"Marshmallows in Jell-O, part 2: Harshened Mellow"
TEASER
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE
Two sleek and deadly Peacekeeper Vigilante ships speed through space. This is the most recent retrieval squad sent by High Command to retrieve the hybrid ship Talyn, his rogue Captain, and the escaped prisoners on Moya.
INT. VIGILANTE, COCKPIT -- CONTINUOUS
A pair of Peacekeeper commandos are operating the craft, a pilot and co-pilot. The comm comes suddenly to life.
PROWLER PILOT (O.S.)
Retrieval Squad dekka three, this is Prowler group basra six four. Please respond, Vigilante.CO-PILOT
What the frell do they want?
The Pilot keys the comm.
PILOT
Go ahead, Prowler.PROWLER PILOT(O.S.)
You're ordered to cease all operation on your current mission and come about.PILOT
Ordered by who?PROWLER PILOT(O.S.)
You will proceed with us to our command carrier.PILOT
We answer only to High Command, you don't have any authority over us.PROWLER PILOT(O.S.)
Retrieval Squad dekka three, I repeat, you are ordered to come about.PILOT
We are on assignment for High Command, you'll let us on our way or--
The Vigilante shakes violently and an explosion can be heard. The Pilot and Co-Pilot are stunned, but with years of Peacekeeper training behind them, they react instantly.
CO-PILOT
They've opened fire.PILOT
Weapons on-line.
EXT. SPACE -- CONTINUOUS
Before the Vigilantes can really do anything the Prowler squad is all over them. A short but vicious battle later, the retrieval squad is reduced to spare parts and the Prowlers turn for home.
INT. SCORPIUS'S QUARTERS, COMMAND CARRIER -- MOMENTS LATER
Scorpius is tending one of his plants. Lt. Braca enters, Scorpius doesn't look up.
SCORPIUS
Yes, Braca?BRACA
The retrieval squad has been...dealt with.SCORPIUS
Very good.
Braca turns to leave, but hesitates.
BRACA
Sir?SCORPIUS
Yes?BRACA
Do you really intend to meet with them?SCORPIUS
Of course.BRACA
Sir, we know where they are, why not just take them?SCORPIUS
We have tried that before. Crichton is clever enough when he needs to be and I can no longer risk his getting away.
Braca is quiet for a moment, then he smiles smugly, apparently quite proud of his Peacekeeper superiority.
BRACA
We've finally brought him to heel.SCORPIUS
So it seems. Though I'm certain he has something dramatic planned.
Scorpius smiles, almost savoring the thought.
SCORPIUS (CONT'D)
I need the knowledge John possess. And I admit I am rather curious. Arrange the meeting, Braca.BRACA
Yes, sir.
Braca leaves and Scorpius goes back to what he was doing, still smiling.
BLACKOUT:
CREDITS
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. CITY ON PLANET -- NIGHT
Crichton is lurking in the shadows of a large building and looking across the street to the brightly lit entrance of another building. Harvey is standing next to him, leaning nonchalantly against the wall. Harvey is wearing a long trench coat and a dark fedora, more mafioso than Humphrey Bogart.
HARVEY
What're you doing, John?CRICHTON
What's it look like I'm doing?HARVEY
It looks like you're wasting a great deal of time and energy on something completely inconsequential.CRICHTON
These guys attacked us.HARVEY
You've dealt with the waste of carbon pirates who attacked Moya. What are you really doing now?CRICHTON
These are bad guys, Harv. I like to stop the bad guys. It's what I do.HARVEY
Spare me your sanctimonious drivel, John. These people are beneath your attention. If you're looking for a distraction to take your mind off the lovely but chilly Officer Sun, you'll find more then enough to occupy yourself once you locate Scorpius's command carrier.CRICHTON
Sometimes a guy just needs a little fun.HARVEY
Nothing with you is ever little, John. We'd be better served by you setting aside this ridiculous pursuit.CRICHTON
Look, I just want...
(pause)
Why am I explaining myself to you? Take a hike, Scarecrow.
Crichton's attention is drawn from Harvey when somebody starts nudging his side. Harvey disappears and Crichton looks down at Chiana, who is standing in the shadows with him.
CHIANA
Crichton. Hey Crichton.CRICHTON
What, Chi?CHIANA
Where'd you go?CRICHTON
Nowhere. You see anything?CHIANA
Yeah, some movement. There's definitely somebody inside.CRICHTON
Let's saddle up.
Crichton pushes himself away from the building and strides purposefully across the street. Chiana follows warily, trying to move a little more stealthily then her companion.
INT. HALLWAY IN MOYA -- MOMENTS LATER
Aeryn is marching down the hall, Lieutenant Zahavi is forced to almost jog along beside her to keep up. Aeryn's body language is tense and she is obviously extremely irritable.
AERYN
This conversation is over.ZAHAVI
Please, you must --
Aeryn stops and turns on him. The Lieutenant stumbles back slightly, trying to stay out of arms reach as much as he can.
AERYN
No. You listen to me. I have had several very bad weekens and I am not in the mood to deal with any more of this dren. You had your chance, now we do this our way.ZAHAVI
Right.
Aeryn starts walking again.
AERYN
I am going down to the planet, I am going to find Crichton, then we are going to leave your wastehole of a system, and if you cooperate like you promised you would, this can all go very smoothly and nobody will get hurt. Now is that clear?ZAHAVI
Perfectly.AERYN
Good.
They come to the landing bay and enter.
INT. MOYA'S LANDING BAY -- CONTINUOUS
Aeryn and the Lieutenant take a few steps inside and Aeryn stops again.
AERYN
Tell your people that we are prepared to turn ourselves in to the Peacekeepers and that we've arranged a meeting point with them. It's out of their hands now and they'd best leave it alone.ZAHAVI
I'll tell them, but can I ask you a question first?AERYN
What?ZAHAVI
Why? Why turn yourselves in? I can't see how that could possibly be a very good idea.AERYN
It's not. It's a very bad idea. Why does it matter?ZAHAVI
You're all just ... I mean it's ... you just...
He stops and shuffles around a bit, flustered.
ZAHAVI
You deserve better than that. Just starburst away.AERYN
We've been running from this command carrier for three cycles. We have some leverage now and while we do, this is our best opportunity to deal with this once and for all.ZAHAVI
I don't like it.AERYN
You don't have to.
Aeryn makes her way to a transport pod, leaving the Lieutenant standing helpless and frustrated in the bay.
EXT. SPACE -- MOMENTS LATER
Moya, Talyn and the two Merchant Patrol ships are hanging in space above the planet. A transport pod leaves Moya, starting down to the planet.
INT. MERCHANT PATROL SHIP, BRIDGE -- MOMENTS LATER
Captain Del Roer is standing on the bridge looking out. He appears to be extremely tense, sweat is beading on his forehead and he looks as though he's suddenly found his uniform has become a size too small. In front of him a young officer sits at a console.
