Lyssa Thorne's
Science Fiction Novels
Double Dragon Ebooks
This episode is dedicated to the brave firefighters of the Waldo Canyon and Black Forest wildfires of Colorado. I was a resident who was not directly effected by these fires but I was huddled in my house only miles away as I feared the fires would turn toward my home.
Inspiration for this story also came from the "Neverending Mine Fire" of Centralia, Pennsylvania that started in 1962 and still burns today.
Perhaps if they had Tauians to fight that fire, a whole town wouldn't be abandoned?
“SHATTERED EXPECTATIONS”
EPISODE 89 – WILD FIRE!
BY: LYSSA THORNE
FADE IN:
EXT. SALT FLATS, ALPHA CENTAURI – DAY
Nikklo and Marc saw an astonishing amount of people and animals huddling on the white ground.
Marc walked forward.
MARC
Kadiba.
BROCANA #1
What clan?
BROCANA #2
It matters not. We will all be claimed by the suns.
MARC
I am from Clan Kelhidi. I'm looking for a Human man who loves a Brocana woman.
BROCANA #1
I am from Clan Dokodril. We Brocana are scattered and scared. The Gelstone fields will burn everything.
MARC
How did the fire start?
BROCANA #1
I do not know. I am only a Klevie herder.
Marc wandered through the field to look at faces.
NIKKLO
This won't work. I don't know about you but I'm getting hot.
MARC
I'm hot too.
Nikklo concentrated on sensing Jon Daniels' mind and locked on.
NIKKLO
I found him.
Nikklo moved through the crowd more confidently.
A very dirty disheveled Jon Daniels rushed to hug Marc.
JON
Why have you come here?
MARC
You didn't answer my calls.
NIKKLO
The Gelstones that are being distributed throughout the galaxy are tainted with the parasite. They're getting sick and the only people who know how to combat the parasite are huddled on this salt bed dying.
JON
Who are you? I feel like I've met you before but I can't place your face.
NIKKLO
Oh, right, I'm Nikklosannaro in disguise. I hid my metallic skin.
JON
Sannaro? Now I see you have the same face. Your disguise is very good. It's not good that there are reports of the gelstone parasite sickness this soon.
NIKKLO
Do you know the remedy?
JON
It's a protected secret among the Brocana miners.
NIKKLO
How did this fire start?
JON
I've only heard rumor that a Human was arguing with a Brocana at Kobihok ridge and it got out of hand. Now the Gelstone fields are burning unchecked. If only we could take whole salt beds and drop it on the burning ridges to snuff the fire out.
HUMAN MINER #1
That would take a crazy transport beyond our strength to do!
NIKKLO
What if I told you it could be done with minimal equipment?
HUMAN MINER #1
I'd call you crazy.
MARC
What are you thinking, Nik?
NIKKLO
The salt can be cut into slabs and Tauians who have enough phasing ability could phase the salt slabs to a burning Gelstone field and drop the salt on the fire. We can repeat the process until the whole ridge is covered in salt. Then we can snuff the fire and the gelstones will solidify again. We Tauians can do more than conquer! We can save this planet and all it's people if you would give us a chance!
Jon looked up toward the burning ridge.
JON
We're desperate.
HUMAN MINER #1
Okay, Tauian. Please help us. I just hope you are a Tauian since we can't see your kind unless you're in disguise.
MARC
He's a Tauian. This morning, I was on Gasbaja in a bunker and only hours later, I'm talking to you on Centauri 7.
HUMAN #1
Selik says Tauian are deceptive!
NIKKLO
Any sentient being can be deceptive! There is history dating back before space travel on Earth where pure Humans have come together on a water ship and called themselves pirates! Has anyone heard of Blackbeard or read the classic story of Moby Dick? Those are legends of pure Humans who deceived people and even their own crew to believe they had the best interest in mind for those who relied on them!
Some people were nodding their heads in agreement.
NIKKLO
How about Adolf Hitler or Benito Mussolini? They were Humans who deceived their people by telling their countrymen their lives would improve if you followed their lead! The only difference we Tauians have is that we are Arthropods who have crystal carapaces that Humans can't see. Otherwise, we have the same failings or goodness of any other sentient specie. I'm offering to bring other Tauians who want peace as much as I do to move salt blocks to the mountains so we can put out the flames that are consuming the Gelstone. I only ask that in return, the Brocana please share with us how to kill the Gelstone parasite that is sickening anyone who discharges a laser! If we don't work together, we're all going to die.
JON
How were you told this?
NIKKLO
Sam Turner and I grew up on Regalis in a mining town called Bristol. Our fathers mined Seranimite. Sam called me yesterday to tell me the laser canon operators who cut new mining tunnels to find seranium were getting sick from the Gelstone parasite and he wanted me to ask my second-in-command, a Brocana, how to kill the parasite. He tried to call his father Jon Daniels to ask his mother's Clan Kelhidi but he received no answer. He begged me to phase him to Centauri 7 to find his father and that led us here.
BROCANA SHAMAN #1
The remedy for the parasite is out there on fire!
NIKKLO
That's why we need to douse the flames! My Tauian people can help to put out this fire!
HUMAN MINER #1
I think the only way we can stop this fire is to accept Nikklo's help.
Many people nodded in agreement.
NIKKLO
You put together a list of what you need. I'll go back to New Sailia and ask Tauians to volunteer to move salt. When we return, we can phase any machinery you will need to cut salt slabs so you won't have to figure out how to move the machinery around the hot-spots. Marc, are you willing to stay here to coordinate the location of machinery?
MARC
I'll stay. We'll have that list mostly done by the time you return.
BROCANA #3
You are Clan Kehidi?
MARC
Yes, I am Clan Kehidi.
Marc raised his arm and showed the man the brand on his inner arm.
BROCANA #3
Although you are a klevie herder, I will work with you. We will help you quiet the fire.
MARC
We will work together so Bamasha will be saved.
Nikklo stepped away to make sure no one was touching him.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
INT. TAUIAN CITY, NEW SAILIA - DAY
Nikklo appeared at the inside park where he met Talia.
NIKKLO
All Tauians, I need to ask a favor of as many Tauians to phase large blocks of salt around on Alpha Centauri 7. There is a large fire raging in the Gelstone ridges. Salt is needed to seal the Gelstone so the fire can be suppressed.
Nikklo saw a blur near him and saw Ilanit was at his side.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I will help, Nikky.
TALIA
I will help.
FEREX
I will go.
The park filled with Tauians.
CHORUS (PSI V.O.)
We will go, Nikklo.
NIKKLO
How many need a group to phase?
Many people raised their hands.
