defiant: 101 - a dish best served cold

8/14/2019 Defiant: 101 - A Dish Best Served Cold

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DefiantEpisode 101A Dish Best Served ColdWritten By Adam HolmbergStory By Adam Holmberg & Elizabeth Baldwin

WHITE ON BLACK:

The quote appears, and Wilmette reads: This tale is true, and mine. It tellsHow the sea took me, and swept me backAnd forth in sorrow and fear and pain,Showed me suffering in a hundred ships,In a thousand ports, and in me. It tellsOf smashing surf where I sweated in the cold Of an anxious watch, perched in the bow As it dashed under cliffs. My feet were castIn icy bands, bound with frost,With frozen chains, and hardship groaned

Around my heart. Hunger toreAt my sea-weary soul. No man sheltered On the quiet fairness of earth can feelHow wretched I was, drifting through winter On an ice-cold sea, whirled in sorrow,Alone in a world blown clear of love.

- The Seafarer

FADE IN:

EXT. PACIFIC OCEAN

A small fleet of three tanker-like cargo vessels bobs on the surface ofthe water, the morning sun creating silver ripples on the wave crests.

SUPERIMPOSE: COMMERICAL FLEET, QUARTERMAINE SHIPPING INCORPORATEDNEW LINE: LICENSED TO UNITED EARTH OCEANS/ORGANIZATION.NEW LINE: EN ROUTE TO SAN FRANCISCONEW LINE: JANUARY 3, 2052

INT. TANKER BRIDGE

The simple, dirty structure that slightly resembles its 1990scounterparts, save for the fairly advanced navigational computersmounted under the line of windows facing towards the bow.

There are three men present, two of which are seated in front of thecomputers. Gregor Jones, the Helmsman, is sandy-haired and lanky in hismid-twenties. The Chief Engineer, Fritz Lange - a middle-aged Germanwith a fairly heavy accent - holds a battered metal cup of coffee.Langes posture indicates that he occupies the Navigators seat only torest his legs.

The third man is the thirty-eight year old Captain, Roger Fleisher. Hehas a slight beer belly and half a head of hair, most of which isturning to gray. He holds a chipped porcelain mug of green tea as he


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leans over the seated men, boredom playing on his face.

LANGEThink well get a vacation after this run boss?

FLEISHER(snorts)Think Satanll start crapping snowballs? You work for the company, youlearn two things fast. One - dont let them rent you out to the U.E.O.And two - eventually theyll make your life hell and lend you to theU.E.O. anyway under the threat of taking the Antarctica run.

JONES(flipping a couple switches)It has to be better than working for the U.E.O.

FLEISHER(draining his mug)Id rather haul weapons any day. You know how cold the bridge of theseboats can get in the arctic?

Suddenly there is a dull rumble from below and the cabin shakes as acouple alarms begin to blare. Fleisher grabs the back of Jones chair,dropping the chipped mug which shatters on the deckplates.

FLEISHERThe hell? Report!

Lange rises and moves to the Engineering console in the rear of theBridge and taps on a keyboard, the captain joining him.

LANGEStructural damage to the lower decks caused by an impact of some type.The watertight doors are sealed.

The sonar begins to beep lightly.

JONES(OS)We have a sonar contact at two oclock. Approaching at a fair speed.

LANGEA submarine!

FLEISHERBut whose?

EXT. OCEAN SURFACE

The surface is clear for a few seconds until a Ragnarok submarinebreaks the surface, its bow pointed toward the tanker. The sub isblack, slightly shorter and smaller than a seaQuest vessel but lookstwice as deadly.

INT. TANKER BRIDGE

Jones spots the contact out the window and points, Fleisher and Lange


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joining him near his station.

JONESWhat is that?

FLEISHER(grimly)Mr. Lange, call up the rest of the fleet, then put me on a generalchannel.

As Lange leans to use the radio, Jones turns to his captain.

JONESYou know what it is?

FLEISHERYou remember the incident around the old Ganges Colony a couple monthsago?

JONES

When the PMR showed up and the Defiant pushed them back?(incredulous)Thats them? Thats a Ragnarok?

FLEISHER(grimly nodding)And for some reason it has come for us.

JONESCan we surrender?

FLEISHERThats what Im going to try, for all the good it will do us.

JONES(slight panic)And what if they dont accept?

FLEISHER(quietly)Then God help us.

EXT. DEFIANT

The seaQuest class submarine occupies the length of the cement andsteel Berth One. We move in towards the submarine head on, coming to astop right outside the armored Bridge Dome.

INT. WILMETTES OFFICE

Captain James Wilmette is seated behind his desk, reading one of manystacked reports, his Maryland mug full of cold, ignored coffee. Hold onhim for a moment as the intercom beeps.

WILMETTE(not looking up as he presses the button)Yes?


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Lt. Serina Martin, Defiant 's 23 year old Chief of Communicationsreports:

MARTIN(filtered)Sir, were receiving a signal from Admiral Easton. He said to turn onWNN.

WILMETTE(sitting up)Patch WNN to my office viewer.

MARTIN(filtered)Aye sir.

After a few seconds the screen comes to life, reflected on Wilmettesface.

CORREY(OS). . .Ever since the war the U.E.O. has transported weapons in secret oncivilian transports and cargo vessels.

ANGLE ON VIEWER

The Leader of the Party For Macronesian Rebirth, General Lee Correy, ison the vidcast. Even though it's a recorded transmission, we cant helpbut feel Correy's eyes bore into us as he speaks.

CORREYIts not only a violation of their treaties with three of their allies,but it is also the willful endangerment of civilians. We regret thatthose innocent men had to die to expose this heinous action, but thefamilies can at least take stock in the fact that they died for thegood cause of exposing the U.E.O.s treachery. By putting these weaponson their contracted civilian transports, the U.E.O. is putting its owncitizens in the line of fire.

Correy pauses for a moment, looking a bit regretful and yet no lessdangerous. He sets aside a paper in front of him and straightens hisuniform before continuing.

CORREYThe Party for Macronesian Rebirth was formed to put down the U.E.O.streachery, and that is what we intend to do. After our first defeat at

the hands of James Wilmette and the fleet he commanded, we went away tolick our wounds and rebuild. Our period of rest is over. As of today,for crimes committed against the Macronesian Alliance and its lawfulPresident, Alexander Bourne, we declare war on the United EarthOceans/Organization.

END TEASER

FADE TO OPENING CREDITS


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ACT ONE

FADE IN:


James Wilmette sits behind his desk, thunderstruck. WNN plays in thebackground for a few seconds before he comes to life.

WNN ANCHOR(OS)This message was received by all news organizations. . .

WILMETTE(tapping the intercom)Wilmette to Communications. Get me Admiral Easton.

MARTIN(filtered)Hes been holding for you, sir.

WILMETTEPut him on.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

The seal of U.E.O. Pearl Harbor Base replaces the vidcast, and the faceof Admiral George Easton, Commander-and-Chief U.E.O. Pacific NavalOperations appears after the seal. The admiral is in his early sixtieswith white hair and a gruff voice.

INTERCUT AS NECESSARY

EASTONDid you see the message?

Wilmette rises, moves in front of his desk and straightens his uniform.

WILMETTEYes sir. Is he serious?

EASTONIm afraid so. They sunk three cargo ships this morning. Thirty eightmen died. Fortunately, thats a third of what it could have been. Inever thought Id be pleased about budget cuts.

WILMETTE

Unfortunately, not all our ships are understaffed because of cutbacks.(a hesitant beat)Is what he said true?

Easton folds his hands and looks down at his desk before answering.

EASTON(looking Wilmette in the eyes)I will trust you to hold this in confidence.


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WILMETTEOf course.

EASTONThe disk with that message came across my desk this morning about anhour before the ships were sunk. Of course after viewing it Iimmediately called SecGen Hitchcock, and she. . .confirmed thateverything Correy said about the transport of weapons is true.

WILMETTEI thought as much. It isnt like Correy to lie in a manner that is soprovable.(a chuckle)The ironic thing is, personally, I dont have a problem with it, butIm going to have to act as if its so horrible. Politics - dont youlove it?

EASTONCivilians rarely fully understand what must be done to win a war. Itwas done in the latter part of the Mac war - you knew that - and

Hitchcock adapted it again for the Carolinian War. Didnt see why notas long as the crews doing the transports was told. They were and evengiven a bonus. Everyone kept quiet about it.

WILMETTEBut now the PMR is using it to win themselves favor. It wont work, butyou cant fault Correy for trying, and he did send a double message.

EASTONHell hit civilians if he can get away with it.

WILMETTEAnd hes seriously damaged our supply of weapons. If he turns up theheat, well have to send our weapons on our transports, which arealready vulnerable to him and those damned Ragnaroks of his. Thecompanies wont do it now - theyd be boycotted if they tried. In thePR department, weve won this round by virtue that our people have tosupport us or they put themselves at risk. Very tidy.

EASTONWhich leads me into your mission. Tidying up.(Easton picks up a file, skims through it)Ill transmit the file when were though. Youre to investigate theattack and clean up. Cleaning up is defined by finding the wrecks ofthe cargo ships and disintegrating them. Hitchcock wants no evidenceleft.

WILMETTEShes going to pull the weapons, pay off the companies, and destroy theevidence, all the while discrediting Correy.(Wilmette nods to himself)Katie Hitchcock has more balls than I gave her credit for.

EASTONYou approve?

WILMETTE


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George, I think by now you would have realized that winning half thebattle is making them look bad and us look good. We arent the onlygovernment on the planet, no matter how we try to act.

