black leather and are two sizes too small. On her chest is the same skull and cross bones as his. Pinned to her top are Exec Officer Symbols. She looks very embarrassed and uncomfortable in her clothes. He smiles to the image on his screen. He pushes one of the buttons on the remote and the hatch slides open, Corrine steps in. 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.

Corrine bows her head.

BILL (SMUG)

Yes, my dear. You may speak.>

Corrine looks up and lowers her armms.

CORRINE (BLUNT)

I have come to make a request of yoou commander.

BILL (SMUG)

A request? What kind of request?

CORRINE (BLUNT)

It is of my uniform, commander.

Bill eyes over Corrine, he likes whhat he sees.

BILL (SMUG)

I find it very attractive on you.

CORRINE (BLUNT)

That is the problem sir. The males on this ship are distracted by my appearance. They find it hard to focus with me around. It is a disruption in performing my duties.

BILL (SMUG)

We all have to make sacrifices, Exec.

CORRINE (AWKWARD)

They have even, er, made advances towards me Commander… Sexually.

Bill jumps to his feet.

BILL (ANGRY)

This is an outrage! This is something that will not be tolerated!

Corrine is surprised by his reaction, it make her happy.

BILL (ANGRY)

You are my woman Exec! Any man that touches you I will personally eject out into space!

Corrine’s happiness fades.

CORRINE (CONFUSED)

Wouldn’t it just be easier for me to wear my old uniform?

Bill calms down and smiles, he begins to walk around Corrine.

BILL (SMUG)

Have you forgotten why I ordered you to wear it Exec?

CORRINE (BLUNT)

It was punish for not having sex with you right before we took on the Minsk.

BILL (STERN)

Because you used your femininity to talk me out of sex. Because of that the Minsk was able to save the freighter we were going to high jack. You ruined my perfect streak of twenty successful commerce raids.

CORRINE (EXPLAINING)

That was just a superstition. It was ritual. The odds were against you. It was inevitable. It wasn’t my fault. It wasn’t your fault. It wasn’t anyone’s fault.

BILL (ANNOYED)

The exalted leader of the Democratic Legion, Ted Delrayy, thinks otherwise. He has recalled me and wants to speak to me personally. Not many people step out of his chambers alive. You’re lucky I don’t have you walk around naked!

CORRINE (DEFENSIVE)

It has been quite sometime since ouur failure. It is unlikely that is why he is recalling you.

BILL (ANNOYED)

That is what is so dangerous about him. You never know what he is going to do next.

CORRINE (DEFENSIVE)

But logic states-

Bill stops before Corrine and gets in her face.

BILL (INTERRUPTING, ANGRY)

I’m finished talking with you Exec!

Corrine considers perusing her argument, but when she sees how angry Bill is she decides not to.

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 sits down on the bed and places his remote control next to him, he begins to unfasten his shirt.

BILL (SMUG)

One for old time’s sake, Exec.

Corrine is about to protest but he glares at her, there is no room for compromise. She sighs and goes over to the bed, she begins to undress too.

INT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE – LAB

Codi and Naaleraanaa are here, they are talking to one of the Felinion lab techs in their native language. The hatch opens and Miwea hobbles in, the girls are happy to see him. The tech goes back to work, he joins them.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

I have good news. The Minsk has returned safe and sound.

NAALERAANAA (CONFUSED)

They came back?

Codi looks to Naaleraanaa.

CODI (SHOCKED)

You didn’t expect them to come back?

Naaleraanaa notices everyone is looking to her so she forces a smile.

NAALERAANAA (REASSURING)

I meant so soon.

The others are relieved.

CODI (PLEASED)

I’d better check how things went.

Codi reaches for the electronic device on her belt but Naaleraanaa grabs her arm, both she and Miwea look to her confused. This is seen, she lets go.

NAALERAANAA (EXPLAINING)

I’m sure if they had anything to report they would have contacted you.

Codi opens her mouth to reply but the device on her belt begins to beep, this makes her smile.

CODI (SMUG)

Speak of Kazan…

Codi pulls the device off her belt and activates it, she holds it up to her face and the screen shows Nikolai on the bridge of the Minsk. This pleases her but frightens Naaleraanaa.

CODI (TO DEVICE, PLEASED)

Exec, we were just commenting you on how you made it back in record time. Any problems?

Naaleraanaa looks on with great concern, Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (OVER DEVICE, PLEASED)

Not a one, everything went as planned. I sent a message to Command Control on what we have been up to.

CODI (TO DEVICE, CONFUSED)

But you came back so soon, you couldn’t have gotten a reply back.

NIKOLAI (OVER DEVICE, EXPLAINING)

Well we received a message from our old friend Catherine while we were out there.

CODI (TO DEVICE, CONFUSED)

Catherine? Are you sure?

NIKOLAI (OVER DEVICE, EXPLAINING)

Quite sure. I really think you should come back to the ship and view it. It is quite interesting.

Codi pauses to think.

CODI (TO DEVICE, BLUNT)

I’m on my way.

NIKOLAI (OVER DEVICE, BLUNT)

I will be expecting you within five MicroYerks.

Codi turns off the device and puts it on her belt again, she looks to the others.

CODI (APOLOGETIC)

I’m sorry but I’m going to have to cut the tour short.

MIWEA (UNDERSTANDING)

So I heard, we can pick up when you return.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

But it would be absolutely rude if you left now. Please stay, you can listen to your friend another time.

Codi studies Naaleraanaa, she doesn’t like what she sees.

MIWEA (REASSURING)

I think it would be good if she did go. We have several duties we need to attend to as I’m sure my daughter does.

NAALERAANAA (BLUNT)

Yeah but-

MIWEA (STERN)

Don’t be rude Naaleraanaa!

Naaleraanaa looks to Miwea and he glares back, she hangs her head.

NAALERAANAA (FRUSTRATED)

As you wish, Miwea.

Codi goes up to Miwea and hugs him, he hugs her back with her free hand.

CODI (PLEASED)

It has been fun father, until we meet again.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

The pleasure is all mine, daughter.

They break apart and look to each other for a few more seconds smiling. Then Codi turns and head for the exit, as she goes Naaleraanaa glares at her.

INT. MINSK – DOCKING PORT #4>

This is like the others. The tube leading to the base is connected to it, a group of Marines are here armed with pistols and rifles. There are larger floor mounted guns here as well, all are pointed towards at the airlock. Codi and Nikolai are standing to the side. The commander seems to be shocked.

