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Galaxycats
Episode 1 "Light in the Darkness"
1.
Space- Panthera
We see a turquoise and white planet. Superimpose:
"Planet Panthera, Sector Year 4531."
Two years ago, the F'lar army took over the government of
the Fessan people and declared war on the Pantherans, leaders of the Sector
Camera starts zooming in on the planet. Cut to:
2.
Landri village, Panthera
A town square, with a large fountain in the middle.
Camera zooms in on the square. Pantheran people (they look like humans) walk in
and out of shops, but we are interested in a fifteen-year old boy, Paul,
standing by the fountain. His twin sister, Vanilla, runs up to him.
PAUL
Where have you been, Vanilla? I was waiting ages.
VANILLA
Paul it says on the news that the F'lar have been spotted in this
region. There’s a chance they could attack here!
PAUL
Oh, come on, Vanilla, you can't believe they'd ever come to a little
village like this one.
Ironically enough, even as he says that, the sound of an
engine is heard, and a F’lar ship descends from the sky- smaller fighters begin
spilling out and attacking the village. Amidst the flames and confusion, many
are killed, including Paul. As the F’lar ships break off and move on, only
Vanilla is left alive, clutching the dead body of her brother.
Scene fades. Title and credits run.
3.
City Streets, Rienne
Superimpose-
"Fifteen years later. The F'lar now control a
significant segment of Panthera. The hopes of the Pantheran people lie with
Galaxycats, a military institution set up to combat the F'lar and end a war
that has been raging for over a decade.”
The words fade.
A Suntiger class skimmer is chasing a convoy down the
city streets. It fires on the convoy, destroying the trucks. Suddenly, a Falcon
behind the Suntiger fires on it. The Falcon turns onto the main thoroughfare
and it chases the Suntiger.
4.
Int. Suntiger
Vanilla, now a grown woman, is piloting.
VANILLA
Oh, come on, like you’re going to get anywhere flying like that.
5.
City Streets, Rienne
Vanilla outmanoeuvres the enemy ship and destroys it,
before flying back to the Galaxycats base.
6.
Captain
Vanilla is being lectured to by her commanding officer,
Captain
Commander Vanilla, this is the third time this octan I’ve had to call
you in here for going on an unauthorised patrol- I expect better behaviour from
a brand new recruit, let alone my own first officer!
VANILLA
Since I am your first officer, I should have enough authority to
schedule a few minor attacks, surely? And you have to admit that every one of
my missions has been entirely successful.
Commander, what are you doing is not only undermining my authority, but
endangering your own life and that of the teams who depend on you to do your
assigned tasks, not whatever takes your fancy!
VANILLA
Captain, if you’ll look at my record, you’ll see that this is what I do
best. I would go out there alone and put myself in danger than have to worry
about inferior pilots under my command.
A curious mixture of arrogance and nobility, is that what you’re trying
to sell me? I’ve no doubt it’s true, but I think there’s more to it than that-
you’re trying to get yourself killed, aren’t you? If that’s the case, then
listen to me- maverick pilots with no regard for their own lives are the last
thing I need at this command. Keep this up and I’ll see you grounded and thrown
out of Galaxycats!
VANILLA
Like it or not, I have been doing a good job here; ground me, and
you’ll lose the best pilot you have.
Vanilla walks out.
7.
F'lar Command Briefing Room, Rienne
F’lar commander Krelston is conferring with his
subordinates, including a Pantheran scientist named Malteazer.
KRELSTON
I know you have all been concerned with the losses we have incurred at
the hands of the Galaxycats of late; however, it is with no small amount of
pride that I am finally able to unveil to you the weapon that will turn the
tide. Doctor Malteazer, as director of the project, would you care to
elaborate?
MALTEAZER
We’re all well aware that the key to controlling any ground based
territory is highly dependent on attack-class skimmers, and that of late, F’lar
and Galaxycat skimmer technologies have been on a par with each other. In an
effort to break this stalemate, various F’lar research teams have been working
on a new type of alloy, keridanium, which will increase the structural
integrity of our skimmers by 20% over current models. Since my colleague Dr
Rabia Idale and myself were key to this project, it has been decided that the
prototype Kerida-class skimmers will be deployed here in Rienne.
KRELSTON
A schedule for the Kerida patrols is already being drawn up; Skimmer
Division, your people will be granted access to the prototypes to familiarise
yourselves with them in preparation for the first strikes. You are dismissed.
8.
Galaxycats Control Room, Rienne
Sheba and her command staff are there, including
Lieutenant Aquilegia and Ensign Marval.
AQUILEGIA
Captain, we’re receiving an unauthorised transmission- the identity
signature says it’s from someone called Lighthawk.
Please put it through to my office, Lieutenant.
9.
Sheba’s Office, Galaxycats, Rienne
I thought we weren’t scheduled to contact each other again for another
octan.
MALTEAZER
I’m afraid there’s no time for procedure now, Captain. That new development
I briefed you about before- the F’lar are now in a position to test it.
Is there anything we can do? Perhaps you could send us enough
information to come up with a countermeasure.
MALTEAZER
Captain, there really is no time for that- I know you wanted to wait a
little longer, but the only way you’ll be able to survive this is by bringing
me to Galaxycats.
You’re requesting an extraction?
MALTEAZER
I never wanted this double-life in the first place, but between that
and remaining loyal to the F’lar, I didn’t have much choice. But now there’s
nothing more I can do as a F’lar- there’s no more reason to keep me here.
Pause.
Very well, then- what exactly will you need?
MALTEAZER
I can steal a skimmer from the F’lar and pilot it easily enough, but
once they come after me, I’ll need backup if I’m ever going to make it to you
in one piece.
Leave it to me- I have just the pilot for the job.
10. Galaxycats Briefing Room,
Rienne
Sheba, Vanilla, Chief Engineer Willow, Doctor Opal, Lieutenant
Commander Sandy, Aquilegia, Lieutenant Tassel, Lieutenant Jupiter and
Lieutenant Sapphire are there.
OPAL
Captain, what’s this about? I don’t usually get called to briefings at
such short notice.
This may seem like rather an odd gathering, but each of you needs to
hear this. Over the past few years, I have been in contact with a double agent
within the F’lar, a scientist named Doctor Malteazer.
