Lyssa Thorne's
Science Fiction Novels
Double Dragon Ebooks
WARNING:
CONTENT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR GENERAL AUDIENCES DUE TO EXPLICIT SEXUAL CONTENT.
“SHATTERED EXPECTATIONS”
EPISODE 84 – ALLIANCE DIVIDED
BY: LYSSA THORNE
FADE IN:
INT. HOSPITAL, EURYANASSA
Nikklo woke again and looked around.
Cherna stood up from a chair and put down the reading pad she had been reading. She walked over to his bedside and bent over him.
CHERNA
Welcome back. How are you feeling?
NIKKLO
Like I've been through a blender but my nerves are calmer.
He reached up to touch her mid-length blond hair that framed her face.
CHERNA
Who took you?
NIKKLO
I don't know. Tarek was on Sailia, unaware I had been taken. It had to have been a Tauian. I have to find out what Tauian violated my ship and stole me away to Selik's light prison.
CHERNA
Arcas was angry that you were snatched right beside him.
Nikklo sat up.
NIKKLO
I know. He told me. I need Danu to clear me for duty. We need to find fuel for this ship.
CHERNA
Slow down, Sanna.
Nikklo took her hand, raised it up to his lips and kissed it.
NIKKLO
I wish I could, but I command this ship and the crew needs me to do my job.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
Danu, can I be released to duty?
DANU (PSI V.O.).
You're not going anywhere until I give you another physical.
Nikklo laid back and sighed.
CHERNA
Danu's just doing his job.
NIKKLO
I know. We're running low on fuel and in a tense situation but I'll wait.
CHERNA
Good.
Danu walked in and stepped up beside Cherna.
DANU
Impatient already?
NIKKLO
The Humans want to boycott Astrisi business. I'm needed.
He pulled out a medical scanner and hovered it over his body.
DANU
I know. Your electrolytes are low from the electrocution. I want you to drink plenty of fluids to rehydrate yourself or I'm going to haul you back for an intravenous feed. You understand me, Nikklosannaro?
NIKKLO
Houk, Doctor.
Danu placed the scanner back into his pocket.
DANU
Now that we understand each other, you're due another dosage of your mood medicine but since your chemistry is further unbalanced from the electrocution, I'll skip a dosage. If you begin to be too emotional, you need to alert me and I'll put you back on them.
NIKKLO
Am I free to go?
DANU
You can go.
Nikklo stood up and put his fingers through his hair to make sure it was laying straight down to his shoulders.
NIKKLO
Okay, I'll see you both later.
He kissed Cherna on her lips and walked out.
INT. HALLWAY, EURYANASSA – TRAVELING - CONTINUOUS
He walked quietly through the busy halls of the ship and nodded to each person he passed until he walked onto the bridge.
INT. BRIDGE, EURYANASSA - CONTINUOUS
Marc turned toward him.
MARC
Are you feeling better now?
NIKKLO
Still a bit shaky but Danu cleared me. What's the status on fuel?
MARC
As you speculated, Regalis said if we get anywhere near them, they'll shoot at us.
NIKKLO
Damn. Did you talk to Oronio?
MARC
They said they didn't want to do business with space gypsies.
NIKKLO
Shit, if we can't find fuel, we'll have to ground Euryanassa in the bunker at Gasbaja and the Humans will continue to shut us out.
TAREK (PSI V.O.).
Nik, I found someone who will give you some fuel.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
Good, who is it?
TAREK (PSI V.O.).
Belvas will fuel you. Jahium said they've had their own refinery since before Humans came but they only made enough to power their ships. They'll fuel Euryanassa.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
Good, I'll prepare the ship to phase to Belvas.
TAREK (PSI V.O.).
You be careful with phasing after your electrocution. You may have trouble with tactile light sensitivity.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
You mean I may feel like the light is burning me?
TAREK (PSI V.O.).
You might and your fractal bend may be a bit off right now.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
Fractal bend? What do you mean?