CODI (SHOCKED)

Are you sure about this?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No questions about it!

Codi thinks for a moment.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

Now that you mention it, Naaleraanaa was insistent that I stayed. The only reason she let me go was she probably thought that her trick failed completely and it remains undetected.

Codi smiles to Nikolai.

CODI (PLEASED)

Well played Exec. Had you panic and just blurted out what you knew when you contacted me I might not be here right now.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I couldn’t take the chance. Even if you weren’t within earshot of those sensitive Felinion ears they may have been able to break our encryptions.

CODI (CONFUSED)

The question is what do we do know?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Isn’t it obvious? We aren’t being held here I say we hightail it out of here, get to open space and Ultra-Light back to Mars. In the process we warn them to steer clear of here.

CODI (BLUNT)

Unfortunately, the way out could be trapped by their invisible mines. If we tipped our paw we wouldn’t get very far. Besides, I’m not going anywhere while my father faces the same danger.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

You are assuming that he isn’t part of this.

Codi glares at Nikolai.

CODI (ANNOYED)

How dare you accuse him of that!

NIKOLAI (DEFENSIVE)

We have to face facts. Naaleraanaa is his Exec, it would be hard for him not to realize what she has been up to.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You seem to have forgotten that your own girlfriend turned out to be a spy and you had no clue either!

Nikolai glares at Codi.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

That was cold!

CODI (ANNOYED)

And what you accused my father wasn’t?

Nikolai and Codi glare at each other, but both of them back off.

NIKOLAI (APOLOGETIC)

You’re right. I’m sorry for what I said.

CODI (APOLOGETIC)

Me too.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Well I guess before we start pointing fingers we need to isolate Naaleraanaa. We could rush over their with the marines and-

CODI (INTERRUPTING, BLUNT)

No, she will see us coming. She could easily rally the Felinions into believing we are talking their technology by force. It would get messy.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

She is surely suspicious so I doubt we can lure her on board.

CODI (BLUNT)

Agreed, that is why I must go to her.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You? Go there?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Yes, I’ll get my father alone and explain the situation. He knows her and his people better than us. He will know what to do.

Nikolai thinks for a moment.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

Yeah, that is probably the best way but you won’t be alone. I’ll be right at your side.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, it is too dangerous!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

That is why I have to go!

CODI (STERN)

Out of the question!

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

How is it going to look when your Exec, who has been dying on getting his hands on their technology, is left behind?

Codi pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

If we tip our hand too soon she might even try and destroy this base taking the Minsk along with it. None of us are safe.

Codi sighs.

CODI (BLUNT)

Very well. This is how we will do it.

Codi begins to explain their plan as Nikolai listens intently.

INT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE – TUBE

This is right outside the main facility. Miwea and Naaleraanaa are waiting here. Codi and Nikolai are walking towards them. The crippled Felinion is pleased to see them but the younger one is not so sure.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

Daughter, you have returned so soon. I am so pleased.

CODI (PLEASED)

Zalic Slime Worms could keep me from you.

Codi and Miwea smiles at one another. Naaleraanaa looks over to Nikolai, she notices he is watching her every move. This disturbs her.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

Then we can continue with the tour.

Codi loses her smile.

CODI (BLUNT)

I’m afraid we need to talk.

Miwea looks concerned.

MIWEA (CONCERNED)

I’m all ears.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

No, this is a personal matter. I need to speak to you alone.

NAALERAANAA (CONFUSED)

You are among friends here. I can’t think of anything you can’t say in front of any of us.

Codi ignores Naaleraanaa.

CODI (PLEADING)

Please father, isn’t there some place we can talk privately?

Seeing the concern in her eyes Miwea sighs and forces a smile.

MIWEA (CONCERNED)

Very well.

As they turn to leave Naaleraanaa pulls out a small laser from under one of her wrist bands, Nikolai sees this.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Codi!

Everyone turns to see Naaleraanaa pointing the laser at them.

MIWEA (SHOCKED)

What is the meaning of this Naaleraanaa?

Naaleraanaa smiles.

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

Just filling you in on what they already know. I tried to destroy their ship.

MIWEA (SHOCKED)

What?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

It is true!

CODI (EXPLAINING)

She is a spy father!

NAALERAANAA (DEFENSIVE)

I’m not a spy, but a patriot! He is the spy!

Naaleraanaa points her gun at Nikolai.

NAALERAANAA (DEFENSIVE)

I have stood by your side ever since you left Felina Miwea! I have supported you in everything you did! But can the humanoids say the same? No! They are parasites! They feed off our knowledge and technology! In return they treat us like Prevaricates! They serve no useful purpose and should be wiped out!

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

There were no threats on my father’s life! It was just to stop me going with Nikolai to report to Command Control.

Naaleraanaa nods but keeps her eye on Nikolai.

NAALERAANAA (ANNOYED)

Yes! With the Minsk destroyed, along with all the humanoids, you could take your rightful place next to your father. Just like he wanted you to.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But aboard the Minsk you tried to convince me that she would make a lousy Boswwa!

NAALERAANAA (ANNOYED)

And I still feel that way but I know Miwea wouldn’t believe this until she failed on her own! But with me still around I could easily be reinstated.

MIWEA (STERN)

This has gone on long enough! Put the laz down Naaleraanaa!

Naaleraanaa continues to point the weapon at Nikolai.

MIWEA (STERN)

That was an order Boswwa!

NAALERAANAA (RELUCTANT)

I’m afraid that is an order I can’t follow. There are some things more important like killing this pesky humanoid. Of course, since their ship is well aware of my treachery we will have to destroy it as well. No big loss though since their technology is inferior to ours, same can be said for its crew.

Naaleraanaa takes careful aim at Nikolai.

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

Pray to your god, Exec. For you are about to meet him!

Naaleraanaa begins to pull the trigger. Suddenly, Codi jumps between her and Nikolai.

CODI (STERN)

You’ll have to kill me first!

Naaleraanaa pauses to think and then busts out laughing.

NAALERAANAA (LAUGHING)

You’re as pathetic as the humanoids!

Codi is confused, Naaleraanaa settles down.

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

You think just because you are the daughter of my leader I will not shoot! But you forget you have willingly lived with the humanoids, that makes you one of them in my eyes. Besides, if you die then you can’t replace me as Boswwa.