VANILLA
You can’t be serious- Malteazer’s a well-known collaborator; her name
comes up in contact with practically every F’lar scientific development!
That may be something of an exaggeration, Commander, but suffice to say
that however it appears, Malteazer has been providing us with information for
quite some time now. Unfortunately, the situation has recently changed, and the
doctor has now requested an extraction. Her plan is to leave F’lar Command by
skimmer tonight- Vanilla, Sapphire, Jupiter, you will form a support wing to
keep the F’lar off her back.
VANILLA
I vote we let them blow her up and be done with it.
That’s enough of your attitude, Commander. If you can’t bring Malteazer
back here safely, don’t bother returning yourself.
11. City Streets, Rienne
Vanilla, Sapphire and Jupiter leave the Galaxycats
hangar.
12.
Malteazer enters the hangar bay. Two guards approach her,
but she takes them both down. As she makes for the skimmers, however, Krelston
steps out of the shadows.
KRELSTON
Going somewhere, Doctor?
MALTEAZER
How did you…?
KRELSTON
I’m not some bumbling fool, Doctor- I have my sources. You should
actually feel honoured that I chose to deal with this personally rather than
just having you shot as soon as I found out about this little indiscretion.
MALTEAZER
You might as well shoot me- it’s the only way you’ll stop me leaving.
KRELSTON
Oh, I’m sure I can find a way can coerce you- just like I always have.
MALTEAZER
You…
Malteazer goes to tackle Krelston, but he draws a shock
stick and uses it on her. Just as it seems that Krelston has subdued Malteazer,
she grabs his arm and stares into his eyes. It is unclear what she does, but he
goes vacant long enough for Malteazer to get in a skimmer and take off. On
returning to his senses, Krelston activates a wrist communicator.
KRELSTON
Falcon squads, deploy- retrieve Doctor Malteazer!
13. City Streets, Rienne
Malteazer’s skimmer approaches Vanilla’s wing; a squadron
of Falcons is chasing after her.
14. Int. Vanilla's Skimmer
COMPUTER
Incoming transmission.
Malteazer appears onscreen.
MALTEAZER
If you’ve been sent here to help me, now’s the time to pitch in.
VANILLA
Did you have to bring us such a large welcoming party?
Vanilla contacts Sapphire and Jupiter.
Sapphire, escort the doctor back to Galaxycats. Jupiter, you and I will
provide covering fire.
15. City Streets, Rienne
Sapphire and Malteazer head away from the battle; Vanilla
and Jupiter try to delay the Falcons, but whilst Vanilla is able to evade enemy
fire, Jupiter’s skimmer is destroyed.
16. Int. Vanilla's Skimmer
VANILLA
Jupiter! Gods damn it, you’ll pay for this, F’lar.
17.
VANILLA
Hey, Captain, mind telling me what makes this c’ren so special that one
of my men lost his life trying to save her?
MALTEAZER
Captain, Commander, I am truly sorry that you lost an officer out
there. It seems that Krelston already knew what I was going to do, and had made
advance preparations.
VANILLA
A likely story- I bet you and Krelston cooked up that little trap
between you, didn’t you? You’ve probably been sent here as a spy!
MALTEAZER
Commander, I hardly expect you to trust me at this stage, but believe
me when I say that I hate the F’lar as much as you do.
VANILLA
Forgive me for being sceptical, but I don’t see much evidence of that
right now.
Regardless of what you think, Vanilla, I have been in contact with
Malteazer for some years, and I for one have every reason to trust her. Our
more pressing concern should be finding out how Krelston came to be so
well-prepared- we may well have a traitor among our own staff.
VANILLA
Oh sure, let’s trust the F’lar scientist who just randomly shows up
here and start suspecting our own people.
I’ve had my suspicions for a while now, Vanilla, and even if you don’t
believe me, I suggest you keep an eye out. Malteazer, for your own safety, I’ll
be assigning you a security detail for the time being.
MALTEAZER
Understood.
18. Russet's Bar, Rienne
The place is practically empty; Vanilla sips water at the
bar whilst bartender Russet attempts to strike up conversation.
RUSSET
Shouldn’t you be on duty, Commander?
VANILLA
I had to get away from that place for a while.
Vanilla sighs.
The F’lar invaded our world, now we’re fighting to get rid of them...so
when did everything get so complex?
RUSSET
The world’s always been complex, Commander- just because you chose to
see it in black and white doesn’t make it any less so.
VANILLA
Oh great, now I’m getting lectured by a bartender.
RUSSET
All part of the service.
19. Galaxycats Briefing Room,
Rienne
Sheba, Vanilla, Malteazer,
Bit of a sparse briefing room tonight.
I’ve called you here today so that Doctor Malteazer can share
information on the F’lar’s latest development- Doctor, if you would care to
elaborate?
MALTEAZER
The project in question centres around an alloy their top scientists
have been developing. Known as keridanium, it is lighter and tougher than the
current materials used in skimmer building, and will give their craft a distinct
advantage in battle.
VANILLA
And I suppose your input helped to make this stuff.
MALTEAZER
I didn’t have a great deal of choice in the matter.
Commander, that’s beside the point. Please continue, Doctor.
MALTEAZER
Before I left the F’lar, I ‘liberated’ some of their research,
including more specific details about keridanium. This has already been turned
over to Galaxycats, but a more pressing threat remains; Krelston already has a
number of keridanium skimmers under his command, and will be ready to use them
in battle any day now.
VANILLA
Let them come; I could pilot a truck and still out fly the F’lar!
And what about the people under your command? Your skills may well be
enough, but I’m sure you haven’t forgotten what happened to Lieutenant Jupiter.
Captain, even if we know about this threat, is there really anything we
can do at such short notice?
Our best hope is a pre-emptive strike at the F’lar facility where the
Kerida skimmers are being tested. Commander Vanilla, you’ll be in charge of
this strike; take whatever pilots you need.
MALTEAZER
Captain, I should go along too; although I’ve no doubt Krelston will
have changed the security protocols since my defection, my familiarity with
F’lar systems could be crucial to the mission.
VANILLA
This is a high risk mission, Doctor- I need people who can actually
fly.