NIKKLO
Okay, we can break up into groups so that we can have the strength to phase the salt blocks. Those of us who are stronger, we can break up into smaller groups. Those of us who are strong enough to Astral phase can take blocks as long as they have the strength.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
But if we group together to phase blocks even though we can do it solo, we can phase more blocks.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Good point, Ilanit. We'll go with your plan and set up phasing teams.
TALIA
I would team up with Nikklo.
FEREX
I will team up with Nikklo, too.
NIKKLO
That sounds like a good team. Thank you, Talia and Ferex. The rest of you can organize teams. Once we have our teams, we can prepare a prism ship to transport us all to Alpha Centauri 7. I think this will be the first time I've voluntarily traveled on a prism ship.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I will prepare my prism ship for transport. I sense an ulterior motive, Nik. Would you like to share it with me?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I've been trying to convince the Humans that we aren't just conquerors and can be beneficial. If we provide a unique service that leads to the suppression of this fire, the Humans may find their fears toward us eased.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I understand. Yes, that is a good plan. It may work. I hope it will work.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
It may break the coercer's control of the Humans.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I thank you for the effort you are showing to seek peace, Nikky.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Peace for the Tauians is good for everyone's survival.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
My prism ship is above us. We should phase to it and travel to Alpha Centauri 7.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We should. All Tauians, phase to Ilanit's prism ship.
He followed Ilanit to the prism ship and they all appeared in the center widest area of the ship.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
My phase team, prepare for phase.
Nikklo sat cross-legged on the floor and centered himself.
TALIA (PSI V.O.)
You're not sure what to expect.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Shouldn't you be with Linea?
TALIA (PSI V.O.)
I told Cherna you urgently needed all Tauian help but I would return if she needed me to help her. I did give her advise about raising Tauian children.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Thank you, Talia. I've been a fugitive all my life so I don't know how to work with a Tauian team.
She took Nikklo's hand.
TALIA (PSI V.O.)
Your Astrisi command structure is not that different. You remind me of young Tarek. You are so intelligent and creative but you are awkward in social groups. We'll experience the phase together and soon you can begin your brilliant plan. You will show yourself to be the great leader Tarek has always believed you to be.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Even though I've been through hundreds of missions, I never stop worrying myself to distraction before the mission begins.
TALIA (PSI V.O.)
You care so deeply about everyone. That's why Beken could never win your submission and Kellin will never understand your need to protect people.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
You can't imagine the all pervasive loneliness. The raw desire to find someone to talk to, to touch you and dry your tears when you hurt. A sentient pulsar is the loneliest existence in all of reality. I need to care and be cared about.
TALIA (PSI V.O.)
You're doing a great job of finding what you need.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Thank you.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
We are approaching Alpha Centauri 7.
Nikklo stood again.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Prepare to phase. I am taking us to a dry lake salt bed where many people are taking refuge from the fire. To make this phase easier, we should link together so I can phase us all to one location.
Everyone took hands.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
We're all linked, Nikky.
Nikklo phased to the edge of dry river bed where there were few people so all the Tauians would land and not collide with anyone.
EXT. SALT FLATS, ALPHA CENTAURI 7 - DAY
Nikklo changed form and walked over to Jon Daniels.
HUMAN NIKKLO
NIKKLO
I have brought a large group of Tauians. Not all can change form to appear to you but we're here to move salt.
JON
Please have those who can change form appear to us so we know the Tauians are there.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Tauians who can even do limited shape changing, take a form the Humanoids can see. The Humanoids want to be reassured that we are willing to be seen because we're here to help them.
Suddenly, a large group of people of different forms appeared. Most were of Humanoid shape but some were in animal form clustered together where Nikklo had landed them.
Jon looked at the shift across the salt and gasped.
JON
All of those are Tauian who have come to help us?
NIKKLO
Yes, these you see are Tauians who have voluntarily come with me. There are many more who can't change shape.
JON
Impressive. We thank you for your volunteers, Nikklo.
Human Miner #1 stepped up with an electronic pad in his hands.
HUMAN MINER #1
Here's a list of equipment that need to be moved here to cut salt.
Nikklo looked over the list.
NIKKLO
Good, most of these machines seem to be in a centralized location near New San Francisco.
HUMAN MINER #1
That's our storage facility.
NIKKLO
Okay, we'll break up into our phasing teams. We'll need a person with each group who knows exactly where the machine that needs to be moved is located to minimize the time it takes to get these machines here. The people who are taking shelter here need to be moved off the salt bed so we can safely land these machines, Jon.
JON
Okay, I'll organize for the refugees to be relocated to a safe spot on the dry lake.
MARC
I will help my father.
NIKKLO
Okay, that will work. If you need any help, just shout in my head, Marc.
MARC
Will do.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Ferex, Talia, please come to me so we can begin phasing equipment.
Ferex and Talia appeared beside him and changed form.
NIKKLO
This is my team. Please think of the place your machine is. I will be in telepathic contact with your mind only to know where it is so I can phase to it. The phase will feel like a quick elevator ride. You'll get a dropping sensation then you'll be at your storage yard.
HUMAN MINER #1
I have to admit, I'm a bit anxious about this.
MARC
Don't worry, I've phased many times with Nikklo and he always gets where he's going.
NIKKLO
We want to put out this fire.
HUMAN MINER #1
This fire has to be put out. Okay, let's phase this cutter.
NIKKLO
Casually put your hand on me and think of the place your machine is.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
Nik, I know you're new to a group phase. When you get the location, share it with me and Talia. Open your shields to us and we'll come together to share the power needed for the phase. You will grab the light and we'll help you steady your course.
Nikklo took a deep breath and opened his shields. He took the information from the Human and shared it with Ferex and Talia before he changed forms and grabbed the light.
TAUIAN NIKKLO, FEREX AND TALIA PHASING VISUAL
They managed to keep a true course over the convection waves across Centauri 7 and dropped into the storage yard.
EXT. STORAGE YARD – ALPHA CENTAURI 7 -DAY - CONTINUOUS
HUMAN MINER #1
Oh wow, what a ride.
He pointed to a machine a short distance away.
HUMAN MINER #1
That's our rock cutter I want to move. Now, how are we going to go back with this huge machine?
NIKKLO
I am a telekinetic. I can touch the machine and will it to travel with us.
HUMAN MINER #1
You guys are a trip. I can't imagine doing what you guys do.
NIKKLO
We travel on light regularly. You've been in heavy protective gear?
HUMAN MINER #1
Yeah, not fun to move around in.
NIKKLO
Well, we have a shell that feels a lot like being in a spacesuit all the time. It's hard for us to move with the shell so we learned to move on light like you move on a moving walkway so we don't have to try to walk on stiff armored legs all the time.
HUMAN MINER #1
That makes sense, in a way.
Nikklo walked up to the machine and touched it.
