Defiant: 105 - Echoes of Past Transgressions

8/14/2019 Defiant: 105 - Echoes of Past Transgressions

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DefiantEpisode 105Echoes of Past TransgressionsWritten By Adam Holmberg

TEASER

FADE IN

EXT. DEFIANT DSV AERIAL VIEW

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

SUPERIMPOSE: Defiant DSV, Stationary Outside Pearl HarborNEW LINE: April 7, 2052

INT. WILMETTES OFFICE DEFIANT DSV

Pan over the painting of the Maryland near the viewer on the wallopposite the desk, over Wilmettes couch and coffee table piled withbooks, over the visitors chairs, to the tip of Wilmettes penscribbling his signature on a report. Off screen, a knocking becomesaudible.

PULL BACK

To reveal Wilmette, a miniscule hint of tension evident under his usualcalm demeanor. He sets the report on a fairly tall pile and opensanother.

WILMETTECome 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 visitors chairs.

WILMETTE(not looking up, not a question)Theyve arrived.

PECKYes 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 asecond.


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(a beat)Engler.

PECKWere 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 weve had, hesstill a human being. Hes hard, unforgiving, and hes ambitious. Thetruth is, hed like to be an admiral, but hes too abrasive. Hes agreat captain for all those reasons, but he wont kiss ass, and in theAtlantic where hes spent most of his time the past three years that doesnt help you.

PECKHe resents you?

WILMETTEThats the problem - I dont know. I dont see why he would, butWalther has always been good at seeing what he wants to, and if itmeans that I shouldnt be in that captains chair because hes not anadmiral. . .

PECK(disbelief)Thats what he thinks?

WILMETTEGeorge said hes heard that through the grapevine. Now, he could bewrong a lot of people on the Atlantic side dont very well likeGeorge Easton. . .

PECKThats ridiculous!

WILMETTE(a slight grin)I didnt say it made sense. A lot of things dont when youre behindthis desk.(a beat, rubbing the bridge of his nose)Its 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.

PECKSir?

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

PECKSir, when I was on the Agamemnon , I lost my captain and my ship.Captain Anders was killed by pirates working for the Carolinians - they


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boarded the Ag and started shooting, and he was one of the firstcasualties. Then, a few months later the Carolinians sent that boat tothe bottom of the ocean. It hurt.

WILMETTE(nods empathetically)Im sorry.

PECK(a grateful nod as he continues)After that I bounced around from base-to-base while they figured outwhat to do with me. Captain Matthews didnt need me seaQuest alreadyhad an XO, and I would have been a controversial choice anyhow andthey didnt have a ship low profile enough to let me command, soI . . .well, I considered quitting. Hitchcock put me on sometactical committee, but I wasnt a desk jockey. I actually was going tostop by Pearl and start the discharge process when they called me. Theywere giving Wilmette the Defiant . He needed an XO, and all theirchoices turned it down. Would I?

Wilmette smiles at this, and Peck returns the smile.

PECK(cont)So, I said yes. Didnt even think about it just said the word. Ithink a Captain Bergeron called me, and he seemed a bit surprised and abit relieved.

WILMETTEIm sure he was they did get the ship ready in a rush, and I waspretty adamant about finishing my time aboard seaShark before cominghere. They needed someone to oversee things sure werent going to letme do it.

PECKI have to admit that I was excited to be aboard the Defiant is a highprofile boat but I wasnt sure about you. I didnt know what youd belike a lot of people do call you things like criminal andmurderer. But, I also knew that if you didnt last if you did gonuts or something that Id be the next in line for command. It wouldtake some cajoling with the boys in Command, but I could at least havea shot.

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

PECKThats the strange part. Im ambitious as hell, but when you cameaboard and I got to know you we arent friends, sir, and Im not sureif thats good or bad, but I respect you a lot, and for the first timein my life Im content to wait for that captains pin.

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

WILMETTE(a reflective smile)Thanks John.


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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 despitehaving command. Wilmette and Peck stride onto the Bridge and Peck takeshis seat, nodding at Alridge, as Wilmette walks to the front of theCommand Plex.

On the main viewer is an image of a small fleet of five submarinesriding on the surface, the lead ship a sleek and deadly Aquatica theVirginia . Wilmette absorbs it in silence, then turns toward Peck andAlridge.

WILMETTEStatus of fleet?

ALRIDGETheyre all there sir. An Aquatica, a Havasu, and three relieffreighters.

PECKI still dont see why we need the extra escort. The Ragnaroks prettymuch decimated the colony theyre down to one dome and a third oftheir original population. Why would the PMR even want to bother it?

WILMETTEThey probably wouldnt, but Ive learned to not underestimate them.Maranna is a symbol one of the oldest colonies in the Pacific, weliberated it three times from the Macs. Its one of our most heavilydefended colonies hitting it was a message that no one is safe.

RUSCHPretty repetitive message.

WILMETTEFor us, yes, but some of the politicians still think this will all blowover in a couple months. Theyre a long way from the battlefield, safein their cozy little Senate chamber in Portland.

A light beeping becomes audible in the background at Martins station,and Wilmette turns toward her as she listens to the message. After afew seconds she looks at him.

MARTINCaptain 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 hisuniforms and sighs, and we see him quickly regain his composure.Finally, he looks up at the screen.


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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 CaptainWalther Engler appears.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

Engler is in his early to mid fifties with a hint of gray in his blackhair 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?

ENGLERThe 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 thattheyll give a ship to anybody nowadays.

The double meaning isnt lost on Wilmette, but he doesnt show anyemotion as he lets the air hang dead for a moment.

WILMETTETime is of the essence in this mission, so I think we should meet onDefiant en route. Ive been put in command of the relief fleet, butthree of the ships are civilian vessels, and Id rather them not getany notions that the U.E.O. is heavy handed, so Id like you to extendan invitation. . .

ENGLERBefore you start dictating orders to me, lets make one thing clear. Idont think you should be in that uniform, and Ill be as civil as Ineed to be, but dont expect me to like it.

WILMETTE(challenging)And what does that mean?

ENGLERIt means whatever you want it to mean.


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Peck looks ready to explode he swallows hard, turning red, knuckleswhite where his hand grips his console while Alridge watches theexchange 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. . .

