Lyssa Thorne's
Science Fiction Novels
Double Dragon Ebooks
WARNING:
CONTENT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR GENERAL AUDIENCES DUE TO EXPLICIT SEXUAL CONTENT.
“CRYSTALIS”
EPISODE 80 – LAST ATTACK
BY: LYSSA THORNE
The Astrisi fighter planes dove toward the pirates and opened fire.
PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo changed forms, tracked where Beken was, touched the ship then grabbed a light beam. He changed beams many times until he dropped them back into normal space.
EXT. SPACE
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Vizha’i and Saili forces, deploy. Tauians, this is Nikklo. I’ve returned to finish what I started. Rise up and fight the oppression we’ve endured too long. Marc, the ship is yours. I trust your judgment. Tarek and I are going to confront Beken.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
I won’t let you down.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I know you won’t.
Tarek appeared beside him.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
I'm ready.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Let's do this.
Nikklo touched Tarek’s shoulder, tracked Beken’s mental signature and phased.
PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo landed in a large crystal room.
INT. EZRON'S PRISM SHIP - CONTINUOUS
Ezron whirled around with his aura frenzied.
Beken stood up with his aura dancing excitedly around him.
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
Oh, look, Ezron, a family reunion.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
We meet again but this isn’t a pleasant visit, Beken.
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
I hear you’ve been pretending to be a Great Forger to some soft shell rodents. Really, Tarek? How quaint.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
It’s been more pleasant than to work for you.
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
Since you’re so fond of your rodents, I could promise you can keep your pets alive, if you both come back to work for me. I have your precious wife and baby, Nikklo. So sorry she turned on you and killed your rodent form. I could even stop the suicide protocol in her so you can wake her again since you’re so fond of her- that is, if you promise to become my ultimate weapon you promised me you would be if I gave you the ability to move on your own. I was very disappointed when you reneged on our deal and ran off on your own.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
What? I didn’t work out with you to get this body!
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
You must still be in the process of remembering because you did. Tarek, you didn’t tell him you refused his first request for a body?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
You left that detail out? I’m really getting tired of this!
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
On the shores of Misipatasutisga you told me I should have refused your request. Yes, I did refuse your request but you were so desperate to be free of your fixed orbit. I thought you were too powerful to be free roaming. Beken sidestepped me and made a counter offer that he would force me to give you your body in exchange for you being his super weapon. He told you he wouldn’t call on you often. You were so desperate, you accepted. Beken kidnapped Rakul and the kids to force me into making your body. In order for me to make that body, I had to merge aura with Rakul to impregnate her so I could modify the nodule to enclose your pulsar within. I agreed to it but as soon as I merged with Rakul, I astral phased her and our other children to a Prism ship and we fled. I modified the nodule while we fled those who pursued us and enclosed you in that form but I impaired the interface so that when you woke in that form, you would have amnesia and forget you were a pulsar. We crashed on the humanoid world and you were raised by the humanoid family and I had to search for you for thirteen years. We were found again, forced to return to Tauia and you began your fight for freedom. Beken decided to destroy your body. You destroyed Tauia. I took the pieces of your body and fled to Sailia. That is the whole truth, Nikklo. Now that you’re completely awake and more experienced with living your own life, make your own decision! Cherna and Rakulinea's life is depending on it!
Nikklo’s anger drained from him.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Cherna, she doesn’t deserve to be treated this way.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
No, she doesn’t. Ezron used a coercer to aggravate Cherna so she would kill your Saili body. He forced you to return to your Tauian body so you could have access to your full power. Now Beken intends to keep her and Rakulinea prisoner to force you to do his bidding.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I was happy to be Sannaro, bastard! I was happy to forget what I was! You assholes just had to wake me!
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
We had a deal. Deals have to be paid back, Nikklo. So we drew you out.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Yeah, you did and I’m pissed as hell!
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
Did you understand what he said, Ezron?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
No, but I don’t like his aura. Calm down, Nikklo.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I will not calm down, rapist!
Nikklo shot a magnetic wave at Ezron.
Ezron flew through the air and slammed into the wall.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
You fathered a baby girl, asshole, and Cherna's carrying her cause I couldn’t carry her! It wasn’t bad enough for you to tell me I have female parts, you had to get me fucking pregnant to slam your morbid point through me! Beken, you had your guards dismember me because I wouldn’t blow up a planet for you. You just couldn’t accept that the planet I blew was the one you controlled. Now I’m here to finish what I started.
Nikklo held his hands before his chest and willed the pulsar to emerge. It glowed brightly as it hovered above his fingers.
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
Nikklo put yourself back into your shell.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
No.
Ezron phased to Nikklo and impaled him through the midriff into the wall again.
Nikklo's crystal shell shuddered in pain but he forced himself to remain in control of his energy and hover his true form before his face.
Arcas leapt into the air from Nikklo’s shoulder, dove into Ezron and sliced his arms from his body.
Ezron shrieked.
The energy crackled and disappeared.
Tarek tackled Ezron and drove him to the floor.
Nikklo released a moderate gravity wave that blasted in concentric waves from him. He inverted the wave and pulled it back toward him.
Beken looked around in alarm.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Enjoy eternity in a black hole, bastard.
The crystal prism ship shattered around them and flew inward toward an expanding orb of darkness.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Tarek, get back to the ship! All fighters, retreat, quickest pace! I’m grabbing Cherna!
Nikklo pushed the pulsar orb back into his chest, saw a crystal that flew outward, grabbed the light it gave off and traveled to Cherna.
Cherna was flailing in the void. Amazingly, she was encased in a crystal shell as if the baby had formed herself around her surrogate mother to preserve both their lives.
He wrapped his arms around her waist and launched himself away from the expanding darkness.
