"KALATIR: Trials and Errors!"

"KALATIR: TRIALS AND ERRORS!"

FADE IN:

EXT. DEMOCRATIC FREEDOM IN SPACE (OOPTICAL) – LONG SHOT

This is a huge space platform, in hhas no engines or navigation system but is a self contained towable base. It is heavily armored and has heavily guns all around it. There are also many launching/landing bays. Not only does it have the capacity for flight operations but repair and refueling. There are a few flashes of light around it. The words “22^nd Centroids Presents…” appear.

EXT. DEMOCRATIC FREEDOM IN SPACE (OOPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

As we get a closer look we see therre is a great battle happening around the platform. Battleships (fighters 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) and Assaulters (smaller fighters that don't have any wings or tails and only have one large laser mounted into the nose, a skull and cross bones are painted on the sides) are dog fighting each other around the base. The battleship’s wings are folded out into attack position. As the battle continues loses happen on both sides.

INT. MINSKIAN LEADER - COCKPIT

This is a small fighter cockpit witth a huge windshield and lots of controls. A pilot sits in the ship and checks his instruments. He is wearing a flight suit and a helmet with a smoke black visor which covers most of his face. He is furiously working the controls as the battle continues around him.

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, SARCASTIC)

So you think there are enough targeets Minskian Leader?

The pilot does not divert from the action.

MINSKIAN LEADER (INTO HELMET, BLUNT)

Well the Legion hasn’t been known tto skimp on an ambush.

Minskian Two can he heard laughing..

MINSKIAN LEADER (INTO HELMET, PLEASED)

I’m just glad that the commander snniffed this out and arranged for the North America to be in the area!

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HELMET, CONCERNED)

So you think the commander is fairiing any better than us?

Concern comes over the pilot.

MINSKIAN LEADER (INTO HEADSET, STERN)

Cut the chatter Minskian Two and cooncentrate on the battle!

MINSKIAN TWO (OVER HEADSET, FRUSTRATED)

Yes sir.

The pilot continues to work his conntrols.

EXT. DEMOCRATIC FREEDOM IN SPACE (OOPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The battle rages on as Minskian Twoo’s battleship banks off and goes after one of the Assaulters. The ship does its best to shake off the pursuer but it is pointless, the Battleship closes in for the kill.

INT. MINSKIAN TWO – COCKPIT<

The pilot’s actions are not as franntic as Minskian Leader’s, he is making minor adjustments to his controls. A computer generated cross hairs appear on the pilot's visor, readouts (like distance, speed and trajectory) appear next to the cross hairs. The cross hairs flashes and the word “LOCKING…” appears over the cross hairs. After a few moments the word changes to “FIRE!” The pilot pushes a button on his control stick.

EXT. DEMOCRATIC FREEDOM IN SPACE (OOPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

As Minskian Two chases the Assaulteer lasers fire from the Battleship. They hit the enemy and it explodes, nothing is left of ship.

MINSKIAN TWO (VOICE OVER, EXCITED)

Yahooo!

As the ship continues on three Assaaulters form up behind the battleship.

MINSKIAN LEADER (VOICE OVER, FRANTIC)

Look out Minskian Two! You have a ttrio on your tail!

Before anything can be done the Asssaulters fire, they hit the battleship and it explodes. The three go off after another target.

EXT. DEMOCRATIC FREEDOM IN SPACE (OOPTICAL) – CLOSE. SHOT

On the side of the platform are thee words “Democratic Freedom” and it too has the skull and cross bones insignia.

EXT. MOON BASE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOOT

This is a small moon with a base maade out of metal, it is designed to look like part of the moon. The words “A Steven Today Production…” appears.

INT. MOON BASE – BAY

This is a large room that has a reffueling and repair facility. There are also several metal containers around which some of them are open, we can see they have spaceship parts in them. One of the walls is made out of blue light. There the outside can be seen. In the center of the room in a small shuttle, the hatch is open and a small boarding ramp leads up to it. On the side is the silhouette of Siberia. Below that is the work “Minsk” and below that is “M-2” The hatch to the room opens and Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea (Codi), Nikolai Solace and Milikor rush in. Codi is a cat‑like creature that has the frame of a human but is covered with fur, has finger-like claws on both hands and feet, pointed ears, whiskers and fur covered breasts. This is a Felinion. She has blonde fur with black stripes. Nikolai is about 33 years old, tall, skinny, plain looking and has black hair. Both are wearing similar full dress uniforms (UCF) which are gray with heavy black boots. She has a small golden crown insignia on each shoulder while he only has half crowns. They both clutch laser pistols, he has a small satchel slug over his shoulder. Milikor is a male Felinion with brown fur and green spots, he is much older than the others. He wears a colorful ceremonial robe. The hatch closes as they race into the room, they spot the shuttle and stop. They look to it with glee.

NIKOLAI (RUSSIAN ACCENT, PLEASED)

There she is!

MILIKOR (EXCITED)

We made it!

Codi opens her mouth to reply but llasers whiz by them, they hit the crate next to them. The officers crouch behind a crate but Milikor looks around confused. Nikolai reaches up and grabs him, he pulls him down and lasers pass through the air where he just was standing. As they hide behind the crate he looks to Nikolai.

MILIKOR (THANKFUL)

You saved my life!

More lasers whiz over their heads.<

CODI (BLUNT)

Saved it or postponed your death?

Milikor glares at her but she brushhes it off. The officers pop up and return fire, their targets are an armed group of humans by the hatch. They are wearing leather uniforms with large red skull and cross bones on the chest. The two groups exchange fire.

MILIKOR (FRUSTRATED)

No matter what our fate I owe you aa great debt Exec Officer Solace. You were the one that warned me that this was a trap.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Actually, it was the commander thatt tipped me off.

MILIKOR (FRUSTRATED)

Regardless, I didn’t want to believve that the Democratic Legion arranged this conference not to talk of peace between them and your United Communist Force, that they didn’t want to use Felinions as moderators. But you knew better, you cam prepared. Both I and Felinions everywhere owe you a great debt. Don’t you agree Commander?

CODI (BLUNT)

I think you are exaggerating?

Milikor sneers at Codi.

MILIKOR (ANNOYED)

I should have known someone as disggraceful as you could not appreciate this!

As an added measure Milikor hurls iinsults at Codi in their own native language. Nikolai is confused, that is until another volley of lasers whiz by them.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

You can be sure there are more of tthem on their way. We have to make a break for the shuttle! We need to get Milikor to safety!

CODI (AGREEING)

I concur but someone is going to haave to stay back and provide cover fire.

Nikolai and Codi turn to one anotheer.

NIKOLAI AND CODI (IN UNISON, EXCITED)

I’ll do it!

They look at each other and smile.<

CODI (SMUG)

Well since I outrank you then it loooks like I get to stay.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

But you are more valuable than I, II should stay.

CODI (STERN)

This is not a debate Exec! Get Miliikor to the shuttle and get out of here! That is an order!

Nikolai hesitates and then smiles.<

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Actually, none of us have to stay bbehind.

Codi looks to him confused and he ppats the satchel he is holding, she sees this and smiles. While back at the hatch, the enemy continues to fire. Nikolai and Codi pop back behind the crate and the others stop firing, they wait for them to pop up but they do not.

MALE LEGION (CONFUSED)

They are cowards!

FEMALE LEGION (BLUNT)

Or a lot smarter than we thought.

They look to her and she indicates with her hand for them to fan out. They disperse and approach the crate from all angles. They converge at the same time and point their weapons at the crate but to their surprise the trio is gone, all that is there are several small bombs. They are round, have a red light that is flashing and are beeping. They are all shocked.

MALE LEGION (SHOCKED)

They ARE smarter!

The flashing and beeps are gettingg closer together.

FEMALE LEGION (SHOCKED)

A lot smarter!

They all scream and turn to rum, buut the bombs explode killing them all. Nikolai, Codi and Milikor appear from a crate near by, they smile at their handiwork.

MILIKOR (SMUG)

Looks like the Exec saves the DecaYYerk again.

Codi rolls her eyes. Suddenly, moree lasers whip by them. They look towards the hatch at a new group of Legion is there, they are firing at them. The officers return fire.

CODI (STERN)

Let’s move!

They fire a few more times and thenn race to the shuttle, they run up the ramp and disappear inside. The group races for the craft as well but Nikolai pops out and starts firing, they dive behind some crates and they begin to exchange fire.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

This is a small cockpit full of all sorts of buttons, switches and knobs. Out the front window the Bay can be seen. Codi is in the pilot's chair frantically working the controls while Milikor is in the copilot seat, she is cool and calm but he looks frantic. The laser battle outside can be heard as the ship comes to life. He glares at her.

MILIKOR (ANNOYED)

What are you waiting for you fool? Get us out of here!

Codi continues to work the controls and does not look to him.

CODI (CALM)

I haven’t even gotten to starting the engines yet, calm down.

MILIKOR (ANNOYED)

You dare tell someone of my stature that!

He curses her in Felinion, Codi stops and glares at him.

CODI (STERN)

You say one more word and I’m going to shove you out and use you as a Quzii!

The stare cuts deep into him, he is forced to divert his eyes. She goes back to working the controls.

INT. MOON BASE – BAY

It is as it was before, Nikolai is holding the Legion at bay. Suddenly, he is hit in the arm. He moans with pain and drops his gun, it falls outside the ship. The enemy races for the ship but he ducks inside and the hatch closes, the ramp starts going up.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

Codi continues to work the controlss.

CODI (LOUD, STERN)

How we doing Nikolai?

Nikolai stumbles in holding his wouunded arm.

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN, BLUNT)

No so good.

Everyone looks to him and sees he iis hurt. Milikor gets up and allows Nikolai to sit in his chair, Codi looks to the Felinion.

CODI (STERN)

Get the Medic kit!

Nikolai looks over to Codi.<

NIKOLAI (IN SLIGHT PAIN, BLUNT)

There is no time! We have to get ouut of here now before they take out the engines!

Codi goes back to work and the engiines come on.

CODI (STERN)

Hang on everyone!

Everyone braces themselves for takee off.

INT. MOON BASE – BAY

As the legion heads for the ship roockets underneath fire and the ship hovers up, it turns towards the wall of light. The main engines kick in and the ship races for the light. The Legion fires at the ship but misses, it flies through the light and heads upward. They stop firing and curse themselves.

EXT. SHUTTLE IN SPACE (OPTICAL) – MMED. SHOT

The shuttle flies through space alll by itself.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

Codi flies the ship as Nikolai workks his controls with his good arm, Milikor is sitting in a chair in the back. The officers scan the space outside the windshield.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Where are they?

CODI (BLUNT)

You told them where to find us. Theey will come.

NIKOLAI (DOWN BEAT)

If they are able.

Codi gives a stern look to Nikolai,, he shrugs his shoulders.

EXT. SHUTTLE IN SPACE (OPTICAL) – MMED. SHOT

As the ship continues a corvette (qquarter the size of a frigate with a very small bay and a few light guns) comes out of Ultra-Light and quickly decelerates, it is the Minsk. It is a long ways off.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

The Minsk can be seen out of the wiindshield, everyone is cheering.

CODI (EXCITED)

The Minsk!

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I knew she would come!

Codi looks to Nikolai and he gives a “What?” look. Suddenly, alarms sound. The officers check their instruments.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

We have trouble!

Milikor looks to them.

MILIKOR (CONFUSED)

What kind of trouble?

Lasers whiz by the windshield and tthe ship rocks slightly, more alarms sound.

CODI (EXCITED)

Big trouble!

Milikor looks to them but they offeer no explanations.

EXT. SHUTTLE IN SPACE (OPTICAL) – MMED. SHOT

As the ship races for the Minsk an Assaulter is on its tail, firing. The ship is hit and rocks some, it continues its pursuit.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

The ship continues to rock from thee attacks, Codi fights the controls as Milikor looks on.

MILIKOR (CONCERNED)

What is it?

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

A Legion Assaulter is on our tail!<

CODI (EXCITED)

There is only one so it must be a ppatrol!

MILIKOR (CONCERNED)

Surely the Minsk will help us!

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

We are too far away and all our Batttleships are deployed at the battle, we’re on our own!

MILIKOR (CONCERNED)

Then we need to fight back!<

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

We don’t have any weapons! And the Quziis we have are not match for it! The ship is not designed for combat!

CODI (BLUNT)

We really need to change that!

MILIKOR (CONCERNED)

But if we are in such great danger why haven’t we been destroyed?

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

It has only been taking potshots att us! If he takes the time to get a solid lock were through!

A light flashes on the controls andd Codi looks at it.

CODI (BLUNT)

Like that!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Oxidation!

Codi frantically works the controlss as the others look on.

EXT. SHUTTLE IN SPACE (OPTICAL) – MMED. SHOT

The ship frantically twists and turrns trying to shake the fighter but no matter what it does the Assaulter sticks with them.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

Codi works frantically to save themm, the light is still flashing.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

I can’t break the lock!

MILIKOR (CONFUSED)

What are we going to do?

CODI (BLUNT)

Die of course!

Milikor is devastated, Nikolai pausses to think and then looks to Codi.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

My only regret is that I was never able to become your Kalatir.

Codi looks to him in shock. They exxchange glances, no words need to be said to convey their feelings.

INT. ASSAULTER - COCKPIT

This is a small cockpit which has mmany controls, panels and systems. A Legion Guardian (large android with jet black armor and smoke black visors) is flying the ship without moving (a large cable is connected to his helmet and runs to a console next to his head) The shuttle can be seen out of the windshield.

ASSAULT CONTROL (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

Target is locked, destruction probaability is 97%. Fire!

But before anything can happen the cockpit explodes.

EXT. ASSAULTER IN SPACE (OPTICAL) –– MED. SHOT

The ship turns into a fireball and is destroyed, on its tail in Minskian Leader. The ship flies through the fire and exits out the other side, it does a victory roll.

INT. SHUTTLE - COCKPIT

Outside the side window Minskian Leeader can be seen flying along side, everyone is happy to see them.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thanks for the assist!

MINSKIAN LEADER (OVER SPEAKER, SMUG)

How can it be an assist? You guys ddon’t have any guns.

Nikolai laughs but Codi looks ratheer crossed.

CODI (STERN)

I thought I ordered all battleshipss to the battle?

There is a long pause.

MINSKIAN LEADER (OVER SPEAKER, SMUG)

I went to the battle, you just didnn’t say we had to stay there.

Codi still has a sour look on her bbut that quickly fades.

CODI (PLEASED)

Well this is one time I’m glad for a unique interpretation of my orders. Thanks for saving our tails Minskian Leader.

MINSKIAN LEADER (OVER HELMET, PLEASED)

That is what they pay me for, Commaander. Now if you will please follow me in we’ll all go home.

CODI (PLEASED)

We’ll be right behind you.

Codi continues to work the controlss as Minskian One speeds up and takes the lead.

EXT. MINSKIAN LEADER/SHUTTLE IN SPAACE (OPTICAL) – MED. SHOT

The fighter leads the Shuttle towarrds the Minsk. The word “Kalatir:” appears. After a few seconds “Trials and Errors!” appears next to it.

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. A nurse sits behind the desk checking her screen. The Lead Medic Tech is here, 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. Everyone is wearing white uniforms with headsets. Nikolai is sitting on the table, his uniform as been torn away from the wounded area. Ken is using a small hand held laser to painlessly seal up his wounds. When he finishes he clips it to his belt and pulls out a small hand scanner, he uses it on Nikolai. He checks the readout.

KEN (BLUNT)

I’m sorry to inform you Exec but you are going to make a full recovery.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Well you are the one that patched me up Ken so that is yet to be seen.

Ken does a mock laugh and Nikolai does a real one, they both smile at one another. The hatch opens and Codi steps in, she is still in uniform but her boots are missing. Everyone looks to her. Ken puts his scanner away as she steps up to them.

CODI (BLUNT)

So what is the report Lead Medic Tech?

Ken smiles.

KEN (PLEASED)

He’s all yours Commander.

Nikolai hops off the table.

KEN (SMUG)

Just try and go easy on him, I’m really getting sick of having to patch him up.

Nikolai laughs but Codi doesn’t find anything funny. Seeing this Ken goes over to the Nurse and begins to talk with her.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

We got Milikor safely back to his ship, it has just jumped to Ultra-Light. I have ordered us to do the same.

Nikolai nods.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Then we had better get up there.

Codi shakes her head.

CODI (BLUNT)

No, the bridge crew can handle that. We need to talk.

Nikolai is confused but Codi offers no answers, instead she turns and heads for the exit. Nikolai reluctantly follows. When she reaches it she presses a button with the symbol of a hatch on it, the door slides open. They both exit and the door closes behind them.

INT. MINSK - CORRIDOR

This is a long hall bustling with aactivity (people), Nikolai and Codi slowly walk down it. He looks concerned while she is distant. They walk in silence for a bit.

CODI (CURIOUS)

Did you mean what you said on the sshuttle, about your regrets?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Every word of it. I promised Ban ass she died in my arms to replace her as your Kalatir, your bonded friend for life. I want to be able to fulfill my promise to her and you.

Codi walks in silence as she contemmplates. Finally, she sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

I have a confession to make, Nikolaai. I have been putting the process to turning you into my Kalatir off on purpose.

Nikolai stops and grabs her arm, shhe stops as well and looks to him.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I have done all you asked! I have sstudied to ancient scrolls you have given me! I know all the basics inside and out! You have tested me numerous times and I always come on top! I’ll make a great Kalatir!

Codi looks down to the hand that grrabs her, Nikolai sees this and lets go.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Sorry.

Then Codi looks to him again.

CODI (HONEST)

Being a Felinion our senses, our innstincts are well above that of Humans. I can sense you would make a great Kalatir.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Then why have you put this off?

CODI (BLUNT)

Because I would be a lousy Kalatir for you.

Nikolai is confused, Codi sees thiss but just turns and starts walking. He walks along side her, she collects her thoughts.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

There are some things about me I caan’t explain, some really nasty things. As you are now, the humanoid term for friend, this poses no threat to you. But if you were to become my Kalatir that would all change, you would have to share my burden. That is something I cannot allow.

Nikolai stops.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Oxidation Deposits!

Codi stops and looks to him.>

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I stood up for you against the Admiiral! He wanted me to help discredit you! To arrange so not only you and Ban but all Felinions would be kicked out of the Force! But I refused, I put my entire career on the line for you! You were so impressed with what I did you agreed to let me be your Kalatir!

Codi pauses to take in all he says..

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

A lapse in my judgment.

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

Please don’t take this away from mee! If you do Ban and Catherine would have died for nothing!

Codi looks to him and contemplates,, he looks to her with pleading eyes.

CODI (STERN)

It will be tough, tougher than anytthing you have ever done.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

With all due respect I’m sick and ttired of being told that. I want to prove myself to you. Please give me a chance!

Codi sighs.

CODI (BLUNT)

I don’t know why I’m getting so worrked up over this, you won’t pay the initiation anyway.

NIKOLAI (HOPEFUL)

Is that a yes?

Codi only nods. Nikolai grabs Codi and hugs her.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Thank you Codi! You won’t regret itt!

CODI (ANNOYED)

I already am!

Nikolai lets go and Codi looks crosss with him.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Sorry commander.

Codi turns, they begin to start dowwn the hallway again.

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

The ship continue on at normal speeed. It starts going faster and faster until it disappears off on the horizon.

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 is standing in the center and Codi walks up to him, in each of her hands are mugs carved out of stone that have hieroglyphics on them. She hands him one and he takes it, he looks at it.

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

So this is the Kak-Tok?

Codi nods.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Yes, it is a concoction make of the vilest and disgusting things known to Felinions. It is so bad tasting some pass out at the mere sight of it.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

You Felinions sure know how to have fun.

CODI (STERN)

This is no laughing matter Nikolai! You are to drink the contents in one gulp. Since I offer this as a Kalatir throwing up or spitting it out would be an insult. To do so would automatically disqualify you as a Kalatir!

Nikolai looks up to Codi.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

If I thought this was some joke would I be here? Would I put myself through this?

Codi studies Nikolai and smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

I guess not.

Codi and Nikolai look to the glasses in their hands, they look rather ill.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Who should go first?

Nikolai looks up to her.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Since you are so positive I will fail I’d better go first so if I do fail you don’t have to endure this.

Codi looks up and wants to say something but it is too late, he down the contents of the mug in one gulp. Afterwards he has a horrid look on his face, Codi feels his pain.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Pretty bad, isn’t it.

Nikolai pauses, the ill look fades from him.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Actually, it tastes pretty good.

CODI (CONFUSED)

It did?

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Yeah, I like it.

Codi looks to her glass confused.

CODI (SURPRISED)

I guess I was so caught up in how foul it tastes to me I forgot you are a humanoid, your tastes differ from us Felinions.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I guess this is one time it pays to be human.

Nikolai smiles but Codi is not amused, she looks up to him.

CODI (BLUNT)

Might as well get this over with.

Codi takes a deep breath and downs the contents of her mug, she shows as much discomfort as Nikolai did but hers does not fade. Though she tries her best she gags on the concoction and begins to throw up. But she drops her glass and covers her mouth with both hands, she swallows it again as it tastes even worse. It takes all her resolve to keep it down. After a few moments she recovers from her ordeal, she removes her hands from her mouth. Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Now that wasn’t so bad.

Suddenly, Codi becomes weak. Her legs give out under her and she falls to her kneels, she begins to shake violently. Nikolai drops his mug and crouches next to her. She falls into his arms, she continues to convulse uncontrollably.

NIKOLAI (FRANTIC)

You’re burning up! I had better call for a Medic Tech!

Codi grabs his arm and looks to him the best as she can.

CODI (ILL, WEAK)

No… All they can do is pump my stomach… If they do I cannot be your Kalatir…

Nikolai looks to her concerned, she looks back through pleading eyes. He sighs and pulls her up to her feet, he drags her over to the mattress and lays her down. Then he goes over to the sink, grabs a washcloth and dampens it. He goes back over to her, all the while she shakes uncontrollably. He kneels next to her and dabs her forehead with the cloth and tries to comfort her the best he can.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

It will take some time for it to work itself out of your system. Until then I’m not leaving your side.

CODI (ILL, WEAK)

No… You have duties… You should be on the bridge…

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

We’re on our way home, there isn’t much to do. The crew can handle it. My place as a Kalatir is by your side.

Codi looks to him and smiles, he smiles back. Suddenly, she grabs her gut and hisses in pain. All he can do is look on and empathize with her.

EXT. MARS (OPTICAL) - LONG SHOT

The planet looms alone off in the vvoid of space. We zoom into the planet from deep space. The following appears over this:

PLANET: Mars

DIAMETER: 4,000 Millis

SATELLITES: Two

CITIES: Two

POPULATION: 2.4 Million

EXT. MARS (OPTICAL) - MED. SHOT

A closer look to the planet revealss a fleet in orbit around it as well as doomed cities on the surface. The ships consist of a Battlecruiser (a huge ship with three large fighter bays bathed in strange green light, is heavily armed and in the shape of a giant wing), three Destroyers (half the size of the Battlecruiser and heavily armored), seven Frigates (half the size of the Destroyers with a small fighter bay and some guns) and 19 Corvettes (quarter the size of a frigate with a very small bay and a few light guns). Each ship has a large Russian Red star painted on its side. Below that are the words: “UNITED COMMUNISTIC FORCE” Some of the other ships have “DEMOCRATIC DEFENSE FORCE” scratched out. Over this appears:

MILITIA FORCE:

Battlecruiser ‑ 1

Destroyers ‑ 3

Frigates ‑ 7

Corvettes ‑ 19

The Minsk flies into view and heads for the fleet.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

This is a huge room with two shuttlles and four Battleship Fighters on one side and refueling tanks and repair equipment on the other. In the center of the room is shuttle M-2. Above is a huge mechanical arm. Codi and Nikolai is walking towards it. Codi has recovered, she is a little groggy but is much better. They both wear headsets (hers has been modified to fit her) Techs go about their business. They stop and look to each other, they have grime looks on their faces.

CODI (CONCERNED)

I could go with you as support.

Nikolai shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

The Admiral asked for me specificallly, not you. Besides, you haven’t fully recovered from the Kak-Tok.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Yes but I hate to send you into the Zalic Slime Worms’ den.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Relax, the Admiral was against us but now he is on our side. He told me so. He supports Felinions in the force now.

CODI (CONCERNED)

If that was the case then why didn’t he ask for me? A Felinion and your commander?

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I don’t know, maybe he is going to give me a medal or something.

