Chapter 1:- Acts I, II & III


FADE IN:

SUPER: YEAR 2175

EXT. SKY OVER CHINA - DAY

Above the Great Wall of China, an AERIAL DOGFIGHT rages like
the ‘Seventh Circle of Hell’. A FIRE STORM rains from
“United Asia” FIGHTER PLANES on a GREY FIGHTER CRAFT that
JUKES and returns FIRE - the pilot holds his own damn well.

A MASSIVE GAUNTLET reaches into the sky and FREEZES ACTION -

INT. COL. WINRIGHT’S OFFICE - DAY

With a chest full of MEDALS next to his NAME BADGE, COL.
WINRIGHT (50s) steps into the huge HYPER SCREEN where Hell’s
dogfight is frozen. He taps the Fighters with different
digits on his gauntlet, speaking voice commands -

COL. WINRIGHT
Highlight trajectories - red for U
A, green for Confederation craft.

Colored lines overlay the images as if a clean-shaven war god
were strategizing for combatants on an aerial chess board.

Enter MAJOR DECK BLAIR (40s), cocksure and comfortable in his
physically fit if well-worn frame.

DECK
My highlight reel.

Col. Winright waves his cyber gauntlet and the Hyper Screen
dims as the room lights brighten.

COL. WINRIGHT
I’ve gotta approve that shit as a
training module for our new jocks.

DECK
Teach from the best.

Winright lays his gauntlet on his desk and leans next to it.

COL. WINRIGHT
Don’t fool yourself with stats or
believe in that prescient physics
bullshit. You were more lucky than
good, ‘Old School’.

DECK
Lucky enough to marry Annie instead
of being your son-in-law.

Deck sets his I.D. badge and his own cyber gauntlet on the
desk near a photo of: Col. Winright, his Wife (50s) and their
Daughter - a gorgeous 20 year old in a, Second Lieutenant’s
dress Uniform at her commencement from West Point.

COL. WINRIGHT
Go to Hell.

DECK
Been there - you have the footage.

Deck thumbs toward the dimmed hyper screen’s freeze frame.

COL. WINRIGHT
It wrote your ticket to Mars - God
help the bloated Space Corps.

DECK
Air Corps will survive without me.
War’s all but won, Tobias.

Winright glances at Deck’s I.D. and glove - goes to the door.

EXT. HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

Deck walks with Winright.

COL. WINRIGHT
(wryly)
It’s cold there, you know - Mars.
I hope you freeze your ass off.

DECK
Might be a nice change from the
firefights.

COL. WINRIGHT
Did you know that Dante’s Ninth
Circle of Hell was frozen?

DECK
Then I guess it can freeze over...

COL. WINRIGHT
As sure as a dinosaur like you can
retire from the Corps.

They arrive at a CHECKPOINT to EXIT the building; GUARDS
stand nearby. Winright places his hand on a cellular scanner
and his eye over a retina scanner. The door opens.

Deck SALUTES. Winright extends his hand.

COL. WINRIGHT
You’ve been decommissioned, Deck.

Deck shakes Winright’s hand and leaves.

EXT. MILITARY BASE - DAY

Winright watches Deck through the glass. Deck looks skyward -
SEES a SPACE SHUTTLE lifted by plasma rockets.

CUT TO:

SUPER: MARTIAN POLAR CAP - YEAR 3036

EXT. MARTIAN POLAR CAP - DAY

In a frozen, ‘Ninth Circle of Hell’ on Mars - meters under
the ice, SEE a barely visible, wrecked spacecraft with “nose
art” of THOR, Norse Thunder God. Within the spacecraft are -

INT. WRECKED SPACECRAFT UNDER ICE - CONTINUOUS

ICICLES on improbably operating circuit panels and FROST on a
cryogenic chamber. Through its frosty, clear panel SEE -

DECK. A five o’clock shadow and ragged bangs frame his eyes -
they FLUTTER - R.E.M.s -

His LIFE SUPPORT shows LIVELY EEG activity - he DREAMS of -

EXT. SKY OVER CHINA - DAY

Deck’s AERIAL DOGFIGHT from the opening ‘highlight reel’.

DREAMING drifts away to -

EXT. PLANET TYCUS - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY

From Hell to the GARDEN OF EDEN that is TYCUS, like Earth but
with strangely wonderful, ALIEN FAUNA. Amidst EDEN is a
small, sparkling city and adjoining townships that is -

EXT. PRIMUS CITYSCAPE - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY

A Futuristic, modest sized metropolis - pristine and serene
EXCEPT for the COMBAT at the city’s perimeter.

FURIOUS, close COMBAT - blasting and slashing ensues between:

Bloodied HUMAN SOLDIERS - bald, 8’ to 9’ tall and gangly,
fight alongside bloodless, 6’ tall ANDROID SOLDIERS in same
uniforms - some with exposed wires and circuitry from damage.

They battle BILE spattered KANTURANS - grotesque, HUMANOID
ALIENS; 5’ tall crustaceans in armor with weapons and blades.
The Kanturans are lead by a savage who is the largest and
fiercest among them - 6’ tall CAPT. NEDAL - RANK on uniform.

The Human/Android forces outnumber the Kanturans, but the
latter take the offensive by superior skills and savagery.

DREAMING away from Tycus to orbit above the planet where -

EXT. SPACE SURROUNDING TYCUS - CONTINUOUS

Starfighters DOGFIGHT. Blasters FIRE. Eerie, SILENT
EXPLOSIONS in the vacuum of space light up the darkness.

Kanturan starfighters are rigid, metallic and edgy. Tycan
starfighters are translucent, flexible craft like giant,
nimble, space-bound jellyfish on ‘roids.

DREAMING SUDDENLY WITHDRAWS BACK TO MARS -

EXT. MARTIAN PLANET SURFACE - DAY

Past Dante’s polar cap and the wrecked craft of Thor, across
the equator, onto a cluster of sterile buildings, into where -

INT. MISSION CONTROL ROOM - DAY

Music plays softly (classical-new age fusion) as -

Two tall, BALD TECHNICIANS sit next to a shorter ANDROID
TECHNICIAN at high-tech consoles; all dressed paramilitary.
Humans are as tall and gangly as subjects in a STRETCHED El
Greco painting. Androids look human - circa: 20th centuries.
Bald Tech #1 looks through a glass barrier between Mission
Control and the adjacent Gallery wherein -

INT. VIEWING GALLERY - CONTINUOUS

OBSERVERS dressed in cold, futuristic, civilian attire view
with anticipation. Most are tall, thin, bald - human. The
androids each have unique faces, but all are 6’ 0” and all
sport synthetic hair, after centuries old design specs.

BACK TO MISSION CONTROL - CONTINUOUS

It’s a brave, new world. The 30th century ain’t your
father’s reality. TELEKINESIS and TELEPATHY now rule.
Bald Techs coolly control their panels telekinetically - the
controls move in front of them as they concentrate.

The Android Tech manually works his terminal’s controls.
A pair of VIDEO SCREENS project in the air above the Techs:
One DISPLAYS a satellite antenna array outside their building
surrounded by harsh, red, Martian terrain.

The other DISPLAYS the “E.P.” - EARTH’S PERIMETER WHEEL
around the cloud shrouded planet below. Soaring TOWERS, the
wheel’s ‘spokes,’ extend from the E.P. through clouds to the
planet beneath - The E.P. is made of “Diminium”
(diamond/silicon compound).

The Bald Techs look back and forth at one another as they
“COMMUNE” - communicate telepathically. They nod then -

Bald Tech #1 focuses and telekinetically ACTIVATES a DEVICE.

On the IRIS of the Android Tech, TEXT APPEARS:

“PSIONIC AMPLIFIER ON-LINE.”

The humans smile thinly as the android nods acknowledgment.

IN THE VIEWING GALLARY - DAY

Observers raise their hands and wiggle their fingers in the
air, touching fingertips together in silent “applause.”
Humans wear subdued smiles absent from the androids.

RED ALARM lights FLASH! Subdued smiles dissolve and soft
music fades, surrendering to silence as -

IN MISSION CONTROL - CONTINUOUS

Techs give their full attention to a spotty audio signal -
 
VOICE (V.O.)
(filtered)
Repeat, this is FSC 1 8 8 5...
HELP... massive mechanical
failure... ALIVE... ditching on the
polar ice cap... HERE... Martian
exploratory, do you read?...

Bald Tech #2 telekinetically opens a new VIDEO PROJECTION of -

INT. SHUTTLE BAY - CONTINUOUS

A MISSION COMMANDER - tall, thin - human, and crew of four
Androids, hustle gear into a 30 meter service shuttle with
glittering, diminium skin.

The shuttle hatch seals and the craft levitates out of the
air lock that closes silently behind.

EXT. EXCAVATION SITE, MARTIAN PLANET - DAY

The diminium shuttle blends into the Martian ICE CAP on which
it lands and the crew of five disembarks with tool kits.

The human Mission Commander wears a Space Suit with a “Mag
Lev” vest (Magnetic-Levitation/gravity control). Androids
wear only paramilitary uniforms equipped with Mag Lev vests.
All work with cool composure as they operate sensors to find
their mark. They levitate a large squid-like EXCAVATION
ROBOT over the ice. They adjust the device for MAX GRAVITY
and anchors pneumatically BLAST into the ice in SILENCE.

The “Squid Robot” CHEWS through the ICE rapidly and silently.
The drill mechanically retracts and the animated ‘Squid’
deploys a laser and vacuum hoses from other ‘tentacles’ to
melt the last centimeters of ice to reveal an -

“ANCIENT” (metal alloy) SPACE SHIP buried in the ice.

On the IRIS of an Android, TEXT APPEARS (providing):

Date, time, latitude & longitude, depth of excavation,
temperature, followed next by the TEXT:

“INFRARED AND CELLULAR SCANS -”
“SPECIES: HUMAN - ONE, STATUS: HYPER-STASIS, THREAT: NONE.”
“SENT TO MISSION COMMANDER VIA PSI EXPORT.”
 
The Mission Commander receives the report - nods.

Artificial LIGHT SHINES from the Mission Commander’s helmet
as he descends into the excavation crater to the resonant

SOUND of his labored BREATHING inside of his helmet.

IN THE EXCAVATION SITE -

The Crew follows the Commander into the excavation crater
and observes markings on the DAMAGED spacecraft’s HULL:

VIKING 27 F S C 1 8 8 5
A FLAG (EARTH’S GLOBE ON A RED AND WHITE BACK GROUND)
UNITED CONFEDERATION OF NATIONS
United Dynamics Corporation (& company logo)

It also sports “nose art” of THOR, Norse Thunder God.

The Mission Commander tries to open the wrecked ship’s hatch
but can’t. Android Crew Member #1 exerts his superior
mechanical strength and easily pries it open in silence.

The crew enters the Viking 27 through its cockpit hatch.

INT. VIKING 27 SPACE CRAFT - CONTINUOUS

The Crew follows their Commander through the cockpit to -

INT. PAYLOAD BAY - CONTINUOUS

Continue into the frosty Payload Bay where the Crew finds -

Four cryogenic hibernation chambers.
The Mission Commander examines the readouts of the cryogenic
chambers; only one shows active vital signs.
Major Deck Blair is the sole survivor.

The Mission Commander silently communicates with his crew.
Crew Member #1 goes to the cockpit while #2 examines the
cryogenic life support system. #2 transfers life support
technology components from the Viking’s on-board system to
their portable system.
 
Simultaneous - Crew Member #3 uses laser cutters to remove
the cryo chamber from its mounts on the bay floor while Crew
Member #4 secures Mag Levs around the cylinder.

EXT. EXCAVATION SITE, MARTIAN PLANET - MOMENTS LATER

The Crew emerges from the excavated crater with the
levitating cryo chamber and guides it into the shuttle craft.

CUT TO:

INT. MEDICAL LAB, MARTIAN BASE - LATER

All four cryo chambers levitate in an ultra high tech med
lab. Three DOCTORS examine Deck’s cylinder; the lead is:
REBECCA CANE (30s), 8’ tall, willowy slender with long hair.
The other doctors are ANDROIDS: 6’ tall, synthetic ‘hair’.

OBSERVERS view through glass from an ADJACENT GALLERY as -

Rebecca telekinetically activates recording protocols and
holographic monitor projections as the medical team works.
They open Deck’s cryo chamber and levitate him out of the
cylinder to hover above an automated exam table - tubes and
wires trail from Deck’s chest and arms from the cylinder.

Dr. Cane telekinetically moves a scanner over Deck’s body as
Android Doctor #1 manually surveys his vital signs on a
monitor and Android Doctor #2 REPLACES the tubes and wires
from the cryo chamber with others on the exam-table.

Rebecca INJECTS Deck with epinephrine via “pneumatidermic”
instrument (hypodermic injection in micro-compressed air).
All who breathe wait on bated breath as -

NOTHING HAPPENS.

The medical team employs additional
measures and works with determination, and finally -

Deck COMES TO!

He blinks his eyes and dry vomits. The Android Doctor wipes
congealed puss from Deck’s eyes with a moist gauze.

Deck is disoriented. He sits up, tries to move. The doctors
gently restrain him and SPEAK the FIRST AUDIBLE WORDS this scene-
 
ANDROID DOCTOR
Rest, Major Blair. You must
recover gradually from cryogenic
hyper-stasis.

He lies back and tries to speak. He only grunts weakly,
clears his throat, then speaks roughly -

DECK
How long... hibernation?

REBECCA
There will be time gradually for
all of your queries.

He’s confused at her reply; tries to respond. She injects
him with another burst. He goes under again.

CUT TO:

EXT. E.P. EARTH’S PERIMETER WHEEL - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NIGHT

SUPER: EARTH’S PERIMETER WHEEL

The gargantuan, sparkling Wheel slowly rotates in space with
the Earth above a toxic, nuclear winter atmosphere.
Through a portal on the skin of the wheel, a concert hall is
filled with ORCHESTRA and AUDIENCE.

INT. CONCERT HALL, EARTH’S PERIMETER WHEEL - CONTINUOUS

Half the audience and most of the orchestra are bald and
freaky tall. All are dressed in futuristic, formal attire
and sit perfectly still - listening keenly.

Orchestra instruments include the classics and electronic
newcomers. The sound is Mozart meets Tangerine Dream.
In the audience, front and center, is WALTER VAN DER REE
(60s), Earth Assembly’s General Director - tall, skinny with
short HAIR. He sports a dazzling array of medallions.

Walter’s PERSONAL AIDE walks crisply down the aisle, stops
and COMMUNES to him.

Walter perceives and turns to face the Aide. They exchange
telepathy and Walter nods, rises and leaves.

CUT TO:

INT. LIVING ROOM, NATALIE BAKER’S HOME ON TYCUS - DAY

SUPER: RESETTLEMENT PLANET TYCUS

NATALIE BAKER/ ‘Natie’ (16) telekinetically manipulates
components of a small rocket assembly. Natie is striking.
Wicked smart if sometimes nagged by self doubt.
The house is quiet except for soothing Classical music.

The doorbell quietly chimes.

It breaks Natie’s concentration and rocket assembly pieces
fall to the floor with dull thuds. A frustrated Natie gets
up and answers the door; there stands -

REECE JUSTIN (15), a cocksure specimen of testosterone
dressed in a new military uniform.
A dime sized, diminium CD/disc falls from his mouth and hangs
from a chain around his neck as he speaks -

REECE
Natie, did you hear about Thunder
Star?!

A distressed Natie snaps her hand into place over her mouth -
palm out (30th century equivalent of a “shushing” finger on
the lips) then looks to an adjacent room.

Reece follows her line of sight - and is startled as if he’s
been scolded.  He has-

REECE
Yes, Ms. Baker. That is my voice
you heard...

MEREDITH BAKER (40 - Natie’s mom) peers through a doorway and
looks sternly at Reece.

REECE
I know this is a telepathy only
household. I’m sorry. I’m a lout!

Meredith leaves the room and Reece coaxes Natie outside. He
not only take her hands in his, but tenderly; as BOYFRIEND.

EXT. NATALIE BAKER’S HOME, PORCH - CONTINUOUS

Natie steps outside with Reece and quietly closes the door.

REECE
I’m a loud lout, steppin’ on out...
 
Natie smiles at him, then serious; looks at him, COMMUNES -

REECE
I know you have homework. You
won’t care about that stupid
history rocket, when you perceive
what colonists found on Mars!

She communes again - gives him some shit...

REECE
Yeah? Well if I’m never going to
amount to anything
psychokinetically, then how’d I get
selected for the elite, Psi Combat
Corps?

She scrutinizes him carefully, into his eyes and through his
haughty expression of barely contained excitement, looks at
his PATCHES and INSIGNIA as if directed to, then is agape -

NATIE
No! And they’re screening women
for saliency too?

REECE
Yeah, they are! And it has nothing
to do with old corps protocols,
just genetic profiles!
She questions him telepathically -

REECE
Sure, if you’re cat two interface
viable - you could be a candidate!
She studies him again. Communes again -

NATIE
Only two hundred? But how many do
they already have?

REECE
From what I gather...

NATIE
Already!? I need to get down there
right away! Oh, Shiva! I should
ask my...

The front door opens and Meredith steps outside. She speaks
despite dormant vocal chords.
 
MEREDITH
(raspy)
Absolutely not!

NATIE
But mom, do you know what this is?

MEREDITH
I’m not about to have you...

Meredith continues her thoughts telepathically.

They exchange silent thoughts as their expressions show the
heated nature of the debate.

Reece nervously observes, registering the intense argument.
Meredith finishes, gives Reese a nasty, parting look, and
goes back inside.

REECE
Sorry, Natie.

Reece walks down the sidewalk toward his awaiting hovercraft
levitating at the curb. He looks skyward and sees -

A FORMATION of futuristic fighters screams by.

EXT. MILITARY RECRUITMENT STATION ON TYCUS - LATER

Holo-projections feature Thor with hammer circling overhead,
mouth open in ‘war cry’. Holo-text flickers:

“OPERATION THUNDERSTAR - SUBMIT FOR PSI-SCREENING NOW!”

A LINE of TEENS forms like they’re waiting for a rock show.
They exchange active looks of lively telepathy. A few AD LIB
WHISPER with one another despite the taboo. All are very
tall and thin. While some are bald, MANY have HAIR!

INT. MILITARY RECRUITMENT STATION ON TYCUS - CONTINUOUS

Uniformed RECRUITERS guide TEENS into lines where -
RECRUITERS up front help Teens telekinetically complete
electronic “forms” projected via holo-screens.

As Teens complete their forms, other RECRUITERS scan their
eyes with levitating retina scanners and take blood samples
with levitating pneumatidermic instruments.

FEW candidates get the nod to enter the ‘Temple’ where -
 
INT. MILITARY INNER TESTING ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Four PHYSICIANS (two human, two android) examine one TEEN
CANDIDATE each.

The Physicians use cellular permeable imaging instruments to
test their candidates’ genetic profiles and physical
capacities. Human’s instruments hover; androids hold theirs.

ONE advances from the Temple into the ‘Holy of Holies’ where -

INT. MILITARY CHIEF ASSESSOR’S PRIVATE LAB - CONTINUOUS

ANDROID, CHIEF ASSESSOR places a skullcap with fiber optic
tethers on a TEEN CANDIDATE’S head.
The skullcap dissolves and the glowing fiber optics penetrate
the teen’s cranium. His eyes roll back in his head and
flashes of light emanate from the fiber optic tethers.

The ROOM DISSOLVES into a white “LIMBO” (purgatory?).
Blinks of light appear and dissolve. Translucent limbs, like
tentacles, extend and reach out from the unseen test subject
toward the blinks of light - the Teen Candidate tries to
touch the lights before they disappear. Too many are missed.