OFFICER
Sir, the transport has entered the atmosphere and the Leviathan is not responding to our hails.ROER
Fire a warning shot across their bow.OFFICER
Yes, sir. Firing a warning shot.
INT. MOYA, PILOT'S DEN -- CONTINUOUS
Pilot is monitoring Moya's systems and he receives a disturbing bit of sensor data.
PILOT
D'Argo! One of the Merchant Patrol vessels is powering up its weapons.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- CONTINUOUS
A very irritated D'Argo is standing on command.
D'ARGO
What are they doing?
Lt. Zahavi is just coming onto the command deck. He realizes what is about to happen and runs over to D'Argo.
ZAHAVI
Answer the hail. Answer it! Let me talk to them.
EXT. SPACE -- CONTINUOUS
The Merchant Patrol vessel fires a warning shot across Moya's bow. Talyn, who is hanging just next to Moya, turns his main cannon to the vessel and fires once. The MP ship is not destroyed but it has obviously been hit very hard.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- CONTINUOUS
D'Argo looks even more irritated and strikes out at a console. Lt. Zahavi has gone from looking alarmed to looking fairly ill.
ZAHAVI (CONT'D)
Goddess.
INT. BUILDING ON PLANET, FOYER -- NIGHT
Crichton and Chiana enter the building and walk confidently into the foyer. In front of them is a reception desk and behind that an elevator with a keycard entry. There are two guards, one is sitting at the desk and the other is standing leaning against the desk. They are having a friendly chat and they look up startled when Crichton and Chiana walk in.
Crichton doesn't even break stride when he sees the guards.
CRICHTON
Hey guys. How's it going?
Crichton walks quickly over to the desk and then around it to the side of the seated guard. Crichton pulls the guy up by his jacket and punches him, knocking him out. Meanwhile Chiana has come up behind the standing guard, who was distracted by Crichton, and she brings her pistol down on the back of his head, rendering him unconscious as well.
Crichton drops the guard to the floor and turns to look at the computer on the desk, a slightly puzzled look on his face. Chiana comes up next to him.
CHIANA
Well?CRICHTON
Probably should have asked first, huh?
Crichton looks around, then he bends over and starts rifling through the pockets of the two unconscious men.
Chiana sits on the desk and watches Crichton with a small smile on her face. Crichton pulls an ID chit from the pocket of one of the guards and straightens then looks over his shoulder at Chiana.
CRICHTON
You looking at my ass, Chi?CHIANA
Yeah.CRICHTON
Think maybe you could tear yourself away long enough to take care of the comms?
Chiana grins at him and turns back to the desk. She raises her pistol and blasts the comms. She admires her work for a second then runs over to Crichton who is standing at the elevator trying to get it open with the guard's ID chit. He opens it and he and Chiana get in.
INT. ELEVATOR IN BUILDING -- CONTINUOUS
CHIANA
We don't know where he is.CRICHTON
Top floor.
Crichton pushes a button and then leans back against the wall to enjoy the ride.
CHIANA
Really?CRICHTON
Everybody knows the big bad is always on the top floor, Pip. It's the rules.CHIANA
Whose rules?CRICHTON
Law of nature.
Chiana accepts his explanation with a nod and leans back next to him.
CHIANA
You know if you don't want people staring at your ass you shouldn't wear such tight pants.CRICHTON
You're one to talk. One of these days you're gonna fall right out of that outfit.CHIANA
In your dreams.CRICHTON
I wish.CHIANA
See but I don't mind people looking at my body. You know you like it.CRICHTON
No argument. And hey, feel free to stare at my ass anytime you like. Just take care of business first.CHIANA
There are all kinds of business, Crichton.
Crichton gives Chiana a "look" as the elevator doors open into
INT. YARAK'S OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS
The office is richly appointed, opulent even. The main entrance is opposite the far wall which is all windows and shows a stunning view of the city. There is another door in the side wall to the right. There are a few chairs and a long desk situated in front of the windows. Sitting at the desk is a man in a military dress uniform covered with ribbons, medals, and gold and silver braid. Chiana steps to the right of the door and Crichton moves in towards the desk.
YARAK
John Crichton.CRICHTON
That's an awfully shiny uniform you've got there, Blackbeard.YARAK
Did you kill them?CRICHTON
No. Not my style.
Crichton starts to wander around the room. Yarak is trying to look both cool and keep an eye on the irritated human.
YARAK
That's not what the Peacekeepers say.CRICHTON
What do you know about it?YARAK
Quite a bit actually. Like, you might want to get back to your ship as soon as possible.
Crichton raises his eyebrows in inquiry.
YARAK (CONT'D)
Trab's dead, now let me do you one more favor. The Peacekeepers are on their way and I don't want them here anymore than you do. The lockdown's lifted, get off my frelling planet.
Crichton looks at Chiana and gives her a small smile. Chiana grins back, looking vastly relieved. However, the look turns to one of horror when Crichton speaks next.
CRICHTON
Come on Mr. Smeed, can't you come up with something better? Gonna take more than that to scare off me and Tinkerbell.YARAK
Well try this then. I have a couple of gun ships pointed at your Leviathan.
Crichton stops pacing just in front of Yarak's desk and stares at him.
YARAK
Comm your ship.CRICHTON
Tink?CHIANA
Hey!CRICHTON
...Erbell. Tinkerbell. Nevermind. The comm?
Crichton and Yarak glance over at Chiana and watch with great interest as she digs the comm out of her bodice.
CHIANA
D'Argo?
From the comm comes a loud roaring and a stream of violent Luxan curses. Chiana yelps and tosses the comm to Crichton. Crichton catches it automatically and looks at it apprehensively.
CRICHTON
D'Argo?D'ARGO
Crichton! If you are frelling done frelling around on that frelling planet could you get your frelling eema back on the frelling ship?CRICHTON
Things going okay up there, big guy?D'ARGO
Let me tell you exactly what I'm going to do to your boys next time I see you.CRICHTON
Uh, right, keep me posted.
Crichton hurriedly turns off the comm and stuffs it in his pocket. Yarak sits back in his chair, fairly self-satisfied, almost amused.
YARAK
Did you want transport to your ship?CRICHTON
Don't think this changes anything. You picked the wrong ship to hit and now I'm your bad karma.
Yarak is absolutely disgusted, frustrated and annoyed.
YARAK
What do you think you're going to do?CHIANA
We could kill you.YARAK
I thought that wasn't his style.CRICHTON
I'm a flexible kind of guy.YARAK
I suggest you start thinking about how you're going to get out of here, instead.CHIANA
Why?YARAK
This building was surrounded by the Patrol the microt you walked in here.
Crichton pulls his pulse pistol and points it at Yarak.
CRICHTON
Give me one good reason why I shouldn't blow your head off.YARAK
Because in spite of the Peacekeepers' best efforts your reputation precedes you.