MALTEAZER
I may not be up to your level, Commander, but I know how to handle a
skimmer.
I’m afraid Vanilla has a point, Doctor- I very much doubt that you’ve
had the chance to familiarise yourself with our style of skimmer interface.
Vanilla smiles.
However, your expertise would undoubtedly be useful on this mission.
Vanilla, Malteazer will accompany you in your skimmer.
VANILLA
I’ve told you before, Captain, I’m a solo flier- having her along will
only distract me.
Deal with it.
20. Galaxycats Hangar, Rienne
Vanilla and Malteazer are walking towards their craft.
MALTEAZER
Commander, you’ve made it plain that you don’t think much of me, and
quite frankly, I couldn’t care less. I would ask, however, that we try to put
our differences aside whilst on this mission.
VANILLA
Just because I’ve got the guts to speak my mind doesn’t mean that I
can’t be professional. I’d think twice before trying anything if I were you,
though.
MALTEAZER
Although I’d hardly expect an officer as unimportant as you to be aware
of it, I’ve been risking my life for the same cause as you for many years now-
I just had the intelligence to work undercover instead of mindlessly blasting
everything in my path.
VANILLA
If not for a mindless person like me, this base wouldn’t be here, and
you’d still be licking Krelston’s backside. Then again, maybe that’s the kind
of thing you liked to do-
Malteazer slaps Vanilla; Vanilla just smiles. Sapphire,
Jeffrey, Rusleem and various other pilots arrive.
Ready, everyone? Then let’s do this.
21. City Streets, Rienne
A squad of Galaxycats skimmers takes off and divides into
three groups.
22. Int. Vanilla’s Skimmer
VANILLA
You’d better be able to remotely hack the F’lar computers, or else
we’re all going to get blasted.
MALTEAZER
You do your job, and I’ll do mine.
Malteazer brings up a computer interface and begins work.
23. City Streets, Rienne
One of the Galaxycat groups runs into the one thing they
least wanted to see- a Kerida task force.
24. Int. Vanilla’s Skimmer
COMPUTER
Incoming transmission.
Jeffrey appears onscreen.
JEFFREY
Commander, it’s the Keridas! They’re already using them!
The screen flashes white.
COMPUTER
Contact lost.
VANILLA
Damn it! We trusted you again and look what happened.
MALTEAZER
This isn’t my fault!
VANILLA
Then tell me how to fight those things.
MALTEAZER
You can’t- they’re faster and stronger than you. Our best bet is to
retreat.
VANILLA
Like hell I’m going to.
Vanilla sends a communication to the remaining Galaxycat
skimmers.
Okay, everyone, it looks like the Keridas have done us the favour of
coming to us. As of this moment, we’re abandoning the base attack and engaging
them instead.
Sapphire appears onscreen.
SAPPHIRE
Commander, facing a force like that is suicide. We should get back to
base.
MALTEAZER
Listen to your lieutenant- she talks sense at least.
VANILLA
If you want to get out of here, then go. I’ll face those b’reks alone
if I have to.
25. City Streets, Rienne
Vanilla and the Galaxycat forces engage the Keridas- it
is an uneven match, and few Galaxycats survive.
26. Galaxycats Hangar, Rienne
Vanilla’s depleted force returns. As Vanilla and
Malteazer climb out of their skimmer,
What the hell just happened out there, Commander?
VANILLA
Once again, it looks like they knew we were coming- thanks to a certain
someone.
MALTEAZER
How many times do I have to tell you that this isn’t due to me?
I believe you, Malteazer, but at any rate, that’s beside the point.
Commander Vanilla, many lives have been lost tonight because you chose not to
withdraw earlier. That is not the action of a person I can trust to do a good
job as my first officer.
VANILLA
Captain, I…it was an error in judgement…
You are suspended from duty until further notice. Doctor Malteazer, it
is more imperative than ever that we find a way to combat these Kerida
fighters- I trust we have your assistance in that.
MALTEAZER
I will do what I can, Captain.
27. Vanilla's Quarters
Vanilla is there; the doorchime sounds and
VANILLA
Shouldn’t you be busy retooling engines or something?
Vanilla, I heard about what happened earlier- I just wanted to see how
you were doing.
VANILLA
Oh really? You shouldn’t have bothered, I mean, what could possibly be
wrong? I’m totally fine with the fact that Sheba is now relying on a F’lar
traitor over her own first officer, I’m delighted that every time I fly my
skimmer the F’lar are waiting to attack me, and I’m positively ecstatic that I
just managed to get my own squadron massacred!
Vanilla, in all the years I’ve known you, you’ve always acted like you
have something to prove. Maybe it’s about time you get that chip off your shoulder.
VANILLA
Or maybe it’s about time I admitted that I’m never going to fit in at
Galaxycats and just got the hell out of here.
You’re not still going on about that, are you? Vanilla, you’ve already
made it to the rank of commander, so you must be doing something right.
VANILLA
I’m sure Captain
Then what exactly are you going to do?
VANILLA
I thought I might join the Nightriders.
You have to be joking. They’re little better than terrorists, and
poorly armed ones at that.
VANILLA
Maybe so, but they’re out there fighting the F’lar without being tied
down to a bunch of pointless rules and regulations.
Vanilla, think about what you’re saying-
VANILLA
I’ve already thought about it. My decision’s as good as made.
28. Galaxycats Control Room,
Rienne
Sheba, Aquilegia, Marval, Tassel and others are there.
AQUILEGIA
Captain, sensors have just flagged an unauthorised skimmer launch in
progress. According to the access codes, it’s Commander Vanilla.
I thought Vanilla had been locked out of the central computer. Make
sure she doesn’t leave the hangar.
AQUILEGIA
Too late, Captain. Should we send out pilots after her?
We’re far too understaffed to chase after Vanilla right now.
Is there something you need, Commander Willow?
She actually did it, didn’t she?
I assume we’re talking about Vanilla here. If you have any information
as to what in hell she thinks she’s doing, now would be a good time to share
it.
She…she’s gone to join the Nightriders.
29. City Streets, Rienne
Vanilla’s skimmer speeds through the streets and reaches
the Nightriders base.
30. Int. Vanilla's skimmer
COMPUTER
Incoming transmission.
