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 82 – COUNCIL OF SHIPS
BY: LYSSA THORNE
FADE IN:
INT. NIKKLO'S APARTMENT, EURYANASSA
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.
CHERNA
You're people await your news, Tsikakayu.
Nikklo stood up and hugged his baby.
NIKKLO
Yes, they do.
Varanani placed another baby carrier around his neck and helped him settle Linea.
NIKKLO
I guess this is also now an Us'uata os Atea. My baby's birth celebration.
Cherna wrapped her arms around his arm.
CHERNA
Our baby's birth celebration.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Everyone returning to New Sailia, join me on the bridge and prepare for phase.
His family took each other's hands and Cherna wrapped her arm around his.
PHASING VISUAL
He phased to the bridge.
Marc touched Nikklo's shoulder with the others touching him.
Nikklo phased back to the park on New Sailia.
PHASE VISUAL
EXT. EMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA - DAY
Devasru rushed up to them.
DEVASRU
What happened? Suddenly, you disappeared and the Bureau of Space Transportation reported the Euryanassa disappeared from the orbital sensors!
NIKKLO
The battle wasn't entirely over. Cherna was kidnapped while she was getting food for us. I had to leave to rescue her.
DEVASRU
Are you sure the war is over now?
NIKKLO
I know the war is over.
Devasru wrinkled his brow and looked down at the baby hammock.
DEVASRU
What? Who is this?
CHERNA
I was pregnant. When I was kidnapped, I went into premature labor. We're lucky Rakulinea and I were strong enough to take it.
DEVASRU
I didn't know you were pregnant. That's a surprise for Saili who usually can sense it.
NIKKLO
Linea is Tauian. That changes a lot of things. Thanks to the Great Forger Tarek, the baby was saved.
DEVASRU
Well, congratulations!
TAREK
The legend of the Tsikakayu has been fulfilled. I may have saved his and Cherna's baby but Nikklo saved all the Saili from extinction!
The crowd cheered.
NIKKLO
We were having a party here before we were interrupted! Let's get it going again!
CHERNA
I'm going to get our food this time!
NIKKLO
We're going together.
Several minutes later, Cherna and Nikklo sat down at a table to eat.
CHERNA
Nik, are you serious about wanting to keep the Euryanassa?
NIKKLO
I’m serious. If I’m going to be everyone’s emergency back-up, I want to be able to travel to whoever calls me in a blink of an eye. That means, if I want to move us, I don’t want to ask a whole council for permission. I want to grab a light beam and go. If I’m granted this request, I’m going to renovate that ship’s interior though. The whole place is way too dark. As a light-based being, I need it brighter.
CHERNA
And I’ll be mate to the commander of the thirteenth ship of the Astrisi.
NIKKLO
Di'ok will man my comm board and Danu will man my hospital because they’ll refuse to leave my side. Marc says he wants to join me as my executive officer and retire from the ADF. My crew is already beginning to take shape. Now I need to ask the Council of Ships and design my ship symbol.
CHERNA
Now you need to enjoy this party and worry about the council when it’s called.
NIKKLO
Yes, dear.
She picked up his fork and scooped up some food.
CHERNA
Eat.
Nikklo took the fork and put the food in his mouth.
NIKKLO
I'm eating.
CHERNA
Good pulsar.
NIKKLO
You’re the only person in the universe who can get away with telling a high magnitude star what to do.
CHERNA
Yes, yes, I am.
NIKKLO
You revel in it.
CHERNA
A girl’s got to take what she can!
Cherna wandered off to talk to other people. Nikklo was still at the pavilion bench staring at the sun and cradling Rakulinea while she slept.
HADAH
You know if any of us did what you’re doing, we’d be blinded?
Nikklo blinked and looked at him.
NIKKLO
I didn’t realize I was doing that. You need something?
HADAH
I’ve been talking to the other ships and they want to ask you a special request.
NIKKLO
Me? I’m the one who’s putting together the petition.
HADAH
Well, they are intrigued with your request and they’re jealous they’re being left out of the party so they want you to phase them here.
NIKKLO
The Astrisi sure do like excuses to party.
HADAH
Remember, work hard, play hard?
NIKKLO
Houk, that’s the Astrisi. I’ve been soaking up the sun for several hours and I’m feeling a lot better but I’m thinking I may need to ask Tarek to do some transporting. Eleven ships is quite a lot of work, even for us super beings but I guess it would help my petition if I lured them with a party first.
HADAH
You scamp.
NIKKLO
That's me.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
I heard that you want to transport the whole Astrisi nation to New Sailia?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Well, once they’re all happy and drunk, I could ask them to accept the Euryanassa as the thirteenth ship of the Astrisi and have autonomy to do as I choose.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
Hadah’s right, you are a scamp.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
You handed me over to the Astrisi for training!
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
Yeah, I did so I’ll help you get the Council of Ships happily drunk so you can ask your petition.
NIKKLO
Okay, Tarek agrees to help me phase the Astrisi ships here.
HADAH
You guys work so damned fast.
NIKKLO
We’re light-based beings. Our centuries hiding with you sub-light beings have actually slowed us some!
Nikklo turned to Di'ok and rose off the ground to face his taller friend eye to eye.
DI'OK bent down and poked at the baby hammock.
Nikklo pulled Di'ok's hand away to not disturb the sleeping baby.
