Lyssa Thorne's
Science Fiction Novels
Double Dragon Ebooks
“GELSTONE”
EPISODE 5 – ARREST
BY: LYSSA THORNE
FADE IN:
INT. KOBIHOK RIDGE – DAY
Marc found a dirt road and sent Hikiya down the hill. He was beginning to feel lulled by the steady trot when he jerked his head up to look into the sky. He heard the whine of a motor. His eyes locked onto a dark speck that loomed larger.
MARC
Incoming!
Marc sent Hikiya into a run again.
Jim twisted around to resume the rock barrage as Marc guided Hikiya off the road through the maze of rock outcroppings to avoid the laser volleys that burned patches of the ground as he guided the sinvati back and forth.
They rushed toward a small drop-off.
MARC
Grab on again, Jim!
Jim grabbed his waist just before they sailed through the air again and landed in a patch of shifting sand.
Hikiya screamed and her legs flew out from under her.
Marc frantically held onto the reigns to keep Jim and him from being launched into the air.
Marc pulled his left leg up to his chest right before Hikiya hit the ground hard. He rolled across the ground and slammed into a boulder with his back. He gasped when his back reminded him about the whipping. He rolled onto his knees and shook his head to stop the world from spinning.
A bit further down the incline, Jim was stiffly climbing back to his feet.
Hikiya snorted as she struggled to climb back to her feet.
Marc snapped his head up when he heard the whine of the engine come nearer.
Telleran was sneering down at him as he landed the flier.
TELLERAN
Well now, you cops are sure persistent. Gone native since your uniforms torn?
MARC
I am native.
TELLERAN
Yeah, that's why your face is blue! So, Brocana, let's see how native you are?
Telleran pulled a Brocana knife out of his clothes.
Marc pulled out the knife Brinika gave him with the clothes and gripped it blade down.
He pulled his scarf from around his head and clutched it in his other hand.
TELLERAN
At least your style is Brocana.
Telleran chuckled and held the blade upright.
Marc warily watched Telleran for his first move.
Telleran poked at Marc and chuckled as he turned circles around him.
Marc began to feel irritation with Telleran's teasing. He snapped his head scarf and slashed with his right. He felt the tearing of tight burned skin as his hand flexed.
TELLERAN
What's the matter, cop? The last few weeks catching up with you? Been beaten, whipped, burned? Give me a chance, I'll add a gaping hole to you too!
Marc ground his teeth.
Telleran lunged at him.
Marc snapped his scarf at the blade.
Telleran pulled back before he could be ensnared.
Marc lunged at Telleran.
Telleran whirled to avoid the blade.
Marc snapped the scarf at Telleran to protect his left side and whirled around to face his attacker again.
A whistling sound zipped past Marc's ear.
Marc lunged back just as a rock hit Telleran's knife arm.
Telleran snarled at Jim.
Jim had the slingshot cocked with another rock.
Telleran pulled back toward his flier.
TELLERAN
Your Gunny's not being fair.
JIM
I wouldn't be a Gunny if I let you hurt my pilot.
Telleran hurled his knife at Jim.
Marc ran to intercept the knife as Jim ducked.
Telleran jumped on his flier, surged it off the ground and swept away.
The knife plunged into the rock behind Jim.
Marc pulled the knife from the rock and handed it to Jim.
MARC
Here, you can have this.
JIM
Considering its former owner, I'd decline it if I had the choice.
MARC
I know, but it's an opportunity I wouldn't pass up.
Jim reluctantly took the weapon.
Marc went back to Hikiya and stroked her muzzle with his uninjured hand. He picked up her hooves to check on her hocks.
MARC
Good. She's uninjured. Let's get going again.
Marc helped Jim back up on Hikiya's back, then Marc swung up in front of him.
For a while, Hikiya readily accepted his lead and they were making good time down the mountain until Hikiya began to act nervous again.
Marc was struggling to keep her moving forward.
JIM
Police fliers! Hand me your badge! I can't get to mine.
MARC
That’s what’s bothering her. Noisy machines always bother sinvati.
Marc reached into the folds of his clothing, brought it out and handed it over his shoulder to Jim.
Jim used the silver badge to send flashes of light to the flier in the lead.
Marc coaxed the sinvati to the landed ships and they were met by the sergeant and his partner.
Marc put Jim on the ground and dismounted.
Jim walked over to the two policemen and showed them Marc’s badge.
SERGEANT
I didn’t know there was a Brocana policeman.
MARC
I’m half Brocana.
Marc pulled back his scarf to show the man his blond hair that would prove his mixed heritage since full Brocana have dark hair.
POLICEMAN
Interesting.
SERGEANT
Names and ranks, gentlemen?
JIM
Jr. Lt. Marcayo Daniels and TO James Meyers.
MARC
We don't have much time to get them!
SERGEANT
Is Cobihok Ridge a smuggling operation, lieutenant?
MARC
Yes, but I've been told there are several others.
SERGEANT
Do you know any more about them?
MARC
Their boss is Dorain Rasmuler. He employs a large force of Ganuvians and mercenaries. He's enslaving Brocana to mine Gelstones for the black market.
SERGEANT
We've been looking for leads on this smuggling case for months! An ISP ship's on the way to pick you two up.
Three ISP ships landed beside the landed police ships.
Four men and two women ran up to meet them.
The leader was a tall man with brown hair.
LEIGHSON
I’m Commander Steve Leighson and my partner's TO Diana Carson of the ISPAC, Jayma Division. Are you Jr. Lt. Daniels and TO Meyers?
JIM
I'm Meyers and he's Daniels.
Leighson looked over Marc's native attire.
LEIGHSON
What happened to your uniform, Lieutenant?