EASTONI know. Its just. . .

WILMETTE(nodding)It gives you a bad taste sometimes. Me too, but if fighting dirty isthe way to win, Ill do it anytime, as long as it isnt too dirty.Remember what I said when the PMR popped up the first time?

EASTON(quoting)Great men change history all the time.

WILMETTE(finishing)Thats how they become great. Thats the one.

(glancing at the clock on his desk)You should send me that file so I can look it over. My usual morningstaff meeting is in thirty minutes.

EASTONWill do. Call me if you have any questions.

WILMETTEOf course.

EASTONEaston out.

The Pearl Harbor seal comes up again, then disappears as the screenclicks off.

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette strides onto the Bridge. All are present except for Lt.Commander Barry Piper, the Chief Engineer. Commander John Peck sits inthe command chair, and Lt. Commander Lauren Alridge, the Chief ofOperations sits to Pecks left in the Ops position. Wilmette stops atPeck's side.

PECKNew orders?

WILMETTEThey should be coming in now.

PECKYou want the seat?

WILMETTE(shaking his head)Send the file into my office, then come in. We need to talk.


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PECKIs it bad?

WILMETTEThe PMR.(off his puzzled look)Cant tell yet. Come in and well look at the file.

Wilmette turns and makes his way back to his office as Peck looks on.Finally the commander turns.

PECKLt. Martin?

MARTINSir?

PECKWe should be receiving new orders.

MARTIN(checking her readings)Yes sir. Coming in now.

PECKWhen the file has downloaded, send it into the Captains Office.

MARTINAye sir.

Alridge turns from her console, looking thoughtful.

ALRIDGEIs it me or did he seem more intense than usual?

PECK(sighing)It isnt you. He said the PMR is causing trouble.

ALRIDGEThe past might be catching up with him.

PECK(defensive)What do you mean?

ALRIDGE

Im not exactly his biggest fan, but even I recognize he might havetrouble going up against Correy again. You were there two months ago.He wasnt exactly himself.

PECK(slightly worried)No, he wasnt.(thoughtful)Then again, it might do him some good to face them again. Let him venta little of what has built up.


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ALRIDGEIn that case, we have to watch him.(off his look)A little revenge is not necessarily bad. But someone like him - someonewho is so unbelievably trapped by guilt - might just push it a littletoo far, and he might just take us with him.

Peck is silent, though the look on his face clearly shows hes afraidshes right.

INT. MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM

A long room with walls covered by paintings, mostly of various U.E.O.vessels. Theres one of the Maryland on the end facing towards thecaptains seat, behind which is a large, wall-mounted viewer, currentlyturned off. Under the viewer is a tall cylinder that contains thecircuitry for the Holographic Projection System.

To the right of the captain's seat sits Peck, Piper, and the 24 year

old blonde Weapons officer, Lt. Carolyn Rusch. On the left is Alridge,Martin, and the Helmsman, Lt. Thomas Wong. Two seats at the end of eachside sit empty, as does the seat opposite the captain's chair. A light,ad lib chatter commences as the door swings open to admit Wilmette.He's carrying a few file folders, and his Maryland mug is full offresh, hot coffee.

WILMETTE(taking his seat)O.K. - we have new orders as of 1030. It seems the PMR has decided tostart making trouble for us, and theyve set off quite a touchysituation. Information is sketchy right now, but Ill give you what weknow.

ALRIDGE(under her breath)Cant be much.

Everyone freezes. Martin snickers a little, but quickly covers it.

WILMETTE(his gaze snapping up)Excuse me?

ALRIDGE(innocent)I was just saying that the U.E.O. doesnt have much so far on the PMRs

latest activities, so I would imagine that we dont have muchintelligence on them right now.

WILMETTE(taking the high ground)You would be correct.

Wilmette inserts a small data chip into a slot on the tabletop andpresses a button beside it.


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ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN

The viewer behind Wilmette displays a map of the area where the attackon the commercial fleet occurred. A red dot appears on a vector towardsthree black ones, and after a few seconds the black dots disappear.

WILMETTE(OS)From what we know, the PMR vessels attacked this fleet, licensed to theU.E.O., which was en route to San Francisco. We believed that the PMRforce came from the northeast. One of the ships got off a messagebefore it exploded.

PECKExploded?

WILMETTE(caught off guard for a moment, though quickly recovering)Thats what we believe.

(a beat)This is the recorded message, received by the Dresden in passing.

Wilmette presses a button, and a slightly distorted recording of afrantic becomes audible over the Main Conference Room speakers.

FLEISHER(filtered)This is the Persimmons , licensed to the U.E.O. care of QuartermaineShipping! We are under attack by an unknown submarine! Repeat, underattack by an unknown. . .wait! Torpedoes in the water! Torpedoes in thewater. My God, were dead! Were all dead!

The transmission cuts off with a sudden boom similar to an explosionand then static. Wilmette solemnly presses the button as the assembledare silent for a moment.

ALRIDGEWhat kind of convoy was attacked? It was licensed to us, you said?

WILMETTEIt was a small convoy of three Valdez Class General Transport Tankers.No weapons. Fortunately there was a minimal crew aboard for thismission, as it was top secret.

PECK(quietly)

The cargo - was it weapons?

WILMETTE(tense - he doesnt like keeping information, especially of thisnature, from his crew)The U.E.O. has not officially released the nature of the cargo, thoughthe PMR has claimed that it was ordinance.

PECK(angry)


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What the hell is the U.E.O. doing putting weapons on civiliantransports?

WILMETTE(fiery)Mr. Peck! Thats enough!(turns, takes a deep breath)The point of this conference is not to discuss the nature of the cargodestroyed by the PMR vessels.

PIPER(OS, quiet)Then what is the point, sir?

Everyone is surprised - they were concentrating on the fight betweenWilmette and Peck. Wilmette snaps his attention back to the briefing.

WILMETTEWere to clean up. The cargo on the vessels, if any remains, might be arisk to plant and animal life in the region of the ocean they went down

in. So, we are to locate the remains of the vessels and clean up.

RUSCHWhat kind of clean up are we talking about?

WILMETTEYoure the Weapons officer. How would you clean up after three Valdezclass ships?

RUSCHWith a concentrated torpedo spread, in certain weak areas of the ship.(sly)I assume you have been briefed on those.

WILMETTE(picking up on the code)I have. When the time comes, Ill give you all the necessaryinformation I can.

RUSCH(a slight nod)As I had expected, sir.

ALRIDGE(leaning forward)Does the U.E.O. know what its going to do about the PMR?

WILMETTEAdmiral Easton didnt say anything about it to me, but I got thefeeling that the matter is still being looked into.

Alridge opens her mouth to speak again, but Wilmette cuts her off.

WILMTTEIf I had to predict, Id guess theyll do the same thing they did in2045 - establish a police action to curb the piracy of the PMR, orsomething similar.


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MARTINCant we declare war? They did hit civilians after all.

PECKYou declare war against governments. The PMR is not a government - itsa pirate organization. As such, the U.E.O. can establish a fleet tolead a police action against them. As the captain said, its what wedid before.

ALRIDGEAnd look how it turned out.

There is a moment of silence as this sinks in. Rusch frowns deeply atAlridge. Wilmette says nothing - she is right.

WILMETTE(quiet, sincere)This ship will most likely lead the fight, but I give you all my wordthat I will not allow history to repeat itself. We all have a right to

one big mistake, and God knows I pay for mine every night.

PIPERWe all have complete faith in you, sir.

Wilmette knows that is a lie, but he smiles sincerely at Piper,thankful for the unsaid compliment.

WILMETTEThank you Mr. Piper. Any more questions?(he scans the table)Then well move on to our regular business. . .

EXT. MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM

The conference is over, and the door swings open to allow Piper to walkthrough. After him, Alridge and Rusch emerge, walking side-by-side.

ALRIDGEInteresting mission we have - cleaning up the U.E.O.s dirty work.

RUSCH(shrugs)It gives us a paycheck, at least. If it helps make sure the bad guysdont win, does it matter?

Rusch looks slightly distracted, which Alridge notices.

ALRIDGEWhats bugging you?

RUSCH(stops, slightly angry)Cant you give him a chance?

ALRIDGEWilmette?


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(Rusch nods off screen)Why should I? He admits hes guilty.

RUSCHHe pays for everything hes done every night! He will until he dies,and no matter how much everybody else hates him, they dont let itinterfere with their work!

ALRIDGE(casual)It doesnt interfere with my work.

RUSCHHow can it not? You antagonize him every chance you get! Do you thinkhe needs you to remind him of what he did?

Alridges expression darkens as she expels an angry breath.

ALRIDGEHe killed Alison!!! HE KILLED HER!!!

RUSCHHe didnt push the button!

ALRIDGEBecause of him my sister is dead. Until we blew up the wreckage tryingto kill Correy, she was entombed in the Maryland , too irradiated toeven get close to. What am I supposed to do?

RUSCHGive him a chance.

ALRIDGE(her anger abating)I cant. I cannot take the chance that he will forget what he has done.Im sorry if that upsets you.

Before Rusch can say anything, Alridge strides off, her eyes slightlywet, leaving Rusch disappointed and torn.


Wilmette is seated behind his desk as Peck hands him a report.

WILMETTEIm sorry if you are unhappy with this mission.

PECKTransporting weapons on commercial vessels is wrong. It puts civiliansin the line of fire.

