Lyssa Thorne's
Science Fiction Novels
Double Dragon Ebooks
“BAMASHA'S REVENGE”
EPISODE 99 – FIGHT FOR FREEDOM
By: Lyssa Thorne
FADE IN:
INT. CREOREL'S OFFICE, NEW SAN FRANCISCO – DAY
BROCANA Nikklo stopped inching the belt up his arms when he heard a noise outside the office.
A portly Human with blond hair walked in and pulled the belt down farther over Nikklo's elbows.
RASMULER
I told Creorel to watch you carefully! Sometimes they just don't listen to my warnings.
Nikklo furrowed his brow and studied the mental frequency of this new Human.
NIKKLO
There's something about your mind not syncing with your form. You're not who you appear to be.
RASMULER
That's enough out of you or I will gag you next.
NIKKLO
And if you knew more about me, you would know that gagging won't stop me.
RASMULER
Yes, your notorious telepathy. The belt you wear also has a telepathy blocker.
The Human pressed a button on the belt.
Nikklo winced when he no longer sensed anything outside of himself.
RASMULER
Now that I gagged your telepathy, do I need to gag you mouth next?
NIKKLO
No, I'll be quiet now.
RASMULER
Good.
Creorel rushed through the door.
CREOREL
What are you doing to my prisoner, Rasmuler?
The Human huffed in frustration.
RASMULER
Creorel, did you have to tell your prisoner my name?
CREOREL
What else was I to call you? What are you doing to my prisoner?
RASMULER
He was in the process of escaping!
CREOREL
That's not possible! That closed light mesh makes it impossible for him to escape!
RASMULER
But it doesn't prevent him from nudging the belt off his shoulders to free his arms and allow him to reach the controls! This creature is highly intelligent and resourceful! You need to keep a better eye on him! I just had to bring up the telepathic block because you didn't activate that either! He could have contacted his ship to call down an attack squadron!
CREOREL
How am I expected to know everything this alien can do?
NIKKLO
Do you know who Rasmuler really is?
Rasmuler punched Nikklo on the mouth.
Nikklo gasped and opened his mouth to let the blood trickle down his chin.
NIKKLO
(thickly)
Great, now I'm going to have platted blood on my face.
CREOREL
So shut your mouth!
NIKKLO
I would if my tongue wasn't swelling a bit.
CREOREL
That's your fault.
Nikklo spit blood at Rasmuler.
RASMULER
Now do you see why you need to watch him closely?
CREOREL
I'll order a chin strap to keep him from talking or spitting.
Rasmuler glared at Nikklo before he stomped out the door.
Creorel sat at his desk to request a chin strap.
INT. JAYMA SPACE STATION
Jim walked into Steve's office with a pad in his hands.
JIM
Why wasn't I told that Ellerman escaped from death row?
Steve looked up from a report.
STEVE
What? Who's Ellerman?
JIM
Caleb Ellerman, aka the Brocana Killer? Marc and I apprehended him several years ago!
STEVE
Oh, right, the case where Daniels showed he was a loose canon.
JIM
That's not fair, Steve. He was angry that some members of his family were killed but he restrained himself and brought Ellerman in for due process of law!
Steve sighed and looked up at his Tech Officer.
STEVE
That's a terrestrial matter, not Intergalactic. I didn't think it was a concern because it's out of our jurisdiction.
JIM
I spent almost a month disguised as a Brocana to help my partner hunt down Caleb Ellerman to bring him to justice!
STEVE
So talk to the ground police about it. I can't do anything about it and neither can you.
JIM
I'm beginning to see why Marc retired and went into a private militia!
STEVE
You can tender your retirement at any time, Jim. Just don't wait until you get into trouble.
JIM
Thanks for the crappy advice, commander.
Jim rushed from the room.
EXT. KOBIHOK RIDGE MOUNTAINS – DAY
Marc was lulling numbly with his eyes closed. His family shuffled him on in the never ending trek through the mountains. He suddenly bumped into his father ahead of him and opened his eyes.
Before him was the gaping hole of a mine entrance.
A man shouted at the door to the foreman's shack.
GUARD #1
They're finally here!
ELLERMAN
It's taken them long enough!
The door opened and a Human with wild white hair walked through the door.
MARC
(angrily)
Caleb Ellerman!
ELLERMAN
Well, my, my, it's the blue skin cop! Gentlemen, bring the blue skin cop to me.
A guard grabbed Marc's arm and pulled him away from his family to push him to the man he had once arrested as a serial killer for hunting the Brocana. The guard stopped Marc in front of Ellerman.
ELLERMAN
So where you been hiding? Haven't seen you around these parts for a while.
MARC
Hunting bigger scum.
Ellerman punched Marc in the stomach.
ELLERMAN
Mind your manners, blue skin.
Marc woofed and bent over for a few seconds before he stood straight again.
ELLERMAN
Tough as always, I see. Take them blue skins into the mines and set them with a digging team.
They were guided into the mine lit with electric lights. They were broken up into several groups who were taken down by elevator to the current work area.
As they waited for the elevator to return, Marc saw his father Jon looked a bit pale.
MARC
Father, you do not look well.
Jon sighed.
Candora wrapped an arm around Jon and pressed her hand on his brow.
JON
I'm not sick, my dear, I am tired. The trek through the mountains was long and arduous.
MARC
I was teetering, too. I wish I had noticed you were struggling.
JON
Don't be critical of yourself, Marcayo. We are all in a difficult situation. I hope Nikklo contacts you soon.
MARC
So do I.
ZAKOTI
Cannot they allow us some rest before we are taken to work?
The elevator door opened and their group was herded inside. Soon after, it moved downward.
After a slow elevator ride the doors opened to a cavern. The guards lead the bedraggled group to an area where workers moved around with a digging machine.
GUARD #1
Hey, Brocana,grab a bucket and a scoop. When anyone sees gelstone seeping out from a break in the wall, scoop the gel into the bucket before it cools then bring it to the conveyor at the wall.
Marc walked over to the metal buckets and grabbed a scoop.