CODI (STERN)

If that was true Command Control woould have notified me.

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

Look, we can go back and forth guesssing all DecaYerk but we won’t know his true intensions until I go.

Codi looks to him and sees he is teelling the truth she nods.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

I guess you are right. But your meeeting is not for another three Yerks, why are you leaving now?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I want to go and visit an old friend.

Codi looks to him confused but when she sees he isn’t going to offer and information she smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Well, I’ll let you go. You be careful down there. You aren’t a Kalatir yet.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I will.

They exchange looks of concern and then Nikolai turns and heads up the ramp, after he boards the ship the hatch closes. The ramp starts up and the mechanical arm above it begins to lower towards the shuttle. Her smile fades and she has a look of concern.

EXT. MARS CITY (OPTICAL) – CLOSE SHOT

On the surface of the planet is a llarge domed city, large laser guns and missile batteries surround the dome outside. It is not made of plastic or glass but of a visible Quzii shield. Inside everything is made of metal, there are buildings of all sizes. From Skyscrapers to one story buildings. Vehicles of all sizes zip around in the air. Some are civilian and some are military. Everyone goes about their business. Shuttle M-2 flies towards the dome, it is going to hit it. At the last second the dome area before it changes color and the shuttle passes through undamaged. After is passes the dome changes back to its normal color.

INT. MARS CITY – MEMORIAL YARD – REEMEMBRANCE ROOM #3

This is a small room that looks a little like a church. To one side is a platform with a rectangular altar, to the other side are rows of chairs. Everything is decorated in white, on the wall is a crucifix. Nikolai is led from behind a curtain into the room by a man, the Caregiver. He is an older man dressed in a white decorative robe and a cross hangs around his neck. He leads Nikolai into the center of the room, he looks to him.

CAREGIVER (PLEASANT)

Will this do?

Nikolai glances around, when he sees they are alone he looks to the man.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

This will do just fine.

The man is pleased and pulls out a small handheld computer.

CAREGIVER (PLEASANT)

And who will you be seeing today?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

CW-4382912-UCF.

The man smiles and punches in the number into the computer, it beeps pleasantly.

CAREGIVER (PLEASANT)

This should only take a moment.

The man looks to his computer and Nikolai seems a bit distraught.

INT. MARS CITY – MEMORIAL YARD – STORAGE AREA

This is almost like a warehouse, thhere are row upon row of metal rectangular metal containers each has an identification number on it. The one marked “CW-4382912-UCF” opens up and a large rectangular block of clear plastic slides out and hovers magically. There is something encased inside but we can’t see what it is. The plastic turns and zips away.

INT. MARS CITY – MEMORIAL YARD – REEMEMBRANCE ROOM #3

Nikolai paces nervously as the Caregiver doesn’t have a concern in the world, he has put his computer away. The ceiling above the altar opens up, they look to it.

CAREGIVER (PLEASED)

Here we go.

The plastic container from the Storage Area floats down from the opening, it softly lands on the altar. We can see someone is inside but we can’t tell who. The man looks to Nikolai.

CAREGIVER (PLEASANT)

I will leave you alone. If you need anything I will be right outside.

Nikolai doesn’t take his eyes of the block but nods. The man smiles, turns and leaves under the curtain. Nikolai stares at the plastic for the longest time, fear shows in his face. He collects his courage and slowly steps up to the plastic, we now see it is Catherine Welchof whom is encased inside. She is about the same age as he, tall, attractive and is a blonde. She is in a full dress UCF uniform, the insignias on her shoulders indicate she is an Exec Officer. She looks most relax and even has a smile on her face. As soon as he sees her face he loses it, he openly bursts into tears.

NIKOLAI (EMOTIONAL)

Oh Catherine… I’m so sorry…<

Nikolai lays his upper body on top of the casket and lays his head down, he continues to weep uncontrollably.

INT. MARS CITY – MILITARY SECTOR – CORRIDOR

This is a metallic hallway with many hatches, humans in military uniforms rush here and there. One of them is Abraham Solace. He is an older man with gray hair and bread but is dressed in very casual civilian clothes, clipped on his belt is a hand held computer. He strides down the hallway confidently, this is a man on a mission.

INT. MARS CITY – MEMORIAL YARD – REEMEMBRANCE ROOM #3

Nikolai has recovered from his grief, he looks down to Catherine sadly.

NIKOLAI (SADLY)

Oh Catherine… I miss you so much…

VOICE (RUSSIAN ACCENT, BLUNT)

As we all do.

Nikolai turns to the curtain to see Abraham step out from underneath it. He smiles at the officer but the Exec sneers back.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

What in the Deposits are you doing here Abraham?

ABRAHAM (PLEASED)

Visiting my son.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

You are forgetting that your son died when you divorced!

Abraham loses his smile.

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

I’d think that this would be the last place you would want to joke about death.

Nikolai looks to Catherine, his anger fades.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

How did you know I was here?

Abraham smiles.

ABRAHAM (SMUG)

When you are the Primary Scientist of Command Control you can run any query or program against the travel roster.

Nikolai looks back to him.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

That explains that you knew I was in the city but not exactly where I was.

ABRAHAM (HONEST)

I couldn’t imagine you going anywhere first.

Nikolai nods and looks back to the body.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What do you want?

ABRAHAM (HONEST)

Just to talk to you.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

As you can see I’m busy.

Abraham goes over to a chair and sits down.

ABRAHAM (REASSURING)

I can wait.

Nikolai turns to him.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Since you can’t take a sutle hint I’ll tell you up front. You can wait until Hades freezes over and I’ll still won’t talk to you. You can’t waltz back into my life and expect everything is as it was!

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

I’ve always been here.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

No, you were always in your lab! You always had your nose buried in one of your experiments. You were more interested in them than caring for your wife or raising me!

ABRAHAM (STERN)

I had priorities! If I hadn’t the human race would be extinct now!

Nikolai laughs.

NIKOLAI (LAUGHING)

All you did was adapt the technology the Felinions gave us to survive on our own. You’re a tinker, not a scientist.

ABRAHAM (ANNOYED)

Thanks to my tinkering we are in thhe process of restoring Earth's atmosphere! We are able to travel through the stars at the load of light! We have protection for this city and our ships thanks to the Quzii Deflector System! The human race would be nothing without me!

NIKOLAI (LAUGHING)

All you have given us is your ego!<

Nikolai settles down.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

And because you had your nose burieed in your technology mother and I have nothing!

ABRAHAM (CONFUSED)

What was I suppose to do? Turn my bback on the human race?

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Yes, but just for a Yerk or two a DDecaYerk. So you could spend time with your family.

ABRAHAM (ANNOYED)

Listen to you! You sound a like a llittle kid yet you are 33 KiloYerks old! You’re old enough to get past this!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

That is the whole point! If it was as you say then of course I could forgive you. But for two-thirds of my life you played with that technology. After it was developed you kept tinkering it because it gave you fame and fortune! All you ever cared about was yourself! And because of that I hate you!

Abraham pauses to think.

ABRAHAM (HONEST)

No, that is where you are wrong. I do care for someone else.

Nikolai turns back to Abraham.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Name me one person and I’ll forgive you!

Abraham points to the front of the casket and Nikolai looks there, he sees a pair of fresh flowers set into two pots attached to the front. Nikolai is confused.

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

Those didn’t get there by accident.

Nikolai looks to Abraham.

ABRAHAM (HONEST)

Once a CentaYerk I come and visit Catherine, I place fresh flowers. Because I know you can’t, you off doing your duty. I knew you loved her, that is why I do it.

Nikolai looks back to the body.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

If it wasn’t for you I would have never met Catherine. I don’t know if that is a blessing or a curse. I don’t know if I should hate you for it.

Abraham shakes his head.

ABRAHAM (FRUSTRATED)

I see I have lost you, I can never get you back. I’m wasting my time.

Abraham gets to his feet and turns towards the exit, Nikolai looks to him.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Wait!

Abraham stops and looks over his shoulder to him, confused.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Please stay.

Abraham pauses, then turns toward him. Nikolai looks down to his feet.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

You are right, at my age I should be able to get over this.

Nikolai looks over to the cross.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

It's God's job to judge people. It's ours to forgive our enemies. No matter how heinous the crime or how much they have betrayed us. If we can forgive our enemies then surely I can forgive my own father.

Nikolai looks to him and Abraham looks back, they seem to be able to read each other’s mind. Then they rush towards one another and hug, they both fight back the tears. After a few seconds they break apart and look at one another.

ABRAHAM (THANKFUL)

Thank you Nikolai.

NIKOLAI (THANKFUL)

No, thank you.

Abraham is confused and Nikolai goes back over to the casket, Abraham joins him. They both look to the body.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Though I miss her so much I am grateful that I had a chance to know her, to love her. We had so many good times together, I will always cherish them. All thanks to you, father.

Abraham smiles.

ABRAHAM (PLEASED)

You two went out for a long time, longer than your mother and I. Yet you never got married, I always regretted that.

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I was afraid I was going to turn out to be you. Always fighting with my wife. Always storming out angry. I wish I could have gotten over my fears.

Abraham puts his hand on his shoulder but says nothing.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Now that we are on speaking terms I can thank you for saving my career. I know it was you that talked Command Control in not demoting me after Trotsky’s death.

ABRAHAM (MODEST)

It was actually most of Joseph’s doing, I was there for support.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Still, after how I treated you, it was most kind of you.

ABRAHAM (MODEST)

That is all in the past, we should focus on the future.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

So what is the future for us?

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

First of all, we get that Sepcor commander of yours.

Nikolai looks to him.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

Once we get her out of the picture then you can command the Minsk as you always meant to be.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I don’t want to command the Minsk, at least not by destroying someone else.

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

But she is a Felinion, a lower bread than us. She should be licking your boots!

NIKOLAI (STERN)

You have seen their technology, they are far superior to us. It is the same with their emotions and feelings, I have learned a lot from them.

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

Bah, they must have stole it from another race. They can’t be that smart.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

If you didn’t spend so much time looking down to others and actually listened you might actually learn how wrong you are.

ABRAHAM (BLUNT)

And if you would come down your pedestal every once in a while maybe you would see things my way.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Listen to you! MY WAY! Not our way or the right way! MY WAY! That is all you care about! You! Well I’m glad you divorced mother! I’m glad you left us! Otherwise I might have turned out to be you! That is something I could never live with!

ABRAHAM (ANNOYED)

Why you little-

Nikolai turns and heads for the curtain.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Mother was right! You will never change!

Nikolai storms out, Abraham stares at the curtain for a few moments and then looks to the body. He is lost in thought.

INT. MARS CITY – MILITARY SECTOR – JOSEPH OFFICE

This is a large office decorated wiith expensive furniture, plush carpeting and fancy wall coverings. The walls and desk are covered with awards and metals of honor. Nikolai enters and salutes Joseph sitting at the desk, the Admiral seem pleased to see him. He salutes back.

NIKOLAI (OFFICIAL)

Nikolai Solace, Exec Officer of thee Minsk, reporting as requested sir.

JOSEPH (PLEASED)

You can relax, Nikolai.

Nikolai goes at ease and Joseph laughs, he stands up.

JOSEPH (PLEASED)

I’ve known your family for KiloYerks, we can skip this Deposits.

Joseph goes over to him and holds out his hand, Nikolai smiles and takes it. They shake hands.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

It is good to see you sir.

JOSEPH (PLEASED)

My name is Joseph, don’t be afraid to use it.

Nikolai nods and Joseph indicates to a chair in front of the desk, Nikolai sits down. Then Joseph walks back around and sits behind the desk, they smile at one another.

JOSEPH (PLEASED)

So how are you doing?

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Fine Joseph. Especially since I just came from seeing Catherine.

Joseph loses his smile.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I see she was interned as an Exec Officer but she died only a Gator.

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

She had an outstanding Military career, that is why she was allowed to be interned with a UCF id number. We kept the classification you gave her while you were in command of the Minsk in honor of her.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I appreciate that, Joseph.

They two men smile and look at each other with respect. But Nikolai’s smile fades.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

But I’m sure you didn’t call me here to relive the past.

Joseph loses his smile too.

JOSEPH (BLUNT)

No, I didn’t. But not to worry, you’re not in trouble. In fact, it is the exact opposite.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

Oh?

Joseph pauses to collect his thoughts.

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

You may have noticed that your missions have given you a high exposure to Felinions. Escorting, extraction, even meetings. This is not a coincidence.

Nikolai looks concerned but says nothing, this is seen.

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

As you pointed out to me in this very office not too long ago we don’t know a lot about Felinions. We know some of the technical data about their species and their physical capabilities. But who they are, what they stand for and such are still a mystery to us.

NIKOLAI (OFFERING)

Especially why they refuse to join us in our war against the Legion.

Joseph nods.

JOSEPH (AGREEING)

Exactly. That is why Command Control has sent you on all these missions, to help us understand their ways and customs.

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I’m afraid it has been for nothing. They won’t let us approach their home world and the few that have decided to leave and mingle with us humans are tightlipped with what they know. Even my Felinion commander says little.

JOSEPH (REASSURING)

Yes, but as we had planned your exposure has paid off for us. Thanks to you and your Felinion friend the walls of mistrust are starting to crumble.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Excuse me?

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

The Court of Chaw, the ruling body of the Felinions, has granted you an audience. They want you to go to them and spend some time with them. Apparently, they are as curious about us as we are about them. They want a culture exchange and they want it with you.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Me? Why me? I’m neither an ambassador nor a diplomat. What if I say the wrong thing or do the wrong action.

JOSEPH (STERN)

Make sure you don’t! They are allowing you one other person to accompany you, take an advisor along. Someone you can trust, someone who knows Felinions. Command Control has authorized you to pick anyone you wish, no matter who. They cannot refuse. Just be sure not to blow this!

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

You have the wrong man, Joseph. I’m a warrior, I know how to kill not how to hold hands.

JOSEPH (STERN)

We have no choice, you have no choice. They want you and only you. I could easily force you to go but that may affect your performance. You have to want to go.

Nikolai shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

In that case I say no.

JOSEPH (BLUNT)

You were the one that said we had to open our eyes and ears to Felinions, how they weren’t just a bunch of animals but they were as intellectual as us. This is your chance to prove you are right! That is why you have to go!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

That is why I can’t go!

Joseph is confused and Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

This is the Felinions’ big chance for them to shine through. To put all their critics to shame. But if I mess this one up, not only will I be proven wrong but the process we have had with the Felinions will be erased. I could never live with myself!

JOSEPH (BLUNT)

You consider your fear a disability where I find it as an asset. Because of it you will be careful, you will be cautious so you won’t make any mistakes. Your passion for the Felinions will shine through. But more importantly is if we are forced to refuse, if we send no one they will consider this an insult that we think they are not worth to waste our time on. If you don’t go you WILL erase all of their progress.

Nikolai pauses to think and then nods.

NIKOLAI (RELUCTANT)

I’ll go.

Joseph is pleased, Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Funny how the last time I was in this office you reprimanded me for sticking up for the Felinion interests, now it is you that is.

JOSEPH (SMUG)

A lot has changed in that short time, for the better. Much more will change even yet.

Nikolai is pleased to hear that.

JOSEPH (EXPLAINING)

Okay, now that you have agreed to go I can give you a complete briefing.

Joseph begins to talk to him and Nikolai listens intensely.

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

The fleet continues to orbit the planet, the Minsk is still apart of this.

INT. MINSK - NIKOLAI'S QUARTERS

This is a small modest room with a bed, a chair, a desk and closest. On the desk is a small computer console. Fastened on the wall at waist height is a seat belt like strap. Codi is sitting on the bed. She wears a small vest and shorts with no boots, this is her standard uniform. Nikolai is standing before her still in his dress uniform, he is speaking to her. She gasps and jumps to her feet.

CODI (SHOCKED)

They want you to do what when you’rre with the court?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

They want me to learn more about thhe Prevaricate issue.

CODI (SHOCKED)

I could tell you everything you neeeded to know about them! They are horrible vicious animals that nearly kill my entire race!

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

That is what the problem is. Feliniions out here say exactly that but we don’t know if that is exactly the truth.

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

Are you calling us liars!

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Absolutely not. But, with all due rrespect, those that have left aren’t exactly the stellar representatives of your race. They are out here to persuade their own interests. Their view may be tainted.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You ARE calling us lairs!

NIKOLAI (STERN)

What I’m doing is what I have been ordered to do. For the first time Command Control is on our side. They are for Felinions. It is best not to go nuts and screw that all us.

CODI (ANNOYED)

If they pursue the Prevaricate pathh they will do that to themselves.

Nikolai sighs, Codi sees he is frusstrated and sits back down.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

Look Codi, I need your help. You arre my commanding officer and you aren’t my Kalatir so you have no obligation to help me. Regardless I can’t do this without you.

Codi looks into Nikolai’s eyes, alll she sees is despair. She sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

I guess it is time you learned the truth. I’ll help.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Codi smiles up to him.

CODI (REASSURING)

As far as us becoming Kalatirs, I tthink it is time for us to take a step closer.

Nikolai is pleased but Codi’s smilee fades, she stands up.

CODI (BLUNT)

But first we need to break orbit.

Codi walks towards the hatch, pressses the button and leaves. He stands their and wonders if something good or bad has just happened.

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

The ships continue in their orbit oof the planet.

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. Codi is seated at the Command Station and is monitoring one of her screens. Vladimir Vladivostok is seated at the Gator station as is too monitoring his controls, he is a fairly handsome man wearing a UCF uniform and is wearing gold symbols of a compass on his shoulders. Ivan Alexander, a geeky looking man who is wearing a standard Minsk uniform and has golden symbols of eyes and ears, is seated at the Sensor Station. Lena Pagoda, a fairly attractive woman with red hair and wearing a standard uniform which has gold wrench symbols on it, is seated at the Engineer Station. 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 Exec station, he is back in his standard uniform. 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. Nikolai smiles over to Codi.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

So how are you enjoying your new uniform commander?

Codi looks herself over pleased.

CODI (PLEASED)

I love it. I have more freedom and movement with this modified one, I don’t get hot and sweaty either. But I’m really grateful I don’t have to wear the boots, my paws were killing me. It is just a shame I can dress like this only when I’m on board and the big brass isn’t around.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Well I’m just glad we could use Clause of Modification to help you. Per the regs we unanimously voted for it. We’re just lucky none of Command Control or the upper UCF officers objected.

LENA (SMUG)

I think we can thank your mother for that, Exec.

CODI (CURIOUS)

Oh?

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

All I did was ask her to support it, being a Select Woman within the government she can do as she likes.

Codi looks around to everyone.

CODI (PLEASED)

No matter how it came to be I appreciate everyone’s help.

As she looks around and smiles she notices Ivan pause from his work and rubs his gloved hand, Codi looks down to him.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Is there a problem Ivan?

Ivan shakes his head.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Is your Instructer causing you discomfort?

Ivan shakes his head again.

IVAN (RUSSIAN ACCENT, HONEST)

No, the Vitalizer module is working fine.

CODI (CONCERN)

Then what is it?

Ivan pauses for a moment.

IVAN (HONEST)

It is just that I can’t stand how the UCF is sucking our life force from us.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Huh?

Ivan opens his mouth to speak but Golda cuts him off.

GOLDA (RUSSIAN ACCENT, BLUNT)

If I may ma’am, I can save you a lot of ranting and raving if I explain it.

Codi looks to Golda, she nods to her.

GOLDA (EXPLAINING)

Since I’m the new here our Sensor Officer has been sharing all his outlandish conspiracy theories with me. This one is a crazy idea that Command Control switched from verbal command input to motion, the Instructers, so they can suck out energy from our bodies. Some people refer it as our life force.

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

It is not crazy it is the truth! I tell you, they are experimenting on us! One day instead of fueling our ships with Hydrogenoxide Floureen it will be with people!

Codi looks back to Ivan.

CODI (REASSURING)

Ivan, the Instructer has been extensively tested with no ill side effect what so ever. It is completely safe.

IVAN (DEFENSIVE)

Yeah, tested by Command Control! The ones trying to suck the life from us!

CODI (BLUNT)

Have you any other evidence than your gut feeling that Command Control is doing this? Any scientific tests?

Ivan pauses, then shakes his.

CODI (REASSURING)

Well as soon as you do please come and see me, until then we have a mission to complete.

Golda looks over to Ivan.

GOLDA (SMUG)

Yeah, keep your silly conspiracy theories to yourself.

Ivan points to Golda.

IVAN (IRATE)

Well don’t come crying to me Golda when they hook you up to an Ultra-Light thruster!

CODI (STERN)

Enough!

Golda sticks her tongue out at Ivan, he grunts. They go back to work. Codi sighs and then does the same. Nikolai looks to Codi, she is still busy. Then he looks to Golda.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

While we are waiting for permission to break orbit from Command Control I understand you came from the Felinu, Comm. Officer.

Golda looks to Nikolai.

GOLDA (CONFUSED)

Why yes sir, but is this a really good time to talk about it?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Let me be the judge of that!

Golda is taken aback, Codi’s ears perk up but she does not look up.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

It is an attempt by my Exec of sizing up whose side you are on, Comm. Officer.

LENA (SMUG)

A really pathetic attempt I may add.

Nikolai glares at Lena but it has no affect. Golda is even more confused.

GOLDA (CONFUSED)

The UCF of course.

Codi looks to Golda.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Vladimir has worked with us before but you are new here Comm Officer. You were transferred in by Command Control just before we departed. There are some humanoids that would love for our mission to fail. He fears you might be one of those.

Golda looks to Nikolai and he nods, she seems a bit hurt and Codi sees this.

CODI (BLUNT)

Of course Command Control are masters at deception. They wouldn’t wait till the last second to transfer a spy in, that would make it too obvious. Just by talking against Command Control would put my career in jeopardy. But I talk freely to you because I trust you.

Golda smiles.

GOLDA (PLEASED)

Thank you ma’am.

Codi nods to Golda and then looks to Nikolai, he looks back. Their eyes meet. She does not have to say a word, he looks to Golda.

NIKOLAI (APPOLOGETIC)

Please forgive me Comm. Officer.

Golda looks to him and smiles.

GOLDA (REASSURING)

Think nothing of it, sir. I too have not gotten use to their pro-Felinion stance myself.

Nikolai smiles.

GOLDA (EXPLAINING)

Yes, I served on the Felinu as a Comm Officer, she was an all Felinion UCF probe craft. I spent a KiloYerk on her. The admiral posted me personally hoping I would come back with some really juicy items he could use against the Felinions. That was before his change of heart on them. Instead I made a lot of good friends there, learned some Felice and customs. When I made my final report I left all of that out, instead I just praised them and stated I would love nothing more than to stay on the Felinu. That is why I was transferred here, with my Felinion experience he hoped I could aide this mission. So having a Felinion as a Commander is a privilege for me.

Codi smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Golda listens intensely to her headset and then smiles.

GOLDA (PLEASE)

Command Control has authorized our departure.

Everyone is pleased.

CODI (PLEASED)

Spread the word.

GOLDA (PLEASED)

Yes ma’am.

Golda looks down to her workstation and start speaking into her headset, everyone gets to work.

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

The Minsk turns and heads away fromm the fleet, as they continue away the ship picks up speed.

INT. MINSK IN SPACE – BRIDGE>

Everyone is busy issuing instructioons with their Instructers, Ivan looks over to Codi.

IVAN (BLUNT)

We’ve just past the outer markers, ma’am. We’re in free space.

CODI (BLUNT)

Then notify all stations, we’re goiing to Ultra-Light.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Golda mumbles into her headset and Codi looks to Vladimir.

CODI (BLUNT)

Set course for Felina.

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

Felina?

Codi sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

Tethys Major.

Vladimir nods.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Vladimir mumbles into his headset and everyyone goes back to work.

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

The ship continues away from Mars aand the fleet.

MINSK CONTROL (COMPUTERIZED VOICE)

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

The ship continues on.

INT. BRIDGE

Everyone is still working but now tthey are seatbelts fastened to their chairs, Golda looks to Codi.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

All sections report ready for acceleration, ma’am.

VLADIMIR (PLEASED)

Course laid in and plotted.

LENA (PROUD)

All Ultra-Light systems are primed and ready.

IVAN (BLUNT)

The pathway is cleared to jump point.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

All is set.

CODI (BLUNT)

Okay. Ultra-Light is go, give the signal.

Everyone springs into action and issues their final commands. Once they do they fasten seatbelts around their chairs.

