Lyssa Thorne's
Science Fiction Novels
Double Dragon Ebooks
WARNING:
CONTENT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR GENERAL AUDIENCES DUE TO EXPLICIT SEXUAL CONTENT.
“DESTROYER RECOMMISSIONED”
EPISODE 68 – DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY
BY: LYSSA THORNE
FADE IN:
INT. KUMANI HOSPITAL ROOM
As Sannaro laid back on his pillow to rest after telepathically sending the message to Hadah about Marc’s situation, the door swept open. Sannaro smiled in surprise when he saw his visitor was his aged foster father Zhad.
SANNARO
Yaro, it’s nice to see you again.
ZHAD
Too long. But you’re visiting my hospital again.
SANNARO
I thought you retired and gave Senior Doctor to Danu?
ZHAD
I did, but so much of my life was lived here. Anyway, enough about this old man, I came to see how you’re doing. Danu told me you were a horrible mess when he pulled you from the shuttle.
SANNARO
I didn’t escape on my own this time, Ya. Someday, they’re going to kill me.
ZHAD
Someday, but, again, not today. You’ve made such an indelible impact on history. Since I returned from the medical school at Alveria and found a severely burned little Saili boy suffering in Adara’s apartment, I never regretted healing you. I’m so very proud to have been given the privilege of being your foster father.
SANNARO
But I sometimes drove you and Chali crazy with my telepathic mischief.
ZHAD
Houk, you did, but look at the man you became! A veteran of multiple wars, the undisputed General of the Saili Defense Force for both New Sailia and Sailia.
SANNARO
The most hunted warrior in history.
ZHAD
But what a legacy you’ll leave behind once someone finally injures you beyond our skills to heal you. I know you have a tendency to come down hard on yourself when someone gets around your defenses and I don’t want you to despair, son. That woman in the next bed really needs you.
Sannaro glanced at Cherna who was still deep in sleep. She’d already been released, but she was reluctant to leave his side.
SANNARO
How are the kids?
ZHAD
Andu is constantly with your mother learning pottery shaping. I never thought I’d see someone who loves to shape pottery more than Adara, but Andu does. And do you know that Ambri is spending all her spare time talking with Jeremy?
SANNARO
Houk, they want to tasra.
ZHAD
Another physician in the family?
SANNARO
Looks like that’s where it’s going.
ZHAD
Very talented physician withstanding, he’s a nice young man.
SANNARO
I agree and I hope the council will grant their request.
The door opened again and Hadah entered.
HADAH
San, I sent the message to ADF Command, but Captain Selik is demanding that I hand you and Cherna over to be arrested for Tristin Sarto’s death so you can be taken to Arcturus for trial.
SANNARO
But Selik is the Pirate informant!
HADAH
I realize that. But what do I do, Sannaro? Refuse to turn you over and risk getting into armed conflict with the Yorktown?
ZHAD
What? Fight the Yorktown?
SANNARO
Then I’ll tell the Yorktown that I will only surrender myself to Arcturus because Hadeon admitted to me he has a plant on the Yorktown and I’m concerned for my welfare in light that twice Cheri and I have been transported by Yorktown personnel and twice the shuttle was attacked. If I have to, I’ll pull rank and remind them I’m the General of the Saili Defense Force and I want immunity.
HADAH
That’s really getting into politics, San.
SANNARO
I know it is, but I have good reason to fear that Selik will hand me over to the pirates for execution.
CHERNA
Captain Selik is working with the pirates?
SANNARO
That’s what Marc Daniels told me. He asked Hadah to send a message to the ADF Command to send another ship out to help Marc take Selik into custody but Selik wants us to be transported immediately.
CHERNA
Then, I’m not trusting that unkafata.
HADAH
Then I guess we’ll have to face the possibility that we’ll have to fight the Yorktown.
SANNARO
Did the ADF say how long they would need to deploy another Dreadnought?
HADAH
Days.
SANNARO
We could do a rush toward Arcturus. The Kumani is a swift ship. She might be able to stay ahead of the Yorktown.
HADAH
That’s a bit more risky than I like to do with our home, San.
SANNARO
Okay, then Cheri and I will take a shuttle and try to sneak around the Yorktown so we can try to outrun a Dreadnought to Arcturus.
HADAH
Come on, I know you can send false images to people’s minds, but I don’t think even you can disguise a heat signature from electronic sensors!
SANNARO
Then I’ll just have to call New Sailia and have my Uncle come to us to enforce political immunity.
ZHAD
I think that might be the best choice. Tell Captain Selik that Sannaro is claiming diplomatic immunity and if he fires on the Kumani, San can bring the Saili and New Saili to his defense. See if that gives him pause.
HADAH
I think you’re right, Zhad. We’ll use that strategy. But before I make that call, I think you need to call your Uncle and Grand Akuba Hiamovi, San.
Sannaro groaned as he swung his legs over the edge of the bed.
SANNARO
Okay, I’ll do that.
He stood up and swayed on his feet.
Zhad grabbed Sannaro’s arm to steady him.
SANNARO
Wow, I’m still quite sore.
Hadah took Sannaro’s other arm.
The two men walked Sannaro over to the computer table in the room and sat him in the chair.
HADAH
And you were going to try to fly a shuttle in this condition?
SANNARO
If I had to.
Sannaro opened a line to the Central Communications station.
DI'OK
CenCom.
SANNARO
Di, would you call my Uncle? Urgent priority, ka'iho.
DI'OK
That ni'yaroi wants to take you again, doesn’t he?
SANNARO
And if this call doesn’t get through, we may be fired on. I’ll fill you in later, ka'iho.
DI'OK
Okay, I’m sending the call. One minute.
The screen changed to the symbol of the phoenix for a minute before the screen showed the image of Sannaro’s Uncle Devasru.
SANNARO
Uncle, would you fly the Euryanassa to Arcturus as quickly as you can? I want to declare a diplomatic immunity and soon or I will be executed by pirates.
DEVASRU
I’m on my way! Have you called Tsiakuba Hiamovi?
SANNARO
Not yet. I’m going to call him next.
DEVASRU
Yes, call him. I’m going to the Spaceport now.
SANNARO
Thank you, Uncle.
He closed that line then called CenCom again.
SANNARO
Di, connect me to Grand Akuba Hiamovi.
Di'ok nodded and the screen returned to the phoenix.
Shortly the screen changed to the Tsiakuba of all the Saili.