MARC
Well, at least they're not telling us to scoop it with our bare hands this time.
GUARD #1
Line up and as soon as you see gel seep through stone, the first person in line scoops that gel. If we see any of you try to not get to the front of the line, you're going to get hurt. Got it?
Many Brocana shook their heads in confusion.
Marc stepped in front of the group and repeated the guard's words in Brocana.
The confused people sighed dejectedly but nodded their heads that they understood.
Jon stepped before the digging machine and turned to the crowd.
JON
We will begin the line here.
He pointed to the ground in front of him.
Marc repeated his father's words in Brocana.
The group formed a line.
GUARD #1
Well, since you volunteered to be the start of the line, you get the first scoop.
Jon nodded and stepped over to the seeping gel to scoop it into his bucket.
More digging machines began to hit gel deposits and miners called the Brocana over.
LATER
After several hours of gel scooping, they were told to stop and sit on the rocky ground.
Jon stood with his hand pressed into the small of his back.
JON
Gentlemen, I fear if I sit on the ground, my back will not allow me to
stand up again.
A guard rushed over and pushed Jon to the ground. Jon yelped and curled up in pain.
Jayanti pushed the guard.
JAYANTI
You should be more considerate to the elderly, even though we are slaves!
Guard #1 recovered and turned to slug Jayanti.
Marc grabbed the guard's arm.
MARC
Forgive the young one. He is protective of his honored Grandfather.
Guard #1 tore his arm from Marc's grip.
GUARD #1
Help the old guy sit up.
Guard #1 stomped away.
Marc squatted beside his father.
MARC
Let me massage your back and sit you up, Father.
Jon gasped.
JON
That would be appreciated, Marcayo.
Jayanti seethed with frustration as he squatted beside Marc.
MARC
Easy, Jay, we don't want you to be beaten.
JAYANTI
They are disrespectful!
MARC
Yes, they are disrespectful because we participated in civil unrest and they chose to punish us by making us
slaves to them. We must keep a cool head about us until I get the message from Nik.
JAYANTI
How much longer?!
MARC
We must remain calm, Jay.
Jayanti took the bag of food he was offered.
Marc accepted two bags for himself and Jon. He set the bags beside him and massaged Jon's tight back muscles.
MARC
Do you think you can sit up now, Father?
JON
I think so. Thank you very much, Marcayo.
With Marc's help, Jon sat up.
Marc handed Jon a bag of food.
MARC
I will help you back to your feet when our food break is ended.
Jon nodded then took a bite of his sandwich.
Marc sat down and began to eat.
Candora whispered as she ate her own food.
CANDORA
Thank you for your help, dear.
MARC
I wasn't going to allow them to hurt Father further or beat up Jayanti.
CANDORA
Yes. Jayanti, you must remain calm.
JAYANTI
Yes, Aunt Candora.
MARC
Reserve your energy until it is time to fight.
JAYANTI
This is so frustrating, Uncle Marcayo!
MARC
Yes, it is frustrating. You must calm down and reserve the energy of your frustration until we get the signal that the time to fight has come.
ZAKOTI
Jayanti is much like you, Marcayo.
MARC
Zak, he is much like me. He is your first born and we tend to be very protective. It isn't a bad instinct if it is channeled properly.
ZAKOTI
I have seen many abusive situations in my life. It is hard to have to face another hardship.
MARC
It is but I know when the time comes to fight, you and Jayanti will be at my side as the warriors I know you both are.
ZAKOTI
You flatter me, Marcayo.
MARC
I state a fact, Zakoti.
ZAKOTI
You act like Harak. I will gladly follow your commands.
MARC
So be calm for now and I will call warning when it's time to fight.
ZAKOTI
We will await your command.
CANDORA
You are a good leader, my son.
A short time later, the guards called for the line to reform.
Marc stood up and held his hands out to Jon.
Jon took Marc's hands.
Marc pulled Jon's arms.
Jon used the leverage to climb back up to his feet.
Jon hugged Marc as much to stabilize himself and give his son appreciation for the help.
GUARD #1
Aw, ain't that cute now get in line!
The beleaguered Brocana resumed their grueling work.
INT. CREOREL'S OFFICE, NEW SAN FRANCISCO – DAY
Nikklo was feeling very uncomfortable now with the chin strap and the tight restraints around his arms. He knew he had to do something soon or he would be worn down and the emotions he had sensed from Marc before the telepathy blocker was alarming.
Across the room, Creorel opened a message and read it.
CREOREL
Damn it, do I have to everything around here?
He stood up and stopped beside Nikklo.
CREOREL
I will only be a few minutes so don't try to do anything again.
Creorel rushed from the room.
Nikklo squirmed against his restraints and thought if his biceps weren't so thick, he could slip out of the belt.
He willed himself to switch to his FEMALE BROCANA FORM.
NOTE: NIKKLO WILL BE KNOWN AS NIKOLE IN FEMALE FORM UNTIL FUTHER NOTED.
Immediately, the belt became looser but the unsupported breasts were going to be a problem.
Creorel rushed back in and stopped in astonishment.
CREOREL
What? Where is Nikklo?
Nikole shrugged her shoulders and made muffled sounds.
Creorel huffed in frustration and unbuckled the chin strap.
CREOREL
Now where's Nikklo and how did you get into this strap?
Nikole shifted into the large BLACK PANTHER FORM and ripped into Creorel's throat.
Creorel gurgled sickeningly then dropped to the floor in a gush of blood.
Abroc Nikole gagged and changed back to Female Brocana Nikole. She spat out Creorel's gore from her mouth and shuddered. As soon as she worked through her revulsion, she wriggled the belt upwards and bit her lip to stifle the groans she made while forcing the belt over her bruising breasts.
Finally, she reached her fingers to the controls and loosened the belt. She tipped up the belt to look at the controls. She noticed the controls to block her telepathy and turned those off. Next she looked for the shut off on the light containment and shut that down.
She channeled light through the belt until it smoked and sparked then threw the belt over Creorel's dead body. She shakily stood up, changed to TAUIAN FORM and phased out of the government building.