ENGLERExpect me to what? Treat you like a colleague?(almost a laugh)Hitchcock may have given you your chair back, but that doesnt meananybody 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, hisface hard.

WILMETTE(voice intensely quiet and level)Whether or not you have faith in me, I am in command on this one. Youcan work with me, or Ill knock you out of my way so hard you wontknow what hit you until youre before the U.E.O. Pacific Fleet CommandBoard Of Review.(deadly)And you know that I would do that.

Englers jaw about drops, and he is speechless for a moment, but hequickly regains his composure, looking almost annoyed.

ENGLER(almost bitter)Why didnt you wash out? Shes dead James what do you think shed sayif she were here?

WILMETTE(low and intense)She wouldnt let me.(before Engler can say anything)As I was saying, Id appreciate if youd contact the civilian ships inthe fleet to set up a meeting. Its 0816 now, so lets make it here at0830 well set out right after that.

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

WILMETTE(not budging)I didnt 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 watchhim with fascination and tension. Finally, regaining most of hiscomposure, Wilmette turns toward Peck.

WILMETTE


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

PECK(anticipating)Youll 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 hesteps down from the upper row of stations, Peck, who is on his way tothe center seat, grabs Pipers arm.

PECK(low and sincere)If you need me, get me. Consider that an order. Id walk into hell forthat man.

PIPER(meeting his eyes)So would I.

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

PECKMs. Martin, signal the fleet to form up on our stern. Mr. Wong, oncethey have, assume a standard escort position and keep it.

After the aye sirs have sounded, Alridge turns toward Peck and speaksin a low voice.

ALRIDGEYou did realize what happened, didnt you?

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

ALRIDGEThis might be an interesting cruise.

Peck doesnt respond, but his tension now matches Wilmettes.

INT. DEFIANT DSV WILMETTES OFFICE

The door bursts open, and Wilmette enters seething. He turns toward thedoor, expecting to see Piper behind, but when the engineer doesntappear, Wilmette strides over to the desk and kicks a visitors chair,sending it flying against a wall. When Piper enters, he sees Wilmetteabout to lunge at his coffee table, and he rushes to grab his captainand hold him back.

PIPERWhoa, James! Dont.


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WILMETTE(whipping around and out of Pipers grip)That bastard!! Hes trying to undermine me!! Lives are at stake, andhes sabotaging me!!

PIPERHe doesnt know you man. He doesnt know you. Dont let it get to you

hes trying to push your buttons so youll slip up and he can callwhatever Senator owes him a favor.

WILMETTEHe never used to be like that! Hes been at this longer than I have he should know better. Hes a professional.

PIPERWas a professional. Now hes a bitter man whos been at his positionfor too long while youre the best captain currently in the U.E.O.(Wilmettes eyes snap to meet Pipers, and the engineer smiles)Well, I might be biased. The best captain in the U.E.O. is also myfriend, after all.

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

WILMETTESorry Barry. . .

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

WILMETTEHe made me mad I hate to see a good man do that.

PIPERSo do I, but it happens. Just be glad youre the one in command and nothim. Just be yourself, and well get through this.

WILMETTE(a beat, then Wilmette lays a hand on Pipers 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 ofthe table, Peck at his right. Next to Peck is Engler, not looking toopleased, and next to Engler is Captain Daria Michaels early thirties,dark hair, and pretty.


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Across the table is Captain Robert Dupree - in his mid-forties,slightly out of shape, with salty hair and a matching beard, JonasQueen - a tall black man in his mid-twenties, and Heath Gressom inhis sixties and slightly fat.

Besides the Defiant people and Engler and Michaels wear U.E.O. uniforms

the rest are in civvies.

WILMETTESo, to wrap things up and review, when we arrive the Abenaki and theVirginia will take point while the Rhineland , the Houston , and the SanQuintin move in to evacuate the survivors.(facing Queen and Gressom)Defiant will cover you. It should be in-and-out and we dont expect thePMR to make any trouble, but we want to be prepared.

GRESSOMI was on a few of these runs before Captain I know the drill prettywell.

QUEENThis 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, well do justfine.

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. Wilmettejumps in before anyone can say anything.

WILMETTE(a trace of menace)I think were all professionals here Captain Engler.

ENGLER(pointed)Most of us at least.

Peck turns a bit red, Michaels looks slightly disgusted, and Dupreeseyes are on the table in front of him. After the silence hangs, Gressomjumps in to everyones surprise.

GRESSOMCaptain Wilmette probably doesnt remember, but I was involved with himon a similar mission during the Mac War. It was Polk Colony that hadbeen hit, and it was in a lot worse shape than the one were on the wayto. 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 hiseyes, disgusted.

PECKI remember reading about that at the Academy you got ambushed on theway out, and a couple of the transports got separated from the main


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fleet.

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

GRESSOM(almost proudly)I was the one who sent that distress call.(as he speaks, Gressoms gaze meets each of them this story meanssomething to him)I was second-in-command of the August , under my friend Todd Stewart. Weall thought we were dead our hull was cut to hell within thirtyseconds of fire but here comes the Maryland , riding in hard from thefront of the pack. Captain Wilmette didnt mince words he just openedfire and he saved us. It was an ambush, and his fleet was tied up, sohe did the job himself.(Wilmette grins with the memory, despite himself)He put his ship between us and those Macs. He saved us.

WILMETTEJust doing my job.

GRESSOMAnd 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 wouldnt blame you, but the factof the matter is, Ive seen him in action, and no matter what mistakeshes made. . .hell 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 youclaim to be.

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

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

PECKI second that its always nice to see some of the folks we work for.

GRESSOM(extending his hand toward Wilmette)


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An honor to meet you sir.

WILMETTE(shaking Gressoms hand, smiling warmly)And you too sir.

Everyone follows Wilmette and Gressoms example and rises to shake

hands, and we

DISSOLVE TO

EXT. CONVOY

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

INT. RECREATION ROOM DEFIANT DSV

For a room on a submarine, its pretty big. We pan over the tablesaround the self-serve wet bar on our right, over the small stage inback, to the couches on our left. On one of the sofas nearest us sitsRusch and a pretty brunette about her age, Lt. Gina Turner, both inuniform.

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

RUSCHSince Ive been aboard he has been. Hes. . .interesting. Hes tough,and he expects only the best, but he gives the same, and he showscompassion in ways that Ive never seen in another captain.