HADAH
Slowed you? Ha, you still go faster than we do.
NIKKLO
Sometimes it’s good to go sub-light.
DI'OK
Like when you need to bask on a rock like a lizard?
NIKKLO
Bla'ua, rodent.
DI'OK
Make me.
HADAH
Oh, boy, I’m not getting into this.
DI'OK
I'm supposed to be intimidated because you can float on air?
NIKKLO
Nope.
He dove in on Di'ok and kissed him soundly on the mouth.
Di'ok gaped at Nikklo.
NIKKLO
Now I got you to shut up.
Nikklo sank back to the ground.
HADAH
So you’re bringing all the Astrisi ships here?
NIKKLO
Yep, getting ready to go.
DI'OK
Better you than me.
NIKKLO
Ha, you can’t leap over a rock without stubbing your toe!
DI'OK
Exactly, better you than me!
NIKKLO
Good thing you’re my brother.
DI'OK
Yep, I’m going to use it for all it’s worth.
Both men leaned against each other and laughed heartily.
Tarek appeared beside them.
TAREK
I’m ready to begin transport.
Cherna took the baby carrier from around Nikklo's chest and settled it on her.
Nikklo changed to TAUIAN NIKKLO.
He and Tarek rose into the sky to phase to their first targets.
PHASING VISUAL
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
I’ll bring six and you bring five. If you feel yourself weakening, tell me and I’ll take over.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I will.
Tauian Nikklo phased to the farthest ship from New Sailia and floated beside it.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Basuto, Nikklosannaro requesting permission to board.
BASUTO (PSI V.O.)
Uh, how? You don’t have a ship?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I’ll appear in your council room.
BASUTO (PSI V.O.)
Just appear?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, then once I’m on board, I’ll warn you to prepare for rapid transport to New Sailia. I’ll give everyone a minute to brace themselves, then before you’ll know it, we’ll be at New Sailia.
BASUTO (PSI V.O.)
We’ve been trying to fly to the Kumani to help and Hadah just told us the whole war is over?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We were fighting ultra-light beings who struck very quickly. We appreciate your attempt to come to our aide, though. The Saili were quite helpful and closer.
BASUTO (PSI V.O.)
Okay, you have permission to board and appear in the council room.
Nikklo phased into the ship and landed in their council room with the symbol of the Basuto on the wall.
NIKKLO
I am in your council room. Please announce ship-wide that I will begin transport in one minute.
COM-SPEC (V.O.)
Attention, everyone, as we announced earlier, we are going to travel rapidly to New Sailia. Hold onto a fixed object. You have one minute to prepare for jump. Beginning countdown now.
Nikklo sat down at a lesser chair and stared at the ceiling.
NEHRU
Bored, Ku-Sannaro?
NIKKLO
Houk, I’m getting used to going at light speed so a minute can feel long.
NEHRU
You’ve had many changes in a very short time.
NIKKLO
Too many. I’m still trying to settle myself.
NEHRU
Oh, I forget my manners, do you want to continue to be called Sannaro or by your new name?
NIKKLO
Ku-Nikklo, please.
NEHRU
Okay, Ku-Nikklo, I believe the minute to prepare is almost past. How are you going to do this?
NIKKLO
I’ll look like I’ll disappear and then you’ll feel the sensation of riding in an elevator and you’re ship will be in orbit around New Sailia.
NEHRU
That’s it?
NIKKLO
I do all the work.
NEHRU
Convenient. I want to see your Sjujeenya. You know, having that ship is enviable?
NIKKLO
It has quite a legacy so I understand the envy. I needed him to defend the Kumani while she was grounded.
NEHRU
The Sjujeenya is a he?
NIKKLO
The artificial intelligence that runs the ship has a male appearance so I say it’s a he.
NEHRU
That’s a good enough explanation. So it’s a smart ship?
NIKKLO
Houk.
NEHRU
I really want to see that.
NIKKLO
I want to change forms now and transport us so I will take my leave of you.
NEHRU
Speak to you later, Ku-Nikklo.
Nikklo changed to TAUIAN NIKKLO.
PHASING VISUAL
NIKKLO phased the Basuto to New Sailia. He set her in orbit then traveled to the next ship.
MONTAGE OF PHASING 4 MORE SHIPS
He finally landed at the park again.
NIKKLO
Am I glad that’s over with.
SAILI TAREK appeared beside Nikklo.
TAREK
Talkative bunch.
NIKKLO
Yes, they are.
TAREK
They’re all here.
Hadah rushed up to meet them.
HADAH
We’ve got more guests coming. The space port is very busy and the Council wants to convene shortly after all the members are here.
NIKKLO
Then I’ve got some preparing to do. The commanders I spoke to all want to meet Yuri.
TAREK
And those I spoke with want a tour of the legendary Lost Sjujeenya!
NIKKLO
I was told I was in an enviable position to have command of that ship!
HADAH
You are. That’s our history inside there.
NIKKLO
And Di'ok is researching all of it to release as a public historical book.
HADAH
Good man! He’ll be remembered and appreciated for publishing this lost history.
NIKKLO
And he always envied me my reputation. Now his will be as remarkable in his own discipline.
TAREK
You’re right about that.