HIAMOVI
Sannaro, I’ve been informed you have urgent news?
SANNARO
Yes, Tsiakuba, I need to ask for Diplomatic Immunity or I will be handed over to pirates for execution.
HIAMOVI
That cannot be allowed to happen. Who do I speak with to declare the Diplomatic Immunity?
SANNARO
You need to speak with Captain Selik on the ADF Yorktown.
HIAMOVI
Have you informed Akuba Devasru?
SANNARO
I have and he’s bringing the Euryanassa at top speed to intervene on my behalf.
HIAMOVI
Good. I will place that call now.
Sannaro waited until the screen split into two with Tsiakuba Hiamovi on the left and Captain Selik on the right.
HIAMOVI
Captain Selik of the ADF Yorktown, I call on behalf of Aurum Sannaro Damirateyak, General of the Saili Defense Force.
SELIK
Grand Akuba Hiamovi.
HIAMOVI
I declare Diplomatic Immunity for General Damirateyak until General Damirateyak decides it is no longer needed. The Defense Force of New Sailia is being deployed to ensure General Damirateyak’s safety. Failure to honor this condition will warrant immediate retaliation upon your ship.
Selik’s lips became a thin white line.
SELIK
I don’t know why you would declare this drastic action, Aurum Grand Akuba, but I will respect your wishes.
SANNARO
Thank you, Captain Selik.
The computer screen returned to the symbol of the phoenix.
Sannaro reached out to Marc Daniels’ mind on the Yorktown.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Marc?
MARC (PSI V.O.)
What’s up, San?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I’m sorry that things are going to get rough over there. Try to lay low. I called Sailia to ask for Diplomatic Immunity.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Wow, but I can completely understand.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
The ADF won’t get here for several days, but my Uncle Devasru will arrive in a few hours to enforce the immunity. I refuse to trust Captain Selik with my welfare.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
I don’t trust him either. I think you’ve made the best move you had, my friend. Now Captain Selik can’t attack the Kumani without causing an interplanetary incident and the Saili have become quite powerful since their invasion, thanks to you.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Just don’t give any clue that you’re the one who tipped me off to Selik.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Believe me, I won’t. Good luck, my friend.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Good luck to you, too.
HADAH
Are you done with your messages, San?
SANNARO
I am. I warned Marc telepathically that he better lay low, cause people are going to get angry over at the Yorktown.
HADAH
Good. Now let’s get you back to bed before you collapse on us and I get hell from Danu for exhausting you.
ZHAD
I’ll vouch for the urgency.
Zhad and Hadah guided Sannaro back to bed and tucked him under the blankets.
ZHAD
Now, I think you need to get some sleep.
SANNARO
Still talking like a physician.
ZHAD
I didn’t stop being a physician. I just retired and let the youngsters take over, but I’m still your Father.
SANNARO
Houk, Ya.
Sannaro smiled as he closed his eyes and quickly drifted to sleep.
(LATER)
The next time Sannaro woke again, he opened his eyes to see Uncle Devasru bent over him.
DEVASRU
You look spectacularly green.
SANNARO
I looked worse when I had slashes on my chest, hips and a nick on my left ear.
DEVASRU
I’m surprised even you survived all that.
SANNARO
As always, sheer stubbornness.
DEVASRU
Now, would you fill me in completely?
PSYCHIC MONTAGE OF STRUGGLES WITH HADEON
BACK TO HOSPITAL
DEVASRU
This is incredible. The audacity of this pirate is astounding. He must be stopped for all our sakes and Hiamovi told me to bring almost all the New Saili space corps so our armada is surrounding the Kumani as we speak. He felt a show of numbers was warranted.
SANNARO
All for me?
DEVASRU
Yes, all for you, Tsikakayu Damirateyak. Both Sailia and New Sailia don’t want to lose their racial icon to pirates.
SANNARO
I’m not an icon.
DEVASRU
To our people you are an icon. They refuse to lose you, Sannaro.
SANNARO
Even though it embarrasses me, that’s actually what I wanted. I need protection until I can safely arrive at Arcturus so Cheri and I can give witness to Hadeon’s crimes.
DEVASRU
I had always thought you would be the last person to ever ask for Diplomatic Immunity.
CHERNA
Hadeon is a vicious greedy Brocana who brought Centauri tactics of survival to piracy. He has to be stopped or we’ll all suffer.
Sannaro put his arm around Cherna and hugged her.
Cherna laid her head on his shoulder.
MONTAGE OF HADEON FORCING VIOLENCE ON cHERNA
Sannaro pinched his nose to drive back the tears that threatened to flow from sharing her pain.
Devasru cringed as he also received the images.
DEVASRU
I’m sorry that pirate was so vicious to you, Cherna.
SANNARO
And I used my telekinesis again to kill a whole ship of pirates. I’m beginning to scare myself.
DEVASRU
That’s why we Saili have tried to stay pacifists, Sannaro. We’re a hearty people who come from a harsh environment. When pushed, we have some very dangerous abilities. As the first fully trained warrior, we feared the abilities you could manifest. But now we understand that instead of suppressing those abilities, we should learn how to discipline ourselves to use those abilities with restraint.
SANNARO
Yet, here I am, cowering behind Political Immunity.
DEVASRU
And you can barely walk from the massive bruising you’re still healing from. I think you’re entitled to some protection while you’re healing. But I have to ask you, what do you intend to do next? Will you go to the trial at Arcturus?
SANNARO
I do want to go to the trial. Cheri and I have to clear our names. I’d rather the Kumani take us to Arcturus. Then we’ll go down to attend the trial with Saili and Astrisi protection.
DEVASRU
Okay, I’ll tell my pilots to follow the Kumani’s commands.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah, please inform the Saili escort that I want us to fly to Arcturus.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
So we’re taking you to the trial?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, I apologize for telling you what to do.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Nui, this time I need you to tell me what to do as long as you accept my suggestions when I disagree with your plan, which you have done. I’ll set a course for Arcturus.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Fa’arata, Hadah.
SANNARO
We’re on our way to Arcturus.
DEVASRU
I’ll be near if you need me.
Devasru walked from the room.
Cherna cuddled deeper into Sannaro’s arms.
He laid back with his arms still around her and enjoyed her nearness as he drifted back to sleep.