Crichton stares at him for a moment then turns to look over his shoulder at Chiana. As he does so, he catches movement in the corner and sees that the side door has opened and a soldier is just entering the room, rifle pointed at Chiana. Chiana, who is slightly turned, facing Crichton and Yarak, doesn't immediately notice the new threat.
CRICHTON
Son of a bitch.
Crichton whips his arm around and shoots the guy entering the room. He turns back to Yarak, absolutely furious, pistol again pointed at the man's head.
CRICHTON(CONT'D)
You blew it. Get up.
Yarak sits back stubbornly in his chair. Crichton calmly fires just over Yarak's shoulder, blowing out one of the windows.
CRICHTON(CONT'D)
Do you really want to find my breaking point? I mean, really?
Yarak stands up immediately.
YARAK
What are you doing?
Crichton flicks his gun, indicating that Yarak should start out of the room in front of him.
CRICHTON
You better hope these guys don't have itchy trigger fingers.
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
EXT. ALLEY ON PLANET -- NIGHT
The alley is heavily in shadows. There is some illumination coming from a lamp in the street but the piles of boxes and crates keep much of the light out. It is not a particularly clean alley, there's debris strewn about, small puddles of mystery moisture, and a general dank and seedy air.
From down the street come shouts and the chaotic clatter of boots and explosions. The yells echo off the alley's narrow walls and bright streaks of light, pulse blasts, dart past the entrance. Some of the blasts catch the far wall, exploding and sending up showers of dust and sparks.
Crichton, Chiana and their captive, Yarak, round the corner quickly, ducking into the alley. Crichton has a firm grip on Yarak's jacket and he shoves the other man up against a wall, pinning him there. Chiana is crouched behind a crate near the alley's entrance, keeping an eye out.
CRICHTON
You said there'd be five guys waiting at that exit. That was more than five.YARAK
I said at least five.CRICHTON
You flunked kindergarten, didn't you? Pip, how many did you count?CHIANA
I didn't. I was a little distracted by all the shooting.YARAK
This is ridiculous. What do you think you're going to do with me?CRICHTON
Stick you on a spit and call you dinner?
Any reply Yarak might have made is interrupted by the sound of armed soldiers approaching. Chiana scrambles to hide behind the crates and Crichton pulls Yarak down into a pile of garbage next to him. A pair of soldiers hesitate at the mouth of the alley. They make a rather half-assed effort at looking, settling for simply shining their lights briefly down the alley before running off after their comrades.
The trio slowly, and in the case of Crichton and Chiana, warily get to their feet. Yarak makes a show of brushing himself off and straightening his uniform.
YARAK
The great John Crichton, hiding in rubbish. How very impressive.
Crichton is not in the mood for this guy anymore. He roughly shoves Yarak down. Yarak stumbles and falls into one of the puddles of mystery moisture.
CRICHTON
I don't give a good god damn how impressed you are with me. If you wanna call me the Easter bunny and picture me in a pink tutu, go right ahead. But get this, Captain Blowhard, the sweet deal you've got set up for yourself here is over.
Yarak starts to get up, he is furious.
YARAK
You frelling --
Crichton pushes him back down.
CRICHTON
You're just a weasel in a suit on a little planet, Yarak. Any other day you wouldn't be worth my time, but I'm bored and you're a jackass.
(to Chiana)
Come on, Pip.CHIANA
We're just gonna leave him there?CRICHTON
Yep. Date's over.
They scan the street carefully before slipping out of the alley, leaving an indignant, humiliated, and furious Yarak sitting on the filthy pavement. Yarak starts to get to his feet as a group of soldiers appears at the entrance to the alley. They run towards him.
SOLDIER #1
Admiral! Are you alright, sir?YARAK
Give me your comm.SOLDIER #1
Sir?YARAK
Your comm! Now!
The soldier hands his comm over.
INT. HALLWAY IN MOYA -- CONTINUOUS
Zahavi is sneaking around the ship, he is at one of the neural clusters and he's got a laser cutter in one hand. He stares at the exposed fibers and looks uncomfortable. He chews on his lip for a moment but before he can do anything he hears somebody approaching. He scrambles away and hides in a duct.
D'Argo comes up to the neural cluster and sees that the casing is off. He rolls his eyes and sighs heavily.
D'ARGO
He's been at the node on tier 14, too.RYGEL(O.S.)
Is there any damage at this one?D'ARGO
None.RYGEL(O.S.)
What the yotz is he doing?
D'Argo spots the duct cover askew. He pulls his qualta blade and approaches.
D'ARGO
I don't know. I'll get back to you in a microt.
He kicks the duct cover.
D'ARGO(CONT'D)
I don't even think Rygel would be comfortable in there. Would you like to come out now?ZAHAVI
If I come out, do you promise not to shoot me?D'ARGO
No.ZAHAVI
I'm quite comfortable.D'ARGO
If you're trying to sabotage Moya you're not doing a very effective job.ZAHAVI
I'm pleased to hear that, uh, I don't really care to harm her. But, I have orders to disable your ship to keep you in system.D'ARGO
Well, that shouldn't be hard. We have three people down on that planet and we're not going anywhere without them.ZAHAVI
There's more to it.D'ARGO
And that would be?ZAHAVI
There are Peacekeepers coming.D'ARGO
I know that.ZAHAVI
No, there's a small base in a nearby system and one of our Admirals called in a favor. A Marauder group will be here in less than two arns.D'ARGO
Well frell.ZAHAVI
Indeed.
(pause)
I'll be in the, um, atmospheric scrubbers if you need me.
Zahavi starts to crawl away and D'Argo heaves another heavy sigh.
D'ARGO
Try not to lose any limbs.
EXT. CITY ON PLANET -- MOMENTS LATER
It is very early morning on the planet, still dark. Aeryn is stalking through the city, looking for Crichton and Chiana.
D'ARGO(O.S.)
Remember that picket commander you were afraid would show up? The one looking to make a name for himself?AERYN
Yes?D'ARGO(O.S.)
He's on his way.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- CONTINUOUS
D'Argo is scowling at anything and anybody within scowling range.
AERYN(O.S.)
Wonderful. How long?D'ARGO
No more than two arns. Suggestions?AERYN(O.S.)
How long until Scorpius gets here?D'ARGO
At least ten arns.
EXT. CITY ON PLANET -- CONTINUOUS
Aeryn pauses on the street when she hears the sounds of fighting in the distance. Explosions, pulse pistol fire, and shouts. She heads that way.
AERYN
Frell.D'ARGO(O.S.)
Aeryn?AERYN
I think I found them. I'll check back in half an arn.D'ARGO(O.S.)
What about --
Aeryn ignores him and switches off the comm as she starts to jog down the street.
INT. MOYA, CARGO BAY -- LATER
Zahavi's two marines are sitting on cargo containers. There's an ugly cut on Marine #1's head and Marine #2 is cradling his arm. Jool is tending to them in a not so gentle way.