A female Velassian appears onscreen.
VELASSIAN
Galaxycat skimmer, stand down or we will fire on you.
VANILLA
I see Nightriders haven’t lost any of their famed hospitality. I’m not
here to cause trouble- I’ve come to sign up to your cause.
VELASSIAN
We don’t need self-righteous Galaxycat c’rens here- go find somewhere
else to play.
VANILLA
Oh come on- an organisation like yours can’t afford to be picky. I bet
you couldn’t find a skimmer or a pilot to match me- and besides, I’m as fed up
with Galaxycats as you are.
The Velassian thinks for a moment, and then smiles
mockingly.
VELASSIAN
Heh, I guess we might have some use for you after all. Just don’t
expect us to go easy on because you’re used to living the soft life.
VANILLA
I’d be disappointed if you did. I take it I have clearance to land.
VELASSIAN
Go right ahead.
31. Nightriders Hangar, Rienne
The hangar is something of a makeshift effort. The female
Velassian from the previous scene greets Vanilla.
VELASSIAN
So you’ve decided to join us in hell after all, Galaxycat.
VANILLA
The name’s Vanilla, Nightrider.
VELASSIAN
I’m Kirix. Nice skimmer you got there- wouldn’t be surprised if someone
took a fancy to it and decided to acquire it for themselves.
VANILLA
Let them try- they’ll get a nasty shock if they do.
KIRIX
Heh, maybe you aren’t so bad after all. Come on, let me show you around
this dump.
32. Corridors, Nightriders,
Rienne
Kirix takes Vanilla around the Nightriders building and
points out the facilities, all of which are very basic.
33. Nightriders Meeting Hall,
Rienne
Many disreputable looking people are gathered around.
Kirix pushes through them, and pulls Vanilla up onto a makeshift stage.
KIRIX
Hey everyone, we got ourselves a new recruit- a former Galaxycat, no
less. Let’s give her our warmest welcome.
The crowd breaks out into mock applause and laughter.
Vanilla looks distinctly uneasy.
34. Krelston's Office, F’lar
Command, Rienne
Krelston is talking to his deputy, Mirakova.
MIRAKOVA
Sir, I have the data from the latest Kerida attacks. It’s just as the
scientists promised- Galaxycats really can’t stand up to something like this.
KRELSTON
Now that we finally have the upper hand, it’s about time we put an end
to this conflict as quickly as possible. And with Rienne in our grasp, this
entire region is as good as ours.
MIRAKOVA
The Rienne Galaxycats surely cannot last much longer- not when our spy
is doing such a good job.
KRELSTON
Ah yes, that reminds me- it’s about time for her scheduled check-in.
Even as he speaks, Krelston’s communicator bleeps. He
accepts the transmission, and Sapphire appears on his computer screen.
Ah, Lieutenant Sapphire- your timing is as good as ever.
SAPPHIRE
Thank you, sir.
KRELSTON
So, Lieutenant, what have you got for me today? Your intelligence has
been particularly useful of late, and I’d hate to see your winning streak dry
up.
SAPPHIRE
Sir, an interesting development has come up- Commander Vanilla has left
Galaxycats to join Nightriders.
KRELSTON
That ineffectual terrorist group? Hmm, this could prove useful. Thank
you, Lieutenant- payment will be deposited in the usual account.
SAPPHIRE
Uh sir, before you sign off, there’s something you should know. I think
Captain
KRELSTON
Then I suggest you be careful, Lieutenant. Krelston out.
Krelston terminates the communication.
MIRAKOVA
You must be careful of that operative. She overestimates her own
importance, and that could make her dangerous.
KRELSTON
As long as she remains so easily influenced by money, Sapphire is nothing
to worry about. Rather, we should consider this new opportunity- the capture of
a Galaxycat commander and the intelligence we could extract from her.
MIRAKOVA
I will start making arrangements for Vanilla’s retrieval.
35. Nightriders Hangar, Rienne
Kirix, Vanilla and two other pilots are there.
KIRIX
Well then, Vanilla, I hope you’re ready to impress us with your
superior flying skills.
VANILLA
I’d be more concerned with how your pilots are going to keep up with
me.
Vanilla walks over to her skimmer, which has now been
painted black.
Hey, what the hell did you do to my skimmer?
KIRIX
It doesn’t look so much like a Galaxycat model anymore- means less
trouble all around. I assume the colour won’t affect how well you can fly it?
The other pilots snigger. Vanilla shoots them an annoyed
glance before climbing into her craft.
36. City Streets, Rienne
Vanilla and the other two Nightriders launch. They head for a F’lar communications outpost and commence their attack. A squad of Falcons mobilises to stop them- the two nameless Nightrider pilots are blown apart as they attempt to retreat. Vanilla has no choice but to return to base.
37. Nightriders Hangar, Rienne
Vanilla gets out of her skimmer. Kirix is waiting.
KIRIX
Looks like you made it back in one piece- not too shabby.
VANILLA
Two of your people died, and that’s all you can say?
KIRIX
It’s an acceptable loss if we can strike a blow against the F’lar.
VANILLA
A blow? You call targeting puny communications outposts a proper blow?
Then again, I suppose you’re not up to much, are you?
KIRIX
You seem to forget yourself, Commander. You were the one who wanted to
join us- that puts the burden on you to accept our ways. Life is cheap around
here- that’s just the way it is.
VANILLA
I can’t believe you- you’re so damned short-sighted. Do you really
think you can win with an attitude like that?
KIRIX
Winning, losing…since we’re never going to come out on top, does it
really matter? We don’t fight for some noble goal like you- we fight because we
don’t know how to do anything else.
38.
Ah, Commander Willow, I’m sorry to pull you away from skimmer repair,
but there is something I need to discuss with you.
What can I do for you, Captain?
I’m sure you’ve noticed that our missions seem to have been cursed with
a run of bad luck lately-
And I suppose you think it isn’t just bad luck.
You catch on quickly. Much as I hate to think of it, all the evidence
suggests that we have a mole inside Galaxycats.
With all due respect, Captain, was it really wise to bring that F’lar
here?
It may seem unfounded to you, but I trust Doctor Malteazer. Don’t
forget that I was in contact with her for some time prior to her extraction.