NIKKLO
Okay, everyone touch me again and we'll phase the machine back to the dry lake.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
Okay, Nik, you use your polarity power to attach yourself to the machine and nothing else. Talia and I will do the phase so you don't have too much of a power drain doing this phase.
TALIA (PSI V.O.)
I've heard how you've exhausted yourself when you have phased too many objects in succession. We don't need you to exhaust yourself too quickly since you're the person directly coordinating this project with the Humans.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Okay, I'll just pull the machine.
Nikklo changed to TAUIAN NIKKLO.
Ferex grabbed a light beam.
PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo held on to the machine and shifted with them until they appeared on the dry lake. He let go of the machine.
HUMAN NIKKLO, HUMANOID FEREX AND TALIA
EXT. DRY LAKEBED – ALPHA CENTAURI 7 – DAY - CONTINUOUS
HUMAN MINER #1
Wow, I was skeptical you could pull this off but we're here with the machine! Thank you, Nikklo. We can cut the salt now. Once we have enough salt slabs cut, I'll show you the areas on the ridge where we think the salt will suppress the gelstone the most.
NIKKLO
Okay, I'll be joining the refugees in the safe area until you're ready to move the salt.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL to Marc.
Marc turned around suddenly.
HUMAN NIKKLO
MARC
Whoa, did you have to pop in so close?
NIKKLO
There are a lot of people here.
MARC
I see the cutters are here.
NIKKLO
Yep, we just brought them in.
JON
It's nice to see us working together. Thank you, Nikklo. This is what we needed.
NIKKLO
Are a lot of people missing?
JON
There's very little communication between the refugee camps. Bamasha is a mess.
NIKKLO
You called your planet by it's native name.
JON
I married a native. She's trying to be brave but I see her staring at the flaming ridge with tears in her eyes. I feel the pain of the Brocana intimately. I don't feel very proud to be Human right now.
NIKKLO
Remain strong, Jon Daniels. We will deliver the salt to seal the gelstone so your fire suppression teams can douse the flames.
JON
And I appreciate the help for the sake of the Brocana whose lands are being destroyed here.
Candora stopped beside her husband and son.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
CANDORA
Jon, who is this?
MARC
Oh, right, she doesn't know. Mother, this is Sannaro in disguise. He goes by the name Nikklo now.
CANDORA
What happened to your Saili skin? Otherwise you look the same.
NIKKLO
You're right, I'm hiding my Saili shiny skin right now for a more Human look. I am not Saili. I'm actually a Tauian shape-changer.
CANDORA
You've always been Saili.
NIKKLO
I always appeared Saili because I thought I was Saili. I had amnesia. Now that I have all my memories back, I now know I can change my appearance at will. This is my Human appearance. I'm trying to limit the attitudes I may receive from the Humans to help suppress the fire here.
CANDORA
That fire must be put out. Much is being lost.
NIKKLO
I agree. Since Bamasha is burning, there are people getting sick from the Gelstone parasite. We need the Brocana able to find the cure so they can control the parasite infestation again.
CANDORA
The Kaluka grass is burning. There will be no cure if the Kaluka grass is not saved.
MARC
What? Mother, you know the remedy?
CANDORA
Every good Shaman should know the Kaluka grass kills the parasite. It's important knowledge to keep the Clan healthy.
MARC
I did not know you were a Shaman?
CANDORA
No, I'm not a shaman. Jabayu was the shaman. I knew many things because he talked to me about the cures he did. Before I left the Clan to marry your father, Jabayu would send me out to harvest the Kaluka grass to store for parasite cures.
MARC
Damn, all these years I just thought Sinvati liked Kaluka grass because it was a favorite.
CANDORA
Well, Sinvati do like the taste of Kaluka grass but they also ate it to prevent the parasite illness.
NIKKLO
So we must save the Kaluka grass!
CANDORA
Yes, it is part of the cure.
NIKKLO
Thank you for this valuable information, Candora Daniels. Many sick people will be grateful for your knowledge.
CANDORA
Many sick and sad people will be grateful to you when you seal the gelstone so we may put out this fire.
Nikklo bowed his head in respect.
NIKKLO
I am honored to render this aide.
CANDORA
You are Sannaro. You know the ritual behaviors for speaking with Brocana.
NIKKLO
I value your son's friendship.
Workers walked through the camp and handed out pouches of food.
Nikklo sat down with Jon, Candora and Marc to eat the cold food. No one wanted to build a fire when Kobihok ridge was burning.
The Foreman squatted beside Nikklo.
HUMAN FOREMAN
Nikklo, we're going to need most of the night to cut enough salt slabs. We've brought in spotlights to give us light so we can continue to cut through the night. Tomorrow morning, I'll come back to show you where the salt slabs need to be moved to.
NIKKLO
Okay, then I will see you in the morning.
Nikklo sat quietly and watched Aldumu drift below the fire capped mountains. As darkness fell, he pulled off his sunglasses and slipped the earpiece over the collar of his shirt.
Marc sat down beside him.
MARC
Hey, you look sad.
NIKKLO
Before the transformation, I thought Cheri was as proficient a fighter as I. I miss the days we were wing-mates in all things. Now it seems I'm always leaving her at home. It feels so unfair.
MARC
Life isn't fair, Nik.
NIKKLO
I know that. Sorry for snapping. My whole life has been a study in unfairness. I know the concept of fair is a Human method of measuring what one person has compared to what another person has. I still love her, Marc. I guess I'm just missing her.
MARC
I'm so glad Amber decided to come to me. It took her a lot of courage to fly out to Belvas to ask you for permission to speak to me. I can understand your feelings. We career warriors put our ladies through so much. They're very strong people, Nik.
NIKKLO
Yes, they are. I miss her curious blue eyes and her yellow hair framing her face as she cocked her head in question. She always cocked her head to the left.
MARC
You have it bad, Nik. I thought your Saili marriage link condition disappeared with your realization you were Tauian?
NIKKLO
Just because the Saili marriage link condition isn't there anymore doesn't mean I don't feel withdrawn from her.
MARC
If you want to just let off some steam, you know where I am.
NIKKLO
The people around us may not like it.
MARC
Brocana are good at finding hiding places.
NIKKLO
You rogue!
MARC
Yep, that's me.
Marc wandered off.
Nikklo curled up on the ground and tried to get comfortable. He rolled onto his back to stare at the stars above.
A dark shadow blocked his view of the stars.
NIKKLO
Marc, I was enjoying the view!
MARC
I brought you a Brocana rush mattress since laying on rock has to hurt. I can take it back?
NIKKLO
No, I would like to have the rush mattress. You're right the rock is very hard.
Nikklo stood up.
Marc dropped the grass-filled sack onto the ground and dropped another beside it.