WILMETTE(shrugging)Ive never had any problem with it, as long as it stayed secret. Nowthat its out in the open, the civilians do become far too temptingtargets. Unfortunately, we lose a lot of ground. They can count U.E.O.weapons transports, but the number of tankers and cargo vessels on the


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water makes picking out a weapons carrier so much harder.(slams his fist on the desk, his temper suddenly flaring)The bastard beat us!!!

PECK(calm)He won the battle. The war is far from over.

Wilmette regains his control, rises and begins to pace.

WILMETTEThey close the vise more and more - make it so much harder to beatthem. We may turn this into a PR victory, and those are importantenough, but we still need all the weapons we can get to face thoseRagnaroks. The PMR is making them stronger and stronger every time weencounter one. What will they be like in a year? Weve had enoughtrouble beating them as they are.

PECKWe will beat them though. We did before.

(a smile)You did.

WILMETTEAnd I lost my ship in the process.

PECKAs you said, were all entitled to one mistake.

WILMETTEThis will not end in another one. We will find these people and huntthem down. Make them pay for all that they have done. But, Im gettingahead of everything. We havent even completed our mission yet.

PECKAll long roads start with a single step, sir.

WILMETTEOliver Hudson said that.

PECKAt the beginning of the Macronesian War, right after we lost theseaQuest.

WILMETTEHe was a good man. Knew what had to be done and wasnt afraid to do it.

PECKNo matter the cost.

Wilmette is silent for a moment, then he lifts his head and smiles.

WILMETTENo matter the cost.(a chuckle)Were getting philosophical today.


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PECK(shrugs)It rubs off, I guess. Youre more intense today than usual.

WILMETTEYou know Correy fired the shots that destroyed the Maryland ? He pushedthe button.

PECK(a nod)I was there when he admitted that to you.

WILMETTEI have a score to settle with Correy. Some might call it revenge, but Icall it justice. His people killed a lot of our people, but hedestroyed my ship and killed most of my crew. He pushed the button thatended over a thousand lives - a thousand people that suffer from mymistake.

PECK

Mistake?

WILMETTEI underestimated Correy. Not only did I think he wouldnt reach GangesColony in time - I also figured that if he did he wouldnt blow thereactor. He took a thousand lives to prove me wrong.(a heavy beat)If I do this, it wont be for the U.E.O. Itll be for the Maryland , andGod help anyone who gets in my way.

END ACT ONE

ACT TWO

FADE IN:

EXT. DEFIANT

The Defiant is slowing to a halt under the dark water.

INT. BRIDGE

Everyone in the Bridge crew should be at their correct posts. Pan overthe Bridge, beginning at the starboard Helm Pod where Wong sits overthe raised row of stations and to the Command Plex where Wilmette sits,his hand under his chin as he studies his station screen.

ALRIDGEThe wrecks seem to be at a depth of about eight thousand feet. Theyrepositioned in a rough triangle which is consistent with how they weresunk.

CLOSE ON ALRIDGES DISPLAY

Three wrecks, indeed in an almost-recognizable triangle, arehighlighted in red. The one on the far left is simply a field of debris.


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ALRIDGE(OS)The ship at coordinates 142 mark 4 seems to have blown outward as ithit the bottom. Im only registering a field of debris at its location.

BACK TO ALRIDGE

She looks up, glances back at Wilmette.

ALRIDGELooks to be a chicken shoot.

PECKA quiet start to a very bloody war.(he frowns, corrects himself)Sorry - conflict.

WILMETTEMs. Rusch - are we correct?

RUSCH(examines the readings for herself, thinking)There are a lot of ways to approach this, but the simplest would be anarrow torpedo spread at the two intact wrecks and a broader one at thedebris field.(meeting Wilmettes gaze)Can we get a better scan of the wrecks? Try to determine where theweapons might be?

ALRIDGEIt might be possible. The Graphica Array can get some pretty detailedpictures of whatever you point the SoftScan sensors at, though it cantdetect deactivated weapons.

RUSCHIf it can give me a good hull comp map, I should be able to figure outthe rest.

PECK(puzzled)You can figure out the location of weapons based on hull composition?

RUSCHI can make a pretty good guess. Though these ships werent designed tocarry weapons, its standard procedure to reinforce the weapons storagearea when they get drafted for ordinance duty. Locate that and youvegot where the weapons are probably stored.

PECK(impressed)Not bad.

WONGSir, whats the blast radius going to be when you detonate the weapons?

Wilmette frowns, rises from his seat, and rubs his eyes as he walks tothe head of the Command Plex, his gaze falling upon everyone on his


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Bridge as he speaks.

WILMETTE(formally)O.K. people. The cargo were searching for has not been officiallyidentified, and as such it is inappropriate to speculate on its nature.(more casual)I dont like it anymore than you do, but we have a Public Relationsbattle to win as well as a military one. Correy will pull out all thestops, and we have to play along. The U.E.O. has been through two warsand one police action in the past ten years. This little spat isntgoing to be all that popular, and every percentage point for us in theapproval rating is going to make a world difference.(a pause as he lets this sink in)Now, lets get this mission over with and get on to some real work.

Wilmette moves to take his seat again when a quiet beeping sounds atMartins station.

MARTIN

Sir? Were getting a faint signal from. . .(presses a few buttons, examines her screen)About five klicks from here.

WILMETTETags?

MARTINYes sir. Lifeboat tags.

WILMETTE(meeting Pecks gaze)Put it on.

PECK(quietly, almost under his breath)Could any of them have survived?

MARTINI can hardly make any of the message out. Let me do a little work on it.

WILMETTE(nods; then, to Peck, softly)Its possible. Wed have a monster of a PR victory if someone did.

PECK(frowning)

I was thinking of their families.

WILMETTE(regarding him, a bit angry)I was too, even if I didnt say it. Do you think I wouldnt?

PECK(abashed)No sir.


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MARTINIm finally getting a weak audio signal from the lifeboat, sir. I hadto boost our receiver to even be able to make any of it out.

WILMETTEOn speakers.

The signal is choppy, the quality poor. However, we can detect the fearin the mans voice.

MAN(filtered)This is. . .of. . .Quarterm. . .ipping. . .ny. Our. . .ip was. . .nk.Requ. . .t as. . .tance.

The radio channel fades out in a burst of static and Wilmette spins,striding back to his seat. Taking it, he taps a few buttons, givingcommands and asking questions as he goes.

WILMETTE

Ms. Alridge, what are you reading?

ALRIDGEThe signal seems like an authentic distress call. Its on theQuartermaine frequency and encoded with their markers. Its at aposition five point four klicks from us.

PECKClose enough for an EVA rescue.

WILMETTE(regarding him)You dont think we should go?

PECKId like to get these freighters blown. Get the dirty part of themission cleaned up.

WILMETTE(under his breath)Youre not alone.(to Alridge)John, Lauren, get down to Docking Bay Three and prep a team of threeDragonflies and a Phantom escort.

ALRIDGEThree?

WILMETTE(to both)We dont know how many survivors there might be - it would be good tobe prepared.(to Alridge)I want you to take a squadron of Phantoms to provide cover. If thereare any Ragnaroks or Valhallas in the area, distract them, but dont gohead to head.


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ALRIDGE(flippant)I wont. Dont want to join my sister just yet.

Wilmette flinches but quickly recovers, giving Peck a nod.

WILMETTEWhen youre done, signal and well come get you.

PECKWill you have Martin send Doc Kindel to the bay?

WILMETTE(shaking Pecks hand)Done. Godspeed and good luck.

Peck and Alridge turn and move toward the open clamshell doors. Beforeexiting, Peck turns, giving Wilmette a sly grin.

PECK

Hey, what can go wrong? If we find a Ragnarok, well just tell themwere with the postal service.

Wilmette chuckles as Peck turns to follow Alridge off screen.

INT. CENTRAL CORRIDOR

With Alridge in the lead, she and Peck emerge from the ladder into theCentral Corridor, striding aft towards the Docking Bays. The deck ismostly clear, and they quickly pass a couple lieutenants who they nodat.

ALRIDGEWhat do you see in him?

PECKWho?

ALRIDGEThe captain?

PECK(shrugging)Hes a good man and a fair captain. Hell, Im not sure Ive servedunder anyone finer.(regarding Alridge)I dont think any answer I give will satisfy you.

ALRIDGEI just dont see it. I mean, yes he is on this crusade to redeemhimself and try to atone for all the people he got killed, but heshould have been thrown out on his ear.

Alridge and Peck descend another ladder, not missing a beat.

INT. DECK FOUR


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Alridge and Peck continue their journey towards the middle of the ship.

PECKThats one theory.(Alridge exhales)Look Lauren, I sympathize. From what youve told me, Id like Alison alot. . .

ALRIDGEAnd shed like you a lot.

PECKBut, shes dead and you hate the captain.

ALRIDGEHe got her killed!

PECKHe made a mistake, and he wasnt the one who pushed the button. Correydid. If he could go back in time and choose differently, he would in a

second. But he cant, so all you can do is accept his apology.

ALRIDGEI could, but I dont and I wont.

Before Peck can respond, the two officers arrive at a row of heavydoors, three on each side of the deck, spaced about twenty feet apartfrom each other on either side.

Alridge stops as Peck presses a sequence into the panel next to thedoors and they doors slide open.

ALRIDGEGood luck John.

PECKYou too.

Alridge turns around, moving for the Fighter Launch tubes as Peckenters the bay.

INT. DOCKING BAY THREE

Peck enters the large bay which is separated into three sections nearerto the hull. These sections, which are thick, armored spheres, containthe bubbles in which the Dragonflies are kept. Peck veers off towardthe set of open doors at his extreme left and enters.