BACK TO SCENE IN THE CHIEF ASSESSOR’S PRIVATE LAB

The Teen Candidate concentrates and sweats as his fiber
optics flash. A Recruiter looks into the room and the Chief
Assessor shakes his head. The Recruiter wags his head.
The Teen’s burnt offering was, sadly, not pleasing to Thor.

CUT TO:

INT. REBECCA CANE’S OFFICE, MARTIAN BASE - NIGHT

Rebecca enters weary and sits behind her desk. Jazz fusion
plays softly at her mental command as she telepathically
switches on her computer. Her glass desktop lights up. She
looks from one panel to another, activating “buttons” with
glances - reviews results from Deck’s medical evaluation.

Walter Van Der Ree’s holographic image appears and he greets
Rebecca telepathically - she replies vocally -
 
REBECCA
Good evening to you as well, Mr.
General Director. I thought we
were practicing vocalization?

WALTER
Indeed we are. Rebecca, I can’t
tell you how delighted I was to see
the data strings... they look very
promising!

REBECCA
Major Blair’s recovery from stasis
is progressing very favorably.

WALTER
That’s just splendid, especially
after five centuries! Progress on
cloning the differentiated cells?

REBECCA
Viable and underway with initial,
Category One test subjects.

WALTER
Excellent. Our recruiters on Tycus
are actively screening for viable
Type Two candidates.

REBECCA
So we proceed with memory cloning,
Mr. General Director?

Walter ignores her question -

WALTER
I couldn’t believe my eyes... from
your data string; he possesses a
completely developed cerebellum?

REBECCA
Pronounced mass. And genome
analysis confirms he’s a latent
psionic, as were most ancients who
were tactical, combat Aces.

WALTER
And all we had planned for the Psi
Amplifier was to gather intel on
the Kanturans. How auspicious to
have it find precisely what we need
at this perilous time!

REBECCA
Is not the grammar - who we need?
Still beaming, he nods - dismissive, and changes the subject.

WALTER
It sounds like you’re getting
comfortable with the voice box
implant?

REBECCA
I am. I have not the time to
exercise dormant vocal chords. I
am clearly not as verbally adept as
you, Walter.

WALTER
I’m a politician; verbiage is my
medium. In any event, it’ll help
communicate with Major Blair - a
stranger in a telepathic world...

REBECCA
I have seen to it that all relevant
systems are retrofitted with voice
actuation programs and audio
receivers. All should be well for
interface with the Major’s
vocalization.

WALTER
Any prognosis on his potential to
adapt to telepsi? I’m hopeful with
his latent proficiency that he can
develop to be fully psychokinetic.

REBECCA
We can not know until cerebrum
interface, and he will need to
fully rehabilitate to functional,
cognitive baselines before he is
skullcap enabled.

WALTER
How long do you expect that to
take?

REBECCA
Three days.

WALTER
Then I’ll look forward to your
progress strings. You’re at the
helm of history, Rebecca!
 
She half smiles in appreciation that bears the weight of the
world as his image disappears.

She turns to a REPLICATOR appliance and it creates a glass of
wine for her. The replicator dissolves to project a ‘window’
revealing the harsh, Martian landscape.

She waves her hand, unnecessarily, as her mind changes the
IMAGE to reveal -

A younger Rebecca with her husband in a lush park; they smile
and celebrate at a BIRTHDAY party near an ice sculpture.

CUT TO:

INT. CLONE INCUBATION WARD, MARTIAN BASE - NIGHT

A pale, male, teen age CLONE floats in amniotic fluid inside
an incubation cylinder with a portal at eye level. Surgical
tubes and fiber optic tethers penetrate his head and chest.
A tinny, mechanical VOICE resonates within the fluid over
patriotic MUSIC playing softly in the background. IMAGES
shimmer in the fluid before his opened eyes that are:

SERIES OF SHOTS:

EXT. POST APOCALYPTIC EARTH - DAY Earth cities laid in
ruins, smoking rubble and disfigured bodies everywhere.

VOICE (V.O.)
After the wars ruined planet Earth,
the atmosphere and climate of Tycus
proved ideal...

EXT. SPACE IN EARTH’S ORBIT - Huge space ships, mother ships,
cruise through space away from a cloud-shrouded Earth, the
E.P. turns in space.

VOICE (V.O.)
From the E.P. refuge we began to
rebuild our lives on a new world.

INT. SCIENCE LABS - DAY YOUNG MEN work on projects -

VOICE (V.O.)
Man devoted himself to developing
intellect and advancing
civilization...
And we forgot the ways of war!

EXT. SPACE ORBITING TYCUS Alien star fighters do combat with
Tycan star ships in space around Tycus. The Aliens -
KANTURANS are visible through the canopies of their cockpits.
 
VOICE (V.O.)
A new enemy attacked - Diplomatic
emissaries failed to reason with
the Kanturans...

EXT. TYCUS - DAY Kanturans led by a Kanturan Captain Nedal,
engage in savage combat with humans, slaughtering their human
enemies as Primus burns -

VOICE (V.O.)
And this was only the first wave of
Kanturan invasion. Their next wave
threatens to be catastrophic!

INT. KANTURAN THRONE ROOM - DAY EMPEROR KAMASO draws battle
plans on a MAP of PRIMUS and of the E.P.

VOICE (V.O.)
Kanturan Emperor Kamaso draws
attack plans that call for no
quarter to be given our people.
Walter Van Der Ree’s face appears.

WALTER (V.O.)
(filtered)
The challenge at hand is daunting -
to you, our heroic, elite warrior
recruits - your tactical strike
force will safeguard our homes...

END SERIES OF SHOTS

The huge room is filled with a hundred clone incubation
chambers nursing a very small, highly skilled corps of deadeyed
soldiers. It’s eerie in the nearly dead silence, save
for the quiet, electrical hum of life support.

CUT TO:

EXT. MARTIAN BASE - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NIGHT

The still, silent installation is forboding at night; Mars’
darkness swallows our feeble, artificial lights.

INT. DECK’S SUITE, MARTIAN BASE - CONTINUOUS

Deck stirs from his restless, post cryogenic hibernation
sleep. He mumbles, still not fully awake -
 
DECK
(nearly croaking)
Kanturans... our heroic, elite
warrior recruits...

He trails off, then WAKES groggy, looking hung over. He sits
up in a windowless room. A dim light illuminates the room at
his movement. He clears his throat and looks around.

DECK
What a freaky nightmare.

He stands tentatively and steadies himself on his bed. Still
weak and disoriented, he heads to the toilet. Walking, he
notices - PERPLEXED -

Glowing, fiber-optic tethers are attached to his chest and
wrists. He pulls them out of his skin with ease as he walks.

Deck’s urination is LOUD in the silence.

He re-enters the suite and approaches the door. There’s no
door knob. He’s alarmed. Still weak, he pounds on it.

DECK
Open this god damned door!

He coughs and hacks; clears his throat; gets light headed,
leans against the wall and slides to the floor, irritated.

DECK
(to self)
I’ve been recovered by the U As.
Great, captured by hostiles.

VACUUM SOUND precedes the door opening. Enter Rebecca Cane.

REBECCA
Major Blair, I regret your
displeasure regarding your...
situation.

She telepathically commands a replicator to appear in the
wall which produces a glass of water. He looks puzzled but
accepts the glass from her as she stands beside him.

REBECCA
This may aid your throat.
He drinks with vigorous thirst.

REBECCA
Slowly, Major.
 
Deck stands, speaks more clearly now, if still slightly
hoarse. She towers over him.

DECK
You don’t look Asian. Too tall.
She studies him - tries to scan his thoughts for clarity.

REBECCA
Major Blair, you are not my
prisoner and I am not an agent of
... United Asia?

DECK
Okay. Who then? I pull a Rip Van
Winkle... there’s no telling what
government I wake up with.
He places his glass back in the replicator.

DECK
How do you get a refill...
His glass fills again with water to his surprise.

REBECCA
Major, you have not been revived by
a totalitarian regime, rest
assured.

DECK
I’ve had enough rest. So where am
I and who the Hell are you?
He sits on his bed, drinks again, more slowly this time.

REBECCA
I am Doctor Rebecca Cane, Chief
Neuro Physician on Mars Colony.

DECK
With the Confederation?

REBECCA
Of the United Alliance of Nations;
successor to the Confederation.
Major, you have been in hyperstasis
for a long time.

DECK
How long? Where are the others in
my crew?

She steps closer to deliver delicately -
 
REBECCA
As an astronaut, you are familiar
with protocols regarding gradual,
post stasis re-orientation?

DECK
I know the protocols, Doc. Can you
just spare me the rhetoric and give
me the straight skinny?

She looks at him oddly, picks up telepathically his meaning.

REBECCA
If you know the process, then you
should respect my adherence to it.

DECK
It’s got to have been awhile. I
crashed here surveying where we
could build a base camp that seems
finished.

He looks at the room around him. She telepathically commands
a ‘virtual window’ in the room to open. He glimpses one face
of the sprawling Mars complex.

DECK
The rest of my crew didn’t make it,
did they?

REBECCA
The trauma to the others prior to
their cryo-suspension was critical.

DECK
Our star ships can take more
punishment than our bodies.

REBECCA
Theirs was... irreparable.
He looks oddly at her choice of words.

DECK
Language has changed. Do I have
any surviving family?

REBECCA
Data strings since your time are
broken... from war. We currently
have systems engaged in a search
for genealogical relations to you.
For now, Major, rest.
 
She turns to the door - it opens at her telepathic command.

He “thinks to her,” rather than speak aloud -

DECK (V.O.)
When do I learn how that works?

She stops - faces him to answer his question about the door -

REBECCA
In due time. Your security
clearance - surely you perceive as
a military man...

DECK
You’re a mind reader, aren’t you?

REBECCA
We have evolved. Our culture is
telepathic.

DECK
Then you should be able to size me
up. I think you’ll agree I’m a big
boy. How ‘bout some straight talk?

She assesses him. Her expression is convinced -

REBECCA
Your combat experience has hardened
your resiliency.

DECK
Then damn the protocols.
She telepathically imports holographic imaging to appear in
the room before them - it projects a moment of late 26th
century space exploration coverage.

REBECCA
The imager will respond to your
voice commands, as will the
replicator for water.

DECK
Can it conjure up something to eat?

REBECCA
With limitations; it’s set for post
stasis digestion tolerance; fast
break foods.

DECK
(to himself)
Breakfast.
 
REBECCA
The imager will align you to date
accordingly.

He looks confused, then gets her meaning, or closely enough -

DECK
I’m sure it’ll bring me up to
speed.

He looks weary.

REBECCA
Your body will require much rest in
the days ahead. Pace your time.

DECK
Thanks, Doc.

REBECCA
I will return for further
assessment at O, nine-hundred.

The glaring Martian sun blasts through the ‘window’ -

REBECCA
Window - light diffusion at fifty
percent.

The light dims. He gets another lesson from her demo.
She leaves the room and the door closes behind her with a
vacuum hiss.

DECK
Imaging, give me news highlights
starting with the Viking Twenty-
Seven spacecraft lost on nineteen,
May, twenty-five, seventy-six.
Better narrow that field to science
and politics.

Holographic footage of mission coverage appears and he speaks
aloud to the replicator.

DECK
Replicator - any chances of you
conjuring me up a good old, crystal
printer? And some chicken soup?

TIME DISSOLVE:
 
INT. DECK’S SUITE, MARTIAN BASE - LATER

Deck’s asleep on his bed. Hard copies of NEWS spread across
his chest and the floor. Clutched in his hand is a printed
copy of an OBITUARY - next to it is his WIFE’S PHOTO - Annie
Blair, as an OLD WOMAN; it’s dated 2218.

Beside Deck’s bed is a liquid crystal PRINTER, circa 2100s.
Atop the printer is perched an EMPTY BOWL with a spoon, a few
noodles and the crusty remnants of consumed chicken soup.

Holo-imaging of 21st century NEWS FLICKERS overhead - the
visual image repeats in a loop - NEWS of a teenager in a
baseball uniform, swatting a ball with an alloy bat -

NEWS REPORTER (V.O.)
(filtered)
Today, a native son and
Confederation fighter pilot, Deck
Blair Jr., was vaporized over
United Asia. Seen here is Blair in
his last ball game at Blair
Academy, so named after his father,
the decorated astronaut and fighter
jock lost on a topographical survey
mission to Mars in 2176.

Deck mumbles in his dreaming state -

DECK
Yes Sir, Mr. Centurion, Sir!

CUT TO:

EXT. MILITARY ACADEMY ON TYCUS - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY

SUPER: TYCUS MILITARY ACADEMY

Uniformed CADETS move crisply and silently about the campus.
A scale hologram of a starfighter hovers in stillness above a
pedestal in the middle of the manicured quad.
At the perimeter of the campus a shimmering, translucent
force field that flickers a pale, neon coloration.

INT. MILITARY ACADEMY CLASSROOM ON TYCUS - DAY

A CENTURION stands in front of a class of 15 sharp, young,
uniformed CADETS (15 to 17) including Reece. All but two are
male, some bald, some with hair, all extremely tall and
sinewy - humans.
 
Between the Centurion and Cadets hovers a levitating,
metallic work bench with high tech hardware panels on all
sides; on top of it rests a Kanturan engine -

CENTURION
Today we continue our training with
spoken words.

Nods and murmurs from the Cadets -

CENTURION
It’s strange to me also, but we’ll
all need to acclimate to
vocalization. Truth be told, I
think it’s appropriately primal.

A few smiles from the Cadets.

CENTURION
Data is inconclusive as to whether
or not Major Blair will be able to
adapt to telepathy, so until we
determine his ability to commune...

Reece asks a telepathic question and the Centurion responds -

CENTURION
Mr. Justin? Vocalize, Cadet!

REECE
Sir! If the Iceman is not...

Some Cadets snicker and look away innocently -

REECE
Beg pardon, Sir! But if the Major
is not a proficient psionic, how
are his combat skills supposed to
supersede ours, Sir?

Some eyes roll; a few cadets inch away from Reece to
disassociate - Another Cadet bails Reece out -

CADET
Especially if he’s not as fast or
as strong as androids... Sir!

CENTURION
The assumption, cadets, is that
what he lacks in psi proficiency he
makes up for in cerebellum... per
the science team. I expect we’ll
see for ourselves soon enough.
 
Shoulder shrugs and uncertain nods from the ranks.

CENTURION
Now for something I can speak about
with authority...

The Centurion points at the engine atop the hovering slab and
telekinetically manipulates a rotor assembly on it -

CENTURION
Rudimentary engineering specs of
the propulsion system on board the
Kanturan, fighter class birds - and
how to telekinetically stall them.

EXT. AEROSPACE UNIVERSITY OF PRIMUS ON TYCUS - LATER

SUPER: PRIMUS UNIVERSITY ON TYCUS

Academic buildings surround a grassy quad in the center of
which is an animated hologram of the school’s founder.
STUDENTS bustle about with high tech gadgets levitating
nearby - some are video games, others project transparent
data screens in front of students who study on the go.

Natie emerges from the science building with a friend - DEENA
(15, with hair to her belt). They commune actively.

Reece, in uniform, sneaks up on the girls -

REECE
Hey!

Startled, they shoot him cross looks.
Their silence disturbed, he smiles to charm away their ire.
Deena looks at him with a snarkish thought -

REECE
You’re right, Deena, I couldn’t be
more torqued they’re training us
vocally at academy. Before you
know it, they’ll do it here at
university too.
 
NATIE
Primus will never revert to
sanctioned vocalization, and
Academy’s only resorted to it
because the Iceman is too mentally
inept for telepathy.

REECE
Sour grapes there, Natie.

She shoots him a resentful look and a thought to match -

REECE
Sorry! Take it easy, will you?
It’s just- you’re sixteen years old
now; you’re an adult! You could
submit yourself for Psi Screening
even if your mother doesn’t
approve. After your father’s
sacrifice, I know he would.

Natie considers his comments. Deena looks at him smugly -

REECE
(to Deena)
Perceive here, you nit; I’m not the
one with the longest hair in
Primus! So don’t make like I’m the
only one on the planet with a
rebellious node!

Deena gives him a snotty look and a thought as well.

NATIE
Reece, it’s just a node for me too.
Romanticized foolishness and
irrational, counter cultural desire
to do what women have been denied
for generations.

REECE
Don’t agree, Natie! There are
women at academy holding their
own... sort of. Their psi...

NATIE
What business does an astrophysics
laureate have piloting combat
missions anyway?

REECE
Truth is, for all the quantum
physics we’re subjected to, I can’t
think of anyone better qualified.
 
Natie looks at Deena for a moment - silently weighing the
proposition and communing with her friend. Deena gives her
an expression suggesting: “I can’t believe you’re thinking
about this,” then Deena’s stern look dissolves -

DEENA
(raspy whisper)
Good luck, girl.

They hug, part, and Deena wags her head at Reece -

REECE
(to Deena)
Yeah, I promise... You know I’ll
watch out for her! Yeah she will -
(to Natie)
She’s gonna’ make a great pilot.

He puts his arm around her and they walk away leaving Deena
standing alone shaking her head warily.

INT. MILITARY RECRUITMENT STATION ON TYCUS - LATER

The lobby is filled with tall TEENS awaiting screening.
Natie stands at the front of the line as a Recruiter scans
her retina and takes a blood sample.

Reece stands beside Natie. He beams with cocky pride -
showing off his psi combat corps insignia. It draws both
impressed and jealous looks from others.

Natie is signaled to proceed on to the next stage - the inner
Temple that is the sacred Testing Room - Reece follows.
A military GUARD halts Reece at the door, then looks to the
Recruiter; they commune. The Guard nods Reece in with Natie.

INT. MILITARY CHIEF ASSESSOR’S PRIVATE LAB - CONTINUOUS

Natie and Reece enter the Inner Sanctum, the ‘Holy of Holies’
in the Temple of psycho-technology. A Testing Physician
escorts them in and ‘exports data’ to the Chief Assessor -
On the iris of the Android, Chief Assessor, text appears:

“BAKER, NATALIE - EXTREMELY HIGH SALIENCY CANDIDATE.”

The Chief Assessor nods receipt of the psi transmission. He
fixes a fiber optic skullcap to Natie and it interfaces with
her brain.

FLASHES emit from her fiber optics as the room dissolves to -
 
WHITE “LIMBO” that stages blinks of light which flash for
micro seconds before dissolving. Natie’s translucent,
‘tentacles’ adeptly tag the blinks of light.

The lights ACCELERATE - and so does she. She GROWS
additional psychokinetic LIMBS to meet the increasing demand.
She deftly keeps ahead of the runaway, juggernaut test.

BACK ON SCENE IN THE CHIEF ASSESSOR’S PRIVATE LAB

Natie’s fiber optic lines FLASH to a BLUR. The system’s
ready to short out, but she’s calmly FOCUSED.

The Lead Physician from the Testing Room enters to watch,
then a Recruiter steps in. Reece nervously bites his CD.
The Lead Physician telekinetically commands monitor screens
to appear. They project and DISPLAY Natie’s vitals - CALM.

The lights stop. The Assessing Android removes Natie’s
skullcap. She sees STUNNED faces and LOOKS to Reece -

REECE
How’d you do!? Shiva, Natie; you
just blew the room away!

She looks at the Assessor, the Physician and the Recruiter
and uncomfortably notices - they’re all GAPING; even the
Android’s “expression” subtly suggests he might be impressed.

Natie’s OFFERING to Thor SMELLS SWEET.
Reece LOOKS at the Recruiter -

REECE
Yes, Sir. She sure is a prodigy!