JIM
It was literally sliced off of him and he was whipped, Commander.
LEIGHSON
Let's see.
Marc reluctantly untied the rope which fell to the ground, then he turned around and pulled up his shirt.
Marc craned his neck to look at the commander and tech officer.
Leighson looked a little sick.
Carson glanced at it, then looked away.
LEIGHSON
Get dressed again. And get that sinvati into my ship. We move out as soon as it's stowed.
When Marc had his shirt tied with the rope again, he held his right hand at his side to carry Hikiya's reins in his left hand.
Leighson stopped him.
LEIGHSON
Lieutenant, you don't work well with your left hand. You're a pilot and that requires good hand coordination which leads me to believe you want to hide something about your right hand. Let me see it.
Marc slowly presented his burnt hand to the commander.
LEIGHSON
How did you get this?
MARC
In a firefight, sir. My hand was shot.
LEIGHSON
Meyers, are you hurt, too?
JIM
My left shoulder was shot in the same firefight.
LEIGHSON
Must have been one hell of a fight, gentlemen.
MARC
Four to two but I managed to stun one of them.
LEIGHSON
Heavy odds.
JIM
Yeah, especially when one is crazy enough to shoot through the gelstone crates with his laser at full power We were in their cargo hold in deep space with no where to run so we surrendered.
Marc led HIkiya to the rear of the ISP ship and tried to lead Hikiya into the ship.
She balked.
He tied the reins to a bush and picked some weeds from the ground, untied her and dangled the weeds in front of her snout.
She followed Marc as he inched up the ramp into the hold.
He flattened his hand to let her eat the weeds, then he stroked her muzzle. He slipped out and closed the hold.
He walked back to the group at the ramp of the space cruiser.
LEIGHSON
How did you get there, Tech. Officer?
JIM
Story's too long right now.
MARC
Rasmuler's closing shop at Cobihok Ridge as we speak. We need to go!
LEIGHSON
I heard that Brocana had a lot of endurance, but I’ve never witnessed it myself! How are you still standing?
CARSON
They're stubborn.
Jim grabbed Marc's arm and helped get him inside.
Marc sat in a passenger seat and strapped in.
JIM
Can you make it? I don't know if we can wait for an evac ship to take you in.
MARC
I'll make it.
Leighson and Carson sat in their chairs and they took to the air again.
On the flight toward the warehouse, Marc leaned forward, pulling his ruined back away from the upholstery and closed his eyes.
JIM
Relax, Marc.
MARC
Relax? I'm not relaxing until Rasmuler's in custody!
JIM
Come on, man, you must be feeling semiconscious by now after all you've been through. I'll bet your stomach muscles ache, your back is screaming and I noticed when you were changing at Jabayu's tent, your right knee was a bit swollen.
MARC
I'm not going to relax, Jim. Not until Rasmuler's brought down.
JIM
Okay, partner.
LEIGHSON
Fliers approaching. Alpha-juliet 8 and 12, keep them busy. Five, move in with me, over.
ISP (V.O.)
Roger.
SERGEANT (V.O.)
Tango 6 and 8, follow Alpha-juliet 8 and 12. Three, follow me in with Alpha-juliet 1 and 5.
POLICE (V.O.)
Roger.
Leighson slipped the ship through the opening his and the planetary units made for him and the group he was leading.
Soon, they landed outside the warehouse.
Leighson stood up and faced Marc and Jim.
LEIGHSON
Is your wound bad, Meyers?
JIM
No, it's a small shoulder wound, but it's been treated and is workable.
LEIGHSON
Do you want to take part in this bust?
JIM
Without a doubt!
MARC
I'm going too.
LEIGHSON
Anyone else would've been floored by now, Lieutenant. You’ve done your part. Why don’t you monitor the outside?
MARC
I’m not sitting out on this one! I want to help you take Rasmuler down.
LEIGHSON
All right, put your badge on and I’ll get you both firearms.
Jim returned Marc’s badge.
Marc attached it to his tunic.
Leighson returned with two laser pistols and a pistol belt.
Marc put the pistol belt on and holstered the pistol.
Marc and Jim put spare headsets on and plugged it into the radio set on the belt, then nodded to Leighson they were ready.
LEIGHSON
Okay, let's move out to join Moranus, Taber and the ground police.
They left the cruiser.
As soon as they touched the ground, the warehouse doors rose and men rushed out of the warehouse with guns flashing.
Marc ducked behind the landing pads with Jim beside him.
They returned fire.
For several minutes, they exchanged intense fire.
Marc was getting tired of hiding behind the landing struts. He holstered his laser pistol and pulled out his slingshot.
LEIGHSON
Uh, lieutenant, don't you think a Brocana slingshot is a bit low tech for this fight?
Marc knocked the slingshot and targeted for just beyond the corner of the warehouse wall, toward the building that housed him and the other Brocana and let it fly.
It cracked against an outcropping of boulders.
Some of their attackers rushed around towards the mines, leaving less pinning them.
Leighson gaped at him in disbelief.
LEIGHSON
A diversion! Creative thinking, Lieutenant!
Marc pulled his laser out again and resumed firing.
Soon after, they ran across to the warehouse.
Leighson brought out his magnakee and unlocked the warehouse door.
Marc and Jim went in first to clear the way, but no one was meeting them inside.
JIM
All clear.
Everyone filed in behind them and spread out with weapons ready. The planetary forces were covering the rear.
Marc and Jim were back where they'd been earlier in the day.
Marc and Jim were huddled inside the warehouse together while Leighson and the other policemen ducked in and out of each room to make sure they were empty.
JIM
Partner, while I was working here, I figured out where Rasmuler stayed.
MARC
Lead on, buddy.
