Defiant

Episode 105
“Echoes of Past Transgressions”
Written By Adam Holmberg

TEASER

FADE IN

EXT. DEFIANT DSV – AERIAL VIEW

The submarine bobs on the surface of the water. In the far distance we
can just make out a couple tall buildings in downtown Oahu.

SUPERIMPOSE: Defiant DSV, Stationary Outside Pearl Harbor

NEW LINE: April 7, 2052

INT. WILMETTE’S OFFICE – DEFIANT DSV

Pan over the painting of the Maryland near the viewer on the wall
opposite the desk, over Wilmette’s couch and coffee table piled with
books, over the visitor’s chairs, to the tip of Wilmette’s pen
scribbling his signature on a report. Off screen, a knocking becomes
audible.

PULL BACK

To reveal Wilmette, a miniscule hint of tension evident under his usual

calm demeanor. He sets the report on a fairly tall pile and opens
another.

WILMETTE
Come in.

Peck enters through the office door, gently closing it behind him.
Hands in his pockets, he approaches Wilmette hands in his pockets.
Without a word he plunks down in one of the visitor’s chairs.

WILMETTE
(not looking up, not a question)
They’ve arrived.

PECK
Yes sir.

WILMETTE
(capping the pen and setting it down)
Then I should go to the Bridge.

PECK
(before Wilmette can get up, cautiously)
Sir, may I ask a question?

WILMETTE
(a slight smile)
Why am I tense?
(Peck nods)
I wondered that myself, so I called George, and he picked it out in a
second.
(a beat)
Engler.

PECK
Were you friends?

WILMETTE
(leaning back in his chair, thoughtful)
Not really; he and I had a respect though.
(a beat)
While it is true that Walther Engler is one of the best we’ve had, he’s
still a human being. He’s hard, unforgiving, and he’s ambitious. The
truth is, he’d like to be an admiral, but he’s too abrasive. He’s a
great captain for all those reasons, but he won’t kiss ass, and in the
Atlantic – where he’s spent most of his time the past three years –
that doesn’t help you.

PECK
He resents you?

WILMETTE
That’s the problem - I don’t know. I don’t see why he would, but
Walther has always been good at seeing what he wants to, and if it
means that I shouldn’t be in that captain’s chair because he’s not an
admiral. . .

PECK
(disbelief)
That’s what he thinks?

WILMETTE
George said he’s heard that through the grapevine. Now, he could be
wrong – a lot of people on the Atlantic side don’t very well like
George Easton. . .

PECK
That’s ridiculous!

WILMETTE
(a slight grin)
I didn’t say it made sense. A lot of things don’t when you’re behind
this desk.
(a beat, rubbing the bridge of his nose)
It’s probably foolish worrying about rumors.
(a sigh as he rises)
Anyway, we should get to the Bridge.

Wilmette moves for the door when Peck rises and takes a step toward him.

PECK
Sir?

WILMETTE
(pausing midway between, turning toward him)
Yes John?

PECK
Sir, when I was on the Agamemnon, I lost my captain and my ship.
Captain Anders was killed by pirates working for the Carolinians - they
boarded the Ag and started shooting, and he was one of the first
casualties. Then, a few months later the Carolinians sent that boat to
the bottom of the ocean. It hurt.

WILMETTE
(nods empathetically)
I’m sorry.

PECK
(a grateful nod as he continues)
After that I bounced around from base-to-base while they figured out
what to do with me. Captain Matthews didn’t need me – seaQuest already
had an XO, and I would have been a controversial choice anyhow – and
they didn’t have a ship low profile enough to let me command, so
I . . .well, I considered quitting. Hitchcock put me on some
tactical committee, but I wasn’t a desk jockey. I actually was going to
stop by Pearl and start the discharge process when they called me. They
were giving Wilmette the Defiant. He needed an XO, and all their
choices turned it down. Would I?

Wilmette smiles at this, and Peck returns the smile.

PECK
(con’t)
So, I said “yes.” Didn’t even think about it – just said the word. I
think a Captain Bergeron called me, and he seemed a bit surprised and a
bit relieved.

WILMETTE
I’m sure he was – they did get the ship ready in a rush, and I was
pretty adamant about finishing my time aboard seaShark before coming
here. They needed someone to oversee things – sure weren’t going to let
me do it.

PECK
I have to admit that I was excited to be aboard – the Defiant is a high
profile boat – but I wasn’t sure about you. I didn’t know what you’d be
like – a lot of people do call you things like “criminal” and
“murderer.” But, I also knew that if you didn’t last – if you did go
nuts or something – that I’d be the next in line for command. It would
take some cajoling with the boys in Command, but I could at least have
a shot.

WILMETTE
(regarding him)
And do you still feel this way?

PECK
That’s the strange part. I’m ambitious as hell, but when you came
aboard and I got to know you – we aren’t friends, sir, and I’m not sure
if that’s good or bad, but I respect you a lot, and for the first time
in my life I’m content to wait for that captain’s pin.

The air hangs silent for a moment, then Wilmette moves for the door
handle as he turns back to Peck.

WILMETTE
(a reflective smile)
Thanks John.
PECK
(grinning broadly)
Anytime sir.

Wilmette pushes the door open as we

CUT TO

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

Everyone is at their proper posts, Alridge at her station despite

having command. Wilmette and Peck stride onto the Bridge and Peck takes
his seat, nodding at Alridge, as Wilmette walks to the front of the
Command Plex.

On the main viewer is an image of a small fleet of five submarines

riding on the surface, the lead ship a sleek and deadly Aquatica – the
Virginia. Wilmette absorbs it in silence, then turns toward Peck and
Alridge.

WILMETTE
Status of fleet?

ALRIDGE
They’re all there sir. An Aquatica, a Havasu, and three relief
freighters.

PECK
I still don’t see why we need the extra escort. The Ragnaroks pretty
much decimated the colony – they’re down to one dome and a third of
their original population. Why would the PMR even want to bother it?

WILMETTE
They probably wouldn’t, but I’ve learned to not underestimate them.
Maranna is a symbol – one of the oldest colonies in the Pacific, we
liberated it three times from the Macs. It’s one of our most heavily
defended colonies – hitting it was a message that no one is safe.

RUSCH
Pretty repetitive message.

WILMETTE
For us, yes, but some of the politicians still think this will all blow
over in a couple months. They’re a long way from the battlefield, safe
in their cozy little Senate chamber in Portland.

A light beeping becomes audible in the background at Martin’s station,

and Wilmette turns toward her as she listens to the message. After a
few seconds she looks at him.

MARTIN
Captain Engler of the Virginia is on the line for you.

Wilmette, who has been fairly relaxed up to this point, visibly tenses
– just slightly - as he turns to the viewer. He straightens his
uniforms and sighs, and we see him quickly regain his composure.
Finally, he looks up at the screen.
WILMETTE
(under his breath)
Here goes nothing.
(louder)
Ms. Martin, put him on the screen.

END TEASER

FADE TO OPENING CREDITS

ACT ONE

FADE IN

INT. DEFIANT DSV – BRIDGE

Wilmette stands before the viewer as the screen shifts and Captain
Walther Engler appears.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

Engler is in his early to mid fifties with a hint of gray in his black
hair and intense eyes. Not a man to mess with.

ENGLER
(flat, declarative, with just a hint of contempt)
James.

WILMETTE
(his voice level)
Walther. How have you been?

ENGLER
The years have been kind to me. My ship was pulled out of mothballs,
and they gave that damned Havasu to some young upstart. It seems that
they’ll give a ship to anybody nowadays.

The double meaning isn’t lost on Wilmette, but he doesn’t show any
emotion as he lets the air hang dead for a moment.

WILMETTE
Time is of the essence in this mission, so I think we should meet on
Defiant en route. I’ve been put in command of the relief fleet, but
three of the ships are civilian vessels, and I’d rather them not get
any notions that the U.E.O. is heavy handed, so I’d like you to extend
an invitation. . .

ENGLER
Before you start dictating orders to me, let’s make one thing clear. I
don’t think you should be in that uniform, and I’ll be as civil as I
need to be, but don’t expect me to like it.

WILMETTE
(challenging)
And what does that mean?

ENGLER
It means whatever you want it to mean.
Peck looks ready to explode – he swallows hard, turning red, knuckles
white where his hand grips his console – while Alridge watches the
exchange with interest.

WILMETTE
(pure disgust)
Walther, what happened to you? You were one of the best, and while we
were never friends, I would expect. . .

ENGLER
Expect me to what? Treat you like a colleague?
(almost a laugh)
Hitchcock may have given you your chair back, but that doesn’t mean
anybody else has any faith in you.

Wilmette turns away, swallowing hard, fists clenched. Behind him,

Engler looks satisfied – he thinks he pushed the right buttons.
However, his grin is cut off when Wilmette whirls around on a heal, his
face hard.

WILMETTE
(voice intensely quiet and level)
Whether or not you have faith in me, I am in command on this one. You
can work with me, or I’ll knock you out of my way so hard you won’t
know what hit you until you’re before the U.E.O. Pacific Fleet Command
Board Of Review.
(deadly)
And you know that I would do that.

Engler’s jaw about drops, and he is speechless for a moment, but he

quickly regains his composure, looking almost annoyed.

ENGLER
(almost bitter)
Why didn’t you wash out? She’s dead James – what do you think she’d say
if she were here?

WILMETTE
(low and intense)
She wouldn’t let me.
(before Engler can say anything)
As I was saying, I’d appreciate if you’d contact the civilian ships in
the fleet to set up a meeting. It’s 0816 now, so let’s make it here at
0830 – we’ll set out right after that.

ENGLER
(with a bit of venom)
That will be acceptable.