INT. EURYANASSA BRIDGE
Nikole landed on the Euryanassa and changed to SAILI FORM. She hugged her chest and sank to the floor.
NIKOLE
Ow, ow, ow!
Cherna rushed to Nikole's side.
CHERNA
Nikky?
NIKOLE
I can't change to male form! My breasts hurt! Please get Danu!
CHERNA
Sorry, but Danu's missing.
NIKOLE
Get any medical person!
CHERNA
What did you do?
NIKOLE
I had to squirm out of a belt that was tightly wrapped around my chest. Only my female form could slip out! I hurt!
Cherna pressed her hands over her mouth and snickered.
NIKOLE
I'd slug you if I wasn't in so much pain!
CHERNA
I'm sorry, Nikky. I couldn't hold it back!
Varanani rushed onto the bridge with Kahea.
VARANANI
Nikky, why are you in female form?
NIKOLE
Cause she hurts! Please help me!
Varanani placed her hand on Nikole's arm while Kahea waved a medical scanner in front of Nikklo.
KAHEA
Deep breast tissue bruising.
VARANANI
Let's get, uh, her to the hospital suite so we can heal the bruises.
Varanani helped Nikole to stand.
Cherna turned to the pilot's station.
CHERNA
Arcas, I'm going with them to medical. You take the bridge and call me if you need anything.
Arcas schooled his own features to restrain his own laughter.
ARCAS
Will do.
Varanani and Cherna supported Nikole as they walked to the medical suite.
INT. EURYANASSA MEDICAL SUITE CONINUOUS
Cherna, Varanani and Kehea guided FEMALE SAILI NIKOLE to the examination table.
Nikole gasped nearly in tears.
NikOLE
Have your laughs!
CHERNA
I'm sorry, sweetheart. You must be in terrible pain. I just never thought I'd see you beaten up in your female form.
KAHEA
I'm sorry, I have to ask this because it's protocol. Were you raped?
Nikole stopped and blinked her eyes.
NikOLE
I never thought about that. No, I wasn't raped. I ripped his throat out.
Cherna, Varanani and Kahea stopped to stare with their mouths gaped.
NikOLE
I had to escape so I changed to Abroc form temporarily and ripped his throat out.
CHERNA
Okay, creativity only you can pull off!
VARANANI
Please don't take this unkindly but we need to get Nikky healed quickly. I don't like what I'm receiving from Danu.
NIKOLE
Agreed, the sendings are very disturbing.
Kahea prepared the dermal regenerator.
CHERNA
So why did you decide you had to use your female form?
NIKOLE
My male form is bulky because of my muscles but the female form's muscles are differently placed.
KAHEA
He's, I mean, she's right there. Women do carry their muscles differently.
NIKOLE
Because their biceps are thinner, even when they are well toned, the belt would fit the female form differently and be looser where it would be tight on the male form. I used the difference to slip out of the belt but my breasts got in the way.
CHERNA
Owe.
KAHEA
I need her to lay down.
Kahea returned with the regenerator.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
Cherna and Varanani helped Nikole lay on the gurney.
Nikole gasped and hugged her chest.
NIKOLE
Ow, ow, ow!
KAHEA
Sorry but I need to get to the underside of your breasts to heal the bruising.
NIKOLE
I never thought I would ever have to be treated medically for female form injuries!
CHERNA
There's a first time for everything.
Kahea shined the dermal regenerator on Nikole's chest for several minutes then turned it off.
KAHEA
That should do it. You may still have some pain in your chest for several hours until your body catches up with the healing. Do you want some Catowsh?
NIKOLE
Not now. I have to go back to the planet immediately. The Brocana are suffering and I have to stop it.
Nikole sat up. A bright light surrounded her then flashed out.
NIKOLE
Wow, I didn't realize if I injured myself in one gender, it would cause problems with shifting gender. I'll have to remember that.
VARANANI
Are you stuck in female form?
NIKOLE
I am for now. I hope that soon I can change back to male before I have to get involved in any major fighting.
CHERNA
You're still a black belt in multiple forms of hand-to-hand combat, Nikky.
NIKOLE
That is true but the difference in weight distribution could throw off my balance.
CHERNA
Oh, that's right, it can. It's hard to remember that males and females have that much body differences.
VARANANI
Your gender difference could be used as an advantage, Nikky.
NIKOLE
Or a disadvantage. It can cause more of a variable in the responses of people I meet.
VARANANI
Yes, we females are treated very differently by males. They will try to dominate you through intimidation.
CHERNA
When they try that, kick them in the balls.
NIKOLE
Sorry, love, from someone who has spent most of a lifetime in the male form, I know for a fact that men tend to guard their genitals first. I'd go for a low attack or a high attack in that situation because it would catch them off guard.
Nikole gingerly climbed off the bed.
NIKOLE
There is another way some Brocana will know who I am.
CHERNA
What's that?
NIKOLE
My Shaman brand had molten gold on it so no matter what form I take, a Brocana who knows about the gold
tinting in the brand will see the difference and know it's me.
VARANANI
Which may be an advantage or a disadvantage.
NIKOLE
It would depend on the circumstances. Now I'm going to have to find new clothes since I'm covered in gore.
VARANANI
You could leave the gory clothes on and act as a distressed female? Some males get protective when they see a distressed woman.
NIKOLE
That would mean I would have to adjust my sash and I only learned the male way to wear it.
VARANANI
So how do female Brocana appear to wear their sashes?
NIKOLE
It looks like it's wrapped around the middle back with it crossed through the clevage.
VARANANI
Did you see if it was tied at the back or at the neck?
NIKOLE
I think it's the back.
VARANANI
Okay, take the sash off and hand it to me.
Nikole untied the sash from around her waist and handed it to Varanani.
Varanani put the sash around Nikole's neck then crossed it at her chest, tucked it under her breasts then tied it at the back. She guided Nikole to a mirror.
VARANANI
Does it look like this?
Nikole studied her image.
NIKOLE
Wow, I look disgusting.
VARANANI
Not now, Nikky. The sash?