CUT TO:

EXT. MARTIAN SETTLEMENT CAMP - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NIGHT

The SUN RISES over the Martian horizon and silhouettes the
expansive Mars Settlement complex.

INT. DECK’S SUITE, MARTIAN BASE - DAY
Deck groggily stirs from sleep as the sun shines harshly
through his ‘window.’ He mumbles to himself as he wakes -

DECK
Damn straight, kid. She’s a
natural.
 
He sits up, looks to the window, and rubs his bleary eyes.
As Deck removes his hands from his eyes, EMPEROR KAMASO
appears in front of him - a wicked BLADE in his hands. He’s
the most brute crustacean of ‘em all, BLACK ARMOR, grimacing -

EMPEROR KAMASO
Ktau!

Kamaso raises his blade overhead and SLINGS it. Deck, still
groggy, reflexively raises his arms overhead in defense.

Deck WAKES from his NIGHTMARE soaked in sweat. He sits up,
looks at the sun glaring through his window, and rubs his
bleary eyes like DEJA VU.

DECK
Computer, dim window diffusion by
thirty percent.

The light mellows a bit, but not enough for his liking -

DECK
Dim by sixty percent. Better.

He stands and shakes his head as he walks to the bathroom.

Shower water RUNS and STEAM issues from the bathroom.
Enter Rebecca. She sorts through an array of paper news
bulletins set atop the printer; HEADLINES:

“SPACE EXPLORATION YIELDS BOUNDLESS HYDROGEN 2” 17-97-2191

“ION DRIVES EXPAND SPACE EXPLORATION” 03-07-2221

“DIAMOND BOUNTY HARVESTED FROM ORION - ECONOMY UPENDED” 01-03-
2238

“SUPERCONDUCTOR REVOLUTION - ANDROID TECH ACCELERATED” 24-04-
2266

“FUNDS CUT TO PSYCHOKINETIC RESEARCH FOR SUPERCONDUCTOR AND
CYBER TECH” 28-05-2274

“DIMINIUM TOWERS COMPLETED THROUGH IONOSPHERE” and “ANDROID
CORPS OF ENGINEERS DEPLOYED” 22-09-2282

“ANDROID COMMUNITY THREATENS REVOLT!” 26-02-2288
BACK ON SCENE IN DECK’S SUITE

Rebecca sets down the news printouts as the shower stops.
 
Deck emerges from the bathroom with a towel around his waist.

DECK
Dr. Cane.

REBECCA
I see that the replicator was able
to create a data printer for you.

He rummages through a drawer for a pair of boxer shorts.

DECK
Hope you’re not about to tell me
there’s a paper shortage in -
whenever we are.

He drops his towel, pulls on his boxers and goes to the
closet; his lack of modesty catches her off guard.

REBECCA
No short... shortage -
(re composing herself)
In fact, nothing is in shortage.
Replicator technology creates from
waste all that we need.

He pulls clothing from the closet, none of which he likes.

DECK
Now there’s an appetizing thought
before breakfast!

REBECCA
Paper is simply not utilized any
longer for the conferral of data.

Deck dresses - puzzles over the fasteners.

DECK
What, you’ve never wanted a copy of
something just to refer to?

REBECCA
Data recall on demand is a nominal
function of the evolved cerebrum.
She flinches.

DECK
Don’t sweat it, Doc. I’ve been
called worse than a dumb ass.
She shakes her head as he combs his hair.
 
REBECCA
It was not my intention - perhaps I
should come back when...

DECK
That’s alright, Doc. I’m not so
cerebrally challenged that I can’t
comb and talk at the same time.

REBECCA
Of course you are not.

DECK
So what’s the current state of
affairs with the androids? It
looks strained from the holography.

REBECCA
Major, systems was programmed to
provide you with data within a
prescribed delineation. Frankly, I
am astonished that you covered the
volume of data string that you seem
to have last evening.

DECK
Yeah, well I do all right for a
missing link.

She looks at him consoling -

REBECCA
Major, your debriefing should be
gradual...

DECK
Let’s don’t treat the old man here
like a mushroom, okay?

She looks at him confused without replying.

DECK
Don’t tell me, you don’t use
sarcasm anymore either?
Slang in my time - a mushroom - it
was low security clearance, to be
kept in the dark and fed bullshit.

She slowly nods, understanding. He pulls on oversize shoes
waging his head until they shrink to fit.

REBECCA
I perceive. No, that sort of humor
is uncommon.

DECK
Great. We’ve become humorless.

REBECCA
Major, the android wars were -
eight hundred years ago.

The math hits Deck like a war hammer - he sits.

DECK
Jesus - there’s a hundred years
already in the data I saw...

He gestures toward the news printouts -

REBECCA
We now have a settlement on Tycus -
a planet like our Earth before...

DECK
I thought at least maybe I might
still have great grand kids around -
but... eight hundred!

He shakes his head and stares out his ‘window.’

REBECCA
It appears that you have
descendants on Tycus. And it has
been eight hundred and sixty years.

He’s stunned, then numb. She lays her hand on his shoulder.

DECK
I’m gonna’ need a minute here.

She pauses, still and silent - a mode that’s natural to her.

REBECCA
Would you care to take a
constitutional?

DECK
Yeah. I could stretch my legs.
She‘s puzzled at his comment; before ‘reading him’ says -

REBECCA
Major, your entire muscular,
skeletal system was mechanically
rehabilitated in...

DECK
Figure of speech, Doc.
 
She nods, now perceiving him and feeling foolish. They leave
together.

CUT TO:

INT. NATALIE BAKER’S HOME, MEREDITH’S OFFICE - DAY

Meredith telepathically works at a computer. Enter Natie in
Psi Corps UNIFORM; she’s at Meredith’s back. They COMMUNE -

NATIE
I know, mom. I’m sorry, but I had
to. I set a new standard on the
qualification matrix.

Meredith turns slowly, tears in her eyes; looks at the door -

REECE (O.S.)
Yes ma’am, I know you can perceive
me out here.

A uniformed Reece slinks in, stands by Natie, holds her hand.

NATIE
If anyone should survive, with my
psi rating, I certainly should.
...I know it doesn’t make me
invulnerable.

MEREDITH
(hoarse)
You may never recover your mind.
Natie LOOKS AWAY. Meredith wipes away a tear and
telekinetically pops up three holo-screens from her computer:

1.) A pair of comparative DNA strands.
2.) A genealogical tree reaching from Natie to Deck.
3.) An image of Deck.

NATIE
What to you mean, I come by it
honestly? And damn him - who?

Natie faces Meredith and the PROJECTIONS - sees answers -

NATIE
The Major, he’s our... from thirty
generations back?
 
Natie and Reece are stunned; Meredith numb. Natie parts from
Reece and goes to her mother for a hug. They weep.
DISSOLVE TO:

INT. HALLWAY, MARTIAN SETTLEMENT - LATER

Deck and Rebecca walk by PASSERSBY who stare. He waves -
they nod and press their hands together like “praying hands.”

DECK
Hey, how are ya?
No responses from the curious bald, tall, gangly - humans.

DECK
Not big talkers. But they make up
for it in height...

An ANDROID passes who’s closer to Deck’s stature.

DECK
Most anyway.

REBECCA
Generations of evolution on Mars
and on the E.P. in micro gravity
impacted growth and vocal chords
became dormant with telepathy.

DECK
Not all... your shorter folks?

REBECCA
Androids remain at original specs
from your era.

DECK
Just the Alpha in my time. How do
you live with them after they
nearly killed off the human race?

REBECCA
Even in your time, enemies of one
war became allies of the next.

DECK
Sounds like there’s been more
fighting since...
 .
REBECCA
We made alliance without threat.
And I have had a voice implant to
interact with you.

DECK
You trying to make me feel like I
owe you, Doc?

They enter -

INT. HANGAR ON MARTIAN SETTLEMENT - CONTINUOUS

A Hangar bustles with tall, bald MECHANICS who work at their
“Man ‘O War”, translucent starfighters.

REBECCA
But another threat now looms.

He listens -

REBECCA
Major, I have been charged with
enlisting your support for an
imminent military campaign.

He shakes his head and smirks; looks away, then back at her.

DECK
Listen, Doc. I spent the last five
centuries being haunted by what I
did most of my life. I only used
to be a fighter jock. You know...
now I’m just a very old astronaut.

REBECCA
What one experiences is not
possible to forget.

DECK
Tell me about it! So you’ll
understand why I’m not real keen on
the prospect of jumping straight
from thaw-out into live fire again.

REBECCA
War is a terrible thing.

Deck looks away nodding slowly. He notices a Mechanic
sipping a black, steaming liquid from a clear decanter.

DECK
I could sure use a cup of java.
 
She looks intensely at him to understand -

REBECCA
Do you desire coffee?

DECK
If you haven’t evolved past it.

She gestures toward the door; it slides open and they go.

CUT TO:

INT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, THRONE ROOM - DAY

Emperor Kamaso studies grainy satellite PHOTOS of Primus, his
crescent blade slung over his shoulder. ENTER Capt. Nedal.
Kamaso SIPS a STEAMING BEVERAGE from an animal SKULL.

Nedal stands at attention and strikes his chest in salute.

ALL KANTURAN LANGUAGE is accompanied by SUBTITLES:

EMPEROR KAMASO
Captain Nedal. Were your orders
unclear - that you were to survey
Tycus on a reconnaissance mission?

CAPTAIN NEDAL
No Sir! But the humans appeared
emaciated and soft. They seemed
like easy prey, even for one unit.

EMPEROR KAMASO
Your failure was not lost warriors!
We’ve lost our element of surprise
before a full scale invasion. Our
technology left for their eyes.

CAPTAIN NEDAL
I thought we could defeat...

EMPEROR KAMASO
Your orders were not to THINK but
to OBEY your Emperor! Your
ambitions exceed your abilities.

Nedal bows in a show of humble regret.

CAPTAIN NEDAL
I will not fail you again, my Lord.

EMPEROR KAMASO
No, you will not, Captain.

Emperor Kamaso slings his blade in a flash from his shoulder
into the head of Nedal, killing him instantly.

He pulls his blade from the crumpled body of Nedal and wipes
his bile-like blood from the blade onto Nedal’s uniform.

Emperor Kamaso’s PERSONAL AIDE, cowering, drags away Nedal’s
body as the Emperor sips his steaming beverage in a skull.

CUT TO:
INT. EXECUTIVE DINING HALL, MARS SETTLEMENT - MOMENTS LATER

Steaming cups of coffee in hand, Deck and Rebecca sit at a
table for two. Other COLONISTS sit at other tables eating
breakfast as an ANDROID SERVER works the room.

DECK
Evolved beyond combat acumen?

REBECCA
You perceive accurately, Major.

DECK
So, why don’t you send your android
allies after this new threat?
They’re fast, strong, programmable.

REBECCA
They fought with us during the
initial Kanturan assault. The
alien race has experience with
artificial life forms and they
utilized cyber-viral warfare
transmitted digitally. Technology
is the android’s Achilies’ heel.
Every android combatant perished.

DECK
Forgive me if I don’t grieve their
loss.

REBECCA
Major, the enemy plans on besieging
Tycus again with greater numbers.

She gets his attention - right between the eyes.

REBECCA
I also have family there. My
husband died during their initial
attack. The Kanturans ...
 
DECK
I know... somehow I know... we
expect them to spare no one.

She telepathically considers him a moment and is surprised -

REBECCA
You are... your latent psi
potential is evident.

DECK
Why don’t you just evacuate Tycus!?

REBECCA
Our other colonies are at capacity.
Tycus is our largest and our only
natural habitat.

DECK
Seems I have little choice. That’s
clear without the ESP.

Suddenly, Walter’s holographic image appears beside them.

Deck is only mildly taken off guard -

WALTER
I hope I didn’t startle you, Major.
I’m Walter Van Der Ree, General
Director of the Alliance.

Walter extends a hand; a confused Deck shakes it.

WALTER
I’m so delighted you’ve agreed to
come on board.

DECK
First one of those I’ve gotten.

WALTER
I’m a student of history, Major.

DECK
Particle transporter?

WALTER
No, I’m here via holograph.

Confused, Deck looks at his hand.

WALTER
It’s been developed to project
limited tolerance, mass.
 
DECK
I guess so. You’re eavesdropping.

WALTER
Not at all. That’s exciting new
technology, just developed for
practical application days ago.

Walter looks to Rebecca then at Deck again with a twinkle in
his eye; like a kid with a new toy -

WALTER
You see, Deck; may I call you...

Deck nods absently -

WALTER
Excellent. The telepathy bioenhancer
is, in simple terms, like
a mental radio amplifier.

REBECCA
It is how you were discovered in
the ice. Even in stasis, your
delta brain waves were detectable
to our new, augmented sensors.

The Android Server brings their breakfast.

WALTER
To the heart of the matter, then.
Deck and Rebecca eat as they listen -

WALTER
Deck, your leadership is needed
training our cadets for Thunderstar
- our military campaign against the
Kanturans. Our cadets keen of psi
proficiency, and are growing in
strength from Tycan gravity. But
no one in our military has any
actual combat experience.

REBECCA
Or the acumen you possess.

WALTER
The Kanturans on the other hand...
I’ll have all data string on them
exported to your port immediately.

Walter glances toward Rebecca.
 
WALTER
I understand you’ve a voracious
appetite for holography.

DECK
When does the training start?

WALTER
Basic is already underway. Advanced
begins upon your arrival - as soon
as the good doctor clears you.

DECK
Then I’ll do all I can to expedite
the process.

WALTER
I’m certain you will, Major. Now,
if you’ll excuse me, I must go.

They nod and Walter’s holographic image blinks out.

DECK
Tell me about my family.

REBECCA
The Bakers. Meredith and her
daughter, Natalie. Natie is a
recent recruit to the Psi Corps.

DECK
Are there others?

REBECCA
Before the Kanturans - on Primus.
It was assaulted aggressively.

His jaw clenches; he looks out the window to lifelessness.

CUT TO:

INT. FLIGHT SIMULATOR ROOM, MARTIAN BASE - LATER

Deck enters a dark room with Rebecca and the lights come up.
They approach a translucent flight simulator. Deck climbs
into a cockpit designed to fit taller pilots and smirks.
Rebecca actually smiles and mentally switches on the unit -
the seat shrinks to fit him and a harness automatically
secures him as a skullcap adheres to his head.
 
REBECCA
The material is not rigid like the
craft with which you were familiar.

A tutorial projects into the air before his eyes; fiber optic
tethers on his skullcap aglow. Simultaneously, a monitor
projection appears before Rebecca.

REBECCA
Work through the tutorial at your
pace. I will monitor your vital
signs.

In the cockpit Deck follows the tutorial through a -

SERIES OF SHOTS:

Deck’s arms and legs are enveloped with ‘virtual reality
sleeves’ that control the craft.

The room “disappears” to become a holo-deck.

The craft becomes nearly invisible and Deck’s jumper -
camouflaged to nearly match the background of starry space.

Glowing fiber optic lines are nearly all that’s visible.

Deck reflexively maneuvers the craft through syn-space.

A pair of Kanturan star fighters attack; they dogfight.

Deck blasts them from the sky and four more appear.

More dogfighting ensues; Deck holds his own.

BACK ON SCENE IN THE SIMULATOR ROOM

Rebecca’s monitor projection shows Deck’s cerebrum MAXED.
The lights come up and the simulator winds down. Rebecca
looks away from her monitor projection to an amped Deck.

REBECCA
Your cerebral interface is
encouraging, but you appear to have
had enough for your first session.

Deck remains in the simulator, energized, examining the
cockpit now more visible to the naked eye.
 
DECK
Damn thing feeds tutorial on the
fly, doesn’t it? And its weapons
system... I only thought to fire
and...!

REBECCA
Like voice actuation in your time,
but telekinetic.

DECK
That’s an amazing piece of work.
How proficient are the cadets?

REBECCA
They need training, but all have
measurable potential...

A SILENT continuation slips -

REBECCA (V.O.)
Via genome overlay.

Deck, concerned, PERCEIVES her. He claws at his restraints.
They release him and he climbs out.

DECK
You’re doing memory cloning?

REBECCA
Correct. Category Two cloning.

DECK
Isn’t that still dangerous?

REBECCA
Cellular rejection has been
overcome.

DECK
I’m talking about wiping out the
host’s memory. Is that overcome?

REBECCA
Those complications have been
largely resolved as well.

He studies her skeptically -

DECK

I wish I could read you like you
read me.
 
His knees buckle and he falls. She gets him to his feet and
out the door to -

INT. HALLWAY, MARTIAN SETTLEMENT

Rebecca helps Deck along as he recovers his balance.

REBECCA
We should get you back to your
suite. This is nominal recovery
curve from cryogenic suspension.

DECK
Humans have become no better at
lying, or more caring about their
kids who they send into combat -
‘brain fucked’ by their leaders.

REBECCA
I wear the responsibility like a
massive weight, Major. Bitter
sacrifice is required in some
measure for the good of the whole.

DECK
That logic hasn’t changed either.

REBECCA
And all recruits are volunteers.

DECK
Volunteer lambs to the slaughter.
Tell me this much, if these kids
survive, what are their real odds
of recovering self awareness?

REBECCA
Perhaps better than surviving war.

DECK
Point taken.

He braces himself against the wall - dry pukes; looks at a
closed port/door nearby and stumbles toward it; he recognizes
it from his dream-vision of the clone incubation ward.

REBECCA
Deck, this is not your suite.

DECK
I know.
 
REBECCA
Let me help you there.

DECK
No! Show me the cocoons...

He pounds on the door. She looks apologetically at a PASSER
BY who telepathically offers help - she waves him off.

DECK
This is - where you keep them - the
Cat Ones.

She tries to feign ignorance -

REBECCA
If you’re referring to our Category
One Clones, they are classified...

DECK
I’ve already seen ‘em. Floating in
amniotic fluid in their cocoons -
their coffins, being indoctrinated.

She’s taken aback -

REBECCA
The bio enhancer has remarkably
accelerated your psi proficiency.

INT. CLONE INCUBATION WARD, MARTIAN BASE - CONTINUOUS

Rebecca leads Deck into the dark room. Soft lights illumine
the area as they enter. Orderly rows of clone incubation
chambers stand upright - clones afloat within.

Deck surveys the spectacle and hunches over to dry heave
again. Rebecca helps him stand upright and he steps away
from her. A pair of CRYO TECHS approaches from a control
room to help but Rebecca waves them off. They stand down.
He approaches a clone cylinder and peers through the portal.
He touches the chamber. The clone’s eyes OPEN. Startled, he
steps away. He glances through the portals of two others.
He points at the incubation chambers as he staggers away -

DECK
It’s like looking into a mirror...
I’m the template - my genome...

REBECCA
That is... classified -
 
DECK
Do you really think I’m that dumb?

REBECCA
I do not think...

DECK
What kind of cold bitch are you?

REBECCA
I beg your pardon?!

DECK
Who made the call on this? Walter?

She bears his anger silently and tries to help him to the
door. He pulls away from her and stares at the spectacle.

DECK
You bastards.

INT. DECK’S SUITE, MARTIAN BASE - LATER

Deck collapses into his berth, looking as old as he feels.

DECK
Window diffusion - ninety-five
percent. Sleeping music - play.

Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata” plays softly.

His room as dark as his mood - he sleeps, perchance to dream.

INT. LIVING ROOM, NATALIE BAKER’S HOME ON TYCUS - DAY

Natie wears a military uniform bearing the insignia of the
elite, Psi Combat Corps. Kit bag in hand, she sits on the
couch next to her mother, Meredith who weeps; Natie hugs her.

EXT. NATALIE BAKER’S HOME, PORCH/ FRONT YARD - MOMENTS LATER

The front door opens and Natie steps out leaving Meredith
standing alone in the doorway.