EXT. MINSK IN OPEN SPACE

As the ship heads away. Two large engines on the back of the ship fire and the Minsk speeds faster and faster until it disappears from view.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

The room vibrates very wildly, everyone’s chairs jostles around but the seatbelts keep them in their seats. The crew keeps their eyes glued to their screens.

LENA (EXCITED)

Point three…

The room continues to shake.

LENA (EXCITED)

Point two…

The room shakes even more.

LENA (EXCITED)

Point one…

The room is shaking so much it seems like everything is going to fall apart. But then the vibrating subsides, everything is at peace.

VLADIMIR (PLEASED)

We've reached Ultra-Light.

LENA (PROUD)

All systems are stabilized.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

All departments have reported in, no issues.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Tracking pathway is clear.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Everything is perfect.

Codi looks around the room and smilles.

CODI (PLEASED)

Excellent.

Everyone goes back to work.<

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

The ship whizzes by at Ultra-Light speed.

INT. MINSK - MESS HALL

This is a small room with a few long tables each with a metal bench fastened to it. Against one wall are some vending machines. They have many lights, buttons and a clear plastic door on the bottom. Ivan, Golda, Vladimir, Lena and Ken are here at the tables eating. Nikolai is standing at one of the machines. He places his hand on a large illuminated panel on the front the machine, the panel turns black. He removes his hand and pushes several buttons on the machine. It hums and a plastic plate falls behind the plastic, several small cubes of different colors fall onto the plate. The machine beeps and the plastic door slides up, the machine beeps again. He reaches inside and pulls out the plate. The Machine beeps again and the door slides closed, the black panel lights up again. Nikolai walks over to the nearest table and sits next to Lena. The others have similar cubes in front of them and are munching away at them. Ivan examines every cube as if he expects something to happen to it before he eats it. Nikolai picks up a cube and eats it, he finds no satisfaction in his meal.

NIKOLAI (DISTANT)

Remember the good old DecaYerks? When you ate the flesh of animals? When we ate weeds for nutrition?

LENA (HONEST)

Do I ever, I miss those days.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Yeah, back then the government was only poisoning us with chemicals that control our minds. Now they also try to weaken our bodies so we can’t rise up against them.

Everyone ignores Ivan.

KEN (EXPLAINING)

Then again, back then we were at war. Killing millions just to say who was right. Communism or Democracy.

Vladimir smiles and looks to Ken.

VLADIMIR (SMUG)

And we kicked the deposits out of you!

Lena glares at Vladimir.

LENA (ANNOYED)

Vladimir!

Vladimir looks to Lena still smiling.

VLADIMIR (ANNOYED)

Well we did!

Ken looks over to Vladimir.

KEN (ANNOYED)

Because you cheated.

Vladimir looks to Ken.

VLADIMIR (ANNOYED)

How can you cheat in a war?

Nikolai glares over to them.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Both of you shut your yaps! There is no more Communism. There is no more Democracy. Just Command Control! After all the killing and destruction that led to the end of our planet haven’t we fought enough?

Ken and Vladimir shrug their shoulders and continue to eat.

GOLDA (CURIOUS)

So how did you end up on the Minsk Ken? Usually Command Control keeps us pretty segregated. I mean, you are an American on a Russian vessel. Usually only the Felinions get to cross lines.

Nikolai glares at Golda, she notices this.

GOLDA (DEFENSIVE)

Hey, I’m not trying to stir up anything. I’m just curious.

Ken looks over to Nikolai.

KEN (HONEST)

It’s okay.

Ivan looks over to Ken.

IVAN (CONFUSED)

So are you going to give us an honest answer?

KEN (BLUNT)

Sure. Command Control has a shortage of Medical Officers, those that they do have aren’t too keen on serving on a ship commanded by a Felinion. That is how this position became available. I happened to be unassigned and didn’t have a problem with Felinions so they sent me.

GOLDA (PLEASED)

Well I’m glad you are here.

IVAN (MUMBLING)

Of course you are, he’s a newbie just like you.

Golda looks to Ivan.

GOLDA (STERN)

What did you say?

Ivan and Golda start arguing, the rest of the gang except Lena and Nikolai join in. She turns to him to see if he is going to break up the argument but instead finds him deep in thought, staring out into space.

LENA (CONFUSED)

What are you thinking about Nikolai?

Nikolai just continues to stare at nothing. Lena nudges him and he snaps out of it, he looks at her.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What?

LENA (SMUG)

So what planet were you just on?

Nikolai pauses to think then smiles, he looks off into space again.

NIKOLAI (THINKING)

Oh, just about Earth. Remembering how it use to be before the Three-DecaYerk Demur. Before we fried it.

LENA (DOWN BEAT)

While I don’t have any fond memories of back then. I mean, with the war we trashed it just as bad. Digging for raw resources everywhere we could. The fighting. The pollution from the war industry. That is why I got into the UCF, hoping that I would either be killed and wouldn’t have to deal with the daily pain of watching your friends slowly die or be stationed on a planet that was more livable.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No argument there but I was talking about before the war. Before the re-rise of Communism. Back when I was a kid growing up. Back when the skies were as blue as the oceans. When the air smelled as fresh as the DecaYerk God made it. There were fields, trees, and rivers. A kid’s paradise.

Lena looks off into space and smiles.

LENA (PLEASED)

Yeah, I remember that. Generations back when the world was as polluted as prior to its destruction. After the fall of Communism, the people of Earth had nothing to fight. Nothing to curse with peace reigning. So they came together against a common foe. The ravages of the human race against our planet. Pollution, disease, hunger and our own stupidity. We all worked together and made the world a paradise. A place of one people and one spirit. A world of joy and happiness. Where there was no such thing as money or class. Everything and anything was possible. I remember those DecaYerks.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

But like all good things they had to come to an end. When greed and power over took the world. Corrupted it and destroyed it within. Revolution was the only way out. But it was also our demise. It nearly killed us all. If it hadn’t been for the Felinions we wouldn’t be here now.

Lena and Nikolai stare off into space reminiscing, smiling. After a few long moments, she turns to him.

LENA (INTERESTED)

You have been an optimist as long as I have known you. You have always tried to look on the good side of things. How in the Deposits did you end up in something as corrupt as the UCF?

Nikolai looks at Lena and smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I thought that would be obvious. There is only one reason, or should I say, person that is why I’m here.

LENA (CONFUSED)

Your father?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Heavens no. He didn’t think I could cut it.

LENA (CONFUSED)

The admiral?

Nikolai shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

No, Catherine. She talked me into joining.

LENA (SMUG)

How in the world did she do that? I know you two were in love but you are the most idealistic person I know. You are also the most stubborn. How did she get you to bite?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

It was actually easier than you think. She just told me it was a way to change the world. A way to make things right. Just like all the generations before me I actually believed I could make a difference. But as you can see, I haven’t.

LENA (SARCASTIC)

Hey, the skepticism is my department. We all make a difference in one way or another. If we didn’t we wouldn’t all be hear right now. I mean, even though Catherine was a spy she made a difference too.

Nikolai glares at her.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

That was just plain cold.

LENA (STERN)

I meant it as a good thing. She may have worked for the enemy but she brought the best out in you. She showed you were officer material, you proved her right. Because of her we are working together. You two were great for each other. I really miss her.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

And you think I don’t?

Lena reaches over and places her hand and Nikolai’s shoulder.

LENA (REASSURING)

Hey, it’s me Nik. That was not an attack but a compliment.

Nikolai stares at Lena through narrow eyes. After a few moments he backs off and smiles.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I know, sorry. It is that I miss her too. Yeah, you are right. She was great. We were great. I miss her a lot.

Nikolai and Lena stare off into space, they smile as the others continue to argue.

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

The ship speeds by at Ultra-Light.<

INT. MINSK – GYMNASIUM

This is a large room. One section hhas been set aside for working out, weights, treadmills, chin up bars, etc. While the other has been set up for sparing, a soft mat is on the floor. The only two in the room are Codi and Nikolai. They both wear workout clothes of shorts and a t-shirts, they don’t have any shoes on and there headsets are no where to be seen. She has some special leather coverings on her feet, they are strapped into place by several buckles and prevent her from using her claws. She has similar things on her hands but these force her hands into a fist as well, he is finishing buckling them into place.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Are these things really necessarilyy?

Codi looks to his hands as Nikolai works and nods.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

Though the first trial of the Kalattir, the Bez-Wen, is not design to be physical some Felinions get so caught up the resort to violence. I am no different. If I’m allowed to use my claws I’m afraid you might not make it to the next trial.

Nikolai looks up and laughs, but whhen he sees she is not kidding he settles down. He finishes up.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

That should do it.

Codi holds out her hands and tries to extend her claws, she grunts and groans but despite her best efforts she can’t do it. This pleases her. She then looks to Nikolai.

CODI (BLUNT)

You remember what is expected of yoou in this trial.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Yes, this is where we basically yelll and scream at each other. We expose all our dislikes about one another no matter how large or small they may be. You can’t be someone’s friend if you can’t be honest with them.

CODI (BLUNT)

Correct. But you can’t hold back, nnot one anything. You must lay in all on the line.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I have no problem with that. Unforttunately, at least for me, all this preparation has been for nothing. I have nothing against you. After all, if I did would I want to be your Kalatir?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

You’d be surprised. In a humanoid rrelationship you go sneaking around and keep your true feelings to yourself, you fear anything that might upset your friendship. But Felinions are just the opposite, we always speak our minds because we want to let each other know what sets us off so we can work through the problems.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

Which explains why Ban was so open with you in public.

Codi says nothing and he sighs.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Regardless I have no ill feelings ttowards you.

CODI (BLUNT)

Then I guess I’ll have to start.

Codi pauses to collect her thoughtss and Nikolai waits silently.

CODI (BLUNT)

Humanoids are foul creatures and I do mean that literally. You bathe yourselves no more than once a DecaYerk where we Felinions lick ourselves clean several times in that period. And with our sensitive noses you offend me.

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Now that I mention it, there is onee thing about you that does annoy me. Felinions constantly shed, no matter where they go. Because of this we have had to assigned addition cleaning duties to the maintenance techs. A waste of personnel.

Codi laughs.

CODI (LAUGHING)

Is that the best you can do? You arre really pathetic! You surely don’t deserve to be my Kalatir!

Nikolai looks to Codi and she smilees smugly back.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

The crew works for you, really hardd. There isn’t one of them that wouldn’t give their life for you. Yet during our down times, when we are off duty and our hanging out together you refuse to join us. You would rather spend time alone in your quarters than be seen with us. The crew has taken offense to this and to be quiet honest, I agree with them.

Codi considers his words but shows no remorse.

CODI (BLUNT)

That is another thing I loathe abouut you. You are always whining. Complaining you why you hate your father. How you wish Catherine was still alive. How Command Control has messed with your life. Whine! Whine! Whine! That is all you do instead of try and change things! No wonder why they took the Minsk from you!

Nikolai becomes upset, he points att Codi.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

The only reason why you became commmander is because Command Control has shifted to a Pro-Felinion stance. You aren’t here because you earned it but because you’re Felinion! The Minsk should be mine!

Codi becomes irritated as well.

CODI (ANNOYED)

I becoming commander is the best thhing to happen to this ship! The crew loves me! You can’t say the same!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Well there was one crewmember who wwould beg to differ! A comm. Officer, you busted her tail every chance you got! You even put her on report for saving my life!

CODI (ANNOYED)

I put her on report because she dissobeyed a direct order! I told her not to go into the Bay Room! I told her to let the Marines handle it! But she went in anyway!

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

But Ban was your friend! Your Kalattir! Will you betray me like you did her?

CODI (ANGRY)

You Sepcor!

Codi hisses at him and she punches him, Nikolai’s head is thrown back but little else. Seeing this she pulls her elbow back and swings it back at him, it catches him across the face. He groans and reels back. Before he can recover she strikes him in the face in the same manner with the other elbow, he moans with pain and stumbles back further. She gives a battle cry, leaps into the air and spins around. In the process she kicks him in the face. He spins around and falls to the mat face down, she lands on her feet and races to him. He lies there and groans with pain. She quickly jumps behind and straddles his body, she slips an arm around his neck and pulls. He is forced to arch his back, we see blood dripping from his nose. She uses her other arm to hook her wrist to apply more pressure, he begins to choke.

CODI (ANGRY)

It is your fault she died! Your girrlfriend killed her!

Nikolai struggles to get free but hhe can’t.

NIKOLAI (GASPING)

I didn’t know she was a spy!>

CODI (ANGRY)

It doesn’t matter! What does is thaat had you called in the Marines sooner Ban would still be alive!

NIKOLAI (GASPING)

I called them in as soon as you disstracted Catherine!

CODI (ANGRY)

Liar! You were hoping that she woulld kill me so you could have the Minsk!

Nikolai reaches back and tries to ggrab her mane but she bites him in the arm drawing blood, he moans with pain and pulls his hand away.

CODI (ANGRY)

You killed Ban so now I’m going to kill you!

The life quickly drains from Nikolaai, he is only able to say one more thing.

NIKOLAI (GASPING, WEAK)

You forget I lost something speciall that DecaYerk too.

The words are but a whisper but Coddi’s ears perk up, devastation fills her face.

CODI (SHOCKED)

You lost Catherine.

All the anger leaves Codi, she letss go and Nikolai gasps for air. She rolls off of him and sits on the mat, she stares at him with pity.

CODI (SHOCKED)

Because of me you had to order the death of your lover.

Nikolai continues to gasp but has ccaught enough breath to speak.

NIKOLAI (GASPING)

There isn’t a DeckYerk that goes byy when I don’t think of that. That I realize I will have to live with that fact for the rest of my life.

CODI (SHOCKED)

It must be terrible.

Nikolai catches his breath, rolls oonto his side and looks to her. He sees how devastated she is, he forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I get by.

Codi glares at him in horror for a few seconds and then snaps out of it, she looks to his bloody nose and wounded arm. She gets to her feet.

CODI (BLUNT)

We had better get you to the Medic Center.

Codi holds out her arm to him. Nikoolai hesitates and then grabs her wrist, she pulls him up to his feet. They end up face to face. They look to each other, they both want to say something but decide to say nothing. They turn and exit the room.

INT. MINSK - MEDIC CENTER EMERGENCYY ROOM

Nikolai is sitting on a table whilee Codi is nearby observing, the items that were covering her hands and feet are gone. Ken is here using his laser to mend Nikolai’s arm, the blood is gone from his nose.

KEN (TEASING)

We really need to stop meeting likee this Exec.

Nikolai forces a chuckle, Codi doess not react. Ken finishes and looks over his work.

KEN (PLEASED)

That should do it.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thanks.

Ken puts the laser away but then beecomes serious, he looks between the two.

KEN (BLUNT)

I’m going to need to know how this happened for my report.

NIKOLAI (AWKWARD)

I, er, fell down.

Ken glares at Nikolai.

KEN (ANNOYED)

Deposits! Those were bite marks on your arm! Felinion bite marks! The commander brings you in here with her hands and feet strapped into some freakish bondage apparatus! I want to know what is going on and I want to know it now!

CODI (BLUNT)

That is none of your concern, Lead Medic Tech.

Ken glares at Codi.

KEN (ANNOYED)

With all due respect commander, it is! The health and safety of this crew is my concern! I would be in my rights to call in the Marines for a full investigation!

Codi says nothing.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Please Ken, do as I ask. This is paart of my therapy. Write it up as just an accident. For me.

Ken looks to Nikolai and sees his ppleading eyes, Ken sighs.

KEN (FRUSTRATED)

I don’t like this, not one bit. Butt I’ll do as you ask.

Ken turns and gives a stern look att Codi, this has no affect on her. So he goes over to the Nurse and starts talking with her, Codi steps over to Nikolai.

CODI (CONFUSED)

He was easy to convince.

Nikolai looks over to Ken and the NNurse.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

We’ve been having little impromptu sessions, he has been helping me get over Catherine’s death. All off the record of course.

CODI (CONCERNED)

You confide in a newcomer over me? Your friend and future Kalatir?

Nikolai looks over to Codi.<

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

He has medical training in helping people deal with mental anguish and loss, no offense.

Codi nods and forces a smile.

CODI (REASSURING)

None taken.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Speaking about Kalatirs. Do we havee to go back to the trial or are we done?

Codi pauses to think.

CODI (HONEST)

I think we have done enough damage to our relationship, I consider it closed.

Nikolai pauses to think, then he loooks down to his feet.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

I won’t lie to you, I meant everythhing I said in there.

CODI (HONEST)

So did I.

Nikolai pauses again and look up too her.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Though now that they have been brouught out in the open they don’t seem as bad as I thought they were. In fact, I’m feeling pretty good right now.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Even though your commander nearly kkilled you?

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (TEASING)

It will not have been the first timme.

Codi is not amused and he sees thiss.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Look, I know Felinions rely a lot oon their instincts. Sometimes that can get rather messy but we did take precautions. Imagine how messed up I would be if we didn’t. I forgive you.

Codi studies him, she sniffs the aiir and then smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

I believe you and thank you.>

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Because you are creatures of habit I know everything you said in there was your true feelings. And to be quite honest, I agree with everything you said. But I think there is nothing in there we can’t work out and get by.

CODI (BLUNT)

I agree except for one thing, sometthing that has been eating at me for a long time.

Nikolai looks on concerned.<

CODI (BLUNT)

I know you didn’t want Ban to die, you would have done anything to save her. But she was my Kalatir, my bonded friend. She was the best of the best. I know you would try hard, really hard to take her place. But we have to face facts. You are totally different from her. You are human, she was Felinion. You could never become as good as her. Because of that I must consider the trial a failure and refuse your application to become my Kalitir.

Nikolai opens his mouth but she hollds up her hand.

CODI (STERN)

There is no room for discussion! Wee must both agree to continue, I cannot. Please accept this.

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I will on one condition. If you takke time to think this over, make sure you are making the right decision. Remember that this is affecting both of us.

Codi pauses to study Nikolai, she ssees both hurt and fear. Finally, she sighs.

CODI (BLUNT)

As you wish.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

Codi nods and then turns to the dooor.

CODI (BLUNT)

But for now we have a mission to prrepare for.

Codi turns and heads for the hatch,, Nikolai pauses for a few moments and then jumps to his feet and goes after her. She opens the hatch and they both leave.

EXT. MINSK IN SPACE (OPTICAL) - MEDD SHOT

The ship speeds through space at noormal speed. Far off in the distance is a large mass of dark clouds.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is at their station and moonitoring their screens. Vladimir looks up to Codi.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

We're coming up to Tethys Major, maa'am.

CODI (STERN)

Steady as she goes.

Vladimir nods and looks back down at his coonsole.

IVAN (BLUNT)

I'm picking up two larger ships. Thhey were orbiting the planet when we De-Lighted, but they're heading straight for us now.

CODI (STERN)

Give them a slow scan.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Ivan uses his Instructer to issue ssome commands.

EXT. FELINION ESCORTS IN SPACE (OPTTICAL) - MED SHOT

The ships head right at the Minsk, heading away from the clouds. The Escorts are similar to frigates but they have no fighter bay, more armament and are sleeker looking.

INT. MINSK - BRIDGE

Everyone is careful monitoring theiir stations.

IVAN (BLUNT)

Scan indicates the ships are frigatte class. Their identification signaler and markings make them Felinion. Their defenses are on-line and their offensive systems are on the way up. They have the maximum layer of Quziis.

Codi looks at Lena.

CODI (STERN)

Bring all defensive system off-linee and take the Quziis down to one layer.

LENA (CONCERNED)

But they are taking an aggressive sstance, we should do the same.

CODI (STERN)

The stance they are taking is Felinnion, ours is the proper response.

LENA (CONFUSED)

But-

NIKOLAI (INTERRUPTING, BLUNT)

There are two ships converging on uus, much bigger ships. They have true Felinion technology, not our haphazard mixture. Do you really think we would survive a confrontation?

Lena pauses to think and then shakes heer head, Codi smiles.

CODI (REASSURING)

We didn’t come here to start a war,, Engineering Officer.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

Yes ma’am.

Lena uses her Instructer to issue the ccommands. Codi looks down at Vladimir.

CODI (STERN)

Decelerate to one-eighth.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Vladimir issues the command, Golda looks upp to Codi.

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Ma’am, they're trying to contact uss.

Codi looks at Golda.

CODI (STERN)

Path the communication line to me.<

GOLDA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Golda looks back at her screen and uses her Instructer.

ERICTROKYZ (OVER HEADSET, COLDLY)

This is Erictrokyz Toteie, Vanguardd of the Felinian Response Fleet. I wish to speak to the Minsk.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

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

The face of a male Felinion appearss on one of Codi's screens. Erictrokyz Toteie has black fur with green spots and is wearing a head band with some strange hieroglyphic symbols on it. Erictrokyz stares coldly.

ERICTROKYZ (OVER HEADSET, COLDLY)

We're here to escort you to Feliniaa.

CODI (INTO HEADSET, PLEASED)

Thank you.

ERICTROKYZ (OVER HEADSET, COLDLY)

I have been instructed to inform yoou that upon arrival a shuttle will meet you. The shuttle will take the Ambassador and his aide down to Felinia. There the Ambassador will be the guest of the Felinion Domain. His every need will be attended to and he may stay as long as he likes. Is this arrangement satisfactory?

CODI (INTO HEADSET, PLEASED)

That is more than satisfactory. Youu are most kind.

ERICTROKYZ (OVER HEADSET, COLDLY)

Now follow us and we'll guide you iin. Erictrokyz Toteie, Vanguard of the Felinian Response Fleet signing out.

CODI (INTO HEADSET)

This is Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuuvxbiea of the...

The image of the Vanguard disappearrs from the screen. Codi looks down to Vladimir.

CODI (STERN)

The Felinion ships are going to esccort us to Felinia. Follow them.

VLADIMIR (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Vladmir goes to work on her stationn. Codi looks down to Nikolai.

CODI (STERN)

Did you get all of that, Exec?

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Yes ma'am, not the most pleasant off fellows.

CODI BLUNT)

Get use to it… I suggest you go andd get dressed in your dress uniform, instruct you aide as well.

Nikolai nods.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Nikolai stands up and looks to Codii.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

You’d better go and into your dresss uniform, aide.

Codi is taken aback.

CODI (SHOCKED)

Me?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Yes, you are the perfect choice.

CODI (ANNOYED)

I'm sorry, Exec. But I've got a shiip to run.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

But I need someone who knows Feliniions inside and out. Someone who can elbow me in the side when I'm about to accidentally insult them. That person is you.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Then take Golda, she has lived withh Felinions before..

Golda looks up to Codi.

GOLDA (HONEST)

Though I would love mingle with Fellinions once more my Tour on the Felinu was a military one, I know little of their government or the Court of Chaw. The Exec would be better off on his own. It would be better if you went.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I can’t but agree.

CODI (CONFUSED)

But-

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I hate to do this, commander but tiime is sort. You heard the UCF orders, I can pick anyone on want and they cannot refuse. I’ve picked you so you have no choice.

Codi thinks for a long moment, thenn sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

Very well, you win. I'll be your aiide.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you, ma'am.

Codi stands up.

CODI (STERN)

We'd better go and get ready, Exec..

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes ma'am.

Codi steps off of the Command Statiion. Nikolai walks over to her.

CODI (STERN)

Once we reach Felinia lock the shipp into orbit, Gator.

VLADIMIR (LOST IN THOUGHT)

Yes ma'am.

Vladimir goes back to work.

CODI (STERN)

You have the bridge Engineer Officeer. I want a full detachment of honor guards in the Bay Room to meet the shuttle.

Nikolai and Codi walk towards the hhatch. Lena stands up, another crew member takes her station.

LENA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am. Are there any final insttructions?

Codi stops and turns towards Lena, Nikolai also stops.

CODI (HONEST)

Not really. If you need us you knoww where we'll be. Otherwise, we'll contact you every five Yerks.

LENA (BLUNT)

Yes ma’am.

Codi turns and heads for the hatch,, Nikolai follows. Lena climbs up onto the Command Station. Everyone continues what they were doing.

EXT. MINSK NEAR FELINIA (OPTICAL) -- MED SHOT

The ship follows the two Felinion EEscorts towards the planet which is totally obscured by dark thick clouds. The Minsk and the Escorts lock into an orbit around the clouds. A shuttle clears the mist and heads towards the Minsk.