INT. ADF YORKTOWN
Marc tried to contain his anxiety as he walked toward Captain Selik’s office. He wished he could ignore the summons, but he decided if he did, he’d look suspicious and Selik might suspect that he knew the Captain had informed Hadeon when he had been transporting Sannaro and Cherna. He stopped outside the door to take a deep breath before he tripped the sensor, crisply entered and saluted.
SELIK
You know General Damirateyak better than I do. Why would he declare Diplomatic Immunity and flat out refuse to surrender himself to justice?
MARC
Well, twice we tried to transport him and his wife and both times the shuttle was attacked. If I were him, I’d begin to suspect that the ADF didn’t want him to survive transport.
SELIK
The whole goddamn Saili Space Defense Force is hovering around the goddamn Kumani! He says if I fire on the Kumani, the Saili will attack the Yorktown!
MARC
Complicated diplomatic situation.
SELIK
He has that much damned power with the Saili?
MARC
He’s their hero, Captain. He was instrumental in the freedom of the Saili Gonkacha from Sailia and then he led the Saili to expel Human invaders from Sailia. I can see why the Saili revere him.
COMSPEC
Captain Selik, the Kumani is setting a course for Arcturus.
SELIK
Are the Saili still guarding it?
COMSPEC
Yes, Sir.
SELIK
Damn. Okay, follow the Kumani at a respectful distance. Don’t make any aggressive moves. I’ll be back on the bridge soon.
COMSPEC
Aye, Captain.
SELIK
You have diplomatic credentials, Daniels.
MARC
Yes, sir.
SELIK
What are your recommendations from a diplomatic standpoint, Commander?
MARC
I would follow them and see what they do. I agree you should not do anything that can be translated in any way as aggressive. Sailia and New Sailia have made a very strong defense force after they were liberated from Human rule.
SELIK
In other words, let him do what he wants.
MARC
That’s Diplomatic Immunity. At least it looks like he’s going to the trial, just not the way you wanted him to.
SELIK
You’re sounding very close to insubordinate, Daniels.
MARC
With all due respect, Sir, you asked me for my diplomatic advice and I see that General Damirateyak is at least showing he wants to attend the trial, just not trust us to transport him. My diplomatic advice is to allow him to lead for now so we don’t get fired on by the Saili.
SELIK
All right. You’re dismissed.
Marc turned on his heels and strode out the door. He walked down the hall and turned the corner. He looked both ways to make sure he was alone before he leaned against the wall and took in a deep shuddering breath. Once he felt his tension lower, he stood again and walked back to his quarters.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
INT. KUMANI HOSPITAL ROOM
Sannaro scowled as he watched Cherna lay down the clothes he was going to wear to Arcturus for the trial. He hated to have to be dressed by his wife since he tended to be rather independent. His body was still stiff from the bruises and his skin was still more green than yellow.
CHERNA
I know you’re feeling like fausa so I brought your favorites, your black pants, vermillion sweatshirt and your firm black landing boots. Do you want your bangs tied back?
SANNARO
Kasai, tasra.
CHERNA
For what?
SANNARO
I’ve been so moody.
CHERNA
And you’ve had pirates and a crooked ADF Captain hunting you so why should you apologize?
SANNARO
Because I’ve been grouchy.
CHERNA
And a spectacular shade of green from deep tissue bruising. Sanna, I understand how much pain you’re in. I’m allowing you to feel grouchy. Now will you allow me to help you dress?
SANNARO
Do you have to call me my childhood name?
Cherna dropped her arms from holding up his pants.
CHERNA
You are touchy. You know I only call you your childhood name out of affection. I’m not teasing you.
SANNARO
But it sounds so girlish or like that Human gift giver Santa Claus. I get embarrassed.
CHERNA
For one thing, I see a very muscular handsome man who has a very kind nature, but if you get him mad, everyone says he’s a juggernaut you don’t want to be after you. Secondly, I researched the word Santa and it means ‘saint’ who is a person officially recognized as being entitled to public veneration. I know the Saili wouldn’t call you General and they sure wouldn’t be flying escort around the Kumani if you weren’t admired. And just because the Humans have a holiday icon with a similar name has nothing to do with the Saili so let the Humans have their holiday. You don’t live in their culture. Now, aren’t you getting cold?
SANNARO
Houk, I am.
CHERNA
So get dressed!
She held up the pants.
He carefully slipped his legs into the pants and pulled them over his hips.
Cherna pulled his sweatshirt over his head and helped him guide his arms into the sleeves.
CHERNA
Now, do you want your bangs bound?
Sannaro nodded.
Cherna brought out the black band and a comb from a pocket.
Sannaro shifted sideways on the bed to allow her to reach the back of his head.
She began to comb all the hair before she combed the bangs into her hand and slipped the band around them.
SANNARO
When you do my hair, I feel like a child.
CHERNA
You’re aching. Allow some indulgence, sweetheart.
Hadah entered the opening door.
HADAH
I’m going to fly you to Arcturus and stick to your side. I’ve already been informed that Devasru will meet us at the spaceport.
Cherna squatted down and pulled on his socks and his boots.
Hadah handed him the red Senior Team-leader’s sash.
HADAH
I want you to wear this so everyone knows you’re my Senior Pilot.
Varanani entered the parting doors.
VARANANI
I’m coming, too.
Danu was right behind her.
DANU
And she’s not leaving me behind. I want to guard your medical condition.
SANNARO
Any more family who are going to find a reason to guard me?
AMBRIKA (PSI V.O.)
If we could get away with it, almost all of us would go, Ya. I’d like to give them a few choice words about what they did to both of you.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Fa’arata, Ambri, but I do think this trial may be too mature for you to be involved in.
AMBRIKA (PSI V.O.)
I’m going to be tasra soon!
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I know, Little Rose, just indulge your Yaro this time.
AMBRIKA (PSI V.O.)
Huh, you haven’t called me Little Rose in a long time.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
It’s just a translation of your name from Saili.
AMBRIKA (PSI V.O.)
Right, Lively.
Sannaro snorted derisively.
AMBRIKA (PSI V.O.)
Got you, Ya.
ANDOKU (PSI V.O.)
I don’t even want to think of going with you. But I’ll be hoping everything will work out. I hate what they did to you, too.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Fa’arata, Andu.
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
You hate it? My sister was raped by a ni'yaroi pirate! I want to rend his meat from his bones!
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
I’m all right, Di. Like I told San when he was raped by Tristin Sarto, Hadeon could take my body, but my soul belongs to Sannaro and always will.
