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 – RELOCATION
BY: LYSSA THORNE
FADE IN:
EXT. EMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA – NIGHT
The sun was beginning to rise spectacularly when Tarek who still held Rakulinea in the shoulder hammock met them with brows arched.
TAREK
There you are and that was hot. You've obviously both decided to fall in love with each other again.
CHERNA
Did you hear Nikky sing?
TAREK
I sure did. Didn’t know you did that either.
CHERNA
I told you he’s fun. Especially after you got him drunk.
TAREK
He's such a light-weight. I’ve missed so much time not knowing my own son.
CHERNA
You guys can visit each other as much as you want with your instant phasing. You should spend time together.
TAREK
I think I should, Cherna.
NIKKLO
Why not.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Nikklo, can I interrupt you?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Go ahead.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I want to leave now. There are surviving Tauians scattered around this area. I wish to gather them together and lead them to a new peaceful existence.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
So the crystallines offered to heal you?
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
They did. They realized that I was just as tortured as you were. They're helping me regrow the lower part of my body.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I hope you can lead them to a new peace and prosperity.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
You did demand that we acknowledge you as our leader. We will follow your leadership. I know you’re still hurting from what Beken did to you. We also hurt.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Keep me updated.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I thank you, Tsikakayu, for fulfilling your promise to me and the other Tauians. You may not like us very much but we are still your people and I will sing your praises for freeing us.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We Astrisi say, until we meet again. Be well, Ilanit.
TAREK
There they go. I wish them well.
NIKKLO
So do I.
CHERNA
What?
NIKKLO
Ilanit is gathering the Tauians to rebuild their lives.
CHERNA
That’s a good thing to do.
TAREK
She still has some training to do.
NIKKLO
Houk, she does. She’ll be alright.
HADAH strode up to them.
HADAH
There you are.
NIKKLO
Houk, I’m hard to keep up with.
HADAH
Very! By the way, the Furdusi isn’t happy with you that you took Lifeblood but Toko told them fuck you!
NIKKLO
I told everyone, membership on my ship is voluntary. Toko wants to be in my shuttle corps. He’s bringing some very talented people with him too.
HADAH
That was some performance you gave. Many people are talking about it.
NIKKLO
You know I’ve always been hiding in the shower.
HADAH
Do I! That was just Sannaro. We’ve all just laughed and went on with our business. Tarek, didn't you know if you get this guy drunk, he acts weird?
TAREK
No, I didn't know that. I only saw Nikky severely medicated once not drunk. I'm warned for the future.
HADAH
Nik, you’ve got a lot of people of considerable talent lining up to sign on with you. I think you should give them audience so you know who is requesting relocation.
NIKKLO
That’s a good idea. I’ll set up interviews in the main tent. Sorry, but I don’t think you’ll get Danu and Di'ok back.
HADAH
No surprise there. I’ll miss those two but they refuse to be separated from you.
NIKKLO
Time to get to work.
Cherna kissed him.
CHERNA
I’ll be by soon. I don’t know about you, but I’m hungry.
NIKKLO
Ah, you just had to mention that?
CHERNA
I’ll bring you a tray.
RAKULINEA (PSI V.O.)
Hungry!
Cherna took Rakulinea from Tarek.
CHERNA
Let's get you a bottle, sweetie.
RAKULINEA (PSI V.O.)
Want big fire in the sky and cool stuff to stop owe inside!
CHERNA
Has she been talking like this before?
NIKKLO
She told me she wanted me to take her out of you. I didn't stop to think about it before because we were in a threat situation, but now that everything's calm, houk, she's been doing that several times since she was born.
TAREK
She's communicating like a Tauian.
HADAH
It’s almost sunrise. I’m sure the chefs are serving breakfast.
Five Saili joined them.
ELTOWAKU
Tsikakayu, Trospintotah requests to perform for you. We were told you were a fan.
NIKKLO
Ha'iko! I accept! Wow, I got to sing with Lifeblood and now Trospintotah wants to perform for me.
ELTOWAKU
We would be honored to join you in your celebration, Tsikakayu.
NIKKLO
I have to hear Trospintotah before I begin the interviews!
HADAH
We’ll set up and wait for you to be ready.
CHERNA
Okay, I'll get Linea a bottle and you go listen to another of your favorite bands.
Cherna walked to the food tent with Rakulinea in her arms.
TAREK
Too hard for me. Although you kids have some good work.
ELTOWAKU
We’re honored, Great Forger.
TAREK
I prefer Crissateliss.
NIKKLO
They’re good too.
Trospintotah went to the stage and began their set-up.
NIKKLO
Everyone, I have been given a personal request from a New Saili band to play for me. They are called Trospintotah. Yes, they’re hard as I like it. Please welcome the Saili band Trospintotah!
The air split with a guitar wail.
Nikklo laughed and walked to the front of the stage as the singer began to sing.
A crowd gathered behind him and began to dance to the hard music.
NIKKLO
My kind of party!
KIKI
My turn next?
NIKKLO
Aw, I still like your music it’s just that I prefer hard.
KIKI
I guess it’s because you like the sound of screaming Vizha’i around you.