Nikklo sat down on the mattress and laid back to watch the stars again.
MARC
Better?
NIKKLO
Much better. The night sky is glorious.
MARC
On the day I wed Amber, I promised her a night here on a hilltop where we could watch the stars and make love without worry.
NIKKLO
Did you give it to her?
MARC
I did. It was a wonderful night.
NIKKLO
Very romantic.
MARC
Very.
NIKKLO
Let's preserve your lovely memory.
MARC
You really are a very romantic person, Nik.
NIKKLO
I'm a hermaphrodite. I guess it's the girl in me coming through.
MARC
Yeah, I remember meeting your Nikole form. She was hot. It's no wonder the pirates tried to jump you before I shot them down.
NIKKLO
We managed to commandeer their shuttle to escape.
MARC
It was a good plan. We've had some interesting times, Nikklosannaro.
NIKKLO
That we have, Marcayo Daniels.
Nikklo rolled onto his side and slipped into sleep.
(LATER)
The next morning, Nikklo felt like he hadn't slept adequately but he knew that he had to push on and phase the salt.
He went to the tent where the miners had made a field office.
FOREMAN
There you are, Nikklo. We have adequate salt to begin. A team will stay back here and continue to cut slabs while we assign a miner to each of your teams to guide you to the location to drop the salt.
NIKKLO
Sounds good.
Foreman walked over to a map on a table of Kobihok Ridge with red squares drawn on certain areas.
FOREMAN
These red squares are the locations we miners and firefighters think will be the best drop zones. Now, once we drop the salt, we want to have a water pumper shuttle above to drop water on it to keep it from getting too hot and melt around the gelstone. Hopefully, the combination will make us able to snuff out the fire.
NIKKLO
Okay, I'll have to talk to my people to see how we can use these coordinates to guide us to phase to the right place.
FOREMAN
Then take the map so you can make your plan.
Nikklo took the map. He phased to the group of Tauians.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Ilanit, you have more experience with phasing to a target location. Can you help me figure out how we can take the Human's coordinates and make it something we can follow?
There was a distortion beside him and Ilanit appeared.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
May I see the map?
Nikklo held up the map before her.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
You know more about using coordinates than I am. Maybe you and I can scout these locations to give each team a visual telepathic picture of their target location before they phase the salt?
NIKKLO
That sounds like the easiest way to prepare each team for the move.
Nikklo used his knowledge of Human coordinates to guide Ilanit to the drop spots.
Once Ilanit memorized the lay of the land, she would send the image to the leader of the phase team to use as a destination point.
MONTAGE OF NIKKLO AND ILANIT PHASING TO DIFFERENT MOUNTAIN PEAKS ABOVE THE FIRE CELLS
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
As we send the image of where you're going, coordinate with the foreman to begin moving the block with a water drop shuttle to accompany you. Ferex, are you willing to talk to the foreman about coordinating the block drop and water shuttle?
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
I am willing, Nik. I'll begin the talks now.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Good, Ilanit and I will continue to send target images to the teams.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
It feels good to be working with you, Nikky, but I sensed your thoughts last night. Your mind only thought about Cherna. Your friend Marcayo is right, you miss Cherna badly. She is the being you love.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I'm glad you understand that I do love Cherna. That doesn't mean I don't have any feelings for you. I value your friendship.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I am glad we can be friends. I cannot forget your mercy of introducing me to the crystallines to heal me. I am almost whole again because your kindness.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I hope we're almost finished with this spotting mission. I'm getting tired.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
We should go back to the dry lake to rest.
TAUIN NIKKLO AND ILANIT PHASING VISUAL back to refugee camp.
HUMAN NIKKLO
MARC
Are you alright?
NIKKLO
Scouting the drop zones is tiring work. Ilanit and I have phased to a dozen sites to forward the image to the teams. I'm depleted.
MARC
Then rest and soak in sunlight. The teams are moving the salt now and the fire suppression crews are reporting some success. I think your plan is going to work, my friend.
NIKKLO
Good.
He sank onto his rush mattress and laid his head on his knees.
NIKKLO
I'm going to change back to Tauian form. This form doesn't like the strong sunlight.
MARC
Okay, I'll stay with you to tell people where you are.
TAUIAN NIKKLO
The foreman walked up to Marc.
FOREMAN
Where's Nikklo? The salt is molding around the gelstones just as we planned. It's making it easier for us to fight the fire!
HUMAN NIKKLO
NIKKLO
Good, I'm glad to hear this.
FOREMAN
There you are.
NIKKLO
I phased to many drop points so I'm a bit depleted. I'm taking a break before I go out to scout more locations.
FOREMAN
I don't know much about what tires a Tauian but you do look bushed. Nik, we're very grateful to you and your Tauians for helping us with this fire. It would've been a nightmare to contain if we ever could get that far. We're getting somewhere with your help.
NIKKLO
I'm glad to hear it.
FOREMAN
You just rest for now. I'll talk to you later.
The foreman walked away.
MARC
Is everything okay, Nik?
NIKKLO
I'm okay, and I mean that I'm okay. I try to be brave because I think people expect me to be brave when I'm quaking inside. I wonder when will Tarek and everyone else see that I'm not the hero they think I am.
MARC
That I don't agree with, Nik. Look at this complicated plan you thought up. It's working, my friend. My world is going to be saved because you cared enough to rally your people to transport salt blocks we would have had a hell of a time transporting. You are heroic. You just doubt yourself. It's not one of your better traits but it's you. Your family and friends have to coax you to keep going when you doubt yourself. I think sometimes you don't know how heroic you are. I think it's you who thinks your a sham. But there have been some mean-spirited people in your life who have tried to tear you down to make you more controllable and, in some ways, you listened too much to them.
NIKKLO
I don't know if I want to agree with you or slug you in the face.
MARC
If you want to slug me in the face, I'll live. I've taken blows from you before. You're a powerhouse but I know how to soften your blows.
NIKKLO
Like you're trying to do now?
MARC
Exactly. Please don't blame me for trying?
NIKKLO
I won't blame you or slug you. You're right I'm too hard on myself. Cheri said she needs to stop adding to my insecurity to force me to cry to get her way. I didn't know what to say to her, especially in front of Wanakaya.
MARC
At least she's working with Wanakaya to get better.
NIKKLO
Yes, because I don't think I could say goodbye to her. It would break my heart. Well, I think I should join Ilanit to scout more drop sites. This operation is going to take days.
MARC
It is a massive fire.