When Leighson was sure all the rooms were empty, everyone finally slipped around the first corner. They were met with laser fire.
They dove into doorways and returned fire.
Marc shot several times before he dropped one attacker just as Jim took down another.
One remaining attacker held out a minute longer before Marc dropped him.
They rushed down the hall until they came to a wide door.
JIM
That’s the door that leads to the freighter hanger. The next door's the control room. The door after that's where Rasmuler stays, but we have to be careful because the freighter pilots have rooms near
Rasmuler.
LEIGHSON
Okay, we'll take down the warehouse and you two recon Rasmuler's apartments.
MARC
Roger, Commander.
Leighson and the rest went into the hanger and fired to take down the people working at Telleran's frieghter.
Marc and Jim slipped down the hall. As they came to each room, they ducked inside to make sure they were empty. Several times, Marc and Jim got into the firefight with someone lurking inside a room. Slowly, they made their way to Rasmuler's apartment.
JIM
Ready, partner?
MARC
Ready.
They sprang through the door and heard a yelp.
Rasmuler had jumped from an overstuffed chair and was pressed against the wall.
At his feet was a scantily clad Brocana woman.
Unfortunately, Telleran stepped between Rasmuler and them, grinning wickedly with a laser pistol in his hands.
TELLERAN
You want Rasmuler? You got to get through me.
MARC
Fine by me!
He shot at Telleran.
Telleran squatted down behind the chair and fired back.
Rasmuler pulled a knife and held it to the Brocana woman's neck.
RASMULER
Don't shoot me, or you'll have to shoot her first!
He carefully backed through another door.
Marc clenched his jaw and almost rushed to follow, but remembered Telleran was still in the way. He returned his attention to Telleran who continued to fire behind the armchair.
JIM
Don't worry, we'll get that slimball.
TELLERAN
You cops are persistant, I'll give you that. Stubborn, too. Hey, Brocana, I thought you would've collapsed by now.
MARC
Not until you're laying at my feet, smuggler!
Jim pulled out his slingshot and shot a rock toward the door Rasmuler left through.
Telleran glanced that way.
TELLERAN
So you thought you could break my concentration with a Brocana trick? Good try.
Marc fired right after Jim let the rock fly and grazed Telleran's shoulder.
Telleran cursed.
Marc slipped over against a dresser and resumed firing.
Telleran continued to shoot between the two separate targets now, but he wasn't as sure.
MARC
Give yourself up, Telleran.
TELLERAN
Never, cop!
Jim slipped around on the left to another piece of furniture and fired.
Telleran tried to leap out of the way, but his foot slipped. He sprawled across the floor, but still raised his laser to shoot back at Jim.
Marc took the opportunity and shot Telleran through the shoulder blade.
Telleran stiffened then fell slack.
MARC
Sure the T.O.'s the better shot, but don't turn your back on the pilot!
Marc rejoined Jim and they huddled on either side of the door Rasmuler retreated through.
Jim tripped the door sensor.
As the door swept open, Marc and Jim rushed through with their pistols ready, but it was an empty short narrow corridor. They rushed down to a door in the center and discovered it was an empty bathroom. They went on to the door at the end.
They heard a woman's voice.
BROCANA WOMAN
Is over Rasmuler. They hunt you like Senufo you are.
RASMULER
Shut up or I'll kill you right now!
BROCANA WOMAN
You enter my body and shame my man I promised to. I rather see the suns than live with shame you did to me.
RASMULER
Why did I have to choose such a bitch to be my companion?
Marc stifled a snort.
Jim raised his pistol and jerked his head at the door.
Marc raised his own weapon and nodded.
Jim tripped the sensor again and they rushed through.
Rasmuler cried out and grabbed the woman again, pressing the knife to her throat.
RASMULER
Back off! I'll kill her!
MARC
Let the woman go, Rasmuler. It's over.
RASMULER
No! I'll kill her!
MARC
Right and loose your meat-shield? She wants to go to the suns anyway.
JIM
What, Marc?
MARC
Death would be a blessing to her. You defiled her.
Rasmuler's eyes widened.
RASMULER
You're crazy!
MARC
You never understood the people you enslaved, Rasmuler. I could shoot her right now and she'd thank me. No meat-shield. Give up.
JIM
Marc, you can't threaten an innocent life like that!
RASMULER
Yeah!
MARC
The woman means nothing, Rasmuler. I said surrender!
Rasmuler rushed at Marc with his knife outstretched.
END ACT 1.
ACT 2
Marc holstered his laser and whipped out his knife and parried Rasmuler's down thrust from above his head.
Jim rushed to the woman's side to guard her and then aimed his laser at Rasmuler.
Marc was blocking his shot.
Marc threw Rasmuler off him.
Rasmuler crouched low with the dagger in front of him. His face was contorted in anger.
RASMULER
You're just a bunch of savages!
He thrust at Marc.
Marc swept a low block to the left and slashed across Rasmuler's middriff.
Rasmuler leapt back to avoid it.
Jim tried to target Rasmuler again, but he and Marc were dancing around each other in such close quarters, Jim was afraid he'd shoot his own partner.
BROCANA WOMAN
Shoot me. The jhumani-get is right. I have no life to return to.
JIM
No, I'm protecting you.
BROCANA WOMAN
You not like jhumani-get. What you protecting, jhumani? A body dirty by another man's touch?
JIM
You have something to live for!
BROCANA WOMAN
What? What I have something to live for? Live without clan? Wander in desert alone, I die.
JIM
You can go to the colony. They'll take you in.
BROCANA WOMAN
Live with jhumani worse than death.
JIM
Whatever, I'm not going to kill you. After this is done, you can go out into the desert and kill yourself, but I'm not going to do it!