TURNERCaptain Bell certainly wasnt like that. Of course, its not like wefrequently went into combat.(a beat)When they told me about the transfer, I wasnt sure. I mean. . .I mightbe a Weapons officer, but I didnt sign up to be the Assistant WeaponsChief on the U.E.O.s first warship.(spotting someone, surprise)Hey! Is that him?

TURNERS POV LANDERS

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

RUSCH(OS)Who? Mike Landers?

TURNERYeah! Do you know him?

BACK TO RUSCH AND TURNER

RUSCH


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Well, hes the Chief of Security do you know him?

TURNEROh yeah! I slept with him!(Ruschs 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?

TURNEROh yeah all the time. He had big commitment problems, and we usuallywere lucky to get him for one date. In fact, he ran out on his fianc.

RUSCH(turning a bit red)What?

TURNERYeah. Her name was Amy Holden. I was actually two years behind him, soI didnt know her, but she was bright and very pretty. He apparentlygot counseling for his problem, and he was back on track, but heditched her at the altar we thought hed signed up. His family movedout 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.

TURNERIm sure they were she was pregnant.

RUSCH(crimson)Pregnant?

TURNER(not seeming to notice the effect she has on Rusch as she watchesLanders)Mmhm. She had an abortion even if shed wanted it, she would have hadno way to take care of it. Her family wasnt poor, but she was thethird kid out of six. They just couldnt support her, and she didnthave a job. Hell, she didnt 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 Ruschs anger, and she seemsconfused by it. Rusch rises from her seat, straightening her uniform.

TURNERWhy are you angry?

RUSCH


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(her gaze fixed on Landers)Ask me when Im not busy.

And she begins to stride toward the bar. However, halfway there theintercom 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 beginsrushing to their Battlestations. . .except Rusch, who stands watchingLanders rush out with Piper, her fists clenched. After a few secondsTurner appears behind her.

TURNER(laying a hand on her shoulder)Come on were on alert!

RUSCH(under her breath)Saved this time.

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


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

PECKWeve got company?

WILMETTEA couple Valhallas and a Ragnarok, dead ahead. Theyre on an interceptcourse, ETA. . .

ALRIDGESix minutes.

RUSCHWhats the plan?

WILMETTEThe fleet will fall back, covered by the Virginia , while the Abenakifollows us to intercept the enemy vessels.

RUSCHPlan?

WILMETTELay down an offense fire as we approach with the pulse lasers, and usethe stream layers to cut apart the Ragnarok while picking at whateverValhalla is closest.

PECKThat way we let Virginia do its thing and provide cover for both of us.


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WILMETTEThe Aquaticas have been getting a Hammerhead package of their own, butits 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.

ALRIDGEEnemy fleet four minutes away. Were at the canyon.

MARTIN(OS)Abenaki signals ready.

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

ALRIDGESir, Virginia is breaking away from the convoy!!

WILMETTEWhat?

At Sensors, Bauer checks her readings.

BAUERConfirmed sir.

WILMETTEMartin, get me. . .

MARTINHailing them, sir.(a beat)No response.

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

ALRIDGETheyve accelerated ETA two minutes ten seconds.

PECKWhat do we do?

WILMETTEMs. Martin, try them again.

MARTIN(a beat)


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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 fairlyshallow canyon. In the distance we can see the glow of Virginia sengines as she speeds away.

END ACT ONE

ACT TWO

FADE IN

EXT. CONVOY

Virginia speeds away from us as before.


Wilmette stands in front of the Command Plex, hands on hips, watchingthe Virginia sail away. After a few seconds he abruptly about-faces andreturns to his seat.

WILMETTEMs. Martin, get the Abenaki on the horn and tell them to stay put andwatch the fleet well take care of this.

MARTIN(OS)Aye sir.

WILMETTEMr. Wong, full ahead. Were faster than Virginia if shes going toignore us, thats fine, but I want to be right next to her when shemeets those PMR ships.

WONG(OS)Aye sir.

PECKYou know what hes doing?

WILMETTEI believe were being bated he wants to see if I have enough balls tofollow him into battle or if Ill hang back and try to stop him. Hesabout to get a big surprise.

PECKDoes he think youd let him go in alone?

WILMETTEI think more than anything he wants to screw up the mission and blameit on me. Too bad I wont let him.(to Alridge)


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Range?

ALRIDGEThirteen hundred klicks, ETA forty-two seconds. Enemy vessels ETA, oneminute.

WILMETTE

Arm all weapons.

RUSCHWeapons hot.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

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


Wilmette studies his display intently as Alridge checks her readings.After a few seconds he looks up and his gaze meets Pecks, and he giveshis worried first officer a reassuring smile.

PECKI just hope Engler knows what hes doing.

WILMETTEThats one thing I can count on hes stupid, but he isnt stupid.(Peck furrows his brow)Engler is as good as they say he is when he has a cool head, and heisnt going to risk his crew and ship just to piss me off, no matterwhat he thinks of me.

Peck nods as Alridge speaks.

ALRIDGEETA with PMR ships fifteen seconds. Were in firing range.(a beat)Enemy weapons hot. Theyre firing.

WILMETTE(steely)Evasive.

EXT. PMR FLEET

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

CUT TO


Wilmette stands in front of his desk, pissed off. Engler is on thecommunications screen, apparently unfazed.


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WILMETTEId love to know what the hell you were thinking if I was even remotelyconcerned why you were ignoring orders!

ENGLERWe were just tending to business. . .

WILMETTEWithout orders!(running his hand through his hair, calming himself a bit)Look Walther, I know this stunt was just an extension of this pissingcontest you seem to insist we get into, but. . .

ENGLER(angry)You dont get it, do you? Youre a disgrace James a disgrace to thatuniform and that chair. Defiant should have gone to someone who didntget his crew killed. . .

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

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

ENGLERPerhaps, perhaps not. I can handle this mission Virginia is just asstrong as when Maryland was still above water.

WILMETTEOf that I have no doubt.(sighing)Walther, Ive figured out that I can yell at you til Im blue in theface and it wont do a damned bit of good, so Im just going to ask youto promise me that you wont get anyone killed. Were on the same teamhere.