Natie joins Reece seated in his levitating hovercraft at the
curb. His chain dangles from his neck to the diminium disc
in his mouth. Natie gets in the hovercraft and waves at her
mother as they depart.
 
Reece lets the disc fall and it spins rapidly, “grows” a pair
of fiber optic like lines that imbed into his ears, and
cruising MUSIC plays to the -

SERIES OF SHOTS:

EXT. SUBURBAN STREETS - DAY Reece’s hovercraft silently
glides through the eerily quiet suburbs of Primus.

EXT. LIGHT COMMERCIAL AREA - DAY The hovercraft moves
through Primus passing quaint shops, past other futuristic
vehicles, patriotic posters, banners, holographic “Thor”
images, and yellow ribbons as well as Alliance Flags.

EXT. BEACH - DAY Reece and Natie walk from their hovercraft
levitating in the ‘docking area’ (parking lot) toward the
ocean where they sit and watch the sun set.

EXT. SUSPENSION BRIDGE - NIGHT Their hovercraft crosses the
vast, striking bridge with a single, centered row of
suspension cables artificially lighted from below.

EXT. MILITARY BASE, TYCUS - NIGHT The hovercraft silently
pauses at the base check point, then passes through to the
inner area of the base.

INT. DECK’S SUITE - NIGHT Sleeping, Deck’s “R.E.M.
shadowing” of Natie and Reece on their last night of freedom
drifts to the stars above, through the Tycan system, to the
Milky Way.

END SERIES OF SHOTS

MATCH CUT TO:

EXT. EARTH’S PERIMETER WHEEL - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NIGHT

Deck’s unconscious mind drifts through a portal in the
diminium skin of the E.P. to peer into the Assembly Hall.

INT. ASSEMBLY HALL, E.P. WHEEL - CONTINUOUS

A full gathering of nearly a hundred Alliance “ASSEMBLYMEN”
(including women and androids) stand about the room or sit in
the round about a huge, circular table. Like a small, future
version of the U.N.

SILENCE belies the communication suggested by focused
attention and animated gestures.
 .
Walter steps behind a lectern on a dais and those remaining
on their feet efficiently take their seats at the table.

WALTER
My fellow Assemblymen. I greet you
on this auspicious occasion...

Holographic imaging projects a huge display in the hall of -
Deck’s Viking 27 from the Martian excavation.

Deck’s prescient dream catches only dribs and drabs of:

WALTER
Like a fabulous treasure drawn from
some great, sunken vessel in the
sea... a twenty sixth century
spacecraft sunken in Martian ice...

Holo images project Deck’s rehabilitation in post cryo
stasis, including his recent exercise in the simulator.

WALTER
... a decorated, certified combat
Ace and possessor of the highest
compliment of psi-combat instincts,
our answer to the Kanturan
threat...

The holo-image projection changes to display Rebecca’s lab
work with the Cat One clones as Walter introduces her.

WALTER
...our Chief Bio-Medical Researcher
at the Vincennes Colony, Dr.
Rebecca Cane...

Rebecca's hologram appears next to Walter who surrenders the
lectern to her; she addresses the Assembly. Her initial
dialogue is for the computer -

REBECCA (V.O.)
Initiate data string downloads of
technical specifications, node -
Cane, dot R G, dot Vincennes clone
project.

Holographic data screens project from the tinted glass tops
in the circular table around the room. Each Assembly Member
watches a personal holo screen as Rebecca speaks aloud -
 
REBECCA
We have successfully created one
hundred, Category One clones and
two hundred, Category Two clones
for training on Tycus...

Deck’s dream scape carries him out of the Assembly Hall to -

SERIES OF SHOTS:

1.) INT. KITCHEN, A HOME ON TYCUS - DAY A FAMILY gathers
around a dinner that looks like Thanksgiving. The teenage
SURFER DUDE/son wears a military uniform. They hug him as he
stands to leave; all wear yellow ribbons on their clothes.
A byte of Rebecca’s voice from Assembly Hall echoes over -

REBECCA (V.O.)
...utilization of Category Two clones is not undertaken without
the most sober consideration.

2.) EXT. COMPETITIVE POOL - DAY A team of SWIMMERS, boys and
girls in swimsuits, gathers by the pool after practice
awaiting a female, SWIM TEAM SOLDIER who emerges onto the
deck from the locker room in military uniform; she sees a
giant yellow ribbon around the dive tower to express
sentiments for her commission. Hugs and weeping ensues.

REBECCA (V.O.)
...although the potential complications of our mission are
considerable, as is the jeopardy of lives at stake...

3.) INT. CLASSROOM - DAY A SPIKY HAIRED STUDENT in a cadet’s
uniform is celebrated by his CLASSMATES and TEACHER around a
decorated ice sculpture of Thor.

REBECCA (V.O.)
... the calculated risk appears merited.

4.) EXT. BASEBALL FIELD ON TYCUS - DAY A BALL PLAYER takes a
pitch - hits the bit ball, and enjoys the company of friends
INCLUDING REECE; they surprise him with a Red Jacket with
Thor embroidered on back and the elite, Psi Corps logo (a
Phoenix) on front; Reece high fives and ‘bro hugs’ his pal.

REBECCA (V.O.)
We must perceive and accept the
responsibility for the risk and for
the task at hand.
 
5.) INT. NATIE BAKER’S HOME, LIVING ROOM - DAY Meredith
looks at a holo photo of Natie smiling in her military
uniform - tears well up in Meredith’s eyes.

REBECCA (V.O.)
...research suggests excellent
likelihood for complete reversion
of the tenanting genome from our
Category Two hosts...

6.) EXT. PRIMUS UNIVERSITY CAMPUS ON TYCUS - DAY A pair of
STUDENTS hugs, he in military uniform and she in civvies.
Yellow ribbons flutter from trees all around them and the
holographic ‘statue’ of the school’s founder has been
replaced by one of Thor, war hammer circling overhead.

REBECCA (V.O.)
...our genetic transplant process
demonstrates potential for clearly
superior, combat proficiency...

END SERIES OF SHOTS

INT. DECK’S SUITE, MARTIAN BASE - DAY

Deck’s eyelids flutter furiously in R.E.M. as his telepathic
vision quest carries him from the Tycan solar system back to -
CONSCIOUSNESS. Deck sits up, awake; sweat beads on his brow.

TIME DISSOLVE:

INT. SHUTTLE BAY, MARTIAN BASE - DAY

A cruiser class starship composed of sparkling diminium fills
the bay. The cruiser is a star crossed spawn of the concord
and the space shuttle, but far larger as offspring often are.
It’s built for inner and outer space travel.

Passengers board - VIPs and MILITARY BRASS in dress uniform.
Cryo Techs levitate the cylindrical, Cat One clone chambers
through a rear hatch. Only a DOZEN COCOONS with Cat One
Clones remain to be loaded on board.

Rebecca silently directs the operation. She checks the vital
stats on each chamber as they are loaded on the starcruiser.
Enter Deck in standard Corps Uniform; he approaches Rebecca.
 
DECK
Did I miss a memo? I didn’t know I
was supposed to wear dress blues.

REBECCA
It is not requisite, Major.

DECK
Maybe not, but I feel like a sore
thumb.

She breaks from her clone inspection to glance curiously at
his thumbs.

DECK
Figure of speech. I’m stickin’ out
like a sore... under dressed.
...About last night - I said some
things I probably shouldn’t have.

REBECCA
Not without understandable reason.
I regret the situation in which you
have been placed, Major... Deck.

She nods understanding, then her expression goes blank -
she’s distracted just before -

Walter appears before them via holographic transmission.

WALTER
Major Blair.

Deck nods coldly at Walter.

WALTER
How are you feeling. No
reservations I hope?

DECK
Put your mind at ease, Von
Frankenstein. Seeing the
atmosphere of Tycus isn’t going to
cause me undue psychological
stress, stirring up memories of
Earth and all that jazz.

Walter is stunned, then impressed -

WALTER
Well, Major Blair - extraordinary!
 
DECK
Doc’s had me doing exercises with
the skullcap. It’s got synapses
firing I never knew I had. But I’m
still partial to speaking my mind
if you take my meaning.

REBECCA
The Major’s proficiency is not
incredible, given the latent, psi
abilities with which he is endowed.

DECK
Now that hurts, Doc! And I thought
I was coming along pretty well.

She looks at him, mock sternly, grasping his sarcasm; he
smirks back.

DECK
(to Walter)
Way I see it, I’d rather visit a
vital Tycus than a ruined Earth.
Chances for a family reunion on
Tycus are better there too.

WALTER
Your resilience is hardy, Major.
I’ll leave you to your work. Good
luck on Tycus!

Walter blinks out as suddenly as he arrived. Deck starts for
the star cruiser and glances backward at Rebecca who surveys
the last of the clones being loaded -

DECK
If you don’t find me up in first
class, I’ll be in the back -
chilling with the clones.

Rebecca smiles wryly, amused.

INT. CRUISER CLASS STARSHIP, PASSENGER CABIN - MOMENTS LATER

Seated with Deck are four Military OFFICERS (all bald, tall),
and a dozen POLITICIANS (half human, half androids) - all
silent whether lost in their own thoughts or those of others.
Enter Rebecca who sits in the empty seat next to Deck.

DECK
It was all clones back in coach -
and up here too; I hope this’ll do.
 
She gets his sarcasm and, though she smiles slightly, she
discretely raises her hand across her mouth - palm outward.
In turn, he puts his index finger to his smirking lips -

DECK
Yeah, I wouldn’t want to offend
anyone, right? Seems everyone
already finds me offensive. You’ve
got me on their wave length now,
remember? Dumb grunt - missing
link - iceman.

REBECCA
It is not like that with all.

DECK
Pretty nearly all.

REBECCA
Because they do not understand.

DECK
When do we get this show on the
road?

He looks out the portal to see stars blur by as she notes -

REBECCA
We are already en route.

DECK
So we are. I’ll get use to it - I
still expect some kind of G Force.

REBECCA
Of course - from plasma drives...
in your era.

DECK
You using ion propulsion now?

REBECCA
Also centuries ago. Mag Levs.

DECK
Damn, I really am old school.

REBECCA
Don’t think of yourself that way.

DECK
That wasn’t a contraction I heard
there, was it, Doc?

REBECCA
Trading a measure of accuracy for
efficiency.

DECK
Since you’re mellowing, mind if I
ask you a personal question?

REBECCA
(playful)
It wouldn’t stop you if I did.

DECK
Good point. What’s with the
rampant baldness? I can’t cherry
pick your minds on this ‘cause no
one gives it a thought.

REBECCA
Hair has not been essential since
early man when it aided survival.

DECK
Yeah, well they also said the
cerebellum was overrated.

REBECCA
We’ve similarly evolved past it.

DECK
The data string says it was
engineered out of the gene pool.

REBECCA
Technical point, but correct. From
there more was engineered away -
disease, criminal behavior,
deviance... along with creativity.

DECK
You became perfect; perfectly dull.

REBECCA
Even worse than we are now.

DECK
You’re comin’ along, Doc.

REBECCA
I’m not referring to artistic
creativity - alone. Ultimately, we
found that corollary to eliminating
aberrant behavior was losing
creative cognition.
 
She shrugs her shoulders then pauses - looks around before
continuing, then she continues in hushed tones -

REBECCA
Creative edge was necessary to
conceive radical, new technology
and tactics during the android wars
- to save our species. Telepsi
Renaissance followed. Androids
could not stop telekinetic fouling
of their cybernetic systems.

He absorbs this, nods; takes a tangential tack -

DECK
Some of you have hair...

He touches a length of hers that’s over his shoulder.

REBECCA
It was dormant and made a comeback
during the reverse, genetic
engineering revolution. It
returned with creativity - a symbol
of rebellion for humans.

DECK
Some things never change.

She realizes her flourish of enthusiasm; pauses almost
embarrassed. He smiles, knowingly -

DECK
You’re just full of repressed
emotions, aren’t you?

REBECCA
Major!

DECK
You’re usually cool and collected
and now, in two minutes you show me
you can relax, have a sense of
humor - have prejudice.

REBECCA
You make me sound fiendish!

DECK
No, Doc - just human.

He looks out the portal lost in thought. Her expression
shows concern, then dissolves to a self satisfied smile. He
knows she’s reading his mind.
 
DECK
Yeah, Rebecca. I’m glad you’ve
decided in favor of hair. Rebel is
a good look on you.

She visually plunges deep into his eyes. Her facial
expressions show she appreciates his flattery and whatever
else he’s thinking and he reciprocates without a word.

EXT. MILITARY BASE ON TYCUS - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NIGHT

Aside from perimeter security lighting and glowing force
field barrier, the only light shining is in a window to the
bio-med lab. A shroud of silence envelops the base.
Through the window to the bio-med lab, the silhouettes of a
score of cadets levitates horizontally above lab tables.

MATCH CUT TO:
INT. MILITARY BASE ON TYCUS, BIO-MED LAB - NIGHT

A hundred, teenage CADETS hover above high tech medical
tables that fill the room. All Cadets are tall and gangly -
humans; most are bald, most males and a few females.
All wear sheer hospital gowns instead of military uniforms.
Glowing fiber optic lines trail from the heads of each as
monitors project above all showing their vital signs.

All vitals show: “DORMANT - CAT 2 CLONE GESTATION PHASE”
The subtle hum of technology is the only sound in the quiet.
A pair of LAB PHYSICIANS silently monitor the gestation.
Reece and Natie hover side by side in supine position staring
blankly at the ceiling. Reece’s CD is between his lips - its
chain hangs slack around his neck.

They turn their heads to one another and reach out to hold
hands. Their teary eyes meet. She communes and he replies -

REECE
Natie, I won’t forget you either.
I promise, we’re both coming back
from this!

Reece and Natie look back up at the ceiling in unison. Small
appliances extend from the tables beneath all of the hovering
cadets. Throughout the still, quiet room, the sounds of
pneumatidermic INJECTIONS quietly WHISPER.
 
Pneumatic injections penetrate the base of Reece’s and
Natie’s skulls. Their hands fall away from each other limply
as Reece’s CD falls behind his head and dangles on its chain.

SMASH CUT TO:
INT. CRUISER CLASS STARSHIP, PASSENGER CABIN - CONTINUOUS

Deck fitfully dozes next to Rebecca who works at a holo
projection computer in her lap; his eyes flutter - R.E.M. He
wakes startled! She looks at him, questioning.

DECK
Yeah, sure. I’m fine. Just had
another vision quest. I’m starting
to hate dreaming... and I need my
rest, you know.

He leans forward and rubs the base of his neck, then checks
his hand for blood. None there.

EXT. MILITARY BASE ON TYCUS - DAY

CADETS silently march about the grounds as others, gathered
in groups, silently perform exercises elsewhere.
A formation of fighter craft practices maneuvers in the sky.
The transport Star Cruiser approaches and another fighter
formation meets it to escort it to the Base’s landing pad.

EXT. LANDING PAD - MOMENTS LATER

An HONOR GUARD of: two FLAG BEARERS, two ion RIFLEMEN, syn
snare DRUMMER and syn TRUMPET PLAYER in dress uniform PLAY
the Alliance’s ANTHEM as MAGNUS RYKER and Primus’ Procurator -
RHEN DEMOINET, formally greet the dignitaries disembarking
from the star cruiser - Deck and Rebecca first and foremost.

A squad of CORPSMAN stands behind the Magnus - their
commanding officer; all military men ‘salute’ with their
right hands to chest - forearms parallel with the ground,
fingers fully extended and thumbs over heart.

Deck and Rebecca lead the dignitaries to the Magnus and
Procurator and Deck salutes in like fashion as Rebecca
exchanges greetings with the Procurator with the customary,
’praying hands’ gesture.

Ryker smiles at Deck’s salute, the band stops playing. The
Magnus greets Deck verbally with a gruff voice implant -
 
MAGNUS RYKER
Major Blair, I am Ryker, the Corps
Magnus - and this is the Procurator
of Primus, Rhen Demoinet.

Rhen’s voice implant is melodious.

DEMOINET
On behalf of Primus and all of
Tycus, we welcome you.

DECK
Thank you. It’s very beautiful,
Tycus. Like the Earth I remember.

Despite his assurances to Walter, Deck chokes up.

MAGNUS RYKER
Our intention is to keep it this
way.

DECK
I understand. I’m with you,
Magnus.

A CENTURION signals the Honor Guard and they turn and march
from the landing pad followed by the Magnus and Procurator,
then followed by Deck, Rebecca and the other dignitaries.

Refrigeration hovercraft approach the rear port of the star
cruiser as the hatch opens revealing the clone pods within.

INT. MILITARY BASE ON TYCUS, MESS HALL - DAY

A hundred cadets - ‘Cat 2’ clones, sit silently, eating in
unison - nearly robotic or at least as emotionless.
Android MESS SERVERS slop food onto trays of incoming cadets
who pass down the line like zombies.

Reece sits and eats, expressionless. There is a space at the
table diagonally across from him and a listless Natie
approaches with tray in hand to sit there.

Natie looks across the table as she eats lethargically -
makes incidental eye contact with others and scans by, then
makes eye contact with Reece and gazes for a moment -
Enter Magnus Ryker leading Deck and other military and
civilian VIPs through the mess hall on tour. Cadets don’t
regard their visitors with any attention.
 
A DRILL SERGEANT steps with authority on a dais at the head
of the mess hall and he telepathically commands the cadets -
All RISE in unison, deposit their trays on a conveyer belt
and EXIT.

Natie glimpses the departing Reece with a trace of longing.

INT. MILITARY BASE ON TYCUS, BIO-MED LAB - LATER

The room is filled with the hundred cocoons containing ‘Cat
One’ clones.

The pair of Cryo Techs finishes securing the last pod into
place and removes the mag lev device from the cylinder.
Rebecca scans the clone’s retina through the portal on the
cocoon with a hovering scanner. She then observes the holo
data screen projecting the vitals for the last clone.

The Cryo Techs turn to move away and Rebecca speaks -

REBECCA
Thank you.

The Cryo Techs turn and faces her, startled. They look at
each other shocked. She looks a bit embarrassed, then rolls
with it.

REBECCA
Habit. A new one - vocalizing.

They nod, understanding, and go about their work, draining
the last series of clones’ cocoons.

TIME DISSOLVE:

The Cat One clones, out of their incubation pods and wearing
medical gowns, levitate over medical slabs with fiber optic
tethers trailing from their heads and hoses from their
bodies. Holo projection screens display their vitals.

Opened cocoons are removed from the room telekinetically by
human TECH AIDES.

Enter Deck as Rebecca examines a Cat One clone with a noninvasive
scanner.

DECK
How goes the cooking project, Doc?

REBECCA
It seems they’re coming out fairly,
how would you say it?- Well done.
 
DECK
This one looks a little rare to me.

REBECCA
Finished briefing with the Magnus?

DECK
We’re good to go.
She glances at him curiously.

DECK
Nominal.

She nods and moves on to the next levitating clone,
telekinetically moving a scanner over his body.

REBECCA
I perceive you.

DECK
The Magnus thought we should get a
head start with the Cat Twos; that
these guys could catch up quickly.

REBECCA
Theoretically, that should hold
true. Recall that we’ve not had
practical experience with this for
centuries.

The Cryo Techs look annoyed at their verbal exchange.

DECK
(to Cryo Techs)
Believe it or not, she can still
concentrate just fine, even with
all this - vocalization.

They look surprised at his apparent ability to ‘perceive’
their thoughts.

DECK
(to Techs)
Didn’t think my cerebrum could
perceive you, did ya?

They look away, flushed, and busy themselves examining other
clones as Rebecca moves her scanner to examine another also.