TAREK (PSI V.O.).
When light passes through a Tauian body, it acts like a prism. When we phase, we push ourselves along by the light that bends through our bodies. If the slope of an angle is more shallow or sharper than normal, you can feel like you're flying a bit wildly. The feeling can be unsettling. Some Tauians have stopped phasing after an abrupt change in their fractal bend. That electrocution could have shifted some of your fractal bend.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
Okay, I'm warned but I have to get my ship fuel.
TAREK (PSI V.O.).
I'm glad you're feeling better. Later, kid.
NIKKLO
Okay, Tarek just told me the Belvans have fuel. Let's prepare for a phase to Belvas.
MARC
You're going to give us time to prepare for this phase?
NIKKLO
Since every time I say phase, you're tackling a chair or a table, I thought I would give you more notice.
MARC
You've got to admit, you've grabbed a light beam less than a second after announcing you're going to phase.
NIKKLO
Houk, I have and that's why I'm doing this.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
All hands, prepare for phase. We're going to Belvas to upload fuel. I will give you one minute to settle yourselves before I begin the phase. Nikklo, out.
Nikklo watched the digital clock on his panel before he changed forms, grabbed a light beam and phased.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
He felt like a ball in a pinball machine he had played at the convenience store on Earth two hundred years ago. His hands felt like they were burning and he mentally yelped each time he changed light beams.
SAILI NIKKLO
He settled back to sub-light and released the light. He changed back to Saili form and fell heavily to the floor, shaking.
Marc crouched beside him.
MARC
Are you alright?
Nikklo clutched his hands to his chest and hissed.
NIKKLO
That hurt. Tarek warned me the electrocution may cause temporary problems with phasing but we made it.
Marc pulled Nikklo's hands away from his chest and looked at them.
MARC
Your hands are burned. You need to have Danu treat your hands.
NIKKLO
I will.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
All hands, this is Nikklo. We've arrived at Belvas. Prepare to receive fuel delivery. Nikklo out.
MARC
Go get your hands treated. I'm worried you're going into shock.
Nikklo nodded and stood up shakily.
Di'ok grabbed Nikklo around the shoulders and guided him from the bridge as another translator took the communications station.
DI'OK (PSI V.O.).
Danu, I'm bringing Nik in with burned hands. Be ready for us.
DANU (PSI V.O.).
I'm prepping the burn kit. I'll be ready for you.
INT. HOSPITAL, EURYANASSA - CONTINUOUS
Di'ok rushed Nikklo into the medical suite and Danu immediately met them.
He put his arms around Nikklo and guided him to a burn room.
Di'ok sat down in the waiting area.
The door closed and Danu guided Nikklo to an examination table.
DANU
Sit.
Nikklo sat on the table.
Danu pulled out his sensor and waved it over Nikklo's angry orange-red hands.
DANU
What happened?
NIKKLO
Tarek told me, after the electrocution, I may become tactile sensitive to light for a while. He wasn't kidding. This is what I got from phasing Euryanassa to Belvas.
DANU
Okay, it's barely second degree so I'll get Jeremy to nudge your healing along faster so you can get back to work. Vara told me the humans are getting vitriolic toward us. She's worried.
NIKKLO
If my sister is getting worried about news feeds, it's cause for concern.
DANU (PSI V.O.)
Jeremy, please come to burn room one to heal Nik's second degree burns on his hands.
JEREMY (PSI V.O.)
On my way. Scrubbing now.
Marc (PSI V.O.)
Nik, Belvas is sending fueling ships now.
Nikklo (PSI V.O.)
Tell them we gladly take their offer of fuel and we are willing to give them monetary compensation for it.
Marc (PSI V.O.)
How much?
Nikklo (PSI V.O.)
Whatever they request.
Marc (PSI V.O.)
They say your protection is enough.
Nikklo (PSI V.O.)
I'll have to thank Jahium profusely next time I see him.