ENGLERI can promise you that I wont put anyone at risk, but Im afraid werefar from the same team.(before Wilmette can speak)Engler out.

The Virginia s seal appears and the screen goes dead. Wilmette runs hishand 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 tableoccupied by Peck, Rusch, and Alridge on one side and Landers and Piperon the other. They are in conversation as they eat, and as they speakwe notice Rusch avoids looking at Landers.

PECKI dont like it one bit. I dont care what kind of beef you have with


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the CO if hes the guy in charge, you follow his lead. Period.

PIPERI agree sure there are extreme cases when the guy might be a totalnut job, but those are the exception. Maybe Im biased God knows myobjectivity is crap when it comes to my friends but James is far fromincompetent.

LANDERSHey, I dont particularly like the guy, but I agree. He knows what hesdoing.(a beat)Sometimes I think hes a little too. . .extreme when it comes todealing with the PMR, but thats bias, and everybody I dont care whoyou are has bias.

Alridges gaze hits the table as Rusch meets her eyes, and Peck andPiper notice the air getting a bit thick.

PECKAnyway, Im sure the Captain will deal with Engler in his own way.

PIPERYeah, or mop the floor with him. James isnt known for suffering foolsgladly.

WILMETTE(OS)Not unless I have to.

Wilmette appears on Pipers left, tray in hands.

WILMETTEThis seat taken?

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

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

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

RUSCHThere was that time in February too. You cant forget that.

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

WILMETTE(cutting him off with a wry grin)My uniform and I remember that very well Barry, thank you.


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ALRIDGEAt least Im not standing around and taking shots from Engler.

WILMETTEHow 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, almostmoving to get up.

RUSCH(angry)Damnit Laurie!

However, before she can move to pursue, Wilmette lays a gentle hand onRuschs arm.

WILMETTELet her go she has to find her own path.

PIPERWhy do you put up with that?

We see just a hint of real fright on Wilmettes face. He sighs deeply,shaking his head.

WILMETTEI dont know Barry. Maybe I feel that I have to that I owe her that.Maybe I just dont know how to tell her not to. I dont know, and rightnow Im not going to deal with it.

PECKMaybe you should. . .

WILMETTE(snapping)I said I wont deal with it!

The table goes silent, and everyone present, including Wilmette, looksshocked. The captain shakes his head slowly, as if saying I cantbelieve I did that. After a few moments, Wilmette finally speaks.

WILMETTE(quietly)Im sorry everyone. Im sorry. . .

PECKNo apology needed sir.

Wilmette turns to Piper and the engineer lays a gentle hand onWilmettes arm and shakes his head. Wilmette nods, grateful, and Ruschthoughtfully leans forward.

RUSCHSir? If I may ask, whats happened to you?

WILMETTE


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

Grins all around. Rusch shakes her head.

RUSCHNo sir I mean, you seem more. . .free. At peace. I mean. . .

PECKI think what Carrie means, sir, is that you seem more relaxed more atease. Sure youre still going gung ho for the PMR, but youre more atease now.

WILMETTE(nodding in understanding)Im more at peace now. Ive settled back into the captains chair, andIm comfortable with my crew, and I think, for the most part, theyrecomfortable with me. Sure weve had our problems our rotten apples but weve weeded them out.(a beat)And Ive realized some things. Im sure you understand if I dont gointo them, but Im. . .well, Im doing better than I was six monthsago. Im glad its been good for you.

RUSCHIts been good for you, sir, and were happy about that. I have a greatdeal 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 Wilmettenods 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 Ihope 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 thecolony.

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

INT. ALRIDGEs CABIN DEFIANT DSV

Alridge stands in front of her closet rifling through her uniformshirts. After a few seconds there is a light knock on the door.

ALRIDGEIts open!

Rusch quietly opens the door and enters, standing wordlessly behindAlridge who plucks a shirt with a large stain on it from the rack.After a few seconds she realizes her visitor hasnt spoken, and she


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turns and smiles at Rusch. The smile isnt returned.

ALRIDGEHi there. Whats going on?

RUSCHCaptain Wilmette.

Alridge darkens, dropping the uniform on the bed.

ALRIDGEDont even start.

RUSCHIts not right!

ALRIDGE(raising her voice)You think I care whats right? My sister is dead is that right? Is it?

RUSCHIve let you pull this crap for seven months now, but its got to stop.

ALRIDGEWhats your problem with Landers?

Ruschs face now darkens, and she becomes visibly more animated.

RUSCHThats none of your business.

ALRIDGEYou see youre mad at him and you wont tell me why.

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

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

RUSCHIm not going to tell you.

ALRIDGEWhy?

RUSCHYou wouldnt listen to me when I wanted to talk to you about John.

ALRIDGEThat was three weeks ago!! I said I was sorry.

RUSCHThat isnt good enough. You want to tell me Captain Wilmette is guilty,thats fine. But he isnt anymore guilty than you are.


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And with this Rusch storms out, leaving Alridge with a very puzzledexpression on her face.

ALRIDGEWhat the hell was that about?

CUT TO


Wilmette is seated behind his desk signing reports and talking toAdmiral Easton who is on the screen.

WILMETTEIts just a pain in the ass really nothing to worry about too much.

EASTONAre you sure James?

WILMETTE(fixing him with a look)Would I say so if I wasnt?

EASTONUsually not, but you might be trying to handle this one for personalreasons.(a beat)You have a bad habit of taking this crap personally. You dont havemany weaknesses, but one is that youre as damned good as everyonethinks you are and you think you need to prove it to the whole damnworld. You dont if Englers out of control, tell me so I canintervene.

WILMETTEHes not out of control George. Hes frustrating the hell out of mebecause hes acting so damned unprofessional pigheaded, stubborn, andnot afraid to tell me to go to hell.

EASTONSame old Walther Engler.

WILMETTEIn a way, except when he told me to go to hell before I was just afreshman captain and we were talking in private about strategy. All ofthem Engler, Hudson, Carmichael, Stevens had trouble with me untilthey figured out that I knew what I was doing. But this is personal.

EASTONMaybe its because youve come so far and left him in the dust. Hesgood James, but he was always too greedy for his own good. He wantedpower the fact that he was saving the world always came second.(a beat)Bottom line if he does anything too stupid, call me and Ill takecare of it. Until then, watch your back make sure he doesnt stick aknife in it.