She shook her head, but fell silent.
Jim turned his attention to Marc's fight again.
Marc was feeling a little winded as he continued to dance around Rasmuler.
RASMULER
What's wrong, boy? Your body's beginning to fail you? Too much torture over too many days?
MARC
Shut up, Rasmuler.
RASMULER
Even a Brocana can only stand so much. Wait, but you're not pure Brocana, you're also human!
MARC
I said shut up, Rasmuler!
Marc slashed right, then left, then an underhand cross.
As Rasmuler undulated to avoid Marc's slashes, sweat broke out on his brow.
Rasmuler stabbed at Marc's throat.
Marc faded back, but at the same time, he swept his left hand in and grabbed Rasmuler's wrist. He drove Rasmuler backwards into the wall and pinned his arm above his head. He squeezed the tendons in Rasmuler's hand until his fingers loosened and the knife fell to the floor.
MARC
You're under arrest, Rasmuler.
Rasmuler was stunned when Marc twirled him around, put his hands behind his back and affixed the handcuffs around his wrists.
Marc leaned against the wall and took a few deep breaths to steady himself. Now that the rush of battle was over, fatigue was threatening to floor him, but he wasn't going to do that in front of everyone, especially his own partner.
Jim stepped in and patted Marc on the shoulder.
JIM
Good job, partner. Sit down and rest now.
Jim took Rasmuler and guided him away.
The Brocana woman moved up to Marc.
BROCANA WOMAN
Please kill me, brother. You know I have nothing to live for.
Marc staggered over to the bed and sat down.
MARC
Sorry, I'm not going to do that. I'm too tired. Besides, now you can choose how you want to handle your own future. I don't want your blood on my hands.
She spat on him.
BROCANA WOMAN
You just like rest of jhumani.
MARC
I know what you face, but I'm not going to give you a coward's death. You choose your own suicide.
The woman went into the corner and pouted.
Marc waited until Jim returned from handing Rasmuler over and helped him to an evac shuttle.
INT. NEW SAN FRANCISCO HOSPITAL – DAY
A day later at the hospital, Marc was brought out of the healing tent, a device that stimulates rapid cell rejuvenation.
Even though his recent injuries were completely healed by that marvel of modern medicine, they still were taking a toll on him.
Although he still felt fatigued, he was well and already rebelling.
MARC
Why can't I leave? I have to return an animal and keep a promise.
DOCTOR
You're too weak to be doing anything, Mr. Daniels.
JIM
Marc, take it easy. In a few days of rest, you can do that.
MARC
But Hikiya isn't used to stalls. If I return her all upset, my uncle will never forgive me and Lashanti will kill herself. I couldn't live with myself if she did.
A stately middle-aged Brocana woman spoke from the doorway.
CANDORA
I will return Hikiya.
DOCTOR
Madam Candora.
CANDORA
Thank you, doctor. He will rest now.
MARC
But Lashanti will kill herself if I don't come back with Hikiya!
Marc pounded his fist on his thigh.
CANDORA
I have been told about that.
Marc noticed that Jim and the doctor quietly slipped out the door wanting to give his mother and him some privacy to discuss family problems.
CANDORA
I didn't know they had gone against my will and chose Lashanti for you. Nyala, Tashika and Nikaro have probably been mated when they were born, too. It' a shame. I'm so sorry, I tried to stop it when you were born. Jabayu even talked me into putting you through the Harak even though I didn't want you to be put through it.
Marc picked at the blanket over his legs.
MARC
They don't give up easily, do they, mom?
CANDORA
No.
MARC
What was his name?
CANDORA
Whose?
She sat down on the edge of his bed.
MARC
You're mate's.
CANDORA
Gayato. He died in his first hunt before we were acknowledged as adults. Then, I ran away with a human boy who loved to camp out in the mountains. I liked to visit him whenever he came. It made my parents very angry.
MARC
Jonathan Daniels?
CANDORA
Yes.
MARC
Where is he?
CANDORA
He promised he'd see you after his council meeting ended, Baji.
MARC
Please, don't call me baji.
CANDORA
What's wrong?
MARC
Jabayu called me that to try to make up for the other Brocana refusing to be near me. He always said he was so proud of how I was growing! It was a lie to convince you that they had accepted what you had done, but they haven't.
CANDORA
I know. That's why your sisters and brother will not go back. You were my first born male so they tried harder to cover their true feelings. I guess they thought that giving each of you partners might convince you to leave your Dad and I and denounce your human side. They've done the opposite- they've driven my children away from them completely.
MARC
But I must go back or Lashanti will kill herself! I can't let her do that. I love her as a friend.
CANDORA
Then bring her and I will figure what to do for her.
MARC
I hope it'll work.
CANDORA
It's time for you to rest, now.
He rested for two days more before he was released from the hospital.
EXT. KOBIHOK RIDGE – CLAN KELHIDI CAMP – DAY
Since Candora already returned the Sinvati, Marc returned to the camp in a flier.
JABAYU
You look well.
MARC
The healing tent is one machine I appreciate in the human world.
Jabayu ignored the insulting mention of the god-imitating device.
MARC
I have come for Lashanti as I promised.
Lashanti froze staring at the flier.
MARC
You're going to have to get used to them if you're going with me.
Lashanti quivered.
LASHANTI
You said he would stay like a proper husband!
JABAYU
Quiet. Could you not bring more fitting ride?
MARC
Are you refusing me? I bring the mount I choose to bring and live where I choose to live! Then, do what you will, woman!
ZAKOTI
I will defend her.
JABAYU
Zakoti, Etana did not return?
ZAKOTI
Why does it matter anyway? Etana hates me. She told me before she was captured. If she not accept Marcayo, she be my woman.