Marc (PSI V.O.)
That won't be long, cause Jahium wants to meet with you at your earliest convenience.
Jeremy stepped in through the sliding door and stopped beside him.
JEREMY
Show me your hands.
Nikklo held up his hands palm up.
Jeremy held his hands over Nikklo's hands and concentrated.
Nikklo felt his hands itch but he willed himself to remain still to let Jeremy's talent do its work.
NIKKLO
You know it takes me a lot of restraint not to squirm while I'm healing?
JEREMY
I know it does. Because of your Tauian nervous system, it's more sensitive to stimulation. I noticed you bite your lip to keep yourself still during healing procedures.
NIKKLO
It's hard to conceal details from a Saili.
JEREMY
I'll restrain my observations if you me want to, Dad.
NIKKLO
Nui, I don't get offended. I know you'll keep the observations in confidence. How did Ambri's forces do?
JEREMY
Very few injuries. I think they were trying to distract us from snatching you more than to do much damage.
NIKKLO
I'm glad the defenders took minimal damage, although I was captured.
JEREMY
You're healed. Ambri was very upset you were kidnapped.
NIKKLO
Well, I'm home, thanks to Tarek and Arcas. Now, I've got to visit Jahium. Fa'arata, Jeremy.
JEREMY
Ni'chawei, Dad.
DANU
Can we not see you here for healing for a while this time, Nik?
NIKKLO
I sure hope so. Next time, I want it to be for more leisurely interactions.
DANU
And I saw your electrolytes are still low. Do something about that soon or I'll force that I.V. into you.
NIKKLO
I promise I'll drink something during my meeting with Jahium. Later, brothers.
DANU
Later, Nik.
Nikklo stepped out of the room and was met by Cherna.
CHERNA
Are you done hurting yourself today?
NIKKLO
I sure hope so.
CHERNA
Di sent to me that you burned your hands in a phase.
NIKKLO
An adverse side effect of the electrocution.
CHERNA
I hope it's temporary.
NIKKLO
You and me both, lover. It took all my concentration to not let go of the light beams and dump the Euryanassa in a random area of space. I got us here. Now I have to meet with Jahium on Belvas. He wants to talk to me. Did Di go back to the bridge?
CHERNA
Houk, Marc said he was needed back at his post.
NIKKLO
Okay, I'm going to the bridge. See you later, love.
CHERNA
I can't tell you to stay out of trouble but don't hurt yourself.
NIKKLO
I'm always in trouble but I'll try to not hurt myself.
He walked out of the medical suite to return to the bridge.
INT. COUNCIL BUILDING, BELVAS - DAY
NIKKLO was met by Defender ALRIAN outside the emerald pyramidal buildings common to the natives of Belvas.
NIKKLO
Alrian, nice to see you again.
Alrian gripped Nikklo's forearm.
ALRIAN
Nice to see you too. What name do you want me to call you? I hear you've changed it.
NIKKLO
My name is Nikklosannaro. I go by Nikklo, Nik or Nikky.
ALRIAN
Okay, Nikklo. Follow me and I will take you to where you'll meet Jahium. I'm glad I finally get to meet the Great Defender since we Belvan Defenders have been trained to await your arrival.
Nikklo followed the red colored man with blue hair into a pyramidal building and they walked through it nearly to the pinnacle.
Nikklo stopped at the opaque wall and looked down to the street below.
NIKKLO
This reminds me of the view I saw when I was fighting Verano's mind-wiping serum. I thought you and Jahium were ghosts when you appeared to me to inject me with a counter agent so I wouldn't die before I found help.
ALRIAN
That was a while ago. You were a youth named Sannaro then. I had a feeling we had to help you if we wanted to survive. I'm glad I summoned Jahium to help you since you later revealed yourself as the Great Defender we were awaiting.
Nikklo looked down the street and saw a cluster of Humans waving signs.
He focused on a sign that said, Astrisi murders, stop your reign of terror!