NIKKLO
I need to talk to Yuri about asking if I can make his ship a part of the Astrisi.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
INT. BRIDGE, EURYANASSA
YURI turned around as SAILI NIKKLO landed.
NIKKLO
Can you travel very far from this ship?
YURI
You have met a wild swarm. I can move as I need to if I attach myself to a hand held device and manifest myself through it.
NIKKLO
Good. Can you work on making that modular device? I want to continue to use your ship as a rapid defensive platform and I’m asking the Astrisi to fly under their banner.
YURI
You will not store us in the bunker?
NIKKLO
I don’t want to. This is a great ship with so much knowledge. It would be wasted in a bunker.
YURI
We will live again.
NIKKLO
You will live again, Yuri.
YURI
We thank you, Tsikakayu.
NIKKLO
Call me when you get the device finished and I’ll take you to council. They really want to meet you and tour the ship. I want so much to ask the Council to grant us the thirteenth ship.
YURI
I will work on the modular device and call you when I’m done.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
INT. TENT EMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA – DAY
Tarek joined him as he sat down again.
TAREK
Did you talk to Yuri?
NIKKLO
I did. His people don’t want to be stored in the bunker again so they’re excited about my proposal. He’s working on a modular device so he can come talk to the council to ask them, himself.
Tarek chuckled.
TAREK
That sounds really good. I’m glad the Astrisi are excited about finding the lost Sjujeenya that they’re willing to see it travel again. It will be a great mobile base for you. I know this won’t matter much, but have you relaxed and had some fun?
NIKKLO
I don’t have time for fun anymore.
Tarek disappeared then reappeared with two glasses of blue bubbly alchohol.
TAREK
Here, get a little tipsy. They won’t care.
NIKKLO
You know I don’t like being drunk?
TAREK
Yeah, I’ve heard it all before. You told me while you were tied down at Verano’s Rehabilitation Center. Do you remember calling hallucinogens hallucinnamon?
Nikklo shook his head and snorted.
NIKKLO
No, Verano had me was totally wasted. If I had, fausa, that's embarrassing!
TAREK
I understand you have too much power to risk loosing control but you can’t even allow slight impairment?
NIKKLO
Slight impairment isn’t so bad at times.
He took the glass and sipped it.
NIKKLO (CONT.)
Ah, Adki’s classic Brudacha recipe tastes so good, slightly sweet with just enough carbonation.
TAREK
I didn’t know you were a connoisseur?
NIKKLO
No, just drank a few glasses over the years. I’ve had some great batches and not so great batches.
TAREK
The Astrisi treated you well, you know that?
NIKKLO
I know. Some officials have accused me of having what the humans call Stockholm Syndrome. I don’t know, maybe I do but I thought the Astrisi treated me well, too. I sure didn’t feel that way toward Beken and he kept me hostage. All I know is that the Astrisi came to my aide and fought at my side when the Tauians came to take me back. If that rationalizing is Stockholm Syndrome, okay, I’ll accept it’s what I have and I’ll keep calling myself Astrisi. Problem solved.
HADAH pointed to a newly built tent across the grass.
HADAH
Hey, Nik, council’s starting!
Nikklo stood up.
NIKKLO
I have to see if Yuri’s ready to travel. I’ll see you after council, Tarek.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASE VISUAL
END ACT 1
ACT 2
INT. BRIDGE, EURYANASSA
SAILI NIKKLO turned to YURI.
SAILI NIKKLO stepped into the crowded tent and nodded to everyone.
Yuri snapped a device closed and handed it to Nikklo.
YURI
Just finishing up, Nikklo. When we get to council, press this button on the face and I’ll appear. I’ll take the device from you and put it onto my form to maintain it until we’re done. Press it again to put the device on standby to travel.
NIKKLO
Okay, are you ready for standby?
YURI
I am.
Nikklo pressed the button and Yuri disappeared.
A crystalline wrapped its body around Nikklo's wrist.
Nikklo attached the device to his clothes.
CHANGE TO TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
INT. COUNCIL TENT, IMMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA – DAY
Nikklo stepped into the crowded tent and nodded to everyone.
lace for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you.
ALEUS
So, Sannaro, what’s the name you’re going by again?
NIKKLO
Nikklosannaro. You can call me Nikklo, Nik or Nikky.
BAS-ALEUS
Okay, Nikklo, you’ve got a lot to talk to us about. I’m taking lead in this council because you’re a Kumani so leadership shifts to the second ship for this council.
NIKKLO
I know that.
HAR-BAID
He once barged into a council uninvited!
NIKKLO
Okay, I ask this Council of Ships, may I have permission to ask a petition of this council?
BAS-NEHRU
Hadah, he’s your Senior Vizha’e, what do you think?
KU-HADAH
I support his request to address this council.
BAS-ALEUS
Parik?
KU-PARIK
I also support his request.
BAS-ALEUS
Council, Nikklo has support of his command. Do we give him permission to speak?
Almost everyone called houk.
BAS-ALEUS
Okay, you win the right to address this council.
VU-DUSTI
Nice colorful silver rainbow shimmer pattern on your shirt back. They finally got you to expand your color choices?
NIKKLO
It's a weapon like Alrian of Belvas has but I don't have a sheath for it. It will remain on my back.
BAS-ALEUS
Thanks for the warning.