Lashanti cried joyfully and jumped into Zakoti's arms.
MARC
So be it!
He swung around and got into the flier and shoved the flier into full throttle.
INT. AMBASSADORIAL ESTATE – NEW SAN FRANCISCO
Jim met Marc after he landed at the ambassadorial estate on the outskirts of New San Francisco.
JIM
This place is magnificent. Did you grow up on this estate?
MARC
And another one on Earth just as big and gaudy as this one.
The door was opened by the butler.
MARC
Thanks, Stewart.
JIM
Your Dad has arranged a formal dinner tonight to celebrate our return and to greet Lashanti.
MARC
Well, at least that's been taken care of, partner. Lashanti accepted another man instead of coming with me when she realized that I was bringing her to the colony instead of staying.
JIM
They actually thought you were going to stay?
MARC
Another attempt by my uncle, but he should know by now, I'm too stubborn for him.
Just then, a young man with brown hair bounded down the grand marble stairs.
MARC
Nikky, if Mom saw you do that-
NIKARO
But she didn't, Marc. I bet you wish that those smugglers would've taken you to the fringe of the galaxy instead of here where Dad can force you to go to one of his State Dinners and you're the Guest of Honor, too! Woohoo! Squirm city, Marcay-ay-o!
Marc screwed his eyes shut and groaned.
MARC
Oh god, I want to go home.
Jim was holding his sides laughing.
MARC
I joined the force to get away from stuff like this!
ENRER NYALA
NYALA
Nikaro, act appropriately for an Ambassador's son. I heard you whooping two rooms away.
NIKARO
Nyala, I swear, you are too stiff.
NYALA
At least I behave properly. Marc, Father has a set of formal wear waiting for you, Mr. Meyers and Lashanti in your room.
JIM
Please, call me Jim.
NYALA
Okay, Jim, but when the dinner begins, I will address you as Mr. Meyers.
NIKARO
See? She's too stiff.
NYALA
Don't you have some of your lowlife friends to visit, Nikky?
NIKARO
No, but I'll go find some!
Nikaro bounded down the remaining steps to the front door.
NYALA
Be home in time for the dinner or Dad will be extremely angry with you!
NIKARO
Yeah, yeah!
NYALA
Baby brothers!
MARC
Lashanti didn't come, Ny.
NYALA
She didn't? She actually chose to go unclaimed?!
MARC
No, Zakoti’s Etana didn’t return from Rasmuler's mine's. Instead of staying alone, he chose to take Lashanti.
NYALA
Wow, you got lucky.
MARC
I hope they will be happy. Would you please convey the news to Mother and Father for me?
NYALA
Sure.
MARC
Thanks. We'll be in my suite until dinner if someone inquires.
NYALA
I'll tell Stewart.
They climbed the stairs and Marc led Jim down the hall and through a door in the long hall.
MARC
Now you see why I hate to come home, Jim? Formal wars with the informal and we're always told to act accordingly as befitting a child of a Diplomat.
JIM
I guess it does have it's drawbacks.
Jim groaned as he held up the dark blue three piece suit complete with a ruffled shirt and bow tie.
JIM
God, look at these suits! Do I really have to wear this tonight?
Marc chuckled maliciously.
MARC
Welcome to the world of Diplomacy, partner.
JIM
I wanna go home!
INT. BALLROOM – AMBASSADORIAL ESTATE – NEW SAN FRANCISCO – NIGHT
Marc stood in the ballroom thoroughly bored with a Centaurian Cocktail forgotten in his hand.
Jim was beside him pulling at his collar.
MARC
Jim, our uniform's neck is tighter than your suit's. Would you stop fidgeting?
JIM
It still feels uncomfortably tight, Marc!
Suddenly, Marc pulled up straight and met the couple who were approaching.
MARC
Councilman and Mrs. Doarty, how are you tonight?
MR. DOARTY
Such a lovely dinner your father has made tonight, Marcayo.
MARC
Yes.
MRS. DOARTY
Oh, you must have been so frightened in the clutches of those horrible men, gentlemen!
JIM
We are taught in the Academy how to deal with such possibilities, Ma'am.
MR. DOARTY
Yes, of course, Mr. Meyers. Still, I'm sure it was a memorable experience especially for Marcayo since he has only been on the job for three days before your unfortunate abduction.
JIM
He handled it very well, Mr. Doarty. I'm sure he will be commended for it.
MR. DOARTY
I'm sure!
Doarty disappeared into the crowd again.
MARC
You handled that like a Police Chief, Jim.
JIM
Yuck. How did they know my name, anyway?
MARC
(haughty)
It is unfashionable and politically incorrect to come to a state dinner without knowing the names and images of the honorees or the circumstance they are being honored for!
JIM
Oh, I stand corrected!
Stewart stood at a side doorway.
STEWART
Ladies and Gentlemen, dinner is served.
Instead of everyone just moving through the door, the crowd parted in front of Marc and Jim and waited patiently for them to enter the dining room first.
Marc looked at his partner whose face was beet red. He understood Jim's embarrassment.
Marc's father smiled sympathetically and he took Marc's mother's arm and joined them as they walked through the corridor of people.
As soon as they were through the door, the rest of the guests filed in behind them.
Marc's parents guided them to the head of the table where they sat side-by-side to the right of the head chair.
Marc's parents sat in the chairs to the left.
Nyala took the seat beside her mother and a pale girl with auburn hair, the blue tinged skin and the unique eyes of the Brocana sat down beside Jim.
Beside Nyala was a blank-faced Nikaro.
MARC
Jim, beside you is my sister Tashika. Tashika, this is my partner Jim Meyers.
Tashika bobbled her head.
TASHIKA
Pleased to meet you, Mr. Meyers. I've heard much about you.