NIKOLE
Yeah, it looks right but the sash looks too clean compared to the blood stains.
VARANANI
Explain that it was removed because your attacker wanted to have his way with you and you fought back. Once you were out of danger, you put the sash back on.
NIKOLE
Okay, that sounds plausible.
KAHEA
This is surreal that we're teaching the Tsikakayu about female manipulative strategies.
NIKOLE
I'm new to this!
VARANANI
Temper, brother, uh, sister.
Nikole sighed.
NIKOLE
I apologize for my sharp tone, Kahea.
KAHEA
I understand.
NIKOLE
Now I have to figure out how I'm going to get into those mines.
VARANANI
So ask Marc about his situation so you can come up with a plan to get
involved.
NIKOLE
I'll do that. Ugh, this dried blood is itching my skin! I wish I could take this off!
CHERNA
That can be a part of your persona.
NIKOLE
Thank you so much, love.
CHERNA
We need to rescue Danu and Toko.
NIKOLE
Yeah, we do so I need to get going. Thank you for the healing, Kehea.
Nikole lead Cherna and Varanani out of the medical suite.
INT. EURYANASSA BRIDGE
Nikole concentrated on Marc's mental essence and made a connection.
NOTE: NIKOLE continues in SAILI FEMALE FOR UNTIL NOTED.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Marc, status report, please.
MARC PSI V.O.
(breathy)
Give me a minute. Carrying a bucket full of molten gelstone.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
I'll wait.
After a few minutes, Marc resumed.
MARC PSI V.O.
Okay, I'm back in the line to wait my turn. I can report now. All of us are working in Gelstone mines. It's grueling work but better conditions than last time I was in a similar predicament. So are you free?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
I'm free of my captors but there's a bit of a problem.
MARC PSI V.O.
Why are you using your female voice?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Because I'm stuck in female form.
MARC PSI V.O.
Oh great. I was hoping you'd be ready to break us out of here so I can beat up a few of my old colleagues. What happened?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
The only way I could get out of that belt they put around me was to use my more petite female form but I kind of hurt myself while I was trying to slip it over my shoulders.
MARC PSI V.O.
Okay, now I'm confused.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
My shoulders weren't as wide or bulky but I had problems with another bulky body part.
MARC PSI V.O.
I don't get it. You're shoulders would be smaller but the rest would be - uh, you hurt your boobs getting out of the belt?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
I went to the Euryanassa to get healed but it will take a while for my body to catch up with the rapid healing. Now I can't return to male form until my body knows the bruising is healed.
Marc snickered.
MARC PSI V.O.
Oh that's hysterically funny!
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Have your fun now. This isn't over.
MARC PSI V.O.
I understand why you would feel irritated. How long do you think it will take for full recovery?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
I don't know. This is the first time I have suffered an injury to my female form. Vara is concerned for Danu and she wants me to go in as a battered female.
MARC PSI V.O.
Tell Vara that Danu is working like a trooper and has even offered some medical help. It's quite hot down here with gelstone seeping from the walls.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
It sounds like horrible conditions. I think Vara is right that I need to get down there quickly.
MARC PSI V.O.
Be very careful. There's a known serial killer in the office who loves to molest women then kill them.
MARC'S FLASHBACK P.O.V.
Marc thought an image of him flying a ship close to the ground with Jim at the other controls and Zakoti leaning between their seats.
Jim pointed to a dark monolith that loomed on the horizon.
JIM
Will you look at that rock? It looks like a finger punched through the floor of the desert!
ZAKOTI
That is Aldumu's Point. It is a landmark all Brocana know.
JIM
No wonder. You can't miss it.
Marc chuckled.
MARC
Yeah, it's remarkable enough to have a name of a god.
Zakoti pointed to the ground.
ZAKOTI
Sinvati.
JIM
I see them.
Marc followed Zakoti's finger and he too saw the tall animals tearing at tufts of grass near the cluster of boulders at the base of Aldumu's Point.
MARC
Going down. Prepare to get out fighting, guys.
Jim pointed to a place closer to the monolith.
JIM
Ho, wait, Marc, that rock.
ZAKOTI
Lashanti! He's got her tied over a rock! Who knows how long she has been exposed to the suns!
MARC
(annoyed)
I'm going in.
He rolled the flier around Aldumu's Point and swept in close over Ellerman and Etana's heads. He smirked when they dove to the ground. He dropped the flier to the sand, cut the engines and then leapt out the door. He immediately pulled out his laser gun and began to fire as he ran to the nearest rock to where Lashanti was tied. He didn't want to put her inside the firefight but he needed to free her.
Zakoti rushed past him and leapt on top of the rock.
Etana aimed her gun at Zakoti.
MARC
(shouted)
Zakoti! Get down!
Etana fired.
Zakoti screamed and fell from the rock with the previously injured shoulder blackened.
Marc glared at Etana.
Etana snorted.
ETANA
That was satisfying.
Zakoti sat up behind the rock, clutching his arm.
ZAKOTI
It burns, Marcayo! Oh, it burns!
MARC
I know, Zakoti. Hold on. That was cruel, even by human standards, Etana.
Ellerman chuckled.
ELLERMAN
What do you expect from a blue-skin?
Etana whirled around.
ETANA
What do you mean?
MARC
It means he's been using you, Etana. In the cave where he kept me, he said all, all blue-skins had to die.
ETANA
You love me!
ELLERMAN
Love a blue-skin? Really, Etana, you're stupider than I thought.
ETANA
But you gave up your human life to be Brocana!
Etana released a big sob and raised her pistol at Ellerman.
Ellerman rolled behind a boulder, jumped to his feet again and shot Etana.
Etana screamed and fell lifeless to the ground.
Marc felt anger consume him. He resumed firing.
MARC
Jim, cover me, I'm going to get Lashanti.
Jim nodded between shots.
Marc fired several more times before he slipped over to the rock where Lashanti had finally awakened. He reached the stake in the ground and untied her arms. He slipped around the rock and untied her legs before he stood up, grabbed her waist and slid her down to the ground.
BACK TO NIKOLE'S P.O.V.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Ouch, what a terrible memory!