Nikklo phased to Ilanit.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I have enough energy to scout more drop sites.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Ferex has told me the foreman wants more drops.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I'm sure but this fire may take weeks for us to contain. We would still have to pace ourselves.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I agree. I have never seen so much uncontrolled fire or so many humanoids huddled in one place so scared to move.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
They have good qualities and we have good qualities. We need to learn how to live peacefully with each other to the benefit of both, not subjugate them or destroy them. Torture harms more than it keeps people in line. You and I know that painfully.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
I don't remember any good times with my father, only pain. I have enjoyed the absence of pain in my life thanks to you.
MONTAGE OF MOUNTAINOUS REGIONS
They spent several hours more scouting out drop sites.
Some ridges were capped with white with only smoke seeping through cracks where salt had already been dropped.
Once the suns began to set, Nikklo and Ilanit returned to the refugee camp to rest.
EXT. SALTFLATS – ALPHA CENTAURI 7 - SUNDOWN
TAUIAN NIKKLO enjoyed the remaining suns-time to absorb light while Marc sat beside him to mark his place.
Jon squatted beside Marc.
JON
Is Nik near?
Marc pointed to the rush beside him.
MARC
Right here. He's absorbing the last of the sunlight.
JON
Nikklo, your plan is working. The salt is sealing off the gelstone. Without the gelstone to fuel the fire, we've got 20% containment. Great work.
Nikklo changed forms.
HUMAN NIKKLO
JON
Please forgive me for this brazen statement, but I miss your Saili form.
NIKKLO
It's the form I had when you first met me so I understand. It feels strange to me too.
JON
So show yourself. There's no reason to hide.
Nikklo chuckled before he switched forms.
SAILI NIKKLO
For clarification, Saili Nikklo will be Nikklo.
NIKKLO
This feels right.
JON
There's my friend with the shiny yellow skin. Show your alien skin with pride, dear friend.
NIKKLO
It feels good to be in my normal skin again, to tell you the truth. It feels more natural than my crystal carapace.
JON
This aide you're doing here is to show the Humans that aliens have good skills to share with the intergalactic community. You can be as much a politician as I am.
NIKKLO
I'm no politician. I'm a tactician. A wildfire is still a battle.
JON
Yet your motivation is to have access to a cure to an illness-
NIKKLO
That I think is a threat to those I protect. There are similarities but enough differences. I was told I'm rather awkward in social situations. I look for action more than talk.
JON
And you do what you do well. Between you and me, we may turn Selik's argument right back into his face.
NIKKLO
I sure hope so. There's more at stake here then just getting Selik to shut up.
JON
What's this other problem, Nik?
NIKKLO
My evil grandmother. She took over leadership of the Tauians who were still loyal to Beken. Many of them are what we call Coercers. They're telepaths who enjoy playing with people's mind to convince they want to do what the Coercer wants them to do. These Tauians have been a chaffing spur on our shells forever.
JON
I can see why. So this is a family feud?
NIKKLO
Unfortunately. Tarek and I want to live peaceful lives but because of some infidelity in our past, we're the reviled step-children she just wants to destroy. She thinks destroying the Terran Alliance will wound me enough to make me so miserable that I'll want to end my life. The problem is, if I end my life, I'll explode planets and cause a domino effect that may cause a major catastrophe.
JON
Then we must convince your grandmother to end her feud. She should not want to destroy a galaxy for a grudge of jealousy. And, anyone who wants to push another sentient being into suicide is not a good person in any way.
NIKKLO
So now you know why Tarek and I have hid for hundreds of years in this region of the galaxy.
JON
Sad story, indeed, my friend.
NIKKLO
That's why I've been telling Selik he's working to defeat his people, not save them. So far it hasn't gotten through. Hopefully the collective mind of the Human spirit will halt their rush to self destruction.
JON
We can only hope, Nikklo.
NIKKLO
I need to give my Saili form some sleep. I'll see you in the morning.
JON
Have a good night, Nikklo.
Jon stood up and walked away.
Nikklo curled up on his rush mattress and slipped into sleep.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
MONTAGE OF CONTINUED FIRE SUPPRESSION
Nikklo sat on his mattress to take a break.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Di, how is it going on Gasbaja?
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
It's boring here. Everybody is paying attention to the news feeds from Centauri 7. They say it's a nightmare of a wildfire but the collaboration between the Tauians, Brocana and Humans, they're containing the fire.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Yep, that sums up the news. I learned what kills the parasite. I'm going to keep it to myself for now because I don't know the whole process of how to use it to purify the gelstones. I'll say this much, if we hadn't come together to fight this fire, the process for purifying the gelstone of parasites would have become rare.
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
So offering the Tauian's help was a good move?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Essential to our survival if we wanted to continue to use gelstones as the focal crystal in our weapons.
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
No one has even tried to move on Gasbaja and the Astrisi fleet are watching all approaches. Kumani has returned to orbit. Hadah thanks you and the Crystallines for helping with the repairs. He still thinks it's weird that he can now talk directly to Kumani but he'll get used to it.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Please tell him his news cheers me. We may be a few more weeks here before we can come home. We want to make sure the fire is completely out before we come home in case any gelstone seeps into the flames.
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
Definitely, that fire needs to be completely out. What started it?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
A Human argued with a Brocana is all I was told. I don't know how the argument started the fire.
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
Okay, I won't keep you any longer. We're waiting until you return for the shake-down flight. I'll shout if something comes up. Later, brother.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Later, brother.
MARC
So I'm assuming that you were talking to get an update on Euryanassa?
NIKKLO
You assumed right. It seems the focus has shifted from Selik's rants to how we're doing with containing the fire here. Di says it's been boring on Gasbaja. They're waiting for our return for the shake-down flight.
MARC
It's sure been too exciting here. I've been busy with helping my father order survival supplies for the refugees and fire crews. It's kept me as busy as you are with these scouting missions.
NIKKLO
The food and the mattress has been appreciated.
MARC
That's why my father and I have been asking for shuttle flights to bring in emergency supplies. Those of you fighting the fire need care. We'll get home soon to fly the Euryanassa to see if the repairs are complete.
NIKKLO
There's still a lot of small fires still burning in those mountains. I need to do more scouting missions.
MARC
Rest for a while, friend.
Marc handed him a food package he'd been carrying.
NIKKLO
Isn't that yours?
MARC
I can get another. You're the one doing the most work. I'm still your second-in-command. It's my job to make sure my commander can do his job. Right?
NIKKLO
It sure is your job.
He ripped open the package and began to eat.
NIKKLO
I'm getting tired of eating dehydrated rations.
MARC
Don't blame you there. They are tiring but no one wants to risk another fire.
NIKKLO
Not with the conflagration raging above us. I'm just tired of dry cold food.
MARC
We're all tired of cold food. We're tired of that fire.
NIKKLO
I need to do more fly overs. See you later.
He changed forms and phased to Ilanit.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Ready to do more scout missions?
Talia appeared.