INT. AMBRIKA'S VIZHA'I – SPACE
Ambrika pulled her ship up to avoid an explosion and screamed when she saw an intense flash like a sun exploding and then it imploded into a huge ball of blackness.
The Prism ship she had admired at the beginning of the battle collapsed onto itself and was sucked into the blackness.
TAREK
I rescued the Saili the same way.
Nikklo nodded.
MARC
Oh shit, did you do that?
FADE IN:
INT. AMBRIKA'S VIZHAI – SPACE
Ambrika saw the two pirate ships hovering near the shimmering Tauian Prism ship. She was stunned by the beauty of the crystal ship but then shook her head and concentrated on the very visible pirate ships.
AMBRIKA
Okay, we fighters have to keep the pirates busy. The pirates are deploying intercepting shuttles.
TISA
What is Nik doing, Ambri?
AMBRIKA
He and Great Forger Tarek are targeting the main Prism ship.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
My Tauian insurgents are keeping the other Prism ships busy so they don't harm you, Ambrika.
AMBRIKA
Ilanit's Tauian Insurgents are keeping the rest of the Tauians busy. We just need to keep them off Nikklo and Tarek. Let's engage these pirates.
TISA
You heard Ambri, engage the pirates trash to keep them off Nik.
FIGHTERS
Houk!
All the Interceptors flipped around and leapt away from the expanding darkness.
Ambrika was frantically pushing the interceptor to gain more velocity.
CUT TO BLACK
CUT TO AMBRIKA'S SHUTTLE SITTING ON A LANDING DECK
INT. TISA'S VIZHA'I
Tisa was frantically watching the blackness expand as she pushed the interceptor harder.
CUT TO BLACK
CUT TO TISA'S VIZHA'I ON FLIGHT DECK, EURYANASSA
INT. ILANIT'S PRISM SHIP IN PHASE, FOLLOWING EURYANASSA
Ilanit's phase team are concentrating to move the Prism ship.
NIKKLO'S PHASING VISUAL
Tauian Nikklo landed on the Euryanassa, stood her beside Marc then phased back into space. He phased to each Vizha’i and landed them inside the ship before he touched the Euryanassa and astral phased it back to the Gasbajan system.
SAILI NIKKLO
Nikklo reappeared on the bridge and looked impassively at the view screen that showed a new patch of dead space.
Tarek appeared beside him.
AMBRIKA
Fausa, what's happening?
Tisa
My gyroscope is spinning wildly!
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
It's Nikklo's magnetic wave! Last time he unleashed this, Tauia exploded after several days!
TISA
Very bad! We're at vector zero! We have no chance for survival!
AMBRIKA
We have to trust my Dad to save us!
TISA
All Vizha'i, retreat at quickest speed back to Euryanassa!
AMBRIKA
All Saili figthers, retreat back to ship!
Nikklo reached out and absorbed the rest of the energy to stop the wave.
NIKKLO
Houk, that’s what’s left of the Tauian fleet. Now it’s a black hole. I stopped it from expanding more. That’s the final event horizon you see.
Di'ok stood from his communications board to stop at Nikklo’s side.
DI'OK
About time you slammed those bastards.
MARC
Yeah, it sure was.
DI'OK
Oh, and Ambri says, fa'arata for saving them from the implosion.
NIKKLO
I was not going to sacrifice my fighters in my attack on Beken.
Cherna once again looked Saili when she rushed to hug him.
CHERNA
I told you that’s what you had to do.
Nikklo pressed his cheek to her head.
NIKKLO
I finally listened to what everyone was telling me. I just don’t want to ever use that much power again.
TAREK
But Beken wouldn’t allow you to do anything less. I’m really sorry for the mess I made.
NIKKLO
We cleaned it up. Unfortunately, new dead space is the result. Prepare for phase to Sailia.
MARC
Oh, not again, I thought I was going to hurl on the first phase!
DI'OK
Yeah, his phasing is so sudden, it drops your stomach.
MARC
I noticed.
TAREK
I’ll phase Ambri’s ship again.
Tarek disappeared.
PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo changed forms and phased the ship to Sailia.
Tauina Nikklo released the ship just beyond Vagakta Station and returned to the bridge.
SAILI NIKKLO
INT. EURYANASSA BRIDGE
Nikklo returned to his Saili form and put his arm around Cherna’s waist again.
Rakulinea's mind tickled his fingertips. Nikklo mentally hugged her.
Tarek appeared on the bridge and grabbed Nikklo into a fierce hug.
TAREK
You did it, kiddo! We’re free!
NIKKLO
I got pissed.
TAREK
I know you did. You had to get fed up. You always did your best when you got fed up. Now, we’re setting up a celebration, but I want you humanoids to rejoice with us.
NIKKLO
Why don’t I phase us all to New Sailia so we can celebrate in the open?
TAREK
I’ll have to ask if it’s acceptable. Okay, everyone thinks having the party at New Sailia would be more comfortable than Vagakta Station.
NIKKLO
Okay, gather everyone together while I take a swim in the caldera to replenish my power and I’ll be back to phase everyone.
CHERNA
Should we go to New Sailia ahead of the party to warn Uncle Devasru he’s hosting the biggest Saili party in history?
MARC
Oh, shit!
Marc grabbed a chair arm.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
All hands, prepare to phase.
Nikklo changed form and phased the Euryanassa to New Sailia.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
You handle the preparations while I go back to Sailia, Cheri?
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
I will. See you soon.
PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo phased back to Sailia straight to Misipatasutisga with Tarek at his side.
He pulled off his clothes and plunged into the lava. He stroked around to absorb power quicker before he walked out, plunged into Tarek’s dousing barrel then dressed again.
TAREK
I know you’re mad at me, Nikky.