INT. DOCKING BAY THREE - DRAGONFLY BAY

The bay is spherical, the Dragonfly shuttle planted in the middle. Thewalls of the bay are pockmarked with small circular openings throughwhich water flows in when the bay is flooded, and the Dragonfly faces alarge iris door which leads to the main door of Docking Bay Three.

Doctor Rance Kindel stands surrounded by a few medical technicians nearthe open hatch of the Dragonfly, reading a clipboard. The doctor, in


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his early forties, wears a Defiant medical jacket and standard blueuniform pants. When he speaks, it is with a hint of measured impatienceand reserved tolerance.

KINDELCommander Peck, I was beginning to wonder if you were going to leave mealone with cleanup duty.

PECKWere you briefed on our mission?

KINDEL(deeply sarcastic and almost. . .weary)I was plucked from my Medbay with an urgent call that I was needed inDocking Bay Three. I could guess that my services were required for amission outside of the confines of this vessel of murder and violence,so I brought my team down and they have loaded supplies into each ofthe three Dragonflies.(tucking the clipboard under his arm)I assume were going to be boarding someone elses vessel, otherwise I

would be saddened to find my day was ruined by missing this charmingdiversion.

PECK(gesturing toward the Dragonfly, following Kindel through the door)Thats correct.

INT. DRAGONFLY

The spacious craft is already cramped with supplies. Peck stands byKindel as the doctor straps himself into the seat nearest the ControlRoom.

PECK(continued)We found a lifeboat we believe to be from one of the downed cargovessels. Got a transmission from it, and we believe there are a fewcrew members left aboard.(a grim pause)Or, at least there were.

KINDEL(hard)Then wed better get going.

Peck gives him a respectful nod and turns, entering the Control Room.

INT. DRAGONFLY CONTROL ROOM

Peck takes the right pilots seat in the airplane cockpit-like room,slapping a pair of earphones on his head, adjusting the attatchedmicrophone.

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette is seated in his chair as Pecks voice comes over the comm.


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PECK(filtered)Searchlight One to Tower.

WILMETTETower here.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck flips switches, going over the pre-launch checklist.

PECKTower, all Searchlights read green. Were ready for launch.

WILMETTE(filtered)Your escort also reads green. Their call sign is Foghorn.

PECKFoghorn?

INT. BRIDGE

We look past Wilmette at Piper who grins at the captain.

WILMETTE(with a smile)Best we could do on short notice.(serious)Be careful, and bring that crew back.

PECK(filtered)Will do. See you in a bit.

Wilmette turns to regard Ensign Bauer, the young woman seated atOperations - a pretty brunette in her early twenties.

WILMETTEEnsign Bauer, flood Docking Bay Three.

INT. DOCKING BAY THREE - DRAGONFLY BAY

Water gushes through the circular ports in the walls, submerging thefloor at a rapid rate.

INT. BRIDGE

Bauer checks her display as she reports.

BAUERAll berths in Docking Bay Three flooded.

WILMETTEOpen bay doors and clear the Dragonflies for departure.

Bauer presses a few buttons, scanning the screen.


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BAUERDragonflies cleared and bay doors open.

EXT. DEFIANT

One by one, the Dragonflies emerge from the open porthole of DockingBay Three, coming to a stop in a rough line near the stationarysubmarine.

BAUER(VO)Dragonflies clear.

WILMETTE(VO)Launch Phantoms.

ANGLE ON STARBOARD LAUNCH TUBES

Wide shot of a row of eight circular doors just forward of the dockingbays. The five nearest the Docking Bay One iris open to allow fivePhantoms to exit at full speed. Each fighter pulls away, moving for theDragonflies.

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette watches the fighters on the viewer, comparing what he seeswith his console screen.

BAUER(OS)Phantoms away. They have formed up on the Dragonflies and the group isheading for the lifeboat coordinates.

WILMETTEVery good. One mission well on its way.(rising from his seat, walking towards the Weapons station)Ms. Rusch, do you have the firing solutions for the cargo vessels yet?

Ruschs gaze is focused intently on her console, and she isfrustratedly looking over scans as she speaks.

RUSCHFor the first two, yes sir. The wreckage at 142 mark 2 is a differentstory.

WILMETTEExplain.

RUSCH(looking up from her console)The ship imploded when it hit. While our sensors are good, they stillcant seem to pinpoint the. . .cargo.

WILMETTEYou cant just fire a wide barrage of torpedoes?


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RUSCHThats what I was intending, but the wreckage is spread out over aquarter mile, and Id rather not use half our torpedoes trying to hitit.

WILMETTEGood point. Should we get closer?

RUSCHUnless Brittany can give me better scans from here, yes sir.

Bauer looks up at Rusch and shakes her head, and Wilmette moves back tohis seat.

WILMETTEMr. Wong, drop us to a depth of. . .

BAUERSeventeen hundred feet.

WILMETTEYou heard the lady.

WONGYes sir. Quarter speed ahead, thirty degree down angle.

EXT. DEFIANT

The submarine begins to slowly move forward, its bow gently listing asit begins a slow plunge.

WONG(VO)Well arrive at the ordered depth in four minutes, eight seconds.

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette glances at Rusch, then turns his gaze to the main viewer.

WILMETTEMs. Bauer, position of Searchlight?

BAUEREight minutes to target.

WILMETTE

No sensor contacts?

BAUER(shaking her head)No sir. It looks like our luck is holding out.

RUSCHYes, but for how long?

Wilmettes face is a determined yet tense mask - he doesnt know.


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INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck sits back in his seat, his posture relaxed yet his eyes strangelyalert. Behind him, hung in the doorway to the main cabin, is a smallcurtain in U.E.O. blue. The curtain opens to admit Kindel, who stillcarries his clipboard and a blue ink pen.

PECK(jokingly, with a slight smile)Ive already had my checkup for this month Doc.

KINDEL(taking the co-pilots seat)Usually I would appreciate your banter, but Im curious about ourlittle mission.

PECKCurious about what? Its a simple extraction.

KINDELYou of all people should know that no mission is just that simple. Whatif these people are not who they seem?

PECK(a shrug)We have a considerable weapons stash aboard.

KINDEL(slightly impatient)I mean, why is the Defiant staying behind?

PECK(a sigh)If you have a problem with risking your life, you should have neverjoined the U.E.O. Risking our lives is part of the job description.

KINDELBut suicide is not. Did our great captain ever consider that this wholemission might be a ruse and that there might be a Ragnarok waiting forus at that lifeboat.

PECKI'm sure he did.(beat)Even though the scans didn't turn up anything, he did send an armedescort.

KINDEL(sits back in the chair, begins scribbling on the clipboard)Typical U.E.O. If it doesnt cooperate, blow it up.

PECKIf I may ask Doc, whats your problem? Youve been Defiant s CMO fourmonths and Ive never heard you say one good word about the ship.

KINDEL


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(continuing his writing on the clipboard)If I may speak freely. . .

PECKIsnt that what I asked?

Kindel puts his pen down and studies Peck a moment before responding.Peck doesn't look at him, keeping his eyes on where he's going. After agood thirty seconds, the doctor finally speaks.

KINDELMy problem isnt the Defiant .(beat)Ive been in the U.E.O. for. . .well, almost as long as the captain.When I signed up, I was a young doctor with an idealized vision of whatthe world could be, courtesy the U.E.O. propaganda machine. I wanted todo some good - help people and save lives. Two wars have gone by and alot of great people have died.

Peck glances at Kindel as the latter picks up his pen again. He holds

the pen right over the paper, but he doesn't write anything.

PECKWe made the world a better place. Would you rather have a Pacificcontrolled by Alexander Bourne or Eileen Ross?

KINDELThe world is no better than it was to begin with. We've always hadstrong defenses and people willing to fight for freedom, and the U.E.O.has united a lot of people.(beat)Sure, we stopped two dictators, but we've done a horrible job of seeingthat no one replaces them.

Peck is silent - he cannot argue with this. Kindel writes somethingelse on his clipboard, and, after a moment Peck breaks the silence bychanging the subject.

PECKHow do you think the captain will take this?

KINDELWell, this is the first command Ive had to use my psychology degreeon, but Id say well have to watch him. Hell want revenge, and thatcan be a powerful force. It can make men - even good men like thecaptain - do things that they ordinarily would have sense to avoid.

Before Peck can respond, a light beeping becomes audible and Peck leansforward, pressing buttons and checking screens. Kindel also leansforward, setting his clipboard on the floor.

KINDEL(puzzled)I thought we were still a ways out from our destination.

PECK(grim)


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We are.(Peck gestures out the window)Sensor contact at one oclock.(he punches a couple buttons under the scanner screen, frowning as thehigh resolution image appears)Crap.

KINDELHostiles?

PECKAffirmative.(punching the communications button, talking into his headset)Searchlight to Foghorn.

INT. PHANTOM

Alridge is seated in the cockpit, also frowning at her readings.

ALRIDGE

Foghorn here.(she punches a button)Are you scrambled?

There is a pause before Peck replies.

PECK(filtered)Better than eggs. You reading that?

ALRIDGEUnfortunately. A Ragnarok and two Valhallas.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Kindels eyes are glued to the console, his face filled with horror.Peck is grim but focused.

PECKTheyre about four minutes away. Do you think theyve seen us?

INT. PHANTOM

ALRIDGEDefinitely. Either that, or its a coincidence that theyre headedstraight for us.

PECK(filtered)You have a plan?