MIWEA (ANNOYED)

Do you really think you can retain your command after killing my own daughter?

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

Then I guess you’ll just have to die as well. I respect you, Miwea, but I’m afraid the humanoids have corrupted you so I will just have to take you place.

MIWEA (ANNOYED)

Do you really think the others will stand for this?

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

There are others that feel like me, that the humanoids are a waste. Why else would I be assassinating you in the open like this? We should be following Feline’s interests, not the humanoids. We should be allying with The Legion instead of fighting them.

MIWEA (ANNOYED)

You disgust me!

NAALERAANAA (SMUG)

I will take great pleasure in making you watch your daughter die before your eyes!

Naaleraanaa points her weapon at Codi and begins to pull the trigger, Nikolai and Codi can only helplessly watch. Suddenly, a laser hits Naaleraanaa in the chest. She cries out in pain as she drops her weapon and staggers back. Everyone looks to Miwea as he balances on one foot and points his cane at her like a rifle, the end of it has been blasted off and is smoking. She glares at him.

NAALERAANAA (IN PAIN, GASPING)

You fool…

Naaleraanaa falls to her knees.

NAALERAANAA (IN PAIN, GASPING)

You old fool…

She falls forward and dies, Nikolai and Codi look to her with pity but Miwea glares at her with anger. Nikolai then rushes up to her while Codi grabs the laser, Miwea puts the end of his cane back on the floor and leans on it. Nikolai checks for a pulse in her neck but shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

She’s dead.

MIWEA (ANNOYED)

Good!

Miwea spits in Naaleraanaa’s direction.

Nikolai gets up, he and Codi go over to Miwea. He looks sadly to them.

MIWEA (APOLOGETIC)

I must apologize for Naaleraanaa’s actions. She got what she deserved. Had I known I would have killed her long ago.

Codi puts her hand on Miwea’s shoulder.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

We know father, it isn’t your fault.

Miwea looks to Naaleraanaa and looks sad for the first time.

MIWEA (FRUSTRATED)

No, I was her leader… Her mentor… This is all my fault…

Nikolai places his hand on Miwea’s other shoulder and smiles.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Playing the martyr will not make the pain any less. In fact, it will intensify it.

Miwea looks to Nikolai confused.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Trust a man who has tried it a number of times.

Miwea pauses to think and then chuckles, he looks to Codi.

MIWEA (PLEASED)

Like I said before, daughter. A wise choice in a Boswwa.

Codi giggles and Nikolai laughs, they look to one another with a new respect.

INT. MINSK – DOCKING PORT #4>

Security is the same here. Nikolai and Codi step out of the airlock and into the hallway, they are in full dress uniforms. They walk slowly away side by side.

NIKOLAI (AWKWARD)

I have to admit. That was the most, er, unique funeral I ever been to.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

I’m not use to people urinating on a corpse and then introducing a flesh eating bacteria that dissolves the remains.

CODI (CONFUSED)

You expected someone who was a traitor more respect?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

A matter of fact, yes.

Codi stops and so does Nikolai, she looks to him confused and he sees this.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Catherine was a traitor but she was buried with honor, I don’t remember you complaining. After all, she was about to kill you when the Marines stopped her.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Catherine was different. In the end she did betray us but leading up to that she had a very distinguished career. Except for a few incidents she would have been labeled a heroine, Naaleraanaa was the opposite. She was a fair warrior but she was willing to not only kill her commanding officer and the commander and Exec of the Minsk, but the ship itself. Catherine did what she did out of love for you, Naaleraanaa did it out of greed. They were totally different.

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I guess you are right. Though, it is still kind of sad.

Codi sighs.

CODI (BLUNT)

It is about to get a lot sadder.

Nikolai looks to Codi confused, she sees this and collects her thoughts.

CODI (BLUNT)

I’ve decided to stay with my father.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

For our entire patrol?

Codi shakes her head.

CODI (BLUNT)

For the remainder of my life?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Huh?

Codi pulls out a small tape cartridge holder, she holds it out to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

Take this.

Nikolai takes it and looks to the llabel on it.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

This says it is your resignation!

Codi nods.

CODI (BLUNT)

Yes, I want you to send this off too Command Control once you are a good distance away. This will make you commander of the Minsk.

Nikolai hands it back to Codi but sshe refuses to take it.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

No way! I won’t accept this!>

CODI (STERN)

As your commander you have no choicce!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

As you Kalatir I do!

Codi looks sadly to Nikolai.>

CODI (PLEADING)

Please don’t make this any more diffficult than it is.

Nikolai looks into Codi’s eyes and sees her pain, he sighs and lowers his hand.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

At least tell me why. Was it something I did?

Codi smiles.

CODI (REASSURING)

Certainly not.

Codi’s smile fades.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

It is my father. You heard Naaleraanaa. There are others that don’t agree with his methods, they could be as desperate as she was. I have to stay and watch his back.

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

Then he can come with us, we’ll leave here and he will be safe.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I already tried to convince him but he won’t budge. He is a proud leader, he would rather face certain death than life. He was exiled once, another one will kill him.

Nikolai studies Codi and then forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Now I know where you got that stubborn streak from.

Codi giggles but they then look to each other concerned.

CODI (APOLOGETIC)

I just hope you can forgive me one DecaYerk for this.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

You have to be mad at someone first in order to forgive them.

Codi looks to him confused and Nikolai sees this.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Look just because I don’t love my father as much as you love yours doesn’t mean I don’t understand. In fact, I’m kind of jealous of you. You are willing to throw everything away for him. If anyone is a heroine it is you Codi.

The words bring a wave of emotion over Codi, Nikolai is moved too but doesn’t show it as much. They look to each other with mixed feelings.

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

All the desk drawers are open as well as the closet, the room has been turned upside-down. Codi is kneeling before the closet and stuffs something into a large duffel bag. Then she stands up and picks it up, she slings it over her shoulder and looks around.

CODI (BLUNT)

I think that is it.

Nikolai points to some discarded boots on the ground.

NIKOLAI (TEASING)

I’m sure you would want to take those for sentimental reasons.

Codi looks over to where Nikolai is pointing and giggles.

CODI (LAUGHING)

So I can burn them.

Nikolai chuckles, Codi steps up to him. They look at each other, she pauses to collect her thoughts.