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
I know. It still makes me so angry, but you don’t need a translator since you know Basic as well as I do.
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
I appreciate your thoughts, though, ka'iho.
HADAH
Let’s get to the shuttle.
Sannaro stood from the bed, then swayed and stumbled as he pressed his hand to his ear.
Hadah rushed forward and grabbed his arm.
HADAH
Easy there, San.
SANNARO
Fausa, I’ll be all right in a few seconds.
HADAH
Is that the ear Hadeon nicked?
SANNARO
Houk, but Jeremy said it didn’t reach the nerve.
DANU
Ears are complicated organs, especially Saili ears. Though I’m sure you’ll regain your balance in a few days.
He placed himself at Sannaro’s other arm.
Sannaro walked with his head down and concentrated on moving.
Cherna and Varanani followed them out the door and down to the elevator.
The elevator opened and they stepped in and called for the Upper Flight Bay.
HADAH
If you didn’t have to do this for intergalactic peace, I’d tell them to go to their hell. You’re barely walking.
SANNARO
I wish I could just ignore this too, but I don’t want to leave here without Cheri’s and my name cleared.
They entered the shuttle and sat down on the couches.
Hadah sat in the pilot’s seat and prepared the ship for flight.
After they were raised into the retrieval deck, Hadah flew the shuttle into space.
A half hour later, they landed at the Arcturus spaceport.
A ramp unfolded from the terminal and locked onto the side of their shuttle.
Sannaro reluctantly stood and looked with dread at the airlock.
DANU
We’ll get through this.
VARANANI (PSI V.O.)
Take my strength, brother.
Cherna wrapped her arm around his and laid her head on his shoulder.
CHERNA
Wing-mates in all things.
Sannaro pressed his cheek on the crown of Cherna’s head.
SANNARO
Always.
Hadah joined them and they entered the spaceport in a tight group.
As soon as they came into the terminal, police blocked their way and beyond the blockade was a large group of reporters.
Devasru stepped behind the blockade.
DEVASRU
Aurum General Damirateyak is only to be escorted. If he is shackled in any way, I will have a message sent to Sailia and a protest will be submitted to the Alliance Council of Representatives.
Captain Selik rushed up to Devasru with Marc close behind.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
This is shit. Why won’t that second ADF battleship arrive already?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
It’s not here?
MARC (PSI V.O.)
No.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
But Hadah sent that message days ago.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
They sent a message that they had a situation that would detain them.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Right, I’ll bet it was pirates.
Selik stopped a distance away from Devasru near the farthest police officer.
SELIK
What are you waiting for? Arrest Cherna and Sannaro Damirateyak!
The policeman glanced nervously at Sannaro and Devasru before he turned to Captain Selik.
POLICEMAN
Sir, Ambassador Devasru informed us that if we do any more than give General Damirateyak an escort, Grand Akuba Hiamovi would send a formal protest to the Alliance Council.
SANNARO
I still claim Diplomatic Immunity. You will escort me, my wife Cherna and Commander Hadah to the trial and no more.
SELIK
Your wife and you are still accused of killing Tristin Sarto.
SANNARO
Yes, we are. We are here to attend the trial. We intend go willingly. Is your intent to block me from attending the trial so my wife and I can speak in our defense?
The policeman who spoke to Selik cracked a forced smile.
POLICEMAN
Of course not, General Damirateyak, we are merely here as an escort.
He waved for his men to separate into two lines with a path through them.
The men adjusted position accordingly.
Sannaro led Cherna and Hadah beyond the police and stopped with his hand raised to Devasru.
SANNARO
It’s good to see you again, Uncle.
DEVASRU
I wish it was better circumstances.
SANNARO
So do I.
DEVASRU
The vehicle is waiting for us to take us to the court house.
SANNARO
Lead on, please.
Sannaro followed his Uncle while the police followed him.
He was relieved when he entered the hover car and the driver flew away, even though the police followed in their own cars, but all too soon, the car stopped before the courthouse and they climbed the stairs.
Cherna wrapped her arm around Sannaro’s arm.
He laid his head on her shoulder for a second before the doors swept open and they stepped in.
Sannaro scowled at the security sensor he was confronted with.
SECURITY
Since this device isn’t made for Saili, we would like the Saili to go with the other officer who will do a physical security check.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Great, they seem to act like they don’t service Saili.
DEVASRU
Most Saili do live on New Sailia or Sailia now so I’m not surprised.
They followed the other security guard to a table across the room. That officer picked up a hand held wand.
Security
Aurum General Damirateyak, please step forward.
Sannaro reluctantly stepped forward and allowed the man to wave the wand before him.
SECURITY
Please step into the black cordoned off area.
Sannaro stepped beyond the black ropes.
SECURITY
Aurum Ambassador Masanateyak, you’re next.
DEVASRU (PSI V.O.)
At least they learned how to address us correctly.
Cherna walked over to stand beside Devasru.
SANNARO
Cheri, why are you over here?
CHERNA
Because I have metal in my body from my amputation so I have to be cleared by the hand scanner.
Devasru joined Sannaro beyond the rope.
SECURITY
Uh, Mrs. Damirateyak?
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
It’s so funny to see them stumble on what to call me.
Soon Cherna joined them beyond the rope.
Across the room, Sannaro saw that Marc Daniels looked very uncomfortable as he stood with the other ADF as they passed through the sensor.
Danu also looked uncomfortable as he stood beside Hadah.
Soon, they were together again and they were lead to the courtroom where the trial would be held.
They settled in and waited for the announcement that the judge was ready to enter.
BAILIFF
All rise for the honorable Judge Tetsch.
Sannaro joined everyone in standing for the judge even though his muscles were aching.
A short, stocky man entered with his mostly balding head uncovered. He swirled his black robes and sat behind his desk.
JUDGE TETCH
This is a hearing on the death of Tristin Sarto. The accused is Cherna of the Kumani, and her husband Aurum General Sannaro Damirateyak of New Sailia.
As an attorney began to stand, the building rocked from a massive explosion.
Sannaro leapt up to his feet.
The guards blocked the doors and two guards stopped beside him and Cherna.
JUDGE TETCH
What’s happening?
BAILIFF
We’re getting a report, your honor.
A bailiff brought a communication device to his ear and began to talk quietly.