NIKKLO
Could be.
Nikklo joined the dance for ten minutes until Trospintotah bowed to the crowd and took down their equipment.
Kiki jumped onto the stage and began her set up.
Nikklo stepped off the dance floor for a while to catch his breath. He saw a group of Humans stride toward him dressed in ADF uniforms. He walked to meet them.
ADDISON
You're General Sannaro?
NIKKLO
I am.
ADDISON
Your ship goes so fast, I couldn't keep up with you. You still have one of my officers.
Jim Meyers stepped before his commanding officer.
JIM
Where's my partner, San?
NIKKLO
He's around here somewhere, Jim.
JIM
He just switched ships suddenly, I didn't know where he'd gone until Captain told me.
JIM (PSI V.O.)
What the hell did Hadeon do to him? When I get too near him, he seems to huddle into himself. I ask him what's going on and he gets quieter, as if he says anything, I'll betray him. God, it hurts me that I can't help my friend.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I'm sorry he's drawn away from you. He told me he's having trouble trusting his command.
JIM (PSI V.O.)
Does he think I betrayed him?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Not you. He's always had full confidence in his friendship with you.
JIM (PSI V.O.)
Please take me to him. I noticed people are calling you Nikky?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I now go by Nikklosannaro because Nikklo was my name before I suffered amnesia. They're calling me Nikky because that's the name I now prefer. I'll take you to him.
NIKKLO
Captain, if you don't mind, I'd like to guide Tech Officer Meyers to Lieutenant Daniels.
ADDISON
You have permission.
Nikklo led Jim through the party.
JIM
I forgot how fun Astrisi parties can be. Marc missed your culture. He said it reminded him of the Brocana, only more civilized.
NIKKLO
I know. I have a lock on him. Follow me.
JIM
Your talents are so amazing to me even after I've known you for over a century.
NIKKLO
I've just learned those I've used as Sannaro only scratch the surface of my abilities.
JIM
Shit, for real?
NIKKLO
For real.
INT. FOOD TENT, EMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA - DAY - CONTINUOUS
Nikklo entered the food tent and walked up to a table.
NIKKLO
Ki'iwa, brought another old friend with me. He wants to talk to you.
Marc looked up.
MARC
Oh, hiya, Jim.
JIM
Mind if I sit down?
Marc waved his hand at the chairs.
MARC
They're there for the picking.
Nikklo and Jim claimed chairs and sat around Marc's table.
JIM
Command wants a report. How did things go on San, uh, Nikky's ship?
MARC
Rough, it was a brutal fight but we kicked their asses.
JIM
You coming home?
Marc sighed and looked up at the colorful tent above him.
MARC
I don't think I want to go back, Jim.
JIM
I'm amazed that I'm not surprised. Hadeon hurt you badly.
MARC
It wasn't Hadeon. It was Selik. Warriors have to have complete trust in their command. Selik violated that trust. He handed me over to a fucking pirate for torture twice then helped to free Hadeon at the trial. I had to get skin grafts on my thigh because of Selik. Sorry, Jim, I'm out of forgiveness.
JIM
I thought as much. Hadeon did torture you terribly because Selik threw you to the wolves. I understand. I wish I could have been by your side.
MARC
No, I was glad you weren't with me.
NIKKLO
Trust me, Jim, that pirate ship was a nightmare. Even I became unsure we would leave there alive.
JIM
I saw Marc when he came back and he was severely beaten.
MARC
San was beaten worse than me.
NIKKLO
And Hadeon raped Cherna. She's still dealing with the trauma.
JIM
I thought you considered several times about going back to the Astrisi a long time ago. You left a part of your heart on the Kumani.
MARC
I think I did leave a part of my heart with the Astrisi. I'm retiring from the ADF and going with Nik. He's asked me to be his Executive Officer. I'm taking the offer.
JIM
So I guess this is the end of our partnership.
MARC
Yeah, but we had some great times, partner.
JIM
It was a grand adventure, Marcayo Daniels.
MARC
You know the Astrisi never say goodbye.
JIM
Yep, they say, until we meet again. I may come out here looking for you from time to time. I'll tell Malia. You going to tell Amber?
MARC
Yeah, I'll contact her soon.
JIM
Good luck, my friend.
MARC
Thanks.
JIM
And, my other friend, you take good care of Marc, San.
NIKKLO
I will, Jim.
Jim stood up.
JIM
Well, Koh-
NIKKLO
Kohura naki.
JIM
Yeah, kohura naki, Marc, San.
MARC
Kohura naki.
Jim gave a cocky salute and walked from the tent.
MARC
Well, let's get to those interviews.
NIKKLO
Yep, we got a busy day ahead of us.
Marc, Nikklo and Andoku walked together from the tent.
Andoku separated from Marc and Nikklo.
Nikklo worked to control his breathing as he trotted to the tent to begin his interviews.
He stopped at the rising sun to soak up the fresh rays of light. He saw Lazha sat in her hovering wheel chair also watching the rising sun. He walked to her.
NIKKLO
Ah, that feels good. First taste of the day is so sweet.
MARC
While you're basking in the sunlight, I'll set up the tent.