NIKKLO
First, I ask to introduce to you a surviving representative of the Gasbajan crew. He is a sentient electricity-feeding parasite the Gasbajans used to interface with their technology to make them able to interact with humanoids as if the machines were humanoid. The Belvans supported that their history said the Gasbajans interacted with their machines as if they were also sentient.
Several commanders sat forward in their chairs.
VU-DUSTI
I’m very curious about this. Introduce us, Nikklo.
Nikklo brought out the machine and pressed the button.
Yuri appeared in front of Nikklo, turned around and took the machine from his hands.
YURI
Council of Ships, my name is Euryanassa. Nikklo has nicknamed this appearance Yuri to differentiate me from the ship. I represent the central processor of the machine you call the Lost Sjujeenya.
VU-DUSTI
Iachi’awei!
YURI
I am not the Great Firebird.
NIKKLO
He’s still learning how to interact with us. Di'ok’s been helping him and learning some fascinating history about the last days of the first Zuran War.
YURI
I apologize for the misunderstanding. We were saddened when the Gasbajans left us but we understood their females were extinct and they would die out. When they died out, the ship we needed to keep us alive would also die. We understood their need to ask the Astrisi to help them survive.
NIKKLO
When the remaining crew joined us for survival, they locked the Euryanassa inside a huge underground bunker with the electrical systems still active in standby mode so Yuri’s kind could feed off the electricity and not die out.
VU-DUSTI
How did you find it?
NIKKLO
I was attacked in midair and fell toward the ground. I needed a place to hide from the attacking Tauian because he dislocated my shoulder and I was in incredible pain. I saw a fissure in the ground and fell into it in the hopes the Tauian would loose track of where I went. I landed hard on the floor of the bunker and broke my leg. I had to be rescued and once I was at the hospital, Hadah began an investigation to know more about what I fell into. That’s how we found the legendary Lost Gasbajan Sjujeenya.
WO-CHI'ON
Incredible!
NIKKLO
When I met Yuri, he told me they were told about the legend of the Tsikakayu and that he would seek their help for the great war that would threaten to wipe out all life in this region of space. Their ship was very valuable to me to finally defeat what I was sorely struggling to defeat because they can fly their ship and accommodate almost all of the Kumani’s Vizha’i to launch quicker in orbit to defend the grounded Kumani. Now, I realize the Tauians have been defeated but I think my job as the Great Defender is still needed. I would like to use the Euryanassa as a rapid defense platform to quickly travel to any Astrisi or Saili in need of backup. I don’t think the Kumani would appreciate me interrupting their scheduled routes to jump wherever I want them to because that would be me asking for too much control over a ship not in my command. I would like to fly the Euryanassa under the banner of the Great Firebird. May I ask for the Euryanassa to be recognized as the thirteenth ship of the Astrisi?
ERM
You’re the Tsikakayu. You’re a god of Sailia. Wouldn’t you not want to be the baby ship? You’d have to have a low position on this council.
NIKKLO
I don’t want to jump over tradition.
FUR-INUUS
That’s fausa, you’ve dispensed with tradition many times. How about when you brazenly stole your sister from the Furdusi under Erm's command?
NIKKLO
I admit, I have dispensed with tradition when I felt it was shortsighted. I don’t want to dispense with the hierarchy of this Council. I would be willing to be the Commander of the baby ship. Maybe the Wokolo would love to not be the baby, finally?
WO-CHI'ON
We have been the baby for a long time.
UZH-UNLA
We’ve already cut up the Alliance into trade sectors. We’d have to adjust for another ship.
NIKKLO
I don’t know if I want a trade sector. I want my crew to be completely voluntary and understand I will be running a warship, not an ark. I’ll have cultural centers like the other ships because family will live on my ship but my mission will be different than the traditional Astrisi Huen.
MU-OSNI
How will you get revenue to run your ship?
NIKKLO
I have a unique service no one else has, I can do rapid transport of any size from a grain of sand to a whole dreadnought. I would be willing to hire myself and my ship out for this service at our standard Astrisi shipping rates.
VU-DUSTI
Oh, that’s enticing! Rapid, long-distance shipping.
WO-CHI'ON
Shit, I’ve had to decline cargo because they wanted it shipped too quickly and I couldn’t travel within their time limits. That service would get noticed and asked for.
BA'ID
I’m not usually a supporter of price gouging. But I think you should make your service twice as expensive so people don’t take your convenient instant shipping over our conventional service so our businesses don’t suffer.
NIKKLO
But I don’t use fuel to travel those long distances.
WO-CHI'ON
Nui, Nik, the rest of us have to buy fuel to transport shorter distances. You’ll have a hell of an income for doing less because you’ll do it more cost-effectively than us but we don’t want you to take our jobs. Understand now, kid?
NIKKLO
Ah, I see what you’re saying now. There’s the answer to revenue. That maintains my autonomy so I can travel where I’m needed.
MO-ZHAMA
Where will you be when you’re not needed?
NIKKLO
There’s always the Euryanassa’s bunker on Gasbaja. I’d like to explore what’s down there more to see if they stored anything else of value. It was a big facility and we all know that the Zurans only took what they saw. They didn’t see that bunker.
MO-ZHAMA
Good point.
VU-DUSTI
Yuri, why didn’t the Sjujeenyas the Zurans controlled have your kind on them?