WILMETTEI will George Ive already considered that.


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(a beat)How do things look around there?

EASTONThe Pacific is quiet today a couple sightings and reports here andthere, but no attacks. seaQuest is running some errand for Hitchcock I think theyre impressing a bunch of Senators or something, showing

them how well were 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 ofMaranna Colony a large five domed complex along the bottom of theocean. The fleet is right behind, and the various ships move out toform a ring around the ruined structure.

CLOSE ON STARBOARD DOCKING BAYS

The doors of Docking Bays One through Three iris open, Dragonfliesemerging from each one. As we pan forward, fighters shoot from theirtubes, providing escort.

INT. DRAGONFLY CONTROL CABIN

Landers and Piper pilot the lead Dragonfly, Landers in the pilots seatand Piper co-piloting on his left. The curtain to the back cabin isclosed. Landers is decked out in a camouflage combat uniform, Piper inhis blue uniform.

PIPERSo, you dont have any clue why shes pissed?

LANDERSNot a one, and its bugging me.

PIPERWhy dont you ask her?

LANDERSIt would be inappropriate.(a beat)I do know what Im guessing her new assistant said something badabout me.


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PIPERYou know her?

LANDERSI screwed her. She was one of my famous one-night stands. I neverthought Gina had a problem with me, but put a few years distance in arelationship even a casual one and peoples perspectives change

real quick.

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

LANDERSTalk to Alridge Id appreciate if you would. I would, ordinarily, butI dont want to aggravate the situation especially when I dont knowthe rumor.

PIPERUnderstood.(peering out the window)My God look at it.

OVER PIPERS SHOULDER

And through the window of the Control Cabin, the blackened ruins ofMaranna Colony fills the view. Twisted pieces of debris clank againstthe Dragonflys hull.

PIPERIts a miracle anyone survived.

LANDERSThis is going to be grisly.(a beat)If youll update Defiant Ill move us in for docking.

Landers gently pulls the stick left and Piper taps the communicationspanel.

PIPERWing One to Hawk. Come in Hawk.


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

PECKGo ahead Wing One.

INT. DRAGONFLY CONTROL CABIN

PIPERWere approaching the main airlock the place is a mess. Still noresponse from anyone inside?

PECK(filtered)Negative.


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PECKAs 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)Were almost to the airlock. Well call you when we get the survivorssecure for transport.

PECKVery 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.

PECKBridge to Captain.


Wilmette is seated behind his desk reading and signing reports. Hedoesnt look up as he speaks.

WILMETTEWilmette here go ahead.

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

WILMETTENot like we expected any, but its still nice to hear that.(he stops writing and looks up)Any more lifesigns?


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

There is silence for a moment before Wilmette speaks.

WILMETTE(filtered)Tell me when theyre done with the evacuation, and get Captain Engleron the horn.


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PECKAye sir.(a beat)Sir. . .?

His voice trails off.

WILMETTE(filtered)Yes John?

PECKNothing sir. Ms. Martin will have Engler for you in a moment.


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

WILMETTEVery well. Wilmette out.

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

PECK(filtered)Captain Engler is waiting.

WILMETTEPut him through.

Engler appears on the screen. The captain is seated in his office onthe Virginia , his desk devoid of adornment.

ENGLERIt seems that the evacuation is proceeding well. The teams have justentered the colony; the civilian vessels are doing a marvelous jobkeeping their place.

WILMETTE(slightly frowning)Were fortunate that its been quiet.

ENGLERFortunate for whom, I cant decide. Im sure your ship could take themon well, as could mine. Wed put up a good fight, Im sure.

WILMETTELay your cards out Walther whats up your ass?

ENGLERYou James. Its simple; while you are commanding the flagship of thePacific Fleet and our lead weapon against the PMR, I am in command of athirteen year-old battlewagon, putzing around the Atlantic like anerrand boy.

WILMETTEYou have a good ship Walther the Aquaticas are still a formidableforce. Sure Defiant s more high profile, but the Aquaticas are the


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backbone of the U.E.O. fleet again. We need them. . .

ENGLERYou miss the point James. You never did it for glory you did itbecause it was the right thing. If the PMR threw everything they had atus and you died, youd be content to go down fighting. You make adifference, but you dont care how many newspapers you sell.

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

ENGLERYoure damned right I was and a good one too. I made a difference tooJames. I didnt make the splash you and Ford and George did, but I didmy part served with honor and I get a desk. That young fool DuCantiis an admiral now; where are my stripes?

WILMETTEIm not an admiral. Sure I have Defiant , but its probably going to bea very frosty day in hell before I go anywhere else. To tell the truth,I wouldnt want to.

ENGLER(angry)Give me a break. You cant honestly tell me that you dont feel trapped that you dont feel like youre stuck on that ship, nowhere to go.

WILMETTEIm afraid I cant Walther. Sure, a lot of people dont like me, butIm making a difference here, and unlike you, Im content to sit andwait awhile see what life brings me. I thought my life was over here I was, busted to lieutenant, every place I went people hated meand made no great secret of it.(a beat)Then I finally found a ship where I was accepted, and a friend wholobbied for me and got me this ship. She believed in me hell, many ofthem believed in me again, and here I am, rebuilding everything I lost.Itll be a hard road, and I might not make it all the way, but its astart.

ENGLERIm pleased that youve had a revelation James I really am. Butyoull excuse me if Im not as impressed. You see, I havent got asecond chance. All Ive got is a thirteen year-old ship and a tickingclock, and every tick reminds me that Im not going anywhere.

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

WILMETTEI imagine that itll take the full hour we predicted for the team tosweep the colony and evacuate the survivors to the civilian transports.When that is done, Defiant and Abenaki will trade places, and well doa sweep of the area before the fleet sets course back to Pearl.

ENGLER(almost with levity)Sounds like a plan to me.


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(a beat)James, I dont resent you. I resent what you represent.

WILMETTE(almost annoyed)What is that Walther?

ENGLERWeakness.

WILMETTENever call the man whos 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 tohis desk.

TIME FADE TO

EXT. MARANNA COLONY

A number of Dragonflies move between the shattered colony and thecivilian transports.

INT. CENTRAL CORRIDOR DEFIANT DSV

Rusch moves down the wide passageway looking rather nervous. She pausesin front of Pecks cabin door, straightens her uniform, then knockstentatively.