Her eyes gleamed with mischief for a second, then it was gone and she gave a polite smile.
JIM
Does your family always talk with subtle gestures?
MARC
Only at formal dinners. I'd love to find out what Tash was alluding to.
Ambassador Daniels stood up tapping his knife against his lead crystal glass.
JON
A toast. To my son Marcayo and his partner James Meyers on their safe return and their subsequent arrest of the smugglers who set to injure our economy.
GUESTS
Here, here.
Nyala's eyes danced while she drank and Nikaro saluted Marc with his glass and drank.
Tashika snorted and received a stern look from her mother so she straightened her face and drank.
The rest of the dinner was quiet with much small talk as they ate their sumptuous meal.
Finally, when the evening ended, Marc and Jim were more than happy to get back to their rooms and get themselves ready to fly out the next morning.
JIM
I can see why you ran away from all this, Marc. All that pretending.
MARC
I've attended thousands of dinners like that since I was thirteen and paraded in cute fancy clothes at official functions at an even earlier age. It gets tiring quickly, but we always had to keep up the proper image.
JIM
Good night!
MARC
Good night. I am very eager to get away from here.
JIM
No kidding.
Jim closed his door across the hall from Marc's.
INT. NEW SAN FRANCISCO SPACE PORT – DAY
Marc and Jim were standing in the Spaceport dressed in casual clothes that were brought to them by a servant that morning.
All of Marc's family were at the space port to see them off on their voyage on a passenger ship back to Earth.
JON
I'm sorry I couldn't let you go home in the Namura, son, but I'll need it before you get back for a function I must attend with Ambassador Zerbeck Matauni in Canus Minor.
MARC
That's okay, Dad. I don't mind going by public transport. Say hello to Uncle Mat for me.
JON
I will.
JIM
Thanks for the dinner, Ambassador Daniels.
JON
My pleasure, Jim. You may call me Jon. I have been looking forward to meeting my son's partner, although, I would've preferred better circumstances.
JIM
Definitely.
Just then, their flight was announced for boarding.
NIKARO
Hang loose, bro.
MARC
Yeah, you too, Nik. Bye, Mom.
Marc leaned over and pecked Candora on the cheek.
CANDORA
I'm glad you resolved your problem with Lashanti.
MARC
You're not kidding. I almost died with relief when Zak claimed her.
JON
Good bye, Jim.
CANDORA
Take good care of yourself, Marcayo. When we're back on Earth, we'll come to visit you.
MARC
I'll take care of myself. Bye, Mom, Dad, everyone.
JIM
Nice to meet you Mrs. Daniels.
Jim picked up his small suitcase and the two Policemen strode off together to board their flight back to Earth.
END ACT 2
ACT 3.
INT. HOUSTON SPACE PORT - DAY
Two weeks later, they landed at the Houston Spaceport.
Malia rushed up and gave Jim a hug and a kiss.
Marc was met by Mr. Trevor who was anything but happy to see him.
TREVOR
Mr. Daniels Do you realize the trouble you've caused? There will definitely be an investigation conducted on whether you should be allowed to continue with the ISP.
Marc was stunned.
JIM
Wait. What do you mean? We were caught because of a suggestion I made in order to keep us alive.
TREVOR
Meyers, I'm not here to investigate you. That will be done by the ISP. There are other considerations that have prompted this investigation by the Alien Integration Bureau.
PATTERSON
Sorry, Marc, I tried to get the Captain to stop them, but even he couldn't do much about it.
MARC
That's okay. That was one of the conditions I agreed to when I was accepted to the Academy.
He held out his badge to the commander.
JIM
Marc. If we could do something for you.
MARC
There's nothing you can do.
Marc walked away.
When he arrived at his flier he had parked there on that fateful day, he stood beside it trembling. He roared and slammed his fist on roof, giving it a massive dent.
He climbed in and drove toward home, but stopped in the middle of a large stretch of desert and got out.
The sun of the Mojave Desert was strong and hot.
He pulled off his shirt then flung his shirt to the sand.
MARC
You ukvatu humans! You gave me the chance to do what I wanted to do, then you took it away! It wasn't my sh'kuktu fault! Damn you to your jhumani hell! Damn you.
He dissolved into tears. After a few minutes, he wiped his face, picked up his shirt, reentered his hover car and drove the rest of the way home to his small one bedroom apartment.
He entered, went straight to his bedroom and flopped across the bed.
The calm persistent voice of his computer pulled him away from his miserable thoughts, telling him that he had messages.
MARC
Go blow yourself up.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
That is not recommended, Mr. Daniels. The destruction of this unit would constitute vandalism of rented property which would bring about fines and/or prosecution. Would you like to hear your messages now?
MARC
If it'll make you shut up!
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Your command is unclear, Mr. Daniels, please restate your command.
MARC
Play messages!
AMBER
Marc, this is Amber Castillas. I waited for you all night. I really wanted to go out with you. Did you have an emergency situation or something? Please, call me back. Bye.
(BEEP)
Marc, this is Amber again. Is something wrong? It's been days and you haven't called me.
(BEEP)
Marc, this is Amber again. You're worrying me. If you don't call, I'm going to call the ISP just to see if you're all right.
MARC
Computer. Are all the rest of the messages from Amber Castillas?
COMPUTER (V.O.)
No, one is not from Amber Castillas.
MARC
Play that message.
LANDLORD (V.O.)
Mr. Daniels. You're behind on your rent. Please, make your payment.
MARC
Enough. Play the last message from Amber.
AMBER (V.O.)
This is Amber. If you do come home, please, call me. The ISP was very guarded when I called them, but they said that you were missing. I really liked you for that short time we talked.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
That is all the messages.