TALIA
Ilanit is having trouble with the crystallines helping her to heal. They're too tired so she asked me to be your scout partner.
NIKKLO
We're all working so hard. Okay, Talia, let's fly out.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Nik, don't fly out. The last report from the fire suppression command says the fire is 99% contained! No more salt drops are required!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We did it.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Yeah, we did it, buddy.
NIKKLO AND TALIA HUMANOID FORMS
Nikklo and Talia changed back to visible form.
NIKKLO
We did it, Talia.
TALIA
Yes, we did. The fight is won.
Nikklo walked to the fire suppression command tent.
The Fire Chief met him as he stepped in.
CHIEF
Nikklo, we are so indebted to your Tauians for dropping the salt blocks. I'm not sure we would have been able to contain this fire if you hadn't offered your help.
NIKKLO
You are most welcome, Chief.
CHIEF
You should rest. You look wiped out.
NIKKLO
I am tired. Fighting this fire has been hard on us all.
CHIEF
Yes, it's been a great challenge with the gelstone to feed it. You did an awesome job. Thank you.
NIKKLO
Thank you, Chief. Now I would like to find Jon Daniels. He worked hard too.
CHIEF
Without his support, we would have been scrounging for supplies. He also was a great help. I'll let you move on now. Again, thank you, Nikklo.
Nikklo walked from the tent and concentrated to locate Jon. Once he sensed the politician, he tracked the man across the camp.
He found Jon at the edge of the camp with several other people who were looking at the smoldering mountains.
POLITICIAN #1
I see a lot of damage, Ambassador Daniels.
JON
There is a lot of damage but there could have been more without the concerted effort of the Brocana, Humans and Tauians. Because of them, we still have something to recover and without General Nikklo and his Tauian forces, it would have been much harder to transport the salt to seal the Gelstone from the fire.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Jon, can I have permission to speak with the Brocana shaman about finding Kaluka grass to resume purifying the gelstone imports?
JON
After I'm finished with these representatives, I'll pass on your request to the Brocana.
NIKKLO
Okay.
JON (PSI V.O.)
I sympathize, my friend. I've learned some things just need to be in a specific sequence to work out. I will ask for you.
JON
We're very much indebted to them for doing such a fine job to help with fire suppression.
NIKKLO
We came to help because we were able to offer a unique service that made it easier to fight this fire.
POLITICIAN
I find it difficult to believe you only came here to offer your unique service?
NIKKLO
I am an Astrisi Commander of the Euryanassa. Some of my people have become ill from the Gelstone parasite. I came to Centauri 7 along with my second-in-command, Marc Daniels, Jon Daniels' son, to buy the medicines to cure my Astrisi people. When I arrived, I saw the massive wildfire and realized my Astrisi people were not going to get well unless I offered my Tauian abilities and allies to suppress the fire. Is that enough for you to believe why I came here?
POLITICIAN #2
I can believe what Nikklo says because I've heard about some people in careers that required firing lasers that have become ill from the Gelstone Parasite. I also came to find out if Alpha Centauri 7 would be able to provide the medicine to help these people become well.
JON
Those are very valid concerns, gentlemen. I will be speaking with the Brocana later today to ask them if they will be able to find what is needed to make the remedy despite this terrible tragedy. Once I have spoken with the Brocana elders, I will pass on any important news from the meeting on to you.
POLITICIAN #1
Good enough, Ambassador Daniels. I'll be looking forward to your report on the Brocana meeting.
NIKKLO
I too.
JON (PSI V.O.)
Nik, I know you'll be more involved in the meeting since you know how to address Brocana without offending them.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I hoped you'd invite me to that meeting.
JON (PSI V.O.)
I'll invite you and Marc since both of you know about the situation with the parasite.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Okay, call in my head when you're ready to start the meeting with the Brocana. I'm going to collapse on my mattress and do absolutely nothing.
JON
You deserve some down time, Nik. I'll make that call when I'm ready.
Nikklo walked back to his mattress and sat down.
Marc sat down on his mattress.
MARC
Wow, you're just sitting?
NIKKLO
Resting. The fire suppression crews are beginning the cleanup so there's not much for me to do and I'm exhausted.
MARC
You look exhausted.
NIKKLO
Now we have to negotiate with your people to get some of the medicine to kill the parasite and get back to Euryanassa to see if the repairs will hold.
MARC
Are you still going through with your deal with Sam Turner?
NIKKLO
If Sam hadn't alerted me to the parasite, it's quite possible that this fire wouldn't have been suppressed. Yes, I'm going to honor Sam's request for me to get the medicine.
MARC
Just asking. You Astrisi are tough business people. It's no wonder the Astrisi survived all these centuries without a planet.
NIKKLO
I learned a lot about survival from the Astrisi. Tarek wanted me to learn how to fight from them. I think learning to fight was the least of the skills I learned. I also learned how to be resourceful and creative with what I had at my disposal instead of wishing for what I didn't have. The Astrisi are survivors. Before I was Sannaro, I didn't know what to do most of the time. I was a scared teen who was asked to do more than I could cope with. As Sannaro, the Astrisi taught me how to cope. I'm a mentally stronger person now because I learned how to be Astrisi.
MARC
Sorry to say this, but aren't you lasting longer and being more effective now than you did as just Nikklo?
NIKKLO
Yes, I am. My life as Sannaro has made a big difference. I hope this collaboration will make a difference in the strained relationship between aliens and Humans.
MARC
I think it will.
JON (PSI V.O.)
Nik, I'm starting the meeting with the Brocana.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We're coming.
NIKKLO
Your father just sent me a telepathic message that he's gathering the Brocana elders for the meeting.
MARC
Then let's go.
They walked together to the Brocana tent.
Marc took the lead and peeked his head through the door curtain.
MARC
Marcayo of Clan Kelhidi and Nikklosannaro of clan Astrisi ask the elders permission to be among you in this place of meeting.
TERAMAR
Enter, Marcayo of Clan Kelhidi and Nikklosannaro of Clan Astrisi, the statue that walks.
Nikklo pulled back and began to laugh.
Nikklo remembered the last time he was on this planet in a embarrassing situation.
FLASHBACK EXT KOBIHOK MOUNTAINS - NIGHT
Marc walked ahead and stopped just over the crest of the hill.
MARC
Hey, I know that was funny but we're expected.
Nikklo tried to arrange his features and walked into the central area. He curled up and snorted into laughter again.
NIKKLO
I apologize.
Marc grabbed Nikklo's shoulders and guided him to sit.
MARC
My friend Nikklo is tired. He means no disrespect.
TERAMAR
I take no offense. I remember the last we met, Marcayo. I am cheered my joke was well received.
NIKKLO
Teramar of Clan Dokodril, I appreciate the joke.