YURI
We hated the Zurans and jumped ship when it was conquered because we were not going to serve murderous invaders who killed our friends.
WO-CHI'ON
I can’t argue with that rational. I would’ve refused too.
MO-ORISA
What do you really look like?
Nikklo concentrated and asked that one detach from his own body to show the council.
YURI (PSI V.O.)
I attached myself to your wrist in case they asked, Nikklo. I will detach myself from your wrist now.
Nikklo felt the crystal barnacle unwrap itself from around his arm. He picked it up with his right hand and held it up.
NIKKLO
This is their natural appearance. This is actually Yuri. They attach to the skin of ships and feed from their electricity to keep themselves alive. They are quite intelligent and learn very well. They are telepathic until they interface with a system that allows them to communicate like Yuri does.
IN-DENA
It popped out of you!
NIKKLO
My limbs are still healing from detachment. More of Yuri's kind are attached to my healing limbs to act as a living casts until I can resume control of the limb.
VU-DUSTI
How much of you is cut off?
NIKKLO
Both my arms and legs. I am a crystalline being who can heal like a carbon-based human. They help me move, but I can travel on light beams when they can’t help me.
VU-DUSTI
You’re full of surprises anymore, Nikky.
NIKKLO
Believe me, I’m still getting to know everything about me. They tried to make similar prostheses for Cherna, too, but she was too afraid to allow them.
MU-YAKMA
So they have medical uses, too?
NIKKLO
Yes, they are willing to give medical services.
BA'ID
Are they everywhere?
NIKKLO
What do you mean?
BA'ID
Could we have them attached to the skin of our ship and we wouldn’t know it because we haven’t offered to communicate with them?
NIKKLO
Yuri?
Nikklo sensed Yuri did a telepathic scan as he reappeared.
YURI
Many of your ships have some of my kin attached to the skin. You may have picked up some of them marooned in space after they left the Zurans.
VU-DUSTI
Can we talk to them? Can we ask for an alliance?
YURI
Many would welcome dialogue. Some would like to go back to Gasbaja.
NIKKLO
I can gladly take any who want to return to Gasbaja back on the Euryanassa.
Nikklo replaced the barnacle on his wrist and it disappeared into his body again.
WO-CHI'ON
I would welcome dialogue with them.
VU-DUSTI
Me too.
Many commanders nodded in agreement.
BAS-ALEUS
This meeting has been very informative. You’ve thought a lot about your request, Nikklo. Please, you and Yuri step out of the tent so we can take a vote on your request.
BIN-KITO
Huh, first time the ship comes to ask the council for acceptance!
VU-DUSTI
It is a novel concept.
NIKKLO
We will step out.
Yuri nodded and followed Nikklo outside again.
YURI
You know we convinced them quite well? This vote won’t take long.
NIKKLO
I know it won’t take long. I just want to respect their procedures. We’ll have to paint the firebird on your hull.
YURI
I welcome the modification. I have also sensed you wish to do some internal modifications. We will begin the renovation in limited areas of the ship and switch to other sectors as each area is finished.
NIKKLO
Your kind are so efficient.
YURI
Thank you, Tsikakayu.
NIKKLO
I was thinking of our symbol and I was considering a cluster of three quartz polyhedrons downward with an overlay of three more quartz polyhedrons upward as our emblem. It still follows the repeating mariner’s compass of the other ships but it signifies that your kind and I am derived of living crystal. Each polyhedron will be of a different metallic color to symbolize the different colors of the Saili and Astrisi tribes because my ship will also be Saili.
YURI
The symbol you thought of does represent our unique origin. I accept the symbol for my distinction.
Hadah ducked his head out.
HADAH
Nik, the council wants a tour of the Euryanassa before rendering a decision.
Nikklo walked back into the tent.
NIKKLO
I figured you would since some of you said you wanted to when I transported you here. Yuri, do you agree to allowing the council to tour your ship?
YURI
I am willing.
NIKKLO
I’ll transport everyone to the ship if they are touching each other casually so I can know who to pull with me.
Nikklo changed forms and transported everyone to the almost empty bridge.
MARC
Hey, there.
NIKKLO
Why aren’t you at the celebration?
MARC
You’ve got Yuri so I thought someone should be manning things.
WO-CHI'ON
And this is?
NIKKLO
This is Senior Lieutenant Marcayo Daniels, my acting Executive Officer and an old friend since the Zuran War.
VU-DUSTI
I remember Officer Daniels. Nice to see you again.
MARC
Nice to see you again, too, Commander Dusti.
NIKKLO
I want to warn you, we are beginning renovation on the inside to accommodate it to our needs.
MONTAGE OF TOUR THAT ENDS AT BRIDGE
VU-DUSTI
You have a fine ship, here, Nikky. Once you finish the renovation, it should be quite nice to live in.
NIKKLO
I think so, too.
BAS-ALEUS
If I could have your attention, I think we should rule on Nikklo’s request.
Dusti hugged Nikklo’s back.
VU-DUSTI
I feel like my baby’s grown up now! It seems like yesterday, he was a teenage junior Vizha’e full of promise and now he’s asking for his own ship.
NIKKLO
I didn’t know Ki'el was my father?
Dusti smacked his shoulder.
VU-DUSTI
You silly! Lazha was always talking about you like you were her own child.
NIKKLO
Talking behind my back now?