Marc walked on.
LAZHA
You going to sleep anytime soon or is that just for us lesser humanoids?
NIKKLO
Lazha, you made it.
LAZHA
I’m kind of forced to be slower than most.
She slapped the arms of her hover chair.
Nikklo turned to her and hugged her.
LAZHA
You know, Dusti’s right, yesterday you were a little boy crying in my arms and now you’re the commander of your own ship. Where did the time go?
NIKKLO
Light speed, Lazha.
LAZHA
And I hear that’s the speed you only go anymore.
Nikklo sat on the grass beside her chair.
NIKKLO
I treasure the time I can slow down.
LAZHA
We didn’t know how much of an orphan you were when we healed you.
NIKKLO
I didn’t either. Thanks for giving this wounded orphan a chance.
LAZHA
It was my pleasure. I hear Cheri gave birth to a baby girl?
NIKKLO
Houk, her name is Rakulinea.
LAZHA
Congratulations on being a father again. That was such a surprise.
NIKKLO
Thanks, it was a surprise to me too.
LAZHA
Wow, finally a pregnancy you didn't sense?
NIKKLO
Well, I was quite busy and I didn't have much time with her so it slipped past my senses.
LAZHA
That's what you get for trying to wear two sashes at the same time.
NIKKLO
Despite all the crazy power I have at my disposal, I still can’t heal your spine.
LAZHA
That’s okay.
NIKKLO
Tarek can make you Saili.
LAZHA
No, I’ll decline that offer. So you’re Nikklo now?
NIKKLO
That’s my original name. Nikky for short.
LAZHA
Okay, Nikky, I’m overjoyed to see Cherna has legs again but I’m okay where I am. Knowing you was good enough.
NIKKLO
You were also my trainer.
LAZHA
My privilege to be a trainer to a god who would save us all.
Nikklo blushed.
LAZHA
Aw, that tequila sunrise blush is still there. Some things never change. You know, I shared that crush you had on me? If I hadn’t had Ki'el, my thoughts would’ve wandered.
Nikklo buried his head in his hands.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
LAZHA
I’m glad I stayed your friend. I had a good life as your teacher.
She held her hand out.
Nikklo took her hand in his and kissed the back of her hand. He bowed his head to hide in his hair when he felt tears tickle his cheeks.
LAZHA
Aw, honey, don’t cry. Fate meant it this way.
NIKKLO
I wanted to save your spine.
LAZHA
That’s sweet but you know Zhad would’ve saved it if there had been anything to save. You had much more to do than save my back.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Would one of you crystallines on an Astrisi shuttle in parking like to merge with Lazha to reconnect her spine?
CRYSTALLINE
I would.
Nikklo summoned the one that responded and held out the almost transparent shelled creature.
NIKKLO
How about this? This crystalline can fuse with your spine and reconnect your nerves so you can learn to walk again.
Lazha smiled warmly and shook her head.
LAZHA
As enticing as that is-
He set it down on the arm of her chair.
NIKKLO
Keep it with you and think about it. You may need physical therapy to remember how to walk but it is an option open to you.
LAZHA
You are so kind. I’ll think about it. Now, dry your eyes, sweetheart, you have a lot more to do. I’ve kept you too long.
Nikklo dried his face on his sleeve and stood up.
NIKKLO
I’ll visit you.
LAZHA
You can travel faster than light but if you make yourself do too much, you’ll exhaust yourself. I’ll be okay. Now off with you.
Nikklo kissed her cheek and took one more look into her green eyes before he swept into the tent.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
INT. COUNCIL TENT, NEW SAILIA - DAY - CONTINUOUS
LAZHA (PSI V.O.)
You always looked so cute, you know that, Nikklosannaro?
Nikklo chuckled.
LAZHA (PSI V.O.)
Especially when you were shirtless. Oh boy, you’re stacked.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Tarek’s fault. He designed this body as a copy patterned from my crystalloid body.
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
Lazha, his crystalloid body is almost the same although I prefer his Saili body for the nice extra parts crystalloids don’t have.
LAZHA (PSI V.O.)
Tauians don’t have the mammalian- oh shit, Cherna. Make me faint from embarrassment!
Nikklo flushed and fell into the chair placed for him to sit in.
LAZHA (PSI V.O.)
That’s only for you, Cheri. Now, Nikky’s mental voice is getting strained. I think we need to stop teasing him.
Montage of nikklo and marc doing interviews.
INT. FOOD TENT, NEW SAILIA - DAY - CONTINUOUS
They walked into the cafeteria and joined the line for the buffet.
A few minutes later, they sat down with their trays and began to eat.
NIKKLO
Oh, I need this. I burn so much energy anymore.
MARC
You are a pulsar. Trospintotah was quite a wild band. I'm getting to know the underside of the Saili the formal Saili hide.
NIKKLO
Yeah, the underground is the more organic side of the Saili that is rarely seen by other races because they can't communicate like we Saili do. I find that culture more enjoyable than the overground. I learned from interviews that Giovano and Damira were a part of the underground so I fit there.
MARC
Two Saili cultures; that's very interesting.
NIKKLO
Lifeblood signed on with us.