NIKKLO
I am still a little angry, but I understand why you did it. Beken stole your family and held them to force you to comply with him just like he did to me. I don’t blame you for stealing back your family. I guess I was being too forceful about wanting a body to free me from a life in stationary orbit. Now I know it wasn’t my best moment but I am happier as a micro and I enjoyed my life as Sannaro.
TAREK
Are you going to go back to your macro life?
NIKKLO
I’m too powerful to be a micro. I see that now. I don’t know what I want to do.
TAREK
Just go to the party for now and celebrate our freedom?
NIKKLO
I think I’ll start with that.
TAREK
Everyone is gathering together in a large ship at Vagakta Station for transport to New Sailia.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo phased to Vagakta Station.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Nik, this is Kumani, I launched us again and everything’s holding. Can we join your party at New Sailia?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Of course, Hadah, it’s the Astrisi’s celebration, too.
Nikklo and Tarek boarded the Saili ship.
Nikklo (PSI V.O.)
Is everyone ready to phase?
Tarek (PSI V.O.)
I’ll help you with my own energy to get us there.
Nikklo (PSI V.O.)
That would be appreciated. All Saili going to New Sailia, prepare for instant travel.
Nikklo touched the ship and reached out to grab light.
PHASING VISUAL
After many beam changes, he landed at the space port on New Sailia.
EXT. SPACESTATION, NEW SAILIA
Buses were parked near to transport everyone to the large park where the emancipation celebration was held before he was called by Grand Akuba Hiamovi to liberate Sailia from the Human invasion.
Nikklo felt so drained physically and emotionally, he boarded the bus and rode with the Saili.
EXT. EMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA - DAY - CONTINUOUS
Devasru was at the pavilion and began a cheer that was joined by everyone gathering at the park as Nikklo tiredly emerged from the bus.
DEVASRU
The legend of the Tsikakayu has been fulfilled! My nephew is victorious!
Another cheer rang through the air.
TAREK
Joining us soon is the Astrisi who trained our Tsikakayu in the art of warfare to save us!
Devasru walked up and hugged Nikklo.
NIKKLO
The war was not short of cost Many were lost in this brutal war. Can we have a moment of silence to remember those who died?
Devasru nodded and bowed his head.
Everyone quieted for a minute.
NIKKLO
Tarek, can I ask a request to you?
TAREK
Ask away, son.
NIKKLO
I don’t want Arcas to remain a Hlatutara. Can his soul be returned to his body?
TAREK
His body is too decayed now.
Nikklo closed his eyes and shivered.
TAREK
But I can ask him if he’d like to have a Saili body instead.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Nui, I think I'll stay a bug for now. Fa'arata for the offer, though.
Nikklo turned to booming noises that came from the sky and was cheered to see the white Astrisi shuttles that flew toward the ground.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Welcome my friends!
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
We’re honored to be asked to attend, Nik.
Several minutes later, the shuttles landed in a field beyond the park and disembarked many people Nikklo knew all his life as Sannaro. He smiled as Hadah and Retal joined him.
NIKKLO
Hey, Rey, getting away from the bridge for once?
RETAL
Hadah said this was too special for anyone to miss and I really missed Danu and my grandchildren. I need to hear you took good care of them.
NIKKLO
Vara would’ve given me a solid lecture and I shudder to think what Danu would’ve done to me if I hadn’t. I assure you, I didn’t allow them to come to harm.
RETAL
Good.
HADAH
We’ll rotate everyone who wants to visit New Sailia.
NIKKLO
Yuri can guard the skies and use the Euryanassa’s main batteries if we need defense but I don’t think we will.
TAREK
No, Nik thoroughly scared everyone for now.
Di'ok and Danu tackled Nikklo with hugs. Varanani and Cherna filled the gaps to join the family hug.
NIKKLO
I couldn’t have faced this without all of you.
Arcas climbed up onto Nikklo’s shoulder.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Hey, even a bug's got to breathe!
NIKKLO
You, too, Arc, you were invaluable and I promise you won’t remain a bug for the rest of your life.
Kotonori stood passively nearby.
Nikklo looked at him anxiously.
KOTONORI (PSI V.O.)
You are the Tsikakayu Tsisutisga’s son who was to save the Saili from their own shortsightedness. I see now that I am the one who needs enlightenment.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Peace isn’t a bad thing, Kotonori. It was just my mission to bring back peace by ensuring Saili survival. My mutation was necessary.
KOTONORI (PSI V.O.)
I understand now. I pray you find your own peace, Nikklosannaro.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Thank you, Kotonori. I was surprised to see you off Sailia.
KOTONORI (PSI V.O.)
I came for enlightenment and to celebrate your victory.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Welcome to New Sailia. I think my Uncle Devasru and the other New Saili made quite a nice colony.
KOTONORI (PSI V.O.)
Their colony is nicely made.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
Ambrika rushed up to him with Jeremy close behind. Ambrika tackled him in a big hug.
NIKKLO
Ah, Little Rose, you did a fine job commanding the attack on the Pirates!
AMBRIKA
I had the best trainer, you know!
Nikklo grinned at Jeremy.
NIKKLO
Hey, you get into this hug too, boy. Your woman just finished a tough fight.
Jeremy chuckled and hugged them both.
Suddenly, Nikklo’s head went light and he felt himself dropping to the ground.
Ambrika yelped and used all her strength to control his fall.
Jeremy moved to hug Nikklo’s chest and lowered him to the ground.
Nikklo gasped and hugged his aching chest.
NIKKLO
I guess I used too much power on that black hole to keep this body’s containment.
Jeremy concentrated and scanned his form.
JEREMY
Wow, I’m not sure what I should do!
Tarek placed his hand on Jeremy’s shoulder.
TAREK
Can I channel myself through you, Jeremy? If we combine my knowledge with your talent, we may be able to help him.