ALRIDGEI might. Ive never gone one-on-one with a ship as big and well armedas a Ragnarok in a fighter. It was something I was hoping to avoid.

INT. DRAGONFLY


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PECKWell have to try and dodge them. Ill call Defiant while you prepare aplan.

ALRIDGE(filtered)You want anything specific?

PECKJust dont get us killed. Searchlight out.

Pecks gaze meets Kindels for a second before he presses the switch toradio Defiant .

END ACT TWO

ACT THREE

FADE IN:

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette is standing behind the Command Plex, about halfway between hischair and the Navigation Table, looking over a report on a clipboard.As he signs the report and hands it back to the ensign that brought it,Bauer turns toward him, never taking her eyes off her console.

BAUERSir, Im getting a sensor contact about three klicks south/southwest.About four minutes from Searchlight.

Wilmettes lips form a frown as he steps towards Bauer, leaning overher shoulder as she cycles through a number of different scans.

WILMETTECan you get a profile?

BAUERTrying sir.(she scowls, typing a sequence on the keyboard)I can get a vague shape which comes in as an elongated oval, but thatsbecause of the interference.

WILMETTEWhat kind of interference?

BAUER

Electromagnetic, I think.

WILMETTE(short)You think?

BAUER(apologetic)Im sorry, sir. The instruments cant type it.


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Wilmette realizes he was too harsh, and he pats her shoulderreassuringly.

WILMETTECan you break through and get me anything?

BAUER(thoughtful)Well, maybe I can. . .

Martin leans over her station, cutting Bauer off.

MARTINCaptain, were getting a transmission from Commander Peck on anemergency channel. Its scrambled.

WILMETTE(taking his seat)On screen.

Peck appears on the main viewer, sweat collecting on his brow.

PECK(filtered)Searchlight to Tower. We have a problem.

WILMETTE(anticipating)Enemy contact. PECK(surprised)Yes sir.

WILMETTEWe detected a contact about four minutes from your position, thoughsome kind of interference has prevented us from identifying it.

PECKIts a Ragnarok, and there are three Valhallas right behind it. Foghornis coming up with a plan to dodge them for the time being, but we needto get to that lifeboat as soon as possible. Doc Kindel reminded methat they might not have that much air left.

WILMETTEThats an affirmative.(looks toward Wong)

Helm, lay in a course for Mr. Pecks position, maximum speed.

WONG(OS)Yes sir. ETA twenty one minutes.

WILMETTEWere on our way. Can you hold out until we arrive?

PECK


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(sighing, rubbing his eyes)We dont have a choice.(meeting Wilmettes gaze)I think we can make it.

WILMETTEI dont doubt it. Good luck. Tower out.

The screen goes dead and Wilmette glances around the Bridge. He meetsPipers supportive gaze and Ruschs worried eyes. Finally, he leansforward, his face flooded with grim determination. Bauer turns toregard him.

BAUERTheyll be just fine, sir. Theyre both excellent officers.

WILMETTEI know Ms. Bauer. Youve only been on this ship a month, so youwouldnt understand.

BAUER(abashed)Yes sir.

WILMETTE(leaning back in his seat, he seemingly doesnt notice Bauersdiscomfort)Sound General Quarters.(he rises as the alarm goes off and Martin broadcasts the alert overthe intercom)Ill be in my office. Ms. Bauer, can you handle the command seat?

BAUER(swallowing nervously)I. . .I think so sir.

WILMETTEVery good. Call me when were five minutes out or if theres any changein the situation.

BAUER(not moving, still shell shocked)Aye sir.

Wilmette strides off the Bridge and Bauer sits at her seat, completelymotionless. Off screen Piper quietly clears his throat and her eyesdart up.

BAUERYes sir?

PIPER(more than a hint of amusement in his eye)Usually the officer in charge takes the command chair.

Bauer slowly rises, then plunks down in Wilmettes chair.


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BAUER(blushing)Yes sir. Sorry sir.

PIPERYou havent quite figured him out yet, have you?

BAUERNo sir. I seem to keep making him mad.

PIPERYou dont make him mad.(leaning on his station console, gesturing)Hes a very focused, very blunt man. He is also a man of deep feelingthat cares about each of his crew. He was right - you misunderstoodhim, but not in the way you thought.

Bauers head shoots up, her eyes meeting Pipers.

PIPER

(continuing)You have been here for only a month, so you havent realized yet - thecaptain hates losing people. It is totally unacceptable to him, andhes feeling frustrated that he cant get to Peck and Alridge anysooner to help them.

BAUERSo, he wasnt mad at me?

PIPER(he smiles at her)Of course not. In fact, he thinks a lot of you.

BAUERHow can you tell?

PIPER(meeting her eyes)Because, he put you in charge of his ship. Thats not something he doeslightly. In fact, its usually a sign of deep respect and trust.

Bauer grins the grin of someone who has just gained quite a bit of selfconfidence.

INT. DRAGONFLY

We are close on Pecks brow as a rivulet of sweat drips off his

forehead and onto his cheek. Pull back to reveal him making a systemscheck, more to pass the time than anything. Kindel is still pagingthrough the report on his clipboard looking decidedly unhappy.

KINDELI still dont like this.

PECKWhats to like? Were going to go around a Ragnarok which could prettymuch blow our whole convoy out of the water with one shot and try to


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pretend they arent there, hoping theyll avoid us so we can rescuepeople who probably are already dead by now off a lifeboat that wedont even quite know the exact position of.(under his breath)We should have brought Defiant .

KINDEL(shrugging before making a notation on the clipboard)Hey, dont look at me. Im not the one who makes the decisions.(antagonizing)Im just the one that cleans up your mess.

PECK(a frustrated sigh)Sometimes I wonder why Captain Wilmette doesnt transfer you. Youre agood doctor, but all you do is put down the ship. You make us all soundlike a bunch of butchers.

KINDELIm just a man who sees how the world is wrong, and I voice those

observations. I happen to work in a situation where those views areunpopular.

PECKSo why do you work for the U.E.O.?

KINDELBecause, as much as I might disagree with killing, I do realize thatthe world would be up the proverbial creek without a paddle if shipslike the Defiant didnt keep the peace.

Before Peck can reply, the communications system beeps and Peck hits aswitch.

ALRIDGE(filtered over Pecks headphones)Foghorn to Searchlight. Come in.

PECKSearchlight here.

INT. PHANTOM

Alridge watches something outside her windows as she talks with Peck.

ALRIDGESearchlight, have you checked out your window lately?

PECK(filtered)Thats a negative. What is it?

ALRIDGE(with a hint of annoyance)Why dont you look?

INT. DRAGONFLY


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Peck turns slightly red with embarrassment as he leans forward to peerout the window in front of him. After a few seconds of peering in thedarkness he sits back looking and sounding puzzled.

PECKI dont see anything.

ALRIDGE(annoyed)Then check your sensors!

Peck almost looks like hes going to give a glib response until hiseyes go wide as they meet the sensors screen.

PECKHoly crap!

ALRIDGE(filtered)

Its two minutes away. We could try to outrun, but it would be pushingthe Dragonflies engines.

ANGLE ON SENSOR SCREEN

On the black of the screen is the red outline of a Ragnarok.

PECK(OS)I think thats a chance were going to have to take. Increasing speed.

EXT. DRAGONFLY

The engines of the Dragonfly glow red as it begins to move rapidlyforward.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Pecks eyes are riveted to his sensor display.

ALRIDGE(filtered)Theyre turning to pursue.

PECK(to himself as well as Alridge)Then we are in deep trouble.


Wilmette is behind his desk signing reports while speaking to Easton,who is on the vidscreen. The admiral is in his own office, watchingWilmette as they speak.

WILMETTEI just want to get this whole damned mission done with. Not only do Ihate politically motivated operations, but now a bunch of my people are


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in trouble because of it.

EASTONIve said it a million times - our duty sometimes gets really hard toswallow. We have to play the PR game if we want to beat him though.

WILMETTE(looking up, setting his pen down)I know George. I want the bastard too, but its hard waiting.(rubbing his eyes)I want all of them, but not at the cost of my people. I hate watchinggood people get killed, and these are good people.

EASTONDont lose sight of the goal James. The U.E.O. is dedicated to thepreservation of freedom, and everyone who dies in the pursuit of thatgoal dies for everyone on the planet. The Defiant s mission is aboutmore than revenge. You know what the commissioning plaque says - NeverTo Yield.

WILMETTE(slightly annoyed, gritting his teeth)I know that George. I do remember my priorities once in a while.

EASTON(a warm grin)Yes James, but it is my job as your friend to remind you. You do have apersonal stake in seeing Correy hang, and I dont want you to doanything rash. I know you James.

WILMETTE(returning Eastons smile)I shouldnt lash out. Youre about the only one who can keep megrounded sometimes.

The air hangs silent for a moment before the communications panel onWilmettes desk beeps.

WILMETTE(pressing the button)Yes?

MARTIN(filtered)Sorry to disturb you, sir, but were getting a transmission fromCommander Peck.

Wilmettes eyes dart up to Easton, then back at the communicationsspeaker.

WILMETTEIll be right in.(slapping the switch, looking at Easton)Ive. . .

EASTON(a solemn nod)


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Well talk later. Get to your people.

Wilmette nods and strides towards the door, not waiting for the screento shut off.

CUT TO:

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck is speaking into the radio, Kindel still looking quite frightenedas he observes.

MARTIN(filtered)Watchtower here, sir. The captain is on his way.

PECK(as an afterthought)Scramble our signal, Watchtower.