MARC
Oh shit, that was one intense band and they’re going to live with us? You sang great with them, by the way.
NIKKLO
Fa’arata, they are my favorite band.
Hadah dropped into a chair beside Nikklo.
HADAH
This will be the last meal before we pack everything up and return to our ships. Will you be ready to transport ships back to their home sectors?
NIKKLO
Storing energy right now. If I need a quick replenish, I can swim in the central caldera at Misipatasutisga to get a fast boost.
HADAH
You swim in a lake of molten lava?
NIKKLO
Houk, in my crystalloid form it doesn’t burn me but I have to cool off before I change forms or I may burn my Saili form. That would seriously hurt. I’d have to reset from my crystal.
He gripped the quartz pendant that hung around his neck.
MARC
How do you cool down?
NIKKLO
I jump in Tarek’s dousing barrel! He gets annoyed every time!
HADAH
You are such a scamp, Nik.
MARC
Yep, that’s Nikky.
HADAH
He's doubly a scamp when he's drunk! I have to say you’re in for an interesting command, Marc.
MARC
I agree.
HADAH
Well, I’m getting ready to transport people back to the Kumani. Kohura, Nik, Marc.
MARC
Kohura’naki.
NIKKLO
Kohura, Hadah.
Hadah left.
MARC
You Astrisi are so relaxed. I think I’m going to like the informality.
COOK
Okay, everyone up and break down the tables. You too, Tsikakayu!
Nikklo stood up, took his tray and carried it to the stack. He folded his chair and set it on the grass. Then he moved to the table and folded it up.
Before Marc could fold up his own chair, he looked around at the empty tent.
MARC
Wow, you guys are fast.
NIKKLO
This is how we live.
Nikklo picked up chairs and stacked them on a hover bed that was brought in. He walked over to a few tables, hefted them and set them on the bed beside the chairs.
Marc grabbed a table and stacked it beside the ones Nikklo packed.
NIKKLO
When we’re told to break down, we break down quickly and efficiently so we can move on.
MARC
Like Earth Gypsies.
NIKKLO
We’re Space Gypsies. What do you expect?
EXT. EMANCIPATION PARK, NEW SAILIA – DAY - CONTINUOUS
As Nikklo walked across the grass to talk to Hadah, he heard a whisper from the shadows.
NOKI
Remember me, Nikklo?
NIKKLO
I’d rather not, Noki.
NOKI
I want to humiliate you on your first day of command like you humiliated me on Gasbaja.
NIKKLO
You had a better chance on Gasbaja than you do now. Take my advice, Noki, drop it and live.
NOKI
Not this time, alien.
NIKKLO
You can make this fast or slow, your choice.
NOKI
You really had a good time last night. It disgusted me how much you were pandered to.
NIKKLO
I won a war to keep us all live and out of slavery. If you can’t appreciate that, it’s your problem, not mine.
NOKI
You’re my problem, asshole.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah, Noki is challenging me near the main pavilion.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Oh great, coming.
Noki assumed a fighting stance.
Nikklo shook his head as he slipped into a defensive stance.
NIKKLO
Like I said, Noki, I don’t even have to use powers to defeat you, only martial arts.
Hadah ran up.
HADAH
Noki, stand down. Nik’s the commander of a different ship. You don’t have to deal with him anymore.
NOKI
That’s why I want to beat his sexually deviant ass before he goes.
NIKKLO
Ah, that’s the real problem you had with me?
NOKI
You exist, asshole.
NIKKLO
Oh, that, my aura chaffs you. Too bad. I leave and you don’t have to feel it anymore.
NOKI
I beat your ass and I’ll feel better.
NIKKLO
Empty promise because you can’t beat me.
HADAH
You know we’re on New Sailia where we have to follow their laws?
NIKKLO
But there’s still a snag if I transport us to the Kumani, I’m the Senior of Martial Arts until I choose my successor.
HADAH
Shit.
NIKKLO
Hadah, my staff will have to mediate. I’ll move us to the Kumani.
TAUIAN Nikklo changed forms, grabbed Hadah and touched Noki then grabbed a light beam up to the Kumani.
PHASING VISUAL
INT. KUMANI GYM
SAILI NIKKLO
Nikklo reappeared with Hadah and Noki inside the gym.
NIKKLO
Okay, we’re in a more appropriate place.
NOKI
Oh shit, what did you do?
NIKKLO
Transported us to the Kumani for our fight. Be glad I didn’t find a conveniently empty planet to maroon you on before I brought Hadah here. Meko, I need you for mediation.
MEKO
Houk, San, uh Nik, ready to mediate.
NIKKLO
Hadah, do I have permission to accept this challenge on your ship?
HADAH
Houk, Nik, since Noki won’t drop it.
NIKKLO
Since you seem to be a bit disoriented. Are you retracting your challenge?
NOKI
Someone needs to deflate your damned ego, Nikklosannaro!
NIKKLO
Maybe someone does, but it won’t be you. Really, you won’t win against me and I sent the person who stood the most chance of winning against me into a black hole.
HADAH
Man, give it up. Nikky is moving to the Euryanassa so you won’t have to work with him anymore.