Sannaro reached out his telepathy and did a quick scan of the man.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
The courthouse is under attack from pirates.
Marc glanced nervously toward Sannaro.
The rear doors opened and several ADF soldiers entered and spoke to the guards.
Selik stood up and moved to the soldiers at the door. He spoke to them for a second then took something that was handed to him.
SANNARO
What is he doing?
GUARD
Probably getting a report from his men.
Selik arranged his uniform before he turned with a smug look on his face. He gestured his men toward Sannaro.
The guard moved to grab Sannaro’s arm but yelped, pulled back and shook his hands.
ADF SOLDIER
What the hell?
SANNARO
You touch me, I burn you. Back off.
SELIK
I’ve had enough of your vanity, Sannaro!
Marc rushed across the room and put himself between Sannaro and his fellow shipmen.
MARC
Stop, our mission is to bring Sannaro to justice. Our job is finished. It’s the job of the courts to make judgment.
CORDOVA
Shut up, Daniels, your just a naive lackey from headquarters. You know nothing.
MARC
Naive lackey from headquarters?
SELIK
Shut up, Cordova.
The guards moved near Sannaro but were cautious of getting too near his protective bubble of energy.
Danu and Varanani crouched low to the floor.
The doors opened again and Hadeon swaggered into the courtroom.
HADEON
Thanks for the rescue, Selik. I was already getting bored in that stupid courtroom.
MARC
Damn it, where is the ADF?
SELIK
Not coming, little politician’s brat. I did some fancy talk and told HQ that the Kumani was talking out the ass. Who do you think they’d believe first, some trouble-making space gypsies or an upstanding ADF Captain?
MARC
Have you lost your mind? Don't you know you're violating your oath to the ADF?
SELIK
I am protecting the Alliance from a dangerous alien who pretends to be an upstanding Astrisi shipper. Everyone knows that you call this alien a friend so who is violating oath? Now, to shut up a loudmouthed pip-squeak Saili.
JUDGE TETCH
All of you cease and desist! This is a court of law! If you don’t, I’ll call contempt of court on you!
SELIK
Go ahead, I have only contempt for this court anyway. I declare this case to require a lynching! How many damned courts has this slag gotten around? What, four?
ADF SOLDIER
Saili vs. Kumani, Belvas - Exonerated the Kumani for kidnapping Sannaro resulting in survival of his injuries, custody awarded to Uncle Devasru Masanateyak but Sannaro ran away to Kumani. Regalis vs. Astrisi Star-ship Kumani, Case number 98567, declared a runaway. He fled from court, was found and given to Devasru Masanateyak, but Sannaro ran away again. Belvas Custody Hearing to award custody to the Kumani - denied so he ran away again. Saili Gonkacha Uprising - guilty but rescued by insurgents and taken to Sailia. Saili Civil War - exiled from Sailia, returned to Astrisi. Sannaro vs. Tristin Sarto, Arcturus - guilty verdict on Sarto, Sannaro declared victim. That’s six court hearings.
SELIK
Every damned one, he’s either escaped or convinced the jury to free him! Oh, wait, wasn’t there a dispute with the Urvasi that almost stripped him of rank? He got off on that one too, didn’t he, Commander Hadah?
HADAH
Launch yourself out an airlock.
SELIK
Yes, I heard the reports about Alpha Centauri Seven reporting that Sannaro had mysteriously visited, then left without a trace and when the Urvasi asked that he be found, no one figured how he’d suddenly been found on New Sailia.
HADEON
Slippery slag!
SELIK
Damn, that’s seven hearings. I think it’s time to end the court hearings and get rid of him.
MARC
I can’t allow this lynch.
SELIK
Fine, then die with him, brat.
SANNARO
Fa’arata, Marc.
MARC
Ni’chawei, my friend. As you said at the end of the Zuran War, Ha'ao moku hata'ala, tu'isu, ta chatisora, we will face our adversaries with strength, courage and unity. I’d rather stand by you with honor than to shame myself by helping these traitors.
SELIK
Oh, how touching Sounds like you should have stayed with the gypsies after the war, Commander. What will your Council Speaker Daddy say when he learns you turned on your own shipmates? Shame, shame.
MARC
He would tell me not to dishonor myself for blind loyalty.
HADEON
Everyone, just shut up!
Hadeon took a device from another pirate and turned it on.
A high-pitched shriek ripped through the air.
Sannaro grabbed his ears and dropped to the floor. Through blurred eyes, he saw everyone, but the pirates were on the floor also holding their ears. He shuddered as Hadeon picked his way through the bodies to stand above him. He grinned down at him before he turned and wrapped one hand around his wrist.
A pirate ducked out the door and returned with a box. He opened the box and drew out sets of power shackles. The pirates fanned out and shackled everyone except for their ADF allies.
Hadeon personally shackled Sannaro with another ankle, wrist and ear set before he turned off the noise. He pulled out earplugs.
SELIK
Couldn’t you give us earplugs?
HADEON
Would’ve been too difficult to prepare. You’re not shackled so call yourself lucky.
He turned to Sannaro and kicked him in the ribs.
Sannaro grunted from the pain and curled into a ball.
Selik grabbed Sannaro off the floor and slammed him against the wall.
SELIK
God, he’s heavy!
Sannaro head-butted Selik.
Selik stumbled back and held his head.
SELIK
Shit, solid head too!
Sannaro lunged at Hadeon.
Hadeon fumbled with the controls.
Sannaro felt his limbs freeze, but laughed as he crashed into Hadeon and drove him onto the floor. He allowed his head to fall forward and his head slammed into Hadeon’s ribs as he fell on top of the pirate.
SANNARO
If you don’t want my weight to crush you, you’d better turn off the paralysis.
HADEON
Get him off me!
The pirates rushed over and rolled Sannaro to the side.
Hadeon sat up and grabbed his ribs.
HADEON
Sh'kukte! I shouldn’t have sold you to Sarto. Should have known a stupid nymphomaniac wouldn’t be smart enough to kill you!
He turned and pummeled Sannaro with both fists.
Marc rolled off the floor and launched himself at Hadeon in a flurry of fists.
The controls flew out of Hadeon’s hands as he tried to block Marc’s attack.
Sannaro low crawled toward the controls.
Selik leapt over Sannaro and grabbed the controls.
Sannaro screamed in frustration as his muscles seized and his arms and legs became dead weight.
MARC
Sh’kukte!
Marc dropped like a lead weight onto Hadeon.