JEREMY
Please do, Tsisutisga!
AMBRIKA
Please help him, Ki’ya!
TAREK
I’ll try, Little Rose.
Cherna ran to them.
CHERNA
No, no, no! Nikky, don’t go!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
But I’m too powerful to be a micro. I messed everyone’s lives up!
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
No, you didn’t mess anyone’s lives up!
DANU (PSI V.O.)
We were better for knowing you!
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
You inspired us to reach our maximum potential!
KU'AN (PSI V.O.)
And not squander our lives by dwelling on outdated beliefs!
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
And stand up for what we believed. We were all better for knowing you.
CROWD (PSI V.O.)
We were better for knowing you.
VARANANI (PSI V.O.)
We are your people. We were created to be your companions. Stay with us.
TAREK
Ah, there it is. Jeremy, Ezron’s last attack on Nikky cracked his core containment and is allowing power to leak out and weaken him. Can I use your healing powers to encourage Nik to heal the crack?
JEREMY
Please use me to heal him, Tsisutisga.
Tarek pressed his hands to Nikklo’s chest.
Nikklo felt the pain become more manageable and concentrated with Tarek and Jeremy to will the crack to close.
Tarek finally dropped his arms to his side in exhaustion.
TAREK
It’s done. He core is properly contained again.
JEREMY
I was privileged to be your tool, Tsisutisga.
NIKKLO
I guess I should stay. I was so unbearably lonely. That’s why I pushed to have this body made. I don’t want to be alone again.
VARANANI
So stay with us and allow us to remain your companions.
Cherna bent over him.
CHERNA
And we have a new baby to raise. Don't leave me alone!
ANDOKU
Please, Dad? You promised me you’d sculpt something at my side.
NIKKLO
I guess that’s a promise I want to keep.
ANDOKU
I’m keeping you to it.
Nikklo carefully sat up again.
Jeremy supported his back and helped him.
NIKKLO
But if I’m going to continue to be the Tsikakayu who protects all Saili and Astrisi, I don’t know if I can do it under the Kumani’s restrictions. No offense intended to you, Hadah.
HADAH
No offense taken. What are you intending?
NIKKLO
I want to keep the Euryanassa as my warship so I can travel at my discretion with a completely voluntary Saili and Astrisi crew.
HADAH
Which nation would you fly under?
NIKKLO
The Saili don’t have the intergalactic protections. I guess I’d want to ask to fly under the Astrisi Firebird.
HADAH
That would take a decision by the Council of Ships.
NIKKLO
Houk, it would. I guess I’ll have to plan a petition to gather a Council of Ships to ask.
HADAH
I would support you.
NIKKLO
Fa’arata, Hadah.
TAREK
Do you think you can stand now?
NIKKLO
I think so.
Nikklo concentrated for a few seconds to reconnect with the body’s nerve center. He carefully stood up again.
Tarek laid his hand on Nikklo’s arm and shared some of his energy.
TAREK
There, that should help you restore power. We are still trying to have a party but you should rest as much as you can.
Nikklo nodded and walked to the pavilion to sit on a bench.
Cherna sat beside him and entwined her fingers between his fingers.
CHERNA
It’s time to rest, lover.
NIKKLO
I need you, Cherna.
CHERNA
I know you do. Rakulinea needs you, too. I’m just too addicted to your aura to leave you anyway so you’re stuck with me.
NIKKLO
Lucky me.
CHERNA
Even my dad begged you to stay.
NIKKLO
Houk, Ku'an’s voice was quite adamant.
Soon the evening air was filled with band music, people dancing and eating food served from a kitchen tent.
NIKKLO
The war is finished. But the toll it took on me was immense.
CHERNA
The Tauians were the cruelest opponents we ever faced. I’m going to make trays for both of us and you will eat it.
NIKKLO
Houk, I will do as commanded.
Cherna slapped his shoulder.
CHERNA
You’re such an imp, Nikklosannaro!
NIKKLO
That's me.
Cherna shook her head and walked across the grass.
He watched her hips sway enticingly until she was out of sight.
He looked over at the main pavilion who had filled with dancing people.
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
Nikky!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
What's wrong, Cheri?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Come and get them, Nikklo.
Nikklo clenched his fists and looked up.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Nikky, please give me audience. I know where Cheri and your daughter were taken.
Nikklo phased to the Tauian Tsikakayu statue and saw a shimmer near the base. He phased over and looked at the shattered half torso and head of Ilanit. Nikklo bent down.
NIKKLO
Lani, what happened?
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Ezron. Somehow he didn't get sucked into your black hole.
NIKKLO
Did he tear you apart?
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Yes, he wanted to know everything about your daughter. I'm sorry.
NIKKLO
No, he's always abused you. Now he thinks he has someone new to abuse.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Be careful, Nikky. He shattered my mother without remorse.
NIKKLO
He picked on the wrong bitch cause I'm going to tear him apart for touching my girls. He didn't consider I'm still a hadron quark pulsar who's eighty percent male and I'm pissed.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
There's a Prism Ship hovering between Gasbaja and Regalis. Ezron took it over. Cherna and Rakulinea are on that Prism Ship. Go get your family back, Nikky.
NIKKLO
Thank you.
Nikklo picked up the remains of Ilanit. He took her to the cave on Gasbaja where he had found the natural swarm of crystal parasites.
NIKKLO
This cave has a natural swarm of the crystallines that keep my limbs on my body. If you can convince them, they may help you to move again. I wish you well, Ilanit.
Nikklo walked out and flew into the air.
PHASING VISUAL
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Where the hell are you going?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I have to get my family back.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
What did I tell you about rushing off by yourself?
Nikklo stopped and returned to the Euryanassa at New Sailia.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
My bridge crew, gather together to be returned to ship. Yuri, prepare for flight.