CODI (PLEASED)

Look, I really appreciate how you are taking this. I know I have really turned you life upside-down but you have supported me all the way. It has really made this easy for me. Thank you.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I may not like the situation but I know this is something you really want… What you really need… I’d be a horrible Kalatir if I wasn’t there for you.

CODI (PLEASED)

You have always been there for me Nikolai, you have made my life here in an alien world worth living. You helped me to be glad that I’m alive. If Ban were still alive she would be as proud of you as on am. Thank you.

Codi leans over and licks Nikolai on the side of the face, he reaches up and touches his face. He is not sure what to say but that doesn’t last long.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

You have done the same for me. I thought I was fit for command but you promptly proved I was not. But rather than gloating you showed where I went wrong. Thanks to you, I am now ready to be a true leader. I will never forget you.

CODI (REASSURING)

Nor will I ever forget you.

Codi and Nikolai look at each other, they are brought close to tears so Codi reaches into her duffel bag and rummages around.

CODI (EMOTIONAL)

I have something to remember me by.

Codi pulls out the 3-D globe of her, Miwea and her mother. She holds it out to him. He looks to it in awe.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

But it is of your father and mother, surely you have another image of just you I could have.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I do but this one will remind you why I left, that I am happy where I am. Please take it.

Nikolai takes the globe and looks to it.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

I will treasure this always.

Nikolai then looks to Codi, they get all emotional again.

NIKOLAI (EMOTIONAL)

I think we had better say good bye here, I can’t take much more of this.

CODI (EMOTIONAL)

I agree.

Codi then grabs Nikolai and hugs him tight, he hugs her in the same manner.

CODI (EMOTIONAL)

Farwell my Kalatir!

NIKOLAI (EMOTIONAL)

Farewell my Kalatir! You will always be in my heart!

Nikolai and Codi hug each other, they don’t want to let go but the eventually do. A tear runs down her cheek and his eyes are glazing over. They turn away from each other, she heads for the door. As she opens the hatch he sneaks a peek and a tear rolls down his face. She steps through the door and it closes, he bursts into tears. As he whimpers to himself the hatch opens. He turns toward it with hope but Lena steps through.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

What do you want?

LENA (EXPLAINING)

I was figuring you could use a shoulder to lean on.

Nikolai wipes his tears away as Lena steps up to him.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

I’m fine!

Lena reaches up and wipes away a tear he missed.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Look, you may not look to me as a friend as much as Codi but that won’t keep me from being here when you need a friend the most.

Nikolai look to Lena in a new light.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

It must have been awful having to share your friendship. I mean, you were my friend first and then Codi came along.

LENA (REASSURING)

Look, friendship is not like love. With love you are suppose to give it to only one, with friendship it is okay spread it around. I’ll always be your friend.

Nikolai hugs Lena and she comforts him.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you Lena, I really can use you now.

LENA (REASSURING)

We both can.

They stand their and hug each other in silence, a tear runs down Lena’s face.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

All the stations are manned by the main crew, all except the Exec and Command station. Everyone is busy working as the hatch opens, Nikolai steps in his normal uniform. Lena sees this.

LENA (STERN)

Commander on deck!

Everyone sits up in their chairs at attention, he steps up to them and looks rather disgusted.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

At ease everyone. I’m not the commander!

Everyone looks to the insignias on his shoulders, they are still of an Exec Officer.

LENA (CONFUSED)

Surely they will make you commander, you are the next logical choice.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

The last time I made that assumption Codi…

Nikolai’s voice trails off. He pauses to control his emotions.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I’m not officially commander until Command Control states otherwise, till then I’m just protem.

Nikolai steps up to the Command Station but doesn’t have the courage to take it.

LENA (REASSURING)

It is what she wanted.

Nikolai gains his courage and climbs up into the Command Station, he looks around to everyone.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

To me there is only one true commander of the Minsk and her name is Codi.

Everyone looks to Nikolai not sure what to say, he notices this.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Are we set for departure?

LENA (BLUNT)

Yes sir, just give the word.

Nikolai looks around the room and sees all the sad faces.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I know you all feel as I do, we will be leaving one of our own behind. I will try to lead you the best I can, I just hope I do her proud.

Golda smiles to Nikolai.

GOLDA (REASSURING)

You’ll do fine sir.

Ivan smiles.

IVAN (REASSURING)

Just like you did when Trotsky died.

Vladimir smiles.

VLADIMIR (REASSURING)

With you at the helm The Legion won’t know what hit them.

Lena smiles.

LENA (REASSURING)

We all have faith in you, Nikolai.

Nikolai smiles to Lena.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Nikolai looks to the others.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

To all of you.

Nikolai loses his smile.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Take us out of here, gator.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

Yes sir!

Vladimir begins to use his instructer to issue commands, the rest of the crew goes back to work. Lena sneaks a peek to Nikolai, she seems proud of him.

EXT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Minsk slows begins forward, it starts to make its way out.

INT. KLATERA HIDDEN BASE – TUBE

Codi and Miwea are standing here, she still has the duffel bag thrown over her shoulder. They can see the Minsk as she begins to leave. He seems indifferent but she is forcing a smile. He looks over to her but her eyes are locked on the ship.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

Are you sure you want to go through with this?

Codi does not respond, she just focuses on the Minsk.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

Daughter?

Codi still doesn’t respond. He balances on his good leg and pokes her gently with his cane, she snaps out of it and looks to him confused.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

I asked if you still wanted to remain here with me.

Codi forces a smile.

CODI (FALSE ENTHUSIASM)

There isn’t a place I would rather be than by your side.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

You’re still young and not a cripple like me, daughter. I would figure you would be happier out there than in here.

CODI (CONFUSED)

I don’t understand? You were so anxious for me to be here but now you are trying to shoo me away.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

All I want is the best for you so please answer my question. Would you be happier here with me or you friends.

Codi pauses to think and then smiles.

CODI (REASSURING)

My place is by your side. That is where I should be. That is where I want to be. Anywhere else would just be selfish.

Miwea pauses to consider her words, they make him smile. They then look back to the Minsk. The ship continues on its way out through the invisible wall. Once the ship is gone he turns to Codi but her gaze is where the ship disappeared, this makes him frown.

EXT. MINSK JUST OUTSIDE OF HIDDEN BASE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship successfully navigates through the confined area and heads for the Ice Field.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is busy working, Nikolai looks to one of his screens. It is of the ice chunks around the hidden base, he looks rather sad.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Take us out nice and slow, gator.