MARINE #1
Ouch.
Jool punctuates every word she says with a forceful little dab of the cut
JOOL
Perhaps you won't try to climb into the ceiling again.MARINE #2
We were doing our duty.JOOL
To what? Plummet to your deaths? Fine, but do it someplace I don't have to clean it up.
She slaps a bandage onto Marine #1 and turns to Marine #2.
JOOL
Let me see your arm.
Marine #2 looks at her with a rather horrified expression on his face. Marine #1 glares at her and rubs his forehead.
MARINE #2
No.
Jool stands back and puts her hands on her hips.
JOOL
Am I the only person with a brain in this part of space? You listen to me, I am tired of all the stupidity on this ship
and I refuse to put up with any more. You will give me your arm now.MARINE #2
No.
The doors open then and the trio turn to look. Rygel enters.
RYGEL
Pilot said there was some sort of commotion down here. Are you alright and more importantly is the cargo alright?
Rygel flies over to check the seal on one of the cargo containers.
JOOL
I'm fine, it's fine. These two geniuses thought they'd try and kill themselves.
Jool turns back to her patients but they've started to sneak off.
JOOL(CONT'D)
Hey!
The pair make a break for it and run out of the cargo bay.
JOOL(CONT'D)
Just wonderful. Thank you so much, Rygel.RYGEL
What did I do?
Jool sighs and begins to collect her medical kit.
JOOL
Nothing. Has Aeryn found Crichton? Can we get out of here yet?RYGEL
Yes and no. And in keeping with our usual good fortune, there's a marauder group on its way.JOOL
You know, sometimes I really hate my life.RYGEL
Well apparently Crais has a plan.JOOL
I hope it's better than Crichton's.RYGEL
Almost anything would be.
INT. TALYN, BRIDGE -- LATER
Crais is standing rigidly in the middle of the bridge. His face is tight and his eyes are dark with emotion. He stands absolutely still for a very long moment. When he finally speaks his voice breaks sharply through the quiet deck.
CRAIS
Talyn, record for relay.
Talyn blinks and chirps back at him.
CRAIS(CONT'D)
In less then two arns a marauder group will enter this system and attempt to take these two ships. You will transmit the kill codes to us immediately if you wish to acquire Crichton. If you think to betray this, I assure you I will put that which you most desire, permanently out of your reach.
Crais takes a deep breath, clasps his hands behind his back and raises his chin.
CRAIS(CONT'D)
Encrypt and transmit on secure channel.
INT. SCORPIUS'S OFFICE, COMMAND CARRIER -- LATER
Scorpius is sitting at his desk, viewing the transmission from Crais. Braca stands at his shoulder.
CRAIS
I will put that which you most desire, permanently out of your reach.
The transmission cuts off and Scorpius sits back with a scowl on his face. He's scowling not at the demand but at the implied threat. Braca can sense Scorpius's mood and he looks uncomfortable but wisely remains silent for the moment.
Scorpius makes a low growl of distaste and leans towards his desk.
BRACA
You're not really --
Scorpius stops and turns his head slowly to look at Braca. Braca stammers a bit and steps back. Scorpius turns back to his desk and punches a command into the console.
EXT. CITY ON PLANET -- MORNING
Crichton and Chiana are in yet another alley. They are hunkered down next to a loading dock. In the background, across the way you can see a building in flames. Crichton is fiddling with his gun and Chiana is crouched anxiously next to him.
CHIANA
I'm just saying he was kinda drad.CRICHTON
And he was shooting at you.CHIANA
So?
There are shouts and angry voices coming from the direction of the flaming building. Chiana pokes her head around the dock and drops back down again quickly.
CHIANA(CONT'D)
Where did you park your module again?
Crichton jerks his head towards the building next to them.
CRICHTON
'Bout half a metra that way.
Crichton bangs his hand on the top of his pistol then swears loudly and pulls the cartridge out.
CRICHTON(CONT'D)
Frell it.CHIANA
Aww, you having trouble getting it in?
He grunts in reply and his attention is focused on his weapon. Chiana grins wickedly at him.
CHIANA(CONT'D)
Lot of guys have that problem.
Crichton looks up and gives her a slow grin.
CRICHTON
I never have that problem, baby. My gun on the other hand ...
Chiana laughs but they're distracted by the sound of shouts getting closer. Chiana looks around the loading dock, her pistol ready. Crichton pulls out the cartridge one more time and checks the top of his pistol.
CRICHTON(CONT'D)
Come on, Winona.AERYN
Would you frelling name a gun that works?
Chiana spins around in shock, her pistol pointing at Aeryn who appears out of the darkness behind them. Crichton barely spares Aeryn a look.
CRICHTON
Hey Pip, check it out, the cavalry.
He tries the cartridge one more time, jamming the heel of his hand down on it and he finally succeeds. He stands up and gives Aeryn a challenging look.
Aeryn watches him silently then looks to Chiana. Behind them, the building that was in flames suffers a series of explosions. The shouts from the street change from anger to alarm. Chiana looks back at the street and then tugs on Crichton's coat.
CHIANA
Let's go, Crichton.
Crichton relents and the trio start down the alley at a slow jog. They stop at the corner to make sure the street beyond is clear. Aeryn moves up next to Crichton as Chiana sticks her head around the building.
AERYN
Were you planning on coming back to the ship today?CRICHTON
I had something to do.AERYN
There's a Marauder group coming.CRICHTON
Sounds like fun.
Chiana turns back to them and looks back and forth between them for a second. She nods her head towards the street.
CHIANA
It's clear.
Crichton acknowledges her report and waves her on, raising his pistol to cover her dash across the street. He's about to cross after her when Aeryn reaches out and catches his arm.
CRICHTON
I don't need your help here, Aeryn. Go back to the transport pod, we'll meet you on Moya.
Aeryn lets him go and silently watches him cross the street.
INT. MOYA'S LANDING BAY -- LATER
Crichton and Chiana have just climbed out of his module. Crichton is chuckling over something and Chiana has a large grin on her face. The grin slips a bit when she spots D'Argo standing by the door into the bay. D'Argo looks like he's a heart beat away from a hyper rage. Aeryn walks over from the transport pod, but she hangs back a bit.
D'ARGO
(growling)
Crichton.
Crichton keeps his smile firmly in place and starts to walk towards the door.
CRICHTON
D.D'ARGO
(growling louder)
Crichton.CRICHTON
D'Argo, do not harsh my mellow.D'ARGO
I am not marshing your jello.
D'Argo sighs and crosses his arms.
D'ARGO(CONT'D)
Do you have any idea what kind of position you put us in?CRICHTON
Trust me, I have a real good idea.D'ARGO
So what exactly did you think you were doing?CRICHTON
I went down there to get Chiana. You remember Chiana, don't you?D'ARGO
Of course I remember Chiana. But ...