MARC PSI V.O.
I didn't mean to broadcast that.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
But it told me a lot. Thanks for the warning.
MARC PSI V.O.
No, Nik! He's dangerous!
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
So am I. I just ripped out Creorel's throat with my Abroc teeth. I'm in a very bad mood and ready to spill more blood. See you soon.
NIKOLE
Okay, I got the report from Marc and they're being worked to exhaustion in gelstone mines so I need to devise my strategy to free them and get the damned Humans to back off.
VARANANI
I saw the images Marc sent and they were horrific. Do you think it's a good idea to face Ellerman right away?
NIKOLE
You have a point, Vara. Maybe I should avoid him until I know how to proceed.
CHERNA
Be careful, Nikky. It seems tempers down there are very short.
NIKOLE
Oh, I know they are and when someone finds Creorel with his throat ripped out, they're going to be angrier than ever. I know I have my work cut out for me. I have to go back now.
CHERNA
Remember to use your current form to its best advantage.
NIKOLE
Yeah, act the innocent victim until I see an opening I can take advantage of.
VARANANI
And don't give yourself away as a pretender until you have no choice.
Nikole rolled her eyes.
NIKOLE
I'm so glad I have a psychologist as a sister.
VARANANI
You're still a scamp.
NIKOLE
Yes, I am and I will go to Bamasha to be a scamp.
Cherna laughed.
CHERNA
It's cute when you say it in your male form but you're too cute saying that in female form!
Nikole grinned mischievously.
NIKOLE
I'm going to count on it!
CHERNA
Now you're creeping me out! Get to your mission!
NIKKLO
Yes, dear.
Cherna swept her arm out to smack Nikole.
Nikole ducked her arm.
CHERNA
Disappear already!
Nikole chuckled then changed to TAUIAN FEMALE FORM to phase to Bamasha.
EXT. KOBIHOK RIDGE MOUNTAINS, ALPHA CENTAURI 7 – DAY
Nikole appeared on a ridge above the mining camp and changed to BROCANA FEMALE FORM. She gasped and hugged her chest. She wished her body would realize the bruise had already been dispersed. She took a deep breath, dropped her arms then ran down the hill to the mining camp.
GUARD #2
Hey, stop! Who are you?
NIKOLE
(hesitantly)
My name is - NIKARIKA. Please help me! I was attacked!
Guard #2 looked down at her clothes in disgust.
GUARD #2
You're a mess.
NIKOLE
Yes, I fought for my life!
The guard took her arm and led her into the office buildings.
GUARD #2
Caleb, I found a blue-skin woman running down the hill near the mines.
Ellerman walked into the main room and looked at her.
ELLERMAN
What's your name, blue-skin?
NIKOLE
I am called Nikarika.
ELLERMAN
You're filthy.
NIKOLE
I fought for my life and escaped. I wish to have help.
Ellerman came up to her and looked at her closely.
ELLERMAN
Well, under the filth you're a pretty little thing. Come on. I'll let you clean up and give you new clothes to wear.
NIKOLE
I thank you.
ELLERMAN
I ain't gonna call you by that whole name.
NIKOLE
I can be called Nika?
ELLERMAN
Okay, Nika, let's get you cleaned up.
Nikole remembered Marc's memories of how Ellerman shot Etana in cold blood but controlled her revulsion and followed the serial killer into his suite.
He guided her to the bathroom and began to draw a bath.
ELLERMAN
How did you get so filthy?
NIKOLE
I killed jhumani who attacked me as I foraged for my clan.
ELLERMAN
By the looks of the stain, it was a bleed out. What did you use?
NIKOLE
A sharp stick through throat.
ELLERMAN
Effective. Get that stuff off so I can get it out of here. It stinks.
NIKOLE
My clothes smell stinky.
Nikole cringed at the idea of showing her body to a repulsive human but it was too soon to give away who she truly was. She reluctantly removed the stiff clothes and handed them to Ellerman.
Ellerman chuckled.
ELLERMAN
Oh, you're a perky little girl.
ELLERMAN PSI V.O.
I'd love to fuck that little girl but if she would kill a man with a sharp stick to the throat, I better look but not touch. Is that a shaman brand on her shoulder?
Nikole hid the scowl on his face by deliberately turning away to drop the dirty clothes.
ELLERMAN
Hey, uh, Nika, why you got a shaman brand on your shoulder?
NIKOLE
I am student shaman.
ELLERMAN
Oh, nice, you start your bath and I'll throw these away.
ELLERMAN PSI V.O.
Wonder how much information I can get from her about her training?
Nikole climbed into the bathtub and gladly scrubbed the blood off her skin. She would have almost enjoyed the bath if Ellerman wouldn't come back and stare at her. She really wanted to drop the sick man to the ground and teach him a lesson about respecting people but that wasn't possible right now.
Ellerman returned with his arms full.
ELLERMAN
I don't have any blue-skin clothes but I brought you some Human clothes I think you can wear.
He set them down beside the tub then stood to stare.
NikOLE
You always stare at woman bathing?
ELLERMAN
It's my bathtub.
NIKOLE
May I have towel to dry off?
Ellerman grabbed a towel from the linen closet and held it out to her.
Nikole stood up and took the towel to wrap it around her.
ELLERMAN
Do you know the parasite cure?
NIKOLE
I do.
ELLERMAN
What is it?
NIKOLE
Not for people who wear no shaman brand.
ELLERMAN
I didn't say anything about getting my skin burned. What is the parasite cure?
NIKOLE
You are not shaman.
Ellerman scowled then grabbed Nikole's arm.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
Ellerman pulled Nikole to him.
ELLERMAN
Listen well, blue-skin. I have your life in my hands. If I want to be told the parasite cure, I want you to tell me.
Nikole elbowed Ellerman's side.
Ellerman let go and grabbed his side.
Nikole scowled.
NIKOLE
(shouted)
Let me dress!
Nikole thought she needed to calm down and lead Ellerman more carefully and not give away that she wasn't what she appeared to be.