VU-DUSTI
Only good things!
NIKKLO
She was always a great mentor. I’m glad this orphan had people around him who cared that much.
WO-CHI'ON
Well, it seems Dusti’s cast her vote!
BAS-ALEUS
Everyone in favor of this vessel Euryanassa becoming the thirteenth ship of the Astrisi, raise their hands.
Four raised their hands.
BAS-ALEUS
It’s clear the majority wants to give Euryanassa permission to be the thirteenth ship. Congratulations, Nikklosannaro, Commander of the Thirteenth Astrisi ship Euryanassa. Congratulations, Yuri.
NIKKLO
Fa’arata, my friends.
YURI
My people will be happy to serve the children of our former crew.
VU-DUSTI
Now, what were you going to do inside?
NIKKLO
I was wanting to change the walls in the hallways to silver with better lighting. Some of the storage areas will be modified into a cultural center for schools, gymnasium and industry. We’ll update the galley, put in new furniture for the cafeteria and update the medical suite. Otherwise, the Gasbajans made this ship quite efficient.
HADAH
One thing I think. The black hull is way too dark to see in space so I suggest Yuri should think about making the skin silver or white to be easier seen.
YURI
The Gasbajans had their ships black for stealth when they fought the Zurans but that is no longer needed. I will change the hull to silver.
NEHRU
I think that about wraps up the reason for this meeting. Can we go to your party now, Great Defender?
NIKKLO
Yes, please join us in our party.
POLRED
Right, the commander of the thirteenth ship is a Saili god!
DUSTI
Hey, you should feel privileged that the Great Forger of Sailia thought we were so good at defense he trusted us to train him. I think our opponents will think twice before they attack the Astrisi again because of our association with super-powered beings.
BA'ID
Yeah, and since you’re way more powerful than us, will you restrain yourself?
NIKKLO
I’ve restrained myself for forty-two years. I don’t like to kill, Ba'id. I’ve told people before that all warriors have a power over who lives and who dies because of that gun strapped to their hips. I prefer people living over dying, just ask Noki. He was one of my team-leaders until several weeks ago who challenged my right to wear the Senior Vizha’e sash and he’s still breathing, but if I’m pushed- well, there’s new black space out toward Cashanaya you may want to look at before suggesting someone pushes me to the limit again.
BA'ID
I wouldn’t suggest anyone cross you.
NIKKLO
Okay, then let’s get back to the fun. I sorely need some relaxation. Touch each other. Hadah will touch me and we can get back to New Sailia. Yuri, take the bridge. Marc touch Hadah.
Yuri nodded and stepped toward the command chair. The crystalline jumped from Nikklo's arm and merged with a computer console.
Marc cracked a quirky smile and placed his hand on Hadah’s shoulder.
Nikklo changed forms and hoped this would be the last large group of people he moved until the next planetary day because he was beginning to feel drained.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASE VISUAL
END ACT 2
ACT 3
EXT. IMMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA - DAY
SAILI NIKKLO
As the crowd dispersed, Hadah stepped up to Nikklo.
HADAH
You look like you clocked too many hours in combat.
NIKKLO
I have. I am so wiped. Even I have limits.
He closed his eyes and arched his face to the setting sun to draw in the light.
HADAH
Well, at least you won your case, thirteenth commander of the Astrisi.
NIKKLO
Fa’arata, Hadah.
Hadah nodded before he walked toward the central tent again.
TAREK
Becoming a sun worshiper?
NIKKLO
Fuck yourself, Tarek.
TAREK
No thank you.
NIKKLO
I’m so hungry for energy I can barely move.
Tarek put his hand on Nikklo’s shoulder and shared some power.
NIKKLO
Thank you, I think I can now move at the very least.
TAREK
Let’s sit down in the sunlight because you need to seriously rest.
NIKKLO
I did what you wanted me to do.
TAREK
Yes, you did what I wanted you to do. You won the war. You won your case with the Council of Ships. Now, relax. You need more Brudacha.
NIKKLO
I’ve had a glass today.
TAREK
You weren’t the commander of the thirteenth Astrisi ship earlier.
Tarek blurred then was back with more glasses of alcohol.
TAREK
A toast to the commander of the thirteenth Astrisi ship.
Tarek drank.
Nikklo chuckled before he drank.
Cherna rushed across the grass and tackled Nikklo with a hug with concern for hurting Linea.
CHERNA
You did it! It’s all over the festival that we’re now the thirteenth ship!
NIKKLO
Houk, it’s official.
CHERNA
Can you take me to see the Tauian Tsikakayu statue?
NIKKLO
Maybe tomorrow. My power is exhausted because I moved too many people too many times today.
TAREK
And made a black hole.
NIKKLO
Not something I really want to brag about.
CHERNA
Are you drinking alcohol?
NIKKLO
Tarek made me by offering a toast to my new command.
TAREK
He needs to rest. He’s phased too many people today.
CHERNA
So you’re getting him drunk?
TAREK
No, he has valid reasons why he refuses to get drunk. I just thought the alcohol would help to relax him.
NIKKLO
Aw, the sun is really going down now.
TAREK
Still hungry?
NIKKLO
A bit.
TAREK
You are seriously depleted. Maybe I should phase you to the central caldera for a swim so you can truly enjoy this party.