NOKI
You’re fine with him humping anybody, Hadah?
HADAH
Hey, who are you to judge his sexuality? He is also a she who was raped and almost had a baby die because he’s mostly male. It’s a biological condition that has nothing at all to do with his skills as an unrivaled warrior! Nikky, I forcefully retract his challenge against you. I’ll take care of my pilot. Protocol Enforcers will take Noki into custody and I will deal with this as a Kumani matter.
Noki leapt around Meko and swung his fist at Nikklo.
FLASH TO TAUIAN NIKKLO
RETURN TO SAILI NIKKLO
Nikklo stopped the swing by cupping Noki's fist with one hand.
A crunching sound came from Noki's hand.
NIKKLO
You had the chance to end this the easy way.
Noki pulled his hand back and waved it through the air.
NOKI
Owe, my fingers are burning!
NIKKLO
You just slammed your hand into a hard rock shell and you're surprised it hurt?
NOKI
You're Saili right now. You said when you're Saili you feel like a Saili! Shit, it hurts!
Noki hugged his hand to his chest.
NIKKLO
But I can change my form at will. You just didn't see me change to Tauian when you swung at me. I stopped your hand then returned to Saili form. Hadah forcefully retracted your challenge. You refused to give it up. Now go to the hospital so they can repair your hand.
NOKI
You said you didn't need to use any more than martial arts!
Nikklo
I only used martial arts. I blocked your fist. I never promised I'd stay in Saili form.
Noki
You asshole!
Hadah burst out laughing.
HADAH
No, he's a scamp! Be glad he only broke your fingers.
Pirlo joined them from the elevator.
HADAH
Pirlo, escort Noki to the hospital to have his hand healed and keep him under guard. He and I need to have a serious talk.
Pirlo nodded, took Noki's arm and led him to the elevator.
NIKKLO
I could have done a whole lot worse to him but I've done enough damage to the universe for now. I declare Meko as my successor for the martial arts sash.
Nikklo untied his sash and handed it to Meko.
Meko bowed and took the sash.
MEKO
I am honored, master.
NIKKLO
I'm going to miss the Kumani, Hadah.
HADAH
I'm going to miss you, my friend. Thank you for helping me with my grief of losing No'ama. You're an uncommon man.
NIKKLO
I hope in all creation I am the only one of my kind. The universe may not survive having another being with my power in existence. Kohura’naki, Ku-Hadah.
HADAH
Kohura’naki, Eur-Nikklo.
Nikklo changed forms and returned to New Sailia.
Tarek appeared beside him.
TAREK
Ready to move ships?
NIKKLO
I am.
TAREK
Hey, kiddo, you’ll always meet people who don’t like what you are.
NIKKLO
I know but it doesn’t make the rejections any easier.
TAREK
No, it doesn’t. We’ll always be different than everyone else.
NIKKLO
Let’s get these ships moved.
TAUIAN NIKKLO AND TAREK
PHASE VISUAL MONTAGE OF NIKKLO AND TAREK PHASING ASTRISI SHIPS
Both men changed forms and phased to transport ships.
EXT./INT. MARC'S HOUSE, ARIZONA, EARTH – DAY
SAILI NIKKLO
Nikklo landed outside Marc’s modest house in Arizona on Earth. He calmly rang the doorbell.
The door opened and Amber(40) stepped out.
AMBER
Sannaro! I didn’t know you were around Earth! Come in!
Nikklo walked in and smiled at the Astrisi furniture until he remembered why he came. He schooled his features to neutrality as he followed her to the living room.
AMBER
Please, have a seat.
Nikklo settled on a couch.
AMBER
Marc isn’t home right now. He’s on a deep space mission. In fact, I think he was called because you Astrisi were having another conflict. He gets called on a lot for those missions anymore.
NIKKLO
I know. He told me. Even though he’s not home, I’m here on his behalf. He says he thinks his marriage is getting more strained.
Amber huffed and dropped into a chair.
ANDOKU sat down.
ANDOKU
Dad, can I talk to you?
NIKKLO
Sure, Andu.
ANDOKU
I know I'm the Senior Potter on Kumani but I don't know if I'm ready to separate from you and Mom.
NIKKLO
Of course you can come with us to Euryanassa.
ANDOKU
Fa'arata, I also need to get to know my new little sister. You know, that was quite a shock to learn Mom gave birth to a baby sister only a week after you raised Euryanassa out of its bunker?
NIKKLO
You're not the only one stunned about it. Just as I was learning to live with this new identity, I learned something mind-shattering about it that I didn't know about. Are you okay with me being a gender mosaic?
ANDOKU
It explains a lot about your personality that fits. So, I'm okay with your gender mosaic physiology. Well, I'm going to have to tell Ki'ya Adara I'm giving her back her senior sash. Later, Dad.
NIKKLO
Later, Andu.
AMBER
I don’t know what to do. He’s become so moody.
NIKKLO
He no longer trusts his command.
AMBER
What can I do about that?
NIKKLO
Not much more than support what he chooses to do next.
AMBER
Oh yeah, try to pry that out of him!