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

But we are clear of the base.

Nikolai does not answer but keeps his eyes glued to his screen. Vladimir looks over to Lena but she just shakes her head, he seems to understand. He goes back to work.

EXT. MINSK IN THE ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship continues on, far behind it are the cluster of ice around the base. Suddenly, there is an explosion in the center of it jarring the ice.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

The explosion of the base can be seen on Nikolai’s screen, he nearly jumps out of his seat. He gasps.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

What the deposits!

Ivan is busy working his Instructer.

IVAN (EXCITED)

I’m picking a massive explosion unknown in nature behind us!

Nikolai glares at Ivan.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

The base! What about the base?

Ivan looks up to Nikolai in horror.

IVAN (SHOCKED)

It originated in the center of it. The mass of the explosion reports total destruct.

Nikolai glares at the fading explosion on his screen.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

No… Please no…

He stares at it a few more seconds the regains his composure, he looks to Vladimir.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Bring us around gator, we are going back!

Nikolai looks to Ivan.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Give me a full scan spectrum! We’re looking for survivors!

Lena looks to Nikolai.

LENA (CONCERNED)

Whatever destroyed them could destroy us.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Now is not the time to question my authority Engineer Tech!

Lena looks up to Nikolai, he looks like he is about to kill her. She shrugs her shoulders and nods. The others get back to work. Suddenly, Golda looks to them.

GOLDA (EXCITED)

I’m getting something!

Everyone stops their work and looks to Golda.

LENA (CONCERNED)

Friend or foe?

Golda checks her instruments and smiles.

GOLDA (PLEASED)

It is coming in on one of our most highly encrypted codes, it has to be friend.

Everyone but Nikolai cheers.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Path it over to me!

GOLDA (EXCITED)

Yes sir!

Golda uses her Instructer and Nikolai looks to one of his screens, Miwea appears on it from the bridge of the Klatera. He smiles to the Exec and he is just relieved.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, SARCASTIC)

I hope you aren’t going back for us.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, CONFUSED)

Us?

Codi pokes her head into view.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, TEASING)

Did you forget about me already Nikolai?

Nikolai is relieved, he mumbles a quick thank you to God and then smiles to them.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, CONFUSED)

What happened?

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

Shortly after you left there was some sort of malfunction in the mine manufacturing facility. We had just enough time to get everyone on board the Klatera and escape before it exploded.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, CONFUSED)

And the base?

Miwea sighs.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

It was totally destroy.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

Some of Naaleraanaa’s friends?

Miwea just nods.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

All that technology… All that research… Gone…

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

Well not all of it.

Nikolai looks confused, even Codi is surprised.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

We have a secret storage facility within the ice field. This was so our ships didn’t have to go all the way back to our base to refuel and rearm. My plan is to guide you there and allow you to recover everything inside of it.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, CONFUSED)

Why?

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, EXPLAINING)

We are without a home now, maybe your government will allow us to live with your people in exchange for it.

Nikolai smiles as Codi looks to Miwea uneasy.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, SMUG)

I’m sure we can arrange something.

Miwea smiles.

MIWEA (OVER HEADSET, PLEASED)

Excellent.

Miwea smiles to Nikolai and he smiles back, Codi doesn’t seem so sure.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA IN THE ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ships fly side by side as they make their way through the field.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is busy at work, Nikolai looks to Ivan.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Any luck?

Ivan checks his instruments and then shakes his head.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Sorry sir, I’m not picking up the marker beacon to the storage facility.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

That is odd, they said they activated it.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Well I’m not picking anything up.

LENA (BLUNT)

How ironic. The technology that keeps it hidden is keeping it from us.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

The Klatera reports she is going to fan out and look for the facility too.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Knowledge.

Golda mumbles into her headset and Lena looks to Nikolai.

LENA (OFFERING)

Perhaps we should launch of battleships to help the search.

Nikolai pauses to think then shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No, best to keep a low profile. Besides, the bay room will be too busy hauling everything in once we find it.

Everyone continues to work.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA IN THE ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Minsk is close to the camera but the Klatera is very far off, they continue to search the Ice Field.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone is still hard at work here. Suddenly, Ivan looks to Nikolai.

IVAN (EXCITED)

I found it sir!

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Good, transfer the location to the gator so we can get to it.

Ivan begins to use his Instructer, Nikolai looks to Golda.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Notify the Klatera of our findings.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes sir.

As Golda mumbles into her headset Vladimir starts using his Instructer.

EXT. MINSK AND KLATERA IN THE ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Minsk turns and the Klatera is still a good ways away but it turns towards them. As the corvette continues four metallic balls suddenly appear around the ship. One above, one below and two on either side. Bolts of energy strike the ship and a constant flow of energy continues between them. The ship is stopped dead in its tracks.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

The power flickers on and off, both the lights and screens flash between on and off. Finally everything goes dark, it is pitch black. Mummers of confusion fill the room. Suddenly, the power comes back on but at a considerable reduced rate. Everyone has to squint to see their instruments and each other.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Report!

Vladimir tries to work his controls but it is useless, he throws his hands up.

VLADIMIR (FRUSTRATED)

We’re at a dead stop and I can’t get us going again!

Golda tries to work her instruments but they don’t respond, she slams her fist down.

GOLDA (ANNOYED)

All comms except within the ship are out!

Ivan checks his controls and seems to be having some luck.

IVAN (EXPLAINING)

There are four unknown spheres out there, they are sucking the power right out of us. I have limited scan ability.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Then let’s blow them up! Target weapons!

LENA (EXPLAINING)

We don’t have the power for it! In fact, the only power we have are for minimal controls and life sustaining systems. That is why nothing else seems to be working.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Let me guess, this is an Energy Sink!

LENA (BLUNT)

Exactly!

GOLDA (SHOCKED)

It must be a high advanced technology to just target those systems!

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Not at all, they are just a major sap of power. The ship is design in cases like this to automatically divert power to key systems.

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

Can’t we manually redirect what power we do have to the weapons, wouldn’t that be enough?

Lena shakes her head.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

I doubt it. Even if it was possible we would be only able to destroy one at a time. The Energy Sink would most likely adapt as soon as we started firing. It would suck even more power. So instead of just crippling us it would kill us.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

So they want us alive?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Apparently so.