WILMETTE
(not budging)
I didn’t ask. Defiant out.

The channel goes dead, and Wilmette, hands on hips, exhales angrily.
As their captain steps toward the viewer, most of the Bridge crew watch
him with fascination and tension. Finally, regaining most of his
composure, Wilmette turns toward Peck.

WILMETTE
(a very level voice)
Mr. Peck, when the fleet forms up on us, make for Maranna Colony full
speed and call me.

PECK
(anticipating)
You’ll be in your office.

WILMETTE
(a nod as he strides toward the back of the Bridge)
Piper - my office.

Wilmette exits the Bridge and Piper quickly rises to follow. As he

steps down from the upper row of stations, Peck, who is on his way to
the center seat, grabs Piper’s arm.

PECK
(low and sincere)
If you need me, get me. Consider that an order. I’d walk into hell for
that man.

PIPER
(meeting his eyes)
So would I.

Peck nods and Piper moves away from him as Peck takes the center seat.

PECK
Ms. Martin, signal the fleet to form up on our stern. Mr. Wong, once
they have, assume a standard escort position and keep it.

After the “aye sirs” have sounded, Alridge turns toward Peck and speaks
in a low voice.

ALRIDGE
You did realize what happened, didn’t you?

PECK
(a grim nod)
Engler tried to undermine the captain – one of the worst types of
problems that can happen in an escort situation.

ALRIDGE
This might be an interesting cruise.

Peck doesn’t respond, but his tension now matches Wilmette’s.

INT. DEFIANT DSV – WILMETTE’S OFFICE

The door bursts open, and Wilmette enters seething. He turns toward the
door, expecting to see Piper behind, but when the engineer doesn’t
appear, Wilmette strides over to the desk and kicks a visitor’s chair,
sending it flying against a wall. When Piper enters, he sees Wilmette
about to lunge at his coffee table, and he rushes to grab his captain
and hold him back.

PIPER
Whoa, James! Don’t.
WILMETTE
(whipping around and out of Piper’s grip)
That bastard!! He’s trying to undermine me!! Lives are at stake, and
he’s sabotaging me!!

PIPER
He doesn’t know you man. He doesn’t know you. Don’t let it get to you –
he’s trying to push your buttons so you’ll slip up and he can call
whatever Senator owes him a favor.

WILMETTE
He never used to be like that! He’s been at this longer than I have –
he should know better. He’s a professional.

PIPER
Was a professional. Now he’s a bitter man who’s been at his position
for too long while you’re the best captain currently in the U.E.O.
(Wilmette’s eyes snap to meet Piper’s, and the engineer smiles)
Well, I might be biased. The best captain in the U.E.O. is also my
friend, after all.

Wilmette is silent for a moment, then he bursts out in laughter.

WILMETTE
Sorry Barry. . .

PIPER
(holding up his hand)
You needed to cut loose – no explanation needed.

WILMETTE
He made me mad – I hate to see a good man do that.

PIPER
So do I, but it happens. Just be glad you’re the one in command and not
him. Just be yourself, and we’ll get through this.

WILMETTE
(a beat, then Wilmette lays a hand on Piper’s shoulder)
Thanks Barry.

PIPER
(a grin)
Anytime James – you know that.

WILMETTE
(returning the grin, relaxed)
Yes, I do.

The two men move for the door and we

DISSOLVE TO

INT. DEFIANT DSV – MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM

A meeting is in progress; Wilmette is at his usual seat at the head of

the table, Peck at his right. Next to Peck is Engler, not looking too
pleased, and next to Engler is Captain Daria Michaels – early thirties,
dark hair, and pretty.
Across the table is Captain Robert Dupree - in his mid-forties,
slightly out of shape, with salty hair and a matching beard, Jonas
Queen - a tall black man in his mid-twenties, and Heath Gressom – in
his sixties and slightly fat.

Besides the Defiant people and Engler and Michaels wear U.E.O. uniforms
– the rest are in civvies.

WILMETTE
So, to wrap things up and review, when we arrive the Abenaki and the
Virginia will take point while the Rhineland, the Houston, and the San
Quintin move in to evacuate the survivors.
(facing Queen and Gressom)
Defiant will cover you. It should be in-and-out and we don’t expect the
PMR to make any trouble, but we want to be prepared.

GRESSOM
I was on a few of these runs before Captain – I know the drill pretty
well.

QUEEN
This is actually my first, but I think I get it.
(a slight smile forming)
Just so long as you navy boys keep those Macs off my ass, we’ll do just
fine.

ENGLER
(a trace of disgust)
We will Mr. Queen, as long as you follow procedure.

Queen looks taken aback, and everyone else is a bit shocked. Wilmette
jumps in before anyone can say anything.

WILMETTE
(a trace of menace)
I think we’re all professionals here Captain Engler.

ENGLER
(pointed)
Most of us at least.

Peck turns a bit red, Michaels looks slightly disgusted, and Dupree’s
eyes are on the table in front of him. After the silence hangs, Gressom
jumps in to everyone’s surprise.

GRESSOM
Captain Wilmette probably doesn’t remember, but I was involved with him
on a similar mission during the Mac War. It was Polk Colony that had
been hit, and it was in a lot worse shape than the one we’re on the way
to. There were eight of us – four civilian transports, the Maryland,
and a couple other U.E.O. ships.

Wilmette perks up, remembering, and Peck does too. Engler rolls his
eyes, disgusted.

PECK
I remember reading about that at the Academy – you got ambushed on the
way out, and a couple of the transports got separated from the main
fleet.

WILMETTE
(nodding)
The August and the Trinity. Maryland was at the head of the pack, and
we got the August’s mayday – a couple Pegasuses had cut off the ships
for the main fleet, and they were taking fire.

GRESSOM
(almost proudly)
I was the one who sent that distress call.
(as he speaks, Gressom’s gaze meets each of them – this story means
something to him)
I was second-in-command of the August, under my friend Todd Stewart. We
all thought we were dead – our hull was cut to hell within thirty
seconds of fire – but here comes the Maryland, riding in hard from the
front of the pack. Captain Wilmette didn’t mince words – he just opened
fire and he saved us. It was an ambush, and his fleet was tied up, so
he did the job himself.
(Wilmette grins with the memory, despite himself)
He put his ship between us and those Macs. He saved us.

WILMETTE
Just doing my job.

GRESSOM
And doing it damn well.
(turning toward Engler)
I know you U.E.O. fellas consider Captain Wilmette an embarrassment,
and maybe if I were in your position I wouldn’t blame you, but the fact
of the matter is, I’ve seen him in action, and no matter what mistakes
he’s made. . .he’ll get the job done and keep us safe.

ENGLER
(interrupting)
Thank you Mr. . .

GRESSOM
(not giving an inch)
And I would hope that you would support him like the professional you
claim to be.

Engler turns red, and Peck hardly can stifle a laugh. The room goes
dead silent until Wilmette finally closes the folder in front of him.

WILMETTE
(reflective)
If that’s it for now. . .
(no one interjects)
That will be all. Mr. Peck will escort you all to the docking bays, and
from there you can return to your ships and we can get underway.
(rising from his seat)
It was good meeting all of you.

PECK
I second that – it’s always nice to see some of the folks we work for.

GRESSOM
(extending his hand toward Wilmette)
An honor to meet you sir.

WILMETTE
(shaking Gressom’s hand, smiling warmly)
And you too sir.

Everyone follows Wilmette and Gressom’s example and rises to shake

hands, and we

DISSOLVE TO

EXT. CONVOY

Defiant leads the pack as it cuts through the murky depths, Virginia
right behind. The two civilian vessels are flanked by the Abenaki, the
Havasu in the pack.

INT. RECREATION ROOM – DEFIANT DSV

For a room on a submarine, it’s pretty big. We pan over the tables
around the self-serve wet bar on our right, over the small stage in
back, to the couches on our left. On one of the sofas nearest us sits
Rusch and a pretty brunette about her age, Lt. Gina Turner, both in
uniform.

TURNER
This is really nice – getting a little break before we go into battle.
Is Wilmette always this nice?

RUSCH
Since I’ve been aboard he has been. He’s. . .interesting. He’s tough,
and he expects only the best, but he gives the same, and he shows
compassion in ways that I’ve never seen in another captain.

TURNER
Captain Bell certainly wasn’t like that. Of course, it’s not like we
frequently went into combat.
(a beat)
When they told me about the transfer, I wasn’t sure. I mean. . .I might
be a Weapons officer, but I didn’t sign up to be the Assistant Weapons
Chief on the U.E.O.’s first warship.
(spotting someone, surprise)
Hey! Is that him?

TURNER’S POV – LANDERS

The Chief of Security stands at the bar with Piper, both of them
holding drinks and talking.

RUSCH
(OS)
Who? Mike Landers?

TURNER
Yeah! Do you know him?

BACK TO RUSCH AND TURNER

RUSCH
Well, he’s the Chief of Security – do you know him?

TURNER
Oh yeah! I slept with him!
(Rusch’s mouth almost drops)
Oh, it was nothing – only one night. He did that a lot. We used to say.
. .aw, what was that?
(a beat – Rusch has not recovered in the least bit)
“With Mike all you land is a one night stand.” Yeah, that was it.

RUSCH
(shellshocked and a bit disgusted)
Did he do this often?

TURNER
Oh yeah – all the time. He had big commitment problems, and we usually
were lucky to get him for one date. In fact, he ran out on his fiancé.

RUSCH
(turning a bit red)
What?

TURNER
Yeah. Her name was Amy Holden. I was actually two years behind him, so
I didn’t know her, but she was bright and very pretty. He apparently
got counseling for his problem, and he was back on track, but he
ditched her at the altar – we thought he’d signed up. His family moved
out of the area real quick after that fiasco.