INT. MINSK - BAY ROOM

Nikolai and Codi are standing near a large hole in the floor. The hole in the center of the room is bathed in green light and open space can be seen through it. They are wearing dress uniforms without their headsets and a large electronic box is clipped to their belts, two large duffel bags lay on the floor near them. Codi is wearing boots. A detachment of Marines are in dress uniforms and stand in two perfect rows on each side of the Commander and Exec. The landing decks start to come up through the hole. A strange looking shuttle is on one of the decks and rises through the green light. On the side of it are hieroglyphic symbols. Everyone stares at the shuttle as it is raised up, the deck below it seals off the hole and completely blocks out the green glow. The hatch of the shuttle slowly folds downward. The Sergeant of the Marines, an ugly muscular woman, turns towards her troops.

SERGEANT (ORDERS)

Ten hutt!

The Marines snap to attention and sstare straight ahead. The hatch locks into place and forms a ramp for the shuttle. Nikolai and Codi walk up to the ramp and look up into the ship. Four large male Felinion guards rush out of the ship and down the ramp. The guards are wearing no uniforms, just gold head and wristbands with hieroglyphic symbols on them and a matching belt and holster with a laser pistol in it. They carry long ceremonial spears. Thick fur hangs between their legs and hides their reproductive organs. Two Guards stand at the bottom of the ramp and two stand on top. They all stand at attention and tap their spears in unison on the ramp. There is a long pause. Then a Male Felinion with brown fur and purple strips comes out of the shuttle and strides slowly down the ramp, this is Ryquikg Zulk. He is wearing a head and wristbands similar to the guards, a large solid gold amulet with hieroglyphic symbols and a golden cape. He stops between the guards at the bottom of the ramp and smiles.

RYQUIKG (PROUD)

I am Ryquikg Zulk, crown prince of the Felinion domain.

Codi bows to Ryquikg, Nikolai noticces this and also bows.

CODI (HUMBLE)

To have the Kootawa onboard is an hhonor.

NIKOLAI (FOLLOWING)

Yes, a great honor.

Codi and Nikolai stand straight agaain.

CODI (HUMBLE)

I am Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbbiea of the United Communistic Force Corvette Minsk.

Ryquikg frowns. He barks something in his native tongue at Codi, she is visibly shaken. She shakes her head quickly. He barks something more harsh in Felinion and indicates to the people in the room. She frantically replies in her native language. He smiles, bows his head slightly and calmly replies to her in Felinion. By the look on Nikolai's face it is obvious he is curious to what just transpired, but he is too afraid to ask. Codi gestures over to him.

CODI (HUMBLE)

And this is my Exec Officer and Uniited Communistic Force Ambassador to Felinia, Nikolai Solace.

Ryquikg turns and looks at Nikolai,, the Felinion bows his head.

RYQUIKG (PLEASED)

It is I who is now honored.<

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Thank you. Welcome aboard the Minskk your eminence.

Ryquikg looks up to Nikolai.>

RYQUIKG (PLEASED)

Please, call me Ryquikg.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Well... I would much rather prefer to call you Ry.

Codi flashes a cold look at Nikolaii, Ryquikg looks at him puzzled.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

To be quite honest, I don't think II could pronounce your real name.

There is a pause, then Ryquikg burssts out laughing.

RYQUIKG (LAUGHING)

Very well, Ry it is.

Ry's laughter subsides, he looks arround the room.

RY (PLEASED)

This is a most impressive ship by hhumanoid standards.

CODI (PLEASED)

Thank you. This gladdens our heart..

NIKOLAI (EAGER)

Would you like a tour of her?

RY (DISAPPOINTED)

I would love one... Unfortunately, my orders are to bring you immediately to Felinia.

NIKOLAI (DOWNBEAT)

Maybe another time.

RY (HONEST)

Yes. So, if you are ready Ni.

Ry steps to one side and gestures ttowards the shuttle.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUSLY)

Excuse me, by its pronounced Nikolaai.

Ry smiles.

RY (SLY)

I know.

Nikolai chuckles, he grabs his bag and starts up the ramp. Codi grabs her bag and follows, Ry blocks her way.

RY (ANNOYED)

I'm sorry Commander, but I'm only aallowed to take the Ambassador.

Nikolai stops and turns towards Ry..

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

It's okay, she's my aide.

Ry stares coldly into Codi's eyes.<

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Is there a problem with that?

Ry looks into Codi's eyes for a feww more seconds. Then, he steps aside.

RY (ANNOYED)

No. Of course not.

Codi walks up and joins Nikolai, thhey walk up the ramp. When they reach the guards at the top of the ramp, Ry barks out a command in Felinion. The guards at the top block Nikolai's and Codi's way with their spears, they quickly turn and look at Ry.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

What is the meaning of this?>

RY (THREATENING)

A warning. This applies two both off you. Before you board you must both swear that you will follow all of our customs and laws, no matter how strange and alien they may seem.

Nikolai stares at Ry and thinks.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Only if they do not involve harmingg me, my Aide or any living creature.

RY (ANNOYED)

Of course, we are not barbaric.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Either are we so I agree.

Ry looks at Codi.

CODI (HUMBLE)

I agree too.

Ry barks another command in Felinioon and the guards raise their spears, clearing the way. Ry smiles.

RY (EMBARRASSED)

I apologize for the dramatics, but we had to be sure you were serious about this. Please forgive me.

Ry bows his head for a moment and llooks up. Nikolai forces a smile and nods. He turns towards the shuttle and continues up the ramp, Codi follows. Once they disappear into the shuttle, Ry strides up the ramp and also disappears inside. Then the guards race back up the ramp and into the ship. The ramp instantly begins to raise up.

EXT MINSK – FELINIA (OPTICAL) – LONNG SHOT

The ship continues to orbit the cloouds with the two Felinion Escorts. The Felinion shuttle leaves the Minsk and heads for the clouds.

INT. FELINION SHUTTLE - PASSENGER CCOMPARTMENT

This is a lavishly decorated room tthe size of Nikolai's quarters. The walls and ceiling have decorative carvings from Felinia's history which are gold plated. The floor is carpeted with a thick decorative rug. Along the walls are large padded swivel chairs. Ry, Codi and Nikolai are seated in the chairs and have a seatbelt on. A pilot and co-pilot can be seen through an opening in the front of the room. The guards are seated and can be seen through an opening in the back of the ship. Ry looks at Nikolai.

RY (PLEASED)

You'll find Felinia's gravity is a third greater than your world, but it has twice as much oxygen.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

That's interesting.

The pilot shouts out a sentence in Felinion. Ry barks a few words back in the same language.

RY (HONEST)

But here comes the hard part.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

What do you mean?

RY (HONEST)

The clouds that surround our planett are very dense and make travel through them difficult.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Difficult? In what way?

The ship begins to shake wildly.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Never mind!

The ship continues to shake. Only NNikolai appears to be concerned. He grasps tightly onto the arm rests of his chair and quickly glances around the room. Ry studies him.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

How long is this going to last?

RY (REASSURING)

It shouldn't be much longer.>

The room shakes for a few more secoonds then it subsides.

RY (PLEASED)

There, we're out of it.

Nikolai lets go of his chair. Ry baarks a few commands up to the cockpit in Felinion. The co-pilot replies in a similar language. The upper part of the walls begin to slide down to reveal windows.

RY (PROUD)

But this makes it all worth it.

The cloud mass above can be seen, bbright light shines from them but not in a central location. Everyone looks out the windows.

EXT. FELINION SHUTTLE OVER FELINIA (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The ship gracefully descends towardds the surface of the planet. The clouds mass above radiates bright light in all directions.

INT. FELINION SHUTTLE - PASSENGER CCOMPARTMENT

Everyone continues to look out the windows. Nikolai stares with amazement.

NIKOLAI (AMAZED)

This is incredible.

RY (PROUD)

Isn't though?

NIKOLAI (AMAZED)

How do the clouds generate light?

RY (EMBARRASSED)

Our scientists have been studying tthat question since the beginning of time, they still have yet to come up with an answer.

NIKOLAI (AMAZED)

Incredible. Simply incredible.

Nikolai continues to stare out the window with total fascination.

EXT. FELINION SHUTTLE OVER FELINIA (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The ship continues its descent towaards the planet. Below, the surface is heavily wooded with a variety of trees. Some familiar looking, but all hundreds of feet tall. Below the cloud mass are huge white clouds similar to those on Earth.

INT. FELINION SHUTTLE - PASSENGER CCOMPARTMENT

Nikolai continues to stare out the windows, but now he has focused his attention on the surface of Felinia. He gawks at it.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

I can't believe it! Everything is sso green. So alive. So untouched.

RY (CONFUSED)

Isn't your planet like that?>

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

It use to be. A long, long, long tiime ago.

RY (CONFUSED)

What happened?

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTMENT)

Stupidity.

Ry looks at him oddly. Nikolai conttinues to admire Felinia.

EXT. FELINION SHUTTLE OVER FELINIA (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The ship flies a few thousand feet above the tree. The shuttle is headed for a large city made of stone, in the center of the city is a huge castle made of gold.

INT. FELINION SHUTTLE - PASSENGER CCOMPARTMENT

Everyone continues to look out the windows. Nikolai strains to see what is ahead of the ship.

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

What's that ahead of us? A city?

RY (PROUD)

Yes. It's called Royale. It is our capital. It contains Chaw Castle, that is where our king and queen rule. It is also our destination.

Nikolai quickly turns towards Ry.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

I'm going to meet a real live king and queen?

RY (PLEASED)

Of course, as all ambassadors must..

Nikolai smiles, turns and looks outt the window again.

NIKOLAI (AWED)

Incredible.

EXT. CHAW CASTLE COURTYARD (OPTICALL) - MED SHOT

This is a huge garden filled with eexotic planets. It is surround by the castle and huge battlements. There is a huge marble slab in the center of the yard and a matching marble walkway leading to an entrance to the castle. The castle itself is huge and made out of solid gold, jade and other precious materials. Two towers stretch into the sky and everything is lavishly decorated. The shuttle is about 50 feet in the air and slowly descending over one of the walls, moving towards the large marble slab. A female Felinion with Gray fur and pink stripes is dressed similarly to Ry stands near the slab on the walkway and anxiously looks up at the shuttle. This is Wactorii Tqwzxcvbyyaao. There are a row of guards on each side of the walkway, they are similar to the ones on the shuttle except they are a mixture of both sexes. The shuttle continues to descend and lands on the marble slab. The ship's engines shut down as the ramp lowers. The guards aboard the shuttle rush out and take their same exact positions on the ramp. Ry walks out of the ship and down the ramp. Nikolai and Codi follow, carrying their duffel bags. Ry leads them off the ramp and up to Wactorii who stares curiously at Nikolai. Ry gestures to her.

RY (PROUD)

I'd like to introduce the Crown Priincess of the Felinion domain…

Before he can finish Nikolai gasps and covers his eyes with his free hand.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Please forgive me.

Everyone looks to him confused, he just stands there covering his eyes.

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

What is wrong?

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Well, you are… Um… You know…>

WACTORII (ANNOYED)

I’m what? Ugly? Hideous? So grotesqque you can’t bare to look at me?

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Certainly not. It is just that you are, er, naked.

Wactorii looks herself over.>

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

What do you mean? I’m wearing my cuustomary clothes.

Codi explains something to her in FFelinion and she giggles.

WACTORII (LAUGHING)

Surely you jest?

Codi just shakes her head. Wactoriii goes over to Nikolai and gently grabs his hand.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

I assure you that I am decent.

Wactorii pulls his hand from his eyyes, but he looks down to his feet and does not look to her.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

I’m covered with thick heavy fur. YYou cannot even see my skin.

Nikolai hesitates and then looks upp, he sees this is true. Wactorii smiles at him.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

See.

Nikolai looks her over and smiles.<

WACTORII (PLEASED)

I did not realize humanoids find thhe body, especially of the opposite sex, so repulsive.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

It’s not that, it is just…

Nikolai looks to his feet in shame..

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

You must find me a fool your highneess.

Wactorii reaches up and touches hiss chin.

WACTORII (HONEST)

Actually, I find you the exact oppoosite.

Wactorii tilts his head up, she loooks into his eyes and smiles.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

You were more concerned with my feeeling than your own, otherwise you would not have looked away. I find that quiet charming.

Nikolai and Wactorii look at each oother and smile, they are lost in the moment. Ry seems quite upset and Codi is just embarrassed.

RY (STERN)

As I was saying…

Wactorii picks up on his tone and sshe lets go, she steps back next to the prince.

RY (BLUNT)

Introducing the Crown Princess of tthe Felinion domain, Wactorii Tqwzxcvbyyaao

Codi bows, Nikolai joins in.>

CODI (HUMBLE)

It is an honor.

NIKOLAI (WHISPERS)

At last, a name I can pronounce.

Ry frowns, Wactorii giggles.

RY (BLUNT)

Wactorii, this is Commander Codioziianquy Zqiuvxbiea of the United Communistic Corvette Minsk.

Ry gestures to Codi. Wactorii asks Ry a question in Felinion. He gives a quick response in his native language. She smiles at Codi.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

A pleasure.

Ry gestures towards Nikolai.>

RY (PLEASED)

And this is Exec Officer and Unitedd Communistic Force Ambassador to Felinia, Nikolai Solace.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Welcome to Felinia.

NIKOLAI (IMPRESSED)

Thank you.

Wactorii continues to stare at Nikoolai.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Is there something wrong?

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

Excuse me?

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

You keep staring at me. Is there soomething wrong?

WACTORII (EMBARRASSED)

I'm sorry, but you're nothing like I expected.

NIKOLAI (HURT)

I'm sorry if I offend you.

WACTORII (EMBARRASSED)

I meant I expected an old, bald malle who does nothing but complain. But you're quite handsome... For a human.

Nikolai smiles..

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you very much.

Ry is put off once again.

RY (ANNOYED)

If you'll follow me, we'll take youu into the castle.

Ry and Wactorii start down the walkkway, Nikolai and Codi follow. As the group walks between the rows of guards each glances coldly at Codi. She ignores this but Nikolai does not.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Other humans have come here?>

WACTORII (BLUNT)

Oh yes. Most of them were traders aand merchants. All boring and all were sent away.

RY (BLUNT)

Let’s hope you fair better.<

Codi is surprised and Nikolai is cooncerned. They all continue towards the castle.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - ROYAL HALL

This is a long marble corridor whicch is trimmed with gold and is lit by electronic lighting. There are several paintings on the walls of famous Felinions. At one end of the hall are a pair of large doors made of solid gold, two Felinions guard them. At the other end are two large metal doors. The metal doors are opened by the guards on the other side. Wactorii, Ry, Nikolai and Codi walk through the door. As the group walks down the hall the guards close the metal doors, Nikolai looks around impressed. As the group reaches the gold doors the guards bow and open them. The group walks through the open doors.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - WAITING ROOM

This is a large room which has carvvings of Felinions on the walls and is lit by electronic lighting. On one wall is a pair of large gold solid doors which are open, the Royal Hall can be seen through them. On the opposite wall is a large silk curtain which is closed, two guards stand in front of it. Ry, Wactorii, Codi and Nikolai walk through the open doors and stop in the center of the room. The guards in the hall close the doors. The guards by the curtain bow to Ry and Wactorii, then stand up. Ry turns to Codi and Nikolai.

RY (BLUNT)

Please leave your bags here.>

Codi places her duffel bag down, soo does Nikolai.

RY (PLEASANT)

Please wait here until you are intrroduced.

Nikolai and Codi nod. Wactorii and Ry turn and walk to the curtain, the guards step to one side. They lift the curtain, Wactorii and Ry pass under it. The guards lower the curtain and step back into their original positions. On the other side of the curtain the prince and princess can be heard speaking loudly in Felinion, Codi's and Nikolai's name is mentioned. There are several seconds of silence. Nikolai looks at Codi, confused.

NIKOLAI (WHISPERS, CONCERNED)

What are they saying?

CODI (ANNOYED)

Shhh. I can't hear.

Wactorii's and Ry's voices are hearrd again along with some others which are all speaking in Felinion. Codi's and Nikolai's names are mentioned several times. Then there is another stretch of silence.

PRESENTER (YELLS)

Presenting Exec Officer of the Unitted Communistic Force Corvette Minsk and United Communistic Ambassador, Nikolai Solace!

Nikolai steps towards the curtain bbut the guards do not move out of his way, he stops before them.

PRESENTER (YELLS)

Presenting Commander of the Minsk aand aide to Nikolai Solace, Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea!

Codi steps towards the guards and tthey step to one side, they lift the curtain up. Nikolai and Codi slip underneath it.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - THRONE ROOM

This is a huge dark and dank chambeer, several lit torches scattered around the room are the only source of light. A variety of complete taxidermy alien animals are fixed to the walls. At one end of the room is a huge marble slab, at the other end is a silk curtain. A carpet of alien animal skins and furs runs between the two. On the slab are six large thrones, these are made of blood stained animal bones and the arm rests are of animal skulls. Seated in them from left to right are Ry, Wactorii, Queen Ezzlaaaty Mezimallo and King Xjklu Uieoallph. The thrones on the end are empty. Ry and Wactorii are now wearing capes of pelts from various animals. Ezzlaaaty and Xjklu are dressed similar to Ry and Wactorii, but they have scepters made of large bones which have a Felinion head carved into each, small knives in their belts and are wearing a large animal skull as a crown instead of a head band. Ezzlaaaty has Green fur with white strips and Xjklu has orange fur with blue stripes. To one side is a large marble desk with a scribe seated at it. The scribe is a female Felinion who is dressed similarly to the guards but has no weapons and holds a strange looking gem. The desk has a stack of documents on it and several spare gems. The scribe is using the gem like a pen to fill out one of the documents. Next to the curtain stands the Presenter which is a male Felinion dressed like the scribe. There are two guards on both sides of the slab and a guard at each side of the curtain. Codi and Nikolai slip from underneath the curtain and walk up to the thrones on the carpet. Nikolai is disturbed by all the dead animal parts. Codi kneels down on one knee and bows her head. Nikolai notices this and does the same. There is a long pause of silence.

EZZLAAATY (BLUNT)

You may rise.

Codi gets up, then Nikolai does. Thhe King and Queen carefully look them over.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Welcome to the Court of Chaw. I am Xjklu Uieoallph, King of the Felinion Domain.

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

And I am Ezzlaaaty Mezimallo, Queenn of the Felinion Domain.

CODI (HUMBLE)

This is a most gracious honor.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

A very great honor indeed.

EZZLAAATY (DISAPPOINTED)

Unfortunately, you have come at a ttime when our High Priest and Priestess are away tending to their duties.

Ezzlaaaty indicates over to the emppty thrones.

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

A great shame.

Nikolai reaches with each hand intoo a pocket of his uniform. All the guards quickly place there paws on their pistols, ready to draw them. The Felinions seating on the thrones nervously look at Nikolai. He pulls out a gold bracelet in each hand. All the Felinions sigh with relief, the guards remove their paws from their weapons.

NIKOLAI (PROUD)

In order to create the true atmosphhere of our intentions, I present these to your eminence.

Nikolai holds the bracelets up to tthem, each is carved with hieroglyphic symbols.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

You may present them to the court.<

Nikolai nods then walks up to the sslab, he hands a bracelet to both the king and queen. They take them from him and examine them carefully. Nikolai steps backwards and rejoins Codi.

XJKLU (IMPRESSED)

They're beautiful.

EZZLAAATY (READING BRACELET)

May peace and prosperity be shared between Felinion and Humanoid races for all eternity.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Yes. Indeed.

The Queen looks at Nikolai.<

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

I couldn't have phrased it better mmyself.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Thank you.

The Kind and Queen slip the braceleets onto their wrists, they are perfect fit.

EZZLAAATY (DISAPPOINTED)

But alas, we haven't any gifts for you.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I'm sure your hospitality will be mmore than enough.

The King and Queen nod.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Speaking of which. Your government has informed us your mission here is to learn the ways and customs of our race. We thought the best way for that was to treat you as a Felinion rather than a humanoid.

EZZLAAATY (CAUTIOUS)

Would that be acceptable to you?

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I wouldn't have it any other way.

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

Of course, you're probably going too witness ways that are totally alien to you.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I'm not afraid to try something neww, your eminence. I insist you treat me as one of your subjects.

XJKLU (AMAZED)

It is true what we have heard aboutt you from the Felinions outside our domain, your determination is incredible.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

I have been instructed to bring a mmatter to your attention. Word of how you have taken all the freedom from the Prevaricates and have oppressed them have been scattered throughout our military and civilian population. Of course these are only rumors and there is probably no truth to them, never the less my government wishes to clear the matter up.

XJKLU (CONCERNED)

And how do you pose to do that?

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

I understand Tethys Minor is a clossed planet and is under your domain, this is where the Prevaricates are kept. No one may approach it.

XJKLU (CONFUSED)

Tethys Minor?

CODI (HUMBLE)

Vice Sirius your greatness.<

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

Yes. I request visitation rights too that planet.

EZZLAAATY (HORRIFIED)

Impossible!

XJKLU (HORRIFIED)

Out of the question!

WACTORII (SHOCKED)

Insane.

RY (SHOCKED)

Preposterous!

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

Then the rumors are true?

XJKLU (ANGRY)

Of course!

EZZLAAATY (DEFENSIVE)

But you must understand that the Viice Sirius aren't logic thinking beings! They're cold blooded murderers!

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

That may truly be the case, but I mmust see this for myself.

XJKLU (SHOCKED)

You don't believe us?

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

Of course I believe you. But I havee my orders.

EZZLAAATY (EXCITED)

They'd murder you as soon as you laanded!

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

You must understand that my people have fought for Centroids for freedom for all sorts of people. Whether they were in the same country or around the world. We hold freedom sacrid to us. This has allowed Felinions such as my aide here to be integrated into our system.

The court looks to Codi, they sneerr at her.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

Because of this denial of freedom tthe relations and peace between our races is in grave jeopardy.

XJKLU (SURPRISED)

You would go to war against us overr the Vice Sirius'?

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

I did not say that. Still, this is a strain between us.

EZZLAAATY (ANGRY)

If your mission is to meet with thee Vice Sirius then your mission has come to an end!

Nikolai looks at the King, he nods in agreement.

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

It pains me that I must depart likee this.

Nikolai bows.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

Though we cannot see eye to eye, I wish peace and prosperity upon the Court of Chaw and its people.

The King and Queen are shocked. Nikkolai straightens up.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

Farewell.

Nikolai turns for the curtain and wwalks towards it, Codi follows. Wactorii whispers into the Queen's ear. Nikolai and Codi stop before the curtain. The Queen whispers with the King. Nikolai grabs the curtain and lifts it up.

EZZLAAATY (DESPERATE)

Wait!

Nikolai releases the curtain and tuurns towards the slab.

EZZLAAATY (DESPERATE)

We sense you actions are noble, if they were not you would have not brought up the Vice Sirius issue so soon. Because of this we have thought of an alternative.

Nikolai is confused.

EZZLAAATY (EXPLAINING)

If you can't go to the Vice Sirius’’ then we will bring them to you. One named Garth The Trader.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Garth The Trader?

EZZLAAATY (BLUNT)

He handles all the trading between us and the Vice Sirius. Since we do not allow them to leave their world, they can only trade with us.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

You'll allow him to speak with me?<

XJKLU (BLUNT)

He CAN and WILL.

NIKOLAI (CAUTIOUS)

Then I will continue my mission herre. That is, if you'll allow me.

The King and Queen smile.

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

Of course.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Please.

Both the King and the Queen gesturees Nikolai to come forward. He smiles, then he and Codi walk back to the slab.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

When may I meet this Garth?<

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

Tonight. At a banquet that we are ppreparing for you.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Yes, but you must be tired from youur long journey.

The King turns to Ry.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Ryquikg, show our guests to their cchambers.

Ry nods to the King.

RY (PLEASED)

Of course.

WACTORII (ANNOYED)

Ryquikg always gets to show the gueests to their rooms.

RY (ANNOYED)

Oh, quit your whining.

WACTORII (ANNOYED)

How come I never get to show the guuests to their rooms?

RY (TEASING)

Because the King said I could.

XJKLU (ANGRY)

Silence! Both of you! Guests are prresent!

Ry and Wactorii nod to the King.

EZZLAAATY (DEFENSIVE)

She's right, though.

XJKLU (FRUSTRATED)

Oh, all right. Show them to their rrooms, Wactorii.

Ry frowns and Wactorii grins.

WACTORII (HAPPY)

Thank you.

Nikolai and Codi bow.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Until our next meeting, your eminennce.

Nikolai stands up, the King and queeen nod to them. Wactorii joins them.

WACTORII (HAPPY)

Follow me, please.