I’m not sure that I can put my faith in Malteazer so easily, but I will
accept your word- which means that the traitor is one of our people.
I don’t like the prospect of that any more than you do, but we can’t
afford to let this leak continue unabated. That’s why I’d like you to
investigate this problem for me.
Captain, I have no intention of refusing a direct order from you, but
why come to me with this? I’m swamped with work as it is, and surely
Based on the evidence, I believe the traitor to be amongst either my
pilots or command staff. I’m sorry to pull you away from your engineering
tasks, but you are the only person I can turn to for this.
Understood, Captain; I’ll do what I can.
39. Nightriders Hangar, Rienne
Vanilla and Kirix are there.
VANILLA
Why are you sending me out again? Do I even have an assigned mission?
KIRIX
Your mission is to destroy as many F’lar skimmers as you can.
VANILLA
And what will that achieve? Without a clear goal, I might as well just
blow my own skimmer up as go out and take a few pot shots at the F’lar.
KIRIX
You wanted to fight the F’lar, didn’t you? Well, I’m sorry, but this is
the best we can do for you.
Pause.
VANILLA
Fine- I’ll go out there, but don’t expect me to fight- I just need to
blow off some steam. And when I get back, there are going to be some changes
around here.
Vanilla gets into her skimmer.
40. City Streets, Rienne
Vanilla’s skimmer launches from the Nightrider hangar.
She heads out towards the Fringes, but is ambushed by a Kerida squadron.
Vanilla tries to flee, but is unable to do so.
41. Int. Vanilla's Skimmer
Vanilla is receiving a transmission from a Fessan.
FESSAN
Commander Vanilla, you are now in the custody of the F’lar. Please do
not attempt to resist.
42. City Streets, Rienne
The Kerida skimmers lock tractor beams on Vanilla’s
skimmer, and tow it away to the FC.
43. Hangar, F’lar Command, Rienne
Vanilla is stripped of all weapons and placed in a set of
magnetic proximity restraints, linked to a pair of guards. She is led out of
the hangar.
44. Krelston's Office, Rienne
Krelston is there. Vanilla is brought in by the guards
and forcibly seated.
KRELSTON
Ah, the infamous Commander Vanilla. At long last we meet.
VANILLA
So, Krelston, you finally got lucky.
KRELSTON
Oh, I assure you it was not a case of mere luck. A dear friend of mine
told me where to find you- and let’s just say the Nightriders were easily
swayed by the promise of a few credits.
VANILLA
Those b’reks, they sold me out!
KRELSTON
Now, now, Vanilla, there’s no need to get so worked up over a simple
business transaction- especially not when you’re about to help me with another.
VANILLA
You’ll have to put me through seven kinds of hell before I’d even think
about co-operating with you.
KRELSTON
An interesting request, and one which I’d normally be only too happy to
oblige. Unfortunately, Vanilla, much as my pilots hate you, in the grand scheme
of things, you just aren’t that important.
VANILLA
Why go to all the trouble of capturing me, then?
KRELSTON
Simply because I must have something to trade for what I really want.
You’ll see what I mean soon enough.
45. Computing Lab, Galaxycats,
Rienne
Willow is in a private booth, checking records. All signs
point to just the one officer.
This- this can’t be right.
Someone else enters the lab and approaches
SAPPHIRE
Found something interesting, Commander?
I think we both know what I found, Lieutenant. Now if you’d care to
come with me.
Sapphire draws a shock stick.
SAPPHIRE
Oh, I don’t think we’ll be going anywhere.
46. Galaxycats Control Room,
Rienne
Sheba, Aquilegia, Ensign Ferrero, Marval and Tassel are
on duty.
AQUILEGIA
Captain, I’m receiving a communication directly from F’lar Command.
This should be interesting. Onscreen.
Krelston appears onscreen. Vanilla is visible in the
background.
AQUILEGIA
Vanilla!
KRELSTON
Good day, Captain
Yes, it would seem so. I assume there is a price for getting her back.
Krelston smiles.
KRELSTON
I’ve always enjoyed talking with you, Captain
I can’t help feeling that you overestimate your own intellect, General.
Krelston laughs.
KRELSTON
Anyway, to business. What I would like in exchange for your first
officer is something that I myself lost quite recently- Doctor Malteazer.
You lost Malteazer a long time ago.
KRELSTON
Perhaps- or perhaps you know less about Malteazer than you think.
Either way, I’ll give you a little time to think about it. Shall we say a
radia’s time for my next contact?
Before we settle on anything, at least let me talk to Vanilla.
Krelston beckons to the guards, and Vanilla is brought
closer to the communicator.
I seem to remember telling you not to be so reckless.
VANILLA
And I seem to remember quitting Galaxycats. Don’t get me wrong, I
couldn’t care less what happens to that F’lar- but don’t give this guy what he
wants.
KRELSTON
All right, I think that’s enough. Be sure to have your decision ready
for me by the time I call back.
The communication ends.
AQUILEGIA
Captain, what are we going to do?
For now, you’re going to ask Doctor Malteazer to come to my office.
47. Computing Lab, Galaxycats,
Rienne
SAPPHIRE
I bet you’re thinking that you just need to stall me long enough for
security to come and rescue you. Unfortunately for you, I’ve already taken care
of that.
Sapphire manages to overpower
48. Sheba’s Office, Rienne
…Krelston hasn’t threatened any violence towards Vanilla if we don’t
comply to the trade, but I’ve no doubt it’s a card he’s willing to play if
necessary.
MALTEAZER
Captain, if you want to hand me over to the F’lar, then I will
understand. Your first priority should be towards your crew.
Doctor, I don’t want you to think for one moment that I called you here
to force you into agreeing to this trade. I’d be more interested in hearing
your advice on the situation.
MALTEAZER
Captain, I think you and I both know that there is no constructive
advice I can give. The only way I can help you is to go back.
But with your knowledge of the F’lar, we’re in a prime position to
mount a rescue.
MALTEAZER
A rescue would most likely involve my infiltrating F’lar Command; since
they want me to walk right in, I might as well take up their invitation.
Pause.
Captain, you already know that my conclusion is the only sensible
course of action. Trust me, I’ll get Vanilla out of there.