There is a pause as a click sounds twice over the channel. A secondafter this, Wilmette comes on the line.

WILMETTE(filtered)Searchlight One, this is Watchtower. The signal is scrambled. Pleaseproceed.

PECKSir, the Ragnarok has decided to come after us. Foghorn suggested we gohead-to-head with them.(jesting)Who knows? We might get lucky. INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette is leaning back in his seat, his hands in his lap.

WILMETTEThat's a negative, Searchlight. Hold on.(to Martin)Set up a triangular tightbeam with Foghorn and Searchlight and put iton the viewer.

MARTIN(tapping controls)Aye, sir.

WILMETTEDid you get that Searchlight?

PECK(filtered)Yes sir.

After a few seconds Pecks face appears on the right side of theviewer, and Alridge, seated in her Phantom on the left.


36/56

ALRIDGE(filtered)Foghorn here, sir. Ive got both you and Searchlight.

PECK(filtered)And Ive got Foghorn.

Wilmette glances at Martin, and Martin checks the tightbeam connectionone last time before nodding. Wilmettes gaze returns to his officers.

WILMETTEFoghorn. I vetoed your plan because, as brave as it is, theres anotherapproach.

ALRIDGE(filtered, rolling her eyes)As long as it doesnt sacrifice me to save any sexual acquaintances.

Wilmette shuts his eyes tight, clenching his fists, but he lets theremark drop, avoiding Alridges smug gaze. Over him we catch a quickglimpse of Rusch at her station biting her lip in anger as she watchesWilmette.

WILMETTEThe plan is simple. I want the Foghorns to pretend they're leaving thearea. The Ragnarok will charge, and the Searchlights will draw fire.

INT. DRAGONFLY ONE

Kindel's face goes ash white, then regains it's stern, determined look.Peck considers the plan, his hand over his mouth as he thinks.

WILMETTE(filtered)Once the Foghorns appear to be gone, they will return and hit key partsof each PMR ship, hopefully disabling the vessels. Meanwhile, theSearchlights will begin evasive maneuvers, all the while heading forthe ocean floor. The Searchlights will then kick up the biggest cloudof sea particles it can, which will hopefully render sensors useless.(considers both his officers)Any questions?

ALRIDGE(serious)Sir, the Dragonflies weren't built for speed. Are you sure this will

work?

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette has leaned forward in his chair.

WILMETTEThe attack hasn't started yet, and it probably won't until all Foghornsare out of sensor range. Once you're there, wait ten seconds andreturn. We'll keep an open audio link to all of you to monitor progress.


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(beat)And, we're on our way. All you have to do is hold them off.

PECKAye, Sir.

ALRIDGE(swallowing distastefully - she doesnt like Wilmette rescuing her)Aye sir.

The screen goes dead and Wilmette slumps in his chair.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Wilmette's face disappears from the screen, and Peck begins to softlyad lib orders to the two other Dragonflies. Kindel, over his initialshock, straps himself in the copilot's seat.

PECK(glancing at Kindel)

You ever fly a shuttle before?

KINDELIt was required to learn to fly one when I was at the Academy, but thatwas a long time ago.

PECKIt's simple.(begins indicating controls)Well, I think you know how to use the maneuvering controls. Remember,forward is down, back up - just like an airplane.(indicating a row of five buttons)These are pre-programmed evasive maneuvers. You can use the thrustwhile each is being performed. They arent anything too fancy, buttheyll do the job.(beat, with a reassuring smile)And, that's pretty much all you need to know.

KINDELWhy are you telling me this?

PECK(jokingly)Because I'm going in back to get some coffee.(off Kindel's annoyed look)Seriously, if something happens to me, it's up to you to save yourselfand everyone aboard this shuttle. That's your first priority if I'm

injured. Don't help me until you're sure you're safe.

KINDEL(nervous, trying to relive some pressure)Of course I wouldn't.

PECK(his eyes meet Kindels)Doc, if I get injured then you have to get your people to safety. O.K.?You could try and save me but everyone else would probably die, and it


38/56

is your job - your oath - to save lives. Would you sacrifice everyoneon this shuttle to save one?

KINDEL(looking away, his face torn. Finally, his gaze meets Pecks and heslowly nods)No, I wouldnt. I see your point. Hell, I agree with it. I just. . .

PECKYou dont like to choose who lives or dies.

KINDELThats why I became a doctor - so I could at least try to make sure noone dies.

PECK(reflective)Unfortunately I dont have that choice.(patting him reassuringly on the back)Im going to make sure everyone is strapped in. See you in two.

Peck turns, sliding the curtain aside and steeping through.

END ACT THREE

ACT FOUR

FADE IN:

EXT. DEFIANT

The submarine races past us through the water.

INT. BRIDGE

The ship is at Battlestations, the atmosphere tense. Wilmette leansforward in his chair, his hands and eyes racing over his station screenand keyboard. Bauer is at Operations, and everyone else is at theirusual posts.

WILMETTE(not looking up)ETA?

WONG(we get the feeling that hes been asked this question quite a fewtimes over the past few minutes)

Six minutes, sir.

RUSCH(trying to be reassuring, and trying to distract herself)Weapons are checked and double checked, sir.

WILMETTE(a small smile)Im not surprised with you manning them.(turning toward her)


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Youve been with this ship almost two months, and in that short a timeyouve impressed me a lot. Thats not easy.

RUSCH(grinning)Thank you sir.

MARTIN(OS)Were getting a report from Commander Peck. Its scrambled.

WILMETTE(all business, rising from his seat, moving around the Command Plex)Overlap a scramble from our end and put it on screen.

Pecks face pops onto the screen looking a bit nervous.

PECKSir, were in position. The Ragnarok and the Valhallas have beenfollowing at a distance. Im not sure if they detect you or if theyre

afraid of Foghorns flying.(in explanation)Foghorn was a little uncomfortable with the distance between us and thebogeys so she did some. . .drunk driving as she put it.

WILMETTE(letting a bit of amusement creep into his expression)Ill wait until youre back to explain that one.(stepping forward, standing next to the starboard Helm pod)Are you in position?

PECK(OS)We are.

WILMETTEAre you ready?

PECK(chuckles)No.(serious)As ready as I can be. I have the training, and I have the skill.

WILMETTEAnd you have the courage. The U.E.O. doesnt let just anyone in, and Idont let just anyone aboard my ship - especially as my right hand.

Trust in yourself to do the job and know that you can do the job andyou will do the job. And make it back.

PECK(with a grin)Did I ever tell you that you sound exactly like Oliver Hudson?

WILMETTE(frowning, as if remembering a memory. Finally, quietly)No, but you didnt have to.


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(looking up, meeting Pecks gaze)Godspeed and good luck. Ill see you in six minutes.

WONG(with a smile)Actually, five sir.

WILMETTE(with a wave)You heard the man. Get going.

PECK(smiling)Yes sir.

Peck disappears and Wilmette takes a step back toward the Command Plex.Rusch softly clears her throat.

RUSCHTheyll be O.K., sir. If I know Lauren - and I do very well - shes

already figured out six or seven ways to take out that Ragnarok.

Wilmette cant help but grin.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck is going through a final check of the Dragonflys systems whileKindel glances over the onboard manual. Suddenly Pecks headset comesto life.

ALRIDGE(filtered)Foghorn to Searchlight.

PECKSearchlight here. Go ahead.

ALRIDGE(filtered)You in place?

PECKThats an affirmative Foghorn. You ready?

ALRIDGE(filtered)We really have no choice. I think that Ragnarok has just detected

Defiant. Its moving in as we speak, and the Valhallas arent farbehind.

ANGLE ON SENSORS SCREEN

On the Dragonflys sensors screen the red dots representing theRagnarok and the three Valhallas are getting uncomfortably close to thegreen dots representing the U.E.O. shuttle/fighter convoy.

BACK TO PECK


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Pecks gaze jumps up to the instruments in front of him as his handshover over the maneuvering controls.

PECK(with a sense of urgency)Youd better get going.

ALRIDGE(filtered, cool and focused)I was thinking the same thing. Good luck John.

PECKAnd you too Lauren.

EXT. CONVOY

The squadron of Phantoms fly in formation around the Dragonflies.Suddenly, the Phantoms peel away from the Dragonflies, flying away fromus and off screen.

ANGLE ON RAGNAROK

The Ragnarok comes to a total stop, its near black color almostblending in with the background. Behind it we can barely make out theValhallas, also in formation.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck and Kindels eyes are riveted on the sensors monitor.

PECK(quietly, almost to himself)Come on you big bastards.

EXT. RAGNAROK

The submarine just sits in the water, hovering for a few seconds as ifconsidering. Suddenly, it surges forward, the Valhallas following.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck jumps back in his seat, his fingers dancing across the controlsurfaces.

PECKThats it!

(into headset)Searchlight One to Searchlights. The enemy is charging. Evasivemaneuvers! Repeat, evasive maneuvers! The enemy is charging!

A quiet yet urgent beeping becomes audible as Kindel points to thescreen.

KINDELTheyre firing!


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EXT. RAGNAROK

The lasers on the underside of the submarines bow light up and two iceblue streams erupt from the emitter nodes, arcing toward theDragonflies.

EXT. DRAGONFLIES

The Dragonflies disperse from their formation and the icy blue beamsmiss the middle shuttle by a few hundred feet. A couple more beams arcpast, but these too miss.

INT. BRIDGE

Bauer taps the keyboard at her station, her brow creasing in worry asshe reads her screen.