RUSCH
(quite angry now)
I would well imagine so. Her family must have been out of their minds.

TURNER
I’m sure they were – she was pregnant.

RUSCH
(crimson)
Pregnant?

TURNER
(not seeming to notice the effect she has on Rusch as she watches
Landers)
Mmhm. She had an abortion – even if she’d wanted it, she would have had
no way to take care of it. Her family wasn’t poor, but she was the
third kid out of six. They just couldn’t support her, and she didn’t
have a job. Hell, she didn’t have college. . .

RUSCH
(under her breath, with venom)
He just ditched her. The bastard just ditched her.

For the first time Turner seems to notice Rusch’s anger, and she seems
confused by it. Rusch rises from her seat, straightening her uniform.

TURNER
Why are you angry?

RUSCH
(her gaze fixed on Landers)
Ask me when I’m not busy.

And she begins to stride toward the bar. However, halfway there the
intercom clicks on and a klaxon sounds.

MARTIN
(filtered)
Battlestations!! All hands man your Battlestations!!

Everyone in the Rec Room suddenly jumps out of their seats and begins
rushing to their Battlestations. . .except Rusch, who stands watching
Landers rush out with Piper, her fists clenched. After a few seconds
Turner appears behind her.

TURNER
(laying a hand on her shoulder)
Come on – we’re on alert!

RUSCH
(under her breath)
Saved this time.

She turns and jogs for the door, Turner right behind.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

The clamshell doors slide open to admit Rusch who takes her usual
console. Wong and Peck are right behind, and as Wong makes his way to
the Helm Pod, Peck slides into his seat.

PECK
We’ve got company?

WILMETTE
A couple Valhallas and a Ragnarok, dead ahead. They’re on an intercept
course, ETA. . .

ALRIDGE
Six minutes.

RUSCH
What’s the plan?

WILMETTE
The fleet will fall back, covered by the Virginia, while the Abenaki
follows us to intercept the enemy vessels.

RUSCH
Plan?

WILMETTE
Lay down an offense fire as we approach with the pulse lasers, and use
the stream layers to cut apart the Ragnarok while picking at whatever
Valhalla is closest.

PECK
That way we let Virginia do its thing and provide cover for both of us.
WILMETTE
The Aquaticas have been getting a Hammerhead package of their own, but
it’s not nearly as effective as ours.

PIPER
(with a smile)
Still, I imagine those Aquaticas have a few tricks up their sleeves.

WILMETTE
(a wry smile)
Yes, they do.

Everyone is silent for a moment as a couple consoles beep.

ALRIDGE
Enemy fleet four minutes away. We’re at the canyon.

MARTIN
(OS)
Abenaki signals ready.

WILMETTE
(to Peck, eyes never leaving his screen)
There’s a shallow canyon here the fleet can hide in. They. . .

ALRIDGE
Sir, Virginia is breaking away from the convoy!!

WILMETTE
What?

At Sensors, Bauer checks her readings.

BAUER
Confirmed sir.

WILMETTE
Martin, get me. . .

MARTIN
Hailing them, sir.
(a beat)
No response.

WILMETTE
(enraged)
Damnit to hell! Ms. Alridge, ETA to enemy fleet.

ALRIDGE
They’ve accelerated – ETA two minutes ten seconds.

PECK
What do we do?

WILMETTE
Ms. Martin, try them again.

MARTIN
(a beat)
Still no response.

Wilmette rises from his seat, watching the scene on the main viewer,
his face a mix of confused anger and thought.

EXT. CONVOY

The fleet of U.E.O. vessels and allies has stopped next to a fairly
shallow canyon. In the distance we can see the glow of Virginia’s
engines as she speeds away.

END ACT ONE

ACT TWO

FADE IN

EXT. CONVOY

Virginia speeds away from us as before.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette stands in front of the Command Plex, hands on hips, watching

the Virginia sail away. After a few seconds he abruptly about-faces and
returns to his seat.

WILMETTE
Ms. Martin, get the Abenaki on the horn and tell them to stay put and
watch the fleet – we’ll take care of this.

MARTIN
(OS)
Aye sir.

WILMETTE
Mr. Wong, full ahead. We’re faster than Virginia – if she’s going to
ignore us, that’s fine, but I want to be right next to her when she
meets those PMR ships.

WONG
(OS)
Aye sir.

PECK
You know what he’s doing?

WILMETTE
I believe we’re being bated – he wants to see if I have enough balls to
follow him into battle or if I’ll hang back and try to stop him. He’s
about to get a big surprise.

PECK
Does he think you’d let him go in alone?

WILMETTE
I think more than anything he wants to screw up the mission and blame
it on me. Too bad I won’t let him.
(to Alridge)
Range?

ALRIDGE
Thirteen hundred klicks, ETA forty-two seconds. Enemy vessels’ ETA, one
minute.

WILMETTE
Arm all weapons.

RUSCH
Weapons hot.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The doors on the torpedo tubes slide open while the laser nodes, both
the red pulse lasers and blue stream lasers, begin to glow as the
warship rapidly slides toward the Virginia and the enemy ships beyond.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette studies his display intently as Alridge checks her readings.

After a few seconds he looks up and his gaze meets Peck’s, and he gives
his worried first officer a reassuring smile.

PECK
I just hope Engler knows what he’s doing.

WILMETTE
That’s one thing I can count on – he’s stupid, but he isn’t stupid.
(Peck furrows his brow)
Engler is as good as they say he is when he has a cool head, and he
isn’t going to risk his crew and ship just to piss me off, no matter
what he thinks of me.

Peck nods as Alridge speaks.

ALRIDGE
ETA with PMR ships fifteen seconds. We’re in firing range.
(a beat)
Enemy weapons hot. They’re firing.

WILMETTE
(steely)
Evasive.

EXT. PMR FLEET

The Ragnarok opens up on Defiant with its forward lasers, the two
Valhallas turning their attention on the Virginia. The Ragnarok’s
lasers meet Defiant, tearing into the bioskin, while shots from one of
the Valhallas chews into Virginia’s bow. Hold for a few seconds, then

CUT TO

INT. WILMETTE’S OFFICE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette stands in front of his desk, pissed off. Engler is on the

communications screen, apparently unfazed.
WILMETTE
I’d love to know what the hell you were thinking if I was even remotely
concerned why you were ignoring orders!

ENGLER
We were just tending to business. . .

WILMETTE
Without orders!
(running his hand through his hair, calming himself a bit)
Look Walther, I know this stunt was just an extension of this pissing
contest you seem to insist we get into, but. . .

ENGLER
(angry)
You don’t get it, do you? You’re a disgrace James – a disgrace to that
uniform and that chair. Defiant should have gone to someone who didn’t
get his crew killed. . .

WILMETTE
(with a smile, understanding setting in)
Someone like you?

Engler goes silent – Wilmette caught him. Quickly he changes tactics.

ENGLER
Perhaps, perhaps not. I can handle this mission – Virginia is just as
strong as when Maryland was still above water.

WILMETTE
Of that I have no doubt.
(sighing)
Walther, I’ve figured out that I can yell at you ‘til I’m blue in the
face and it won’t do a damned bit of good, so I’m just going to ask you
to promise me that you won’t get anyone killed. We’re on the same team
here.

ENGLER
I can promise you that I won’t put anyone at risk, but I’m afraid we’re
far from the same team.
(before Wilmette can speak)
Engler out.

The Virginia’s seal appears and the screen goes dead. Wilmette runs his
hand through his hair, sighs again, and moves for the door.

WILMETTE
(to himself)
Time to get back on course.

INT. MESS HALL – DEFIANT DSV

The place is packed by the noisy lunch crowd. We move in on a table

occupied by Peck, Rusch, and Alridge on one side and Landers and Piper
on the other. They are in conversation as they eat, and as they speak
we notice Rusch avoids looking at Landers.

PECK
I don’t like it one bit. I don’t care what kind of beef you have with
the CO – if he’s the guy in charge, you follow his lead. Period.

PIPER
I agree – sure there are extreme cases when the guy might be a total
nut job, but those are the exception. Maybe I’m biased – God knows my
objectivity is crap when it comes to my friends – but James is far from
incompetent.

LANDERS
Hey, I don’t particularly like the guy, but I agree. He knows what he’s
doing.
(a beat)
Sometimes I think he’s a little too. . .extreme when it comes to
dealing with the PMR, but that’s bias, and everybody – I don’t care who
you are – has bias.

Alridge’s gaze hits the table as Rusch meets her eyes, and Peck and
Piper notice the air getting a bit thick.

PECK
Anyway, I’m sure the Captain will deal with Engler in his own way.

PIPER
Yeah, or mop the floor with him. James isn’t known for suffering fools
gladly.

WILMETTE
(OS)
Not unless I have to.

Wilmette appears on Piper’s left, tray in hands.

WILMETTE
This seat taken?

Piper, Rusch, and Peck grin, Alridge rolls her eyes, and Landers keeps
quiet.

PIPER
It is now.
(Wilmette takes the seat)
This is a surprise.

PECK
The last time you decided to eat with us was back in November.

RUSCH
There was that time in February too. You can’t forget that.

PIPER
Oh yeah! We got attacked by those pirates, and you. . .
(chuckling)
You carried your coffee to the Bridge, and the only time they actually
hit us. . .

WILMETTE
(cutting him off with a wry grin)
My uniform and I remember that very well Barry, thank you.
All of them, save Alridge, get a good laugh out of that one. As
Wilmette digs in, he leans over to face Landers.

WILMETTE
You seem to be enjoying this Mr. Landers.

PIPER
(to Landers)
Yeah. About time you didn’t act like you have a bug up your ass.