YURI (PSI V.O.)
Houk, Nikklo. Preparing for flight.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
We're gathered outside the central tent, Nik.
Nikklo phased to New Sailia and landed near Marc.
NIKKLO
Touch each other, now. I'm not changing form.
Everyone took each other's hands and Marc held his other hand out.
MARC
Get us gone, Nik.
Nikklo grabbed Marc's hand and phased back the the Euryanassa.
Nikklo landed on the bridge and changed back to Saili form.
NIKKLO
Yuri, I'll phase the ship to where we're going.
YURI
Preparing ship for phase.
Nikklo paced.
NIKKLO
I wish it was faster.
MARC
What good is it to phase this ship into space before the engines are online?
NIKKLO
I understand. I'm just feeling impatient.
MARC
I know this is painful for you, Nik. Ezron has your family. We'll save them.
NIKKLO
How did he get away from the black hole?
MARC
Now you're just going to drive yourself crazy with that question. Ask him yourself when you confront him.
YURI
Engines are coming online.
MARC
Hey, don't turn orange on me, Nik. We're almost ready.
Nikklo nodded.
YURI
Engines are ready.
Nikklo changed forms.
TAUIAN NIKKLO
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Phasing now!
Marc lunged to grab a chair arm just as they elongated into the light stream.
PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo locked onto the hated mental signature of Ezron and made multiple corrections until they were close. Nikklo released the light and the Euryanassa settled back into normal space.
SAILI NIKKLO
He returned to Saili form, saw the shimmer of the Prism ship in the distance and narrowed his eyes.
MARC
Talk to me, Tsikakayu. What are your orders?
NIKKLO
There's not much you can do to a Prism ship you can't see. Be on alert and listen for any warnings. Yuri, change the forward sensor to include infrared and warn Marc if anything changes with that ship.
YURI
Houk, Nik.
NIKKLO
I have to confront Ezron alone. Just keep the main batteries on that Prism.
TAUIAN NIKKLO
Nikklo changed back to Tauian form and phased out of his ship. He reached out to grab the light and traveled into the crystal walls.
PHASING VISUAL
INT. EZRON'S PRISM SHIP - CONTINUOUS
SAILI NIKKLO
Nikklo landed and gasped.
On the floor, Cherna lay in a pool of pink blood that spread from between her legs.
Nikklo squatted down.
NIKKLO
Oh, no he didn't.
CHERNA
She's not out yet but she's coming.
Nikklo moved to Cherna's feet.
NIKKLO
Bend your knees so I can see how far you are.
Cherna grunted as her knees shook but stayed where they were.
CHERNA
I can't!
Nikklo removed her leggings and bent Cherna's knees to help her move her feet to her buttocks. He looked between her legs.
He saw a crystal ball was protruding from her.
He widened his eyes in alarm and touched the hairless head.
NIKKLO
Linea?
RAKULINEA (PSI V.O.)
Mommy, I can't move. I'm weak and tired. I need light. Please move me.
Nikklo carefully curled his fingers around the clear chest and gently pulled the little fully formed body out of Cherna. He turned her around and cradled the tiny form.
NIKKLO
Linea, I'm here.
Ezron hovered before him, or what was left of him. The crystal was smoky black and charred. He only had a right arm to the elbow where Arcas sliced off his hands and a left leg that ended at the knee. The aura was the same but darker and more agitated. Nikklo cradled his newborn baby girl.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Ah, thank you for finishing the job. I know nothing about birthing from soft-shells.
NIKKLO
I'm impressed you got out of the black hole I made for you and Beken.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I had to sacrifice some parts to do it, as you can see. Beken wasn't so lucky.
NIKKLO
(FLATLY)
That pains my core immeasurably.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I told Beken you were too wild to bother with but he didn't like to take my advice.
NIKKLO
So why did you continue to work for him?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
It was fun to hunt you. You were a challenge no other Tauian gave me.
NIKKLO
Is that why you raped me? It was fun to toy with me?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
No, I truly wanted to show Ilanit why you were an unacceptable suitor.
NIKKLO
If I wasn't an acceptable suitor, why did you steal Cherna and Rakulinea?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Because that little Tauian is a piece of you. She may show the same talents you have and she may be more manageable if I start her training early.
NIKKLO
You're sick.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You failed, Nikklo. The surviving Tauians don't want your freedom. They're too used to doing as they're told. They let me in again. It was easy to capture Ilanit and tear her apart.
NIKKLO
She was your daughter!
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Social interaction is only a means to an end. Haven't you learned that yet?
NIKKLO
This social interaction is at an end. This time I'll make sure your core is extinguished!
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Ha, I don't believe you can do it. You're too restrained! You care too much about these soft shells and it makes you hold back! I couldn't care less!
Ezron flew toward Nikklo. The stump of his arm formed a light spear.
Nikklo jumped out of Ezron's way and cracked Ezron on the back.
Just as Nikklo's arm connected with Ezron, Ezron phased them.
PHASING VISUAL
The blur of travel was replaced by a small town on a mountainside.
EXT. BRISTOL CAMP, REGALIS - CONTINUOUS
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Recognize this, Nikklo?
NIKKLO
Bristol, the place of Sannaro's birth and Sannaro's first death.
He walked over to the permanent gold streaks embedded in the ground and squatted to touch his own hardened blood.
NIKKLO
What's the purpose for this tour, Ezron?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You have all that power sealed in your core and still your colors pale about a little blood on the ground. You waste that power with your sentiment.