Very well, I’ll agree to the exchange.
49.
Sapphire has made it down to the hangar bay unnoticed,
supporting an unconscious
SAPPHIRE
Time to go.
Sapphire launches her skimmer.
50. Galaxycats Control Room,
Rienne
As before, only now Malteazer is also present.
AQUILEGIA
Incoming communication from the F’lar.
Here we go.
Krelston appears onscreen.
KRELSTON
So, Captain, have you made the right choice? Or will I need to give you
a few more incentives?
I agree to the terms of your exchange.
KRELSTON
Excellent. Bring no more than three skimmers to the northern plains
just outside the city. We will make our exchange there.
Krelston terminates the communication.
Malteazer, can we trust him to keep his word on this?
MALTEAZER
Krelston’s a cruel man, but he’s not stupid. If he’s set the rules for
this game, he’ll play by them.
51. Northern Plains, Rienne
The F’lar and Galaxycat delegations arrive in skimmers.
Mirakova, Vanilla+F’lar guards emerge from the F’lar skimmers,
What, didn’t Krelston have the guts to come in person?
MIRAKOVA
He hardly needs to waste his time on something like this. Now, let’s
get this exchange over with.
Vanilla is released, and the exchange begins. As Vanilla
and Malteazer walk past each other, Vanilla has to get in the last word.
VANILLA
Don’t think I’ll be thanking you for this any time soon, F’lar.
MALTEAZER
You must be in need of a serious ego check if you think that my actions
are at all motivated by you.
VANILLA
Yeah, you’re right- this is just going home for you, isn’t it?
MIRAKOVA
Come on, hurry it up.
The exchange is completed- both sides get in their
skimmers and go their separate ways.
52. Krelston’s Office, Rienne
Krelston is there. Mirakova and her guard lead Malteazer
in.
KRELSTON
Thank you, Mirakova, you may leave.
MIRAKOVA
Are you sure you want to be alone with her, sir?
KRELSTON
Are you having difficulty interpreting my orders, Mirakova? Perhaps you
need a physical exam to diagnose your defective hearing?
MIRAKOVA
No, sir.
Mirakova and the guards leave. Krelston’s manner
instantly changes, as he aims for charming and only manages slimy.
KRELSTON
Ah, Malteazer, so good to see you again. Did you enjoy your little trip
to Galaxycats?
MALTEAZER
It wasn’t a little trip, it was a defection.
KRELSTON
Ah yes, of course…you know, I understand that you are under a lot of
pressure, Malteazer. I can forgive you these little indiscretions.
MALTEAZER
Indiscretion? You don’t understand- I’ve been betraying the F’lar for
years!
Krelston laughs.
KRELSTON
Now, now, Malteazer, I believe you are the one who doesn’t understand.
At heart, you are a F’lar- and you are mine. I made you what you are.
Krelston approaches Malteazer, and runs a finger down her
cheek. She flinches.
You’re still afraid of me, aren’t you? Good.
MALTEAZER
Wha…what do you want from me? I won’t work on any of your projects
again!
KRELSTON
I will not deny that you have been of inestimable use to me as a
scientist, but that is not what I need you for now. I need a weapon, and for
that I must unlock what was sealed away long ago.
Krelston’s communicator bleeps. He moves to answer it.
What is it now? I’m busy.
F’LAR
Sir, we’ve been contacted by a Galaxycat skimmer who knows the codes.
Should we let her dock?
KRELSTON
Sapphire…yes, let her land, but keep her in the hangar bay. Oh, and
tell the guards to stop hanging around outside and take Doctor Malteazer to the
interrogation room.
53. Sheba’s Office, Rienne
VANILLA
So, I guess everything is pretty much back to normal now.
VANILLA
So we lost one F’lar- big deal.
I have to say that Malteazer has been a damn sight more helpful to me
in the last few days than you have been in the last few monai. Don’t think you
can just walk away from your last little stunt; the Nightriders are a terrorist
group, and you aided them.
VANILLA
Fine, pull me off duty, do whatever you have to do.
No witty defiance?
VANILLA
It’s not easy for me to say this but- I’ve done some stupid things. It
wouldn’t be right if I didn’t pay the price for that sooner or later.
I’m not sure why it happened, but you seem to have grown up a little.
You may come up to my expectations yet.
54.
Krelston meets Sapphire, who is in the company of two
guards.
KRELSTON
Lieutenant Sapphire, I assume there is a good reason that you are here-
and with a guest, too.
SAPPHIRE
Sir, I- I’m sorry. She found out what I was doing; all I could think of
was getting out of there.
KRELSTON
What a sloppy way to deal with the problem. If she was getting close to
you, you should have set a trap for her.
SAPPHIRE
Sir, I realise I made a mistake, but I can still be useful to you! Just
give me another chance!
KRELSTON
I don’t give liabilities like you multiple opportunities to fail me.
Corporal, take this Galaxycat and her companion and have them readied for the
processing facility. I understand that there are several projects that require
test subjects.
The guards take
SAPPHIRE
Wait, sir, don’t do this! I can give you essential information about
Galaxycats! Please, spare me!
Krelston ignores Sapphire’s pleas.
55. Interrogation Room, F’lar
Command
Malteazer is drugged and strapped into a chair; two
guards and a Fessan, Dr. Pallera, are there. Krelston enters.
PALLERA
What is it you want done with this one, sir? The usual?
KRELSTON
Leave this one to me, Pallera, I’ve dealt with her before.
PALLERA
As you wish.
Krelston attaches some kind of neural device to
Malteazer’s head and begins to adjust the settings. He moves back over to
Malteazer.
KRELSTON
How are you feeling, Malteazer?
Malteazer groans.
Now, now, this won’t be too hard. My device is stimulating the locked
area of your mind. Soon you will awaken to your true self again.
Malteazer suddenly becomes alert and starts struggling.
MALTEAZER
No, no, you mustn’t do this! Let me out of here!
Malteazer screams. Krelston alters the settings of his
device again and she falls silent, but her manner has changed as if a new
personality has emerged.
So, we meet again, old man.
KRELSTON
Doctor Malteazer?
MALTEAZER
Not quite. I am the one you were seeking to awaken.
KRELSTON
Then I am pleased to meet you.