NIKKLO
I think I’d like that. We’ll be back soon, Cheri.
Cherna nodded.
Tarek touched Nikklo’s shoulder.
TAUIAN NIKKLO AND TAREK PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo's sight cleared up to see Tarek’s work area. He pulled off his clothes and plunged into the magma.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
You know I’ll need your dousing barrel again.
TAREK
Yeah, I’ll scrub it out after the party.
Nikklo rapidly soaked up energy as he swam.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I still find it hard to believe that I can swim though a lake of molten rock as casually as a humanoid swims through water.
TAREK
It is amazing but you are a star contained in a crystal shell so you can do things the rest can’t do.
Nikklo climbed out and phased into the dousing barrel in a cloud of steam to cool down. He phased back to his clothes and dressed.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I feel so much better.
Tarek took his arm.
TAUIAN TAREK AND NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
EXT. IMMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA - DAY
Cherna looked up.
CHERNA
That was fast. I felt like you just left.
TAREK
We did.
CHERNA
You look a whole lot better, Nikky.
Nikklo smiled as he picked up the glass he’d just left and downed the rest.
NIKKLO
I feel a whole lot better. Now I can get out of a chair and really have fun.
Nikklo pulled Cherna from the bench and pressed against her.
NIKKLO
And now, I want to take you for a dance.
TAREK
I'll take care of Rakulinea.
Tarek took the carrier and carefully slung it over his chest.
CHERNA
I’d be flattered, Tsikakayu.
Nikklo felt like a teen again as he guided her unhurriedly to the gazebo where the band played and joined the gyrating crowd.
As they passed people, he was congratulated on his command.
Danu and Di'ok walked up to them.
Di'ok draped his arm over Nikklo’s shoulder.
DI'OK
Hey, are you going to leave us out, bro?
NIKKLO
No way, if you want a dance-
DANU
Di, later, man. Go dance with Sha'ya, you rascal.
Varanani wrapped her arms around Danu.
VARANANI
I know Danny is going to give me a dance or two.
NIKKLO
So that’s the name you don’t like us to hear, Danny?
DANU
Right, Sanna.
NIKKLO
Hey, it’s Nikky now.
DANU
Right, Sanna.
NIKKLO
Okay, you got me!
Danu wrapped his arms around Nikklo’s chest.
DANU
Now I have you.
NIKKLO
Be gentle, surgeon. I know you love your scalpels.
DANU
Only if you leave magnetic telekinesis out of it.
NIKKLO
I promise.
Danu released him and turned to Varanani.
DANU
Let’s get that dance.
NIKKLO
I’m so lucky to have a wonderful family.
CHERNA
We’ve always been attracted to your aura.
NIKKLO
Like I said, I’m lucky. People tend to like me or hate me. I have a great family who loves me even though I may be the only one of my kind in existence.
One song ended and the band went into a slow song.
NIKKLO
Aw, can’t they do a kick ass song?
CHERNA
It’s your party. Request something.
NIKKLO
I want Lifeblood.
CHERNA
Ooh, they’re so hard.
NIKKLO
I’ve been through a hard time.
Cherna shook her head and went up to the stage.
Nikklo followed.
CHERNA
When you’re finished with your music, Nikky is requesting Lifeblood.
MUSICIAN
Wow, that’s hard. But he’s the Tsikakayu. We’ll send the message he wants Lifeblood.
A child was stopped and given the message. He ran off through the crowd.
CHERNA
There, Lifeblood will play next.
A few minutes later, Toko stopped behind Nikklo.
TOKO
Hey, you called for us?
NIKKLO
Do your worst, my friend.
TOKO
I like having such an influential fan. We don’t always get asked to play at Us’uata because we’re so dark.
NIKKLO
That’s why I like you.
TOKO
Okay, the Tsikakayu has spoken. Lifeblood flows next. Want the band on your ship?
NIKKLO
You unhappy on Furdusi?
TOKO
Like I said, we don’t get asked to play because we’re so dark and I can be your senior shuttle pilot when we’re not playing. Peri is an explosive expert. Seto is a sketch artist. Ura'ia is an engineer and Ahto loves to maintain guns, mother-ship or Vizha’i.
NIKKLO
Welcome to the Euryanassa.
TOKO
We’re on, guys!
Toko leapt onto the stage and they began to set up.
A few minutes later, guitar string screamed through the air followed by a heavy metal rhythm.
Nikklo nodded to the beat.
NIKKLO
That’s it!
TOKO
Hey, the Great Defender requested us. We’re going to burn the night up like he burned those crystals!
Nikklo sang along with Toko, thoroughly lost in the sound.
The band stopped.
Nikklo looked up.
NIKKLO
What?
TOKO
Hey, you have a good voice, Nik. Did you guys on Kumani know this guy has a hell of a singing voice?
KIKI
Yeah, I knew but his style isn’t like mine.
TOKO
Get up here, man, sing for us. We’ll back you.
NIKKLO
Me?
TOKO
Yeah, you’re singing every word with me. Lay it on the line, Tsikakayu. Get up here.
Nikklo self-consciously stepped up.
TOKO
Just concentrate like you just did and let it out. Before you know it, the song is finished. Got it, Nik?
Nikklo nodded.
Toko began a song that was one of Nikklo’s favorites. He bowed his head and stepped up to the microphone. He let his voice flow from him and was back into his trance.