Wactorii walks towards the curtain,, Nikolai and Codi follow. Ry stares coldly at all three of them.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - NIKOLAI'S GUEST ROOM

This is a large room with wallpaperr made out of gold. In the corner is a large fluffy mattress. In another corner is a large pan full of sand and a sink. In the center of the room is a large wooden post which has deep claw marks in it. Also in the room and against a wall is a large golden chest, a matching dresser, a desk and chair all of which are beautifully carved and decorated. There are three large wooden doors, all on different walls. One of the doors opens and Wactorii walks in from a hall. Nikolai follows her, he is carrying his duffel bag.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

And this is your chamber.

Wactorii points at the mattress.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

That's your bed.

Wactorii points at the post.>

WACTORII (PLEASED)

And that's your scratching post.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

For what?

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Sharpening your claws, of course.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Of course.

Wactorii points at the sand.>

WACTORII (PLEASED)

And that's your deposit box.>

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Deposit box?

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

Yes. Humanoids DO relieve themselvees. Don't they?

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Oh, its THAT kind of deposit box. WWell, I think I can figure out the rest for myself.

WACTORII (EXCITED)

Wait! You haven't seen the best parrt!

Wactorii rushes over to a door and flings it open to reveal a large walk in closet. She rushes in and disappears. After a few seconds, she steps back out with a jumpsuit on a hanger. The jumpsuit is covered with fur, it looks like a Felinion from the neck down. Hanging on the hanger is a leather belt with pouches, decorative head and wristbands. She rushes up to him.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

What is that?

WACTORII (HURT)

Don't you like it?

NIKOLAI (CAREFULLY)

What's it for?

WACTORII (HURT)

It's for you to wear. It is designeed so you can get the feel of being a Felinion.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Where did you get that?

WACTORII (PROUD)

I made it myself.

NIKOLAI (UNEVEN)

Is it... Is it real?

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

Is it real?

Wactorii thinks for a moment, then bursts out laughing.

WACTORII (LAUGHING)

You think this is a skinned Felinioon.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Isn't it?

WACTORII (GIGGLING)

Don't worry, it's all synthetic.

Nikolai sighs with relief. Wactoriii stops laughing.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Your concern is dually noted. Do yoou like it?

NIKOLAI (FALSELY)

It's beautiful.

WACTORII (PROUD)

Thank you.

Wactorii hands the hanger to Nikolaai.

WACTORII (EXCITED)

Here, try it on!

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Maybe later.

WACTORII (EXCITED)

Come on, I want to see you in it!

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

I should really unpack.

WACTORII (PLEADING)

It's really comfortable. Please, trry it on.

NIKOLAI (DESPERATE)

Don't you have to get really for thhe banquet or something?

WACTORII (EXCITED)

Oh my, you're right! I forgot all aabout it!

Wactorii shoves the suit into Nikollai's hands and heads for the hall.

WACTORII (EXCITED)

Please forgive me but I have to go..

Wactorii reaches the exit, stops annd looks at Nikolai.

WACTORII (STERN)

But I expect to see you wearing it at the banquet.

Nikolai forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (FALSELY)

I wouldn't want to disappoint you.<

Wactorii smiles.

WACTORII (SLY)

I don't think you ever could.

Wactorii winks at Nikolai, giggles and slams the door closed behind her. Nikolai gives a sigh of relief. He pauses. He then walks over to the dresser, dumps the suit and his duffel bag onto it and walks over to the other door and knocks on it.

CODI (THROUGH DOOR)

Yes?

NIKOLAI (LOUDLY)

Can I talk to you?

CODI (THROUGH DOOR)

Sure, come on in.

Nikolai opens the door and walks inn.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - CODI'S GUEST ROOM

This room is exactly the same as Niikolai's. Codi is sitting on the mattress and wears only one boot, the other boot lies on the floor next to her. Nikolai is at the door which connects the room to his. He walks in and towards her. She removes her other boot, drops it onto the floor and begins to rub her foot.

CODI (RELIEVED)

Ah. That is much better.

Nikolai stops next to Codi, he lookks coldly down at her.

CODI (PLEASED)

What's up?

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

What in the Carbon Deposits were yoou doing back there?

CODI (CONFUSED)

Where?

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

In the Oxidizing throne room! You aare suppose to be my aide, I expect a little help! Especially when it comes to the Prevaricates!

CODI (BLUNT)

You pulled it off without my help.<

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

It would have been a whole lot easiier if you would have given me a little support.

Codi jumps to her feet, she gets inn his face.

CODI (ANNOYED)

I think you are forgetting who you are talking to.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

Before you throw rank in my face thhanks to Command Control’s order while you are down here you a mere aide!

Codi stares coldly at Nikolai, but he sighs and rubs his eyes.

NIKOLAI (TIRED)

I don’t need you as an enemy but ass my friend.

CODI (ANGRY)

Then what in the Sepcor do you wantt?

He looks at her.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I think the least I deserve is an eexplanation.

Codi thinks for a moment, then sighhs.

CODI (TIRED)

Yes, you do.

Codi plops back down on the mattresss.

CODI (BLUNT)

Before any Felinion enters militaryy service, whether it is domestic or foreign, they must take the Kos. A pledge to the court to up hold all the laws, ideas and philosophy of the Felinion Domain.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But in order to be in the UCF you hhad to swear to hold The Oath: Our laws, ideas and philosophy... You lied.

CODI (BLUNT)

Partially. Only if it involves the Felinions.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

So if a crisis involving both Felinnions and Humans came up, you'd betray us.

CODI (BLUNT)

No. I would relinquish my Command aand resign from the Force on the spot. So you see, if I agreed with any of your statements about the Vice Sirius' I would be subjected to the Prsdlik.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Prsdlik? Is that like executed?

CODI (FRIGHTEN)

Worse. Much worse.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Wow.

CODI (BLUNT)

Wow is right.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Execution. Isn't that kind of harshh?

CODI

(BLUNT)

Maybe. But you swore to the UCF. Whhat would happen if you went against that oath?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I would be marked as a traitor of tthe state and execu... I see your point.

Nikolai looks at his feet.

NIKOLAI (ASHAMED)

Look. I'm sorry I exploded like thaat.

CODI (REASSURING)

That's okay. It's been a long DecaYYerk. Why don't you go back to your room and get some rest. The DecaYerk isn’t over yet.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Yeah, that sounds good. I think we both could use some.

Codi nods. Nikolai turns towards thhe open door, hesitates and then turns back towards her.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

One more question. Ever since we'vee landed, everyone has been staring at you strangely. Can you explain this?

CODI

(HONEST)

Sure. I come from a society that enncourages Felinions to stay and prosper the race to its fullest. Those, like me, who venture out and help other races are seen as traitors by some.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED_

Is that what those two exchanges beetween Ry and Wactorii were?

Codi nods.

CODI (HONEST)

Luckily, the King and Queen do not sanction this conduct. Fortunately, it only usually results in verbal abuse.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

So that's why you didn't want to coome on this mission.

Codi nods again.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Why didn't you tell me?

CODI (SMUG)

Because you and Golda had a point, the best chance of this mission to succeed was if I came along.

Nikolai nods, turns and walks to thhe open door. He stops, turns and looks at Codi.

NIKOLAI (THANKFUL)

One more thing. Thanks for the ideaa about the bracelets. They really loved them.

CODI (PLEASED)

Just doing my job as your aide.

Nikolai smiles. Codi pauses to thinnk.

CODI (INTERESTED)

Now one for you. When you were abouut to storm out of the throne room. You sure were cool about it.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Cool nothing. It was a gamble all tthe way… Which reminds me. I need to go and empty my pants.

Codi chuckles, Nikolai turns and leeaves the room.

EXT. CHAW CASTLE COURTYARD

The marble slab is clear. A Felinioon shuttle flies over the wall and slowly descends onto the slab. Three detachments of heavily armed guards wait on the walkway near the slab. The ship folds down it's hatch, the guards rush up to the ramp with their weapons at the ready. Two groups of armed guards walk out of the ship and down the ramp, between them a Prevaricate is lead. The Prevaricate has the frame of a human but is covered with black fur of that of a dog, finger-like claws on his hands, toe-like claws on his feet, a long bushy tail, a head of a husky and red eyes. This is Garth The Trader. He only wears leather head and wrists bands, a leather belt with several pouches and a tattered cloth cape. His wrists are locked behind him by metal manacles, his feet are locked in leg irons and two thick chains are locked around his neck (each group of guards is holding one tightly) He is lead down the ramp and onto the walkway, the rest of the guards surround him. Garth snarls at them. They lead him towards the castle.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - CODI'S GUEST ROOM

Codi is sitting in the chair at thee desk. She is wearing ceremonial head and wristbands, a matching belt with pouches all of which are decorated with the strange hieroglyphics. On the desk is a very old looking bronze amulet. Codi is looking in the mirror on the wall as she combs the fur on her neck with a very large brush, the rest of her fur has already been combed perfectly. There is a knock at the door, she does not stop.

CODI (CURIOUS)

Yes?

NIKOLAI (THOUGH DOOR)

Is it all right to come in?<

Codi stops.

CODI (PLEASANT)

Sure.

Codi lays the brush down on the dreesser and turns towards the door, it opens. Nikolai walks in and closes the door behind him. Nikolai is wearing the Felinion jump suit, belt, head and wristbands. The suit is skin tight. Codi stares at him for a bit then bursts out laughing.

NIKOLAI (HURT)

Thanks a lot.

CODI (LAUGHING)

I'm sorry.

Codi forces herself to stop laughinng.

CODI (SNICKERING)

Where did you get that?

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Guess.

Codi giggles.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

That does it! I'm changing.<

Nikolai turns towards the door.

CODI (SNICKERING)

You can't, you'd insult them.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

Better that than have everyone lauggh at me.

CODI (GIGGLING)

They won't laugh.

Nikolai turns and gives her a sternn look.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

You did.

Codi regains control again.<

CODI (RESTRAINED)

I was just having a little fun. Youu really don't look that bad.

NIKOLAI

(ANNOYED)

That bad? I'm defiantly going to chhange.

CODI (COAXING)

Aw, come on.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

But I feel so stupid! I would ratheer face the entire fleet of the Legion ships than be dressed like this.

CODI (COAXING)

You knew this mission wasn't going to be easy.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Yeah, I know. But...

CODI

(COAXING)

We all have to do our share.>

Nikolai thinks for a moment.>

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

All right. You win.

Nikolai looks himself over.<

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

Actually, it feels quite comfortablle. With all this fur I thought I would be sweating, but I'm rather cool. But here is the really neat part.

Nikolai rotates 90 degrees, turns hhis head and looks down behind him. The tail of his suit begins to swish back and forth. Codi wants to laugh but she restraints herself.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

And I can move it in any direction I want.

The tail swings in all different waays.

CODI (RESTRAINED)

You see, it's not as bad as you madde it up to be.

Nikolai's tail stops. He turns and faces Codi again.

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

I guess you are right.

Nikolai eyes Codi over, it is apparrent he likes what he sees.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I just notice something. You're beaautiful.

CODI (BLUNT)

Thanks.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

No, you're honestly and truly beauttiful.

CODI (EMBARRASSED)

You shouldn't talk to your Commandeer like that.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Tonight we're not officers. Tonightt, we're Felinions. And I'd like to be your escort.

Codi feels uneasy and this is seen,, he walks over to her and places his hand on her shoulder. He looks deep into her eyes.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

If you won’t let me be your Kalatirr at least let me be your friend.

Codi looks at him and thinks, then she smiles.

CODI (PLEASED)

It would be an honor to be escortedd by you, Nikolai.

Nikolai smiles and then lets go.

NIKOLAI (CURIOUS)

You almost ready?

CODI (PLEASED)

Almost.

Codi picks up the amulet from the ddesk and places it around her neck. Nikolai stares at it with great interest.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

That looks very old, almost ancientt.

CODI (PROUD)

It is. It has been passed down fromm generation to generation.

NIKOLAI (IMPRESSED)

I’ve been think, it has been while since you have been back to Felina. Maybe if we get time tomorrow we could go visit your parents and-

CODI (HURT, INTERRUPTING)

I'm afraid that is not possible. Thhey're dead.

NIKOLAI (EMBARRASSED)

I'm sorry.

CODI (DISAPPOINTED)

It’s okay. You didn't kill them.

Codi stares into the mirror.>

CODI (ANNOYED)

The Vice Sirius did. During the revvolt.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Revolt?

CODI (SURPRISED)

You have never heard of the Revolt of Dissolution?

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Just rumors.

CODI (BLUNT)

I think you should know some historry of the Vice Sirius before you meet them tonight.

Nikolai sits down on the desk and llooks down at Codi, she continues to stare into the mirror.

CODI (COLD)

The Vice Sirius' started out as savvage, wild beasts. Having as much social purpose as your pet dogs. Then about 300 KiloYerks ago our scientists decided to meddle. Play God if you will. They began to introduce Felinion genes into Vice Sirius'. All in the name of science. The Vice Sirius brains were greatly increased, but they still lacked the intelligence we had. Unable to increase it any further chemically, the scientists started using concentrated training and conditioning. It took many KiloYerks, but the Vice Sirius finally had highly developed brains. Yet, they still weren't as intelligent as us. But what they lacked they made up in determination. Proving that they could be a valued part of society, the Vice Sirius were put to work on simple tasks and treated as equals. They work continently, many Felinions befriend them. As they learned, they slowly took on more and more important tasks. They began to climb the social and political ladder. Then, without warning, they lashed out and struck against us. They banned together and went from city to city, seeking out and murdering all Felinions. Whether they be young or old, male or female.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Why?

CODI (COLD)

As we would learn later, the Vice SSirius had been planning the revolt from the start. They knew the only way they would be smarter than Felinions was if we were all dead. So for 150 KiloYerks they plotted, planned and prepared. Behind close doors and in secret. Acting peaceful and bringing down our guard. They were so prepared that it took over 20 KiloYerks to subdue the revolt, but at a great cost. Nine-tenths of all Felinions and Vice Sirius were killed.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

Why did you just go and annihilate them all for what they did?

CODI (COLD)

Though they did horrible things to my people and almost drove us to extinction, we didn't want to make the same mistake our scientists did and play God. We exiled all Vice Sirius' to Tethys Minor. To make sure they stayed there, we placed heavily armed patrols and sensor detection systems around the planet. We watch their every move so they can not do what they did to us or anyone else.

NIKOLAI (HORRIFIED)

Awful. No wonder your people hate tthem so much.

Nikolai stares at Codi and she starres at the mirror. After several moments she turns and looks at him, she forces a smile.

CODI (HOPEFUL)

But that is the past. We must look for the future.

Codi stands up and so does Nikolai,, she grabs his hand.

CODI (SARCASTICALLY)

To the banquet, my lord?

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SARCASTICALLY)

Of course, my lady.

Nikolai and Codi turns towards the door, they walk towards it together. There is a loud knock at the door, they stop.

CODI (SURPRISED)

Who is it?

WACTORII (THOUGH DOOR)

Wactorii.

Codi and Nikolai look at each otherr, they lose their smiles. They let go of each others hands. Codi looks at the door.

CODI (DISAPPOINTED)

Come on in.

The door opens and Wactorii walks iin, she looks at Nikolai.

WACTORII (RELIEVED)

There you are.

CODI (FORCED)

What a pleasant surprise.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What are you doing here?

WACTORII (EXCITED)

I've come to take you to the banqueet. I'm your escort.

NIKOLAI (FORCED)

How considerate. But what about thee Crown Prince. Won't he need an escort?

WACTORII (SMUG)

Ah, he can find his own.

Wactorii walks up to Nikolai and grrabs his hand.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Shall we go?

Nikolai pauses.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Sure.

Nikolai turns towards Codi.<

NIKOLAI (HOPEFUL)

Coming?

CODI (BLUNT)

No, ambassador. I'm not quite readyy yet. You go on.

NIKOLAI (DESPERATE)

I'm sure we could wait.

WACTORII (EXCITED)

Unfortunately we can't, you are thee guest of honor. It would be rude if you showed up late.

NIKOLAI (DESPERATE)

Do you know the way, aide?

CODI (SMUG)

Sure. If not, I'll just ask.>

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

Glad to hear it.

Wactorii tugs on Nikolai's hand, hee turns and looks at her.

WACTORII (EXCITED)

Come on, let's go.

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

Sure.

Nikolai and Wactorii head for the ddoor. Wactorii giggles and Codi snickers.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - BANQUET HALL

This is a huge room decorated in a similar fashion as the Throne Room. In the center is a long table with tall chairs on one side of it. From left to right is an empty chair, Ry, the King, the Queen and two empty chairs. In the corner is a desk similar to the one in the throne room, the Scribe is seated at it. Against the wall and across the table is a small table with a chair. All the chairs and tables are made of various dead animal parts. There is a solid gold door at each end of the room. A guard is at each side of one of the doors. The guarded doors open, Wactorii leads Nikolai into the room. She leads him around the table and leads him to the two empty chairs, he sits in one and she sits in the other. Ry glares at her, the queen smiles to the couple.

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

Welcome back, Ambassador.

Nikolai looks at the Queen and smilles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you, eminence.

XJKLU (CONFUSED)

Where is your aide?

Nikolai looks at the King.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

She will be along any moment.

Ry looks to the empty chair next too him and then looks to Wactorii, he gives her a cold stare.

RY (BLUNT)

I believe you are in the wrong chaiir, Wactorii.

Wactorii smiles and looks to Ry.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

No, my place is next to our guest.<

RY (ANNOYED)

Your place is next to your prince!<

WACTORII (STERN)

It would be rude if I left our guesss unattended, after all I am his escort.

RY (ANNOYED)

And it would be an insult to me if you sat with anyone else.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Please, there is no need to fight oover me.

Wactorii grabs Nikolai’s arm and huugs it, he looks to her and she smiles.

WACTORII (PLAYFUL)

You are worth fighting for.<

Wactorii giggles and Nikolai becomees even more uneasy, Ry looks like he is about to explode. The king sees this.

XJKLU (STERN)

That will be enough Ryquikg! The prrincess is correct, it is proper protocol.

Ry exchanges a cold glance with thee king, he does not back down so Ry does. The queen flashes a warning glance at Wactorii, she catches this and lets go of Nikolai. The tension is really high. The door opens and Codi rushes into the room, everyone turns towards her. The guards close the door.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Ah, here she is.

Codi rushes up to the King and Queeen.

CODI (HUMBLE)

Please forgive my tartness.<

The King and Queen nod. Codi bows, then she looks at the chairs in the room. She looks at the empty one next to Ry. She looks over to Nikolai, then over to Wactorii and then back to Nikolai. She flashes a quick smile at him, he tries to ignore it. Codi walks over to the empty chair and sits in it. The Queen looks over to the guards.

EZZLAAATY (STERN)

You may show him in.

The guards nod, open the door and eexit. After a few moments, four guards escort Garth into the room. He is no longer in chains. They lead him to the small table and he takes a seat, facing the others. The guards stand at attention, two on each side of the table. The door guards return, close the door and return to their posts. The Felinions look uneasy at Garth, Nikolai is fascinated by him.

NIKOLAI (WHISPERS, IMPRESSED)

So that is a Prevaricate.

WACTORII (WHISPERS, ANNOYED)

Vile looking aren’t they.

Nikolai just smiles at him.<

XJKLU (FORCED)

Welcome Garth The Trader.

Garth ignores the King and looks arround the room, as if plotting an escape.

EZZLAAATY (FORCED)

We're are very glad you could make it.

Garth glances at the guards around him.

GARTH (ANNOYED)

Like I really had a choice.<

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

I'd like to introduce Exec Officer from the United Communistic Force Corvette Minsk and UCF Ambassador, Nikolai Solace.

The Queen points Nikolai out, Garthh stares at him.

GARTH (SURPRISED)

A humanoid? Here? I did not realizee that someone representing everything we honor was mixed in with this rabble.

EZZLAAATY (BLUNT)

And this is Commander Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea of the Minsk.

The queen points at Codi, Garth loooks at her and snarls. Codi shows no love towards them either.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

She is also my attaché.

Garth bows his head.

GARTH (EMBARRASSED)

Please forgive my insolence.>

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Certainly.

GARTH (QUICKLY)

You are most kind.

Garth looks up to Nikolai and smilees. The king claps his paws and the unguarded door bursts open, seven Felinion servants with huge platters with silver covers rush into the room. They place the platters on the table before everyone, they remove the covers. On the platters are two heeded rat-like animals which have been cooked and stuffed with orange paste. The Felinions smile and lick the lips, Garth shakes his head with disgust, Nikolai doesn't know what to make of it. The servants carry the covers back into the kitchen.

NIKOLAI (UNSURE)

Excuse me, but what... What is thiss?

WACTORII (PROUD)

Stuffed Rodentia. It is very deliciious. But don't worry, the bones have been removed from yours.

Nikolai continues to look at the pllatter before him with mixed feelings. The King notices this.

XJKLU (HURT)

Don't you like it?

CODI (SARCASTICALLY)

Of course he likes it. As he statedd before, he's not afraid to try something new.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Yes... It looks quite delicious.

Codi smiles playfully.

GARTH (ANGRY)

I will not eat this Felinion deposiits!

Garth picks up his plate and preparres to throw is across the room, but he catches a glimpse of the Queen looking sternly at him. He pauses.

EZZLAAATY (STERN)

Garth, remember you are a guest of this court. Do not abuse the privilege.

Garth stares coldly at the Queen, sshe continues to give him a stern glare. He thinks for a moment. Then, he places the platter back down on his table.

GARTH (DEFIANT)

Very well. But I still won't eat itt.

Garth looks at Nikolai.

GARTH (WARNING)

Either should you.

Nikolai looks around the room, all the Felinions are staring anxiously at him. He looks over to Codi and she nods to him. He gulps, picks up one of the Rodentia and opens his mouth.

GARTH (EXCITED)

Don't! It's Felinion poison!>

Nikolai closes his eyes and takes aa small bite, disgust is reflected in his face.

GARTH (WARNING)

I told you.

Nikolai reluctantly chews his food..

NIKOLAI (DISGUSTED)

No... It is quite... Quite deliciouus.

Garth shakes his head in disgust. EEveryone else digs in and starts eating, the sound of breaking bones fills the room. This only adds to Nikolai's disgust. Garth looks Nikolai over.

GARTH (CONFUSED)

Excuse me, Ambassador. But who are you suppose to be dressed up as?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

A Felinion.

Nikolai takes another small bite off his Rodentia and squints his eyes in disgust. He chews his food.

GARTH (DISAPPOINTED)

So they've already gotten to you. WWhat a shame.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

No one has gotten to me. It just heelps me to observe the Felinions.

GARTH (SARCASTICALLY)

They're pretty dismal. Aren't they??

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I was sent here to observe your racce too.

GARTH (ANNOYED)

Oh. What did they tell you about uss?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

So far just the Revolt of Dissolutiion.

GARTH (ANNOYED)

It figured as much. I suppose they told you THEIR version. They probably didn't tell you how we were treated before the revolt. Like animals! Assigned miserable and demeaning tasks. Manual labor. Despite that, we worked hard. Real hard! And never complained. But did we get any pay or recognition for our efforts? No! We were treated like slaves!

RY (ANGRY)

Liar! We treated you well!

GARTH (ANGRY)

Yes! As well as you thought we shouuld have been treated! Like oxidation!

Ry opens his mouth to speak.>

NIKOLAI (QUICKLY)

And rather than trying to work out your differences, you lashed out and attacked. You almost drove each other into extinction.

Garth thinks for a moment, the otheer Felinions are impressed.

GARTH (ANNOYED)

True. Forgive me Ambassador, but diidn't the same happen on your planet?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

GARTH (BLUNT)

War. Britain and the United States.. The Czars and the people of Russia. China and Australia. Venus an-

Nikolai notices everyone has stoppeed eating and is listening carefully to Garth, shocked.

NIKOLAI (INTERRUPTING)

Yes. It is true. But just like yourr people's action it was just as big of a mistake. It was not the answer. Only through talk and negotiation have we established peace.

The Felinions are at ease again, thhey continue eating.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

Tell me Garth, where did you learn of human history? We have had no contact with your people.

Garth smiles.

GARTH (SMUG)

We have our ways.

Garth points at Codi.

GARTH (ANNOYED)

Just like the Felinions. But unlikee us, they use it to rot and infect your race from within. Soon they will take over your race. Force your people to do all the work. In essence, you’ll be our replacements.

Nikolai stares at Garth, interestedd.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

Please, tell me more.

Garth looks around at all the Felinnions, they have stopped eating again.