After a few seconds the door opens, Peck sticks his head out and beamswhen 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. PECKS CABIN DEFIANT DSV

A standard officers cabin, one wall dominated by a large highdefinition vid screen and a DVD player, DVD storage bins on eitherside. The bed is unmade, a uniform shirt is draped over the bathroomdoor, and two civilian shirts and a pair of jeans are draped over thecloset door. Not too messy, but messy enough.

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

PECK


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Like the digs?

RUSCH(a chuckle)Half the time my cabin looks worse than this, so I hardly have room totalk.(a beat, and she frowns)

I hope you dont mind me dropping in. . .

PECKHey, I missed you at supper. We all did even the Captain.

RUSCHHe sat with you?

PECKYeah, and Lauren didnt. I noticed her come in, take one look at him,and walk right back out.

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

PECKAt least she didnt make trouble.

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

PECKShes had it coming hes getting fed up. Hes finally healing Ivenoticed that the past few weeks, since he got back from shore leave inDenver and I dont think hes going to let anyone or anything get inthe way of that. Hes not different in personality at least not onthe Bridge but. . .well, he is different. More confident.

RUSCHIts a good change.

PECKIts a great change.(a beat)Is Lauren bugging you?

RUSCHWell, in a way. I. . .Id usually come to her about something likethis, but she and I right now. . .(a beat)When that Valhalla went down a few months ago and she went all CaptainAhab 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 Im afraid shell do it again.

PECKWhat is it?

RUSCH(angry)Landers. That son of a bitch Landers.


31/51

PECK(surprised and concerned)Did he do something to you?

RUSCHNo, but. . .Gina told me about him. Hes a piece of trash! I mean, hes

got us all fooled.

PECKWhat do you mean? Whats he done?

RUSCHGina told me that she knew him from high school. He. . .he got hisgirlfriend pregnant and he was going to marry her, but he skipped outon her and joined the U.E.O. Thats why he joined the U.E.O. He used her!

PECKIs she reliable Gina?

RUSCHI dont. . .I dont know. I guess so she slept with him.

PECKWhen?

RUSCHWhen she was in high school apparently he slept around a lot. Hesscum John thats all I know. His fianc had to have an abortionbecause he wouldnt support her.

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

PECKDid you ask Landers about this?

RUSCHNo, I havent. I was going to confront him, but we went toBattlestations before I could get to him in the Rec Room. Does itmatter?

PECKHell yes it matters!(a beat as she fixes him with a glare)Look Carrie, I understand where youre coming from. You have a goodreason to hate users like youve been told Landers is, but thats thething. You were told that you didnt ask him. I dont know him allthat well he seems a bit closed but Id suggest you confront him.He seems to be a straight arrow; if someones spreading rumors abouthim and hes innocent hed probably like to know. If hes not, at leastyoull know the truth.

Rusch visibly relaxes and rises, giving Peck a hug.

RUSCHThanks John. I. . .I was thinking the same thing, but I needed to hearit from someone I trusted.


32/51


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Would you mind if we talk in your office?

PIPERThat depends on if youre going to yell at me for the .02 percentmisalignment 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 wespeak. I told Ms. Bauer about it, and she said that it shouldnt be aproblem.

ALRIDGEActually, I came to talk about a personal matter.

PIPER(gesturing toward the back of Engineering)Lets talk then.

INT. PIPERS OFFICE DEFIANT DSV

Much smaller than Wilmettes, though it still has plenty of room. Onewall has a couch and coffee table, a large engine piece of some sortbolted to the center, and the walls are dominated by photos ofsubmarines and classic cars.

Pipers desk is clean, everything in a neat stack. An empty Styrofoamcup of coffee makes its way into the garbage as Piper takes a seat,Alridge plunking in the right visitor chair.

ALRIDGESorry to bother you with this, but its about Landers and Carrie.

PIPER(anticipating)Mike doesnt know what shes mad about, and neither do I. We were kindof hoping youd know.

ALRIDGE(sighing)I wish I did, but shes closed herself off to me. Shes still mad aboutwhen I brushed her off. . .

PIPERWhen was that?

ALRIDGEWhen I very stupidly insisted on investigating that sunken Valhallathree weeks ago.(a beat)She wanted to talk about Commander Peck whats going on with him and I kind of brushed her off. Ignored her, actually. I barely realizedshe was talking to me.

PIPER


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Did you apologize?

ALRIDGEProfusely.(he gives her a look)Hey, I might be bullheaded, but I do know when Im wrong.(a beat, quieter)

Most of the time.

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

PIPERLook Lauren, we havent exactly been friends, but I respect you youre damned good at your job, and I can respect why you feel the wayyou do about James. But youre blunt, stubborn, and sometimes you dontthink with all your brain, which can get you in a lot of trouble. ButCarrie is your friend your best friend. Shell come around. She lovesyou deeply thats why shes so mad at you.(Alridges eyes meet his)She thinks youre hurting yourself. A lot of us do, and shes worriedsick about you. So, go make sure she knows that shes worrying aboutnothing.

Alridge nods, thankful.

ALRIDGEThanks Barry. I. . .

PIPERNo 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.

PIPERLauren?

ALRIDGE(turning)Yes Barry?

PIPERAre you hurting yourself?

Pain flashes through Alridges face, and she just watches him, unableto speak. Wordlessly, she turns and departs.


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

WILMETTE. . .but its pretty bad only about a hundred or so survivors. Wesplit them into thirds, so theyll have plenty of room to mourn.(calling out)Come in!(Landers enters as Wilmette continues)


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Thats 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.

EASTONWell, weve 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. Im not sure if you two havemet.

LANDERSActually sir, we have.(turning toward Easton)Good to see you again Admiral. I hope youve been well.

EASTONVery 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 wasbeing built. He and I worked together for. . .over nine months.

WILMETTEIs 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 havent told me yet?

EASTONI dont 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.

LANDERSWell, the operation went pretty quickly I think quicker than any ofus expected. We got the survivors off last count was one hundredseven people out of eight hundred.(a beat)It wasnt an attack it was a massacre. The survivors have plenty ofconflicting reports, but it sounds like nine PMR ships three or fourof them Ragnaroks came out of nowhere and blasted the colony. The


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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 theyre discussing.