MARC
Okay.
He stood up and began to search for the electronic note pad with Amber's number. After a few minutes, he was swearing and throwing things on the floor.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Daniels, maybe I can help you locate what you are searching for?
MARC
I'm looking for Amber Castillas's damned vid-phone number!
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Her number was automatically programmed into this unit when you called her.
MARC
Now you sh'kuktu tell me!
COMPUTER (V.O.)
You did not ask me. Would you like for me to initiate contact?
MARC
Yes!
He pulled on a shirt.
The screen lit up when Amber appeared.
MARC
Hi, Amber.
AMBER
Where have you been?!
MARC
I don't know how much I can tell you,but I didn't deliberately miss our date.
AMBER
It's been all over the news that an ISP unit was destroyed and another was missing! I wasn't sure if you were the one destroyed or the one missing!
MARC
I can well understand.
AMBER
You're lip is quivering, Marc. Is something wrong?
MARC
I'm sorry, I can't go into detail until I know how much is classified, but my career may be over.
AMBER
No! I'm so sorry.
MARC
I don't want to bother you about my problems.
AMBER
I know we've just met, Marc, but I trust my instincts and they say that you are a nice guy. Besides, you sound like you really need a friend right now.
He turned away from the screen as tears began to flow again.
AMBER
Where are you?
MARC
That's okay, I'm just tired.
He dried his eyes, then turned back to the screen.
MARC
I just wanted to call to tell you I'm back and I'm okay.
AMBER
Are you sure?
MARC
I'm sure. Talk to you later? Maybe we can try to have that date again.
AMBER
Yeah, that's good. Will you be all right?
MARC
Yeah, I just need a few days to get back into things. I'll call you again when I'm recovered.
INT. AIB OFFICES, EARTH - DAY
Marc dressed up in his best suit and showed up at the building where the AIB was located.
He entered the building and was shown to the room he was supposed to be for the hearing. Cpt. Wanhochi, Cdr. Patterson and Jim Meyers were already inside. Patterson and Jim walked up to Marc. Patterson held out his hand. Marc shook Patterson's hand.
PATTERSON
Good luck, Marcayo. We're on your side.
JIM
Yeah, partner, give them hell.
MARC
Thanks. I really wasn't expecting you to attend.
JIM
Of course I would! I didn't stay in the desert with you for days to leave you stranded now!
PATTERSON
Listen, you are one of my patrolmen until those clowns say you aren't. Even that may be disputed. I don't abandon my patrolmen.
MARC
Thanks, Jim, Commander, I appreciate your standing behind me.
Jim clouted Marc on the back, then he and Cdr. Patterson returned to their seats. Marc went to his designated seat and sat just as the investigation panel entered and took their seats. AIB #1 remained standing.
SWEENEY
This hearing on the conduct of Jr. Lt. Marcayo Antoku Daniels is now in session.Jr. Lt. Daniels, when we supported your admission into the Interstellar Space Police Academy at the Venus station, it was given under the strict conditions that you would not bring untoward attention to yourself or cause controversy. Mr. Daniels, you did both.
You used reckless methods to apprehend a suspect and you incinerated another suspect. Mr. Trevor warned Cpt. Wanhochi about your conduct in those cases, but then, without regard to your agreement, you allowed yourself to be ambushed and to be taken prisoner by a group of freighter pilots who were later proven to be smugglers who took you to Alpha Centauri and you didn't stop there. You involved yourself with the Alpha Centauri 7 Interstellar Space Police.
(BEAT)
Mr. Daniels, you made a travesty of your agreement to this bureau by constantly causing attention to be brought on you. You have all but wrecked the integration program. We hereby rescind our support of your participation in the Alien Integration Program and hereby revoke your license as an Interstellar Police Officer.
Marc put his head in his hands feeling crushing defeat.
Chief Wilson, the Police Chief in charge of the ISP Sol under the Alliance Defense Force enteredand walked up to the head table.
WILSON
Gentlemen, I ask to be allowed to address this panel.
SWEENEY
Chief, you may have the floor.
WILSON
Thank you, Mr. Sweeney. It seems this young lieutenant did bring attention on himself for some rather bold actions. He was unfortunate to join the force during a very stressful situation. Two patrolmen's lives were lost during this investigation. Very unfortunate, indeed, that this young man is being punished for exemplary conduct in the line of duty, for quick, split-second decision-making during stressful, life-threatening situations.
The room erupted in noisy conversation.
WILSON
His only error is that he acted brash like a Rookie tends to do.
The room quieted again.
WILSON
Though, not many Rookies live through their first days, anyway, especially, like Jr. Lt. Daniels's first days were, because he is half alien, he is watched closer than other Rookies. That just puts pressure on Jr. Lt. Daniels to try harder to be a good policeman. Gentlemen, I only ask that Jr. Lt. Daniels be given another chance to pursue his chosen career. He has the potential to be a fine Interstellar Police Officer.
He sat down beside Cpt. Wanhochi.
SWEENEY
We will take time to deliberate on Chief Wilson's points and reconvene this hearing in an half-an-hour.
The panel rose and walked out the door.
Marc sunk farther into his chair and sighed, then, stood up and saluted when he noticed that Chief Wilson was approaching him.
WILSON
Lt. Daniels. I hope my speech sways those old hard-liners.
MARC
I hope so, sir.
WILSON
I was very angry when I heard they threw this bureaucratic garbage on you right after you stepped off the ship that brought you back from Alpha Centauri. They can be so heartless.
MARC
Uh, yes, sir.
WILSON
Not only that, but they have a surprise waiting for them in the form of a call from Ambassador Daniels to give them weak knees.
Marc groaned.
WILSON
What's wrong, son?