GARTH (DEFENSIVE)

No. I can't. Not here. I have alreaady told you too much. I've already earned myself a beating... Or worse.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

They beat you?

Garth hesitates for a moment then nnods slightly. Nikolai turns towards the King and Queen.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

You beat them?

XJKLU (ANGRY)

Lies!

EZZLAAATY (ANNOYED)

Of course not.

GARTH (ANNOYED)

Sure. You wouldn't want to offend yyour guest.

Nikolai pauses to study the situatiion, then he looks to Garth.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

If you were beaten then let me see your wounds, show me your scars.

Garth pauses for a moment.

GARTH (BLUNT)

I have been away for a while, on myy planet. They have all healed.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

For someone who claims a lot of thiings you sure don’t have a lot of proof.

The Felinions are impressed, Garth balks.

GARTH (ANNOYED)

The Felinions are very smart, they would never present you with someone that has been marked.

XJKLU (ANGRY)

I've had enough of your treachery, Garth! You will either speak the truth of be removed from this Court!

Garth stands up, the guards face hiim. Nikolai turns towards Garth.

GARTH (ANGRY)

And I've had enough of your lies! MMy people have suffered long enough! It is time that the truth came out!

RY (SARCASTICALLY)

What of your beating?

GARTH (ANGRY)

There are some things that must be said! At any cost!

RY (ANGRY)

Sit down you overgrown wind maker!<

GARTH (ANGRY)

I will not be ignored any longer!

Garth leaps towards Nikolai.>

GARTH (DESPERATE)

Please Ambassador, you have to listten to me!

Two guards grab Garth's arms, anothher warps his arms around him neck and the last wraps his arms around his body. The other guards draw their weapons. Garth twists and squirms but can't break their grip. The King points at Garth.

XJKLU (ANGRY)

Take that scum back to the shuttle!!

Garth continues to struggle but thee guards grip is overwhelming. Nikolai turns to the King.

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

No, please. Let him stay.

Nikolai is ignored. The guards dragg Garth towards the door, still struggling.

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

I want to hear what he has to say.<

Nikolai is still ignored.

GARTH (DESPERATE)

If you want to know the real truth,, Ambassador. You know where my planet is!

The guards drag the struggling Gartth from the room. When the door is closed, the remaining guards return their weapons back into their holsters. The King looks at Nikolai, he is very distraught.

XJKLU (EMBARRASSED)

I'm sorry you had to see that.

NIKOLAI (WHISPERS)

All I wanted was to hear what he haad to say.

EZZLAAATY (EMBARRASSED)

But at least now you know now the VVice Sirius REALLY are.

Nikolai looks at the King and Queenn, shocked.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

To be quite honest, I'm not really sure what I think anymore.

Everyone looks at Nikolai, surpriseed. He turns and looks at the guarded door and thinks for a moment, then turns back to the King and Queen. All he sees is concern so he forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

But best not to waste a fine meal llike this.

Nikolai takes another small but dissgusting bite from his food. The others take a bit longer to regain their composure but then dig in as well, the Queen smiles.

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

Now that we can enjoy ourselves we can get back to why you are here. Please, ask anything you wish to know about us.

Nikolai thinks for a moment.>

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Well, I guess a good place to startt would be how you govern your people.

XJKLU (PLEASED)

As you know, Felinions are ruled byy I and Ezzlaaaty. But it is not a complete monarchy. The King and Queen have Bewinor, or the final say in everything but we must both agree before anything can become law. So to speak.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

And how do matters that need your aattention are brought before you?

EZZLAAATY (PLEASED)

There is an executive committee reppresenting all the people of Felinia. The people go to them if they want something done. It doesn't matter what social class the presenter is, the only rule is that it must be presented in person. The committee then translates the request into so sort of written form, which the presenter must give their okay on, so we may evaluate it.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

And the princess and prince of the Court. What is their role?

XJKLU (PLEASED)

Mostly they are OUR ambassadors.

RY (BLUNT)

But we also give advice on matters..

WACTORII (PROUD)

And watch and learn. After all, sommeday we will be taking their place.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

And who conducts a marriage of a Kiing and Queen or Prince and Princess?

The four royal Felinions look oddlyy at Nikolai.

EZZLAAATY (CONFUSED)

Marriage? What is a marriage?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

You know. Husband and wife. Wedlockk. Matrimony. A close intimate union.

The Royals continue to stare at Nikkolai, confused.

XJKLU (CONFUSED)

I'm sorry, but we don't follow you..

Codi quickly bursts out a statementt in Felinion. All the Felinions (including the guards) turn towards Codi, think for a moment and bust out laughing. The Queen turns towards Nikolai.

EZZLAAATY (LAUGHING)

You actually do such a thing?

XJKLU (EMBARRASSED)

Please, forgive us. But this conceppt is so alien to us.

NIKOLAI (HURT)

That's okay.

The laughing subsides. Wactorii loooks at Nikolai, she pauses before she continues.

WACTORII (CURIOUS)

Are you marriaged?

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

No, not yet.

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

If I am ask. Why not?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Haven't found the right girl yet.

WACTORII (PROBING)

Maybe you haven't been looking hardd enough.

Wactorii giggles, Nikolai is uneasyy and Ry frowns.

EXT. CASTLE CHAW COURTYARD

The guards drag Garth towards the sshuttle that is parked on the slab. Garth does not resist.

INT. CASTLE CHAW - BANQUET HALL

Everyone is finishing up their mainn course which consists of huge pink rabbits with three legs. Half of Nikolai's still remains.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

So do all Felinions speak the same language?

EZZLAAATY (BLUNT)

No. Most of us speak Felice. But itt is interpreted slightly different on different parts of the planet. But it is close enough that we can understand each other.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

Then how is it you speak my languagge?

XJKLU (BLUNT)

One of the basic duties of the Courrt is to serve as ambassadors. Since the Humanoids are the strongest and most influential race known, we figured it was vital that we learned to communicate with you.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

Then how is it that the Prevaricatees speak my language?

The Queen looks at Nikolai, puzzledd.

EZZLAAATY (PUZZLED)

That is a very good question. One tthat I can not answer.

The Queen looks at the King.>

XJKLU (PUZZLED)

Nor I. But which will be looked intto.

The King looks at the Scribe and noods, she picks up her gem and quickly jots something down. Nikolai puts his main course on the plate, leans back and sighs.

NIKOLAI (FALSELY)

I'm stuffed.

XJKLU (SURPRISED)

But you haven't finished your Rabottte plus we have Innards for desert.

NIKOLAI (FALSELY)

No, really thank you. But I couldn''t eat another thing.

Codi smiles as a thought comes to mmind.

CODI (SLY)

Perhaps the Ambassador will change his mind if he sees desert.

The King turns towards the Queen annd nods, she claps her paws. The kitchen door swings open and 12 servants rush in. Six remove the dishes from the table and the other six place large glass cups in front of everyone. The cups are full of animal stomachs, intestines and other internal organs. The servants quickly rush back into the kitchen. Nikolai stares at his glass and feels ill.

XJKLU (COAXING)

Are you sure you won't have any?

NIKOLAI (DISGUSTED)

I would love to have some... If I wwasn't so stuffed.

EZZLAAATY (SMUG)

Suit yourself.

Everyone digs in, Nikolai turns towwards the King.

NIKOLAI (INTERESTED)

Getting back to your religion. You explained that Kazan is your God. He created all life and the universe. Does that mean that our God does not exist to you?

XJKLU (PROUD)

On the contrary, your God was creatted by Kazan. Kazan has Gods just like your God has angels.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

With all due respect I refuse to acccept this.

The king and Queen look very cross at Nikolai but he does not back down so they do.

EZZLAAATY (BLUNT)

That is of course your right.

The room goes silent as everyone buut Nikolai and Wactorii eat, she is busy gaining her courage.

WACTORII (NERVOUSLY)

Does your race have Incite Fervor?<

Everyone in the room stops what theey are doing, Nikolai turns to Wactorii.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Pardon me?

RY (ANGRY)

How did we get on that?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I don't even know what we are on.

WACTORII (NERVOUSLY)

To repopulate our planet we passed the law of Telsathum making any Felinion having Incite Fervor, copulation, at least once every CentaYerk.

NIKOLAI (SURPRISED)

Oh.

WACTORII (NERVOUSLY)

Anyone may choose his partner and tthey must comply, it is the law.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

How do you enforce such a laws?

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Once a couple claims to have compleeted the law each is tested. If they pass they are recorded as have done their part for Felinia. If they fail or anyone who has not reported to an I.F. Center in over a CentaYerk, partners are selected for them and they are forced to compile with the law.

Nikolai is obviously horrified fromm all this but he fights to remain calm.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

And if a female tests positive thenn she is admitted into the center and cared for. Any position or job she held is temporarily suspended. Once birth takes place the mother is released and her rank or occupation is restored. The kitten is sent off to a Development Facility where it is educated and brought up with other new borns. It is released when it reaches adulthood.

NIKOLAI (SHOCKED)

Are the parents allowed to visit?

WACTORII (PLEASED)

No. We feel that the parents shouldd be free to go about the business serving Felinia. As a bonus the child will developed unhindered. To support this process all parties evolved are never told where the other is thus none ever sees the other again. We even select the child's name.

Nikolai stares at Wactorii, shockedd. She stares back as if expecting a certain response. He shakes himself out of it and notices this, he forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Well, to answer your questions. Yess we do. But no, we don't have any laws like that. Ours are usually between two that are married.

Wactorii is devastated, Ry is pleassed.

WACTORII (DISAPPOINTED)

Oh, I see.

CODI (SMUG)

But not always, I have heard of somme humanoids that have had Incite Fervor that were not married or attached in any other manor.

Nikolai glares at Codi and she justt smiles back. Wactorii is pleased by Ry is not.

WACTORII (INTERESTED)

Oh, then if I wanted to I could chooose you as my partner for Incite Fervor.

Everyone stops eating.

RY (EXCITED)

What! You can't do that!

WACTORII (DETERMINED)

I could if I choose so!

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I’m sorry but my God frowns on suchh an exchange, I would only do it with my wife.

Wactorii is hurt again and Ry is plleased, Codi has mixed feelings.

WACTORII (DISAPPOINTED)

What a shame, it could have explainned al lot more about us.

RY (BLUNT)

I'll explain them to him if you wannt.

WACTORII (DISAPPOINTED)

He should experience them first paww, an explanation just wouldn’t do. Perhaps you would like to watch.

NIKOLAI (DISGUSTED)

What I would like is to change the subject.

Ry smiles.

RY (SMUG)

A wise choice.

Everyone looks to one another, the situation is uncomfortable.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Well, there has been one question II have been dying to ask. Why have you resisted in helping us with our fight against the Democratic Legion?

XJKLU (EXPLAINING)

Felinions tend to mind to their ownn affairs, especially when politics is involved.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Politics? They are at war with us.<

XJKLU (HONEST)

To try and force you to change yourr government to theirs. That is politics though on a grander scale.

EZZLAAATY (EXPLAINING)

We wouldn’t expect you to fight ourr wars so why do you expect us to do differently?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

If you asked us we would help.

EZZLAAATY (DISAPPOINTED)

Then I guess that is where our two races differ.

There is another awkward pause of ssilence. Codi sees that Nikolai is floundering so she jumps in.

CODI (HONEST)

It has been a long DecaYerk, if thee Ambassador is only half as tired as I he must be exhausted.

Nikolai is confused and Wactorii’s ears perk up.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Yes, you must be tired. Let me showw you to your chambers.

Wactorii gets to her feet, Nikolai hesitates and does the same. She takes him by the arm but he does not move, instead he looks to Codi.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

This time will you accompany us?

Codi sees the desperate look in hiss eye and nods.

CODI (BLUNT)

But of course.

Codi starts to get up but Wactorii glares at her.

WACTORII (STERN)

But not until you finish your deserrt my dear. It would be rude otherwise.

Codi stops and sees the ice in her eyes, she sighs and sits back down.

CODI (BLUNT)

Of course.

Codi plays with her food and Wactorrii smiles.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

When you are finished I’m sure the prince will be more than glad to walk you back to your chamber.

Ry just grunts and sulks, the otherrs say nothing.

XJKLU (PLEASANT)

Until tomorrow, Ambassador.<

EZZLAAATY (BLUNT)

Pleasant dreams.

Nikolai is too distraught to say annything so he just nods. Nikolai allows Wactorii to lead him towards the exit, the couple leaves and Ry pouts. The king and Queen smile menacingly, Codi sees this and is full of concern.

EXT. CASTE CHAW AND CITY (OPTICAL) - LONG SHOT

The city surrounds the castle. The Felinion shuttle flies over the walls and speeds upward, towards the cloud mass. The light being generated by them is fading.

EXT. BATTLEMENT OF CASTLE CHAW

This is one of the tall walls surroounding the castle. Guards are posted along here, instead of spears they have laser rifles. The sky looks like late dusk, there is enough light to see but just barely. The clouds in the sky are now brilliant colors that swirl and fade in and out, it is breathtaking. Also here on the wall are Wactorii and Nikolai, they are walking arm in arm. As they pass each guard they bow to them, Nikolai nods to each but all of her attention is on him. Finally they stop and peer over the wall to the city, each of the buildings and homes have lights on. There are also street lights, a few people are walking around. Wactorii smiles.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Things are winding down in the cityy.

As Nikolai sees this it gives him ccomfort, Wactorii looks to him.

WACTORII (SLY)

But I have a feeling things are jusst warming up for us.

Nikolai becomes nervous again. He llooks around for anything to change the subject, his eyes end up on the sky.

NIKOLAI (FALSE CURIOSITY)

What happened to the light?<

Wactorii keeps his eyes on him.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

It is night time here, all over thee planet in fact. Don’t they have night where you come from?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Yes, but that is caused by the rotaation of my planet and the sun. Here you do not have that.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Oh, well like most things about thee clouds and the light so little is known but you can be sure that the lights will return in the morning.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I guess that is why they call in moorning.

Wactorii giggles and he seems to bee finally at ease. She then points up to a pinkish swirl of light and smiles.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Do you see that?

Nikolai looks to it and nods.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

They call that particular one the HHeart of Fervor. It is said that a couple that see one of these together will find themselves uncontrollably drawn to one another. That the mere presents binds their hearts into one.

The uneasiness returns, he looks too her but Wactorii is still looking at the light. The color fades into another and she sighs.

WACTORII (DISAPPOINTED)

Of course, that was before the revoolt. When Felinions choose the time and place for their Incite Fervor, not the government.

Nikolai sees sadness in Wactorii’s eyes.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

You sound a bit regretful.

Wactorii looks away and ponders.

WACTORII (FRUSTRATED)

In a way, I am. You see I’m one of those few Felinions that has romance in her heart, not lust. I love the chase, the little games males and females play to capture each other’s interest. I envy you.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You do?

Wactorii does not look to him but nnods.

WACTORII (FRUSTRATED)

You still have that choice, of who you will pick for your mate. Where we don’t.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

Yes, but sometimes choices can be aa burden as well. You have the opportunity to make a mistake where in your case you don’t have a choice, it can’t be your fault.

Wactorii looks to Nikolai and he loooks to her, they look deep into each other’s souls.

WACTORII (TEASING)

Don’t tell me the Ambassador is a ccoward.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

No, but when you have been in the mmilitary as long as me… Where you aren’t usually given choices, it is hard to grasp a simple concept like choosing.

Wactorii smiles.

WACTORII (SMUG)

Well I choose Incite Fervor with yoou.

Nikolai is taken aback.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What?

Wactorii balks.

WACTORII (QUICKLY)

I meant, to explain this ritual to you. It is a big part of our lives here.

Nikolai becomes uncomfortable.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

I thought Ry was going to tell me aabout it?

WACTORII (REASSURING)

He could, if you want to be bored oout of your skull. It takes a female to make it interesting.

Nikolai opens his mouth to protest but she uses her free hand to place a finger over his lips as if to hush him.

WACTORII (SLY)

Don’t worry, I’ll be gentle.>

He doesn’t know how to take this annd she sees this, it pleases her. She lowers her hand and grabs onto his arm with both hands, she looks up into the sky.

WACTORII (PROUD)

Our Incite Fervor is very physical and intense. Because of this both partners will build up what you call adrenaline. This is done with our claws, we dig and scratch intensely at inanimate objects.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

That is what that post is for in myy room.

Wactorii nods but still does not loook to him.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

Yes, as both prepare they must thinnk aggressively. To build up their physic. In order it to succeed they both must be very abusive and forceful. All logic must be forgotten. Felinions act on their instincts, on their wild urges. The more abusive and forceful they are the better they will enjoy it.

Nikolai looks disgusted but tries nnot to show it.

NIKOLAI (RESTRAINED)

What comes next?

Wactorii smiles.

WACTORII (SMUG)

My favorite part, the chase.>

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

The chase?

Wactorii looks to Nikolai.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

This is where the female runs from the male and he chases her. She darts, leaps and races any way she can in an effort to get away from him. This best works in larger areas with many things to hide behind. All the while she taunts and teases him as she escapes him time after time. So when he does finally catch her he has earned the right to have her. The whole world will know this when they both howl with piecing cries of joy and pain as they complete their Incite Fervor.

Nikolai looks to her in horror and she sees this.

WACTORII (SMUG)

Don’t knock it until you try it.

Wactorii smiles slyly at him and Niikolai is even more shocked.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

I would like to go to my room rightt now.

This makes her smile even more, he sees this.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

So I can be alone!

Wactorii’s smile fades.

WACTORII (DISAPPOINTED)

As you wish, ambassador.

Wactorii holds onto his arm looselyy with one hand, she leads him out the way they came.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - NIKOLAI'S GUEST ROOM

The door opens to the hall and Wacttorii and Nikolai step in, even before he looks to her he speaks.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I’ve had a really nice time, Princeess. But I really need to get some sleep so I must ask you…

His voice trails off when he hears the door close, he looks to it to see Wactorii is still in the room.

WACTORII (SMUG)

I’m not ready to let you go just yeet ambassador.

Wactorii slides the bolt into the llocked position and then turns towards him, he becomes very concerned. She steps up to him and smiles.

WACTORII (SLY)

I’d like to become better acquainteed with you.

Before she can do a thing he grabs her firmly by the shoulders and glares at her.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

What we need to do is talk!<

Wactorii is confused but Nikolai dooes not let up.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

I know why you are here! Why you waant me alone! But it isn’t going to happen! I’ve tried to be nice and polite about it since I’m your guest and you are royalty! But there are some things I refuse to do even if it means jeopardizing my mission or career!

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

What ever do you mean?

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Don’t play coy with me! You want too have Incite Fervor with me! Here and now!

Wactorii looks to him and then bustts out laughing.

WACTORII (LAUGHING)

Surely you are joking.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

You can’t lie to me! All the talk aabout it! How you have the right to have it with anyone you want! The quoting of your laws that I’m obligated to comply! You want Incite Fervor with me more than anything in the world!

Wactorii settles down.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

You are deeply mistaken.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

The only mistake made is that you tthink I would say yes.

Wactorii glares at him.

WACTORII (STERN)

Step back into reality ambassador! We are of two different worlds! We aren’t even the same species! I’m of nobility and you are a warrior! I have a mate, my Prince! So I wouldn’t have Incite Fervor with you if you were the last creature in the universe!

Nikolai is taken aback, he lets go of her and steps back. Wactorii regains control of herself.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

If I really wanted to have it with you I would have come out and said it. Not alone but before the Court, our laws would force you to comply. But Incite Fervor is very sacrid to us, it has become a matter of survival for us whether we like it or not.

NIKOLAI (DISAPPOINTED)

So you have no intension, even the slightest interest in having it with me?

Wactorii nods and Nikolai sighs, hee turns away from her. She looks puzzled and then leans towards him and sniffs the air, she senses something. She steps up behind him.

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

I still sense something is wrong. IIt turned out that this was just a misunderstanding and things fell into place liked you wanted. Yet, you seem disappointed.

Nikolai just looks away and thinks,, she places her hands gently on his shoulders and leans up behind.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

We are both adults, Nikolai. We cann speak our feelings to one another.

Nikolai pauses to think and then loooks over his shoulder to Wactorii.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

To be quite honest there was a partt of me, even though a small part, that wanted you to want me. Wanted the desire of a young female. I would still have turned you down but it would have been nice to have that option.

Wactorii turns him around to face hher, Nikolai looks down at his feet.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

Since we are being honest I have too tell you that if I was a humanoid female I’d pursue to the ends of the universe, there would be no where you could hide from me.

Nikolai sighs.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I know you are just saying that to make me feel good.

Nikolai looks up and smiles.>

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

But I still appreciate it, I reallyy do.

Wactorii smiles.

WACTORII (UNDERSTANDING)

I really do like you, Nikolai. Mostt of the representatives that come through here are always kissing tail. They would do anything to get on my good side. But you, you are different. You have integrity. You have courage. You speak your mind and stand for your beliefs. Best of all you know how to make me laugh.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

And this is all important to you?

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

Very important. I’ve been a princesss all my life. In a position of power and authority. Most of those who I deal with outside of the court fear me, fear what I could do to them. But not you, you seem comfortable with me despite all that.

NIKOLAI (TEASING)

But only when you aren’t talking abbout Incite Fervor.

Wactorii giggles.

WACTORII (LAUGHING)

You see, that is what I mean.

Nikolai nods.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Yes but you make it so easy. Becausse you are up front and honest I know what you want, I know what you need. I really like you too Wactorii.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

What do you say we make it officiall.

Nikolai is confused.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

Let’s be friends, in the humanoid ssense of course.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I would like that.

Nikolai holds out his hand but she pushes into away, instead she grabs him and begins to rub her face up against his. First on one side and then the other, he doesn’t know what to make of it but says nothing. When she is finished she steps back.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

There, it is official now.

Nikolai forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (UNEASY)

Thanks.

Suddenly, Wactorii cocks her head aand gasps.

WACTORII (SHOCKED)

I have a meeting with the King and Queen in 4 MiniYerks.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

4 MiniYerks? How do you know? You'rre not wearing a timepiece.

WACTORII (BLUNT)

Felinion's have internal ones. We ccan tell down to the MiniYerk what time it is. It is linked with the planetary pull of gravity.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Do you have to go?

WACTORII (BLUNT)

I AM a member of the Court, I must..

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Will I see you again?

Wactorii pauses and then smiles.

WACTORII (SMUG)

Of course, we are friends now.

Wactorii touches his arm.

WACTORII (SMUG)

You can't get rid of me that easy.<

Wactorii lets go of him and walks tto the door, she unbolts it. She opens it and turns towards Nikolai.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Get plenty of sleep my friend, I haave a surprise in store for tomorrow.

Nikolai is confused but Wactorii juust winks, turns and exits the room. She closes the door behind her. Nikolai looks at the door pondering. There is a knock at the other door, he looks to it.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Yes?

CODI (THROUGH DOOR)

Can I come in?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Sure.

The door opens and Codi walks into the room, Nikolai smiles to her.

CODI (HONEST)

I heard the Princess leave. You guyys were gone awhile, I beat you back.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Wactorii and I had some things to ddiscuss.

Codi smiles, she steps up to him annd sniffs him.

CODI (BLUNT)

So I smell.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Huh?

CODI (SMUG)

I can pick up her scent on you, I ssee she has marked you.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Marked me?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

She rubbed up against you, from thee intensity of the scent I’d say several times. This is to mark you, to warn other Felinions that you are hers. This might mean just as a friend but those who perform Incite Fervor has been known to do it to.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

There was no Incite Fervor between us, though you didn’t help by trying to prevent that!

Codi is confused and Nikolai sees tthis.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Your little cracks about how I lovee to do things new! Reminding Wactorii that sex in my world is not limited to husband and wife! You put me in a spot!

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

Did I lie about any of that?>

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

No, but you could have been more suupportive! And don’t give me that Deposits about your oath of Felina!

Codi sighs.

CODI (FRUSTRATED)

Look, I was just having a little fuun. I don’t get to do that a lot when I’m commander.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

But you jeopardized the mission! Yoou jeopardized me by this!

CODI (REASSURING)

There is no way in the world anythiing was going to happen. Incite Fervor can only happen between royalty when it comes to the court. I was just having a little fun.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Fun? You put me in an awkward posittion!

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

You a Lena do it all the time. Yourr little jabs at each other, the smart comments. Yet you laugh it off in the end.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

That is different, we do it to easee the tension of our jobs!

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

You were pretty nervous in there! YYou looked like a Rodentia in a room filled with Felinions! I was just trying to help!