She pulled the shirt on first to cover her body. She reached for the pants then stopped when she sensed the odd essence of Rasmuler. She pulled back into the shadows as the door flew open.
Rasmuler charged in.
RASMULER
Creorel is dead!
ELLERMAN
Creorel was an idiot. How did he die?
RASMULER
His throat was ripped out by a creature with very sharp teeth! General Damirateyak is missing! The belt was found burned out on top of Creorel!
ELLERMAN
Great! You said Creorel could be trusted to keep that midget restrained!
RASMULER
Are the Brocana working in the mines?
ELLERMAN
Yeah, they arrived yesterday. I got them under heavy guard.
RASMULER
What is that girl doing here? I told you not to have relationships with indigenous girls!
Nikole put her most innocent look on her face as she emerged from the shadows.
ELLERMAN
She's a new arrival and she was filthy so I was allowing her to bathe.
RASMULER
(shouted)
Get out of here, girl!
Nikole rushed to get her sandals on and ran out of the room, relieved to be dismissed.
RASMULER
Stop getting involved with the Brocana women! All of them are nothing more than laborers!
Nikole wandered around until she found a guard.
NIKOLE
Ellerman says I join my people in the mines.
GUARD #2
Come on. I'll take you to the mines.
Nikole followed the guard into the cave, at the same time, suppressing claustrophobia.
They entered an elevator. It moved downward for several minutes then stopped.
Guard #2 took her to guard #3.
GUARD #2
We got a new worker. Get her into a work group.
GUARD #3
What's your name, girl?
NIKOLE
I am Nikarika. I can be called Nika.
GUARD #3
All right, come with me, Nika.
Nikole followed the guard.
GUARD #3
Those clothes really don't fit you.
NIKOLE
The clothes I came in were ruined. These clothes were found for me fast.
Guard #3 called ahead.
GUARD #3
It looks like it. Hey, we got another worker!
GUARD #1
Show her the pails and scoops so she can join the line.
Guard #1 handed her the pail and scoop.
GUARD #3
Line's over there.
Nikole took the equipment and walked to the end of the line.
Guard #3 nodded then walked toward the elevator.
Marc was a few people ahead. He glanced back at her with a quizzical look on his face.
Nikole ignored Marc and stayed in line.
After a few minutes, Marc turned around and adjusted his position in line as people moved forward.
Danu approached her with concern.
DANU
I'm a doctor. You look like you've had a rough time lately.
NIKOLE
I had to fight for my life as I foraged for my clan. I am better now.
DANU
What's your name?
NIKOLE
Nikarika. I am called Nika.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Not now, Danu!
DANU PSI V.O.
If that's the way you want it for now. I know your mental signature.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Don't tell anyone.
DANU PSI V.O.
Even Marc?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Even Marc. We are in serious danger.
NIKOLE
I am not hurt, Doc-tor.
DANU
Okay, just checking on you.
Danu walked back to where he had stood earlier.
LATER
As time passed, Nikole felt restless and wondered when it would be her time to scoop the gelstone just so she could have something to do.
Finally, Marc did his turn and dropped off his load. As he walked back to the line, he stopped beside her.
MARC
Are you who I think you are?
NIKOLE
I am Nikarika.
MARC
Of what clan?
Nikole paused.
NIKOLE
I am Renegade.
MARC
That's what I thought.
NIKOLE
You go to the end of the line or they hurt you.
MARC
Okay, Neek-a, we'll talk later when they let us rest for lunch.
Marc went to the end of the line.
Nikole filled her bucket 2 times before the guards called for everyone to sit down for midday meal.
It was no surprise that all of the Daniels family, Danu and Toko sat down around Nikole.
They accepted their bowl of food that was handed out and settled in to eat.
MARC
Now you want to talk?
NIKOLE
I eliminated Creorel and that belt is fried.
CANDORA
Please show your brand.
Nikole raised her sleeve up to show the brand.
CANDORA
You have proven who you are. Thank you.
Jon massaged his knee and back.
JON
Why are you female?
NIKOLE
I hurt myself and have to wait.
DANU
Female specific?
NIKOLE
Yes.
DANU
Interesting. You can't change gender when a gender specific part is injured.
NIKOLE
Yes.
Toko snickered in his hand.
Nikole huffed.
NIKOLE
Stick your scoop up your ass!
NIKARO
Wow, is this what you have to deal with on a regular basis?
MARC
No, this is definitely unique.
DANU
Very much so! Although the threat was definitely like something I know he'd say.
CANDORA
The brand is a greenish yellow. Only Tsikakayu has that color brand.
JON
Let's be quiet with that word. We don't want the guards to overhear it.
NYALA
Creorel is dead?
NIKOLE
Very dead. There's still Ellerman and Rasmuler we need to worry about.
Marc's jaw dropped.
MARC
Did you say Ellerman and Rasmuler?!
NIKOLE
I did and they have very fond memories of wanting to disembowel you!
Marc dipped his head between his knees.
MARC
Great, my worst nightmare come true. Those are two very cruel Humans I sent to jail in my early days with the ADF.
NIKOLE
Ellerman is controlling this mine and Rasmuler wanders the halls of the government building unquestioned.
MARC
Could you bring any worse news?
NIKOLE
There seems to be some influences from a higher power happening here.
MARC
Not just from crystal people?
NIKOLE
More than that.
MARC
This is sounding crappier by the minute!
JON
What do you mean?
NIKOLE
I've seen Ares arguing with Aldumu about controlling this planet.
MARC
The ancient Greek god arguing with the star known as Alpha Centauri?
NIKOLE
Aldumu is a sentient star like me and I'm guessing so is Balda. Ares, the Greek god of brutal warfare is interfering with the people here and Aldumu isn't happy about it.
MARC
(groaned)
Wonderful! Why would they argue about my planet?
GUARD #1
Get back to work!
Toko stood up.
TOKO
What ever strategy you think up to fight this, I'm by your side.
MARC
You know I'll await your commands.
JON
We're in this together.
They placed their bowls in a tub then lined up again with their scoops and pails.
Danu deliberately stood with Nikklo in the line.