D'Argo falters a bit at the glare Chiana is sending his way.
CHIANA
But what, D'Argo?D'ARGO
I -- I ...CHIANA
Yeah, thanks.
Chiana pushes past him and out the door. Crichton smirks and thumps D'Argo on the shoulder with his fist.
CRICHTON
Smooth move, buddy.
D'Argo's just a little confused by how quickly the conversation came back on him.
D'ARGO
Wait, what just happened?AERYN
(to D'Argo)
Did you talk to Crais?D'ARGO
Yes. He said he'd take care of it. Whatever that means.AERYN
Good. Where's the lieutenant?CRICHTON
Lieutenant?D'ARGO
Frell if I know. Pilot has DRDs watching him.CRICHTON
We have a lieutenant?
INT. MOYA'S AMNEXUS CHAMBER -- CONTINUOUS
Lieutenant Zahavi is drenched in amnexus fluid and is trying to climb out of the channel. There are half a dozen DRDs on the walkway watching him and chittering.
ZAHAVI
That wasn't funny.
Jool enters the chamber with some bit of soiled clothing in her hand. She stops and raises an eyebrow at the sight of the damp officer.
JOOL
Oh for frell's sake. Are you all gravitationally challenged?ZAHAVI
Give me a hand?
Jool smirks.
JOOL
I really don't think so.
She flounces out and leaves Zahavi with his DRD tormentors.
Zahavi finally manages to pull himself out of the fluid, and he sits on the edge of the walkway, looking quite waterlogged. He glares at the DRDs who chitter back happily.
MARINE #1(O.S.)
Sir, sir, are you there? Sir?
Zahavi fumbles for his comm.
ZAHAVI
Yeah, I'm here. Where are you?MARINE #1(O.S.)
We're, uh ... um, where are we?MARINE #2(O.S.)
(muffled)
The, er, I think the starburst chamber.ZAHAVI
Goddess, just don't break anything.MARINE #1(O.S.)
Yes, sir. We've had a comm from Captain Roer. Peacekeepers, sir.
EXT. SPACE -- MOMENTS LATER
A marauder group of three marauders and six prowlers enters Aalst system space.
INT. TALYN, BRIDGE -- CONTINUOUS
Crais stands confidently on the bridge. Watching the marauder group approach.
CRAIS
Very good, Talyn. Keep out of their sensor range.
INT. MARAUDER COCKPIT -- CONTINUOUS
MARAUDER PILOT #1
We have a lock on the leviathan. I don't see the hybrid.MARAUDER PILOT #2 (O.S.)
Copy that. We're going wide. Eyes open.MARAUDER PILOT #1
Copy.
INT. TALYN, BRIDGE -- CONTINUOUS
Crais is very calm, very cold, very controlled. He speaks to Talyn, softly, almost seductively.
CRAIS
Weapons lock on them, Talyn. That's right. Stay focused. They're after Moya and you're the only one who can protect her.
Crais is working at one of the consoles. He enters a code and then calls out the command to Talyn.
CRAIS(CONT'D)
Now Talyn! Fire!
EXT. SPACE -- CONTINUOUS
Talyn, has taken the marauder group by surprise. He fires on the group, quickly taking out one of the prowlers.
INT. MARAUDER COCKPIT -- CONTINUOUS
PROWLER PILOT (O.S.)
Hybrid, hammond side!MARAUDER PILOT #1
Moving to engage.
EXT. SPACE -- CONTINUOUS
The rest of the group banks to engage Talyn, but as they start their turn the marauders seem to veer off course and slow. Meanwhile, Talyn takes out another of the Prowlers.
INT. MARAUDER COCKPIT -- CONTINUOUS
The control panels in the cockpit are dead. The pilot punches buttons frantically and tries to get power back to his systems.
MARAUDER PILOT #2 (O.S.)
We've lost power.MARAUDER PILOT #1
Copy that. So have we.
INT. PEACEKEEPER PICKET OPERATIONS CENTER -- CONTINUOUS
The operations center of the picket for Garceau, the next system over from the Aalst system. Captain Racklin is monitoring the marauder group's actions.
The marauder pilot's voice is tense.
MARAUDER PILOT #1(O.S.)
The hybrid has killed three of the prowlers and our systems are dead, sir.RACKLIN
Tell me exactly what happened.MARAUDER PILOT #1(O.S.)
We moved to engage, sir, and --
The transmission is cut off suddenly, and the captain is left with a black screen. Racklin turns to bark at one of the officers manning the comms.
RACKLIN
Get them back!COMM OFFICER
The group is not responding, sir.RACKLIN
Prowlers?COMM OFFICER
No, sir.
Racklin stares at his monitors for a long moment as he tries to puzzle out what happened. His face grows harder and harder.
RACKLIN
I want a secure comm to High Command in my office immediately.
Racklin turns and starts out of the room.
COMM OFFICER
Yes, sir.
INT. TALYN, BRIDGE -- CONTINUOUS
Crais is looking out at the remains of the marauder group. Talyn has just destroyed the last prowler. Crais clasps his hands behind his back and there's a small smile on his lips.
CRAIS
Very good, Talyn. Very good.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
INT. GRAYZA'S SHIP, CORRIDOR -- LATER
Commandant Mele-on Grayza moves smoothly down the corridor of her ship. She is a striking woman who exudes confidence, strength, and cold, calculating ability. As she walks, any of the crew who are in her path scramble to get out of her way, they push themselves against the walls and stand rigidly at attention. She pays them little mind, however, as she is engaged in a conversation with the ship's Captain.
GRAYZA
Tell the Luxan ambassador I'll meet with him tomorrow.CAPTAIN WYSTAND
Yes, Commandant.GRAYZA
Where are we with Scorpius?CAPTAIN WYSTAND
We don't have a fix on his current location, however, I did pick up a memo from High Command sub-channels that the retrieval squad sent for the hybrid and its captain was six arns overdue on its last status report.GRAYZA
When did that come through?CAPTAIN WYSTAND
Less than an arn ago, Commandant. They were bound for a small system on the edge of our space.GRAYZA
Very well --
A Lieutenant runs up and interrupts their conversation.
LIEUTENANT
Commandant, High Command has rerouted a flagged transmission to you.GRAYZA
I'll take it in my quarters.
(to Captain)
With me, please, Captain.
INT. PEACEKEEPER PICKET COMMANDER'S OFFICE -- LATER
Captain Racklin is clearly agitated, moving from angry to anxious and back again, while he waits for the comm to go through to High Command.
COMM OFFICER
Sir, relay to High Command established. Commandant Grayza.RACKLIN
Put her through.
Commandant Grayza appears on screen. The captain unconsciously comes to attention and surreptitiously adjusts his coat.
GRAYZA
What do you have for me, Captain?RACKLIN
Commandant. Several arns ago I sent a marauder group to take John Crichton and the rogue leviathans. The entire marauder group was killed.GRAYZA
Where was this?