Landers grins and bears it, though he looks a bit self-conscious.

LANDERS
Yes sir, I am. I may not particularly like you, but I shouldn’t let
that ruin my lunch.

Everyone looks a bit uncomfortable, but Wilmette nods, accepting.

WILMETTE
Good answer – tactful and true. I expect nothing less from my crew.
(a beat)
That extends to everyone. I know Captain Engler is an easy target, and
don’t think I don’t agree – he needs to be checked, and I don’t have a
wide enough berth to do that – and I appreciate the support, but
hurling insults is just resorting to his level.

PECK
We’re sorry if we stepped out of line, sir.

WILMETTE
You didn’t John, and I doubt you would have, but I’m sure my crew has
better things to do than worry about a minor annoyance. Agree,
disagree, whatever – that’s fine, but we’re here for something more
important than Engler, and we should focus our energies on that. I’m
not mad, and I’m not yelling at you. I’m stating a fact.

Alridge drains the last of her Coke and rises with her tray to leave.

ALRIDGE
(under her breath)
I’ve had enough facts for now.

Wilmette’s voice stops her dead.

WILMETTE
I hope I didn’t ruin your lunch Ms. Alridge.

Alridge turns to face Wilmette, her fiery eyes meeting Wilmette’s brave
gaze.

ALRIDGE
Not at all. I just have a bad aftertaste.

WILMETTE
(voice slightly shaking with a hint of pain and a hint of anger)
Well then, maybe you should get another Coke and wash it down.

Alridge turns red.

ALRIDGE
At least I’m not standing around and taking shots from Engler.

WILMETTE
How I deal with another Captain is my own business.

ALRIDGE
It is until he gets someone killed.

She abruptly about-faces, striding off. Rusch turns after her, almost
moving to get up.

RUSCH
(angry)
Damnit Laurie!

However, before she can move to pursue, Wilmette lays a gentle hand on
Rusch’s arm.

WILMETTE
Let her go – she has to find her own path.

PIPER
Why do you put up with that?

We see just a hint of real fright on Wilmette’s face. He sighs deeply,

shaking his head.

WILMETTE
I don’t know Barry. Maybe I feel that I have to – that I owe her that.
Maybe I just don’t know how to tell her not to. I don’t know, and right
now I’m not going to deal with it.

PECK
Maybe you should. . .

WILMETTE
(snapping)
I said I won’t deal with it!

The table goes silent, and everyone present, including Wilmette, looks
shocked. The captain shakes his head slowly, as if saying “I can’t
believe I did that.” After a few moments, Wilmette finally speaks.

WILMETTE
(quietly)
I’m sorry everyone. I’m sorry. . .

PECK
No apology needed sir.

Wilmette turns to Piper and the engineer lays a gentle hand on

Wilmette’s arm and shakes his head. Wilmette nods, grateful, and Rusch
thoughtfully leans forward.

RUSCH
Sir? If I may ask, what’s happened to you?

WILMETTE
(with a smile)
Am I being more tyrannical than usual lately?

Grins all around. Rusch shakes her head.

RUSCH
No sir – I mean, you seem more. . .free. At peace. I mean. . .

PECK
I think what Carrie means, sir, is that you seem more relaxed – more at
ease. Sure you’re still going gung ho for the PMR, but you’re more at
ease now.

WILMETTE
(nodding in understanding)
I’m more at peace now. I’ve settled back into the captain’s chair, and
I’m comfortable with my crew, and I think, for the most part, they’re
comfortable with me. Sure we’ve had our problems – our rotten apples –
but we’ve weeded them out.
(a beat)
And I’ve realized some things. I’m sure you understand if I don’t go
into them, but I’m. . .well, I’m doing better than I was six months
ago. I’m glad it’s been good for you.

RUSCH
It’s been good for you, sir, and we’re happy about that. I have a great
deal of respect for you – I think most of us do.

PECK
(raising his glass)
Here here.

Peck, Rusch, and Piper raise their glasses in a toast, and Wilmette
nods in thanks, then looks at Landers and nods again.

WILMETTE
(to Landers)
Fair enough.
(to everyone else)
Thank you all – that means a lot to me. I hope you all know that, and I
hope you know that I feel the same way about all of you.
(a beat as he prepares to rise)
And now I should go – I have some work to get done before we reach the
colony.

Wilmette rises and moves for the door, and his command crew continues
their conversation.

INT. ALRIDGE’s CABIN – DEFIANT DSV

Alridge stands in front of her closet rifling through her uniform

shirts. After a few seconds there is a light knock on the door.

ALRIDGE
It’s open!

Rusch quietly opens the door and enters, standing wordlessly behind
Alridge who plucks a shirt with a large stain on it from the rack.
After a few seconds she realizes her visitor hasn’t spoken, and she
turns and smiles at Rusch. The smile isn’t returned.

ALRIDGE
Hi there. What’s going on?

RUSCH
Captain Wilmette.

Alridge darkens, dropping the uniform on the bed.

ALRIDGE
Don’t even start.

RUSCH
It’s not right!

ALRIDGE
(raising her voice)
You think I care what’s right? My sister is dead – is that right? Is it?

RUSCH
I’ve let you pull this crap for seven months now, but it’s got to stop.

ALRIDGE
What’s your problem with Landers?

Rusch’s face now darkens, and she becomes visibly more animated.

RUSCH
That’s none of your business.

ALRIDGE
You see – you’re mad at him and you won’t tell me why.

RUSCH
He did something. . .
(a beat)
To someone. I heard about it from Gina.

ALRIDGE
Your new assistant?
(Rusch nods)
And what did he do?

RUSCH
I’m not going to tell you.

ALRIDGE
Why?

RUSCH
You wouldn’t listen to me when I wanted to talk to you about John.

ALRIDGE
That was three weeks ago!! I said I was sorry.

RUSCH
That isn’t good enough. You want to tell me Captain Wilmette is guilty,
that’s fine. But he isn’t anymore guilty than you are.
And with this Rusch storms out, leaving Alridge with a very puzzled
expression on her face.

ALRIDGE
What the hell was that about?

CUT TO

INT. WILMETTE’S OFFICE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette is seated behind his desk signing reports and talking to

Admiral Easton who is on the screen.

WILMETTE
It’s just a pain in the ass really – nothing to worry about too much.

EASTON
Are you sure James?

WILMETTE
(fixing him with a look)
Would I say so if I wasn’t?

EASTON
Usually not, but you might be trying to handle this one for personal
reasons.
(a beat)
You have a bad habit of taking this crap personally. You don’t have
many weaknesses, but one is that you’re as damned good as everyone
thinks you are and you think you need to prove it to the whole damn
world. You don’t – if Engler’s out of control, tell me so I can
intervene.

WILMETTE
He’s not out of control George. He’s frustrating the hell out of me
because he’s acting so damned unprofessional – pigheaded, stubborn, and
not afraid to tell me to go to hell.

EASTON
Same old Walther Engler.

WILMETTE
In a way, except when he told me to go to hell before I was just a
freshman captain and we were talking in private about strategy. All of
them – Engler, Hudson, Carmichael, Stevens – had trouble with me until
they figured out that I knew what I was doing. But this is personal.

EASTON
Maybe it’s because you’ve come so far and left him in the dust. He’s
good James, but he was always too greedy for his own good. He wanted
power – the fact that he was saving the world always came second.
(a beat)
Bottom line – if he does anything too stupid, call me and I’ll take
care of it. Until then, watch your back – make sure he doesn’t stick a
knife in it.

WILMETTE
I will George – I’ve already considered that.
(a beat)
How do things look around there?

EASTON
The Pacific is quiet today – a couple sightings and reports here and
there, but no attacks. seaQuest is running some errand for Hitchcock –
I think they’re impressing a bunch of Senators or something, showing
them how well we’re defending the Pacific. It was going to be your job,
but I talked Hitchcock out of it.

WILMETTE
(a smile)
Thanks George.

EASTON
(returning the grin)
Anytime James. Anytime.

END ACT TWO

ACT THREE

FADE IN

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The submarine moves across our vision toward the shattered remains of
Maranna Colony – a large five domed complex along the bottom of the
ocean. The fleet is right behind, and the various ships move out to
form a ring around the ruined structure.

CLOSE ON STARBOARD DOCKING BAYS

The doors of Docking Bays One through Three iris open, Dragonflies
emerging from each one. As we pan forward, fighters shoot from their
tubes, providing escort.

INT. DRAGONFLY – CONTROL CABIN

Landers and Piper pilot the lead Dragonfly, Landers in the pilot’s seat
and Piper co-piloting on his left. The curtain to the back cabin is
closed. Landers is decked out in a camouflage combat uniform, Piper in
his blue uniform.

PIPER
So, you don’t have any clue why she’s pissed?

LANDERS
Not a one, and it’s bugging me.

PIPER
Why don’t you ask her?

LANDERS
It would be inappropriate.
(a beat)
I do know what I’m guessing – her new assistant said something bad
about me.
PIPER
You know her?

LANDERS
I screwed her. She was one of my famous one-night stands. I never
thought Gina had a problem with me, but put a few years distance in a
relationship – even a casual one – and people’s perspectives change
real quick.

PIPER
Do you want me to talk to Carrie? Maybe I can get an answer. . .

LANDERS
Talk to Alridge – I’d appreciate if you would. I would, ordinarily, but
I don’t want to aggravate the situation – especially when I don’t know
the rumor.

PIPER
Understood.
(peering out the window)
My God – look at it.

OVER PIPER’S SHOULDER

And through the window of the Control Cabin, the blackened ruins of
Maranna Colony fills the view. Twisted pieces of debris clank against
the Dragonfly’s hull.