NIKKLO
I don’t have to. I know what he wants to do. He wants to retire from the ADF and join the Astrisi.
Amber stood up rigidly.
AMBER
He wants to move us to the rim worlds? He thinks he can not tell me and just run us away to the outer planets? He’s nuts, Sannaro!
Amaranta (16) rushed into the living room.
AMARANTA
Is Dad home? Hi, San.
Amber waved her arm angrily.
AMBER
No, he wants to run off to the rim worlds because he doesn’t trust his command anymore!
NIKKLO
Marc is hurting, Amber. He knows he’s drifted from you and it’s causing him pain. I want to give you the chance to talk things out with him because Hadeon was told to target me and Marc got in the way so he was pulled into my punishment. I just want to try to clean up the mess I made.
AMBER
You caused all this?
NIKKLO
Something I did in the past motivated a person to send Hadeon after me. Hadeon was almost successful but because of his failure, this current conflict happened. Now that war is over, I want to help Marc to heal.
AMBER
It takes weeks to fly out there. I don’t want to be stuck in a transport for weeks.
NIKKLO
I can take you to my ship in minutes.
AMBER
It’s too far.
Nikklo sighed in frustration.
AMARANTA
Mom, Dad’s been so sad since he came back from Centauria.
AMBER
I know he has, Ama, I just don’t know how to deal with it!
AMARANTA
But he’s my Dad! I want to help my Dad! You just don’t understand!
AMBER
It’s not that I don’t understand, Ama!
AMARANTA
Since we came back from Alpha Centauri Seven, I've had to change schools three times and endure being called Juanita Flores! I'm sick of seeing ADF officers in disguise sitting outside our house!
AMBER
Don't you think I get tired of having to respond to the name Maria Flores when I'm not at work?
AMARANTA
You just don’t want to give up your comfortable house and your comfortable job to help my Dad who is hurting! Sannaro, let’s go!
Amaranta stomped to the door.
AMBER
Amaranta Junilina Daniels, you're too young to go out on your own!
Amaranta balled her fists and glared rigidly at her mother.
AMARANTA
I have Brocana blood! I’m not Human like you are! I’m not afraid to live out in the wild and I'm not going out on my own! Sannaro is taking me to visit the Astrisi! I'm going to go comfort my Dad because I’m not going to leave my Dad sad and alone! You stay and keep your stupid house! I'm going to pack!
She whirled away to go to her bedroom to pack.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
Nikklo turned to Amber.
NIKKLO
You still don’t want to go?
Amber bowed her head and shook it.
NIKKLO
If she needs to return later for more, I can come back quickly for them but we have many ways to get what she needs.
Amber turned away to hide her tears.
AMBER
I tried, Sannaro. Maybe Ama’s right, I’m not wild like a Brocana.
NIKKLO
We all have our priorities.
AMBER
You think I’m wrong?
NIKKLO
There’s no right or wrong in matters of the heart. There’s only perception. I understand that now painfully.
AMBER
Keep my baby safe, Sannaro.
NIKKLO
I’ll do everything in my power to keep her safe.
AMBER
I still love Marc. I just didn’t know how to help him through his pain. I’m in pain, too.
NIKKLO
Then help yourself heal first. You can work on yours and Marc’s relationship later.
AMBER
It sounds like you’re in pain too.
NIKKLO
My whole personal identity was torn apart. I have a lot of healing to do, too.
AMBER
You’re whole personal identity was torn apart? I don’t know what you mean.
NIKKLO
I’m not who I thought I was. I’m an amnesiac who had a hidden past with another name.
AMBER
Then who are you?
NIKKLO
Nikklosannaro. You can call me Nik or Nikky but it doesn’t matter if you still call me San or Sannaro.
AMBER
Wow, that’s a shock.
NIKKLO
I can’t begin to tell you how much of a shock it was to me. I still don’t understand all of it.
Amaranta returned with a nylon barrel bag slung over her shoulder.
AMARANTA
I’m ready. Take me to Dad.
NIKKLO
Amber, take care of yourself and keep your options open. I wish you well. I will need to touch you on the shoulder. You’ll feel a sinking feeling like you’re taking a quick elevator ride and when your vision clears, you’ll be on my ship.
AMARANTA
Okay, I’m ready.
Nikklo touched Amaranta’s shoulder, changed forms then phased them.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
SAILI NIKKLO
Nikklo landed them.
MARC
Ama!
MARC grabbed his daughter in an embrace.
AMARANTA
Mom didn’t come!
MARC
You went to Earth to talk to her?
NIKKLO
I told her about your decision and she wasn’t too excited about your change in careers. She needs to concentrate on her own feelings right now. Ama was ready to rip my head off if I didn’t take her to you.
Marc kissed her forehead.
MARC
I’ll try the best I can to take care of you, baby.
AMARANTA
I’m not leaving you alone. Mom can have her comfortable house and job. I’m a wild Brocana. I don’t mind wandering from planet to planet like our people wandered Kobihok ridge and I can visit Ambri all I want.
Marc hugged her again and tried to breathe back his emotions.
MARC
That’s my girl.
NIKKLO
Uh, Ambri is living on New Sailia right now.