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

But don’t they usually use these things to rip ships out of Ultra-Light. That is the only time they are affective since they are so easy to detected and avoided at normal load.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Yeah but they are being masked. In fact, the only way I can see them is following the energy trail that is being sucked out of us!

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

That sounds very familiar to the invisibility technology the Felinions have introduced to us.

IVAN (BLUNT)

In fact, it has the exact same signature to the mines.

Nikolai and Lena looks to one another.

NIKOLAI AND LENA (IN UNISON, SHOCKED)

The Felinions have betrayed us!

Everyone looks to each other shocked.

INT. KLATERA – BRIDGE

This is similar to the Minsk Bridge except the stations are spread out in clusters and there are more. Miwea and Codi sit in stations next to each other. The Felinions around them are working frantically.

SCAN TECH (EXPLAINING)

The Energy Sink is using our invisibility technology.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

They are? But how?

CODI (BLUNT)

Perhaps it is a little present left behind by Naaleraanaa. That trap may be for us.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Regardless your friends are in trouble and I mean to help them.

Codi smiles and Miwea looks over to the Helmsman. Suddenly, the Scan Tech jumps out of his seat.

SCAN TECH (EXCITED)

I’m picking up a destroyer class ship! Definitely humanoid! It is heading right for the Minsk!

MIWEA (BLUNT)

So the trap is sprung.

The Comm Tech looks to Miwea.

COMM TECH (BLUNT)

I’m picking up a unidirectional transmission.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

Let’s hear it.

Codi and Miwea looks to their screens and Cliff Barolos appears on the screen. He is in a Legion uniform of a Commander and on a small bridge of a ship. He looks rather small and wimpy looking, he smiles.

CLIFF (AMERICAN ACCENT, OVER SCREEN, SMUG)

This is Cliff Barolos of the Legion ship Eagle Eye. I wish to speak to the commander of the Felinion ship Klatera.

Miwea opens his mouth to speak but Codi grabs his arm, he looks to her confused.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

We are invisible to them now but if you respond they could pinpoint us.

Miwea pauses to think and then nods.

MIWEA (FRUSTRATED)

Naaleraanaa’s treachery ran deeper than I thought.

CLIFF (OVER SCREEN, SMUG)

As you can see your communist friends have fallen into the trap that was meant for you. But all is not lost. Drop your invisibility and we will spare them. You have until the time our Destroyer reaches your friends. Their lives are in your paws.

The screen goes dark.

MIWEA (CONFUSED)

Odd, there are ways to detect our invisibility, Naaleraanaa knew of these yet they can’t see us.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Perhaps she was not as trusting as we thought.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

Well in order to turn off the marker beacon they had to enter our storage facility. Maybe they just adapted our technology to theirs, they don’t fully understand it yet.

The Scan Tech looks to them.

SCAN TECH (EXPLAINING)

The signal came near the Minsk, not the Destroyer. I’m picking up a small ship near her, it appears to be some sort of scout ship. No threat to us.

CODI (BLUNT)

But with the Minsk totally defenseless it is a threat to them!

Miwea looks to the Scan Tech.

MIWEA (CURIOUS)

Any chance of us reaching the Minsk, destroying the Energy Sink and escaping before the Destroyer is within range?

The Scan Tech checks his instruments then shakes his head.

SCAN TECH (EXPLAINING)

If we were in open space and could jump to Ultra-Light, yes. But not in the confines of the Ice Field.

Codi and Miwea look to each other frustrated.

MIWEA (FRUSTRATED)

I guess that only leaves one choice.

Codi looks to Miwea.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Surrendering is not the answer, they would than capture both ships. No one would escape.

MIWEA (REASSURING)

I have no intensions of giving up. I meant we will have to take out the Destroyer.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Impossible! Even the Minsk, which is bigger that us, couldn’t even scratch her. Even being invisible after the fire few volleys they would detect and destroy us.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

There is still a way, Ultra Strike.

Codi gasps.

CODI (SHOCKED)

Hitting them at Ultra-Light load? There is probably enough room here for an unsustained jump and that would definitely put them out of action but that would destroy the Klatera and everyone on board.

MIWEA (BLUNT)

That is why I’m issuing an abandon ship, you and everyone else will be off before I initiate the strike. You can escape with the others.

CODI (CONFUSED)

You make it sound like you are staying behind?

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

I have to, final adjustments must be made all the way up to the final MicroYerk.

CODI (PLEADING)

Then let me do it!

Miwea shakes his head.

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

I have lived a good life, daughter. I have done many noble and great things that I am proud of. I am remembered as a great warrior. What more can I ask? But you, you are so young. You have many great deeds still to perform. One of them is finishing your trials of Kalatir with Nikolai. I have done everything to insure that.

Miwea smiles and Codi seems to understand.

CODI (SHOCKED)

It wasn’t Naaleraanaa who sabotages the base but it was you!

Miwea nods.

MIWEA (HONEST)

Yes. Your words said you wanted to be at my side but your eyes told me that you wanted to be with the humanoids. But more importantly you helped me realized what a greedy Sepcor I have been.

CODI (REASSURING)

No! You gave your heart to mother! You saved us all from the Prevaricates! You sacrificed everything for your people!

MIWEA (EXPLAINING)

This is true but that was before I died. When I crashed in that shuttle the great and wise Miwea died along with it. Rather than staying with his people and continue to help them I retreated into my own self pity. I chose to spend the rest of my life wallowing in my disabilities. Worse of all I did everything I could to drag you in with me. Right now, as I sit hear whining and complaining I’m doing just that. That is why I must do this. I must save you and your friends. That is the only way I can redeem myself.

Codi opens her mouth to protest but Miwea cuts her off.

MIWEA (STERN)

There is no time for discussion. Every MicroYerk we argue that Destroyer gets closer! I am the leader here, you are my subordinate. If you refuse me I will have you dragged forcibly away. Please don’t make me do that.

Codi looks to Miwea and sees the pain in his eyes, she stands up and forces a smile.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

I will do as you say. Not because you are my superior, but because you are my father.

Codi goes over to him and hugs Miwea.

CODI (PROUD)

You are still the great Felinion I know and love! You will never be forgotten.

MIWEA (PROUD)

And you have always made me proud, daughter. Even in your exile!

They hug each other tight, a tear runs down her face as he is emotional as well. Then they break apart. They look to each other one last time.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship is still being held within the Energy Sink, a smaller ship that seems to have more engine power than fire power is circling her. It has the same skull and cross bones as other Legion ships. The legion destroyer is closing in on them.