PIPER
It’s a miracle anyone survived.

LANDERS
This is going to be grisly.
(a beat)
If you’ll update Defiant I’ll move us in for docking.

Landers gently pulls the stick left and Piper taps the communications
panel.

PIPER
Wing One to Hawk. Come in Hawk.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

Peck is seated in the command chair, Alridge in her position at his

left.

PECK
Go ahead Wing One.

INT. DRAGONFLY – CONTROL CABIN

PIPER
We’re approaching the main airlock – the place is a mess. Still no
response from anyone inside?

PECK
(filtered)
Negative.
INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

PECK
As before, Ms. Alridge and Ms. Bauer are picking up lifesigns inside,
mostly from the western end of the colony. Maybe a hundred people.

PIPER
(filtered)
Out of nine times that.
(a beat)
We’re almost to the airlock. We’ll call you when we get the survivors
secure for transport.

PECK
Very well.
(a beat, with a sigh)
Barry – good luck to you in there. All of you.

PIPER
(filtered)
Thanks.
(a beat)
Thanks man. Wing One out.

The channel goes dead, and Peck taps a button on the command console.

PECK
Bridge to Captain.

INT. WILMETTE’S OFFICE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette is seated behind his desk reading and signing reports. He

doesn’t look up as he speaks.

WILMETTE
Wilmette here – go ahead.

PECK
(filtered)
The team is about to dock at the colony. They made it without any bumps.

WILMETTE
Not like we expected any, but it’s still nice to hear that.
(he stops writing and looks up)
Any more lifesigns?

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

PECK
Afraid not, sir. Just the hundred or so we detected earlier.

There is silence for a moment before Wilmette speaks.

WILMETTE
(filtered)
Tell me when they’re done with the evacuation, and get Captain Engler
on the horn.
PECK
Aye sir.
(a beat)
Sir. . .?

His voice trails off.

WILMETTE
(filtered)
Yes John?

PECK
Nothing sir. Ms. Martin will have Engler for you in a moment.

INT. WILMETTE’S OFFICE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette nods, slightly puzzled, but he lets it drop.

WILMETTE
Very well. Wilmette out.

Wilmette rises from the chair, picking up his Maryland mug and taking a
sip. After a few seconds the com beeps again.

PECK
(filtered)
Captain Engler is waiting.

WILMETTE
Put him through.

Engler appears on the screen. The captain is seated in his office on

the Virginia, his desk devoid of adornment.

ENGLER
It seems that the evacuation is proceeding well. The teams have just
entered the colony; the civilian vessels are doing a marvelous job
keeping their place.

WILMETTE
(slightly frowning)
We’re fortunate that it’s been quiet.

ENGLER
Fortunate for whom, I can’t decide. I’m sure your ship could take them
on well, as could mine. We’d put up a good fight, I’m sure.

WILMETTE
Lay your cards out Walther – what’s up your ass?

ENGLER
You James. It’s simple; while you are commanding the flagship of the
Pacific Fleet and our lead weapon against the PMR, I am in command of a
thirteen year-old battlewagon, putzing around the Atlantic like an
errand boy.

WILMETTE
You have a good ship Walther – the Aquaticas are still a formidable
force. Sure Defiant’s more high profile, but the Aquaticas are the
backbone of the U.E.O. fleet again. We need them. . .

ENGLER
You miss the point James. You never did it for glory – you did it
because it was the right thing. If the PMR threw everything they had at
us and you died, you’d be content to go down fighting. You make a
difference, but you don’t care how many newspapers you sell.

WILMETTE
(frowning with understanding)
You always were a glory hound.

ENGLER
You’re damned right I was – and a good one too. I made a difference too
James. I didn’t make the splash you and Ford and George did, but I did
my part – served with honor – and I get a desk. That young fool DuCanti
is an admiral now; where are my stripes?

WILMETTE
I’m not an admiral. Sure I have Defiant, but it’s probably going to be
a very frosty day in hell before I go anywhere else. To tell the truth,
I wouldn’t want to.

ENGLER
(angry)
Give me a break. You can’t honestly tell me that you don’t feel trapped
– that you don’t feel like you’re stuck on that ship, nowhere to go.

WILMETTE
I’m afraid I can’t Walther. Sure, a lot of people don’t like me, but
I’m making a difference here, and unlike you, I’m content to sit and
wait awhile – see what life brings me. I thought my life was over –
here I was, busted to lieutenant, every place I went people hated me
and made no great secret of it.
(a beat)
Then I finally found a ship where I was accepted, and a friend who
lobbied for me and got me this ship. She believed in me – hell, many of
them believed in me again, and here I am, rebuilding everything I lost.
It’ll be a hard road, and I might not make it all the way, but it’s a
start.

ENGLER
I’m pleased that you’ve had a revelation James – I really am. But
you’ll excuse me if I’m not as impressed. You see, I haven’t got a
second chance. All I’ve got is a thirteen year-old ship and a ticking
clock, and every tick reminds me that I’m not going anywhere.

The silence hangs in the air for a moment as both men look away from
each other. Finally, Wilmette takes a step toward the screen.

WILMETTE
I imagine that it’ll take the full hour we predicted for the team to
sweep the colony and evacuate the survivors to the civilian transports.
When that is done, Defiant and Abenaki will trade places, and we’ll do
a sweep of the area before the fleet sets course back to Pearl.

ENGLER
(almost with levity)
Sounds like a plan to me.
(a beat)
James, I don’t resent you. I resent what you represent.

WILMETTE
(almost annoyed)
What is that Walther?

ENGLER
Weakness.

WILMETTE
Never call the man who’s willing to die in the line of duty weak.
(a beat)
Defiant out.

The screen goes dead, and Wilmette turns with a sigh and moves back to
his desk.

TIME FADE TO

EXT. MARANNA COLONY

A number of Dragonflies move between the shattered colony and the

civilian transports.

INT. CENTRAL CORRIDOR – DEFIANT DSV

Rusch moves down the wide passageway looking rather nervous. She pauses
in front of Peck’s cabin door, straightens her uniform, then knocks
tentatively.

After a few seconds the door opens, Peck sticks his head out and beams
when he sees her.

PECK
(fake British butler accent)
Yes madam? Can I help you?

RUSCH
(relaxing and cracking a grin)
Can I talk to you?

PECK
(a nod)
Always. Come on in.

INT. PECK’S CABIN – DEFIANT DSV

A standard officer’s cabin, one wall dominated by a large high

definition vid screen and a DVD player, DVD storage bins on either
side. The bed is unmade, a uniform shirt is draped over the bathroom
door, and two civilian shirts and a pair of jeans are draped over the
closet door. Not too messy, but messy enough.

Rusch takes in the room, seating herself on the bed as Peck takes
position on her left. She grins at him, and he returns the grin, but
both of them look a bit tense.

PECK
Like the digs?

RUSCH
(a chuckle)
Half the time my cabin looks worse than this, so I hardly have room to
talk.
(a beat, and she frowns)
I hope you don’t mind me dropping in. . .

PECK
Hey, I missed you at supper. We all did – even the Captain.

RUSCH
He sat with you?

PECK
Yeah, and Lauren didn’t. I noticed her come in, take one look at him,
and walk right back out.

RUSCH
(angry)
She is pissing me off so much.

PECK
At least she didn’t make trouble.

RUSCH
I think she was shocked when he fired back at lunch. Hell, we all were.

PECK
She’s had it coming – he’s getting fed up. He’s finally healing – I’ve
noticed that the past few weeks, since he got back from shore leave in
Denver – and I don’t think he’s going to let anyone or anything get in
the way of that. He’s not different in personality – at least not on
the Bridge – but. . .well, he is different. More confident.

RUSCH
It’s a good change.

PECK
It’s a great change.
(a beat)
Is Lauren bugging you?

RUSCH
Well, in a way. I. . .I’d usually come to her about something like
this, but she and I right now. . .
(a beat)
When that Valhalla went down a few months ago and she went all Captain
Ahab on us, I tried to talk to her about us – about you and me. Well,
she brushed me off. Sure, she apologized later, but. . .it hurt John.
And I’m afraid she’ll do it again.

PECK
What is it?

RUSCH
(angry)
Landers. That son of a bitch Landers.
PECK
(surprised and concerned)
Did he do something to you?

RUSCH
No, but. . .Gina told me about him. He’s a piece of trash! I mean, he’s
got us all fooled.

PECK
What do you mean? What’s he done?

RUSCH
Gina told me that she knew him from high school. He. . .he got his
girlfriend pregnant and he was going to marry her, but he skipped out
on her and joined the U.E.O. That’s why he joined the U.E.O. He used
her!

PECK
Is she reliable – Gina?

RUSCH
I don’t. . .I don’t know. I guess so – she slept with him.

PECK
When?

RUSCH
When she was in high school – apparently he slept around a lot. He’s
scum John – that’s all I know. His fiancé had to have an abortion
because he wouldn’t support her.

Peck rises and begins to pace, looking a bit grim. After a few seconds,
he turns back to her.

PECK
Did you ask Landers about this?

RUSCH
No, I haven’t. I was going to confront him, but we went to
Battlestations before I could get to him in the Rec Room. Does it
matter?

PECK
Hell yes it matters!
(a beat as she fixes him with a glare)
Look Carrie, I understand where you’re coming from. You have a good
reason to hate users like you’ve been told Landers is, but that’s the
thing. You were told that – you didn’t ask him. I don’t know him all
that well – he seems a bit closed – but I’d suggest you confront him.
He seems to be a straight arrow; if someone’s spreading rumors about
him and he’s innocent he’d probably like to know. If he’s not, at least
you’ll know the truth.

Rusch visibly relaxes and rises, giving Peck a hug.