Captain Racklin is still somewhat in shock from losing so many ships under his command. He is a small picket and losing the entire marauder group was a huge blow. He rambles a bit to the Commandant.
RACKLIN
The Aalst system. I sent a full group. They're all dead. The kill code. Somebody had the kill code, the group was disabled remotely.GRAYZA
I see.RACKLIN
The hybrid must be capable of accessing secure Peacekeeper transmissions. We were never informed that it had the capability --GRAYZA
Captain Racklin. I want you to send your remaining ships to take the hybrid.RACKLIN
Commandant, the kill codes --GRAYZA
Will not be a problem. By the time your group gets there the codes will have cycled again.RACKLIN
But --GRAYZA
Do as I say, Captain. It is imperative that you take the hybrid's logs in tact. Is that clear?RACKLIN
Yes Commandant. What about John Crichton?GRAYZA
Take him if you can. Kill him if you can't.
INT. GRAYZA'S OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS
Grayza kills the comm and sits back. Her captain is at her shoulder.
CAPTAIN WYSTAND
That system was the target location for the retrieval squad.GRAYZA
Find Scorpius's last known position.
Captain Wystand clicks her heels and exits.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- LATER
The entire crew are on Command. D'Argo, Rygel, Chiana and Jool are on one side of the room, while Crichton and Aeryn sit next to each other at the map table. They are both tense and uncomfortable.
AERYN
Just walk right in?CRICHTON
Simple, clean --AERYN
Insane.CRICHTON
Do you have a better suggestion?AERYN
No.
They fall into a moment of uneasy silence.
AERYN(CONT'D)
Your knuckles are bleeding again.CRICHTON
It's fine.AERYN
You should have Jool --CRICHTON
It's fine, Aeryn.AERYN
Fine.CRICHTON
Good.
Rygel flies over to them, he is followed by Jool and Chiana.
RYGEL
We need to leave now.AERYN
Have you forgotten we're surrounded?CRICHTON
We could leave, but that would be all kinds of messy.
Chiana sits down next to Crichton.
CHIANA
And end badly for somebody.JOOL
Probably us.RYGEL
Talyn just destroyed a marauder group, the Merchant Patrol can't possibly think they can hold us.CRICHTON
Sparky, we don't want to kill these guys.AERYN
And we still need to get the Lieutenant off this ship.RYGEL
Are you people making this difficult for a reason?JOOL
Yes.
D'Argo yells out from the other side of the room.
D'ARGO
And we need to wait for Scorpius.
Rygel huffs impatiently.
PILOT
We're receiving a transmission from the planet. An Admiral Yarak.
Crichton and Chiana exchange a glance but remain seated as the others move towards the comm console.
D'ARGO
Put him through.YARAK
Greetings.D'ARGO
What do you want, Admiral?
Rygel flies over and pushes D'Argo out of the way.
RYGEL
Let me deal with him.
(to Yarak)
I am Dominar Rygel the XVI. I demand that you call off your ships and let us on our way.YARAK
Dominar, I fear there has been a terrible misunderstanding.RYGEL
Misunderstanding indeed. You've had our ship boarded, our holds poked and prodded, and you've been holding us here for arns.YARAK
I am more than willing to release you and your ship, however, I do believe a personnel exchange is in order first.RYGEL
What type of exchange?YARAK
I am certain you'd like your crew mates back and we would like our Lieutenant returned to us.
Crichton and Chiana, who are still sitting at the map table and cannot be seen by Yarak, smile at each other. Crichton reaches over and pokes Chiana in the arm.
CRICHTON
Yep, you're here.
Aeryn darts a look over at them and frowns back at Yarak.
AERYN
Our crew mates?RYGEL
(to Aeryn)
Shut up.
(to Yarak)
What do you propose, Admiral?YARAK
We have both been the victims of the pirates that, sadly, plague our trading lanes. Our system has been infested for some time, but your Commander Crichton and his friend were quite effective in dealing a rather crippling blow to their operation.
Crichton is making a yapping motion with his hand and Chiana is smirking, trying not to laugh.
RYGEL
Hm, good for him.YARAK
As a show of gratitude, we'd like to safely return them to your ship and retrieve our officer. However, your second ship is quite ... formidable. You will need to guarantee the safety of our vessels.RYGEL
An entirely reasonable request, Admiral.YARAK
Excellent. I'll comm back in, say, an arn with the arrangements?RYGEL
Wonderful. I can't wait.
Rygel cuts the comm.
CHIANA
He is so full of dren.
Crichton starts to laugh.
CRICHTON
That son of a bitch is dirtier than a pig in shit.AERYN
You know him?CRICHTON
Sure, we go way back.CHIANA
We blew up one of his warehouses.JOOL
What are you talking about?CHIANA
He's the fekik pirate king.
There is a sound of groaning metal followed by a yelp and then a thump as Lieutenant Zahavi falls out of the ceiling. The crew stop and stare at the sprawling officer. A lone DRD sits up in the hole the Lt. just fell through and it makes a noise that sounds suspiciously like "ha-ha".
Crichton grins and points up at the DRD.
CRICHTON
I did that.AERYN
You need a hobby.CRICHTON
Got one.
(to the DRD)
Do it again.
The DRD 'laughs' again.
JOOL
You are demented.CRICHTON
So this is our Lieutenant?
D'Argo pulls Zahavi up by his collar.
D'ARGO
It is.
Zahavi shakes himself loose from D'Argo's grasp and straightens his uniform.
ZAHAVI
Lieutenant Sayre Zahavi. A pleasure to meet you Commander Crichton.
Crichton smirks.
CRICHTON
Sure it is.
INT. TALYN, BRIDGE -- LATER
Crais is on the bridge, checking systems, moving from console to console. Occasionally he touches the transponder on the back of his neck.
CRAIS
Talyn, run a diagnostic on your secondary weapon systems. I'm showing fluctuations in the power relays.
Talyn chirps back at him.
CRAIS(CONT'D)
No, you need to correct these systems. Now is not the time to allow yourself to be distracted by trivial things. Focus, Talyn, focus.
Comm activates and it's Crichton on the other end. Crais responds somewhat distractedly.
CRAIS(CONT'D)
Crichton.CRICHTON
How's it going over there? Moya says she's getting some weird feelings from Talyn. Mama's a little worried.CRAIS
We are running maintenance checks and he is finding the sun spots more intriguing than attending to his duties.CRICHTON
Kids. I want to have a face to face about what our next step's gonna be.CRAIS
I cannot leave now.CRICHTON
Look, Scorpius will be at the meeting point in less than eight arns and these rent-a-cops are trying to stall us.CRAIS
There's another retrieval squad on the way.CRICHTON
Probably.CRAIS
It's what I'd do.CRICHTON
Well we somehow ended up in the middle of a local political situation.CRAIS
You have an absolute gift, Crichton.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- CONTINUOUS
Crichton is silent for a moment, a hint of irritation starting to show.