WILMETTE

Damage to the colony?

LANDERSBesides extensive its a mess, sir. Mr. Piper did some lookingaround, gave the place a rather thorough once-over, and though he saidhe didnt have time to really do a good assessment, he said it wasprobably totaled.

WILMETTEAnd Barrys opinion is as good as any youll get.

EASTON(nodding)From everything youve sent me, thats what I expect the Yotanka willfind when she gets there later tomorrow.(a beat)Whats your plan?

WILMETTEWell, Engler suggested we get out of here tonight, and Captain Michaelsagreed. And so did I were sitting here with three civiliantransports that wouldnt do too well in a fight. Id rather not waitfor the PMR to show up and start shooting.

LANDERSEven though Im not a tactician, Id say that its pretty sound.Honestly, theres nothing left to protect.

EASTONWell then, pack up and get out of there.

WILMETTEWell get underway after this.(to Landers)Thank you Mr. Landers that will be all.

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

LANDERSIt was good to see you again Admiral.

EASTONYou too Mr. Landers. Stop by sometime and Ill buy you a drink.

LANDERSId like that, sir. Thank you.

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

WILMETTE


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(grim)I was waiting for this.

EASTONSo was I.

WILMETTE

Think itll finally wake people up remind them who were dealing with?

EASTONWe 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 rightbehind.


Landers walks through the corridor out of uniform and pauses in frontof Ruschs door, knocking.

RUSCH(muffled through door)Come in!

Landers opens the door and enters.

INT. RUSCHS CABIN DEFIANT DSV

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

LANDERSCarolyn 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 youve come to ask why I hate at you.

LANDERSWell, no one seems to know, and I wanted to know if I did something toyou.

RUSCH(mad)No, you didnt do something to me, but youre a piece of trash. Youknow that?

LANDERS(taken aback)


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Whoa, whoa, whoa! What did I do to you?

RUSCHNot to me.(a beat)I had a talk with Gina.

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

RUSCHIm sure you didnt.

LANDERSWhat 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)Im sure you didnt.

LANDERSOh no, no. You arent going to blame me for that.

RUSCHYou abandoned her!!! Did you know she had an abortion?

LANDERS(stopped dead in his tracks)She did?

RUSCHYes, she did!

LANDERSIts not my fault!

RUSCHYes it is!

LANDERSCarrie, I was sick ! Dont you understand? I was sick. I had to go seesomeone had counseling.(a beat)


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She was the best thing that ever happened to me, and I walked out onher. Damn it, I walked out on her, and I hate myself every minute forit, but Im sorry. Im sorry for her.

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

LANDERSNo Carrie, I dont know, and I thank God.

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

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

RUSCH(quiet, tears falling)You dont know what he did to me what that felt like.

LANDERS(setting a gentle hand on her shoulder)No, I dont, but I can try.

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

INT. WILMETTES CABIN DEFIANT DSV

Wilmette is laying in bed in a t-shirt and his uniform pants readingAmerican Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis when the intercom beeps. Heinserts his bookmark and taps the button on his nightstand.

WILMETTEWilmette here.

BAUER(filtered)Sorry to bother you sir, but the Abenaki is getting some strangereadings 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, were getting readings enemy attack fleet dead ahead, ETA sixminutes.


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Any objections?

ENGLERIn this case, none. I may be bitter but Im not stupid.

WILMETTE(a slight grin)

O.K. then. Abenaki will hang back to defend the fleet while Virginiaand Defiant take point. Its simple dont get killed. Weve got sevenhundred people at the colony behind us lets try to keep it at that.

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

MICHAELSI just hope youre as good as they say you are.

WILMETTEI try. Youll do fine youve got a hell of a ship.

MICHAELS(with a chuckle)Itll do. Abenaki out.

The screen goes dead, and Wilmettes smile lingers for a few secondsbefore disappearing. After a moment hes all business. Behind him Peckand Alridge walk onto the Bridge, Piper right behind. All of them arein uniform.

Peck approaches Wilmette, standing behind his captain Alridge and Piperstand 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. Weve got an enemy attack force on its way, ETA. . .

BAUERThree minutes, twelve seconds.

WILMETTEThere are three Ragnaroks and four Valhallas, and our reinforcementswill be another five minutes off. Virginia and Defiant will protect thefleet 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.

WILMETTEMs. Alridge, Ms. Bauer has Operations for this one. I think well needyour expertise leading our fighters.

ALRIDGE(with a nod)Aye sir. Orders?


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WILMETTEWatch our ass.

Alridge grimly nods and moves to leave. After she is gone Wilmettechecks his console, looks at Peck and Bauer, both of whom give him anod that theyre ready.

WILMETTEBattlestations.

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

PIPERDamage control ready.

Lt. Gina Turner is at Weapons.

TURNERWeapons hot.

WILMETTEThis your first battle aboard Defiant ?

TURNERYes sir.

WILMETTEYou ready?

TURNERYes sir, I am.

Wilmette nods, turning back to his station.

BAUEREnemy fleet ETA, one minute.

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

BAUEREnemy vessels powering up weapons.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

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

CLOSE ON STARBOARD FIGHTER TUBES

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



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The atmosphere is tense as the Battlestations lights flash.

WILMETTEETA 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, closerand 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 secondRagnarok opening up on Virginia .

WILMETTE(VO)Evasive! Fire at will.

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


The Bridge rocks from the impacts.

WILMETTEDamage report!

PIPERDamage to the first and second layers.

WILMETTEStatus of enemy ship?

BAUERTheyve taken some solid hits near their bow and a couple aft, buttheyre 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 lightsoverhead explodes in a shower of sparks, making everyone duck, and theSensors station, currently unoccupied, blows outward.

BAUER(OS)


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Sir, the SoftScan Array took a direct hit efficiency down forty-fivepercent.

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

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

TURNERThats how.

The ship rocks again, not quite as badly.

WILMETTEHelm, would you please keep them off our ass?

HELM(OS)Aye sir trying.

WILMETTEMs. Turner, prepare torpedoes and pulse lasers. When we come about, Iwant you to tear that Ragnarok apart.

TURNER(resolute)Aye sir.