BAUERSir, a couple Valhallas seem to be on a course for us.

Wilmette, who is also considering his station screen, quickly leansdown, looking over her shoulder at the screen.

WILMETTE(his eyes scanning Bauers screen)Are you sure they arent a diversion?

BAUERNegative sir. Theyre coming right for us, and their flight path ishalf a klick west of our people. Theyre bearing right down on us.

WILMETTEIll bet our buddies called for reinforcements as soon as they spottedus. Helm, prepare to intercept them and drop to attack speed. Ms.Rusch, lock onto the lead ship with our pulse lasers and preparetorpedoes in case we need them.

WONG(OS)Aye sir.

RUSCH(tapping controls)Its done sir.

BAUERThe Valhallas weapons just went hot. Time to intercept, three minutes.

WILMETTE(thoughtful)Martin, get out a signal to Pearl Harbor. Tell them were facing asituation here and inquire as to what ships are in the area. We mayneed backup.

MARTINYes sir.


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PIPERYou think of something?

WILMETTEI have been thinking it for a couple minutes now.(to Bauer)Ms. Bauer, give me a terrain map. Specifically, the area between thoseValhallas and us.

BAUERCalling up the map, sir. Two minutes to contact.(a beat)I just sent the map to your console.

WILMETTE(tapping a few buttons, studying it)Ms. Bauer, that canyon to the starboard - how deep is it?

BAUER(she hesitates, a light going on in her head)

Deep enough to hide a ship?

WILMETTE(smiling - impressed)Exactly.

BAUER(returning the smile)It is.

Everyones gaze snaps to meet Wilmette as he leans forward in his chair.

WILMETTEHelm, all stop.

WONGAll stop aye.

EXT. DEFIANT

The submarine comes to a halt, the Valhallas barely visible ahead ofthe canyon.

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette studies his screen as Bauer taps a few buttons.

BAUERThe Valhallas have come to a stop.

WILMETTEMs. Rusch, launch a couple torpedoes into that canyon.

RUSCHAye sir. Firing.

EXT. DEFIANT


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The submarine turns slightly as two torpedoes arc out from the firsttwo tubes and sail into the deep canyon. After a few seconds theyexplode.

INT. BRIDGE

Everyone waits in tense anticipation as Wilmettes hunch is tested.

PIPER(not a question)You think theres a Ragnarok in there.

WILMETTEOne has been missing since before Peck was attacked. I doubt it justleft - especially with us in the area.

RUSCHThe only question is, what will they do now that we know?

EXT. DEFIANT

The ship sits dead in the water about two hundred meters from the lipof the small canyon. Suddenly, a Ragnarok swiftly lifts from inside it,its weapons glowing red.

INT. BRIDGE

BAUERRagnarok at two oclock! Weapons are hot!

WILMETTEMs. Rusch, fire at will!

RUSCHFiring pulse lasers.

EXT. DEFIANT

The red pulse laser blasts arc towards the Ragnarok which has turned toevade. Three of the blasts slam the enemy vessel as it fires six quickstreams of blue laser fire.

ANGLE ON DEFIANT

Two of the Ragnaroks laser blasts impact the upper bow. Both areabsorbed by the triple layered hull.

INT. BRIDGE

The Bridge lightly shakes from the impacts.

RUSCHFiring again.

BAUERThe Ragnarok is preparing to come about.


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WILMETTEFull ahead. Prepare evasive maneuvers.(to Piper)How bad?

PIPERThe first layer caught it. It was a scrape.

WILMETTEThe Ragnaroks lasers are its advantage. We wont be that lucky nexttime.

BAUER(OS)The Ragnarok is coming about! Weapons hot!

WILMETTEMs. Rusch, fire pulse lasers. Mr. Wong, do not evade until the lastpossible second.

WONG(OS)Aye sir.

RUSCHFiring.

EXT. DEFIANT

The submarine bears down on the charging Ragnarok, its pulse lasersarcing out in ten shots which slam the enemy vessel.

NEW ANGLE - DEFIANT

Six laser bolts from the Ragnarok slam Defiant amidships. The warshiprocks from the impact.

EXT. DRAGONFLIES

The fleet is having some difficulty evading the shots from the PMRvessels. Pecks Dragonfly, which still leads the pack, has taken aslight hit aft, the engine housing slightly scorched.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Sweat pours down Pecks brow as his fingers dance over the controls,

the cabin frequently lighting up courtesy of an enemy laser blast.

KINDEL(hanging on for dear life)Where is our escort?

PECK(never taking his eyes from his panel)They should be back by now. The dust cloud they tried to stir up hasntworked as well as wed hoped.


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As if on cue, the Communications panel on the console beeps. Kindelpunches the button for Peck.

ALRIDGE(filtered)Foghorn One to Searchlight One. You look like you could use somerescuing.

PECKConcentrate on that Ragnarok. Its giving us the most trouble.

ALRIDGE(filtered)Affirmative.

EXT. DRAGONFLY

The Phantoms reappear around the shuttles for a brief instant beforepulling away.

ANGLE ON RAGNAROK

The Phantoms are like a swarm of bees as they begin their attack on theenemy vessel.

INT. BRIDGE

The ship shudders from another impact, everyone hanging onto theirconsoles. Suddenly, Bauers console begins urgently beeping, and shechecks it, her face going pale.

BAUERSir, those Valhallas have decided to join the fight. One is off theport bow by about fifty meters and the other is trying to flank us.

WILMETTEWe need to get clear. Mr. Wong, full speed ahead. Ms. Bauer, launchremaining Phantoms.

BAUERThere are only six left. . .

WILMETTE(harsh)Do it!

BAUER(swallowing)Yes sir. Phantoms launching.

EXT. DEFIANT

The submarine slows slightly as the six Phantoms are launched from theport side tubes. A couple blue laser beams pass near the ship.

INT. BRIDGE


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BAUERFighters away.

WILMETTEHow far are we from those bogeys?

BAUERTheyre right behind - nine hundred meters and closing.

WILMETTEHelm, prepare to bring us around hard. Ms. Rusch, when we come about Iwant you to tear that Ragnarok apart. We are the most heavily armedship in the U.E.O. fleet, and I want to remind those PMR sons ofbitches of that.

RUSCH(almost grinning)Aye sir.

BAUER(under her breath)I just hope Mr. Peck is doing better.

EXT. DRAGONFLIES

The Ragnarok, Phantoms swarming around it, approaches the formation ofthree Dragonflies. Despite a few close calls, the Dragonflies aresuccessful in dodging the fire from the Ragnarok.

CLOSE ON RAGNAROK

It is burning in three different sections, all of which are near theengines. However, no matter how valiantly the Phantoms fight, they arebarely putting a dent in the ship.

INT. PHANTOM

Alridge sweats as she dodges fire from the Ragnarok and returns theshots with fire of her own.

ALRIDGEAlridge to Peck.

PECK(filtered)Were not using callsigns?

ALRIDGE(angry)Does it matter?(tense)Were not winning. As much fire as were laying on that Ragnarok, itsnot bursting. The engines are shot up, but it doesnt seem to matter.Now, if we could get to whats controlling it. . .

PECK


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(filtered)Thats it!

ALRIDGEWhat?

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck glances at Kindel, a wide grin on his face.

PECKDoc, take over for me, will you?

KINDELDo I have a choice?

Kindel grabs the controls as Peck leans forward, talking into hiscommunications headset.

PECK

I just got a crazy idea.

INT. BRIDGE

The atmosphere is tense. Wilmette leans forward in his chair watchingthe main viewer.

WILMETTEMr. Wong?

WONGReady sir.

RUSCH(anticipating)So am I sir.

WILMETTEExecute!

EXT. DEFIANT

The mighty ship suddenly comes about, charging toward us, its pulselaser nodes glowing red, regular laser nodes glowing blue, and alltorpedo tubes open.

NEW ANGLE - DEFIANT

The Ragnarok approaches the Defiant , its laser nodes glowing blue.Suddenly, the entirety of Defiant s Hammerhead Weapons System comes tolife - ten torpedo tubes, four pulse laser nodes, and four regularlaser nodes, all sending deadly streams of ordinance for the Ragnarok.It is an impressive sight. The enemy vessel begins to evade, but its maneuver is in vain. Thesteams of fire - all of them - slam the dark ship, shredding theentirety of the forward hull. The Ragnarok begins to list, water


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pouring into the breached innards.

INT. BRIDGE

BAUER(jubilant)Direct hit, all weapons! They are going down!

WILMETTE(impassive)Mr. Wong, back us up a few hundred meters. Ms. Rusch, target theirengines and fire.

RUSCHAll weapons?

WILMETTE(a slight smile)I think the pulse lasers will be enough, thank you.

RUSCH(returning the grin)I couldnt agree more.

EXT. DEFIANT

The sinking, shattered Ragnarok has almost dipped below Defiant , theValhallas stationary behind. The Defiant s two dorsal pulse laser nodesglow red and six streams of deadly red light arc towards the Ragnaroksbow. The laser bolts make a solid impact, and the enemy ship explodesquickly.

INT. BRIDGE

Everyone save Wilmette exhales. The captain leans forward, checking hisconsole as Bauer looks over the SoftScan readings.

BAUERThe Valhallas are withdrawing fast. It seems they lost their stomachfor a fight.

RUSCHAfter what we did to that Ragnarok, do you blame them?

WILMETTEWhat about our rescue party?

WONGWere four minutes away. Our run from the Ragnarok actually got uscloser.

BAUERIt seems that theyre doing a marvelous job dod. . .