NIKKLO
Ezron, you know nothing about my core or why I chose to become Tauian and you'll never understand because you're incapable of seeing beyond your narrow view. You see others as nothing more than tools to force the realization of your goals or to keep you amused. A pulsar is a solitary ball of atomic energy in a fixed orbit. As far as I know, I am the only self-aware pulsar and I would not will self-awareness on any other pulsar. They're better off not knowing what they're missing. I'm too restless to stay in one place and I can't stand the loneliness. My family alleviates my loneliness. I will not allow you to control me or my baby.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You are the one whose view is too narrow and I will make you see I'm right.
Nikklo rushed Ezron and phased them back into space.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Ah, at least you're learning but taking us away from your loved soft-shells won't matter.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I have no love for those soft-shells on that planet but there are innocents living there. My fight with you doesn't concern them.
Ezron formed a hook around Nikklo's waist and phased again.
PHASING VISUAL
EXT. SPACE
They now hovered over the Kumani.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You have sentiment for those who live in this metal shell. I know that you've touched the commander of this ship in ways very few know about or would approve of. You'll always find limited acceptance from these soft-shells.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah is a good friend of mine. He and his wife helped me succeed among the Astrisi. After No'ama died, Hadah was very lonely. What we did in our private time was our choice. I'm getting tired of your This is Your Life tour. Now I want to beat your ass and take my family back home.
He grabbed Ezron and returned them to the Prism Ship.
EZRON'S PRISM SHIP - CONTINUOUS
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You still don't believe me that you won't, as you say, beat my ass because you're too restrained! Release your restraint and feel your full power, Nikklo. You won't regret embracing your full potential.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Do you see that black space I made out there? That was just a fraction of my power that made that black hole! If I use all of my power, I could destroy all of creation! With no one left to rule, what would you do? You can't tell dust what to do because it has no mind! This is stupid, Ezron. You're just drunk for power.
Nikklo sensed Cherna and phased to her.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
Cherna still sat on the floor in her own blood.
Nikklo squatted down beside her.
SAILI NIKKLO
He changed form and hugged her.
NIKKLO
Are you beginning to recover from birthing?
CHERNA
Houk, I'm tired and weak but I think I'm okay.
Nikklo settled Rakulinea in her arms.
Cherna instinctively hugged the baby she could barely see.
CHERNA
She's purple, red, sky blue, yellow, and orange. She's beautiful, Nikky.
NIKKLO
Yes, she is. You gave me the greatest gift, my love.
CHERNA
You gave me my legs back so I guess we're even? I don't ever want to be enraged with you again.
NIKKLO
I hope so for the sake of Linea and me.
CHERNA
Are we free yet?
NIKKLO
Not yet.
He stood and turned around when he sensed Ezron appear inside the room.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Why you would take us to the ones that hold you back, I fail to understand.
Nikklo took Rakulinea out of Cherna's hands and cradled her.
NIKKLO
Ezron, this is our daughter. I love her even though I hate that you conceived her because it's not her fault that you fathered her. She chose to attach herself to Cherna to survive because she didn't want me to cry. You can't understand that because she only represents a possible tool for power if she manifests similar powers to mine. I see a lovely little girl who could do so much to contribute to this universe in any way she chooses. The value she holds for me is how many hugs she can give me throughout her life. She's the reason I fight.
He placed Rakulinea into Cherna's arms again.
NIKKLO
Sorry, baby, Mommy needs to fight now.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Arcas, stay and stand guard over Cheri and Linea.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Houk, boss.
Arcas detached from Nikklo's back and landed beside Cherna.
Nikklo stood up, changed back to TAUIAN NIKKLO and faced Ezron.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Sorry, Cheri, I can only think of one way to get us free. Please don't hate me.
CHERNA
Why?
Nikklo phased into another room and imagined himself in a FEMALE TAUIAN NIKKLO.
Ezron appeared in the same room and snorted.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
What are you doing now?
FEMALE TAUIAN NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Embracing who I truly am just like you told me to. You can say this is my Nikole form, the other twenty percent of me.
She sauntered over to Ezron and placed her hand on his chest. She willed her aura to travel down her arm.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Oh, this will be fun. I'm glad you're finally willing to obey me.
As soon as FEMALE TAUIAN NIKKLO'S aura entered EZRON, she gasped.
Ezron arched his neck.
FEMALE TAUIAN NIKKLO opened her core, channeled her magnetic power through her aura and commanded the positive atoms to invert.
He snapped his head down when he felt the energy shift. He shook with fatigue as he tried to block the influx of power. He shrieked and exploded in a shower of sand particles.
Nikklo returned to his male TAUIAN NIKKLO and shuddered. He changed to his SAILI NIKKLO and returned to Cherna's room.
NIKKLO
I'm sorry, Cheri. I'll understand if you think I'm despicable for what I did.
Cherna stood up with Rakulinea in her arms and hugged him.
CHERNA
I don't think you're despicable. You did what any mother would do; you protected your child at any cost. He can't reverse his atoms so there's no way he could come back this time. We're finally free.
Nikklo dried his eyes and opened his telepathy in a wide band.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
All Tauians, this is Nikklo. I reversed the atomic structure of Ezron until he exploded just like I did to Tauia. These aggressive behaviors have to end. Ilanit is not dead but she is very shattered. I claim all surviving Tauians under my leadership. I will enforce peace or I will destroy any Tauian that does not maintain peace. Each Prism ship will be populated by crystalline barnacles who will report to me if any of you do not maintain the peace and I will personally punish the infraction. Tarek will be my second in command and will also maintain peace. If Ilanit manages to survive, she will return as your Governor. Do not raise my ire again. I will contact you again if I have more information. That is all.
TAUIANS (PSI V.O.)
We hear and obey, Nikklo.
Nikklo took Cherna's hand.
NIKKLO
Are you ready to return home?
Cherna looked down at the crystal baby and smiled.
CHERNA
We're ready to go home.
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
I love you, Mommy.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I love you, too, Linea.
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Father won't make you cry again.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
No, never again.