MARC
Sir, it's just that, nothing against you, but I don't exactly like for my father to come rescue me every time I get into a fix.
WILSON
Son, these are political game-players. You've got to play their game and that's what your father's good at. If that rescues your career, it should be worth the aggravation.
MARC
I guess so, sir.
WILSON
You've had a hell of a two weeks, son. I wouldn't want to go through what you've gone through especially if I were a rookie. You deserve a second chance. Let's go have a drink with Cpt. Wanhochi, Cdr. Patterson, and Tech Officer Meyers while we have the time.
MARC
Yes, sir.
The chief gathered up the rest and they went to a snack bar in the same building and sat down with cups of coffee.
WILSON
Son, these people are a pain in the butt, but they are working with a resistant public so they do tend to tiptoe around the public. That doesn't help you too much, but at least they've given you a chance.
MARC
A chance to have my dream in my grasp just for them to yank it away and send me away like a bad boy, but, sir, did I do anything wrong?
PATTERSON
No, a normal rookie wouldn't have the heat put on him like you have, Marcayo.
JIM
Damn right.
WANHOCHI
I commend your ingenuity in the handling of an extremely difficult situation. If I have to, I'll send you a medal of commendation in the mail even after you clear your locker out. They can't stop me from doing that.
WILSON
It may steam them a bit, Yuri, but it's not outside of your authority.
MARC
You're going to give me a medal?
WILSON
Why not? If your captain thinks you've earned it, he can and if I had that request in front of me now, I would sign my authorization to it, too.
An announcement was made over the intercom that the hearing was reconvening in five minutes so they left the snack bar and returned to the theater.
As soon as they returned to their seats, the panel reentered the room and sat down.
SWEENEY
After considering added conditions concerning the investigation, we have decided to reverse our decision and place Jr. Lt. Daniels on a probationary period pending a revaluation at the end of a six month period in which time, Mr. Daniels, you must hold to your original agreement to the letter. Is that clear?
MARC
Yes, sir!
SWEENEY
Then, this hearing is adjourned.
WILSON
It worked this time but next time won't be so easy.
JIM
That means no dumping my stomach into the void, partner.
PATTERSON
Or tickling the belly of a suspect's ship in order to snag them.
MARC
Got it!
WANHOCHI
We intend to keep you around for a while.
Wanhochi smiled as he handed Marc’s badge back to him.
MARC
Oh, I intend to stay around for a while!
Marc caressed the silver metal with his fingers.
JIM
You better!
Jim threw his arm around Marc's shoulders and the group filed out the door.
WANHOCHI
And you better win a ribbon for us at the Mars Competition!
MARC
They can't keep me away from it!
IIT. ISPSOL PRECINCT
Marc was in a very cheerful mood when he walked into the locker room of the station to dress, but he was puzzled. The whole locker room was empty. He put down the bundle of his fresh uniform and quickly dressed. Then he went to the arms room to sign out his weapon.
MARC
Hey, Harris, do you know where everyone is?
HARRIS
Not a clue.
Harris handed Marc his pistol and a brand new pistol belt.
HARRIS
Got two new spares in it.
MARC
Thanks.
Marc strapped it on and walked to the briefing room. He looked through the window and was puzzled that no one was there either. He stepped in. Everyone leapt up from crouches below the window.
CHORUS
Surprise!
PATTERSON
Welcome back, Daniels!
Marc felt his face heat up in a blush. Jim patted Marc vigorously on the back while George and Pete grinned and stepped aside. Malia was standing behind them beside Amber Castillas.
Marc stared stunned as Amber walked over and hugged him.
AMBER
How about that date you promised me?
MARC
Uh, how about tonight?
AMBER
I'll be waiting.
She kissed him on the cheek and walked out of the briefing room. The people cheered.
Patterson returned to his podium.
PATTERSON
Okay, people, we still have beats to patrol, so get to your seats.
Everyone went to their desks and sat down.
PATTERSON
First of all. I believe Lt. Daniels lost this?
Patterson grinned as he held up a magnakee.
Marc smiled sheepishly as he stepped up to the podium to accept it from Patterson.
PATTERSON
Hm, I.S.P., Sol, M.D., Love, J.D., not normal issue?
MARC
It was a present from my father at my graduation. I asked Cpt. Wanhochi to use it but I'll keep it at home and get a standard issue, sir.
A few people chuckled.
PATTERSON
Do you know that little infraction informed us you and T.O. Meyers were still alive?
MARC
Huh?
PATTERSON
Good thinking, lieutenant. Here have your father's gift back.
Patterson put it into Marc's hand.
PATTERSON
You don't have to get a standard issue if you don't want to. Now, I do recall we're gearing up for the Intergalactic Space-plane Competition?
MARC
Yes, sir.
PATTERSON
Well are you going to do your duty, Mr. Daniels?
MARC
Always, sir.
PATTERSON
Then you'd better win us a ribbon. Mr. Daniels is going to compete in the space-plane races for our division! So, when we're not directing traffic, I think we should step in to cheer on our lieutenant!
Everyone cheered.
PATTERSON
Okay, now that we have Lt. Daniels nice and embarrassed. It's time to get to work. Let's get out on patrol.
Everyone congratulated Marc as they left the briefing room to go to their cruisers.
Nelson stopped at Marc and grudgingly held his hand out.
Marc carefully reached out and shook it.
NELSON
That was a tough situation anyone could have died in. You're one tough guy, Daniels. You have my respect.
Nelson moved on.
HASSID
Well done, kid.
He followed his partner.
Marc thanked everyone until it was just Jim and him.
Jim slung his arm around Marc and they went together back to Sierra-lima 14 to start a new day on patrol.
FADE OUT
.
THE END.