MALTEAZER
Do not waste time with small talk. I already know what you want to use
me for.
KRELSTON
Then I assume you will be willing to cooperate? With your aid, I can end
this conflict quickly, and with a minimum of casualties on both sides.
Malteazer laughs, a dry and empty chuckle.
MALTEAZER
If there’s one thing I hate, it’s small-minded people like you. You
talk as if you cared about casualties, or ending the conflict, when all you
really want is to make sure your own interests are protected. Your petty
thoughts and desires disgust me.
KRELSTON
Then perhaps you can-
MALTEAZER
Don’t even finish that sentence. I have already seen into every corner
of your pathetic mind, and there is nothing there that interests me.
Krelston moves back to the device for more tinkering. He
activates some kind of pain setting.
KRELSTON
Since I am so petty and small, I had better start dealing with you in
the appropriate way.
Malteazer starts cursing at Krelston. As the pain level
increases, she mentally reacts somehow, and the device starts sparking, before
a blinding white flash occurs.
56. Brig, F’lar Command
Sapphire is imprisoned, two guards approach.
GUARD #1
Hey, I thought you said that other Pantheran was the last one. The
prison truck’s already left but we’ve got one more left.
GUARD #2
There wasn’t any room on the last truck. We’ll get this one examined
and tagged and then she can go first thing in the morning.
One of the guards opens Sapphire’s cell, but even as he
does so, the power goes down. Seizing her chance, Sapphire tackles Guard #2 in
the confusion, and goes for his gun. She aims it at Guard #1. He seems
unconcerned.
GUARD #1
Go ahead and try to fire it- our guns are keyed to our individual DNA.
Sapphire bludgeons him with the gun, knocking him out.
SAPPHIRE
Thanks for letting me know.
She runs off.
57. Interrogation Room, F’lar
Command
KRELSTON’S POV. Alarms are sounding. He opens his eyes
and the room gradually comes into focus. Malteazer is standing over him.
NORMAL VIEW. Pallera and the guards
KRELSTON
Malteazer…
MALTEAZER
Goodbye.
Malteazer uses some kind of psychic power to give
Krelston a brain haemorrhage. Blood runs out of his ears and nose, and he meets
an ignominious end. Malteazer aims a kick at his body, before striding out of
the room.
58. Reactor Room, F’lar Command
The alarms are still going. Mirakova talks to an engineer
as others work furiously at panels.
MIRAKOVA
What is going on?
ENGINEER
Somehow a power surge has caused an imbalance in the central power
core. There’s no way this should have been able to happen.
MIRAKOVA
Well, clearly it has happened. The question is- can you correct for the
problem?
ENGINEER
Sir, at this stage, it isn’t a case of correcting for the problem- all
we can do is try to hold it together long enough to evacuate everyone.
MIRAKOVA
If we stay in the city, Galaxycats will only harass us. We’ll have to
withdraw to Pardela.
Mirakova calls to an aide.
MIRAKOVA
Has there been any contact from General Krelston?
AIDE
No one can get through to him, sir.
MIRAKOVA
There’s no time for this. Issue the evacuation order- I’ll go and find
him myself.
59. Ext F’lar Command
Numerous skimmers leave the FC.
60. Galaxycats Control Room,
Rienne
Sheba, Vanilla, Aquilegia, Marval, Tassel and one other
officer are there.
AQUILEGIA
I’m detecting a mass movement of skimmers from F’lar Command.
An attack?
AQUILEGIA
They’re towards the Fringes; if anything, I’d say this looks like an
evacuation.
VANILLA
We should go out and harass them.
You’re in enough trouble already, Vanilla; don’t try my patience with
idiotic suggestions.
VANILLA
What should we do, then?
There’s very little we can do except wait and see what happens next.
61. Reactor Room, F’lar Command
A handful of engineers are still working.
ENGINEER #2
Sir, it’s reached the critical point- there’s nothing more we can do!
ENGINEER
Okay, let’s get out of here-
Before anyone can move, the reactor overloads. The room
flashes white.
62. Interrogation Room, F’lar
Command
Mirakova enters, and sees Krelston’s body. She goes over
to it, and tries to rouse him.
MIRAKOVA
Sir!
The room is engulfed in a flash of white light.
63. Roof of Building, Rienne
Malteazer stands and watches the destruction of the FC.
64. Ruins of F’lar Command- some
time later
Several Galaxycat skimmers touch down just outside the
ruins. A team led by
Okay, let’s split up into two groups. We’re searching for survivors,
but if you come across anything you can use, feel free to pick it up.
VANILLA
Acknowledged, Captain.
We follow Vanilla’s team (includes Ferrero) as they poke
through the ruins. In the remains of a research lab, they find an interesting
device.
FERRERO
Commander, is this worth picking up?
VANILLA
Provided it isn’t going to blow up in our faces, we might as well.
Another Galaxycat with a scanner calls to Vanilla.
GALAXYCAT
Sir, I’m picking up life-signs just beyond this wall!
Vanilla draws her gun.
VANILLA
Be careful, everyone; I doubt any stray F’lar will appreciate our
efforts.
Vanilla and her team advance, only to discover the
mysterious life-form is a half-dazed Malteazer, who is slumped against a wall.
You again!
Vanilla shakes Malteazer lightly in an attempt to rouse
her. Malteazer becomes slightly more focused.
MALTEAZER
Vanilla? Where…where am I?
VANILLA
You’re sitting in the ruins of the FC- and looking remarkably unharmed
considering that this place has just blown up.
MALTEAZER
Blown up? What happened?
VANILLA
Well, I was actually hoping you could shed some light on that. I mean,
an explosion on this kind of scale isn’t something you could just fail to
notice.
MALTEAZER
I’m sorry, but the last thing I remember was Krelston wanting to
interrogate me. It’s all a blank after that.
VANILLA
How convenient for you.
MALTEAZER
I’m sorry I can’t be more accommodating.
VANILLA
Very funny. If it was up to me, I’d just leave you here, but I suppose
I’d better keep the captain happy.
Vanilla reluctantly helps Malteazer to her feet, but the
two separate as soon as conveniently possible.
Cut to
All right, looks like there’s nothing here. Let’s get back to the
skimmers.