DECK
Telepaths!

She smiles subtly at him.
 
DECK
The Cat Twos seemed kind of lack
luster today.

REBECCA
That is nominal for phase two of
gestation. It should last only a
day or two.

DECK
That explains the day off.
...Doc, I asked the Magnus about
going into town later - you know,
to see what we’ll be fighting for.
He said you also had plans to go
there...

She pauses her work and levitates her scanner to a cradle.

REBECCA
Of course. They’re keeping close
tabs on us for the duration. I
would be grateful for company.

Deck watches the Cryo Techs who steal glances toward them.

DECK
(to Cryo Techs)
Hey, no eavesdropping over there!

They focus on their own business as Deck smiles at Rebecca -

REBECCA
Perhaps we could go after dining.

EXT. PRIMUS CITYSCAPE - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NIGHT

The pristine, futuristic cityscape is stunning by the soft
glow of solar powered phosphon emitters. In the midst of the
metropolis is the impeccable, quaint, Victorian, Town Square,
evoking comfort and wholesome ‘old Earth’.

EXT. PRIMUS TOWN SQUARE - SAME

The picturesque, old fashioned style is juxtaposed with high
tech structural elements: holo projected “missing dog”
posters, fixed levitating phosphon emitters for street lamps
and traffic signals, hovercraft parked in porcelain like
“everwhite” driveways or streets. Comfort of old with new.
 
Uniform, yellow ribbons adorn manicured trees of perfectly
uniform dimensions and holographic Thunderstar posters
featuring Thor project on picket fences and store windows.
Deck and Rebecca walk around a pond in the town square; a
marble fountain set in its center.

REBECCA
When I was a child my father used
to take me here for ice cream or to
attend theatre. He would commune
to me what a privilege it was to be
a first generation Tycan - to
breathe oxygen created organically
by flora... rather than breathing
regenerated air on Vincennes.

DECK
I guess it’s easy to take for
granted what we’ve always known.

PASSERSBY look at them oddly for verbalizing.

REBECCA
And assume it’ll always be there.
My late husband, Androclese, was an
architect and a history buff who
loved this bygone era. He thought
it gentler than our own.

DECK
It was never utopia - in my life
time or before.

REBECCA
Of course not. He was a realist.
He insisted on security measures in
structures though some designers
didn’t even want cell imaging
sensors on doors. Certain town
elders thought we were past the
turbulent times - past fear of
violence. But of course, Andy -
She tears up at the memory.

DECK
He sounds like my kind of realist.
They come upon a grassy memorial ground where holographic
images of “headstones” project from micro chips.
She find’s Androclese's holo-mortuary mask and is pensive.

Deck puts his hand on her shoulder tenderly.
 
REBECCA
He too believed in the beneficial
effect of tactile contact.

Rebecca kneels and strokes the “face” of her late husband;
the limited mass hologram allows her to ‘make contact.’ Then
she stands, composes herself, and turns to leave.
REBECCA

I’m glad you joined me, Deck.

DECK
Yeah, me too.
...You think it’s too late to pay a
visit to...?

He finishes his unspoken thought silently looking into her
eyes. She shakes her head with a smile, implying approval -

EXT. NATALIE BAKER’S HOME, PORCH - NIGHT

Deck and Rebecca walk from their ‘docked’ hovercraft to the
front door. Meredith opens the door to meet them.

Meredith’s face reflects mixed emotions. She holds back
tears, steps aside and invites them in.

INT. LIVING ROOM, NATALIE BAKER’S HOME ON TYCUS - CONTINUOUS

Meredith sits in a chair, struggling for composure as Deck
and Rebecca sit together on the adjacent sofa.

MEREDITH
(hoarse)
I was expecting you.

DECK
Please, Mrs. Baker, it’s not
necessary for you to speak, I
can...

She raises her hand to stop him - perceives he’s telepathic -

MEREDITH
(hoarse)
Why, yes you are now, aren’t you?
Developed that latent telekinetic
proficiency they said you had...

He looks at a holo-photo of Natie in her military uniform.
 
Meredith’s emotion changes and she scowls at him; he’s hit
hard with a wave of her emotions and he’s visibly stunned -

DECK
I’m sorry - it wasn’t my plan to
come to this time and place and...
I realize that Natalie inherits her
saliency from me!
(bitterly)
Yes, I do know how it feels. Do
you realize that you may be my only
surviving family also?

Meredith relents, sobs, then gathers herself. She stands,
communes with them about refreshments, and Deck replies -

DECK
Please, don’t trouble yourself.

Meredith shakes her head, insisting. Rebecca rises to help
but Meredith waves her off.

Meredith leaves the room and Deck stands. He strolls down
memory lane with Rebecca by his side as they look at cycling
holo galleries of family photos. Deck finds an actual FRAMED
PHOTO and HOLDS it, relishes how it feels, moist eyed, as -

Meredith enters with a TEA SETTING for three; sees the photo -

MEREDITH
(hoarse)
I’m a soft spot for antiques. They
are somehow warm... comforting.

Deck nods acknowledgement as he looks at the photo.

DECK
This is your grandpa?

Meredith nods as she sits and serves tea.

Rebecca picks up another FRAMED PHOTO of Natie, communes to
Meredith and Deck as they sip tea -

DECK
Yes, she is a beautiful girl.
(in reply)
And you have every reason to be
proud of her, Mrs. Baker.
...Sure - Meredith.
(in reply)
 I would liked to have met her
before too, but it’s best to keep
it professional until after the
campaign; there’ll be time for
family reunion after. You can be
assured I’ll do my damnedest to...

Deck chokes up; Meredith is SLAMMED with a flurry of images
from Deck’s Mind - she glimpses via Deck’s MEMORIES a -

FLASHBACK:

Captain Nedal leading the initial Kanturan assault on Primus.

Natie holding hands with Reece in front of their home.

Natie being tested in the Holy of Holies.

Natie, in Psi Corps uniform with Reece, parting ways with
Meredith on the front porch.

BACK ON SCENE IN LIVING ROOM

MEREDITH
(hoarse)
Vishnu Rama. But you have been -
in communion with us since your
reanimation. Astonishing.

DECK
Somehow - yeah, you’re right. I
can’t tell you how, but...

Meredith hugs Deck and they tear up, like a child and a long
lost father. Then they step back and gather their composure.

DECK
Count on it. She is my greatgranddaughter
too, right?

EXT. NATALIE BAKER’S HOME, PORCH - MOMENTS LATER

Meredith gently closes the door as Deck and Rebecca return to
their levitating hovercraft.

DECK
I’ve always been lousy at family
reunions.

Rebecca pats Deck on the back as they go.

DECK
And you know I don’t like the idea
of the girl being in the Psi Corps
anymore than her mother.

REBECCA
I perceive you. It would seem that
fate has an appetite for irony.

He nods in numb agreement. As they climb into their
hovercraft and depart, Meredith telekinetically moves the
curtains away from a window in the house and watches them go.

CUT TO:

INT. MILITARY CAT 2 CLONE BARRACKS - NIGHT

Dark. Silent. A hundred clones sleep/gestate motionless on
long lines of cots with glowing, fiber optic lines mooring
their craniums to technology panels.

Natie’s eyes pop open with panic and confusion. She bolts
upright, disoriented - hyperventilating. She pulls her fiber
optic tethers away and stumbles to the lavatory.

INT. LAVATORY, CAT 2 CLONE BARRACKS - CONTINUOUS

Lights come on as Natie runs to a sink and vomits. She
splashes water on her face, straightens up and looks in the
mirror - DOESN’T RECOGNIZE herself - though her own face.

Identity CRISIS - as old self fights new memory overlay -

Natie backpedals into the wall and slides to the floor. She
buries her head in her hands and SOBS.

Booted footsteps approach as her red, vacant eyes gaze up.

Enter the Drill Sergeant. Natie stands at attention.

He telepathically barks a question to her; she nods in reply.

He underscores his query verbally -

DRILL SERGEANT
Are you certain, Cadet!?

NATIE
Sir, yes Sir! I’m good, Sir!

DRILL SERGEANT
Then get back into your rack.
Training starts at O six hundred.
 
He watches her turn crisply and move efficiently back into
the adjoining barracks.

INT. MILITARY CAT TWO CLONE BARRACKS - CONTINUOUS

Natie lies down and places her fiber optic skullcap on her
head. No sooner are her eyes closed than Emperor Kamaso
SKULKS from the shadows and raises a blade over Natie’s head -

SMASH CUT TO:

INT. DECK’S SUITE, MARTIAN BASE - CONTINUOUS

Deck wakes in a cold sweat, stumbles out of bed bleary eyed
and dashes from his room in boxer briefs.

EXT. MILITARY BASE ON TYCUS - CONTINUOUS

Deck sprints across the grounds in his boxers. Sentinels
salute as he passes - they exchange incredulous looks.

INT. MILITARY CAT 2 CLONE BARRACKS - MOMENTS LATER

Deck runs quietly in bare feet as he looks from cot to cot -
he finds Natie’s; where she lies - sleeping peacefully.

His eyes dart about; he looks under her cot, speaks quietly -

DECK
Computer - scan for Kanturan life
forms.

VOICE (V.O.)
(filtered)
No Kanturan life forms detected.

He walks away slowly, runs his fingers through his hair, and
looks wild eyed if not hysterical.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. MESS HALL - DAY

A hundred Cat Two clones silently wolf down their breakfast.
They appear slightly more animated today.
Deck eats at an officers’ table with senior officers
including Magnus Ryker.
 
Rebecca looks at Deck with concern; he replies -

DECK
What sort of problem?

She discretely places the back of her hand over her mouth -

DECK
Like they can’t perceive what we’re
communing!
(to the Magnus)
Is there a problem with the clones?
‘Cause if there is, I should know.

MAGNUS RYKER
It would appear that one of them
may be exhibiting rejection...

Deck looks at him urgently; asking silently -

MAGNUS RYKER
No, the Cat Ones are nominal. A
Cat Two. During the metamorphosis
into phase three - over night...

Deck looks stunned; looks to Rebecca -

DECK
Natie...

Rebecca simply nods, regretful.

DECK
What does that mean? Will she be
alright?

REBECCA
We can’t know without further
observation. But they don’t want
to lose her - she’s among the
highest rated in potential psi
proficiency.

DECK
(bitterly)
Yeah, it runs in the family...

REBECCA
Deck, I will maintain close
observation of her personally.

Deck gathers himself and nods gratefully at Rebecca.

EXT. MILITARY TRAINING GROUND - DAY

The full compliment of 200, Cat Two Clones stand in rank,
file and order behind two CENTURIONS and ten DRILL SERGEANTS.

In front of the troops, Magnus Ryker stands at attention on a
dais as Deck approaches. Deck trades salutes with the Magnus
and faces the cadets. Deck surveys and addresses -

DECK
Men and women of the Phoenix Corps,
you have been selected to carry out
a mission of the utmost importance.
Operation Thunderstar!

The Cadets remain focused - actually, almost glassy eyed. A
few show glints of “awareness”: among them Natie and Reece.

SERIES OF SHOTS:

EXT. MILITARY TRAINING GROUNDS - DAY Cadets push themselves
hard through an obstacle course, crawling, climbing, jumping,
helping fellow cadets. THOR icons appear: a tattoo here, tee
shirts there...

DECK (V.O.)
You fight for your lives. For your
brothers in arms. For your
families, your homes, and for the
very survival of humankind!

INT. MILITARY FLIGHT SIMULATOR HALL An enormous hanger
filled with fifty simulators - each jukes and jives to the
mental commands of cadet pilots within; all have fiber optic
tethers connecting their craniums to their fighters.

DECK (V.O.)
Your ears are likely still ringing
from bio interface... from your
incubation, but I know in your gut
you perceive why you are here. You
are the greatest hope for Tycus.

INT. FLIGHT SIMULATOR Deck leans into a cockpit and plays
back a dogfight sequence - tutors the pilot.

DECK (V.O.)
Your preparation has redefined your
focus - to bear you undistracted
into battle. Afterward you will
recall your reasons for fighting...
family and loved ones dear to you.
 
EXT. MILITARY BASE, FIRING RANGE Cadets fire at holo targets
with high tech weapons.

DECK (V.O.)
Until then, in the days and weeks
ahead... Those to your right and
left will be your family. Your
officers - like your fathers...

END SERIES OF SHOTS

BACK ON SCENE AT TRAINING GROUND

DECK
I too will be your commander as
well as - your adopted father.

Natie’s eyes fix on Deck briefly, sparkle with recognition,
then return to fixed position straight forward.

DECK
Now, I know you’ve been exercising
your vocal cords, so I want to hear
‘em! CAN YOU GIVE ME A WAR CRY?!

The Cadets remain still but ELECTRIC. All brim with bridled
ENTHUSIASM - yet all are so conditioned to silence - THEN -

A PRIMAL SCREAM cuts loose, fierce and loud from Reece!
The rest of the Corps joins in a few at a time until all echo
the cacophony as one -

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. GYMNASIUM - LATER

All 200 Cadets stretch on the floor of an immense gymnasium.
Deck approaches a dais covered with judo mats and Rebecca
approaches him before he steps up -

REBECCA
Don’t you think you’ve worn them
out sufficiently for one day?

DECK
You tell me. Cryo-med’s hooked up
to everyone of their neural nodes.

Rebecca glances at Cryo Techs surveying multiple holo
displays from stands at the perimeter of the gym.
 
REBECCA
They have a little more. But we’re
nearly at tolerance. Another hour?

DECK
Alright, then. One more drill.
MEANWHILE Natie finds Reece and tugs at his sleeve.

NATIE
Great war cry at reveille.

REECE
Thanks.
She takes his hand in hers -

NATIE
I just knew it had to be you,
torqued to make his voice heard!

He looks at her hand on his, uncertain -

REECE
I’m sorry, have we met?

The light in her eyes dims; she releases his hand -

NATIE
I perceived you to be - someone
else... my mistake.

She turns away, disappears into the crowd and tears up; he
watches her go with an expression of vague reminiscence.

Natie goes to the front of a line as she wipes away a tear.

Deck ascends his Dais. A Centurion HOLLERS -

CENTURION
Ten Hut!

All 200 cadets efficiently fall into order at attention.
Deck picks up a Gothic looking, crescent Kanturan Blade -

DECK
This is the hand to hand weapon of
the Kanturans. They wield it well.
Since our tactics call for some of
us to breach Kanturan atmosphere,
there’s potential for close combat.
Should you exhaust your ion
weapons, you’ll use your own,
standard issue - katana...

Deck holds up a diminium katana.

DECK
Perhaps the finest blade design
known to man... that’s even older
than me.

A few muted laughs from the Cadets, warming up progressively.
Deck looks up and speaks into the air -

DECK
Holo tech: katanas - standard
safety protocols.

Diminium ‘holo katanas’ appear and hover in front of all 200
Cadets. Deck assumes a fighting stance with his katana and
the Cadets all grasp their katanas and do the same.
DECK

We’ll start with fundamental
exercises and progress as you’re
ready. Begin!

Deck demonstrates a front strike, block and recovery. All
200 follow crisply - EASY.

He shrugs, nods, gives ‘em more -
front strike and block, side kick, pivot to rear block
and strike, round house kick capped with a leaping, high
kick.

All 200 mimic the form perfectly in absolute unison.

DECK
(whispers to self)
Jesus - uncanny!

In the assembly, Reece makes his own observation -

REECE
(whispers to self)
Shiva - that’s torqued!

Deck engages in an extended, highly complex series of kendo
exercises that the Corps mirrors perfectly as if it’s been
programmed into their genes... He nods to all -

DECK
Alright, forms are one thing.
Kumate another. I need a
volunteer!
 
Natie steps forward without hesitation. Deck hesitates, then
gestures her forward; she steps onto the dais with Deck.

DECK
(to the assembly)
Our katanas are superior in
composition to the Kanturan blade.
But both can cut a soldier down if
they don’t wield their weapon well.
(to Natie)
En garde!

Natie strikes first and without pause! Deck deftly blocks
and counter strikes - she also blocks and steps back, stalks.
The holo blades are programmed for audio. They crash and
clang (the Kanturan metal) on impact.

He strikes again and she blocks, counter strikes and is
almost swept by Deck’s counter kick. She circles, pauses,
then strikes hard over head - her katana -

SHATTERS Deck’s blade where he holds it over his head and -
PASSES THROUGH DECK’s body from head to toe!

An unharmed Deck nods at Natie, respectful.

DECK
Well done, Baker.

Her holographic katana flickers where it meets the floor -
solid above. She withdraws her katana.

DECK
You’ve studied Kendo?

NATIE
No, Sir! Not that I recall, Sir!
They bow to each other and step back; turn to the group -

DECK
The holo-katana realistically
demonstrates the superior tolerance
of diminium. And if Cadet Baker
has never studied swordsmanship,
then her instincts are excellent!
All of you will need to trust them.
(to Natie)
As you were, Cadet.

He nods to Natie who returns to her place in line -
 
DECK
The combat instincts planted in
your memory will help you
anticipate your enemy’s attacks and
give you the advantage. Form pairs
for kumate!

SERIES OF SHOTS:

1.) Cadets show amazing skill and dexterity as they spar.

2.) Deck walks the floor, pausing to offer pointers.

3.) Natie spars with her partner - shows exceptional skill.

As Deck passes, he nods - impressed and proceeds.

4.) Reece sees Deck approach and shows off; gets distracted

making an impression and gets “killed.” Deck wags his head.

END SERIES OF SHOTS

Deck ascends again to the dais and the Centurion BARKS:

CENTURION
Ten Hut!

The Cadets fall back into place in rank, file and order.

DECK
Good work today, Cadets. Keep
focused and we’ll make more
progress again in the morning.

CENTURION
Company dismissed! Fall out for
mess!

The Cadets disperse in orderly fashion. Natie lingers and
Deck notices. He gestures for her to approach -

DECK
Something on your mind, Baker?

NATIE
Sir, I hope that my conduct was
acceptable - the demonstration...

DECK
It’s only unacceptable if you don’t
fight to win, Cadet. You’re
training for victory, not defeat.
 
NATIE
Sir, yes Sir! ...Of course, I did
have a superior weapon, sir.

DECK
Don’t make excuses for me, Baker.
You’re very good.

NATIE
Sir, thank you, Sir!

DECK
(smirking)
You’re dismissed, Cadet. Go get
some chow.

She offers a crisp chest level salute, pivots and leaves.

Rebecca approaches and they watch Natie go.

DECK
She’s damn sharp.

REBECCA
What is that old saying I’ve heard
Walter use - about apples falling
nearby trees?

DECK
Yeah, I follow.

They walk together toward the exit -

DECK
You sure you didn’t download a
Kendo tutorial to their skullcaps?
REBECCA

Only data string can be downloaded
through cerebrum interface, not
skill sets.

DECK
Then it’s a Hell of a group.

REBECCA
They received an excellent gene
overlay, you should know that...

She stops short; looks away embarrassed without breaking
stride; he smiles at her slip -
 
DECK
I know where the gene template came
from. So you can stop dancing
around the issue like the latest
big swing revival. I’m the donor
and the teacher, but if I don’t
also act like a commander, we’re
all done for.

She smiles nervously at his observation and looks to him to
silently offer her thanks for the relief from the burden -

DECK
You’re welcome... You know, it’s a
good thing for you that I go for
tall women.

She nods appreciating the overture.

REBECCA
Join me for dinner at my suite?

DECK
You cook outside the lab too?

REBECCA
I can operate a replicator.

INT. REBECCA CANE’S SUITE - NIGHT

Rebecca and Deck lie in bed together under silk sheets. Jazz
fusion music plays softly. Wine glasses are on the bedstand.