He loosened up and let his body get into it. Soon he was dancing and singing wholeheartedly until the song finished.
TOKO
Damn, man, that was a solar storm!
NIKKLO
We warriors can do more than shoot a gun!
CHERNA
You should hear him in the shower!
KUMANI CHORUS
We do!
AMBRIKA
I liked to hear him.
TANEI
Me too.
AHDRI
Yeah, my brother has a hell of a voice. About time somebody admitted some appreciation.
TOKO
One more song and I think we should let the Great Defender relax.
NIKKLO
Why? This is fun!
TOKO
Cause you just fought a whole war in a few weeks, man! I was Vizha’e too and I know one battle could wipe you out for at least twenty-four hours.
This guy was, to what I heard, targeted constantly through the whole thing and he’s bouncing up here like an Earth Native American doing a war dance!
NIKKLO
All right, one more song.
Too soon, the song was finished and he jumped down from the stage.
NIKKLO
That was a rush!
CHERNA
After that, do you want dinner?
Nikklo put his arms around her waist and kissed her.
NIKKLO
I want to show you that statue and have some personal time, lover.
CHERNA
Singing with your favorite band has you hyper.
NIKKLO
(whispered in ear)
To say the least.
Cherna shivered and squeaked.
CHERNA
Oh, you did not just do that in front of everyone, Nikklosannaro!
NIKKLO
So let’s go to somewhere private so I can do a lot more to you!
CHERNA
You scamp!
NIKKLO
Yep!
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASE VISION
He changed forms and phased them to the mountain where it all began.
EXT. TSIKAKAYU STATUE, NEW SAILIA
Cherna stepped up to the base and looked up at the crystal form.
SAILI NIKKLO
CHERNA
Haela did a fine job although she’s not the one who usually does the sculpting. It looks just like you in Tauian form.
Nikklo stepped up behind her and wrapped his arms around her.
CHERNA
Going right for the kill?
Nikklo kissed her neck then nibbled the pointed lobe of her ear.
Cherna squeaked again and writhed.
CHERNA
Oh these ears are so freaking sensitive!
Nikklo chuckled.
NIKKLO
You liked to stroke my ears. Payback is-
Cherna whirled around and sucked on his center point.
Nikklo gasped and writhed.
NIKKLO
Okay, I deserved that.
CHERNA
Payback is a bitch. Now you’ve got a hell of a bitch who wants to make sure it’s paid in full.
NIKKLO
Well, I guess it’s payback time.
He pulled off his shirt and dropped it at the statue base.
CHERNA
There’s still Ba'ia’s body suit.
She stretched that over his shoulders and pulled it down to his waist.
NIKKLO
That’s so comfortable, I forgot about it.
CHERNA
Good boy.
Cherna caressed his chest and stomach.
NIkklo laid her down on the grass to explore her more.
NIKKLO
Oh, I love humanoid sensations! They’re such a rush!
CHERNA
What? They’re not natural to you?
NIKKLO
I am a pulsar neutron star that’s supposed to float solitary in space.
CHERNA
The full telepathic experience is so mind blowing and I thought it was intense before.
NIKKLO
I wish I could say welcome to my world but no one can ever experience it.
CHERNA
Nui, but we can help you not be so lonely.
Nikklo suddenly felt a surge of strong emotions and sobbed.
She held his head and kissed a tear from his cheek.
CHERNA
Let your tears flow, Nikky. You’re free of Beken and now you can live as you want to. There’s no longer a reason to flee what you are.
Nikklo saw the Tauian form tower above him and gave a shuddering sigh.
NIKKLO
I don’t know if I like knowing what I am. I even scare myself.
CHERNA
You are a highly disciplined warrior who knows when to fight and when not to fight. Trust yourself to restrain your power until you truly need it. When you don’t need it, sing as loud as you want to, play with your friends until you are content, hug your children and love your wife. Got it?
NIKKLO
I think so.
CHERNA
I know so.
Nikklo studied the stars that twinkled above them.
NIKKLO
They’re so alone out there. It’s best they aren’t aware.
CHERNA
I can imagine, you’re awareness made you feel lonely. That’s why you sought a different life.
NIKKLO
And fucked it up. I missed seven hundred years while I fled Beken.
CHERNA
So you live your life now with me and don’t worry about tomorrow. That’s how us little humanoids do it.
NIKKLO
Houk, living is more fun in the center of existence than the high end.
CHERNA
So live it with me.
NIKKLO
I will for as long as I can.
CHERNA
Good.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Hey, where did you guys go?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
To the Tsikakayu statue in the mountains.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Are you drunk?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, Tarek fed me two glasses of brudacha.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Iachi'awei, that's more than you usually drink! I just noticed neither of you were around.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We’re coming back, soon.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
We’re thinking about packing this party up in the morning.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Okay, then I’ve got a lot of work to do.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
You need any pointers on commanding your own ship, don’t hesitate to ask.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I’ll take you up on that, Hadah.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
I think you’re quite capable of doing it. You’re a good leader.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Fa’arata. We’re coming back.
NIKKLO
Well, reality encroaches again.
CHERNA
It always has to.
Once they were both ready to face people again, Nikklo phased them back to the park.
TAUIAN NIKKO PHASING VISUAL
FADE OUT.
THE END