HADEON
Stop paralyzing them on top of me!They’re heavy as rocks! Especially that ukvatu slag!
Cherna’s swung a wooden prosthesis leg and kicked Hadeon’s head.
HADEON
Paralyze them all, Selik!
Sannaro looked toward Selik and found Hadah was struggling with the ADF Captain for the controls.
SELIK
There’s too many of them!
PIRATE
Arcturus police are storming the courthouse!
HADEON
Kill Sannaro, kill the uksake!
A pirate pulled a gun.
The guards and Marc crowded around Sannaro to make it harder to target him.
PIRATE
I can’t get a clear shot!
HADEON
Just shoot! You’ve got to get him!
The pirate fired three times before the Arcturus police rushed in and shot him.
Sannaro screamed as fire spread across his shoulder.
Marc yelped and grabbed his thigh.
One guard woofed and pressed his hand into his blackened side.
The Arcturus police rushed in and shot the gunman.
Danu jumped from the floor and began to treat the guard’s side.
DANU
You’ll be all right soon.
Next, Danu turned to Marc to treat his leg.
DANU
I’ll work on you as soon as I can get Cerlacticine.
SANNARO
I understand.
POLICEMAN
I can’t believe the ADF would work with pirates! Is the burned shoulder your only wound, General?
SANNARO
I was kicked and beaten with fists.
POLICEMAN
I’ll call the Saili EMT to bring that stuff your Doctor needs to heal you.
SANNARO
I need Cerlacticine.
POLICEMAN
I need a Saili EMT with cer, cer-
Sannaro grabbed the communicator with his uninjured hand.
SANNARO
Bring Cerlacticine and a burn kit.
SAILI EMT
We’re on the way, Tsikakayu.
POLICEMAN
Damn, how did they know who you were?
SANNARO
Telepathy.
Sannaro sat up and clutched his burned arm to his side.
SANNARO
Great, now I get to endure more skin grafting.
He heard rustling fabric and saw Judge Tetsch stood up from behind his desk and looked around with panicked eyes.
POLICEMAN
It’s all right, your honor, everyone involved in the standoff has been taken into custody.
JUDGE TETCH
Did I hear the pirate Hadeon say he shouldn’t have sold you to Sarto because he should have known a nymphomaniac wouldn’t be smart enough to kill you?
SANNARO
You did, your honor. My wife Cherna fought Sarto to stop her from raping me again. I helped Cherna to kill Sarto because I didn’t want to be molested again either. We killed her and her bodyguards then flew her shuttle back to the Kumani to return home.
JUDGE TETCH
Did she force penetration?
SANNARO
No, but she did manipulate my genitals to orgasm with hands and mouth against my will while I wore restraints on my ankles, wrists and ears. Cherna wanted to make Tristin Sarto stop raping me so Cherna killed Tristin Sarto.
JUDGE TETCH
All charges are dropped based on new admission. This court is adjourned. I’m getting out of here.
Tetsch rushed toward his personal chamber.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
SANNARO
Marcayo, are you all right?
MARC
I’ll be fine, but I’m angry as hell that the ADF ignored my warnings.
SANNARO
They can’t ignore it now, my friend. The Arcturans are very disturbed that the ADF would engage in terrestrial terrorism, aiding known pirates and expressing contempt for Arcturan law.
POLICEMAN
The Governor of Arcturus is coming to talk to both of you, General Damirateyak, Lieutenant Daniels.
The EMT rushed in and joined Danu. One carefully brought out a bottle of Cerlacticine.
DANU
Please clean General Damirateyak’s burn.
The EMT nodded and moved beside Sannaro.
SAILI EMT
I’m going to have to cut away part of your shirt, Tsikakayu.
Sannaro nodded. He hissed as cutting the fabric pulled on the crusted skin of his arm.
The copper-skinned Vitrilum man pulled on a pair of gloves like the ones Kinetiko invented. He poured the clear liquid into a metal bowl, dipped a sponge into it and washed Sannaro’s burn. As the metallic blood softened, he carefully peeled away the burned fabric from the wound.
SAILI EMT
I’m finished, Doctor.
DANU
Let’s get this arm bandaged until we can get you into reconstructive treatment.
The EMT nodded and opened packages of bandages to cover the damaged flesh.
Cherna hugged Sannaro’s uninjured arm.
CHERNA
We’re free, tasra.
SANNARO
We’re free.
The door opened again. A Human in formal attire entered, stopped and looked around. He saw the cluster of Saili, he moved to them.
GOVERNOR DUNN
Ambassador Devasru, on behalf of Arcturus, I sincerely apologize for this horrible incident. General Damirateyak, are you injured badly?
SANNARO
I am, but I will recover.
DEVASRU
My General’s bid for Diplomatic Immunity was warranted, Mr. Dunn.
GOVERNOR DUNN
I see that now, Ambassador. To think the ADF was involved in this.
SANNARO
Commander Daniels tried to prevent this incident, but, unfortunately, his warnings were not taken seriously. Commander Daniels defended me from his fellow ADF and was wounded in my defense.
GOVERNOR DUNN
Commendable.
MARC
Thank you for your high praise, General Damirateyak.
SANNARO
At least you were doing the job you were sworn to do, unlike the ADF personnel who attacked me.
DEVASRU
And there will be a formal protest lodged against the ADF by the New Saili. Arcturus will be commended for coming to our aide and freeing us.
GOVERNOR DUNN
Can you say that in a formal announcement? My people are anxious that you’ll blame Arcturus for this.
DEVASRU
I’ll be glad to.
HADAH
I hope you don’t mind, but I need to get my people up to the Kumani for medical treatment?
GOVERNOR DUNN
I would also like for you to formally exonerate Arcturus to relieve anxiety, Commander Hadah.
HADAH
I’ll be willing to do that once my people are safe on our ship.
GOVERNOR DUNN
Fair enough.
Another Human stepped into the room and whispered to Mr. Dunn.
GOVERNOR DUNN
Alliance Council Speaker Daniels requests we talk with him in a video conference. Commander Daniels, he personally requested to speak with you, also.
HADAH
I’m concerned about the wounded.
DEVASRU
Dr. Danu, what is your professional advice?
DANU
I am concerned for the wounded as well. I have healed around the third degree burns with a hand held dermal regenerator, but nothing will heal the areas that are totally destroyed.