WILMETTEHelm, prepare to come about on my mark. Give Ms. Turner an optimumfiring position, and make sure we dont get hit.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

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

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

Defiant , despite being damaged, makes a graceful arc around and opensup on the Ragnarok. It opens fire on them, but they manage to dodge allbut two of the shots. This time, Defiant s pulse lasers and torpedoescut deep into the Ragnaroks hull, and it begins to go down, explosiveout gassing visible through two of the hull breaches.


Bauer checks her console, then grins.

BAUERWe got them! The Ragnarok is sinking to the bottom, and lifeboats arebeing released.

WILMETTE


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

BAUERTaking heavy fire. A Valhalla joined the Ragnarok. Theyre holdingtogether, but by a thread. Our ETA is a minute and a half.

PECKThose 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 beinghammered by the PMR vessels while holding off fire from the transportssurprisingly well. The Abenaki is a powerful ship thats just barelybeen outgunned.


The atmosphere is tense as Bauers console begins to beep lightly. Shechecks it.

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

SOWARDSSir, were getting a signal from Captain Engler.

Wilmette looks up in surprise.

WILMETTEOn screen.

Engler appears on the main viewer.

WILMETTEWhat the hell are you doing?

ENGLERThe Baltimore signaled us all clear to assist the Abenaki . From thelook of it, youll need the help.

WILMETTE(a slight nod)It would be appreciated. Whats your ETA?

ENGLEROne minute twelve.

WILMETTESee you then.


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

WILMETTEMr. Piper, damage report.

PIPERMultiple direct hits to the starboard side. Weve lost most of theSoftScan Array and the Graphica on that side, and though we dont haveany hull breaches, the damage went right down to the third layer.

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

PECKWere getting our ass kicked.

WILMETTETurner! What the hell. . .

The Bridge rocks again, and part of Bauers console blows outward. Shedives out of her chair to avoid the flying metal.

PIPER(OS)There went SoftScan!

TURNER(going white)Ive lost all targeting!

Wilmette rises and leans over Bauers chair, helping her to her feet.She has blood flowing from a nasty gash above her right eyebrow, andshe winces as she touches it. She nods to Wilmette that shell be allright.

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

TURNER(OS)Sir! The viewer!

Everyone looks up as the Virginia , somewhat damaged, streaks across themain viewer.

EXT. DEFIANT DSV

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

The Ragnarok doesnt back down however it moves to go around thenow-burning Virginia . The Aquatica struggles to intercept it before itcan make its way around, but the Ragnarok gets a couple shots off, both


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of which tear into Defiant .

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

The PMR vessels engines kick in full throttle, but it is no use Virginia stabs into the enemy vessel as Defiant and Abenaki begin toslowly limp away while Virginia and the Ragnarok just hang thereburning.


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

SOWARDSSir! Theres a message coming in from Virginia .

WILMETTE(shocked)On screen.

Engler appears on the main viewer, his battered Bridge aflame behindhim. 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 largegash.

ENGLER(weak)James. . .

WILMETTEGo ahead.

ENGLERI just. . .I just wanted you to know why.(he coughs painfully)Its not you. I wanted to let you burn, but we need your ship.

Wilmettes face is a mask of conflicting emotions pain, rage, sorrow.Pity surfaces.

WILMETTEI feel sorry for you Walther youre 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 upin a giant explosion. The Virginia goes with her, the fireball from thetwo ships expanding to fill the screen as we

END ACT FOUR


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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 thedocks behind them. The noontime sun is high in the sky over the AdminBuilding up the hill.

SUPERIMPOSE: THE NEXT DAY

INT. ALRIDGES CABIN DEFIANT DSV

Alridge is laying on the bed in her civvies reading the latest issue ofAmazing Stories when there is a knock at the door. She doesnt look upas she calls out.

ALRIDGECome in!

Rusch enters, looking rather timid.

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

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

ALRIDGEHey Carrie, its O.K. Really Ive been worried why you did it. I knowI screwed up, but. . .

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

ALRIDGESome 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.

ALRIDGEIts O.K. Carrie. Its O.K.

Hold on their hug, then

CUT TO


Rusch emerges from Alridges cabin, her eyes a little red, and she


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comes face-to-face with Landers who pauses to speak with her.

LANDERSYou O.K.?

RUSCH(smiling slightly and nodding)

Yeah I will be. I got everything worked out with Laurie she forgaveme. I knew she would, but. . .(her eyes meet Landers, and her voice is sincere)Look, again, Im sorry. I really, really am sorry.

LANDERSHey, after what happened to you. . .well, you told me enough that Iknow, you deserve to have some slack. What happened to you is horrible I mean really terrible and I imagine its still hard to live with.You made a judgment, and it was the wrong one, but it was a validassumption based on the info you had, as Piper might say.(a beat as they both smile)Bottom line, were clear, and I really look forward to being yourfriend.

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 entranceand make their way down the stairs.

WILMETTEWhile I was waiting Piper called he told me that theyve got thereplacement panels for the SoftScan installed, and they hope to havethem running later today.

EASTONIm just glad Defiant didnt have to be drydocked. Thats about thelast thing we need right now. With Abenaki in the docks, and Virginialost. . .

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

WILMETTEIts too bad about Walther.

EASTONIt happens. Sure, its a tragedy, but dont try to tell me Walther wasanything more than a glory hound that happened to be a great captain.We could have used him, but well do just fine without him.

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

EASTONJust a lesson for both of us, my friend. Walther let himself get old;more than anything Walther wanted your spot in the history books hewasnt content with his.


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WILMETTEHe wasnt content with making a difference.

EASTONFew of us are. You and I are uncommon; I hope thats not news to you.

WILMETTE(with a smile)It isnt not by a long shot.(a beat)And now we have to be noble again. The PMR reminded a whole lot ofpeople just how dangerous they are.

EASTONThey took out a U.E.O. ship, may have taken out another if what Imhearing about the Abenaki is correct, and Maranna Colony will have tobe totally rebuilt. We got our ass kicked hard today.

WILMETTECorrey proved to us that hes still the same man we faced six yearsago. A bad situation just got worse. The only question is now, how dowe cope?

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

EASTONCuthberts sound good for lunch?

WILMETTE(setting a hand on his friends shoulder)Sounds great George.

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

THE END

Copyright 2001 Defiant Editorial.

Documents

Defiant: 105 - Echoes of Past Transgressions