Arcas landed on Nikklo's back again.
Nikklo reached out to grab a light beam.
PHASING VISUAL back to the Euryanassa.
INT. EURYANASSA - CONTINUOUS
Nikklo landed everyone in their apartment and changed forms again.
NIKKLO
You both must be exhausted.
Cherna changed into her night dress and caressed Nikklo's cheek.
CHERNA
Will you be okay?
NIKKLO
I may need to talk to Wanakaya. I feel so dirty. I let this war get too deep inside me. I compromised my standards horribly.
CHERNA
You were a Momma Bear protecting your baby. It's the nature of motherhood. Look what you did to protect Andoku. Was that different?
NIKKLO
I started a riot on a space station.
CHERNA
You did and you were tried and convicted for it. Your people took offense and began the Saili Civil War to win freedom from Hiamovi's tyranny. You only fought that war to be allowed to return home, so you told me. You violated the sovereignty of the Urvasi to kidnap your sister to get her away from an abusive husband. You were tried for that, too, and was exonerated because you proved that Viho was abusing Tanei.
NIKKLO
This time I raped a man to lower his defenses so I could rip him apart from the inside out.
CHERNA
Because he raped you and made you pregnant then stole that baby away from you the first chance he had. You may feel dirty, Nikklo, but can you truly think of any other way you could have stopped that monster?
NIKKLO
I couldn't think of anything other than to destroy the universe and kill us all.
CHERNA
I wouldn't have liked that idea. You did what you had to do. Now it's time to heal your body and your core. You have a newborn baby to raise and I'm damned well going to be at your side helping you care for that little girl who needs you. Will you be there for Linea?
He looked at the tiny crystalloid baby in Cherna's arms and couldn't hold back the tears that blurred his eyesight. He huddled in a chair and sobbed.
Cherna opened his arms and laid Linea on his lap.
He wrapped his arms around her and rocked her gently as tears continued to flow down his cheeks.
CHERNA
You're cradling the future of the Tauian race. Rebuild your people, Nikklo. You promised them you would. Now make that promise to Linea and heal yourself for her.
Nikklo wiped his arm across his face.
NIKKLO
I may have to work on that.
CHERNA
I'm willing to accept that and I'm sure Linea is willing to accept that too because she can't do much more than eat and wave her arms and legs.
NIKKLO
She hasn't cried.
CHERNA
But Tauians are naturally telepathic with no vocalization. We may need to teach her how to verbally express her emotions to communicate effectively with Saili and Astrisi. Has she communicated to you in any way?
NIKKLO
She's sent telepathic messages in full sentences. She told me to pull her out of you cause she needed light and she was too tired to move.
CHERNA
Then she's communicating like a Tauian. We'll need to teach her how to speak when she's older and takes on her Saili form.
Cherna shivered and lowered herself onto the couch with her hand pressed against her stomach.
NIKKLO
Cheri?
Nikklo rushed over to her.
CHERNA
It's all right, I'm just still tired from the birthing.
NIKKLO
He forced you to birth her before she was ready.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Danu get here now. Cherna needs medical attention.
DANU
On my way!
Danu rushed into the room with his med kit in his hands.
NIKKLO
Take care of Cheri. I've got Linea.
DANU
Who's Linea?
NIKKLO
Cherna just gave birth.
DANU
I don't see anything!
NIKKLO
She's Tauian. I'm the only person who can see her.
DANU
Cheri had a Tauian baby?
NIKKLO
Danu, please, attend to Cheri. I'll explain when you think she'll be okay, please?
Danu shook off his shock and worked on Cherna to clean her up and examine her.
Nikklo sat down in his arm chair still holding the crystal baby.
Varanani crouched beside the chair.
VARANANI
Who is she, Nikky?
NIKKLO
She's my baby Rakulinea.
VARANANI
I thought she died? And how did she get into Cherna?
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
I didn't want to leave Mommy to cry.
VARANANI (PSI V.O.)
Who's Mommy?
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Nikky is Mommy.
VARANANI (PSI V.O.)
Who is Cheri?
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Cheri is Chali.
VARANANI (PSI V.O.)
But both words mean Mother! What about Father?
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Father made Mommy cry. Father is gone now. I will make my Mommy and Chali happy.
VARANANI
She knows, Nik! She knows who you are. How are you going to take care of a baby only you can see?
NIKKLO
In a few weeks, I'll give her a Tauian crystal and teach her how to change form so I can have more help. Until then, I'll have to trust those who will take my word for it a baby is there.
VARANANI
Can we alleviate confusion and teach her to say you are her father?
NIKKLO
That would alleviate confusion for many people.
CHERNA
Can I see her again?
Nikklo stood up and walked to the couch. He laid Rakulinea on Cherna's chest.
Cherna instinctively hugged the baby.
CHERNA
She's precious, Nikky.
NIKKLO
Yes, she is. Danu, can you order for a sun lamp to be put on Linea's crib like she is jaundiced? That will help her to feed on light while she's weak from birthing.
Danu nodded still stunned.
NIKKLO
I'm a hermaphrodite. Ezron raped me and made me pregnant. I flew to Sailia before I told anyone because I was in pain and I wasn't female enough that my body was aborting her.
DANU
And you didn't bother to tell me?
NIKKLO
I've been very busy!
DANU
Okay, I'll give you that. You have been insanely busy. But you have to take some time to get a physical to tell me how you're intersexed so I know what's happened to you.
NIKKLO
I promise, I'll do that.
DANU
Damn it, I've done hundreds of scans on you. How did I not see that?
NIKKLO
A lot has changed for me in these weeks since the Kumani was grounded and I learned recently the more different forms I change into, the more my default body reforms with mutations so I can't fault you.
DANU
Oh, okay, that makes me feel a little better.