CLIFF (VOICE OVER, SMUG)

Our destroyer is within range of your communist friends, Felinions. Surely you don’t want their blood on your paws. Surrender now, reveal yourselves before it is too late!

Cliff is heard laughing.

EXT. KLATERA IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – CLOSE SHOT

A large shuttle leaves the ship, it is as big as a battleship and sleeker that most shuttles. It turns and heads for the Minsk off in the distance. The Klatera turns towards the Destroyer.

CLIFF (VOICE OVER, SMUG)

This is your last chance Felinions, surrender now or the communists die!

The engines on the back of the Klatera burn brightly, the ship zips towards the Destroyer at super speed. It hits the ship dead center and explodes, additional explosions come from the Legion ship. The Destroyer is snapped in two, the two sections drift helplessly away from each other. More explosions can be seen coming from both halves.

INT. BRIDGE – EAGLE EYE

This is a small cramp compartment filled with all sorts of controls and monitors. Three metal chairs are set into the floor, two in front of one (the third is in the back and slightly elevated) Behind the chairs is a closed hatch, an access button is set into the wall next to it. Cliff sits is the highest chair while two crewmembers are seated in the other two. One of them gasps at his screen.

COPILOT (SHOCKED)

The Destroyer… It’s gone…

CLIFF (CONFUSED)

What do you mean it is gone?

COPILOT (SHOCKED)

She was hit by something… Something moving at Ultra-Light speed… It sliced her in half… Both sections are disabled… Massive fires are running wild… Life form readings are dropping as we speak…

PILOT (SHOCKED)

It had to be the Klatera.

Cliff pauses to take this all in but then smiles.

CLIFF (PLEASED)

Excellent.

The Copilot looks to Cliff.

COPILOT (CONFUSED)

We just lost a destroyer! How can this be good?

CLIFF (SMUG)

With the loss of the ship this has just turned into a battle, a battle we survived and a battle we were able to capture the Minsk for the Legion. We will be decorated by Ted Delrayy himself.

The Copilot is not convinced but Clliff smiles ear to ear.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Panic and confusion grips everyone, Nikolai looks to Ivan.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

They are gone? They are all gone?

IVAN (FRUSTRATED)

I’m afraid so, the Klatera took out the Destroyer but there is nothing left of her. They are all dead.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

It is not fair. It is just not fair. I lost her twice this DecaYerk.

LENA (REASSURING)

We don’t know that for a fact. Withh their invisible technology they could have escaped in a lifeboat. They could all be alive.

Nikolai shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

No, she had to be the one to stayedd behind and pilot the ship. There was no way she would have let anyone else die. She is gone for good.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Regardless of what Codi’s fate is tthe question is what is ours?

IVAN (BLUNT)

I thought that was obvious. With thhe Energy Sink we just sit here and wait for them to ask for our surrender.

GOLDA (ANNOYED)

You are always a comfort Ivan!

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

I say we take them with them! I donn’t want to go down in history as being boarded by Legion! Let’s self destruct!

LENA (EXPLAINING)

Without power we can’t do that. We can’t stop them from taking this ship.

NIKOLAI (DEVASTATED)

All is lost… All is lost…

Everyone looks to Nikolai confused,, he just stares off into space.

INT. BRIDGE – EAGLE EYE

Cliff is very happy while the otherrs work their stations. The Pilot stops working and looks to him.

PILOT (CONFUSED)

The question I have is why did the Klatera sacrifice itself like that?

CLIFF (SMUG)

It was a pitiful attempt to save thhe Minsk.

PILOT (EXPLAINING)

But they knew we were here as well and with the Minsk trapped in our Energy Sink there is no way they can escape. Their sacrifice is all for nothing if they can’t take us out as well.

Cliff loses his smugness and becomees very concerned.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The ship is still trapped in the Energy Sink while the Eagle Eye circles it. The Shuttle from the Klatera quickly closes in on them, as it does it opens fire with lasers. The four balls are quickly destroyed freeing the ship. The shuttle banks off and flies away.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

The lights and instruments power up back to full power, everyone looks around confused.

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

What the…

LENA (EXCITED)

Full power has been restored!

IVAN (EXCITED)

The Energy Sink was destroyed by laz fire but I can’t pick up a ship out there.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Miwea! It has to be him!

IVAN (EXCITED)

The Eagle Eye is powering up its weapon systems!

GOLDA (EXPLAINING)

With power restored they know they are the prey now!

Nikolai looks to Lena.

LENA (EXCITED)

Divert all power to the Quziis!

Lena quickly works her Instructer to issue the orders.

EXT. MINSK IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Eagle Eye turns towards the Minsk and open fires with all she’s got but the shots stop just short of the Minsk, absorbed by its shields.

INT. EAGLE EYE – BRIDGE

The copilot slams his fist down on his console.

COPILOT (FRUSTRATED)

They got their Quziis up in time, we can’t penetrate them!

Cliff looks over to the Pilot.

CLIFF (FRANTIC)

Make best possible load to open space! Prepare for Ultra-Light once we get there!

The Pilot does not knowledge Cliff but quickly works her controls.

EXT. MINSK AND EAGLE EYE IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The Eagle Eye turns to run and speeds away. The missile projectors on the back of the Minsk come to life, they fire a pair of oblong blinding light towards the Eagle Eye. The ship turns and twists trying to avoid them but the missiles stay with her.

INT. EAGLE EYE – BRIDGE

Everyone is in a panic.

COPILOT (EXCITED)

I have a pair of incoming missiles aft! They are closing fast!

PILOT (EXCITED)

I can’t shake them! If they hit us we are dead!

CLIFF (FRANTIC)

Tell the Minsk we surrender! We surrender!

COPILOT (EXCITED)

Too late!

Cliff screams in terror as the other crewmembers vainly work their stations. The room explodes.

EXT. EAGLE EYE IN ICE FIELD (OPTICAL) – CLOSE SHOT

The missiles hit the ship and it explodes, nothing it is left.

INT. MINSK – BRIDGE

Everyone looks to Ivan anxiously, he smiles.

IVAN (SMUG)

Total destruct.

The crew cheers. They pat themselves on the back but Golda is distracted by something in her headset.

GOLDA (CONFUSED)

Wait, I’m getting a message.

Everyone settles down and looks to Golda.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

From who?