TERAMAR
We have been very serious for many suns. This fire was frightening. We thank you and your Tauians for helping to seal the Gelstone from the fire.
NIKKLO
For the Tauians, I accept your thanks. We of the Clan Tauia wish to live in peace with the people of Bamasha and the other living worlds. We are orphans only seeking a place to live.
TERAMAR
Jonathan has explained to us your very interesting past. You do not use machines? You move on sunlight through your own body?
NIKKLO
We are living crystal. We move by pushing the light through our carapace. Now that I think about it, we do have few of what you would call machines.
TERAMAR
You are more natural.
NIKKLO
Yes, we're more natural although we can travel far in a short time.
TERAMAR
Your people are more acceptable to Brocana than the Humans. We both worship light.
NIKKLO
I guess we are more like Brocana.
TERAMAR
We have decided that because the argument almost destroyed what is needed to cure the illness from the parasite, we will share our recipe for the cure with the Tauians to prevent another plague. However, because so much of our land is burned, it would be difficult for us to find the ingredients.
NIKKLO
I would be willing to help find the ingredients. I can cover more area with my light phasing.
TERAMAR
That was also our thought. We ask that you please look for the ingredients. Since Candora of Clan Kelhidi knows what is needed, she has volunteered to guide you in the harvesting.
MARC
My mother? You're letting my mother attend council?
TERAMAR
You object, Marcayo of Clan Kelhidi?
MARC
No! I'm overjoyed. Women are as talented and skilled as a man.
ELDER #1
No! We should not share our cure with an off worlder! We have only given Shaman to men! This spits on tradition of many suns!
DANIKO
(SHOUT)
Many have died! Do you remember how many Brocana died in the mines of Kobihok Ridge?
MARC
I was there in those mines! We were treated like vermin!
Nikklo and Marc walked from the tent.
They walked back to their mattresses.
FADE OUT.
THE END
NIKKLO
That is good news, Jon.
A plume of molten gelstone arched into the air with flames billowing around it. Nikklo jumped to his feet.
NIKKLO
We have to douse this surge! Marc, go prepare a water drop shuttle!
MARC
Right!
Marc sprinted toward the shuttle parking field.
TAUIAN NIKKLO
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
My team, come to me now! We have to drop salt on that plume!
TAUIAN Talia and Ferex appeared at Nikklo's side.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
We are ready, Nikklo!
Nikklo pointed to a block of salt.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We will phase that block above the plume now!
They team phased to the block. Nikklo placed a hand on the hard white salt.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I'm connected to the salt! Phase me to the plume!
Ferex and Talia performed the phase and hovered above the crimson red, orange and black plume of gelstone.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Marc, I need that water shuttle now!
MARC (PSI V.O.)
I'm on my way with a tech!
Seconds later, a shuttle lumbered to hover above them with a water bladder sloshing below them on a tether line.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Dropping the salt into the crack right now!
Nikklo pulled his hand back.
The white block plunged toward the gaping crack in the ground wher the plume spewed from and hit the ground with a loud crack. The block broke up and the salt foamed and bubbled.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Drop the water!
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Dropping water now!
The big plug dropped down and the massive amount of water dropped from the air and slammed into the bubbling salt. With a loud hiss, the salt cooled and crackled. When the steaming ash cloud dissipated, the crack was a glistening glassy white and sealed.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We did it! The crack is sealed and the gelstone flow has stopped!
The air filled with cheers.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
(Tiredly)
Let's phase back to base.
The team phased back to the salt flats. As soon at they landed, Nikklo, Talia and Ferex changed to Humanoid form. They were crowded with excited people who congratulated them for a job well done. Once things settled, Nikklo tiredly returned to his mattress. Marc returned soon after.
HUMAN NIKKLO
For clarification, Human Nikklo will be Nikklo.
MARC
I was resigned to not being allowed to fly the water drops before, but since that was so sudden, they found a tech but no pilot so they let me be the pilot!
NIKKLO
Thanks for your quick action, Marc.
MARC
I was glad to do it.
Jon rejoined them.
MARC
Kadiba, I am Marcayo of the Clan Kelhidi. I apologize for my state of undress. My friend and I were waylaid by a Renegade. I would like to ask for aide, if you would be so kind.
ABREDHI
Waylaid by a Renegade?
MARC
We were.
ABREDHI
What is that shining thing?
Marc turned to see the Brocana man was pointing at Sannaro who was shining like a star in the night.
MARC
That is my friend. He is not Brocana. He is an off-worlder of the Saili.
ABREDHI
He looks like a statue from the Jhumani village stepped down from a block and took a walk!
MARC
Yes, he is shiny gold, but he won’t harm you. Balda and Aldumu are burning him to agony. I wish to ask for help to clothe him so he will not be claimed by the suns.
ABREDHI
I must talk with the village elder before I can give an answer, Marcayo of the Clan Kelhidi.
MARC
That is acceptable to me.
ABREDHI
I am Abredhi of the Clan Dokodril.
MARC
Well met, Abredhi of the Clan Dokodril.
The man turned and walked to the cluster of tents.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I think that conversation went well. He’s decided to have mild distrust instead of feeling fully guarded.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
It went as well as I could have hoped. He’s asking the village elder before he’s willing to say they’ll help us.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
At least we’re getting somewhere. A Human statue? Oh, that’s hysterical!
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Come to think of it, you kind of do look like a walking statue or one of those Earth Egyptian hieroglyphs off a pyramid wall.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Thank you oh so much, Marcayo! If I were closer to you, I might smack you on the head!
Marc saw movement in the camp.
MARC
Can’t let you do that. Abredhi is returning.
INT BROCANA MEETING TENT (PRESENT) - DAY
Marc pulled back to where Nikklo stopped.
Nikklosannaro received the thoughts of Marc's time in the mines.
FLASHBACK TO BROCANA PRISON
Marc nearly jumped out of his skin when he was awakened by a kick in the knee. It buckled and he fell to the floor. He shook his head and looked up.
GANUVIAN #1
On your feet, trash.
Marc stood up and massaged his knee. He almost fell again when he was shoved toward the door. He rejoined Jabayu and followed him deep into the mine.
INT - KOBIHOK GELSTONE MINE
When the Brocana reached the work area, Marc was shoved toward a place where no one was digging and was thrown hand tools to dig with. He got down on his knees and began to pick at the rock.
He was a little cheered when the wall cracked and a large rock rolled down from the wall. He hissed when it slammed into his sore knee. He pushed the rock to the side and saw red ooze roll from the hole.
MARC
Hey, guard, how do I get the gel out? You have a scoop or something?
GANUVIAN #1
(SNEERING)
Sure! Here’s your scoop, worm.
The guard held up Marc's hands.
The other Ganuvian guards snickered.