Nikolai looks to her and sees she iis telling the truth, he sighs.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I believe you. I’m sorry for going off like that.

It takes Codi a few moments to calmm down but she says nothing.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Actually, now that I can laugh abouut it, it was pretty funny. Lena would be impressed.

Codi tries to act mad but a slight smile appears.

CODI (PLEASED)

Thank you.

But the smile fades from Nikolai ass he grabs his stomach.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

The only down side is that I’m starrving.

CODI (TEASING)

I’m sure I could scrooge up some off that Rodentia for you.

Nikolai suddenly looks ill.<

NIKOLAI (DISGUSTED)

I’d rather starve to death.<

Codi giggles.

CODI (LAUGHING)

Fortunately, you won’t have to.

Nikolai looks to her confused, Codii just points to the desk. He looks to it to see a large clear bag of the food cubes from the ship, his eyes bug out of his head. He quickly races over, grabs the bag and rips it open. Be begins to shove cube into his mouth as fast as he can.

NIKOLAI (FOOD IN HIS MOUTH, IN HEAVEN)

I never thought I’d see the day wheere I thought these were actually good.

As Nikolai continues to stuff his fface Codi goes over to him and smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

I figured you’d feel that way so thhat is why I packed you some.

Nikolai stops stuffing his face andd chews his food, he looks to Codi.

NIKOLAI (FOOD IN HIS MOUTH, GRATEFUL)

I owe you big time!

CODI (TEASING)

You bet you do.

Nikolai starts eating at a slower ppace.

NIKOLAI (EATING, PLEASED)

Glad to know both of my favorite Feelinions are on my side. You and Wactorii, she wants to be my friend.

Codi’s smile fades.

CODI (CONCERNED)

I wouldn’t be so sure of that.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

When Wactorii left with you insteadd of the prince he was furious but the king and queen seemed very pleased, as if that is how they planned it.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Whatever for?

Codi shrugs her shoulders.

CODI (HONEST)

I wish I knew but I sense they arenn’t telling us the truth. So from now until we leave I suggest we stick together like adhesive, we don’t let either of us out of our sight.

Nikolai nods.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I think that would be wise. Wactoriii has something special planned for me tomorrow but wouldn’t explain why.

They look together with concern.

EXT. CASTLE CHAW - FRONT GATES

These are huge gold and iron gates at the front of the castle that face the city. It is morning, the normal light has returned to the clouds. A squad of Felinions are on guard here, all is quiet.

INT. CHAW CASTLE - THRONE ROOM

The king and queen are on their thrrones. Ry leads Codi in, she is dressed in her full dress uniform and is also wearing her necklace. She if flanked by four guards, they walk towards the thrones.

XJKLU (SMUG)

Codiozianquy Zqiuvxbiea, we are so glad that you made time to see us.

They stop before them and Codi lookks to the guards.

CODI (COLD)

Your guards left me with little chooice.

Codi looks back to them.

EZZLAAATY (SMUG)

Be thankful my dear. After all, forr what you have done to us you should be in chains.

XJKLU (SMUG)

That could be arranged still.

The king and queen laugh and Codi gglares at them.

CODI (STERN)

What have you done with Nikolai?

They settle down.

XJKLU (CONFUSED)

You make it sound like we have donee something with him.

CODI (STERN)

Of course you have! We agreed to sttick together but when I woke up I found his room empty!

EZZLAAATY (SMUG)

Then I guess you shouldn’t have oveer slept.

CODI (STERN)

I never oversleep! You must have drrugged me!

XJKLU (SMUG)

Careful Commander, making unfoundedd accusations could land you in big trouble. Far bigger trouble than before.

Codi pauses to think.

CODI (BLUNT)

If that is true then take me to himm!

EZZLAAATY (SMUG)

That might no be possible.

Codi glares at them.

CODI (ANGRY)

I swear! If you have harmed him-

RY (INTERRUPTING, STERN)

He is quiet well, I sent him off wiith Wactorii myself.

CODI (BLUNT)

Then lead me to him.

XJKLU (SMUG)

For his protection we may have to pprevent that.

Codi looks confused to them.>

CODI (BLUNT)

I pose no threat to Nikolai.>

EZZLAAATY (SMUG)

You were born Felinion yet you are dressed like a humanoid, we are not sure where your loyalties lie.

XJKLU (SMUG)

After all, you once pledge service to us but you ended stabbing us in the back.

Codi looks around to the guards, cooncerned.

CODI (CONCERNED)

You brought me here because you aree relinquishing our agreement.

EZZLAAATY (STERN)

For what you have done do you blamee us?

CODI (CONCERNED)

I kept my end of the deal!

The king and queen glare at Codi, sshe becomes more fearful.

XJKLU (SMUG)

Fortunately, for you, we don’t breaak our oath as easily as you.

CODI (CONCERNED)

Then why have I been brought here?<

EZZLAAATY (STERN)

To give you a warning. You can’t hiide behind that necklace forever. There will come a time when you find yourself alone, vulnerable. At that time we will strike.

XJKLU (SMUG)

It may not be this DecaYerk or the next, maybe not even this KiloYerk but it will happen.

RY (SMUG)

And when it does I will gladly dancce on your grave.

The three royals bust out laughing,, this unnerves Codi. They settle down.

XJKLU (SMUG)

But for now we will fulfill your wiish.

The queen looks to Ry.

EZZLAAATY(SMUG)

Take her to see her friend.<

Ry bows down to the king and queen..

RY (SMUG)

As you wish.

Ry stands up and leads Codi and thee guards out, the king and queen are quite pleased.

EXT. ROYALE – STREETS

In the streets Felinions of all claasses rushes about their business as vendors stand outside their store calling to the passerbyers to sample their wares. In the heart of this is Nikolai and Wactorii, they are dressed like they were last night. As they pass everyone stops what they are doing and bows. Some look to Wactorii with respect, but most look to Nikolai with curiosity. As they make their way the two talk.

NIKOLAI (JOKING)

Needless to say I ended up scrubbinng floors for the next CentaYerk.

Wactorii busts out laughing, Nikolaai chuckles too.

WACTORII (HAPPY)

I can’t remember a time when I had so much fun.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Me either, I don’t have a care in tthe world.

They smile at each other and then NNikolai looks around.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I love your city.

WACTORII (HONEST)

Surely it compares nothing to your cities.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

If you like big, cold and impersonaal. Personally I like the quaintness of yours better. The people seem so open a friendly.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Thank you.

They walk for a bit.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I’m surprised. The castle if full oof guards and yet when you step out it is alone, no protection whatsoever.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

We treat out people with respect annd dignity, there is no reason to fear them.

Wactorii grabs his arm and Nikolai looks to her as they walk, she smiles.

WACTORII (SMUG)

Besides, I have you to protect me.<

Nikolai smiles back as they continuue to walk.

INT. CHAW CASTLE – MOURNING ROOM

This is a large garden within the ccastle, exotic planets grow her. There are walls on each side, each with a doorway. In the center is a large stone obelisk, there is heliographic on each side. A pool of water is at the base. Codi races through one of the doorways and then stops, she looks frantically around.

CODI (FRANTIC)

Nikolai! Nikolai!

Codi’s ears perk up as she pauses tto listen.

CODI (FRANTIC)

Where are you?

Codi looks around some more and theen sighs.

CODI (CONFUSED)

He’s not here?

Suddenly doors are slammed shut oveer each of the doorway leaving no means of escape, Codi looks around.

CODI (SHOCKED)

It’s a trap!

VOICE (SMUG)

That is what I always liked about yyou Codiozianquy, you always realized the obvious when it was far too late.

CODI (CONFUSED)

That voice…

Codi sniffs the air.

CODI (CONFUSED)

That scent…

Codi’s eyes narrow.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Xiiltriiana!

A Felinion of Codi’s build but sligghtly older steps from behind the obelisk, she has pink fur with gray stripes. She is dressed in simple animal hide wrist and headband, around her neck is a necklace made of animal teeth. This is Xiiltriiana. She indicates to herself and smiles.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

You remembered me after all these KKiloYerks, I’m touched.

Codi glares at her.

CODI (ANNOYED)

How could I forget after what you ddid to me?

Xiiltriiana points to her.

XIILTRIIANA (ANNOYED)

You are the one that ruined my lifee!

The two Felinions step towards eachh other, they eye each other over.

CODI (ANNOYED)

What is this about? What do you wannt?

XIILTRIIANA (ANNOYED)

Revenge of course!

Codi pauses to think but does not ttake her eyes off of her.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

Of course, the court is bound by myy agreement so they can’t touch me but that doesn’t prevent someone like you taking matters into their own paws.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Yes, thanks to you I can clear my nname and be on the top once more. While someone like you will finally get what you deserve.

Codi glances over to the obelisk.

CODI (DEFIANT)

Don’t you have any respect for the dead? This garden is decicated in the name of all those that fell in the Revolt of Dissolution!

Xiiltriiana busts out laughing.

XIILTRIIANA (LAUGHING)

You should be the last one to speakk of respect. Because of you hundreds died!

CODI (DEFENSIVE)

Because of what I did I stopped youu from killing thousands!

Xiiltriiana settles down but continnues to smile.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

You only prolonged, not prevented tthat.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Let’s get this over with!

The Felinions extend their claws annd take defensive stances, their ears fold back. They begin to circle one another. They hiss and swipe at the air in front of them trying to intimidate each other, neither backs off.

EXT. ROYALE – STREETS

Nikolai and Wactorii continue walk through the streets. They stop before a small shop, the signs are in heliographic.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Here we are.

Nikolai looks the building over.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What is this place.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

It is a specialty shop that you willl find great interest in.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Specializing in what?

Nikolai looks to her confused, she just smiles at him.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

You’re going to leave me in the darrk aren’t you?

WACTORII (SLY)

I would hate to ruin the surprise.<

Nikolai rolls his eyes and she gigggles, he opens the door.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

After you.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Why thank you.

Wactorii steps inside and Nikolai ffollows, the business in the streets continues.

INT. SPECIALTY SHOP

This is a small store packed with ooddities and knickknacks. There is a small counter with a Shopkeeper behind it, she is a Felinion dressed in a plain short robe. Nikolai and Wactorii step into the room, as soon as the Shopkeeper sees her he smiles.

SHOPKEEPRER (PLEASED)

Princess, this is indeed an honor.<

The Shopkeeper bows to them. When sshe stands back up the Princess smiles to her.

WACTORII (HOPEFUL)

Are the items I have special ordereed ready?

The Shopkeeper nods.

SHOPKEEPER (PLEASED)

Yes, I just finished personalizing them. I will fetch them at once.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Thank you.

The Shopkeeper disappears into the back room and Nikolai looks to Wactorii.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I didn’t know you could be so cruell, Wactorii.

Wactorii looks to Nikolai with conccern but he smiles.

NIKOLAI (TEASING)

The suspense is killing me.<

Wactorii giggles but then becomes sserious.

WACTORII (CONCERNED)

I just hope you like it.

The Shopkeeper returns with some thhings wrapped in cloth, we can’t see what they are. She puts it down on the counter before them.

SHOPKEEPER (PLEASED)

I hope they are to your liking, Priincess. I followed you specifications as best I could.

The Shopkeeper begins to unwrap thee cloth, Wactorii and Nikolai look on with equal anticipation. Two wristbands are revealed. They are made of strange animal hides and have heliographic etched into them. Fastened to a metal ring is a gold disk in which half of it has been broken off, it leaves jagged edges. Nikolai is a bit disappointed with them but Wactorii absolutely loves them, she picks one of them up and looks it over.

WACTORII (IMPRESSED)

They are perfect.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

With no disrespect intended, but thhey would be if it wasn’t for this.

Nikolai points to the jagged edges of the disk.

The Shopkeeper chuckles and Wactoriii smiles.

WACTORII (SMUG)

That is what makes them so special..

Nikolai is confused, Wactorii can ssense this without looking up. She holds the wrist band over his arm.

WACTORII (BLUNT)

If you will allow me to demonstratee.

Nikolai hesitates and then nods.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Be my guest.

Wactorii begins to strap the wrist band around his right hand, she talks as she works without looking up.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

These are Yarix Honor Bands. They hhave been used by my people for generations. They signify a bond, a friendship between two.

Wactorii finishes and grabs the othher wrist band, she holds it out to Nikolai.

WACTORII (PLEASANT)

If you would please do the honors.<

Nikolai nods and take the wrist bannd from her, she holds out her left arm and he begins to strap in on.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

The style, the size, the inscriptioons, the color are identical in every way but one.

Nikolai finishes and she holds herss next to his, she grabs the shattered disk on hers.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

This may seem defective to you but it is exactly as designed. It has been broken in two, the fracture is so unique that no two are exactly the same.

Nikolai grabs his disk too to look at it.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

So when put together with its mate……

His and her disks fit together as oone.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

It is as if they are one. Just likee the bond between its owners.

Nikolai looks to it and is impresseed, Wactorii looks to him.

WACTORII (EXPLAINING)

The inscriptions reinforce this. Thhese particular ones state our friendship by name. These are my gift to you, that is if you wish that to be.

Nikolai looks to her and smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I would love to keep this.

WACTORII (STERN)

This is not to be taken lightly. Thhough this bond is not as strong as that of a Kalatir, it is still nothing to be taken granted. If you feel in the very least not as strong as my commitment to my friendship to you then you will refuse my gift. Better to hurt my feelings than our friendship.

Nikolai lets go of the disk and graabs Wactorii’s hand, he squeezes it tight.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Nothing, and I do mean nothing, couuld ever take this from me.

Wactorii smiles.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Thank you.

They stare at each other for a longg moment and then let go.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

But I’m not finished yet.

Nikolai is confused but as she is aabout to explain there are screams and growls from outside. Nikolai and Wactorii race over to the window. The Shopkeeper jumps over the counter and joins them, the three of them look outside in horror.

SHOPKEEPER (SHOCKED)

This can’t be! This just can’t be!<

They three of them continue to lookk out the window in horror.

EXT. ROYALE – STREETS

Outside it looks like a war zone. DDead bodies of male, female and young Felinions are scattered all over the street. Blood and body parts are splattered all over the place. A group of Prevaricates race around hacking and slashing Felinions left and right. The felines are horrified but the Prevaricates laugh and joke as the continue to slaughter the innocent.

INT. SPECIALTY SHOP

Back inside the Shopkeeper, Wactoriii and Nikolai look through the window in horror.

SHOPKEEPER (HORRIFIED)

How did the Prevaricates escape? Whho let them out?

WACTORII (SHOCKED)

Those questions need to be put asidde, what me need to worry about is-

Blood splatters on the window and tthe Shopkeeper screams, a Prevaricate looks inside and spots the three but his eyes are locked on Wactorii.

PREVARICATE (FROM BEHIND THE WINDOW, SHOUTING)

I’ve found the Princess!

Wactorii gasps but the Shopkeeper qquickly rushes to the door and bolts it, Nikolai notices this and looks around the room.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

This is not the ideal place to defeend. Do you have a more secure room hopefully with no windows.

Nikolai looks to the Shopkeeper butt she is rushing back to the counter.

SHOPKEEPER (HONEST)

The princess has been spotted, theyy will do anything to get their paws on her. You need to get her out of here and back to the castle as fast as you can.

The Shopkeeper reaches behind the ccounter.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What about you?

The Shopkeeper pulls out a large swword.

SHOPKEEPER (EXPLAINING)

I will try and keep them busy as loong as I can.

Wactorii looks to the Shopkeeper.

WACTORII (BLUNT)

I won’t allow you to sacrifice yourrself for me!

The shopkeeper looks to Wactorii.

SHOPKEEPER (STERN)

You are the princess, part of the lleadership of this world. If anything were to happen to you then all is lost. I will gladly give my life for yours.

Wactorii opens her mouth to protestt but there is loud banging on the door, everyone looks to it. A great force is pounding against it, the Shopkeeper glares at Wactorii.

SHOPKEEPER (STERN)

There is no time to argue!

The Shopkeeper looks to Nikolai.

SHOPKEEPER (STERN)

Take her out the back while you stiill can!

Nikolai grabs Wactorii’s hand, she looks to him not wanting to go. But she sees in his eyes they have no choice, she allows him to lead her towards the back room. As they go she looks back to the Shopkeeper.

WACTORII (PROUD)

I will never forget this!

The Shopkeeper just bows to Wactoriii and then the two of them are gone. The pounding on the door gets louder and louder, the Shopkeeper turns to it and takes a defensive stance with her sword. The pounding continues until the door gives way, a group of Prevaricate stumble in. When they see the Shopkeeper they smile. They taunt her in their native language, she curses them in her own. They growl at her and attack. They charge one after the other. The first two the Shopkeeper dodges their attacks and kills the attackers, but the third time the rest of the Prevaricates rush all at once. She manages to kill one more before they kill her. As she falls dead to the floor they roar with delight.

INT. CHAW CASTLE – MOURNING ROOM

Xiiltriiana roars and lunges at Coddi with her claws but she blocks the attack by holding up her arm up so her attacker’s arm his her. Xiiltriiana attacks with the other hand and that too is blocked. So she attacks with both hands at the same time but again they are block. Both Felinions press against each other with all their might but neither one of them falters, they glare at one another.

CODI (STERN)

Tell me what they did with Nikolai!!

Xiiltriiana smiles.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Such concern for a humanoid. He is some sort of pet?

CODI (STERN)

Tell me!

Xiiltriiana pauses for a moment.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Perhaps he is dead.

CODI (STERN)

No, if that were the case you wouldd gladly admit it.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Well you will have to beat me to fiind out!

Xiiltriiana jumps back and takes a defensive stance, so does Codi.

CODI (SMUG)

Retreating already Xiiltriiana? Thaat seems to be a common trait for you.

XIILTRIIANA (DEFENSIVE)

Not retreating, reevaluating. Unlikke you when something doesn’t work I try something else.

CODI (SMUG)

So that is how you justify murder?<

XIILTRIIANA (DEFENSIVE)

At least I didn’t turn my back on mmy people!

Codi hisses and she hisses back. Xiiiltriiana lunges forward and begins to attack, one after another. But like before Codi is able to deflect them.

CODI (SMUG)

You forget last time we spared off I come up on top. You can’t win Xiiltriiana!

Xiiltriiana ignores her and continuues to attack, as she does she quickly jumps to one side and slashes at Codi, she penetrates her defenses and slashes Codi’s side. She flinches with pain and jumps back, she looks down to see thick orange blood in the wound. Codi looks up just in time see Xiiltriiana leap into the air, extend one of her legs and spin around. The claws on her foot slice across Codi’s stomach, again blood is drawn. Codi leans forward from the pain but refuses to cry out. Xiiltriiana lands on her feet. Before she can recover Codi is slashes across the side of her face, more blood is exposed. She groans from the pain and stumbles back, Xiiltriiana lets up on her attack. Codi reaches up and touches her face, it stings. When she looks to her hand she sees her own blood.

XIILTRIIANA (DEFENSIVE)

As you can see I’ve taken some addiitional training since we last met.

Codi glares at Xiiltriiana and takees a defensive stance.

CODI (DEFIANT)

That was just round one!

Xiiltriiana laughs.

XIILTRIIANA (LAUGHING)

I hardly think you will last anotheer round.

Xiiltriiana settles down.

XIILTRIIANA (BLUNT)

I can’t let this happen too quicklyy, you need to suffer just like you made me suffer.

Xiiltriiana retracts her claws.

XIILTRIIANA (BLUNT)

What do you say we do this the old fashion way?

Xiiltriiana puts up her dukes, Codii sees this and considers this.

CODI (CONFUSED)

So you wouldn’t use claws from heree on out?

Xiiltriiana nods.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

I give you my word.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Like you ever held to your word!

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Do you have much choice?

Codi looks to her wounds and then llooks back to Xiiltriiana, she retracts her claws as well. She takes a defensive, the two begin to circle one another. Looking for an opportunity to attack. Xiiltriiana lunges forward with her fist but she side steps it, as she stumbles past Codi punches her. Xiiltriiana spins around just in time to be punched again, she reels back but Codi does not let up, she punches her again and again. Each make he stumble back further and further until she finds herself up against a wall. With no where to run Xiiltriiana glares at Codi.

CODI (SMUG)

And as you can see the UCF has giveen me some additional training as well.

XIILTRIIANA (DEFENSIVE)

You hardly touched me!

Codi points to her own nose, Xiiltrriiana sees this and touches her face. When she looks to her hand she sees her own blood. She hisses at Codi and pushes off the wall with all fours, she leaps at her. But Codi is ready for her, she steps to the side and sticks out her arm and catches her across the neck. Xiiltriiana groan as she falls to the ground. Before she can recover Codi reaches down and grabs her by the mane, she pulls her to her feet. Xiiltriiana scream in pain. Then Codi grabs her wrist and twists it behind her back, it is quite painful. She places her head next to hers.

CODI (BLUNT)

Tell me what they did with Nikolai!!

Xiiltriiana struggles to get free sso Codi twists the arm up higher causing more pain, she curses her in their native language.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Tell me what I want to know before I bust your arm off!

Xiiltriiana fights the pain but it is too much.

XIILTRIIANA (IN PAIN, FRANTIC)

Okay! Okay! I’ll tell you everythinng!

Codi smiles and eases off a bit.

XIILTRIIANA (IN PAIN, FRUSTRATED)

There is just one thing you need too remember.

Codi looks to her confused but sayss nothing.

XIILTRIIANA (SLY)

You were right about me keeping my word.

With her free hand Xiiltriiana exteends her claws and digs them deep into Codi’s leg, she groans from the pain but refuses to let go of her. She digs deep and it is too much, Codi lets go and grabs her wounded leg. She stumbles back into the wall. Xiiltriiana retracts her claws and then races up to her, she punches Codi in her wounded gut and she doubles over. Then Xiiltriiana thrusts her knee up into her face, there is a loud crack and Codi is thrusted into a standing position again. Blood trickles from her noise. At this point she is so numb with pain she can’t offer any resistance so Xiiltriiana grabs her head, spins her around and forces her to bend over.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

You forget that…

Xiiltriiana smashes Codi’s head intto the wall.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

I…

Xiiltriiana smashes Codi’s head intto the wall again.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Always…

Xiiltriiana smashes Codi’s head intto the wall one more time.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Win!

Xiiltriiana lets go of Codi and shee collapses to the ground, she is out cold. She crouches down and looks over the body with glee. Then she extends her claws and places them to her neck.

XIILTRIIANA (SMUG)

Time to end this once and for all.<

As Xiiltriiana prepares to slice Coodi’s neck open she laughs insanely.

EXT. ROYALE – ALLEY

Wactorii and Nikolai are creeping bbehind the stores, there are gaps between the buildings where the fighting in the streets can be seen. Nikolai tries not to look at the battle but Wactorii sneaks a peek every chance she gets. The cries of the slain and dying can be heard, it is too much for Wactorii. She stops.

WACTORII (FRUSTRATED)

I can’t take any more of this.

Nikolai stops but does not look bacck.

WACTORII (FRUSTRATED)

I can not run while others die, I mmust help.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

There is nothing you can do, we havve no weapons are outnumbered. The best we can do is get you to safety where you can rally your people and turn the tide.

Wactorii hisses at Nikolai.<

WACTORII (ANNOYED)

Those are my people dying, not yourrs! They are Felinions, you are not! You can’t feel their pain as I can! Run if you must coward but I choose to stand and fight!

Nikolai turns towards her and she ssees a tear run down his cheek.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

You think just because I’m not one of you I don’t feel for them! That I because I am a warrior I am immune to their suffering! Well I say Oxidization Deposits to you!

Wactorii sees the hurt in his eyes,, she goes up to Nikolai. She tries to say something to make it right but she can’t find the words. He grabs her by the shoulders and looks into her eyes.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

We need to get you to safety becausse if they catch you the valiant acts of that Shopkeeper and all those Felinions that died today will have died in vain!

Wactorii studies him and then nods..

WACTORII (UNDERSTANDING)

Lead the way.

Nikolai smiles and Wactorii smiles back. But as they turn to leave there is a loud roar. They look up to one of the roofs to see a Prevaricate jump down at them. Wactorii scream as he lands on Nikolai, the human is thrown into a wall and severally stunned. Seeing that he is no long a threat the attacker turns on Wactorii, he snarls as he walks towards her. She gasps and starts to walk backwards, he taunts her in his own language but she is too scared to response. As she continues back she stumbles over and old crate and lands on her back, he towers over her and smiles. He reaches down to for her but she is too terrified to run.

VOICE (ANNOYED)

Don’t you dare harm her!