Golda smiles.

GOLDA (SMUG)

You will just have to see for yourself.

Nikolai is confused until one of his screens comes to life, it is of Codi in the cockpit of the attack shuttle. He smiles to her and she smiles back.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, TEASING)

Once again Exec, I have to save your tail from the fire.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, SMUG)

That is my job, commander. To make you look good.

Codi giggles and Nikolai chuckles.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, PLEASED)

You don’t know how good it is to see you Codi.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, SMUG)

I think I do. Because I feel the same way towards you Nikolai.

They look at each other for a few more moments with utter joy and then become more serious.

CODI (OVER HEADSET, BLUNT)

We’re coming along side, Exec. Please prepare to dock.

NIKOLAI (INTO HEADSET, BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

The screen goes blank but Nikolai smiles at it.

EXT. MINSK AND ATTACK SHUTTLE IN SPACE (OPTICAL) – CLOSE SHOT

The Minsk slowly moves away from the Ice Field as the attack shuttle from the Klatera is speeding away, it goes faster and faster until it is gone in Ultra-Light. The Corvette continues on alone.

INT. MINSK - CODI'S QUARTERS>

The room has been restored to how it was originally. The duffel bag is on the bed but it is empty now. Codi is here dressed in her normal uniform, she looks around the room and smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

That should about do it.

There are three chimes that sound like a doorbell, Codi looks to the hatch.

CODI (TO HATCH, CONFUSED)

Yes?

NIKOLAI (THOUGH DOOR, BLUNT)

It’s me commander. May I see you?

Codi smiles to the door.

CODI (TO HATCH, PLEASED)

Come on in.

The hatch opens and Nikolai walks in, he is holding the 3-D globe Codi gave him. He walks up to her, they are both pleased to see one another.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

All the Felinion survivors have just gone to Ultra-Light, they are on their way back to Felina.

CODI (CONFUSED)

You mean you let them go with out sharing their technology with us?

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

After witnessing the abuse us humanoids did with it your father was right, best we not get our hands on everything.

Codi and Nikolai look to each other understanding.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

What little survivors we could save from the destroyer are locked up in detention.

CODI (PLEASED)

Good.

Codi stands there to see if there is anything else but Nikolai takes a few seconds to think.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

I also came to return you this.

Nikolai holds out the globe and she looks to it.

CODI (CONFUSED)

You are refusing my gift?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

It is just with your father now gone this is all you have to remember him by.

Codi pauses to think and then smiles.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

You’re wrong Nikolai. I have something more to remember him by than a mere image. I have what is in here.

Codi indicates to her chest.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

All the love… All the fun… All the joy we had is in here. Right next to my mother. He gave his life for you an I. What more could a daughter as for. So you keep it, Nikolai. Because that is the only way you can remember them.

Nikolai looks to Codi and understands.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Are you going to be alright?

CODI (REASSURING)

I’m just going to be fine.

Nikolai looks confused to Codi and she sees this.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Yes, I’ll miss him but you have to realize until a few DecaYerks I thought he was dead already. I will cherish having one last chance to be with my father more than anything even though I had to watch him die. But as a Felinion, I know it is better this way. When he died in the shuttle it was a cowardly act but the way he died this time it was like a hero. He gave up everything for the good of all of us. It is exactly how he always wanted to go.

Nikolai smiles to Codi.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

Yeah, I see what you mean.

Codi smiles to Nikolai as he considers saying something but can’t put it into words, she sees this.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Is there something else?

Nikolai pauses to think but sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

No, I’d better get going.

Nikolai turns to leave but Codi grabs his arm, he stops and looks to him.

CODI (BLUNT)

I’m a Felinion, I can sense something is troubling you. But more over I’m your Kalatir, if you can’t talk freely to me than who can you talk to?

Nikolai pauses and smiles.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Yeah, there is something more.

Codi lets go of him and Nikolai turns back to her.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

It is just you were ready to quit the force and run off with your father. You could have easily just stayed on the ship and return with the rest of the Felinions.

Codi folds her arms and glares at Nikolai.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You know that I can never return home! This is not a curious question but an attempt to pry into my personal life! To find out what I did to be exiled out here!

NIKOLAI (DEFENSIVE)

I’m your Kalatir! My life is your life and vice versa! I’m concerned because I care!

Codi glares at Nikolai but he is not as defensive, she sighs.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

I know, we’re not suppose to have secrets between each other but it is for your own protection. If you ever learned the reason I fear that you would stop being my Kalatir.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

We have been through Hades and back together and more than once. We would give our lives for each other. There is nothing that can separate us.

Codi studies Nikolai and smiles.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

I believe you, Nikolai. And as my Kalatir you do have a right to know the truth.

Nikolai smiles but Codi frowns.

CODI (BLUNT)

But you haven’t even reached the sixth trial, you’re not ready let.

NIKOLAI (DETERMINED)

Then reset the simulation! I’m ready to prove myself!

Codi smiles to Nikolai.

CODI (PLEASED)

That won’t be necessary, you have already passed.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Huh?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

When you allowed me to stay with my father, when you gave me up for good you passed the fifth trial.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But that is what you wanted.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

In the simulation I wanted you to sacrifice me to save the ship but you refused to, it was not what you wanted. But in reality you let just that happen despite how much you didn’t want it to be. You could have easily tried to twist my father’s arm. Also since I would be replacing Naaleraanaa you could have tried and turn her against me. You could have even called in the Marines and force me to stay on the ship, after all now you were in command since I resigned.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Actually I couldn’t. As soon as I left you the tape with your resignation magically got erased. So you were officially still the commander.

Codi smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

Regardless, you completed the trial just like the simulation wanted you to. You have passed.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Great! Now we can move onto trial six!

CODI (PLEASED)

Yes, just like my father had wanted.

Nikolai looks confused to Codi but she frowns.

CODI (BLUNT)

But first we need to get under way. After our report to Command Control they want us to return home.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

That isn’t a good thing.

CODI (REASSURING)

It does matter what they have in store for us next. What does is that I’ll have you by my side once more. Together there is nothing we can’t face.

Codi looks to Nikolai with admiration and he does the same, they continue to stare at one another.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

As the ship continues through space the two Ultra-Light engines on the back light up brightly. The ship begins to move faster until it is lost in oblivion and is gone. The words “THE END” replace the ship.

FADE OUT:

ROLL CREDITS:

THE END