RUSCH
Thanks John. I. . .I was thinking the same thing, but I needed to hear
it from someone I trusted.
PECK
(a boyish grin)
Anytime Carrie. I don’t have to tell you that.
(a beat)
It still bad with you and Lauren?

RUSCH
We’re not fighting right now, but we are. It’s hard to explain.
(a beat)
We’re both stubborn when we know we’re right. The trouble is, both of
us know we’re right.
(Peck smiles and nods understanding)
It’ll work out though. It always does.

PECK
I wish you luck anyway.

Rusch grins and moves for the door, and we

CUT TO

INT. MAIN ENGINEERING – DEFIANT DSV

A fairly large room, dominated by a large mechanical complex in the

center attached to a couple long tables and a number of displays. A
number of rooms lead off the main one, and a catwalk wraps around an
upper level. At the back of the room is the fusion core, a large
central control panel in front of it where Piper and Lt. Kathryn
Shuster, his assistant, stand.

Shuster is a shorter brunette in her late twenties or early thirties

with long hair and a pretty face. She’s not stunning, but she isn’t bad
looking either. She and Piper discuss some readings as Alridge enters
through the heavy main doors and approaches the pair.

PIPER
(to Shuster)
If we’re in normal levels, we don’t need to worry. Just make sure that
the right containment beam doesn’t fluctuate again. Keep it within .2
of normal limits.

SHUSTER
That’s a little higher than we need, but I know you’re going to tell me
that it’s better to be too safe then risk a containment breach, to
which I’m just going to say “Aye sir” and roll my eyes when you turn
around to talk to Commander Alridge.
(the two trade grins)
I’ll get Brewster on it. He’s been “dying for something to do besides
aligning couplers.”
(evil grin)
This’ll be his break.

Piper chuckles and turns toward Alridge who is slightly grinning.

PIPER
So what can I do for our esteemed third-in-command?

ALRIDGE
Would you mind if we talk in your office?

PIPER
That depends on if you’re going to yell at me for the .02 percent
misalignment in the SoftScan.

ALRIDGE
(looking slightly confused)
There is?

PIPER
(nodding)
Has been since our watch ended. I have a couple techs fixing it as we
speak. I told Ms. Bauer about it, and she said that it shouldn’t be a
problem.

ALRIDGE
Actually, I came to talk about a personal matter.

PIPER
(gesturing toward the back of Engineering)
Let’s talk then.

INT. PIPER’S OFFICE – DEFIANT DSV

Much smaller than Wilmette’s, though it still has plenty of room. One
wall has a couch and coffee table, a large engine piece of some sort
bolted to the center, and the walls are dominated by photos of
submarines and classic cars.

Piper’s desk is clean, everything in a neat stack. An empty Styrofoam

cup of coffee makes its way into the garbage as Piper takes a seat,
Alridge plunking in the right visitor chair.

ALRIDGE
Sorry to bother you with this, but it’s about Landers and Carrie.

PIPER
(anticipating)
Mike doesn’t know what she’s mad about, and neither do I. We were kind
of hoping you’d know.

ALRIDGE
(sighing)
I wish I did, but she’s closed herself off to me. She’s still mad about
when I brushed her off. . .

PIPER
When was that?

ALRIDGE
When I very stupidly insisted on investigating that sunken Valhalla
three weeks ago.
(a beat)
She wanted to talk about Commander Peck – what’s going on with him –
and I kind of brushed her off. Ignored her, actually. I barely realized
she was talking to me.

PIPER
Did you apologize?

ALRIDGE
Profusely.
(he gives her a look)
Hey, I might be bullheaded, but I do know when I’m wrong.
(a beat, quieter)
Most of the time.

Piper grins and rises from the desk, coming around to take the seat
next to hers.

PIPER
Look Lauren, we haven’t exactly been friends, but I respect you –
you’re damned good at your job, and I can respect why you feel the way
you do about James. But you’re blunt, stubborn, and sometimes you don’t
think with all your brain, which can get you in a lot of trouble. But
Carrie is your friend – your best friend. She’ll come around. She loves
you deeply – that’s why she’s so mad at you.
(Alridge’s eyes meet his)
She thinks you’re hurting yourself. A lot of us do, and she’s worried
sick about you. So, go make sure she knows that she’s worrying about
nothing.

Alridge nods, thankful.

ALRIDGE
Thanks Barry. I. . .

PIPER
No thanks needed. Just doing my job.

Alridge fixes him with a lopsided grin and rises, moving for the door.
Piper also rises, watching her go.

PIPER
Lauren?

ALRIDGE
(turning)
Yes Barry?

PIPER
Are you hurting yourself?

Pain flashes through Alridge’s face, and she just watches him, unable
to speak. Wordlessly, she turns and departs.

INT. WILMETTE’S OFFICE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette is seated behind the desk talking to Easton over the vid when
there is a knock at the door.

WILMETTE
. . .but it’s pretty bad – only about a hundred or so survivors. We
split them into thirds, so they’ll have plenty of room to mourn.
(calling out)
Come in!
(Landers enters as Wilmette continues)
That’s the least we can do for them.

As Easton speaks, Wilmette gestures for Landers to approach the desk,

and Wilmette comes around to stand on Landers’ right.

EASTON
Well, we’ve got some counselors coming from U.E.O. Medical, and
Robinson is going to be there to greet them.

WILMETTE
(nodding and laying a hand on Landers’ shoulder)
George, this is Lt. Commander Michael Landers, my security chief. Mr.
Landers, this is Admiral George Easton. I’m not sure if you two have
met.

LANDERS
Actually sir, we have.
(turning toward Easton)
Good to see you again Admiral. I hope you’ve been well.

EASTON
Very much so, though up to my ears in paperwork as always.

LANDERS
(a slight grin)
I hear you.

EASTON
(in explanation)
Mr. Landers was assigned to oversee security for Defiant while it was
being built. He and I worked together for. . .over nine months.

WILMETTE
Is that why you were so quiet when I told you how good he was?
(Easton just grins, as does Landers)
Is there anything else I should know that you haven’t told me yet?

EASTON
I don’t think so James. You Mr. Landers?

LANDERS
(grinning at the Admiral)
No sir.

The three men share a brief laugh, and then Wilmette turns to Landers.
All three of them are back to business.

WILMETTE
(slightly smiling)
George and I wanted you to brief us on the mission.

LANDERS
Well, the operation went pretty quickly – I think quicker than any of
us expected. We got the survivors off – last count was one hundred
seven people out of eight hundred.
(a beat)
It wasn’t an attack – it was a massacre. The survivors have plenty of
conflicting reports, but it sounds like nine PMR ships – three or four
of them Ragnaroks – came out of nowhere and blasted the colony. The
main dome ruptured pretty quickly, the others following not long after,
and about two hundred of the casualties came in the first minute.

During this exchange all three men retain their professional fronts,
despite the horror and the implications of what they’re discussing.

WILMETTE
Damage to the colony?

LANDERS
Besides extensive – it’s a mess, sir. Mr. Piper did some looking
around, gave the place a rather thorough once-over, and though he said
he didn’t have time to really do a good assessment, he said it was
probably totaled.

WILMETTE
And Barry’s opinion is as good as any you’ll get.

EASTON
(nodding)
From everything you’ve sent me, that’s what I expect the Yotanka will
find when she gets there later tomorrow.
(a beat)
What’s your plan?

WILMETTE
Well, Engler suggested we get out of here tonight, and Captain Michaels
agreed. And so did I – we’re sitting here with three civilian
transports that wouldn’t do too well in a fight. I’d rather not wait
for the PMR to show up and start shooting.

LANDERS
Even though I’m not a tactician, I’d say that it’s pretty sound.
Honestly, there’s nothing left to protect.

EASTON
Well then, pack up and get out of there.

WILMETTE
We’ll get underway after this.
(to Landers)
Thank you Mr. Landers – that will be all.

Landers nods and salutes Wilmette, then salutes Admiral Easton, both of
whom return the salutes.

LANDERS
It was good to see you again Admiral.

EASTON
You too Mr. Landers. Stop by sometime and I’ll buy you a drink.

LANDERS
I’d like that, sir. Thank you.

Landers exits, and once the door closes Wilmette leans on the edge of
his desk.

WILMETTE
(grim)
I was waiting for this.

EASTON
So was I.

WILMETTE
Think it’ll finally wake people up – remind them who we’re dealing with?

EASTON
We can hope James. We can hope.

END ACT THREE

ACT FOUR

FADE IN

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The warship cuts through the depths of the Pacific, the fleet right
behind.

INT. CENTRAL CORRIDOR – DEFIANT DSV

Landers walks through the corridor out of uniform and pauses in front
of Rusch’s door, knocking.

RUSCH
(muffled through door)
Come in!

Landers opens the door and enters.

INT. RUSCH’S CABIN – DEFIANT DSV

Landers enters and shuts the door, finding Rusch sitting on the bed
reading a letter. When her eyes meet Landers she tenses visibly.

LANDERS
Carolyn – I thought it was time for a talk.

RUSCH
(gesturing to the chair at her crowded desk)
Have a seat.
(setting down the letter)
I suppose you’ve come to ask why I hate at you.

LANDERS
Well, no one seems to know, and I wanted to know if I did something to
you.

RUSCH
(mad)
No, you didn’t do something to me, but you’re a piece of trash. You
know that?

LANDERS
(taken aback)
Whoa, whoa, whoa! What did I do to you?

RUSCH
Not to me.
(a beat)
I had a talk with Gina.

LANDERS
Gina Turner? Is she that Gina Turner?
(Rusch nods)
Holy shi. . .I had. . .
(a shocked beat)
I had no idea.