AMARANTA
But don’t you like to visit New Sailia often?
NIKKLO
Yes, I do, I have relatives on both New Sailia and Sailia.
AMARANTA
So I’ll get to visit Ambri regularly!
NIKKLO
Your logic is sound and irrefutable. Andu can guide you around until you can function on your own in Astrisi society.
AMARANTA
I like Andu! His artwork is just gorgeous!
Marc sighed sadly.
NIKKLO
You’ll be okay, Marcayo. We’ll help you.
MARC
I know you will. Zak and Shanti moved into Dad’s estate after the pirate investigation anyway soon after Villanova put me in protective custody soon after Hadeon's death.
Tarek stopped at Nikklo’s side.
TAREK
Everyone’s back home.
NIKKLO
Good.
TAREK
You know my home is always yours too.
NIKKLO
I know, that’s why I said I have relatives on Sailia. I’m getting used to visiting a volcano.
MARC
All personnel, new and old are on board. Each ship gave us two shuttles to give us transport other than you.
NIKKLO
I was a bit busy.
MARC
I knew that. That’s why we moved the old fashioned humanoid way.
YURI
I am already making the device to change pods on the shuttles. The Vukutis offered us a spare device that is in need of minor repairs. I accepted it for you.
NIKKLO
That was a good offer. I’m glad you accepted it.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Okay, everyone, listen up. We’re finished here. I don’t know what we’ll do next because we’re free roaming. We’ll learn as we go how this new ship will be run. Bear with me since I’m a new Commander. The Euryanassa lives again. Let’s see what’s out there. Nikklo, out.
DEVASRU (PSI V.O.)
Good luck, nephew.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Thanks, uncle, take care of my Little Rose.
DEVASRU (PSI V.O.)
I will. She’s doing quite well leading the New Saili Defense Force.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Yes, she is.
DEVASRU (PSI V.O.)
Now you learn to lead your own ship. Visit often.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I will, uncle.
AMBRIKA (PSI V.O.)
And you better bring Ama when you come!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I promise I will bring Amaranta to New Sailia next visit.
AMBRIKA (PSI V.O.)
Good.
Cherna wrapped her arm around his waist.
He kissed the side of her head.
TAREK
I just want you to know, I’ve healed Sannaro’s injuries and Cherna’s cascade failure has been stopped so if you want those bodies back, contact me.
NIKKLO
Right now, taking back my Saili body is the least of my concerns.
CHERNA
I don’t know if I want to go back right now. I’m enjoying having legs again and I’m learning so much more about being a telepath. I don’t think I want to go back to being barely telepathic.
TAREK
Then I’ll keep them both in stasis for now.
NIKKLO
Let’s shake up those engines, Yuri. I can’t phase this ship everywhere.
YURI
Powering up. Some of my kind are asking to return to Gasbaja. Shall that be our first destination?
NIKKLO
Good as any. Pull us away from New Sailia and plot a course for Gasbaja.
YURI
Houk, Tsikakayu. Setting a course for Gasbaja.
CHERNA
Now I recall you haven’t slept in a while. I think you need some down time.
NIKKLO
Oh, that, I’ve begun to forget what down-time felt like.
CHERNA
To bed with you and you’ll do it alone, understand?
NIKKLO
Okay, I need the rest that’s not unnaturally surged by swimming in lava.
CHERNA
Or forced with sedatives.
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you.
She took his hand and led him from the bridge.
MARC
I’ll keep an eye on things.
Andoku stepped onto the bridge.
ANDOKU
I’ll take Ama to Marc’s apartment to help her settle in.
MARC
Good idea.
Amaranta said as she resettled her bag on her shoulder.
AMARANTA
This is so exciting.
ANDOKU
It is a new ship with a fascinating history.
The two teens left the bridge together.
TAREK
I’m going back to Sailia, kids.
NIKKLO
Later, Tarek.
Tarek disappeared.
Nikklo and Cherna walked slowly through the newly renovated silver hallways to their apartment and entered their bedroom.
INT. NIKKLO'S APARTMENT, EURYANASSA - CONTINUOUS
Cherna kissed him.
CHERNA
You need to remember how to slow down. I’ll be near and you just sleep as long as you need to.
NIKKLO
But I need to shape ceramics with Andu and check up with Danu that he’s setting up the medical bay to his satisfaction. I have to look at the shuttle pod changing crane.
CHERNA
Later!
She pushed him onto the bed.
Nikklo laid back and sighed.
NIKKLO
Wow, this feels so good
He tried to resist closing his eyes, but soon he was asleep with a feeling of peace he’d long since forgotten as a lost Tauian boy with only a pendant around his neck to hint to him he was different than the other humanoids.
INT. NIKKLO'S HOUSE, GASBAJA – DAY
NIKKLO and CHERNA walked grimly through their blood encrusted house.
Cherna bit her fist in attempt to push back tears.
CHERNA
I'm so sorry, Nikky!
Nikklo hugged Cherna tenderly.
NIKKLO
I know you are. You were controlled by a Coercer. We're working things out now. A lot of this furniture can be cleaned up with a careful cerlactacine wash.