REBECCA
I bet in your, what used to be your
era, you could convince a woman
that you didn’t put her out of your
mind the moment you rolled over.

DECK
No, I just put her out of my bed.

She picks up a pillow and playfully puts it over his face -

REBECCA
I should put you out of your
misery.

He pulls the pillow down and peeks out -

DECK
Just caveman humor; I surrender.
 
She relents and removes the pillow -

REBECCA
Strong, primal warrior, indeed!

They kiss.

DECK
I can’t keep a thing from you, can I?

REBECCA
Especially when a mind’s as focused
as yours. Strong thoughts project
strong impressions.
(in reply)
Yes, I’ll download Kanturan tac
specs to the cadets’ skullcap feed,
but I can’t say when the Cat Ones
will join us for training.

DECK
Can’t? As in - not allowed to say
or don’t know?

REBECCA
(somber)
You’re focused to obsessive extent,
Major! It’s classified.

DECK
Well, the Cat Ones should be
training with the rest of the
outfit - for esprit de corps and
basic training. Whatever they’re
up to, I should be in the loop.

REBECCA
The Assembly’s rationale has been
trustworthy from my experience.

DECK
You know - now they’re pulling some
of my key kids for some other
classified bullshit relating to the
Cat Ones: Natie and the Reece kid.
(in reply)
I don’t know - something on mission
specialization. Which, if that’s
the case, what mission? And why am
I not in the loop?

His jaw drops and his eyes narrow angrily at Rebecca. He
gets out of bed and dresses in haste.
 
She’s alarmed; she gets up and pulls on a robe -

REBECCA
What are you doing?

DECK
How long were you going to try to
keep this from me?

REBECCA
Deck, you know military protocols;
I was obligated by those to whom I
report - as are you...

DECK
And they’re gonna classify victory
out of reach if I can’t prepare our
soldiers for the campaign.

REBECCA
If you won’t respect the Assembly,
respect the mission!

DECK
I don’t honor missions, I honor
worthy commanders. And I can’t
honor a commander who would send
his field marshal into war
blindfolded.

He goes for the door; she darts to intercept him.

REBECCA
Then never mind honoring the
politicians; don’t betray my
inadvertent, betrayed confidence.

DECK
Your deception dishonors you.

REBECCA
I didn’t mean to; I didn’t think...

DECK
Underestimated the caveman again.
He storms out of the room; she follows.

INT. HALLWAY, MILITARY BASE - CONTINUOUS

Deck stomps along with purpose as Rebecca keeps pace.
 
REBECCA
Where are you going?!

DECK
What, you can’t cherry pick my
brain?

REBECCA
You’ve acquired competent shielding
capabilities.

DECK
Score one for the iceman. I’m
going on a fact-finding mission.
He shoots her a look and his thoughts. She’s mortified!

REBECCA
You can’t go there.

DECK
Watch me.

They exit the officer’s barracks.

INT. MILITARY FLIGHT SIMULATOR HALL - LATER

Deck enters with Rebecca. The dark room is dimly aglow with
juking fiber optic lines on the heads of Cat One clones
engaged in SILENT, simulated combat; their sims spin WILDLY
FAST - like a rave show for the hearing impaired.

REBECCA
Apparently it was impractical for
the Cat Ones to join the others.
They’re more disassociated than
projected. I have orders to keep
them isolated in sim tech.

DECK
I want Walter on a com link now!

REBECCA
He’ll be sound asleep.

INT. REBECCA CANE’S SUITE - MOMENTS LATER

In SILENCE, Rebecca sits nervously as Deck stands looking
with anticipation at a glass table top from which projects -
Walter’s hologram - he’s rumpled and hastily groomed.
 
WALTER
Doctor Cane; Major Blair. You had
me concerned that something
terrible was the matter, communing
for holograph at this hour.

DECK
You bet something’s the matter!

WALTER
It sounds like you’ve stumbled into
an angry hornet’s nest.

DECK
What’s happening here is ludicrous,
Van Der Ree!

WALTER
Major, everything is done as it is
for good purpose, and due time...

DECK
Due time?! When I’m flying blind
around the Cancer Nebula wondering
why the Hell my attack force isn’t
working as a unit!

WALTER
That won’t happen...

DECK
Damn right it won’t! ‘Cause I
won’t allow it with troops in my
charge!

WALTER
May I speak uninterrupted?

DECK
If you say something worth hearing.

WALTER
We all desire victory. In time you
were to know of our plan for the
Cat Ones.

DECK
I want them training alongside the
others tomorrow!

WALTER
I’m afraid that’s impossible.
 
DECK
Like Hell it is; they’re looking
fully capable to me!

WALTER
The good doctor has already
informed you of their abject lack
of social skills.

DECK
They’ll pick ‘em up as we go.

WALTER
The lack is too profound. In the
process of engineering them, select
capabilities are augmented in
exchange for others that must
remain inert by necessity.

DECK
That’s a damn poor design for any
form of life, whether human or...

REBECCA
Deck, the Cat Ones were cultivated
at an extreme accelerated rate;
bred from ovum into prime maturity
in weeks.

DECK
Jesus, so these kids... if they
survive the war...

REBECCA
They’d be geriatric in months.

WALTER
It was the only way to have them
prepared in time for the campaign.

REBECCA
They’ll only be in their prime for
weeks.

DECK
You have the perfect, expendable
fighting machines - kamikazes.

REBECCA
War is a terrible thing.
 
WALTER
We didn’t believe it was essential
to distract you from mission
preparation with situation ethics.

Deck lets it sink in, uneasy.

WALTER
I need to know, Major, if this
changes anything regarding our
relationship. Can we still count
on your support?

DECK
If it changes anything? Yeah, it
does. But at least I know what
cards I’m holding.

WALTER
I’m not clear on the period
metaphor, Major - your rage is
clouding my perception of your...

DECK
You heard of poker, Walt? It’s a
twentieth centuries card game.
It’s just damn hard to play
blindfolded. I’m still here. I
just want a chance to come out of
this thing on the other side.

WALTER
As do we, Major.

DECK
And the Cat Twos you’re
commandeering from my training?

REBECCA
The Cat One’s need leadership.
Their lack of autonomy is also
profoundly stunted.

DECK
Meaning what, exactly?

WALTER
They’re literally phenomenal at
what they do; they just need
constant aid to properly focus
their lethal force.

Deck shakes his head, then speaks without looking at Walter -
 
DECK
You got anything else for me? Or
should I just keep stumbling around
blindfolded?

WALTER
I believe, Major, you’ve seen all
the cards you’re holding.

At the last of his double talk, Walter gives Rebecca a brief,
unpleasant look of salutation, then blinks out without a nod
to Deck, leaving them together in awkward silence.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. REBECCA CANE’S SUITE - DAY

Sunrise peeks through the window in the silent suite as
Rebecca stirs looking hung over.

INT. DECK’S SUITE - DAY

Sun also peeks into Deck’s empty suite as the sound of the
running shower comes from his bathroom.

CHIME, CHIME, CHIME!
Alarm sounds softly, but urgently followed by the clatter of
running boots in the hallway outside of Deck’s door. Deck
emerges from the bathroom with a towel and jogs to the door -
opens it - a MESSENGER CADET stands there.

MESSENGER CADET
Major, you are to report to the war
room immediately, Sir!

DECK
What’s going on, Cadet?

MESSENGER CADET
Sir, the force is being scrambled
for immediate deployment, Sir!

INT. MILITARY WAR ROOM - DAY

Deck enters to find the Magnus, the Centurions and several
politicians already seated. Deck takes his seat.

DECK
Can I get a sit rep, gentlemen?
 
MAGNUS RYKER
We have received intel string from
Psi Corps - the Kanturans stepped
up their invasion schedule. If we
are to hit them in their solar
system before they launch, we will
need to get underway immediately.

DECK
How certain is the intel?

MAGNUS RYKER
Psionic Corpsmen are unproven in
combat; otherwise they’re
impeccable.

DECK
We’ve just begun training...
Another Disheveled Politician stumbles in and sits.

DISHEVELED POLITICIAN
They know that.

The Politician holo-projects images from the Kanturan War
Room of -

Photos of: Deck, Rebecca, Natie and Reece surrounded by
aerial photos of Primus and the E.P. -

DISHEVELED POLITICIAN
Psionics found this today - traced
to subspace signals from a
satellite they have orbiting Tycus
and a probe orbiting Earth.
The holo image hangs there -

DECK
How!?

DISHEVELED POLITICIAN
We are still cleaning up the space
flotsam around Tycus from their
initial attack and the satellite
looked indistinguishable. It
appears they’ve also been
monitoring import signals of our
androids - seeing clearly into all
our operations.
 
DECK
You’ve forgotten more than how to
fight... being surveilled like
rank amateurs.

MAGNUS RYKER
The alternative is to defend Tycus
with incomplete training. What
does your experience suggest?

Deck feels the weight of decision entirely on his shoulders.

DECK
We take the fight to them as we
are.
(to Ryker)
Can we have the assault tacticals
loaded into their skullcaps for
infusion en route to Cancer?

MAGNUS RYKER
We can. I will have it done.

DECK
Then may Thor and Odin be with us!

The group takes the clear telepathic orders and disperses.

EXT. MILITARY AIR STRIP ON TYCUS - DAY

GROUND SUPPORT CREW prepares three, massive star cruisers -
“Mother Ships” with nose art: Odin on Mother I, Thor on
Mother II, Helviti (flames) on Mother III.

Deck hustles to Odin as the Cat Twos in GREY flight suits
file onto Odin and Thor. Natie searches for Reece to no
avail.

Every head turns as the Cat Ones file from a hangar and march
in synchronicity to “Helviti” wearing BLACK flight suits.
Rebecca runs onto the tarmac followed by Reece in his black
flight suit. They halt the marching Cat Ones. Deck changes
his course toward Odin and marches sternly at her.

DECK
They were supposed to remain inside
until the others boarded! It’s bad
for morale for the others to see
them.
 
REBECCA
I KNOW! They advanced on a
preparatory order before...

DECK
I just hope they’re more responsive
in combat.

He storms off leaving her like a pressure cooker - fuming
with a lid tightly on it.

INT. #1 MOTHER SHIP (ODIN), BRIDGE - MOMENTS LATER

Enter Deck. The SHIP’S CAPTAIN does pre flight systems
checks as do: a TACTICAL OFFICER, a NAVIGATOR, a TECHNOLOGY
OFFICER, and a COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, at their stations.

Deck approaches the Captain.

DECK
Do I understand you’ve got a chair
up here for me somewhere?

The Captain looks at Deck curiously, then with comprehension -

CAPTAIN
Major Blair. Indeed I was advised
to expect you. Although I am
afraid that our stations are
standard postings for lead crew.
...I perceive; I misunderstood you.

DECK
Just a figure of speech, Captain.
I don’t plan on sitting.

EXT. MILITARY AIR STRIP ON TYCUS - DAY

The last of the Cat Ones board Helviti, the hatch seals and
the mother ships lift off.

EXT. OUTER SPACE, TYCUS’ ORBIT
The mother ships rend the fabric of light, space and time
with three colorful flashes as they break warp.
 
INT. #1 MOTHER SHIP (ODIN), BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

Deck stands next to the Captain. Deck observes the fore holoscreen.
Stars blur by as the Captain does a post launch, systems check.

A holograph of Walter appears next to the fore, holo-screen -

CAPTAIN
All systems are nominal, General
Director.

WALTER
Splendid. I wanted to wish you all
a great victory and God’s speed.

CAPTAIN
With gratitude, Mr. General
Director.

Walter nods to Deck who reciprocates with slight deference,
then Walter’s holograph ‘blinks out.’

DECK
(to Captain)
The General Director... I wonder
how eager he’d be to lead an
invasion force of three hundred to
attack a hundred thousand.

CAPTAIN
He would not, of course. He has no
psi proficiency regarding warfare.

DECK
You people make this out to be like
shooting fish in a barrel.
(sarcastic)
Come on in, the water’s fine!
(edgy)
I just hope we’re not wadin’ into
piranha here, Captain.

The Captain looks at Deck, unsure; looks away-

DECK
I’m gonna check on our fishermen.

Deck leaves the bridge.

INT. PILOT’S PROMENADE, MOTHERSHIP #1 - MOMENTS LATER

Pilots sit in groups chatting verbally or telepathically as
other pace nervously or meditate in various forms.

Natie walks the promenade looking for Reece.

Enter Deck. He walks calmly along just being a presence. He
spots Natie looking worried and he approaches her.

DECK
You alright, Baker?

She snaps to attention and salutes. The others instantly
follow suit.

DECK
At ease! As you were, Corpsmen.

They return to their angst.

NATIE
Sir, it’s Cadet Justin. He’s
assigned to this Wing Group, but I
don’t think he’s boarded, Sir.

DECK
Justin Reece?

She nods.

DECK
I’ve been assured everyone’s on
board, but I’ll confirm with
systems and find out for you.

NATIE
Sir, I would be grateful, Sir!

Deck looks as though he’s about to say more, then doesn’t.

DECK
Stay focused, Cadet. Breathe.

She nods. He pats her on the back and goes.

A nearby CADET WITH INFORMATION overhears and approaches -

CADET WITH INFORMATION
You’re looking for Reece Justin?

NATIE
Yeah, I am. Have you seen him?
 
CADET WITH INFORMATION
Saw him boarding Hell’s Fury - you
know, “Helviti”?

NATIE
That can’t be right. Mother
Three’s for the Cat Ones.

CADET WITH INFORMATION
Yeah, the Shadow Wing; it’s what
they’re callin’ ‘em. Like black
death. He’s wearing the same,
black flight suit.

Natie steps back; shakes her head in disbelief -

CADET WITH INFORMATION
I mean, technically the third elite
wing. Everyone’s communin’ about
‘em. I mean, we’re all pretty
whacked after the memory overlay;
but them... Shiva! There’s
complete lack of cognition in ‘em,
except for the chill of malice
rollin’ off ‘em like grim reapers.

NATIE
Reece is a Cat TWO!

Heads turn, then look away again.

CADET WITH INFORMATION
Combat stress syndrome? Chill,
okay? I’m just reportin’ the news,
not makin’ it.

He walks off wired, mumbling like a junkie on speed.

INT. FLEET BAY, #3 MOTHER SHIP “HELVITI” - CONTINUOUS

A hundred starfighters await activation as their Cat One
Pilots march in. MECHANICAL CREW does final prep as -

Rebecca and Reece enter, he in his black flight suit.

REBECCA
How are you holding up, Mister
Justin?

REECE
I’m find, Doctor Cane.

She scans him with a hovering medical instrument.
 
REBECCA
Your vitals are nominal. Let me
hear your psionic scream.

He winces quickly with eyes still open - bears an expression
that could be perceived as a reaction to a sharp pain.
SHRIEKING is heard by all, although Reece’s mouth is closed.
HEADS TURN to him, then away again after he stops.

INT. PILOT’S PROMENADE, MOTHERSHIP #1 - CONTINUOUS

HEADS TURN here too, including Natie’s, amidst the milling
throng - all HEAR the deafening, psionic war cry.

INT. FLEET BAY, #3 MOTHER SHIP “HELVITI” - CONTINUOUS

BACK TO SCENE with Rebecca and Reece.

REBECCA
You’ll need to project that loud
and clear to lead them. There will
be much psionic noise to rise
above: telepsi communing and
projections of psionic assaults on
enemy technology.

REECE
I perceive you, Doctor.

He looks nervous enough for her to remain concerned -

REBECCA
You’re sure you’re all right?

REECE
Yes, ma’am. I’m just workin’ up; a
node for the mixer, that’s all.

She scrutinizes him, telepathically translating his slang -

REBECCA
Perceived. Do you have relaxation
exercises? Do you meditate, or...

He goes for his CD and fiber and optic lines extend into his
ears (like buds); SPEED METAL music plays as he absently puts
the CD into his mouth and it SOOTHES his nerves.

Rebecca pats him on the shoulder, turns and rolls her eyes.
 .
EXT. OUTER SPACE, KANTURAN SOLAR SYSTEM IN CANCER - LATER

The three mother ships break warp with flashes of light and
hover motionless at the edge of the Kanturan Solar System.

INT. #1 MOTHER SHIP (ODIN), BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

The Captain and Deck look into the forward, holo-projection
display and see a tiny speck in the distance near a Red Star.

The Captain telekinetically enhances the image 2x - the speck
grows, 5x - the speck swells, 10x - the speck becomes visible

- the PLANET KANTURAS.

CAPTAIN
(to Navigator)
Nav Tech, point two parsecs and
orbit a hundred kilometers beyond
Kanturan radar.
(to Tactical Officer)
Alert the Centurions to mobilize
the starfighter groups.

The Captain telekinetically creates an auxiliary, forward
holo-display beside the main screen - it projects activity in
their fleet bay as Cat Two pilots climb into starfighters.

CAPTAIN
(to Technology Officer)
Transmit projection of the holoattack
force.

On the primary, forward holo-display, a faux attack force of
thousands of holographic starfighters swarms forward from
Mother Ship Odin in waves.

CUT TO:

EXT. STARFIGHTER BASE ON KANTURAS - DAY

Jungle surrounds a base where hordes of Kanturan FIGHTER
PILOTS scramble into STARFIGHTERS, FIRE UP plasma ROCKETS and
LIFT OFF.

INT. #1 MOTHER SHIP (ODIN), BRIDGE

The Kanturan starfighter base is projected onto a second,
auxiliary holo-display beside the primary screen - this
monitors the Kanturans taking flight on their planet.
 
DECK
I think it’s time we had the
guerilla tac team start doing more
than remote viewing with their Psi.

The Captain nods and initiates a third, auxiliary viewing
screen that monitors a room full of bald PSIONIC SPECIALISTS
who monitor multiple holo-projections of the action.

The Captain telepathically commands the Psionics. They look
up in unison and nod at the Captain on their holo-display on
the bridge - acknowledging the Captain’s command.

INT. PSIONIC TAC TEAM THINK TANK ON ODIN - CONTINUOUS

Scores of Psionic Specialists are entranced by holo-displays
flickering in front of them.
One holo-display projects an image of the Kanturans’ Flight
Control Tower, then goes inside to view -

INT. FLIGHT CONTROL TOWER, KANTURAN FLIGHT BASE - CONTINUOUS

Three Kanturan FLIGHT CONTROLLERS manage electronic panels
until they GO DOWN. Frantic - the Flight Controllers switch
on auxiliary power - it fails too. They panic, holler, mash
reset buttons, pull component boards... One runs from the
tower in a panic sounding - ALARM!

EXT. FLIGHT BASE ON KANTURAS - CONTINUOUS

Kanturan starfighters, absent orchestrated control, veer into
one another, crash and EXPLODE all over their airfield.
Others get airborne due to skilled piloting.

INT. PSIONIC TAC TEAM THINK TANK ON ODIN - CONTINUOUS

Another Psionic Specialist views on his display the Kanturan
Starfighter Base - sees a fuel tanker parked at the perimeter
of the tarmac - levitates it and hurls it across the sky at a
formation of Kanturan starfighters -

EXT. FLIGHT BASE ON KANTURAS - CONTINUOUS

The fuel tanker arcs through the sky above the tarmac. It
takes out three starfighters in a thundering FIREBALL!
At the airfield’s perimeter, two more fuel tankers take
flight toward Kanturan starfighters flying in formation.
 
EXT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY

Uniformed Kanturans scramble hastily about the grounds
establishing defensive positions.

INT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, THRONE ROOM - DAY

Emperor Kamaso stands at the head of a heavy, Gothic table in
a garishly appointed room. Coats of arms and traditional,
antique weapons hang on the walls.