The Prevaricate turns and looks conncerned, but when he sees it is just Nikolai he smiles.

PREVARICATE (SMUG)

An idle threat from an idle creaturre.

Nikolai sneers and decks him, but tthe creature hardly feel it. The human grabs his hand and moans with pain. The Prevaricate laughs and back hands him, Nikolai flies back onto his butt. The attacker draws a knife and points to him.

PREVARICATE (SMUG)

If you insist on dressing up like aa Felinion, you should be prepared to die like one.

The Prevaricate steps toward Nikolaai, he quickly looks around for a weapon to defend himself but there is nothing to see. As the beast towers over him the creature scream in agony, it is so bad he drops his knife. He tries to reach behind himself at something but it is out of reach, He turns to the side and we see Wactorii is on his back. Her claws on her feet are dug into him freeing her hands, she uses the claws on her hands to dig and tear at the Prevaricate. His fur and flesh flies all over the places he growls and hisses at him. It is too much for him, he falls to the ground. She tucks and rolls, she ends in a crouching position next to him. She does not hesitate in grabbing the knife, jumping onto of the Prevaricate and repeatedly lunging the blade into his chest. After the first few attacks he dies but she continues to plunge the blade. Nikolai gets up and goes over to her, as she continues to kill the dead creature she cruses him in her own tongue.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

Enough Wactorii!

Wactorii stops and looks to Nikolaii.

NIKOLAI (STERN)

He’s dead!

Wactorii looks back to the dead creeature and sees this is so, the anger drains from her. Nikolai takes the knife from her, she does not resist. Then she looks to her hands, they are covered with prevaricate blood. Nikolai slips the blade into his belt and offers a hand. She hesitates and then takes it, he helps her up. Then they race off down the alley hand in hand.

INT. CHAW CASTLE – MOURNING ROOM

All the doors have been open and Xiiiltriiana is nowhere to be seen. Codi lies on the ground motionless. Ry enters with some guards, they walk over to her. The guards have no reaction but he is smiling ear to ear. Then he nods and one of the guards picks her up, throws her over his shoulder and goes over to the pool. Then he tosses her in, the water turns orange from the blood. As soon as she hits it she snaps into a sitting position, she coughs and spits out water. She is alive. Confused she looks around.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What the…

Ry and the other guards step up to Codi, she looks to him.

CODI (CONFUSED)

What happened?

RY (SMUG)

You got your tail kicked.

CODI (ANNOYED)

I know that! But Xiiltriiana had mee! She was sent to kill me yet I’m still alive!

RY (SMUG)

Officially, we arrived just in timee and saved you from her.

CODI (CONFUSED)

Unofficially?

RY (SMUG)

We wanted to show you that you are not welcome here on Felina. If you ever return we won’t restrain Xiiltriiana next time.

Codi glares at Ry but he just smilees.

CODI (CONCERNED)

What about Nikolai? What did you doo with him?

RY (SMUG)

I’ll explain on the way.

The guard step up to Codi, they graab her and roughly hoist her to her feet. Ry heads for an exit and they drag her behind, she offers no resistance.

EXT. CASTLE CHAW - FRONT GATES

The Felinion guards lay dead at thee gates, there are a few Prevaricate bodies as well. Off towards the town the road leading up to the gate is blocked by a two Prevaricates, they are unarmed. Nikolai and Wactorii peek around the last building before the castle, it is a long way from them to the gates.

WACTORII (RELIEVED)

There is the castle.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

So are they.

Nikolai points to the Prevaricate, she sees this. They look the situation over.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

The gates are locked but that doesnn’t mean the castle is secured.

WACTORII (SMUG)

But that does!

Nikolai looks to Wactorii, she is ppointing to the battlements over the gates. There is a group of Felinion guards their with laser rifles, Wactorii tries to get their attention but they do not see her.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

We are too far away which is probabbly why the Prevaricates aren’t hiding.

WACTORII (HONEST)

But if we call out the guard will ccome and help.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

But the Prevaricates will get to uss first, we’re in a jam.

Nikolai pauses to think as Wactoriii looks to him.

WACTORII (STERN)

I hope after all this your view on Prevaricates has changed.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

Trust me, if we get out of this onee Command Control will know the only good Prevaricate is a dead one.

Wactorii smiles.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

If only I had a Laz…

Nikolai pauses and draws his knife..

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

I guess this will have to do.

Wactorii looks to him confused.

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

Do for what?

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

If we stay here it is only a matterr of time before the Prevaricates find us. Your only hope is reaching the castle.

Wactorii’s ears perk up.

WACTORII (CONFUSED)

MY only hope?

Nikolai offers no explanation so Waactorii studies him, it is as if she can read his mind.

WACTORII (BLUNT)

Oh no! Where ever you go I go! We aare friends! Remember?

Wactorii holds up her wrist band, NNikolai looks to it.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Whether we both live or die this DeecaYerk nothing can change that. But friends have to look beyond this. To see the big picture. You are the princess of Felina while I’m just a visitor, an outsider. Unimportant.

WACTORII (STERN)

You are my friend! You are importannt to me!

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

Look, I’m getting a little tired off having to remind you of this. The Prevaricates are after you, not me. If you should be killed or captured then they win, but if you make it to the castle then they have failed.

WACTORII (STERN)

You can’t sacrifice yourself for mee! I won’t allow it!

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

And I won’t allow you to sacrifice for me.

Wactorii opens her mouth but Nikolaai cuts her off.

NIKOLAI (PLEADING)

You know it has to be like this. Pllease don’t make it any harder!

Wactorii looks to him and sees the pain in Nikolai’s eyes, he looks to her as sees a tear run down her cheek.

WACTORII (EMOTIONAL)

I will never forget you Nikolai Sollace, my friend. Nor will I allow any of my people to forget you.

Nikolai forces as smile.

NIKOLAI (JOKING)

Just make sure they spell my name rright on the memorial.

Wactorii finds nothing funny as anoother tear rolls down her face. Then she grabs his, lick him on the side of his face and hugs him tight. Nikolai hugs her back. After a few moments they break apart and look to the castle.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Give we a five pace head start thenn bolt to the castle. I know you Felinions can run faster than humans so pace yourself until we reach the Prevaricate then break loose. Scream and shout at the guards so they see you, make sure to identify yourself so they don’t shoot you. Once you get to the gates stay in their sight, don’t get too close to the wall. That way they can cover you until they can open the doors and let you in.

WACTORII (STERN)

I swear to you, as soon as the doorr open I will have the guard go to your aide so try and stay alive.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

Trust me, I’ll try my best.<

Nikolai then looks to Watorii.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Ready?

Wactorii nods. They exchange one fiinal glance and then he races for the Prevaricates, as he does he screams and hollers at them so they are only focused on him. Wactorii starts behind him. Nikolai stops before them, he waves his knife around and they both glare at him.

NIKOLAI (ANNOYED)

Come and get me you flea bitten monngrels!

They take a defensive stance as he continues to taunt them. By now Wactorii as reached them unnoticed, she breaks into full stride headed for the castle. But at the last second one of them see her, he quickly jump in her path and she comes to a dead stop, he grabs her and wraps his arm around her neck and pulls her up against his body. She is too terrified to do anything but scream. The other Prevaricate is enjoying this so much he forgets about Nikolai. The human has sees what has happened and glares at her attacker.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

Let go of her you Sepcor!

Nikolai stabs the Prevaricate in thhe side, he roars with pain and lets go. He looks to his wound in horror. Wactorii just stands there is fear, Nikolai glares at her.

NIKOLAI (ANGRY)

Run!!!

Wactorii snaps out of it, by now thhe wounded Prevaricate has recovered. He reaches for her but she is already running for the castle, she quickly outdistance him. As she races towards the gates she screams to the guards in her native language, they quickly point their weapons and fire. The pursuing Prevaricate is killed in his tracks, this pleases Nikolai very much. Suddenly, the remaining Prevaricate drives his elbow into Nikolai’s back, the force is so strong that he is instantly flatten to the ground. In the process he drops his knife. The attacker jumps down on his knees next to him, grabs the knife and drives it into Nikolai’s chest. As he screams in pain the Prevaricate curses him in his own language. The blade is raised high to be used again but lasers hit the Prevaricate, he falls over dead. A group of Felinion guards race up to them, they are lead by Wactorii. Blood gushes out of his chest as she kneels next to him, she uses her hands to try and stop the bleeding but the blood oozes between her fingers. She looks to the guards.

WACTORII (FRANTIC)

We must get him inside! Call for thhe PTTCP!

The life drains from Nikolai, he reeaches up and grabs her arm, she looks down to him.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

We are going to save you Nikolai! II swear we will!

Nikolai forces a smile.

NIKOLAI (WEAK)

Don’t make promises you can’t keep..

Wactorii looks to him and sees thiss is true, she hangs her head. He squeezes her arm.

NIKOLAI (WEAK)

I have no regrets Wactorii… I wouldd do it all over again for you… For your people… For once in my life I really made a difference… So you should have no regrets… Promise me this…

It takes all of Wactorii’s courage to nod.

WACTORII (EMOTIONAL)

It will be as you request.

NIKOLAI (WEAK)

Friends forever…

WACTORII (EMOTIONAL)

Friends always.

Nikolai forces a smile and then hiss grip weakens, his arm falls free and his head turns to the side. As his eyes close and he dies. Wactorii bursts into tears as she burying her face into her blood stained hands, she weeps openly. The guards try to comfort her but it is no use.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. CHAW CASTLE – APPARITION ROOM

This is a plain stone room lit by eelectronic light. In the center of the room is large slab about the size of a bed, the top is covered with soft squishy foam. Nikolai looks like he did when he first left the castle, unharmed. Electrodes are connected to his wrists, ankles, forehead and chest. The leads for these go into a large odd looking computer, there are three separate consoles connected to it each is being controlled by a Felinion tech. A larger screen is connected to the system, it has the same scene of Wactorii weeping over Nikolai’s corpse. The king, queen, Prince and Princess are all looking to the larger screen. Suddenly, the screen goes dark. Nikolai’s eyes snap open and he quickly sits up, he looks himself over with great confusion.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

Welcome back Ambassador.

Nikolai looks over to the other eveen more confused.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

I don’t understand? I died, I rememmber that yet I am alive.

Nikolai looks the apparatus he is cconnected to over.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Is Felinion technology so advanced that dead is a thing of the past?

EZZLAAATY (SMUG)

Death is beyond the control of the Court of Chaw, we are mortal the same as you.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Then what happened?

XJKLU (SMUG)

You were placed on trial.

Nikolai is confused, Ezzlaaaty lookks to the techs and nods. They begin to work their terminals. The big screen comes to life, everyone watches it. It shows Wactorii and Nikolai walking down the streets of Royale as they were before. The image switches to inside the shop and Wactorii puts on the wrist band Nikolai. Then it switches once more to the Prevaricate attack in the streets.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What I witnessed was not real?

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

It makes sense now. How I easily foorgot Codi’s warning. How her absents did not alarm me. How I could understand all Felinions and Prevaricates.

Nikolai looks to the others.>

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You transmitted a VR-Disk into my mmind?

The others look back to Nikolai.

EZZLAAATY (EXPLAINING)

It was not a preset data stream butt more of a simulation. The actions in your mind were reflected in it.

NIKOLAI (UNDERSTANDING)

So this was some sort of test.

Xjklu shakes his head.

XJKLU (EXPLAINING)

Not a test, a trial.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

That is the second time you have meentioned trial. What crime did I commit that I must defend myself against?

EZZAAATY (EXPLAINING)

Felinions are a very private race. We have few friends but those that we consider to be them we are very close to. Before we can open our world to you Humanoids we have to see you for who you really are and not what you would like to be. You must be tested for the secrets that we would share with you could easily be used against us. We must be sure.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I swear to you we mean you no harm..

RY (BLUNT)

You have proven yourself to be a trrue diplomat up here.

Ry points to his head.

RY (BLUNT)

But friendship and trust comes fromm here.

Ry points to his heart, Nikolai connsiders something.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

How do I know I’m still in the simuulation? That this conversation is not a test as well.

RY (SMUG)

By this.

Ry steps up to Nikolai, reaches forr his face and scratches the human with one of his claws. Nikolai flinches and reaches up to touch the wound, it stings. Wactorii glares at Ry.

WACTORII (ANNOYED)

That was uncalled for!

Ry chuckles.

RY (SMUG)

Perhaps but it was fun.

Wactorii fumes as Nikolai looks to his hand, he sees blood.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

But I saw blood in the simulation.<

Wactorii looks to Nikolai with feelling.

WACTORII (APOLOGETIC)

Yes but did you feel pain? Did you smell the stench of death?

Nikolai pauses to think.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

Now that you mention it, I didn’t.<

Wactorii sneers at Ry.

WACTORII (STERN)

But now you sense all that, especiaally the foul Oder from the Prince.

Ry takes offense but this pleases WWactorii.

XJKLU (EXPLAINING)

Anything that happened before you wwent to sleep last night really did happen.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Okay, so I’m back in reality. You aall saw how I reacted in your simulation so what is the verdict?

XJKLU (EXPLAINING)

I see your trials differ from ours.. It is not just the presentation and the facts that matter, but intensions and ramifications.

WACTORII (REASSURING)

The Ambassador thought nothing of hhimself but of my safety and Felina’s interests. He gave his life for us, what more proof do you need?

RY (DEFENSIVE)

Perhaps he knew that he was being ttested, that he was not in reality. He stated himself some things did not make sense. You may be easily fooled Wactorii but I am not, I say he failed!

Wactorii glares at Ry and he glaress back.

EZZAAATY (HONEST)

As you can see Ambassador, the triaal was not a clear cut success.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

So where do we go from here?>

XJKLU (EXPLAINING)

Your results will be analyzed. It wwill be scrutinized by us. Others will be called in to help. Before we can proceed or withdraw we all must come to an agreement. This may take DecaYerks, CentaYerks or even KiloYerks. Regardless we will not be rushed.

NIKOLAI (RESPECTFUL)

Whatever your decision is I will reespect it.

Ry rolls his eyes but Wactorii smilles.

EZZAAATY (BLUNT)

Until then we must ask you to leavee, we are finished with you for now. Go to your ship and return home, we will contact your government once we decide.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Where is my aide?

XJKLU (EXPLAINING)

She is awaiting for you at the shutttle, along with all your belongings. You will be taken there.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

Thank you for your hospitality, it was most…

Nikolai’s voice trails off when thee court ignores him and turns away, they head for the exit. Before they leave Wactorii steals one last look at Nikolai, she flashes a smile. The techs abandon their stations and begin to disconnect Nikolai from the system, he is left there to ponder.

EXT. CHAW CASTLE COURTYARD

The Felinion shuttle is here and reeady to leave. Codi is here pacing back and forth worried, the scars from her battle are still with her. The shuttle guards stand near by watching her. As she continues her ears perk up and she stops, she sniffs the air and quickly spins around. She sees Nikolai walking towards her escorted by four guards, she is so relieved to see him and he is equally glad to see her. When he stops before her they look each other over, their expressions reflect their relief.

CODI (RELIEVED)

Are you okay? Did they hurt you?

Nikolai shakes his head.

NIKOLAI (REASSURING)

I’m fine but I can see you can’t saay the same.

Codi looks herself over.

CODI (UNDERSTANDING)

Oh, these. I had a little run in.

NIKOLAI (CONCERNED)

Looks like you ran into a fleet of Legion.

Codi looks back to Nikolai.<

CODI (HONEST)

No, just my sister.

Nikolai looks confused and Codi seees this, she sighs.

CODI (EXPLAINING)

I tell you later.

The guards look to Nikolai and Codii.

GUARD (STERN)

It is time for you to leave.>

Codi and Nikolai look to the guardss, they indicate to the shuttle. So they turn and start up the ramp.

VOICE (SHOUTING)

Wait! Don’t leave!

Everyone turns to see Wactorii raciing up to them, they are confused.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What are you doing here?

WACTORII (EXCITED)

You forgot this!

Wactorii holds out his wristband frrom the simulation.

WACTORII (PLEASED)

I bought one for you for real.

Wactorii steps towards Nikolai but Codi gets in her way.

CODI (ANNOYED)

Haven’t you done enough damage!

Wactorii jumps back and the guards ready their spears.

CODI (ANNOYED)

You lied to him! You deceived him! You manipulated him! Friends don’t do that to one another.

WACTORII (DEFENSIVE)

It wasn’t my fault! I was forced too do what I did!

CODI (ANGRY)

No one held a laz to your head! Theey didn’t hold a spear to your back! We all have to make a choice! You made the wrong one!

Codi glares at Wactorii, she is cloose to tears. She drops the wrist band in anguish.

CODI (ANGRY)

Now get out of our sight! You disguust me!

Refusing to let Codi see her cry, sshe turns away. She is devastated.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I appreciate you trying to protect me Codi, but I can speak for myself.

Everyone looks to Nikolai, even Wacctorii. He reaches down and picks up the wrist band, he looks to it.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

We don’t live in a perfect world. WWe are all pawns, even those with royal titles. It is no different with the government in my world. We are used so much that we sometime forget we are being used.

Nikolai looks to Wactorii.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

You have shown me great hospitalityy ever since I arrived, Princess. You have showered me with gifts and tried to show me insight to your world. Because of that I accept your kind gift.

Wactorii wipes a tear away.<

WACTORII (MOVED)

Thank you.

Codi looks to Nikolai confused.

CODI (CONFUSED)

After all she has done against you,, after all they have done. How can you possibly forgive her?

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

It's God's job to judge people. It's ours to forgive our enemies. No matter how heinous the crime or how much they have betrayed us. If we can forgive our enemies then surely can forgive our friends.

Wactorii steps up to Nikolai.

WACTORII (IMPRESSED)

Your god is nothing like our god.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

So I have been told.

Wactorii gently grabs Nikolai by thhe shoulders.

WACTORII (IMPRESSED)

I will miss you Nikolai Solace.

Wactorii rubs her face to his severral times, once on one side and then the other. Then she looks to him, he only smiles back. Then she lets go and turns away, she walks back towards the castle as she thinks about what has been said here. Nikolai turns and starts up the ramp, Codi follows and the shuttle guards are right behind them. As everyone goes their separate ways Ry can be seen peering out of the castle, he glares at Nikolai and clenches his fists.

EXT. FELINION SHUTTLE OVER FELINIA (OPTICAL) - MED SHOT

The shuttle is headed upwards, the planet can be seen below.

INT. FELINION SHUTTLE - PASSENGER CCOMPARTMENT

Nikolai and Codi sit in the shuttlee and are strapped to their chairs. Their duffel bags are next to them. She is studying him, he notices this.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Is there something wrong?

Codi smiles.

CODI (SMUG)

That was a wise move back there, Niikolai. You almost have me fooled.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

What do you mean?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

That whole speech about forgivenesss. You pretended to forgive the princess so she would continue to be on our side. It is a shame that the whole court wasn’t there.

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

This is how much of an act it was.<

Nikolai begins to strap on the wrisst band, Codi is confused.

CODI (CONFUSED)

You were serious?

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

I’m always serious when it comes too God.

CODI (CONFUSED)

She only pretended to be your friennd because of the trial!

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

If that was the case then why did sshe come after me once it was complete? Why did she insist on giving me this gift of friendship?

CODI (CONFUSED)

You can’t consider her to be a frieend!

Nikolai finishes and smiles to her..

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

What is wrong? Jealous?

Codi doesn’t know if he is kidding or not so she says nothing.

NIKOLAI (SARCASTIC)

Oh that is right, you didn’t me to be your Kalatir.

Codi wants to say something but thee shuttle begins to shake.

NIKOLAI (EXCITED)

Here we go again!

The shuttle continues to shake.

EXT. MINSK – FELINIA (OPTICAL) – LOONG SHOT

The ship continues to orbit the cloouds with the two Felinion Escorts. The Felinion shuttle leaves the Minsk and heads for the clouds.

INT. MINSK – CORRIDOR

This is the hallway just outside thhe Bay Room, Lena is standing her pacing as she waits. The hatch opens and she heads for it, she pretends she was on her way there all along. The hatch opens, Codi and Nikolai step into the hallway. Lena stops and tries to act surprised.

LENA (FALSE SURPRISED)

Commander, Exec. What a pleasant suurprise. I didn’t expect you here?

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

You didn’t?

Lena shakes her head.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

No, I was just on my way to the Bayy Room to check on some thermostats.

CODI (ANNOYED)

That is the worse attempt as a lie I have ever seen, Engineer Officer.

LENA (CONFUSED)

Huh?

CODI (ANNOYED)

You we left in charge, you wouldn’tt be running around checking some minor repairs. You came down here because you wanted to see how successfully we were with the mission.

Lena hangs her head.

LENA (FRUSTRATED)

Okay, I admit it.

Codi glares at Lena but then crackss a smile.

CODI (SMUG)

Your concern is most appreciated.

Lena looks up and sees Codi smile, she smiles back.

LENA (EXCITED)

Okay, I’m dying to know. How did yoou do?

Nikolai shrugs his shoulders.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

We have no idea.

Lena looks to Nikolai.

LENA (CONFUSED)

What do you mean you have no idea?<

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

Just that. They tested us on our looyalty and integrity. They are going to review our results and let us know. Until then we are in the dark just like you.

Lena sighs.

CODI (BLUNT)

Okay Engineer Officer, you got whatt you came for. Get back on the bridge and prepare us for Ultra-Light for home.

Lena salutes Codi.

LENA (OFFICIAL)

Yes ma’am!

Codi salutes back, turns and leavess. They watch her go. Once she is gone Nikolai starts down the hall but Codi looks to him.

CODI (STERN)

Not so fast, Exec.

Nikolai stops and looks to Codi.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

Ma’am?

Codi pauses to collect her thoughtss.

CODI (HONEST)

I was wrong Nikolai. I thought I neeeded another Felinion for a Kalatir, another Ban but you proved me wrong.

NIKOLAI (CONFUSED)

How so?

CODI (EXPLAINING)

A Kalatir is not so you are never aalone, they are a mentor and teacher as well. You learn from one another. I learned all I could from Ban so if you turned out to be exactly like her I could learn nothing more. While on the other paw I can learn a lot about you. If Ban was here she would have cursed out the court, gotten herself thrown into a dungeon and the rest of us ban for Felina. But not you, because of your understanding and forgiveness we have a chance to actually pull this off. I have learned a lot from you.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (HOPEFUL)

Are you trying to tell me you want to be my Kalatir?

Codi nods.

CODI (HONEST)

That is exactly what I ‘m trying too say. That is, if you will have me.

Nikolai smiles.

NIKOLAI (PLEASED)

I would very much like that.>

Codi and Nikolai looks at each otheer and smile. Then they turn and head down the hallway.

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

As the ship heads away from the planet the two escorts turn away and head back. Once they are clear the Ultra-Light thrusters on the back of the corvette light up and the ship speeds out of sight.

INT. MINSK - MESS HALL

The gang is all here. Golda and Ivan are arguing over something while Vladimir and Lena are listening to Nikolai telling a story, they are all in their old uniforms.

NIKOLAI (EXPLAINING)

And before I knew it there were 50 Prevaricates on me. The Princess fainted from despair but I glared them in the eye and smiled. You know how I love a good challenge.

Lena rolls her eyes but Vladimir looks to him intently.

VLADIMIR (CONCERNED)

So what did you do?

NIKOLAI (SMUG)

I held the Princess in one arm and fought them all off with my knife with the other. Needless to say there are 50 less Prevaricates in the universe.

Vladimir is impressed but Lena laughs.

LENA (LAUGHING)

Needless to say that is the biggest pile of Deposits I have ever heard.

Nikolai holds up his hand as if taking an oath.

NIKOLAI (HONEST)

I tell you it is the truth!

LENA (LAUGHING)

More like the 10 factor!

Vladimir is confused.

VLADIMIR (CONFUSED)

10 factor? What is that?

Lena settles down.

LENA (EXPLAINING)

It is the first thing they teach Execs. Multiply your victories by 10 and divide everyone else’s by 10.

Nikolai glares at Lena.

NIKOLAI (BLUNT)

Are you calling me a liar Engineer Officer?

Lena nods.

LENA (SMUG)

I know you are lying when you pull rank.

Lena and Nikolai glare at one another, Vladimir feels uncomfortable. Finally he backs off.

NIKOLAI (FRUSTRATED)

Okay, maybe I exaggerated a little bit.

Nikolai holds his hands a few inches apart to indicate this. Lena grabs then and spreads them far apart.

LENA (SMUG)