CHERNA
I don't know if I want them back! Looking at this furniture could bring me memories of that horrible day!
NIKKLO
I understand.
NIKKLO pulled away from her and went to the old redwood cabinet with the carved phoenixes and caressed it lovingly.
NIKKLO
I'll miss this cabinet. It was the first thing we bought together at our Us'uata os Huen as a couple.
CHERNA
(sigh)
Maybe we could take that, at least.
NIKKLO
I won't insist we take it if it will bring you pain to see it.
CHERNA
Nui, you're right, it was the first piece of furniture we bought as a couple. I think I would miss the memories of that strange Us'uata. I want to keep the cabinet. Everything else can be destroyed.
NIKKLO
We'll keep the cabinet and a few personal items I didn't take to Euryanassa because we launched so quickly.
MONTAGE OF NIKKLO AND CHERNA PACKING
The ground beyond the door was stacked with boxes and the cabinet.
NIKKLO
I'll change form and phase these boxes and the cabinet to Euryanassa.
CHERNA
(tearing up)
Don't leave me here with my memories!
Nikklo hugged Cherna.
NIKKLO
I won't. Just watch me get rid of these bad memories.
Nikklo walked to each remaining furniture. When he touched them, they puffed into a cloud of dust that drifted to the floor.
Cherna followed him through the house until it was empty.
Nikklo took Cherna's hand and walked out of the house. Nikklo looked Cherna in the eye and touched a wall. The house turned into a huge puff of dust.
The dust settled around them.
NIKKLO
These memories are now all dust to be absorbed into the Gasbajan soil.
CHERNA
What did you do?
NIKKLO
I caused the molecules of each piece to disintegrate. The molecules formed the residual dust. No more furniture to remind you of your terrible memories. We'll get new furniture to replace what I destroyed. Now I can phase you to Euryanassa then phase back to get the boxes as the cabinet.
CHERNA
I wasn't sure I liked the changes that came with remembering you were Nikklo.
NIKKLO
Now?
CHERNA
Now I think Nikklo makes Sannaro complete and more secure. I like how you've merged the two identities into one.
NIKKLO
That warms my core to hear you think that way.
Cherna grinned mischievously.
CHERNA
I didn't think your core could be any warmer?
Nikklo laughed heartily.
NIKKLO
You smart ass!
CHERNA
Couldn't resist. I am married to one of the premier smart asses?
Nikklo kissed Cherna.
NIKKLO
That's me. Changing forms to phase.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
INT. NIKKLO'S QUARTERS, EURYANASSA
Nikklo and Cherna appeared in their quarters. He pulled away from their embrace.
Cherna sat down on a Gasbajan chair.
PHASING VISUAL
EXT. EMPTY KUMANI CAMP, GASBAJA – DAY – CONTINUOUS
Nikklo touched the stack of boxes and the cabinet.
PHASING VISUAL
INT. NIKKLO'S QUARTERS, EURYANASSA – CONTINUOUS
Nikklo set the boxes and the cabinet in the open area of their living room.
SAILI NIKKLO
Cherna stood up to join Nikklo.
NIKKLO
Everything is here and our mess is gone from Gasbaja.
Cherna opened a box and began to remove items to be placed.
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Owe, owe, owe!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
What's wrong, Lini?
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Diaper change! Butt hurts!
NIKKLO
Cheri, Lin told me she needs a diaper change. I'll help you unpack soon.
CHERNA
I wish I could hear her.
NIKKLO
We'll work on that.
Nikklo walked into the nursery. He settled Linea onto the changing table and grabbed the wipes and a new diaper.
YURI (PSI V.O.)
Are you done on Gasbaja?
NIKKLO
Houk, why?
YURI (PSI V.O.)
I wanted to share with you some ideas of how my crystallines could renovate the ship to make you and your crew more comfortable.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Give me a few minutes. I'm changing Linea. Oh, and I have some unpacking to do with Cheri.
YURI
Okay, it's not urgent. You can get with me when you have time.
VARANANI walked into the nursery.
VARANANI
I can help Cheri unpack if you have a lot to do.
Nikklo closed the diaper around Linea's waist, picked her up and settled her on his shoulder.
NIKKLO
Fa'arata, Vara. I'm sure Yuri can wait but I wouldn't have a problem with you helping us unpack. Cheri was very unsettled about seeing the blood-encrusted house.
VARANANI
I'm sure she was. I can take Lini and talk to Cheri while both of you unpack?
NIKKLO
Sounds like a good plan.
Nikklo placed Linea into Varanani's arms. They returned to the living room. Nikklo joined Cherna to unpack.
SUPER: KELLIN
Tarek, did you forget about me?
SUPER: TAREK
No, I can't forget about you. Beken just made himself the more obvious target.
SUPER: KELLIN
You and your son will pay for sending Beken into that black hole. I promise you that!
SUPER: TAREK
Bring it on, Mother. This grudge has to end. Too many innocents are dying.
SUPER: KELLIN
No one is innocent, Tarek. Especially you and I can prove it.
SUPER: TAREK
We'll see.
SUPER: KELLIN
Indeed we will.
FADE OUT.
THE END