DEVASRU
Will their lives be in jeopardy if they speak with Speaker Daniels for a minute or two?
DANU
I am worried about infection, but I think they can manage a minute or two.
Dunn went to the court reporter’s desk, activated a large screen on the wall and Marc Daniels’ father appeared.
GOVERNOR DUNN
There is a wide pan camera in here that will send our image. Welcome, Speaker Daniels, I am Timothy Dunn, Governor of Arcturus.
JON
Thank you for speaking to me, Mr. Dunn. I was just given warning about the situation that happened on Arcturus. General Damirateyak, that’s quite a nasty burn on your shoulder.
SANNARO
Yes, Speaker Daniels, I’ll have to endure skin grafting again.
JON
I’m very sorry to hear that and how dreadfully you’ve been treated by Captain Selik on the Yorktown.
SANNARO
I want you to know that Commander Daniels defended me. He has a burned thigh for it and is still recovering from multiple wounds from his capture by the pirates.
JON
I wish the ADF would’ve listened to your report, Commander. An investigation will be made concerning the extent of this corruption of the Defense Force by pirates. I figured out that you wanted me to look closely at the papers on your desk in the photo. An investigation of the photos showed that user number was Captain Selik's personal designation and it clearly was sent each time right before you transported General Damirateyak and his wife Cherna. A copy of that information was given to the investigators.
Marc nodded.
JON
Commander Hadah, I apologize for the terrible multiple attacks your ship suffered throughout this incident. As usual, your defense force is unparalleled.
HADAH
That, I have to admit, is due to the excellent abilities of my Senior Fighter Pilot, General Sannaro Damirateyak.
JON
And I have had the honor to follow his illustrious career for years. And Ambassador Devasru, I have received the formal protest from both New Sailia and Sailia against the treatment of your Defense Force General. I will give formal apologies to Grand Akuba Hiamovi and I offer my apologies to you as well.
DEVASRU
I accept, Speaker Daniels.
JON
I’ll end this call for now since I see that both my son and Sannaro have very pained expressions on their faces and are in need of medical treatment. Can I ask a personal favor, Commander Hadah?
HADAH
Of course, Speaker Daniels.
JON
I’m concerned for the welfare of my son in light of this controversy. Would you please give him refuge on the Kumani and deliver him back to Earth?
HADAH
That is controversial, but I would be willing to transport Commander Daniels if you would assure the Kumani be unmolested during the voyage to Earth.
JON
General Damirateyak, I want you to continue your Diplomatic Immunity until you reach Earth. That should stop any attack.
SANNARO
I will announce that.
HADAH
Then, I will protect Commander Daniels.
JON
Thank you. Marc, I look forward to greeting you home.
MARC
I look forward to it too, Father.
JON
And the Council wants you to escort Hadeon to Earth personally.
HADAH
My ship doesn’t really have a place to secure a prisoner, Speaker Daniels.
JON
Do you have detention cells in your Protocol Enforcer’s office?
HADAH
Very small and not comfortable.
JON
Commander, my apologies, but do you really want to trust anyone else to transport this kind of clever criminal?
SANNARO
We can use these power shackles.
Sannaro held up his own restraints.
JON
You’re still shackled? I hope you have the device to free you from restraint.
SANNARO
We do.
JON
That’s a relief. We must transport this pirate as quickly as possible.
MARC
And I’ll guard him, myself. That Renegade’s not getting out of my sight.
JON
Renegade?
MARC
He’s a Brocana of Clan Tomihika.
JON
Oh no, this is worse than I thought. Marc, get that man to Earth as quickly as possible. Speaker Daniels, out.
The screen darkened.
Hadah stood beside Devasru as Danu rushed from one injured person to another.
HADAH
Let’s get the wounded transported to the shuttle. Cherna, are you injured?
CHERNA
Nui and my prostheses are intact too for once.
HADAH
Good.
GOVERNOR DUNN
I’ll prepare Hadeon so another of your shuttles can transport him to your ship.
DEVASRU
Commander Hadah, I would like to request that I remain with my General to make sure he remains free from attack.
HADAH
I understand. It seems this brazen move has many people unsettled. I welcome you back to the Kumani.
Hadah took Sannaro under the arms and helped him to stand.
Sannaro grunted in pain despite Hadah’s careful handling.
Hadah worked to unlock each set of shackles to remove them from Sannaro.
HADAH
San, since we’re now going to be transporting a very dangerous criminal to Earth, I would like for you to talk to the PE about helping Marc watch him.
SANNARO
But I’m the Senior Vizha'e, security isn’t my specialty.
HADAH
True, but you are my tactician, my general in a way.
SANNARO
I’m being called General more than my own name anymore.
HADAH
Well, you’re good at logistics. Maybe even better than me.
SANNARO
Don’t sell yourself short.
HADAH
I’m not, I’m just stating a fact. We’re a team, San. I need all my Seniors to help me run the Kumani. Retal is a great EO, but tactics isn’t his strong point. It is yours. I need my defense force to do its job to fight off outside invaders, but this will be the first time we’ve been hired to do criminal transport of a worlder and I think you may be able to give the PE ideas about how to help Marc.
SANNARO
The transport is going to be soon. I don’t think Danu will let me out of the burn unit that soon.
HADAH
I’ll talk to him for you.
Sannaro nodded.
Sannaro watched the EMT load Marc onto a gurney and roll him to the ambulance. He hugged his arm to his chest.
Cherna wrapped her hands around his good arm.
They saw Marc off in a human ambulance then entered a hover car to go back to the spaceport. Thankfully, the media seemed to be too stunned to ask them questions.
As soon as they arrived at the spaceport, they were met by a small hover cart that would
take them around the terminal to their shuttle so they wouldn’t have to go through the crowded hallways.
Soon, they were flying back to the Kumani with both Marc and Devasru with them. Fifteen
minutes later, they were landed.
INT. KUMANI HOSPITAL
Sannaro and Marc were taken to the hospital.
As they were being settled into the burn unit, Hadah stopped by Danu.
HADAH
Sorry to pull rank, Danu, but I need San to do a special job.
DANU
Do you see the deep tissue damage on his shoulder?
HADAH
I do, but I need San to brief the PE about how Hadeon needs to be contained. Could you seal his burn so he can leave the burn unit long enough for this job to be finished?
DANU
You told Jon Daniels we don't have the facilities to transport that pirate. The ADF have better containment. That’s a bit of a risk with that kind of burn, Hadah.