Sheba’s team returns to the skimmers, but as they
approach,
Lieutenant Sapphire!
Instead of running away, Sapphire draws a knife and
tackles
SAPPHIRE
One move from any of your and your precious captain dies!
The team look uncertain and confused, unaware that
Sapphire is not the ally they assumed her to be.
So, you were the traitor. How did you end up here?
SAPPHIRE
Oh, you know how things sometimes just happen. I suppose I’m quite
lucky really, unlike poor Commander Willow.
What did you do to her?
SAPPHIRE
Oh come now, Captain, do you really think this is the best place to
talk? We’ll have time for a chat on our little skimmer ride.
A member of
Stand down, Ensign.
ENSIGN
But, sir…
Much as I hate to leave the city at this time, I’m afraid this is a
situation that I need to personally resolve. Tell Commander Vanilla that she’s
in charge until I get back- and instruct her not to come after me.
SAPPHIRE
Enough of that, let’s go.
Sapphire and
Cut to Vanilla’s team as they return to the skimmers.
VANILLA
Where’s the captain?
ENSIGN
Commander, she’s been taken hostage!
VANILLA
What happened? Did you guys run into a F’lar?
ENSIGN
It wasn’t a F’lar…it was Lieutenant Sapphire.
VANILLA
So the captain was right…well, whatever the case, we need to go after
them.
ENSIGN
Uh, the captain specifically said we weren’t to do that.
VANILLA
That kind of order is just asking to be disobeyed! Which way did they
go?
MALTEAZER
How did someone like you even reach the rank of commander?
VANILLA
What did you say, F’lar?
MALTEAZER
You heard me. Every time your captain gives you an order, all you can
seem to think about is disobeying it.
VANILLA
A member of my squadron has betrayed Galaxycats and kidnapped my
commanding officer- what do you expect me to do?
MALTEAZER
Blindly chasing after them is most likely to make the situation worse.
You should have a little faith in Captain
FERRERO
Commander, what should we do?
Vanilla turns away to think for a moment. Finally, she
sighs.
VANILLA
The damned F’lar is right. Let’s gather up what we’ve found here and
return to Galaxycats.
65. Sheba’s Office, Rienne
Vanilla and
We’ve completed a search of Sapphire’s quarters. I can’t say the
evidence is conclusive, but it doesn’t look good.
VANILLA
I see.
Commander, this isn’t easy for any of us. We all trusted Sapphire.
VANILLA
All those times we went out to fight together, and I never once
suspected…how could the captain see something was wrong when I was so blind?
Pause.
Commander, there’s one more thing. No one’s heard anything from
Commander Willow since yesterday.
VANILLA
According to the report from
Should we hold a wake?
VANILLA
Let’s wait until the captain gets back- just in case.
I thought that once we liberated Rienne from the F’lar, everything
would seem better- but it just feels like we’ve got ourselves into an even
bigger mess.
VANILLA
It’ll work out, Commander; I won’t let the damned F’lar take everything
away from us.
Pause.
Uh, I’d better be going, Commander.
Vanilla nods and
VANILLA
Malteazer enters, holding the device that Vanilla’s team
found in the ruins.
Was there something else you needed,
MALTEAZER
I understand you picked this up in the ruins of the F’lar Command.
VANILLA
In case it has escaped your notice, I am now the commanding officer of
this facility. Lucky as we were to have the F’lar blow themselves up for
whatever reason, I still have more pressing matters to attend to than you and
your little device.
MALTEAZER
This ‘little device’ is a personal teleport. I am sure you’ll agree
that the technological advance it represents could decide the course of the
war- one way or another.
VANILLA
If that is the case, then why did you fail to mention this before? Wasn’t
keridanium the big threat you were warning us all about?
MALTEAZER
Keridanium was- and still is- an issue of concern, but it is no longer
the only one. When I left the F’lar, I believed that the teleportation project
had been scrapped, but based on my analysis of this device, advances have been
made that make it viable. And you can bet that if the F’lar think there’s even
the slightest chance of it working, they’ll assign their best scientists to the
project.
VANILLA
So what is it you want? If it’s just a lab where you can stay out of my
way whilst you tinker with that thing, then I’m all too happy to give it to
you.
MALTEAZER
Whilst I would like to do just that, there is one more thing we should
discuss.
VANILLA
I think it should be clear by now that I have absolutely nothing to say
to you.
MALTEAZER
On the contrary, I think you’ll find that, right now, I am the only
person that you can talk to.
Pause; Vanilla looks sceptical.
Think about it- you’re effectively the captain now. You have to lead
this crew, putting aside your own doubts and fears to become a strong figure
for them. Can you hope to manage that?
VANILLA
Who are you, of all people, to lecture me about being in command? I’ve
spent my career in Galaxycats- you’re just some F’lar lackey.
MALTEAZER
Insult me all you want, but it won’t change anything. The gap between a
commander and a captain is nothing less than the gap between a Pantheran and a
god. I very much doubt you can manage on your own.
VANILLA
And your point is…?
MALTEAZER
Don’t get me wrong- I couldn’t care less about you. I do, however, care
about what Galaxycats and Captain
VANILLA
So, what, you want to be my guardian angel?
MALTEAZER
Hardly. I just want you to listen to me, to consider my opinion before
you do anything too hot-headed.
VANILLA
I’m sorry not to oblige your egoistic little fantasies, but there’s
only room for one captain here, and that position is taken. Why don’t you run
along to your little lab and work on that oh-so-important teleportation device
of yours?
Malteazer gets up.
MALTEAZER
Fine, I’ll be going now- but like it or not, you’re going to find that
you need me.
Vanilla snorts as Malteazer leaves.
66. Ruins of F’lar Command,
Rienne
Zoom in to
67. Underground Bunker, FC,
Rienne
A number of small worker robots (toolbots) are clustered
around a humanoid shape on a medical bed. They appear to be adding mechanical components
to the shape. Finally, they complete their work and move backwards
TOOLBOTS
Restoration complete; all systems online.
VIEW FROM ABOVE. The figure on the bed is revealed to be
Mirakova, now transformed into a cyborg. She wakes up.
MIRAKOVA
I must complete my duty.
TO BE CONTINUED…