NIKKLO
After Tarek detached the fetus from my body, she was placed in a crystal box. Cherna wanted to see the baby to help her understand what I was going through and dropped the box. Next we knew, the fetus was attached to Cheri and alive. Cheri and I decided to continue the pregnancy since she's successfully given birth before. So Rakulinea is my Tauian baby who chose Cherna as her surrogate mother to survive.
DANU
This is the weirdest birth I've ever not seen.
NIKKLO
I'm more alien than I ever imagined. Are you okay with that?
DANU
You were my best friend who always defended me from being teased because I was different, then I became your brother-in-law. You need that same support you gave me. I'm not leaving, Nikklosannaro. You'll have that crib with the light to feed your baby.
NIKKLO
Fa'arata. Will Cherna be okay?
DANU
Houk, she shows all the postpartum symptoms common to a Saili mother. She should recover quickly. Well, how does it feel to be a father again?
NIKKLO
It feels good. I'll be okay now.
YURI (PSI V.O.)
Nikky, we're approaching Gasbaja.
Nikklo scooped up Rakulinea and phased to the bridge.
Marc turned around and looked oddly at Nikklo.
NIKKLO
Don't worry about it.
MARC
Worry about what?
NIKKLO
I'm holding a baby.
MARC
You are? I don't see anything.
NIKKLO
Just take my word for it. Yuri, prepare to set orbit around New Sailia.
Varanani stepped onto the bridge and tied a long cloth around Nikklo's chest.
VARANANI
This is a baby carrier. Put Linea in like it's a hammock.
Nikklo gently settled her into the hammock and put his arms around the cloth.
NIKKLO
Fa'arata, sis.
ASTRISI #1
Wow, this really is a new ship. I hope we'll see this baby he thinks he's carrying.
DI'OK
We'll have to get used to it. Nik sees more than we do.
YURI
We're coming into orbit around New Sailia.
NIKKLO
We're back again.
Nikklo sensed Tarek appear. He turned around to face him.
Tarek held up a lavender colored crystal pole attached to two tiny bracelets. He stepped up and looked into the hammock.
TAREK
That will be her first Tauian crystal. She's like me, a limited shape changer. She'll only be able to choose one other form.
Nikklo touched his finger to the crystal and activated it to connect to Rakulinea.
NIKKLO
That's a great first gift.
Ambrika stepped up around Tarek and looked down.
AMBRIKA
I can't see my little sister but I can touch her and say welcome to the family, Linea.
NIKKLO
Oh, ki'iwa, Ambri.
AMBRIKA
I wanted to come see what the fuss was about so I told Tarek to bring me with him.
NIKKLO
Let's disembark and get Lin and Cheri settled in for some sleep.
AMBRIKA
Uh, Dad?
NIKKLO
What, Ambri?
Ambrika pointed to his chest.
He looked down at tiny dark slanted eyes framed with blue-black hair. Her tiny pink gold fists waved in the air.
Nikklo
Oh, Lini, you didn't have to do that yet! You don't have any clothes!
Nikklo grimaced and felt wetness spread across his stomach.
AMBRIKA
Already getting the best of dad? It's okay, Dad, I'll get her a diaper and something to wear.
She took the baby.
NIKKLO
Oh, fausa, how will we feed her?
Varanani stepped through the hatch with a bottle in her hand. She handed the bottle to Ambrika.
Ambrika slipped the nipple into Rakulinea's mouth.
Rakulinea drank greedily.
Varanani held up a diaper and a little dress.
VARANANI
Let's go find a table to get her dressed, Ambri.
NIKKLO
But I'm the mo, uh, dad. I can take care of her!
AMBRIKA
You're also the commander of this ship that needs to shut down. We'll get Lini comfortable.
TAREK
Accept their help until Cheri can get out of bed. Family are invaluable when you have a new baby in the house.
AMBRIKA
Uh, and Dad?
NIKKLO
Houk.
AMBRIKA
You're barely decent with your sweatshirt quite wet now.
Nikklo felt his face burn in a blush.
AMBRIKA
Hey, Aunt Vara, let's give your brother some TLC so he can clean up.
VARANANI
Good idea, Niece. You're Dad is having a rough day.
She led the way out of the bridge and stopped at Nikklo's office to dress Rakulinea.
Once that was finished, they accompanied Nikklo back to the apartment.
Nikklo ducked into the bedroom to change. He looked fondly at Cherna who was deep in sleep in the bed before he rejoined his sister and daughters in the living room.
NIKKLO
Everything happened so fast, it blew me away and I'm used to going at light speed anymore.
He picked up Rakulinea and nuzzled her with his cheek.
She grabbed his hair.
He hissed and unwrapped his hair from her fingers.
AMBRIKA
Dad, to tell you the truth, you make a better dad than a mom. You need Cherna.
Nikklo blushed.
Cherna sat up and walked up to Nikklo.
CHERNA
Ah, now I can see you, sweetheart. You chose to look like me. How sweet. Did Dad care for you well enough?
Linea burped.
Cherna crinkled her nose.
CHERNA
Houk, that's the unmistakable baby milk smell.
NIKKLO
We're back at New Sailia. I was getting better dressed so I could oversee the disembarkation.
AMBRIKA
And because Linea had her first accident all over his shirt.
CHERNA
Oh, when did you get here, Ambri?
AMBRIKA
Tarek brought me along when he brought Linea her Tauian crystal.
NIKKLO
But it wasn't my fault Linea learned to change forms before we found clothes for her!
AMBRIKA
No, Dad, a lot happened quickly. It's okay.
NIKKLO
Now that I'm finally sure the war is over, let's get back to the party we began.
Cherna kissed Nikklo before she handed Linea back to him and returned to the bedroom to change again.
She returned a few minutes later completely dressed.
FADE OUT.
THE END