CRICHTON
You wanna get your ass back over here so we can talk about this?CRAIS
Talyn needs to be prepared for what's to come.CRICHTON
Talyn's a big boy, and I'm sure mom can watch him for a few arns.CRAIS
I can't leave now. But, trust me --CRICHTON
That would be the problem right there, Crais, I don't trust you. I want to --CRAIS
The other John did.
Crichton grits his teeth as he goes from mild irritation to a healthy dose of anger.
CRICHTON
I am not the other guy and you're not my friend, Bialar. Everybody else may think you're warm and fuzzy, but I remember who you are. And, the only reason you're even here now is because you stole Talyn then went out and got your asses kicked by the Peacekeepers and had to run home to mama.CRAIS
We both have the same goal, Crichton - Scorpius.CRICHTON
Yeah, our good buddy Scorpy. Thing is Crais, if you weren't such a psychopath that eventhe PKs didn't want you anymore, you wouldn't have had to jump ship to saveyour own hide and that'd still be your command carrier.That'd be you out there hunting me down, just like you did for the first cycle I was out here.CRAIS
What do you want from me, Crichton?
INT. TALYN, BRIDGE -- CONTINUOUS
CRICHTON
I want you to come over here and tell me everything you know about that damn carrier. I want this over with, now.CRAIS
I want the same thing. I am weary of this endless pursuit. But understand this, there are things I must take care of first. And may I remind youthat Officer Sun was born and raised on a command carrier- she knows almost as much about them as I do.
Crais cuts the comm and goes back to what he was doing before he was interrupted. Talyn blinks and chirps at him.
CRAIS(CONT'D)
You needn't concern yourself with Crichton. He'll not be a problem you'll need to deal with for much longer. You must stay focused on defending Moya from threats to her.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- CONTINUOUS
Crichton is staring at the comm console. He is clearly livid but he's trying to calm himself down.
D'ARGO
John?CRICHTON
What? Yeah, what is it, D'Argo?D'ARGO
Our little friend is ready to help us.
Crichton looks back over his shoulder towards the table where the rest of the crew are gathered with Lt. Zahavi.
CRICHTON
That's mighty decent of him.D'ARGO
Isn't it.CRICHTON
You trust him?D'ARGO
Well, he's been loose on Moya for a few arns with orders to disable her and the only damage he's managed has been to himself.CRICHTON
That's not saying much.D'ARGO
No and we're having our standard luck with our friends in this system.CRICHTON
It's always something.
Crichton pushes away from the console and he and D'Argo stride over to the table.
Chiana is leaning across the table, glaring at the lieutenant. Aeryn is sitting back, looking almost bored and Jool is looking absolutely completely bored.
ZAHAVI
You can trust me, you can. Look, I've helped you today. Haven't I helped you?CHIANA
Sure, if by helping you mean sneaking around the ship. I mean, that's my kind of helping.AERYN
Chiana.CHIANA
I'm just saying maybe the guy who tried to arrest you isn't the best one to trust.
Crichton sits down next to Chiana.
CRICHTON
She's got a point.ZAHAVI
But I didn't do anything!CHIANA
Is that 'cause you didn't want to do anything or 'cause you couldn't do it?JOOL
We should trust you because you weretoo incompetent to harm us?D'ARGO
Why don't we all just listen to what he has to say. We can space him afterwards.RYGEL
Talk fast and don't bore us or we'll get to see what color you turn in zero atmosphere.ZAHAVI
Right. Okay, look, I heard you talking about Admiral Yarak. You said he was in with the pirates, right?
Crichton and Chiana just watch him, neither making any indication of agreement or denial.
ZAHAVI(CONT'D)
Alright. If you have proof maybe I could do something about it.CRICHTON
Maybe? D'Argo, I think maybe the Lieutenant here wants off the ship the hard way.D'ARGO
I think you're right.Zahavi quickly follows Rygel's suggestion to "talk fast".
ZAHAVI
Wait! The Interior Ministry has been trying to find the insider for over a cycle. If what you say is true we can remove Admiral Yarak. But, you've got to understand, he's a living hero. He negotiated the treaties that got the Peacekeeper presence out of our system. I can't speak outagainst him without proof.CRICHTON
What kind of proof do you need?ZAHAVI
What kind of proof do you have?CRICHTON
Look kid, I don't know you from a hole in the wall. How do I know you'll really help?ZAHAVI
You brought the Peacekeepers here. Once they're here, they'll start protecting their trade routes and they'll never frelling leave. I want you out of my system. I want the Peacekeepers to stay out of my system. And I want those murdering
thieves brought down. If you leave that takes care of at least one problem and hopefully two. If I can get Yarak that takes care of a third.CRICHTON
Nice and tidy.ZAHAVI
Please.
Crichton stares at Zahavi for a long moment then reaches into his coat. He pulls out a small, rectangular ID chit. He places it on the table and rests his fingers on top of it. He taps it lightly and then pushes it towards the young officer.
CRICHTON
Will this work?
The sight of the chit leaves Zahavi a little stunned.
ZAHAVI
Where'd you get that?CRICHTON
I pulled it off Yarak. I've got a couple others here, too.
(to Aeryn)
See? I've got lots of hobbies.
Zahavi grabs up the ID.
ZAHAVI
It's perfect.
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
INT. D'ARGO'S SHIP -- LATER
D'Argo is sitting in the pilot's seat, working on his ship, trying to figure out its systems and prepare it for their rendezvous with Scorpius. Chiana enters quietly, looking around at things.
CHIANA
Hey, D'Argo.D'ARGO
Do not touch anything!
Chiana ignores him and sits down next to him.
CHIANA
I hear you guys contacted Scorpius.D'ARGO
We did.CHIANA
And you're gonna go meet him somewhere. Negotiate terms.D'ARGO
We are.CHIANA
That's tinked.D'ARGO
I agree. But Crichton is determined.CHIANA
To get himself killed.
D'Argo stops what he's doing and looks over at Chiana.
D'ARGO
He is right, though. If the knowledge he possesses is that dangerous then we can't let Scorpius have it.CHIANA
Frelling heroes. There's gotta be a better way though. Going onto a command carrier is suicide.D'ARGO
There is a very slim chance that we might survive.CHIANA
Great.D'ARGO
I don't see another way around it, right now.CHIANA
We could run far away.D'ARGO
Crichton was looking for Scorpius, we found Scorpius.
Chiana starts to fiddle with a console.
CHIANA
I really don't like this.D'ARGO
I'm really sorry to hear that ... would you mind not touching that? I just got it to work.
Chiana pushes herself up from the chair and leaves the ship, frustrated. D'Argo leans over and readjusts the dials.
INT. MOYA'S LANDING BAY -- MOMENTS LATER
Aeryn and Crichton are seeing Zahavi and his marines to their transport. Zahavi looks like he might be having second thoughts.