RUSCH
I’m sure you didn’t.

LANDERS
What did she tell you?

RUSCH
(her eyes piercing his)
She told me about Amy.

Landers goes white, running his hands through his hair.

LANDERS
(to himself)
This is not happening. This is not happening.
(looking at Rusch)
Look Carrie, I had hoped that no one here would find out about that.

RUSCH
(cold)
I’m sure you didn’t.

LANDERS
Oh no, no. You aren’t going to blame me for that.

RUSCH
You abandoned her!!! Did you know she had an abortion?

LANDERS
(stopped dead in his tracks)
She did?

RUSCH
Yes, she did!

LANDERS
It’s not my fault!

RUSCH
Yes it is!

LANDERS
Carrie, I was sick! Don’t you understand? I was sick. I had to go see
someone – had counseling.
(a beat)
She was the best thing that ever happened to me, and I walked out on
her. Damn it, I walked out on her, and I hate myself every minute for
it, but I’m sorry. I’m sorry for her.

RUSCH
(pain)
Do you what that’s like? Someone loves you, and then they betray you?

LANDERS
No Carrie, I don’t know, and I thank God.

RUSCH
I wish you did! I wish you could hurt like that sometime!

LANDERS
(angry now)
Who are you to judge me? Huh? Who are you? You’re as bad as Lauren
judging the Captain!
(Rusch stops dead, tears forming)
Yes! You’re as bad as she is.

RUSCH
(quiet, tears falling)
You don’t know what he did to me – what that felt like.

LANDERS
(setting a gentle hand on her shoulder)
No, I don’t, but I can try.

Her eyes meet his, and he smiles at her, reassuringly. She tentatively
smiles back.

INT. WILMETTE’S CABIN – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette is laying in bed in a t-shirt and his uniform pants reading

American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis when the intercom beeps. He
inserts his bookmark and taps the button on his nightstand.

WILMETTE
Wilmette here.

BAUER
(filtered)
Sorry to bother you sir, but the Abenaki is getting some strange
readings up ahead. They think it might be a fleet of some sort.

WILMETTE
(frowning)
Are we in scanner range?

BAUER
(filtered)
We will be in. . .ten seconds.
(a beat)
Five seconds. Four, three, two, one. . .
(a beat, then tensely)
Sir, we’re getting readings – enemy attack fleet dead ahead, ETA six
minutes.
Wilmette jumps out of bed, moving for his closet.

WILMETTE
Go to General Quarters. I’ll be up in a minute.

BAUER
(filtered)
Aye sir.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette strides onto the Bridge in a fresh uniform shirt. Everyone

present are extras save for Bauer who occupies the command chair. As
Wilmette approaches she vacates his chair and relieves the man at
Operations.

WILMETTE
(checking his console)
Status.

BAUER
(reading from her console)
Enemy attack fleet dead ahead, ETA now four minutes, twenty-six
seconds. It looks like. . .three Ragnaroks and four Valhallas.

WILMETTE
Get me Captain Engler and Captain Michaels, split-screen.

Kelly Sowards, a pretty, slightly plump brunette at Communications nods.

SOWARDS
Aye sir.
(there is silence for a moment)
Got them.

WILMETTE
On screen.

Engler and Michaels appear on the Bridges of their respective ships.

Micahels looks tense while Engler looks simply alert.

WILMETTE
We’ve got trouble, as I’m sure you’re aware.

MICHAELS
I’ve already sent out a general request for assistance – we’re
outnumbered and outgunned.
(a beat)
They’ve got the Wilson and the Baltimore on the way, but the ETA on
them is six minutes, give or take. They happened to be responding to an
attack in the area.

WILMETTE
Then we’ll have to hold out for six minutes. You ready Walther?

ENGLER
Ready as I’ll ever be James. I suppose you’ll take charge on this one.

WILMETTE
Any objections?

ENGLER
In this case, none. I may be bitter but I’m not stupid.

WILMETTE
(a slight grin)
O.K. then. Abenaki will hang back to defend the fleet while Virginia
and Defiant take point. It’s simple – don’t get killed. We’ve got seven
hundred people at the colony behind us – let’s try to keep it at that.

Engler nods and cuts the channel. Michaels fixes Wilmette with a
worried smile, and he gives her a comforting one.

MICHAELS
I just hope you’re as good as they say you are.

WILMETTE
I try. You’ll do fine – you’ve got a hell of a ship.

MICHAELS
(with a chuckle)
It’ll do. Abenaki out.

The screen goes dead, and Wilmette’s smile lingers for a few seconds
before disappearing. After a moment he’s all business. Behind him Peck
and Alridge walk onto the Bridge, Piper right behind. All of them are
in uniform.

Peck approaches Wilmette, standing behind his captain Alridge and Piper
stand right behind, watching Wilmette.

PECK
(with a grin)
We figured you could use our help.

WILMETTE
(a slight smile and a nod)
I think we will. We’ve got an enemy attack force on its way, ETA. . .

BAUER
Three minutes, twelve seconds.

WILMETTE
There are three Ragnaroks and four Valhallas, and our reinforcements
will be another five minutes off. Virginia and Defiant will protect the
fleet while Abenaki stays behind to clean up whatever gets through.
(a beat)
Mr. Peck, Mr. Piper, take your stations.

Peck takes his chair while Piper moves to his station.

WILMETTE
Ms. Alridge, Ms. Bauer has Operations for this one. I think we’ll need
your expertise leading our fighters.

ALRIDGE
(with a nod)
Aye sir. Orders?
WILMETTE
Watch our ass.

Alridge grimly nods and moves to leave. After she is gone Wilmette
checks his console, looks at Peck and Bauer, both of whom give him a
nod that they’re ready.

WILMETTE
Battlestations.

The alarm klaxon goes off, and Peck counts down as the clamshell doors
slide closed.

PIPER
Damage control ready.

Lt. Gina Turner is at Weapons.

TURNER
Weapons hot.

WILMETTE
This your first battle aboard Defiant?

TURNER
Yes sir.

WILMETTE
You ready?

TURNER
Yes sir, I am.

Wilmette nods, turning back to his station.

BAUER
Enemy fleet ETA, one minute.

SOWARDS
(OS)
The Wilson and Baltimore estimate they will arrive in four to five
minutes.

BAUER
Enemy vessels powering up weapons.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The warship approaches the vague shapes of her enemies just beyond the
bow, her pulse laser nodes glowing red and torpedo tubes open. The
Virginia is on her left, her weapons ready.

CLOSE ON STARBOARD FIGHTER TUBES

All eight of the doors iris open, and one after another Phantoms shoot
from the tubes, peeling up from Defiant.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

The atmosphere is tense as the Battlestations lights flash.

WILMETTE
ETA enemy fleet?

BAUER
Contact in ten, nine, eight, seven, six. . .

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The U.E.O. vessels and the PMR ships slide through the depths, closer
and closer. The PMR ships also have weapons ready.

BAUER
(VO)
Five, four, three, two, one. Contact eminent.

The lead PMR ship, a Ragnarok, opens fire on Defiant, the second
Ragnarok opening up on Virginia.

WILMETTE
(VO)
Evasive! Fire at will.

Defiant’s pulse lasers open up on its opponent, tearing pieces off the
Ragnarok. The Phantoms from Defiant spread out, concentrating on a
Valhalla right behind the Ragnarok. Defiant takes a number of solid
laser hits from the Ragnarok on the lower part of the bow.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

The Bridge rocks from the impacts.

WILMETTE
Damage report!

PIPER
Damage to the first and second layers.

WILMETTE
Status of enemy ship?

BAUER
They’ve taken some solid hits near their bow and a couple aft, but
they’re holding up well. Wait a minute.
(a beat, as Defiant is badly shaken from an impact)
Sir, the third Ragnarok has slipped past us!

WILMETTE
(pissed, looking to Turner)
Ms. Turner, how the hell. . .

Wilmette is cut off as Defiant violently bucks. One of the lights

overhead explodes in a shower of sparks, making everyone duck, and the
Sensors station, currently unoccupied, blows outward.

BAUER
(OS)
Sir, the SoftScan Array took a direct hit – efficiency down forty-five
percent.

PIPER
(OS)
Hull breach, Deck Six and Seven.

Wilmette looks to Turner. Both of them looked harried and pissed as

hell.

TURNER
That’s how.

The ship rocks again, not quite as badly.

WILMETTE
Helm, would you please keep them off our ass?

HELM
(OS)
Aye sir – trying.

WILMETTE
Ms. Turner, prepare torpedoes and pulse lasers. When we come about, I
want you to tear that Ragnarok apart.

TURNER
(resolute)
Aye sir.

WILMETTE
Helm, prepare to come about on my mark. Give Ms. Turner an optimum
firing position, and make sure we don’t get hit.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

Defiant slips through the water away from the Ragnarok, its hull and
bioskin pockmarked with burns and impacts. Its pulse lasers are once
again glowing as the Ragnarok, also somewhat damaged, pursues.

WILMETTE
(VO)
Helm, come about. . .now!

Defiant, despite being damaged, makes a graceful arc around and opens
up on the Ragnarok. It opens fire on them, but they manage to dodge all
but two of the shots. This time, Defiant’s pulse lasers and torpedoes
cut deep into the Ragnarok’s hull, and it begins to go down, explosive
out gassing visible through two of the hull breaches.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

Bauer checks her console, then grins.

BAUER
We got them! The Ragnarok is sinking to the bottom, and lifeboats are
being released.

WILMETTE
Helm, set a course for Abenaki, best speed.
(happy but barely showing it)
Status of Abenaki?

BAUER
Taking heavy fire. A Valhalla joined the Ragnarok. They’re holding
together, but by a thread. Our ETA is a minute and a half.