DANU
What injury caused you to be stuck in female form?
NIKOLE
Breast tissue bruising. Kahea did a spot heal but my body is still adjusting to the healing.
DANU
Your body should be stabilized now.
NIKOLE
I know that but right now I should not disclose that I'm here. Rasmuler was very upset that Creorel is dead.
It's not time yet for us to make our move.
DANU
What did you do to Creorel?
NIKOLE
I ripped his throat out with my Abroc form.
Danu blanched.
DANU
Ew.
NIKOLE
It was very unpleasant but I had to escape. Right now, they don't know where Nikklo went and I want to keep it that way. I'm just Nikarika.
DANU
Okay, that makes sense.
GUARD #1
Hey, lovebirds, pay attention!
Danu jumped.
Nikole placed a reassuring hand on Danu's back.
They walked forward.
NIKOLE
We apologize.
Danu snickered.
DANU
They think we're a couple?
Nikole fluttered her eyelashes.
NIKOLE
Aren't we?
DANU
I'm going to tell your sister on you!
NIKOLE
I not scared! Move on, jhumani.
DANU
I'm so going to get you back for this!
NIKOLE
I will wait with excitement!
Danu chuckled and turned back to pay attention to the line.
GUARD #1
Why do you Daniels think blue-skins are so attractive?
DANU
I'm n -
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Don't tell them you're not a Daniels. Just go with it.
DANU
I'm being nice to people I'm working with.
GUARD #1
Just pay attention.
DANU
I will remember to pay attention to the line.
MARC
At least they're not whipping us like the last time I was forced to work in a mine.
ZAKOTI
Not much improvement. My legs ache and my arms ache.
MARC
I didn't mean it was great improvement, just better.
Nikole whirled toward the elevator.
DANU
What, Nika?
NIKOLE
Crap.
Nikole ran into the shadows of a secondary tunnel.
Danu ran after her.
DANU
What's wrong?
The elevator door swept open.
Ellerman and Rasmuler rushed to the guards.
RASMULER
Where is that girl?
GUARD #1
What girl? We have dozens of them!
RASMULER
The girl who came earlier today. Where is she?
GUARD #1
Hey, where's that new girl?
Many Brocana shrugged their shoulders.
Marc gave his family a warning look.
Toko carefully backed into the shadows where Nikklo and Danu hunched down.
TOKO
They're searching for you, aren't they?
Nikole nodded.
GUARD #3
Any of you Daniels seen that new girl?
MARC
I haven't seen her since lunch.
JON
I recall the other guard told her to stop flirting with the Astrisi doctor.
NIKARO
(grinning)
Perhaps they slipped away for a deeper exam?
RASMULER
(shout)
Find her!
The guards dispersed to search.
CANDORA
(whispered)
Nikaro, that last remark was inappropriate!
NIKARO
Hey, that covered why the Astrisi suddenly disappeared!
MARC
It worked, Nikaro.
TASHIKA
Aren't you worried you'll lose track of them?
Marc tapped his temple.
MARC
I'm rarely out of contact.
Guard #1 rushed back into the cavern.
GUARD #1
Every Brocana, sit down!
Marc sat on the ground.
Marc's siblings looked at Jon who nodded and lowered himself to the floor. The rest of the family followed.
MARC PSI V.O.
Hey, Nik, are you still in the cavern?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
I'm in stealth covering myself, Danu and Toko in a small alcove.
MARC PSI V.O.
I guess Rasmuler finally put two and two together and guessed you're hiding in plain sight?
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
That's the thoughts he's having. I think I may relocate Danu and Toko back to my ship then return outside.
TOKO PSI V.O.
You're not getting rid of me that easily.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Okay, I'll take Danu back then return. Then we'll think of the next thing to do.
DANU PSI V.O.
I'm not going either. Let's give these bubukas some serious pain!
Nikole looked at Danu in surprise.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
What?!
TOKO PSI V.O.
Hey, the doc's got the right idea. Let's give these bubukas a well deserved slice of pain. Huh, there might be a song there.
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
Later, Toko.
TOKO PSI V.O.
It's been a while since I've been in a dangerous situation!
NIKOLE PSI V.O.
I'm phasing us to the surface.
Nikole touched Danu and Toko then changed to TAUIAN FORM.
Nikole phased them to the surface right outside the mine. She saw a cargo ship outside the office then phased Danu and Toko to the office door. She phased to the cargo ship and relocated it in front of the mine entrance so that the entrance was blocked. She returned to Danu and Toko then changed into MALE BROCANA FORM.
NOTE: NIKOLE WILL NOW BE CALLED NIKKLO AND IN MALE FORM UNLESS NOTED.
NIKKLO PSI V.O.
Wow, the clothes don't go well with this form.
Danu snickered into his hand.
Toko laughed.
TOKO
Not really.
Nikklo phased them to Ellerman's room and chose masculine clothes to wear. He quickly changed.
NIKKLO
Not my style but it's better. We need to get back to the mine entrance.
Nikklo phased them back to their previous position.
TOKO
What's your plan?
NIKKLO
You'll know soon enough.
NIKKLO PSI V.O.
(wide reception)
Now, Ellerman, Rasmuler, isn't it a bad turn that you're stuck in a mine with thousands of mistreated Brocana?
(directly to Marc)
Marc, move out. Start a riot to the surface.
Rasmuler's voice echoed from the cave.
RASMULER
Have mercy on us and just arrest us!
NIKKLO
Why should I? You somehow convinced most of the police leadership to carry out your commands to target the Brocana for genocide yet cover it up as random violence! Now it's payback time and I'm not going to stop them.
ELLERMAN
(yelled)
Why didn't you check that damned Tauian's file to see that he's a damned shape changer who can even be a girl?
RASMULER
(yelled)
You let that shape changer bathe in your suite! Don't yell at me for not realizing it until now!
Nikklo laughed heartily.
NIKKLO
You gave me great opportunities to learn to use a form I rarely use. It was enlightening.
ELLERMAN
Fuck you!
NIKKLO
Not on your life, psychopath!