Emperor Kamaso hammers a malfunctioning computer screen
beneath the clear tabletop in his “War Table” - SMASHES the
glass. His CHIEF ADVISOR backs away. Three COUNCILMEN sit
at the table unfazed by his reaction.

A pair of TECHNOLOGY AIDES scurry in: one with an auxiliary
com-link station, the other with a portable computer.
Two more COUNCILMEN file in with PERSONAL AIDES and sit at
the damaged war table. Several Councilmen work on computers
set in their wrist bracers as others mutter into faltering,
wireless com-links.

EMPEROR KAMASO
KTAU!

INT. #1 MOTHER SHIP (ODIN), BRIDGE

The action in the Emperor’s Throne Room is projected onto a
fourth, auxiliary, holo-display. The Kanturans speak their
language. It’s instantly converted by computer translation:

EMPEROR KAMASO
The audacity of these infidels,
violating our solar system!

COUNCILMAN #1
We will crush them before they
clear the orbit of Danow!

The Emperor sneers at Councilman #1, then looks scornfully at
his other Councilmen.

EMPEROR KAMASO
Easier done with eyes on. What’s
become of our tac tech?!

COUNCILMAN #2
The enemy employs some manner of
viral menace...
 
EMPEROR KAMASO
Find a way to make it work!

He looks with disdain at his Chief Advisor -

EMPEROR KAMASO
What does their fleet number?

CHIEF ADVISOR TO THE EMPEROR
They are outside ground radar
range, but visuals report two
thousand... all attack class ships.

EMPEROR KAMASO
Have we found their mother ship
platforms?

CHIEF ADVISOR TO THE EMPEROR
Remote satellite arrays were the
first to fail.

COUNCILMAN #3
If their carriers broke warp
outside our solar system, their ion
signatures will be beyond our
detection.

EMPEROR KAMASO
Dedicate a score of squadrons to
find their platforms and any
reinforcements - if they have them.

CHIEF ADVISOR TO THE EMPEROR
Our com stations are also failing
in succession, my Lord. Ground to
air contact with airborne squadrons
has become unreliable -

EMPEROR KAMASO
EXCUSES! I WANT RESULTS! FIND
THOSE KTAU MOTHER SHIPS!

The Councilmen and Aides quickly exit, leaving the fuming
Emperor alone with his Chief Advisor.

The auxiliary, holo-display projecting the Emperor minimizes.

CAPTAIN
(to Com. Officer)
Initiate com-link jamming sequence.

DECK
Belay that -
 
Deck opens a case containing a tiny, diminium CD and hands it
to the Captain.

DECK
Don’t just black ‘em out; psych ‘em
out... with this.

CAPTAIN
What is this, Major?

DECK
Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilich. The 1812
Overture. Damn the silent vacuum;
let ‘em hear old school cannons.

CAPTAIN
It is time to launch our attack
wave and withdraw the mother ships.

DECK
Just broadcast it. I’ve got a
flight to catch.

Deck leaves.

INT. FLEET BAY, #1 MOTHER SHIP “ODIN” - CONTINUOUS

MECHANICAL CREW retreat from starfighters prepped for flight.
Enter Deck on a platform above the bay. NATIE NOTICES him
and ALL NOTICE via psychokinetic link; all HEADS TURN to him.
He feels the weight of their attention and addresses them -

DECK
There are no adequate words for a
time like this. You know all you
need to. You are elite. Your
selection was deliberate; your
preparation, well designed; your
training sufficient to the task.
You are... warriors of thunder!

Natie initiates the CHEER and a loud ROAR of CHEERS thunders
from the assembly. Deck raises his hand and quiets the room.

INT. FLEET BAY, #3 MOTHER SHIP “HELVITI”

The cheers in mother ship Odin bear contrast to the Cat One
clones’ dead silence on Helviti. They watch emotionless but
equally rapt at Deck’s holo-address projected before them.
 
DECK (V.O.)
We are outnumbered! Light years
from home. The last line of
defense. The fate of our world is
at stake! But you are the Elite,
Psi Combat Corps!

CHEERS ECHO from the other ships - piped in for effect.
Rebecca and Reece look on side by side -

REBECCA
(to Reece)
Yes, he is inspirational in his
element, isn’t he?

INT. FLEET BAY, #2 MOTHER SHIP “THOR”

A holo-projection of Deck broadcasts here too as pilots,
Mechanical Crew, and Officers cheer enthusiastically.

DECK (V.O.)
Remember who you are and what you
are made of! Trust your instincts.
Fight with heart. Sons of Thunder,
heirs of the legacy of Thor -
Thunderstar Strike Force!

A loud CHEER ROARS from the assembly.
Deck climbs down the stairs from the elevated platform and
strides to his starfighter. Natie approaches him
tentatively, then diverts; he notices - calls out -

DECK
Baker!

She turns, uncertain -

DECK
Indecisive is no way to go into
combat. What’s on your mind?

NATIE
Sir. My mother told me...

DECK
You shouldn’t be able to recall a
thing she told you after the memory
overlay.

She looks worried.
 
DECK
I’m not gonna quarantine you...
you’re still our best damn pilot,
even with your own mind. And I’m
glad you’re back, young lady.

She catches her breath; they exchange smiles.

DECK
Right now, you need to clear your
mind of everything except what’s
next. Focus. There’ll be time
later for... reunions.

They part and climb into their cockpits even as -
Mechanical Crew hustles out of the Fleet Bay before air lock
closes for - DEPRESSURIZATION.

The Starfighters levitate from the deck throughout the bay
and launch in successive waves.

EXT. OUTER SPACE, KANTURAN SOLAR SYSTEM IN CANCER

All three hundred starfighters move in formation, each become
translucent and take on flexible forms more organic in
appearance than rigid and inanimate. As the ships nearly
dissolve into the black background of space, nearly all that
remains visible are the pilots’ glowing, fiber optic tethers.

INTERCUT:

INT. DECK’S STARFIGHTER COCKPIT - CONTINUOUS

Deck surveys his starfighter group.

DECK
Wing Tip to wing groups - we’re
behind the holo force ‘til my mark.

Deck’s two Centurions fly point of two groups: Odin and Thor
squadrons of a hundred each.

ODIN LEADER
Commence Operation Thunderstar!

THOR LEADER
Roger that, Wing Tip; roll out the
primal thunder!
 
Shadow Wing leader, Reece does not register; he’s sweating
profusely in his cockpit, glassy eyed and tight -

DECK
Shadow Wing Leader, are you a go?

REECE
Copy, Wing Tip. Good to go.

A smattering of Kanturan fighters forms to meet the Alliance.
Kanturans blast at the lead Alliance fighters. They’re
confused to find - they only fire through holographic images.
The 1812 Overture plays over their com links as -

Real Alliance fighters fly into the fray in stealth and wreak
havoc within the Kanturan ranks.

INT. KANTURAN STARFIGHTERS

A Kanturan pilot, confused and angry, curses in Kanturan.
Another fires then his weapons system fails. He retreats and
then his plasma drives fail. He floats powerless - howling.

EXT. OUTER SPACE, KANTURAN SOLAR SYSTEM IN CANCER

More Kanturans join the fray and are blasted to bits to the
cacophonous accompaniment of Tchaikovsky.

INT. NATIE’S ALLIANCE STARFIGHTER

Natie’s squad blazes through a crowd of Kanturans as they
dodge enemy fire and coolly pick off Kanturan fighters.
A pair of Kanturans pursues her squad despite stealth cover.

She focuses and telekinetically fouls their plasma drives.
They tumble powerless - erratically hurtling through space
into other Kanturan starfighters where they CRASH.

CUT TO:

INT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, THRONE ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Emperor Kamaso watches the battle on a video monitor,
cringes, growls, BELLOWS -
 
EMPEROR KAMASO
KTAU!

A Councilman’s Aide enters with a report and Kamaso growls at
him. The Aide drops the folder and beats a hasty retreat.

EXT. OUTER SPACE, KANTURAN SOLAR SYSTEM IN CANCER

The dogfight is joined by more Kanturans. Fewer are duped by
Alliance holo-fighters and they scan space for real enemy
starships with onboard sensors (Kanturan numbers are too
overwhelming for Psionic Specialists or Alliance Pilots to
foul ALL of their technology).

Alliance fighters take out ten Kanturans for every Alliance
loss, but Alliance losses become perilous.

INT. DECK’S ALLIANCE STARFIGHTER

Deck fires, maneuvers, and barks commands on the fly -

DECK
Wing Tip to Odin - I know you
perceive me, Captain! We need more
echo decoys out here; the Cancer’s
all over us.
(a beat)
Well pull psionics off the ground
assault or there won’t be an air
attack to cover!
(a beat)
Reinforcements? What
reinforcements?!
(a beat)
WHAT?! Get their asses up here
NOW!
(a beat)
WHAT DO YOU MEAN, NON RESPONSIVE?!

EXT. OUTER SPACE, A DISTANCE FROM THE DOG FIGHT - CONTINUOUS

The Shadow Wing slowly GLIDES in formation away from the
battle. The clones’ faces in their cockpits are emotionless.
Reece, in the point starfighter, is paralyzed by fear.

BACK ON SCENE AT THE DOG FIGHT

It’s brutal. The Alliance takes out dozens of Kanturan
fighters at a time but more come like locusts to the harvest.
 
Natie’s squad cuts another path of destruction through the
thick of the enemy, but it costs them. Already reduced in
half from twenty to ten, they lose two more on the pass.
She guides her seven remaining charges out of the fray with
Kanturans in hot pursuit -

Deck sees she’s in trouble and fights toward her squad. He
blasts Kanturan fighters leaving a path of fireballs in his
wake.

Kanturans begin firing ahead of such fiery paths created by
Alliance fighters simply to get a fix on their positions.

Deck goes defensive and flies like an Ace to avoid enemy
ships as he dodges his way to Natie.

DECK
Wing Tip to Odin - where’s our
Shadow Wing? We need ‘em NOW!

Deck meets Natie in the fire fight and they blast their way
out together like Thor and Odin themselves - careful to cut a
juking path to reduce their profiles.

Clear of the fray, Natie takes stock to see her squad reduced
to only four. She silently orders -

NATIE (V.O.)
Zeta squad, regroup with Delta!

Her Zeta fighters follow orders and blister away.

Deck looks at Natie through their canopies -

DECK
Any chance you can influence Mr.
Justin to mobilize his wing group?
I believe he might respond to you.

NATIE
You’ve read my mind, Major. I’m
there.

Natie spurs her starfighter away, toward the inactive Shadow
Wing as Deck peels back to the battle.

BACK ON SCENE AT THE SHADOW WING

Natie’s starship screams toward the Shadow Wing and slows on
a dime, nose to nose with Reece’s. Her gaze bores into his
eyes through his canopy - his like a deer in headlights.
 
NATIE
Hey Cadet, you happen to see a
missing wing group around here?
...Reece, I know you perceive me!
I heard your psionic blast from
Odin in Andromeda, so snap out of
it!

REECE
Natie?

NATIE
Yes. Now would be a real good time
to show me some of that torqued
jukin’ you’re always voxing about.

REECE
Jukin?

NATIE
Jacked piloting, you nit!
(calm herself)
What’s the problem, you got tech
trouble over there?

REECE
Yeah, my... instrument trouble.

NATIE
What, your audio system fragged?

She levitates his CD to his line of sight. His face blank,
he absently puts it in his mouth.

NATIE
No, you nit! Put it in your ears,
not your mouth!

He opens his mouth to speak and the CD falls -

REECE
Reece’s pieces of jukes and jams
and greatest slams from the
twentieth centuries?

NATIE
That’s right, Reece; your good luck
charm.

She telekinetically triggers the ear buds and the fiber optic
lines find their way to his ears. She triggers the CD. It
spins at high speed - HEAVY METAL COMMENCES - something with
an appetite for destruction -
 
His eyes close - then reopen again; he looks at Natie warmly -

NATIE
Reece... is that you in there?

REECE
Shiva! Who’s the loud lout makin'
all that noise?

NATIE
REECE! You’ve gotta get your nodes
raging. We’re getting thrashed
back there!

REECE
I love it when you talk like that.
He looks back through his canopy at the Shadow Wing group
aimlessly drifting behind him.

REECE
Hey, boys; it’s ass kickin’ time!

They take bolt to the sound of his psionic war cry
accompanied by heavy metal music. His war cry transmutes to -

REECE
NATIEILOVEYOU!!!

The Shadow fighters shriek behind Reece into battle.

BACK ON SCENE AT THE DOGFIGHT

Remaining Alliance fighters barely hold on as they hear -

REECE
Wing Tip, this is Shadow Banshee,
we’ve got your backs, roger?

DECK
‘Bout time you joined us, Shadow
Wing. Welcome to the Jungle!

The Shadow fighter group surges into the melee like prodigies
who’ve just discovered caffeine.

A few Shadow fighters are lost in the initial clash, but
hundreds of Kanturans are obliterated like someone hit a
galactic ‘reset button.’

A swath of wreckage lay in the wake of the Shadow Wing as
scores of Kanturans flee from the sheer shock and awe -
 
INT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, THRONE ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Emperor Kamaso watches the mayhem on-screen and goes berserk.
He ROARS and UPENDS his huge war table then throws a chair
across the room where it smashes to pieces against a wall.
His Personal Aide cowers. Another Aide pokes his head into
the room and the Emperor fires his blaster at him splintering
a hole in the door.

EXT. OUTER SPACE - CONTINUOUS

Deck’s starfighter clears the worst part of the mayhem with
Kanturan fighters in pursuit. He barks commands also
projected telepathically as he dodges pursuit -

DECK
Wing One, I need a squad here!
How’re you lookin’ Alpha?
(no reply)
Beta squad, do you copy?

The Kanturans pursuing Deck fire on him ceaselessly as he
rocks and dodges. A pair of Alliance fighters falls in
behind the Kanturans on Deck’s tail and blows them away.

DECK
Thanks Sigma! Any others left in
your group?
(a beat)
Alright, then. Fall in behind me.
Gamma through Kappa, who’ve we got
out there?
(a beat)
Alright, we’re a new squadron.
Fall in formation for atmospheric
re-entry.

Alliance fighters fall in behind Deck in pairs and singles
until he has nine behind him - half a squad.

DECK
Zeta Squad, report!
Zeta, do you copy? Anyone from
Zeta Squad... do you copy?

Natie emerges from the heat of combat. Blasting her way
through, she makes her way to Deck’s cobbled squadron.

NATIE
Roger that, Wing Tip. Room for one
more?
 
DECK
Yeah we do. You’ve got rear, Zeta.
Good to see you.

Deck’s group of ELEVEN Alliance starfighters proceeds toward
the atmosphere of Kanturas.

DECK
Full stealth mode. Evasive all the
way; I repeat - no weapons
discharge. They’re targeting our
blasters.

Another “century group” of a hundred Kanturan starfighters
cruises nearby - toward them, but not at them.

NATIE
Major, eyes up.

DECK
I see ‘em, Zeta; thick at ten
o’clock. Stay your course.
Let’s not give ‘em mag displacement
to scan for either; disengage
propulsion on my mark - three, two,
one, mark. We should just drift
right past ‘em.

Their momentum carries them forward - toward the patrolling
Kanturan group - perilously close to a potential collision -

REECE
Banshee to Gourmet, permission to
support Wing Tip’s incursion team.

INT. FLEET BAY, #3 MOTHER SHIP “HELVITI” - CONTINUOUS

Rebecca surveys the battle on a holo-projection -

REBECCA
Copy that request, Shadow Banshee.
Stay your primary objective.

INTERCUT:

REECE
They’re gonna’ need help if they’re
gonna’ get through, Doctor. I
thought that was the primary
objective?
 
REBECCA
Stay your course, Banshee. They’re
fully stealth. They will avert
enemy contact on present
trajectory.

REECE
No, Doc. Your telemetry’s off from
all the mag levs and ion warble.
They’re drifting right into them.

REBECCA
Your leadership is needed with the
Wing Group, Mr. Justin! Stay...

REECE
Shadow’s running full auto here,
Gourmet. Enemy’s coming right at
‘em outa’ rage. They don’t need my
voice in defensive mode!

Reece bolts from the area with his primal screen only
slightly open. First three, then five and finally ten Cat
Ones follow him in a strafing attack on the century group
cruising toward Deck’s drifting squadron.

INT. FLEET BAY, #3 MOTHER SHIP “HELVITI” - CONTINUOUS

Rebecca surveys the battle on her holo-display, then turns to
the approaching Cryo Tech #1; perceives him, and replies -

REBECCA
No, I don’t think I should override
his nav as long as Shadow Wing
continues performing proficiently.
His group might do well to draw the
Cancer off of the insert group.

EXT. OUTER SPACE - CONTINUOUS

The patrolling Kanturan century group is nearly on top of
Deck’s insert group. Collision begins to look unavoidable -

SIGMA LEADER
Wing Tip, their course is canting;
we’re drifting into them. If we
can’t maneuver, we’re...

DECK
On my mark, active mag levs for
evasive maneuvers. Three, two...
 
REECE
Mind if we crash your party, boys!?

Reece’s small band of ten Shadow Fighters screams with
blasters ablaze at the patrolling Kanturans -

DECK
Hold drive engagement!

Reece’s attack group blinks fully visible as they bank away
sharply from the hornets nest they just poked.

Two squads of Kanturan’s are dispatched to pursue the Shadow
fighters as the other 160 alter course to back them up.

Deck’s squad clears the Kanturans’ altered course and remains
in stealth as they approach the atmosphere of Kanturas.

DECK
Thanks for playing through,
Banshee.

Away from Deck’s group, Reece’s team blinks into stealth
again and wreaks havoc on the pursuing Kanturans.

EXT. SKIES OVER KANTURAS - DAY

Deck’s group of fighters descends through the clouds in full
stealth. Enemy fighters patrol, but don’t spot them.

DECK
We’re good to go for touchdown.
Odin, we need psionic corps support
at the Imperial Palace - foul their
scanners... scrag all their tech.

EXT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE - CONTINUOUS

Armed GUARDS march the perimeter. Armored hovercraft and
weapons batteries reinforce the walls.

A mobile, scanner station is set up in the courtyard manned
by a pair of SCANNER TECHS - their display screens are
operational. Suddenly, all technology fails to the sound of
humming electronics whirring down to silence.

Scanner Tech #1 flips switches and turns knobs urgently. He
pounds on failed equipment. Scanner Tech #2 grabs a radio -

KANTURAN SCANNER TECH #2
(into radio)
Geeling mondoor vida?
(a beat)
Geeling mondoor vida!?

Still no response; he looks at his radio - it’s dead too. He
glares at it, furious -

KANTURAN SCANNER TECH #2
Veed bearish kahund!

And he hurls the radio to the ground, smashing it to pieces.
Scanner Tech #1 steps from his mobile unit to see other
Kanturans scramble about the palace grounds in a similar fix.

Overhead, Deck’s formation comes out of stealth, becomes
fully visible, and descends; five fighters hover out of reach
in the courtyard as the other six land on the palace rooftop.

Cannon turrets rotate on gun towers and heavy weapons in
armored vehicles point at Alliance fighters but none fire.
Kanturan guards dry fire their blasters at the Alliance craft
- ALL are PSYCCHOKINETICALLY FOULED.

Kanturan soldiers flee as Alliance firepower pulverizes their
gun batteries both on the walls and in armored vehicles
around the grounds.

Several stalwart Kanturans draw their crescent blades and
defiantly thrust them skyward - taunting the Allies to land.
The allies, wisely, stay aloft.