HADAH
I know, but San’s my best strategist and we’re doing a job we’ve never been called on to do. But with what the ADF pulled on Arcturus, do you think the Alliance Council wants to risk discovering more corruption within the ADF and loose Hadeon after everything he’s done to this region?
DANU
Even I was shocked to see that the Captain of the Yorktown took the courtroom captive.
HADAH
So was I. If that man gets free again, he'll hunt San until he's dead and the Kumani is destroyed.
DANU
You're right.
HADAH
I promise I’ll keep him away from treatment as briefly as I can.
DANU
Okay, I’ll try to protect him from infection and let him leave, but I don’t like it.
HADAH
I didn’t expect for you to like it. If I didn’t think it was necessary, I’d rather keep him in your care.
DANU
I’ll get him ready to leave.
Danu left the burn room for a few minutes then returned with a soft gauze shirt and bandages.
DANU
Sit down and I’ll protect you the best I can, San.
Sannaro sat down and allowed his friend to work on him.
SANNARO
Wow, I haven't worn these since I was seven.
DANU
I want to protect your arm until you're finished with Hadah's mission.
After a few minutes, Danu pulled the gauze shirt over Sannaro’s bandages and stepped back.
DANU
That’s the best I can do. Make this briefing quick. Go dress in the antechamber then put your arm in this sling.
Danu handed the sling to Sannaro.
Sannaro nodded then left the room.
Cherna met him in the antechamber with black pants and a teal blue sweatshirt.
He pulled on the new clothes then Cherna helped him put his arm in the sling. They moved into the hallway.
Cherna fell in beside him.
SANNARO
You were beaten too, shouldn’t you rest?
CHERNA
I’ll stay with you.
SANNARO
Lover, this was very hard on both of us and it will take a while to heal up here.
He pressed his hand against her head.
SANNARO
Despite the wounds, we still have to go on with our lives. No one has even checked to see how Andu and Ambri are handling this. Go on home. I’ll be okay.
CHERNA
But will I?
SANNARO
Maybe you should go talk to Wanakaya. I’ll be with you when I can, but I have work to do before Danu locks me down in the burn unit.
Cherna nodded.
Varanani stepped out of her office and walked up to Sannaro and Cherna.
VARANANI
I’ll take care of Cherna while you do your mission, San.
Sannaro kissed Cherna.
SANNARO
Go with Vara, tasra.
Cherna reluctantly stepped away from him and went into the office with his sister.
Sannaro walked to the elevator and took it to the level where the Protocol Enforcers’ office was and entered the room.
INT. KUMANI PROTOCOL ENFORCERS OFFICE
PIRLO
Well, there you are, San, but I don’t know why Hadah insisted we needed this briefing.
SANNARO
Ki’iwa, Pirlo. Have you been told we’re going to transport a very dangerous pirate?
PIRLO
Houk, the guy who’s been hounding us, but I don’t understand why the ADF can’t do it.
SANNARO
The Captain of the Yorktown has just shown himself to be corrupt. The ADF can’t be trusted and we don’t want to risk this pirate escaping to hurt us anymore.
PIRLO
It has been trying. Tempers have been high and we’ve had to break up more arguments lately.
SANNARO
Exactly, and that’s why we’ve been trusted to do this transport. If anyone wouldn’t want this pirate free again, it would be us Astrisi.
PIRLO
Okay, I’ll admit that.
SANNARO
Good.
PIRLO
But we don’t have the facilities to contain someone for weeks.
SANNARO
I have an idea. We could keep the restraining shackles on Hadeon and also a locator anklet. We can lock him into an apartment with a rotating guard to watch him. Because he’s so dangerous, you’ll need to have the guard armed with a pistol belt and pistol.
PIRLO
You know I don’t like my people armed.
SANNARO
If it was just us Astrisi, I would see no need to arm you, but this pirate is very violent. He’s a renegade Brocana who knows hand to hand combat. I want his guard armed. Marc will help when Danu will allow him to leave the burn unit of the hospital, but the Allied World Council of Representatives want Hadeon transported as soon as possible.
PIRLO
Your guys are the ones who usually carry guns, San.
SANNARO
True, but Hadah needs us to be ready to defend the Kumani in case the other pirates try to attack us to free Hadeon. Since you PE are internal security, I need you to watch Hadeon while my pilots are on alert to guard space.
PIRLO
Okay, we’ll accept two pistols and belts only. I don’t want my guys to get use to being armed.
SANNARO
Good enough. I’ll issue the equipment to you.
PIRLO
And I’ll make the guard rotation schedule. When are we going to get this unkafata?
SANNARO
As soon as you’re ready.
PIRLO
Okay, I’ll inform Hadah when I’m done.
SANNARO
And I’ll return to the hospital before Danu lectures me.
PIRLO
Better you than me.
SANNARO
Later, Pirlo.
PIRLO
Later, San.
Sannaro left the office and returned to the hospital.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I talked with Pirlo, Hadah. I told them they would guard Hadeon in a locked apartment while armed with a pistol in shifts and Marc would join them when he could. Pirlo is drawing up the shift schedule.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Good. How do you plan to restrain him?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
We’ll keep the restricting cuffs on him and a locator.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Sounds like a workable plan. Are you returning to the Hospital?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, I am.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
I’ll inform Danu, your returning to his care.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
All right, I’ll be there in a few minutes.
Sannaro stepped out of the elevator to Danu with his arms crossed.
DANU
Hadah says he’s released you?
SANNARO
Houk.
DANU
Burn unit, now. You know the procedure. Strip in the antechamber, scrub in the shower, not directly under the stream, get into a gown and get to bed.
SANNARO
Houk, Senior Doctor.
DANU
In a half hour, I’m coming in so I can do a biopsy to begin growing skin. Where do you want the first piece cut this time?
SANNARO
How authentic do you want the skin sample?
DANU
Close.
SANNARO
Owe, that means off the back.
DANU
How about the upper buttocks? That’s close enough.
SANNARO
I’ll still be really sore, but you’re the doctor.
DANU
I’ll be gentle. I don’t want my brother-in-law too mad at me. It’s not good for the marriage to his sister.
SANNARO
I think I like your reasoning, Doctor.
DANU
Off with you. Countdown begins now.
Sannaro rushed down the hall as fast as protocol allowed to begin his shower.
FADE OUT.
THE END.