MARC
But the gel's hot!
GUARD #1
You better get it out before it hardens or you’ll have to pick it out and if you cause a flaw, I’ll flog you!
Marc gulped as the Ganuvian bounced his long whip against the palm of his hand. He turned back and braced himself as he scraped the gel off the rock with his fingers. He hissed as pain spread up his arms. He dropped the hardening red gel into a metal bowl, then turned back to scoop out more.
Once the gel was out, Marc blew on his fingers to cool them again before he took up his pick and attacked the rock again.
LATER
He had to scoop out another gel deposit later that day.
GANUVIAN #1
Stop for lunch.
When Marc stood up, he swayed as he fought for control of his numb legs.
Jabayu grabbed him by the shoulders to steady him.
JABAYU
Marcayo, control your body or the guards will hit you.
Marc forced himself steady as the line walked through the dimly lit tunnels.
Shortly they came to a dirty table with a large pot on it.
Marc was shoved a bowl before he stepped up to the pot. He gasped when he saw the dirty woman with stringy dark hair, dull eyes and skin color that showed she'd not seen sunlight for weeks.
MARC
Etana?
ETANA
Be quiet! You get us both hit.
Etana plopped some mushy stuff into his bowl.
Marc nodded as he turned away from the pot and lowered himself to the ground beside Jabayu.
MARC
Etana here too?
JABAYU
Be quiet, no talk.
Jabayu scooped the gray gruel into his hand and shoved it into his mouth.
Marc snarled down at the gruel after his first taste. It was nearly tasteless with the consistency of cold oatmeal. They didn’t even have the decency to allow them a spoon to eat it with.
Marc imagined he really didn't look any better than Etana with his washed-out skin color and his uniform in tatters hanging around his waist, covered with rock dust. His hands were scabbed and blistered from digging out the two lousy gel deposits before the stuff had the chance to cool and congeal into it's hard stone form. His right hand that had been shot was now an almost rigid claw. Besides that, his lungs burned from breathing the dust, his head ached, his knee hurt and his stomach muscles were still tight and sore from the punches he'd received in the stomach from Rasmuler's personal guard as well as the guard in the hall.
LATER
Hours later, he pulled himself out of his tunnel and gasped fresh air into his fiery lungs.
GANUVIAN #1
Get to work!
MARC
I need to rest.
Ganuvian #1 pointed the handle of his whip at the rock pile and the conveyor that rolled upwards toward the surface.
GANUVIAN #1
Okay, do it by hauling these stones into the conveyor.
Marc nodded and moved over to the pile and picked one up.
He managed to shift five boulders onto the conveyor before his strength failed him and he fell to the ground.
The guard pulled his whip from his belt and stood over Marc.
GANUVIAN #1
Get up, you lousy mule.
The guard whipped Marc across the back.
Marc winced from the pain, but pulled up to his hands and knees. He managed to get one foot under him and heave himself up to a swaying stand where he fell against the guard.
The guard shoved Marc off him and propelled him into the conveyer belt.
He fell sideways to the ground again, holding his aching back.
MARC
I think I'll go back to digging.
Marc crawled toward his hole that was nearly half his height.
The guards guffawed as he went.
Once he was back in, he collapsed panting hard.
KOBIHOK GELSTONE MINE (CONTINUOUS FROM EPISODE 90 – WILDFIRE)
He started to cough when the rock dust hit his lungs again, searing them. He yelped when he felt strong hands grip his ankles and pull him back out.
The same guard stood over him, grinning like a horrible giant.
GANUVIAN #1
Well, so, you thought you could rest in your hole, worm? We don't have time for lazies like you!
MARC
(GRITTING TEETH)
If you'd just let me rest for a while, I'll be able to do more work for you.
GANUVIAN #1
Hear that? The worm wants to rest!
The other guards laughed.
GANUVIAN #1
Do you see any of the other worms resting?
Ganuvian #1 swept his arm out to encompass the other working Brocana.
MARC
No.
GANUVIAN #1
So, get working!
Ganuvian #1 whipped Marc across the back again.
Marc felt anger swell in him. He rolled over in time to see the whip falling again. He grabbed the whip. It stung as it curled around his hand. He yanked the whip.
It flew out of the hand of startled Ganuvian #1.
MARC
Don't hit me again!
He flipped the whip and grabbed the handle. He unwound the tip from around his hand and swung it above his body.
Ganuvians stumbled away from the humming leather.
Before they could recover, Marc rolled over and jumped to his feet.
The other Brocana surged at the Ganuvians and attacked them.
BACK TO TENT AT SALT FLATS
MARC
Or the Brocana Killer who killed many, including my mother's brother Jabayu who was a Shaman of Clan Kelhidi!
Nikklo again saw the memories surface in Marc's mind of the painful trial.
FADE TO FLASHBACK OF NEW SAN FRANCISCO COURT ROOM (PAST)
COUNCILOR
And how many people did you kill for 'taking what was yours'?Ten Brocana? Or am I figuring low?
The defender surged to his feet.
DEFENDER
Your honor, I would like to speak with my client!
Ellerman slapped the air with his hand.
ELLERMAN
Hell, is that all you think I killed? Your figure is way low, you bitch. I killed fifteen blue-skins and did three of their women before I killed them, too!
Marc surged up from his chair.
MARC
(SHOUT)
You sick bastard!
ELLERMAN
Should have had you number 16, too, a blue-skin pig! I enjoyed fucking your cousin's woman! Had more fun killing her in front of your face!
Marc felt rage overwhelm him. He was about to jump over the table to attack Ellerman when Jim grabbed his arms.
ELLERMAN
Let him go, pig! I'd like to finish your pet blue-skin off this time!
JIM
No, Marc, don't do it!
Marc knew he could tear away from Jim's grasp easily but his partner's grasp was an anchor of rationality that cut through his rage.
BACK TO TENT ON SALT FLATS
Nikklo returned his attention to the meeting.
MARC
Now the Mountains of Keldor are burned and many more are missing!
KORIELO
(SIGHING)
Our numbers are much less.
TERAMAR
Since so many were killed in the fire, we cannot continue the old way and push so many from our clans to be Renegade. We must show more tolerance. We need women of talent to fill in for the men who have perished.
MARC
This is good news to me. I thank you for honoring my mother with the title of Shaman.
TERAMAR
And so to be allowed to know the recipe, you must become a Shaman, too.
NIKKLO
What is required to become a Shaman?
TERAMAR
We will not require anything drastic. You must learn as much from Candora as you can while you are seeking the ingredients for the cure. Once you return, we will test your knowledge before we will allow you to learn how to prepare the cure.
NIKKLO
I will do as you ask.
TERAMAR
You may begin the search for the ingredients when you are ready.