Bauers voice trails off, her brow creasing. Wilmette leans forward inhis seat, his face full of worry. Rusch turns a bit pale.


50/56

WILMETTEWhat?

BAUER(turning toward Wilmette)We just lost Searchlight Two.

EXT. DRAGONFLY

Searchlight One dodges a large blue bolt of laser fire as SearchlightTwo, right next to it, disappears in a ball of turquoise and yellow.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck slams his hand on the console as Kindel focuses on piloting theshuttle.

PECKDamn it!!

KINDELTheres nothing. . .

PECK(sharp)That doesnt make it any easier!

KINDEL(quiet, looking away for a second)Believe me Mr. Peck - I know.

Pecks face softens as he punches the communications switch.

PECKLauren, are you ready?

INT. PHANTOM

Alridge checks her readings one last time.

ALRIDGEWell begin our run now.

EXT. PHANTOMS

The swarm of six Phantoms, dodging the Ragnaroks fire, peel about andhead straight for the dorsal bow of the enemy ship.

NEW ANGLE - RAGNAROK

Were close on the Bridge dome. Its in the same position as the Bridgeon a seaQuest vessel. Suddenly, a mass of laser fire slams into it,shattering it.

WIDE ON RAGNAROK

The mighty ship suddenly begins floundering from side-to-side, all Helm


51/56

control lost with the Bridge. Behind it, the Valhallas move in andbegin gaining on the Phantoms, which are retreating at top speed.

INT. DRAGONFLY

Peck watches the retreat on his screen.

PECK(almost a whisper)Come on Lauren! Come on!

EXT. PHANTOMS

The lead Valhalla has its engines going full speed, and its gaining onthe swarm of fighters. The Phantoms rattle and shake from the speed ofthe chase, but the Valhalla still looms right behind. Its going to mowdown the swarm of fighters.

Suddenly, six pairs of pulse laser beams slam the Valhalla near thebow, and the PMR vessel breaks off.

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette stands in front of the Command Plex watching the main viewer.

WILMETTEThis is Captain James Wilmette of Defiant Defensive Submergence Vehicleto PMR vessels. I noticed you were trying to kill my Phantom pilotsbefore I arrived. Ive already had a bad day, and people who try tokill my people really piss me off, so I suggest you withdraw before Iget surly.

EXT. DEFIANT

The Phantoms converge on their home ship as both Valhallas - one in theforeground and one in the background - turn to leave.

INT. BRIDGE

Wilmette watches for a second, then, satisfied that his enemies areretreating, retakes his place at the Command Plex.

WILMETTEMs. Martin, signal Commander Peck that we will escort him to thelifeboat. Tell him Ill talk to him as soon as those survivors arerescued.

MARTIN(OS)Yes sir.

RUSCH(with a smile)Another mission well done, sir.

WILMETTE(turning toward her)


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Yes Ms. Rusch.(turning toward the viewer, quietly)But just the first of many.

END ACT FOUR

ACT FIVE

FADE IN:

EXT. DEFIANT

The Defiant is docked in its berth at Pearl Harbor as the sun sets inthe horizon.

INT. RUSCHS CABIN

The place is a mess. Clothes and uniforms lie scattered across thefloor and draped over a couple shelves. A few of the pictures, mostlyof Rusch and Alridge during past shore leaves, lay face down, and the

bed is unmade. Rusch is picking up the clothes and stuffing them intoher ditty bag when there is a knock at the door.

RUSCH(calling out)Come in!

The door swings open and Alridge, in her uniform, enters, glancingaround.

ALRIDGEBeen a while since you cleaned.

RUSCH(a chuckle)Yeah. Havent had time since we did the weapons inventory.(stuffing the last of the clothes in the bag)Did you want something?

ALRIDGENo. Just dropped by.(a sigh)John told me you were concerned.

RUSCH(a shrug)What do you expect? My best friend goes head-to-head with an enemy

fleet in a fighter, I get worried.

ALRIDGEI came back.

RUSCHBarely.

ALRIDGE(sitting on the bed)


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Look, you cant get worried every time I fly solo now. I am quiteproficient in the use of a fighter.

RUSCHYou taught me, didnt you.

ALRIDGE(correcting)Helped teach you. Kevin also did some of it.

Ruschs face darkens significantly, and she slowly exhales.

RUSCHI. . .I remember. I dont want to, but I do.

ALRIDGECarrie, you have to let it go sometime.

RUSCH(meeting her eyes)

Do I?(indignant)Who are you to tell me about letting go?

ALRIDGE(disgusted)This doesnt have anything to do with the capt. . .

RUSCHYou wont leave him alone! Hes trying to save your ass and all you cando is crucify him!

ALRIDGEHe got my sister killed! What do you expect me to do?

RUSCHShow him a little damned respect! Give him a chance! You want me to letgo. Then you better let go too.

ALRIDGEKevin didnt kill your sister.

RUSCH(her eyes wet)No. He stole my virginity! He took it and then he cheated on me thevery next day! That may not be as horrid as losing Alison, but it'sstill damned hard to live with!

Alridges face softens and she gently places her hand on Ruschsshoulder.

ALRIDGECarrie. . .

RUSCH(shaking the hand off, holding back)Id like to be alone now.


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(facing Alridge, a tear falling down her cheek)Please.

Alridge is visibly hurt, but she simply nods and briskly departs,softly shutting the door behind her. Rusch approaches one of thepictures - a photo of her and Alridge on shore leave in a citysomewhere - and removes the back. Inside is a photo, about two yearsold, of Rusch and a fairly handsome brown haired man in his earlytwenties.

Rusch cannot look at the picture at first, but, hands shaking, sheforces her gaze upon it. When her eyes meet the photo, tears begin tofall from her eyes.

INT. DEFIANT - MAIN CORRIDOR

Alridge strides away from Ruschs quarters, her eyes wet, herexpression pained. After she passes, we hold on the corridor for amoment before we

CUT TO

INT. U.E.O. PEARL HARBOR ADMINISTRATION BUILDING - EASTONS OFFICE

Admiral George Easton, still in uniform, sits behind his desk laughingat a comment from Wilmette, who is seated in the right visitors chair.Wilmette, also in uniform, chuckles as he crosses his left leg over theright.

WILMETTEI think we put the fear of God in them today.

EASTONI would say so. Unfortunately it wont be near enough.

WILMETTE(quietly)I know.(a chuckle)Just like old times.

EASTONExcept its the Defiant , not the Maryland .

WILMETTEShes a good ship George. A good crew.

EASTONThey certainly did well. Commander Peck and Lt. Commander Alridge tookon a Ragnarok in EVA craft. Not a small feat.

WILMETTEI knew Alridge was good, but Peck surprised me.

EASTON(leaning back in his chair)What do you think of him?


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WILMETTE(considering)I know he got good marks from Captain Matthews.

EASTON(giving Wilmette a look)Thats not. . .

WILMETTEI know. We arent friends, and were not likely to be anytime soon.Theres the age gap, and we are two very different men.

EASTONHes 25, isnt he?

WILMETTEYeah. One year younger than Alridge, and it shows. Hes ambitious, andhes a bit arrogant. Dont get me wrong - hes a good officer, but hesnot a great one.

EASTONYou wouldnt give him Defiant .

WILMETTEIf I went on vacation I would. He knows Id shove him out an airlock ifhe even put one dent in my ship.

Easton smiles and Wilmette returns it.

WILMETTE(cont)But not on a permanent basis. He knows the book, and he knows how toplay the game. Give him five/six years and he may have the skill butnot now. We get along - theres a mutual respect between us, buttheres still a distance. But, as long as he does the job - and hesdone it fine these last six months - then were O.K.

EASTON(part question, part statement)And youre doing O.K.?

WILMETTEI knew Correy was still around. That little stunt I pulled in Novembertrying to blow him up was a long shot, and I half expected him toescape.(a tired sigh)

But its not easy. I dont let it show, but it. . .

Wilmette trails off and Easton nods sympathetically.

EASTONYour journey has never been easy James. In the thirteen years of ourfriendship, youve always had a great cross to bear. Ill never forgetwhen you became a captain. My base was in pieces, and most of my staffwas dead in the ruins of the old Admin Building. seaQuest was on thebottom of the ocean, and morale was with it. We needed hope, and we


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desperately needed a flagship.

WILMETTE(smiling with the memory)And we got the Maryland .

EASTON(also smiling)I remember when she was docked in Berth One, fresh from drydock. McGathshowed up with this newly minted, thirty-two year old captain in towwho looked scared to death.

WILMETTE(slightly chuckling)The call came at four in the morning. McGath told me to pack - I wasthe captain of the flagship of the fleet.

EASTONDefiant might not be the flagship, but she is our best hope against thePMR. This time the PMR is packing some major firepower.

WILMETTETheyll get whats coming to them. The U.E.O. is far from defenseless.If we have to put weapons on every ship we have to beat them, we will.We will remind Correy that revenge is a dish best served cold.

EASTON(meeting his eyes)I dont have to remind you the dangers of vengeance.

WILMETTEThis isnt just vengeance George. This is for the one hundred sixpeople who died aboard the U.E.O. Maryland and the nine hundred twenty-four in Ganges Colony.(with fire in his eyes and thunder in his voice)This isnt simple revenge. Its justice for a thousand. And God helpanyone who gets in my way.

Hold on Wilmettes steely gaze for a few seconds, then

FADE TO BLACK

THE END

Copyright 2000 Defiant Editorial

defiant: 101 - a dish best served cold

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