ZAHAVI
Perhaps it would be best if I stayed here. There could be a fire fight and your ship might be safer if my side knows that I'm on here.CRICHTON
You're a little too old to join the circus.ZAHAVI
What?CRICHTON
Go back to your ship, get your troops all rallied, get Yarak the hell out of his comfy little world. You do your job. We can handle ourselves.
Zahavi looks at Crichton thoughtfully for a moment.
ZAHAVI
Good luck, Commander.CRICHTON
You too, Lieutenant.
Crichton turns to leave but stops and looks at Aeryn.
CRICHTON
Aeryn?AERYN
I'll be there in a microt.
Crichton leaves.
Aeryn turns to the Lieutenant.
AERYN
I know you never intended to harm Moya and I know you're sincere in your desire to help us. Thank you.ZAHAVI
It's not too late to leave, you know? I don't know how many people in the Patrol are working with Yarak, but if you want to go, my ship can probably clear a path for you.AERYN
No.ZAHAVI
I don't understand you people. You're so determined to fight, so determined to carry on and yet here you're willing to turn yourselves over to a command carrier. I could do you the favor of killing you painlessly right now. It's more than you'll get from the Peacekeepers.AERYN
There is this knowledge out there. Knowledge that can destroy this system or any other like it. I've seen it destroy lives. I don't want to see it again.ZAHAVI
Turning yourselves in is going to stop that how?AERYN
It's a trade. Crichton has the knowledge, Scorpius wants it and is working on it. Scorpius won't kill us, he'll do whatever Crichton wants within reason in order to get what he wants. If Crichton stops Scorpius he stops the project.ZAHAVI
You don't --AERYN
I need to see this through to the end.
Zahavi accepts that with a reluctant nod.
ZAHAVI
I wish you a safe journey and good fortune then.AERYN
Thank you.ZAHAVI
I'll comm when we've got control of Admiral Yarak.AERYN
Right.
She turns and leaves.
INT. HALLWAY IN MOYA -- MOMENTS LATER
Chiana is lurking in the hallway. Aeryn enters from the landing bay and Chiana comes up next to her.
CHIANA
Do you really hate him this much?
Aeryn keeps walking, not even pausing.
AERYN
What are you talking about?CHIANA
Crichton. You're gonna let him go get himself killed.AERYN
I am not letting him do anything. Has everybody forgotten that this is Crichton's idea and not mine? If you don't like it, I suggest you talk to him about it.CHIANA
Don't you see what you're doing? You're making him ... fharbot!AERYN
Me? Chiana, if you think I'm going to take any responsibility for the fact that Crichton is --CHIANA
You didn't see him.
Chiana stops and grabs Aeryn's arm.
CHIANA(CONT'D)
You didn't see him while you were gone, you didn't see him down on the planet.
Aeryn glances at Chiana, annoyed and possibly disturbed.
CHIANA(CONT'D)
Yeah. And you know what? He shouldn't looklike that. Okay? He shouldn't look like he was just in the chair, you know? Like he doesn't know where to go or what anything is or ... or ... he just shouldn't.
Aeryn stands rigidly and expressionlessly.
CHIANA(CONT'D)
He was ... he wasn't happy when you were gone. Now you're back and he's sadder.
Aeryn finally can't take any more.
AERYN
Chiana!CHIANA
What?
Aeryn stares at Chiana, struggling with something, and when she manages to speak her voice is quiet but tight.
AERYN
You didn't lose him.
Aeryn leaves immediately not waiting for any reaction from Chiana. Chiana watches the other woman leave and mumbles to herself.
CHIANA
Yeah, well --
Chiana jerks spasmodically and has to catch herself on the wall. When the fit passes her eyes widen in fear and she takes off running.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- MOMENTS LATER
Crichton, D'Argo and Rygel are on command. They're looking out at some of the Merchant Patrol ships squaring off against each other.
D'ARGO
That's going to be a little ugly.RYGEL
It's no less than they deserve.CRICHTON
You're all heart, Buckwheat.RYGEL
I'm not the one who incited the civil war.CRICHTON
It's not my fault and it's not a war. They're just getting Yarak and his flunkies out of power.RYGEL
Oh, a military coup. Much better.
Chiana runs breathlessly on to command and stops abruptly when she sees the ships outside.
CHIANA
They're here.RYGEL
Who's here?
Chiana looks slightly confused.
CHIANA
Peacekeepers.PILOT
Moya's sensors are detecting the arrival of two marauder groups.CRICHTON
Good call, Pip.
Chiana goes from looking slightly confused to looking completely and totally confused.
CHIANA
No, that's not ... not what I meant. There's ... something else. More, I think. I don't know. She--
(shakes her head)
Can we get out of here, Crichton?CRICHTON
We're kinda stuck right now, Chiana.D'ARGO
It's starting.
Crichton looks out at the Merchant Patrol ships as they finally open fire on one another.
CRICHTON
Damn.
INT. ADMIRALTY HOUSE, CONFERENCE ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
Admiral Yarak stands at the head of the room. There are half a dozen other high-ranking officers with him.
ADMIRAL #1
This has moved up the timetable recklessly.COMMODORE #1
My ships in the rim fleet are prepared. However, they won't be in-system for at least an arn.YARAK
We knew this day would come. President Vharat is vulnerable, and our forces are ready to move now.ADMIRAL #1
It was supposed to be on our terms, Yarak, not the terms of an over-eager Lieutenant!ADMIRAL #2
You should have known better than to confront Crichton.COMMODORE #1
It brought the Peacekeepers right back here. They'll take control from us.YARAK
I can handle the Peacekeepers.ADMIRAL #1
This will all be for nothing if they decide they need to control trade again.YARAK
How could I have predicted Crichton's appearance?ADMIRAL #2
It was your team that attacked his ship, it's your responsibility. Have you found him, yet?COMMODORE #1
Report is he's back on his ship.ADMIRAL #1
Unacceptable. We could have used him to bargain with the Peacekeepers.YARAK
That is still my hope. Our forces are strong, we can contain those loyal to the President, and we will hand Crichton to the Peacekeepers.
The Commodore is distracted by a comm panel at his elbow.
COMMODORE #1
Vharat's forces are moving. They've got raiding parties on the streets and they've opened fire on our ships in-system.ADMIRAL #2
(to Yarak)
Time to clean up your mess, Admiral.
Yarak snarls and leaves the room.
EXT. SPACE -- CONTINUOUS
Nearly a dozen Merchant Patrol ships of various sizes are engaged in battle. Ship turns on ship. Searing cannon fire and brilliant explosions light up the surrounding space. In the middle, massive and steady, sits Moya. The ships swarm around her, using her as cover, to hide behind, but otherwise ignoring her.
INT. MOYA'S COMMAND DECK -- CONTINUOUS
Moya shudders violently and the crew struggle to keep their balance.