PECK
Those Havasus can kick ass. . .

WILMETTE
(nodding grimly)
I know John. I know.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The submarine comes closer to the distant Havasu which is being

hammered by the PMR vessels while holding off fire from the transports
surprisingly well. The Abenaki is a powerful ship that’s just barely
been outgunned.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

The atmosphere is tense as Bauer’s console begins to beep lightly. She

checks it.

BAUER
Sir, the Wilson and the Baltimore have entered the fray. They are
taking on the Valhallas with our fighters and the Virginia.
(a beat)
The Virginia seems to be breaking away, approaching our position.

SOWARDS
Sir, we’re getting a signal from Captain Engler.

Wilmette looks up in surprise.

WILMETTE
On screen.

Engler appears on the main viewer.

WILMETTE
What the hell are you doing?

ENGLER
The Baltimore signaled us all clear to assist the Abenaki. From the
look of it, you’ll need the help.

WILMETTE
(a slight nod)
It would be appreciated. What’s your ETA?

ENGLER
One minute twelve.

WILMETTE
See you then.
The channel goes dead, and Wilmette exhales.

PECK
At least he’s following orders this time.

Wilmette can’t help but chuckle, and his eyes meet the viewer which
shows the battle between the Abenaki, which has been torn all to hell,
and the PMR ships. Bauer notices the concern that crosses Wilmette’s
face.

BAUER
Our ETA is forty-two seconds.

WILMETTE
(with a nod)
Ready all weapons.

TURNER
Weapons are all ready.

WILMETTE
(to Piper)
How are we doing?

PIPER
Holding together, though we’ll be in big trouble if they get too many
hits in. I’ve got the SoftScan working at eighty percent again, but
it’s spit and friggin’ bailing wire.

WILMETTE
Helm, you heard Mr. Piper.

The man at Helm is Hispanic, short with dark hair.

HELM
(with resolution)
Yes sir, I did.

BAUER
ETA ten seconds.

WILMETTE
Tell me when we’re in range.

BAUER
(OS)
Now sir.

WILMETTE
Fire!

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

Defiant opens up on the Valhalla, ripping plates out of its port side.
The Ragnarok turns its attention from the crippled Abenaki to Defiant
and opens up. Defiant takes four solid hits to the starboard.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

The lighting dips as the place bucks and throws a few people, including
Peck, Turner, and Sowards out of their seats. The gutted sensors
station throws sparks and smoke into the air.

WILMETTE
Mr. Piper, damage report.

PIPER
Multiple direct hits to the starboard side. We’ve lost most of the
SoftScan Array and the Graphica on that side, and though we don’t have
any hull breaches, the damage went right down to the third layer.

The ship takes another impact, and metal creaks and break off screen as
Wilmette is almost thrown out of his chair, holding onto his console
for dear life.

PECK
We’re getting our ass kicked.

WILMETTE
Turner! What the hell. . .

The Bridge rocks again, and part of Bauer’s console blows outward. She
dives out of her chair to avoid the flying metal.

PIPER
(OS)
There went SoftScan!

TURNER
(going white)
I’ve lost all targeting!

Wilmette rises and leans over Bauer’s chair, helping her to her feet.
She has blood flowing from a nasty gash above her right eyebrow, and
she winces as she touches it. She nods to Wilmette that she’ll be all
right.

PECK
(to Wilmette)
Sir, maybe we should send out. . .

TURNER
(OS)
Sir! The viewer!

Everyone looks up as the Virginia, somewhat damaged, streaks across the

main viewer.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The Ragnarok is coming at Defiant for another hit when Virginia flies
across our view, placing itself between Defiant and the Ragnarok. The
Aquatica takes heavy fire but keeps its position.

The Ragnarok doesn’t back down however – it moves to go around the

now-burning Virginia. The Aquatica struggles to intercept it before it
can make its way around, but the Ragnarok gets a couple shots off, both
of which tear into Defiant.

The Ragnarok is making a beeline for Defiant, a sitting duck near the
crippled Abenaki when Virginia begins to move towards the PMR vessel.
Like a knife into flesh, Virginia’s bow pierces the Ragnarok’s hull.

The PMR vessel’s engines kick in full throttle, but it is no use –

Virginia stabs into the enemy vessel as Defiant and Abenaki begin to
slowly limp away while Virginia and the Ragnarok just hang there
burning.

INT. BRIDGE – DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette holds onto his station, eyes riveted on the main viewer.

SOWARDS
Sir! There’s a message coming in from Virginia.

WILMETTE
(shocked)
On screen.

Engler appears on the main viewer, his battered Bridge aflame behind
him. He knows he has but seconds left, but he remains strangely calm,
despite the blood running down the left side of his head from a large
gash.

ENGLER
(weak)
James. . .

WILMETTE
Go ahead.

ENGLER
I just. . .I just wanted you to know why.
(he coughs painfully)
It’s not you. I wanted to let you burn, but we need your ship.

Wilmette’s face is a mask of conflicting emotions – pain, rage, sorrow.

Pity surfaces.

WILMETTE
I feel sorry for you Walther – you’re just a bitter old man.

ENGLER
(an almost evil grin)
See you in hell James.

After a few seconds the screen goes dead.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

There is the horrible echo of tearing metal, and the Ragnarok lights up
in a giant explosion. The Virginia goes with her, the fireball from the
two ships expanding to fill the screen as we

END ACT FOUR

ACT FIVE

FADE IN

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

The battered submarine is parked in its berth at Pearl Harbor,

technicians swarming over the hull, crates of equipment littering the
docks behind them. The noontime sun is high in the sky over the Admin
Building up the hill.

SUPERIMPOSE: THE NEXT DAY

INT. ALRIDGE’S CABIN – DEFIANT DSV

Alridge is laying on the bed in her civvies reading the latest issue of
Amazing Stories when there is a knock at the door. She doesn’t look up
as she calls out.

ALRIDGE
Come in!

Rusch enters, looking rather timid.

RUSCH
(before Alridge can speak)
I’m just going to say it Laurie – I’m sorry. I just. . .I’m sorry.

Alridge rises from the bed, worried. She approaches Rusch and lays a
gentle hand on her shoulder.

ALRIDGE
Hey Carrie, it’s O.K. Really – I’ve been worried why you did it. I know
I screwed up, but. . .

RUSCH
(shaking her head)
It’s not you. It was. . .Gina told me something about Landers,
and . . .well, it dug up some stuff. . .

ALRIDGE
Some Kevin stuff?

RUSCH
(her eyes tearing, her gaze hitting the floor)
Yes, and I let it get to me, and. . .

Rusch sobs, and Alridge hugs her tightly, letting her cry.

ALRIDGE
It’s O.K. Carrie. It’s O.K.

Hold on their hug, then

CUT TO

INT. CENTRAL CORRIDOR – DEFIANT DSV

Rusch emerges from Alridge’s cabin, her eyes a little red, and she
comes face-to-face with Landers who pauses to speak with her.

LANDERS
You O.K.?

RUSCH
(smiling slightly and nodding)
Yeah – I will be. I got everything worked out with Laurie – she forgave
me. I knew she would, but. . .
(her eyes meet Landers, and her voice is sincere)
Look, again, I’m sorry. I really, really am sorry.

LANDERS
Hey, after what happened to you. . .well, you told me enough that I
know, you deserve to have some slack. What happened to you is horrible
– I mean really terrible – and I imagine it’s still hard to live with.
You made a judgment, and it was the wrong one, but it was a valid
assumption based on the info you had, as Piper might say.
(a beat as they both smile)
Bottom line, we’re clear, and I really look forward to being your
friend.

RUSCH
(taking his hand)
You too Mike. You too.

EXT. PEARL HARBOR U.E.O. BASE – ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

Easton and Wilmette, both in uniform, emerge from the front entrance
and make their way down the stairs.

WILMETTE
While I was waiting Piper called – he told me that they’ve got the
replacement panels for the SoftScan installed, and they hope to have
them running later today.

EASTON
I’m just glad Defiant didn’t have to be drydocked. That’s about the
last thing we need right now. With Abenaki in the docks, and Virginia
lost. . .

The two men make their way around the building, away from the path
leading down to Defiant.

WILMETTE
It’s too bad about Walther.

EASTON
It happens. Sure, it’s a tragedy, but don’t try to tell me Walther was
anything more than a glory hound that happened to be a great captain.
We could have used him, but we’ll do just fine without him.

WILMETTE
I thought he was a better man than that. He was so bitter. . .

EASTON
Just a lesson for both of us, my friend. Walther let himself get old;
more than anything Walther wanted your spot in the history books – he
wasn’t content with his.
WILMETTE
He wasn’t content with making a difference.

EASTON
Few of us are. You and I are uncommon; I hope that’s not news to you.

WILMETTE
(with a smile)
It isn’t – not by a long shot.
(a beat)
And now we have to be noble again. The PMR reminded a whole lot of
people just how dangerous they are.

EASTON
They took out a U.E.O. ship, may have taken out another if what I’m
hearing about the Abenaki is correct, and Maranna Colony will have to
be totally rebuilt. We got our ass kicked hard today.

WILMETTE
Correy proved to us that he’s still the same man we faced six years
ago. A bad situation just got worse. The only question is now, how do
we cope?

The two men are silent for a moment, letting the question hang. Finally
they arrive at the monorail station behind the Admin Building, and
Easton turns to Wilmette.

EASTON
Cuthberts’ sound good for lunch?

WILMETTE
(setting a hand on his friend’s shoulder)
Sounds great George.

As the monorail slides into the station, they step toward it among the
others, uniformed and in civvies, that crowd the platform.

FADE OUT

THE END

Copyright 2001 Defiant Editorial.