Nikklo looked into the sky in time to see police cruisers sweeping in.
NIKKLO
Oh well, play time is over. Now shit is getting real. Time to get to the real work. Ready, Toko?
TOKO
I've been itching to beat the shit out of someone since my shuttle was grounded!
NIKKLO
Now is your opportunity. Danu, get ready to fight with every skill you have.
DANU
Which isn't much.
NIKKLO
I saw Vara take down a career guard by stomping on his foot. You know enough martial arts to cause some damage.
DANU
Well, I did refuse to be phased to safety. I'm ready to fight, Tsikakayu.
NIKKLO
Good.
Just as the ISP and a ground Police landed, Nikklo turned toward a sudden mental presence beside him.
Ares grabbed Nikklo's arm.
ARES
I told you to butt out!
NIKKLO
The Brocana are survivors from Tauia and I have some of their lineage. I'm helping to protect my relatives!
Danu rushed to squeeze the arm Ares was using to restrain Nikklo.
NIKKLO
Back off, Danu. He's too dangerous for you. Stay with Toko.
Hesshia appeared beside Ares.
HESSHIA
This is not the place to confront Nikklo, Ares.
ARES
So you finally decided to come back?
HESSHIA
You sickened me and left me behind, asshole. Nikklo's medical staff healed me and allowed me to rest. Nikklo was kind to me even though I kidnapped him after he released me from the gelstone which is more than I can say for you.
ARES
Help him if you want to but this fight isn't his.
NIKKLO
It is my fight because I am of Prisean lineage and so are the Brocana!
Ares waved his hand.
INT. ARES CENTAURIAN CITADEL
They were transported back to the domed building where they fought before.
HESSHIA
Oh, not this again!
Ares plunged a knife through Nikklo's core.
Nikklo gasped and felt his core lose connection with his crystal body. He opened his core and fed his pulsar energy through the knife into Ares hand.
The dark energy enveloped Ares.
Ares tried to open his hand. He opened his mouth to scream but only a column of dark light emerged and spread throughout the room.
The dome flickered then began to disappear.
Hesshia shoved Ares away from the dagger. He stumbled away then exploded into a dark cloud.
HESSHIA
Nikklo, please stop destroying reality!
Nikklo changed to TAUIAN FORM and absorbed the knife into his body then launched into the void.
MONTAGE OF MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
He flew through foggy ether and vaguely saw familiar landmarks from his life.
He passed his school from Bristol Camp.
He flew on until he came to the Kumani. He smiled but flew on.
He flew over Gasbaja and saw the lake where he and Cherna made love at their mating festival but the ground around it was lost in a gray fog.
He flew over the pyramid city on Belvas but again, the ground was obscured by thick gray fog.
He shook his head. He felt like his head was cloudy like how he had felt when Verano had tried to wipe his mind the first time he had visited Belvas. He had to get home.
Just like before here on Belvas, where was home? He had to find home. What was home?
He landed on a pinnacle of a pyramid and turned circles.
He thought about a large volcano surrounded by methane clouds. He centered on that thought and launched toward that thought.
INT. TAREK'S CAVERN, SAILIA
He landed in a cavern with a lava lake. He saw the lake and the forge but the walls were obscured by swirling gray fog.
Tarek rushed up to him.
TAREK
Nikky?
NIKKLO
(lethargic)
I don't know how to go home.
TAREK
What happened?
NIKKLO
Fighting on Bamasha. The Brocana are surviving Prisean. They're our relatives.
TAREK
Okay, what happened to you?
NIKKLO
Ares plunged a knife into my core containment. When I began to feel like I was disconnecting from my body, I fed my pulsar energy through the knife and disintegrated him. I destroyed him but I think I destabilized reality too. I fear I'm keeping it together with my will, alone.
Tarek pulled out a sensor and checked his core.
TAREK
I see you used the knife to maintain your core's connection with your body. I don't want to mess with that right now because we have to
stabilize reality first.
NIKKLO
I guess that's why I came to you.
TAREK
Okay, let's get things stabilized and stop the fighting. Then I can heal your core connection.
Tarek guided Nikklo toward his living caves.
EXT. KOBIHOK RIDGE MINES – DAY
SCENE IS CONTINUOUS FROM NIKKLO'S DISAPPEARANCE WITH ARES.
Toko grabbed Danu and lead him around hiding places until they met up with Marc again.
MARC
What the hell just happened?
TOKO
Nik disappeared!
DANU
Some guy Nikky said was too powerful for us to fight snatched him away from us!
As the ISP and ground Police ships touched ground, the air shimmered and the rock seemed to bend and reshape.
MARC
What the hell?
Danu closed his eyes for a few seconds.
DANU
(panicked)
Oh no, Nikky opened his core and destabilized reality!
TOKO
What do we do?
MARC
We can't fight that. We have to handle the ISP and grounders here and hope Nik can resolve his problems.
Feedback sounded from an ISP cruiser. Commander Leighson's voice rang out.
STEVE
Marc Daniels, where is Great Defender Nikklo?
MARC
He phased away from Alpha Centauri Seven, Commander.
STEVE
Did he make everything go weird?
MARC
I think so but I'm not in communication with him at this time to get any details. The ground seems to be destabilizing. Can we come out of the mines?
STEVE
Will you Brocana surrender?
MARC
If we fight, the destabilized ground could make the fighting worse. What do you think, Dad?
Jon turned to the Brocana.
JON
Are you willing to stop the fight?
The Brocana looked around nervously at the shifting terrain.
DANIKO
We will not fight if you do not send us back under ground.
Commander Leighson was silent for a few seconds.
STEVE
We agree to not send you underground. Please come out of the tunnels and sit on the flat ground between our ships.
Marc lead everyone out between the ships and encouraged them to sit on the dirt ground.
Ellerman walked out of the mines alone with his arms raised above his head.
ELLERMAN
Get me the hell out of here! Arrest me, please! This shifting ground is going to make me puke! Take me back to prison!
Steve and Jim walked down the ramp and cuffed Ellerman then obbly returned to their ship.
FADE OUT.
THE END