EXT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, ROOFTOP - CONTINUOUS

Six Alliance starfighters including Deck’s and Natie’s land
on the rooftop. They blast advancing Kanturan GUARDS.
The Alliance corpsmen bound out of their cockpits. They are:
Deck, Natie and (from the series of shots on Tycus): Ball
Player, Swim Girl, Surfer Dude, and Spiky Haired Student.
Rooftop palace doors fly open and a squad of twelve Kanturan
GUARDS bursts forth with blaster rifles in hand. They don’t
fire.

The Kanturans cast aside their blasters and draw their
crescent blades without breaking stride.

Deck reaches for his sidearm, then checks his draw; the
others in his charge follow as if linked psychokinetically.

DECK
Let’s underscore our point.
 
He draws his katana in front of him and underscores the air.
He assumes a fighting stance and his charges follow suit.

The berserk, advancing Kanturans plough into them.
The odds are 2:1 in favor of the Kanturans, but the skills of
the Alliance kids are formidable. In seconds, a blur of
sword strikes cuts down EIGHT of the twelve Kanturans.

Deck and the Spiky Haired Soldier are free of combatants.

The mortally wounded Kanturan at Spiky Hair’s feet recovers
for a last gasp. He grabs Spiky Hair’s active blaster from
behind and SHOOTS him in the back.

The mortally wounded Kanturan FIRES again at Natie even as
Spiky Hair falls to his knees, dead. The shot GRAZES Natie’s
left leg as she fights her Kanturan opponent.

Deck, leaps at the Kanturan shooter as he fires at Deck.
Deck takes a SHOT in his left arm as he DISARMS the Kanturan
shooter - cleanly severing his hands at the elbows.

Each of the four other remaining Alliance fighters continues
to clash blades. Natie is losing ground against her
assailant, suffering from her cauterized leg wound.

Deck swiftly sheathes his katana, draws his blaster and, in
the blink of an eye, FIRES off four blaster discharges from
his sidearm. The last four Kanturans fall dead, smoking.

Deck gently carries the Spiky Haired soldier’s body to his
starfighter and places him in the cockpit, struggling with
his injured left arm. As the Spiky Haired soldier is ‘auto
secured’ into his cockpit, Deck laments -

DECK
Yes, I am an arrogant, son of a
bitch sometimes. I’m sorry, son.

The other Psi Corpsmen, still recovering from kumate, look
quickly to one to another with confused expressions -

NATIE
Major, none of us communed anything
about you being an...

DECK
No, that thought’s my own.

Deck places his hand on the cellular imager in Spiky Haired
soldier’s cockpit and commands it -

DECK
Auto nav, take him home to Odin.
 
The canopy seals and Spiky’s craft lifts off. Deck looks at
the group intensely -

DECK
Enough of this shit. It’s time for
the main event.

Deck leads his assault team through the rooftop doors with
blasters in one hand and katanas in their others.

INT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER

Kanturan Guards meet Deck’s team and are dealt with in short
order - blasted to pulp or sliced to shreds as the Alliance
dauntlessly advances on the throne room.

A holo image projects from a harness attachment on Deck’s
flight suit - GPS with voice commands.

HOLO GPS (V.O.)
(filtered)
Advance ten meters and bear right.
They advance to the main door and halt.

DECK
Scanners, life form reading -

SCANNER (V.O.)
(filtered)
Kanturans - five, adult males.

A scanner projects an image displaying the five Kanturans -

INT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, THRONE ROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Enter Deck, Natie, Ball Player, Swim Girl and Surfer. All
have blasters at the ready. Emperor Kamaso stands on his
dais at the end of the room with two MILITARY OFFICERS on
either side; all with crescent blades at the ready.
Deck looks to ‘Ball Player.’ He nods and four, tiny “signal
relay” pods hover from his flight suit pocket and levitate
into the room.

Emperor Kamaso looks savagely at Deck while his Officers
nervously eye the signal relays.

EMPEROR KAMASO
Ktau!
 
DECK
To Hell with you, too.

The Emperor glares at Deck - surprised.

Deck nods with a sly grin. He points to his eyes, then the
Emperor’s; the military “Eyes on you” signal.

Emperor Kamaso is distracted by the hovering signal relays -

DECK
Signal relays. We’re broadcasting
on telesponders. Show ‘em your
good side, Emperor Kamaso.

Deck glances directly INTO one of the hovering micro-CAMERAS.

DECK
This message is for every Kanturan
subject.
(back at Kamaso)
We control your technology through
psychokinesis.

SERIES OF SHOTS:

All video shows the stand off in the Imperial Throne Room:

EXT. KANTURAN CITY - DAY The sounds of the broadcast echo in
the eerily quiet city.

DECK (V.O.)
(filtered)
It’s how we’ve fouled your weapons,
your starfighters, and your
communications.

EXT. CITY STREET - DAY Small groups of Kanturan CITIZENS
gather around a T.P. (telesponder) flickering in a storefront
window next to other appliances.

DECK (V.O.)
(filtered)
It’s how we burned your military
bases and decimated your fighter
groups.

INT. KANTURAN HOME - DAY A Kanturan FAMILY watches their
T.P. in stillness, rapt by the broadcast.
 
DECK (V.O.)
(filtered)
It’s how we fragged the
infrastructure, took your power
plants off line, and crashed your
tech systems.

EXT. KANTURAN OPEN AIR, ATHLETIC STADIUM - DAY A structure
like the Roman Coliseum with a technology face lift is filled
with thousands viewing a halted game that looks to have been
brutal and bloody. All eyes fixed on a jumbo-tron.

DECK (V.O.)
(filtered)
And you can’t counter the sabotage.
But we’re prepared to withdraw our
assault if you stand down from
Tycus.

BACK ON SCENE IN THE THRONE ROOM

DECK
The decision is yours. How will
this go?

KANTURAN MILITARY OFFICER #1
Prey vinta, taa borkus ton fourium?

KANTURAN MILITARY OFFICER #2
Ktau!

EMPEROR KAMASO
Porush!

They fall silent at the Emperor’s imperative.

DECK
(to Military Officer #1)
He’s right, you know. What chance
do you stand against our
advantages?

Emperor Kamaso looks at his #1 Military Officer with disgust.
He slashes his crescent blade across his chest, and looks
back at Deck even as his #1 falls dead.

EMPEROR KAMASO
Morbrous rodish scatow!
 
INT. FLEET BAY, #3 MOTHER SHIP “HELVITI”

Rebecca watches a holo-display of the Emperor - she whispers
fearfully, echoing Kamaso’s sentiment -

REBECCA
Death before dishonor.

BACK ON SCENE IN THE THRONE ROOM

The tension of showdown is thick.

DECK
I respect your fearlessness,
Emperor Kamaso. But I implore you
to think of your people!

The Emperor seems to weigh the thought.

EMPEROR KAMASO
Modo kahn pakaverium.

DECK
What sort of proposition... for
resolution?

EMPEROR KAMASO
Kleiger bok kleiger.

DECK
Alright, then. Mano et mano.

The Alliance soldiers gape as Deck holsters his blaster and
approaches the Emperor drawing his katana with his good hand.
Emperor Kamaso spins his crescent blade in circles, grinning.

NATIE
NO!

Natie advances without thinking of herself or the challenge.
TWHUNG! The Emperor’s Personal Aide fires a crossbow bolt
that pierces her belly!

EMPEROR KAMASO
Yakei!

The Aide stands down. Natie crumples. Deck is pissed.

DECK
Old school’s in session.
 
He cradles his wounded arm as he holds his katana in his
right hand. Natie crawls back to her comrades in agony.

Deck and the Emperor stalk each other, study each other -
Emperor Kamaso strikes first - Deck blocks, counter strikes,
and is blocked. More stalking, strikes, blocks and counters
seasoned with deft parries.

The Emperor’s heavier blade wears on him and he becomes
agitated - makes a reckless thrust and Deck sidesteps it,
SLICES the Emperors ACHILLES’ heel with a counter strike.
Emperor Kamaso falls and everyone flinches, advances a step,
but the Emperor pulls himself up and waves off the advance.

EMPEROR KAMASO
YAKEI!

The Emperor grimaces, growls, and stalks Deck, then attacks
with fury. Deck blocks a series of successive strikes but -

Emperor Kamaso drives Deck to his knees as he blocks a heavy,
overhead strike with only one hand on his katana.

The Emperor follows with another overhead strike but Deck
rolls from it and pops up resiliently. He winces in pain.

Kamaso smiles at Deck’s pain; glances at his blaster wound.
He closes again - strikes, presses; he’s strong as an ox if
addled by his injury. Deck holds his own.

Then Deck returns a series of blade strikes that Emperor
Kamaso blocks: high, low, high, low, and then -

Deck delivers a FORCEFUL overhead blow to a WEAK CREASE in
the Emperor’s blade - Deck’s katana -

SHATTERS the Emperor’s blade over his head - the katana
plunges deep into the Emperor’s torso through his shoulder.

The Emperor drops his shattered blade, staggers backward, and
crumples into a pool of his own blood -

BOOTED FOOTSTEPS approach fast from outside the throne room.
The dying Emperor manages to LAUGH at Deck, GURGLING BLOOD -

EMPEROR KAMASO
Bownafum tigo ki fourion, coak ney,
Magor?

DECK
Yeah, the balance of advantage does
tip rapidly.
 
Surfer dude turns and telekinetically SLAMS the Throne Room
DOOR SHUT as Kanturan SHOUTS issue from outside of it.

Huge, stained glass windows on both sides of the throne room
SMASH to shards as Eight Kanturan ARCHERS rappel through.
They FIRE crossbow bolts at Deck’s group in descent.

Swim Girl takes a crossbow bolt through the temple as the
rest of the Alliance team dives behind the toppled war table.

They pop up to return fire with their blasters -

Six archers fall dead from blaster fire. Two more take cover
as the three remaining Kanturan Officers pull crossbows from
coats of arms on the walls.

Surfer Dude takes a crossbow bolt in his right calf.

Eight more ARCHERS rappel through the open windows and draw
fire from Alliance blasters as -

The WALL framing the main door EXPLODES -

A dozen more ARCHERS pile through the breach in the wall and
FIRE crossbow bolts on the totally defensive Alliance group.

The Alliance Corpsmen blast away rapidly, dropping archers
left and right but Natie takes another arrow in her left
shoulder, and Deck takes one in his right. Surfer Dude is
nailed in the chest; it’s non lethal, but he’s in bad shape.

EXT. KANTURAN OPEN AIR ATHLETIC STADIUM - CONTINUOUS

CHEERS erupt from the ROARING, raucous crowd!

BACK ON SCENE IN THE THRONE ROOM

Ball Player pulls the table into the corner of the room to
reduce their exposure. The Alliance soldiers are pinned down
behind the tipped table as smoke and dust settles.

BALL PLAYER
What was that?!

Natie deploys a high tech first aid kit and cauterizes her
wound then the Surfer Dude’s.

DECK
Smells like gun powder. Keep
firing!
 
Another volley of crossbow bolts from Kanturans is exchanged
with Alliance blaster fire. The table is peppered with
crossbow bolts, but it stops the missiles.

SURFER DUDE
Can telekinesis stop projectiles?

DECK
If it can, I haven’t seen it, kid.

Two of the three remaining Kanturan officers lead a charge
with crescent blades drawn and six more Kanturans follow -

Bad move - all are either shot down by blaster fire or
menaced away by it.

Archers fire another volley to cover more reinforcements who
press through the breached wall and through the windows.

The Alliance group is surrounded by overwhelming numbers.

KANTURAN MILITARY OFFICER #2
Scaborium kai morbrous!

Natie smoulders. She snaps off the arrow shafts in her
shoulder and in her gut; winces each time, and YELLS -

NATIE
KTAU! WE WILL NEITHER SURRENDER
NOR DIE; BUT YOU WILL!

She STANDS before anyone can react to stop her.

A kanturan archer takes aim - before he can loose his arrow
Natie focuses a fiercely intense glare at him and his head
JERKS backward as BLOOD SPURTS from his ears and nose -
he falls in a heap - dead.

A volley of arrows and crossbow bolts fire at her; her eyes
roll back in her head as her arms rise upward -
every missile STOPS FLIGHT in mid-air and falls in a clatter to
the ground.

The two Kanturans nearest Natie CHARGE her with crescent
blades drawn and Deck, Surfer and Ball Player aim their
blasters, but before they shoot -

Natie psionically BLASTS them backward as BLOOD SPURTS from
their ears, noses, and eye sockets with such force that their
EYEBALLS EXPLODE!

The remaining Kanturans freeze-

NATIE
Drop your weapons NOW!
 
A few Kanturans whisper to one another and confer -
A “hard case” beside Natie’s position quickly raises his
crossbow but before he shoots, his brain audibly POPS in his
skull-

BLOOD SPURTS from every orifice in his head; he falls.

The balance of the Kanturans slowly drop their weapons.

Deck faces the sole, surviving Kanturan Officer -

DECK
You’re next in command.

The Kanturan Officer nods.

DECK
Take this to your High Council.
Stand down from Tycus and we never
return. Fail to stand down and
fail to survive. ...Even for an
warrior, discretion is the better
part of valor - understood?

The Kanturan Officer nods reluctantly.

Ball Player, the only one unscathed throughout the assault,
sees Deck hobbling. Ball Player approaches Deck and -
He adjusts the mag lev on Deck’s flight suit so that Deck
levitates above the ground. Deck notices his lack of injury -

DECK
You’re just the luckiest son of a
mother I know, Soldier!

BALL PLAYER
Yes Sir!

Natie likewise adjusts hers to assist her movement and Surfer
Dude does the same. They all make their way from the throne
room, unassaulted by the Kanturans as Ball Player levitates
the dead Swim Girl along side of him.

EXT. KANTURAN IMPERIAL PALACE, ROOFTOP - MOMENTS LATER

Ball Player secures Swim Girl’s body into her cockpit and
programs its navigation for auto pilot. Deck looks hard at
Natie, asks her a question silently, and she replies -

NATIE
Yes, Sir. That’s what my special
training was for.
 
He looks into her eyes, nods... then shows alarm -

DECK
What do you mean, you weren’t even
sure it would work?!

NATIE
Well, the training was incomplete,
but it seemed like we needed it...
(flattered)
Thank you, Sir. And yes, I believe
it does... run in our family.

They hug like family, then step back.

The Alliance pilots board their fighters, strap in and take
off - Swim Girl’s starship flies in formation - auto nav.

EXT. OUTER SPACE, KANTURAN SOLAR SYSTEM - MOMENTS LATER

Deck’s small band of six glides through space just outside
the Kanturan atmosphere - around subsiding dogfights.
Natie scans Alliance starfighters looking for -

NATIE (V.O.)
Reece, are you out there? Give me
a shout if you can hear me!

No reply. Deck’s group navigates toward Odin.

INT. FLEET BAY, #1 MOTHER SHIP “ODIN” - LATER

A solemn, “silent buzz” of murmured conversations is had
between the few surviving corpsmen. A few guarded smiles and
greetings convey the sense of Pyrrhic victory.

Natie limps along and looks for Reece; she asks Ball Player -

NATIE
Have you seen Reece?

BALL PLAYER
No, Natie; I haven’t. He’s
probably on Helviti. They
converted it to a medical frigate -
It’s got the most med tech, from
the Cat Ones.

He looks at her injured leg and shoulder and quips -
 
BALL PLAYER
It’s probably where you should be.

She waves off his advice and limps on - sees the verbose
‘Cadet with Information’ and she approaches him -

NATIE
Have you seen Reece Justin?

CADET WITH INFORMATION
I heard none of the Shadow Wing
survived.

Her knees buckle and she falls to the ground. He tries to
help her up -

CADET WITH INFORMATION
Ya’ okay?

She sloughs off his hand, shrinks to the wall and sobs.
The Cadet with Information slinks off.

She regains composure, wipes her bloodshot eyes and looks up -

NATIE (V.O.)
Perceive me, Reece! PERCEIVE MEEE!

INT. PILOT’S PROMENADE, MOTHERSHIP #1 (ODIN) - MOMENTS LATER

Natie limps numbly along, her red eyes look hopeless, when -
SWOOSH!

A door opens and through it ENTERS Reece. Her eyes
fly open in stunned exhilaration! He only looks just a
little startled. She stands slack jawed as he winks at her -

REECE
We did it!

She wipes away a tear. He notices and hugs her. She winces -

REECE
Hey, it’s alright. We made it,
just like I promised, right?

He pulls back to look at her again, his arms still around her
shoulders. She’s dumbfounded, then she notices the fiber
optic lines in his ears and YANKS them out.

NATIE
You nit! I thought you were dead!
 
REECE
Sorry, Natie! I missed the docking
window for the fleet bay and had to
gain access through an air lock...

NATIE
With that noise...

She gestures toward his still spinning CD -

NATIE
I couldn’t perceive you... your
cortical... Never mind. Thank
Vishnu you’re alive!

She hobbles to him for a serious hug and groans. He notices
the arrows broken off in her shoulder and at her waist.

REECE
Hey, you’ve been shot with - what
are those things?

She shakes her head and shuts him up with a kiss.

INT. #1 MOTHER SHIP (ODIN), MEDICAL CLINIC - SAME

Deck’s wounds are tended by an ANDROID COMBAT MEDIC when
Walter’s holo image appears.

WALTER
Congratulations, Major! It seems
our campaign was a success.

Deck looks toward Walter’s image with a sneer.

DECK
I’ll accept your thanks in person,
Walt. When I punch you in the
mouth for your botched battle plan,
you son of a bitch!

Walter steps back reflexively, foolishly -

WALTER
What are you talking about, Major?

DECK
I’m sure you’ve gotten the debrief
string. The Cat Ones nearly spent
the whole campaign watching, like I
warned you!
 
WALTER
Ultimately they performed well...

DECK
I’m sure we’ll debrief on it ad
nauseam. Right now, I’d just like
you to blink out like a bad dream
and let me get a hot shower.

WALTER
Of course, Major.

Walter nods as Deck as he walks away. Walter’s holo-image
dissolves with a worried look.

CUT TO:

EXT. WEDDING PAVILION ON TYCUS - DAY

A small CROWD is gathered on a beautiful day to witness the
silent exchange of vows between Reece and Natie in finest,
30th century Tux and Gown.

A STRING QUARTET quietly plays.

In the gathering is: Meredith, Deck, Rebecca, Reece’s
baseball buddy - Ball Player as Best Man, Ren, Ryker, Walter
and other essential VIPs. Deck and Rebecca sit together.

Walter sits far away from Deck.

An Ice Sculpture of Thor adorns a table covered with a lavish
spread. Deck looks over his shoulder at the Ice Sculpture.
It reminds him of his time frozen in cryogenesis and gives
him a chill before he turns back to the bride and groom.

Natie and Reece exchange vows in silence. They exchange
choreographed gestures of the 30th century ceremony: they
touch their rings to own ‘heart’ and ‘mind’ and then to the
same on their mates, then slip them on each others’ fingers.

Deck and Rebecca hold hands through the young couple’s
ritual. He looks at her, ‘reads her’, and whispers -

DECK
No, no. Your work’s at Vincennes
and I like blue skies. I’ve
already lived on Mars for
centuries. I’m ready for a warmer
climate, you know?

They are ‘shushed’ by Meredith and others with hands against
their mouths - palms out. They quiet down.

Natie and Reece share their first kiss as man and wife -
 
The crowd stands and “applauds” by taping their finger tips
together in silence. Rebecca and Deck follow suit, but Deck
smirks; glances at Reece’s Ball Player friend, nods and -

A WAR CRY and CHEERS issues from the Ball Player friend of
Reece’s as others join in the rebel cry, most young veterans.

DECK
Now, that’s more like it!

Rebecca smiles at Deck. They kiss as Natie and Reece join in
the hoots and cheers of celebration.

FADE OUT:

THE END