Another said, ASTRISI, stop harboring the Tauian Destroyer of Worlds!
Nikklo scowled and turned away.
ALRIAN
You hate your reputation as Destroyer of Worlds?
NIKKLO
Yes, I hate it. I only destroyed one world and many speculate I've destroyed dozens and need to be contained for their safety. I don't like to even use my powers!
ALRIAN
The history of Belvas says all Defenders have been treated with anxious respect because they are the only Belvans who may carry weapons.
NIKKLO
Yes, we Astrisi Defenders are also treated with anxious respect but all Astrisi are more trained in self defense so we're on more equal footing in our communities. Does your Hlatutara have a name?
ALRIAN
Zelzen. Do you have a Hlatutara?
NIKKLO
Yes, he's in the natural form and he is Arcas.
ALRIAN
Yours isn't encased in metal?
NIKKLO
No, mine still looks like a winged spider. He's younger too. Yours may have been encased in metal to restrain their predatory nature.
ALRIAN
Very few know the Hlatutara is an animal.
NIKKLO
They are native to Sailia. I've seen a swarm- well, for a second before I ducked into a trench to avoid being shredded apart and eaten.
ALRIAN
I have read that a swarm can be very aggressive. Do the females actually lay their eggs in carcasses so the next scavenger would consume the eggs, incubate them and be eaten from within?
NIKKLO
Yes, it is a rather disturbing fact, but that's why only males are used as Defender weapons.
ALRIAN
We have trained our metal encased ones to be obedient to telepathic commands.
NIKKLO
I have also trained mine to be obedient to telepathic commands.
ALRIAN
Where is he?
NIKKLO
On my ship right now but if I summon him, he'll phase to me instantly.
ALRIAN
That's an ability Zelzen lacks.
NIKKLO
That's because I phase him like a Tauian. It can be quite useful.
An older man with red skin and pale blue-white hair entered.
JAHIUM
Ah, thank you for keeping the Great Defender occupied until I could arrive, Alrian.
ALRIAN
My pleasure, Jahium. We've been discussing old memories and how our Hlatutara differ.
Alrian bowed.
ALRIAN
I hope you will allow me to remain with you since there are Human protesters near and I would like to make sure they stay away from this meeting.
JAHIUM
You may remain.
ALRIAN
Thank you.
NIKKLO
Thank you so much for offering to fuel my ship, Senior Scientist Jahium.
JAHIUM
We are only offering the Great Defender the opportunity to do his job since we are in need of his protection. Can I get you a drink, Great Defender?
NIKKLO
I would appreciate a drink, Senior Scientist.
JAHIUM
Alcoholic or non-alcoholic?
NIKKLO
No alcohol, please.
JAHIUM
We have a fruit juice blend.
NIKKLO
That sounds good. I'll take a glass of the juice.
Nikklo accepted the glass and began to drink greedily until he remembered his manners and forced himself to sip.
JAHIUM
If you're so thirsty, please quench your thirst as much as you like.
NIKKLO
I'm recovering from a recent injury.
Jahium brought the pitcher over and refilled his glass. He set the pitcher down beside Nikklo.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
JAHIUM
Please drink your fill.
Nikklo downed the whole glass in a few gulps.
NIKKLO
Thanks. I was very thirsty.
JAHIUM
May I ask about your injury?
NIKKLO
I was electrocuted so I was dehydrated.
JAHIUM
Who electrocuted you?
NIKKLO
A former ADF officer who was sore about my first officer's retirement from the ADF to change to my ship.
JAHIUM
It is good you can resist electrocution but I am disturbed that a Human ADF officer would do such a brazen attack.
ALRIAN
Is his name Selik?
NIKKLO
That's his name.
ALRIAN
He has been talking forcefully to the Human population through video feeds to turn on anyone not of pure Human descent because he says they're helping the Tauians to hide within our Alliance to conquer it in the name of the Destroyer of Worlds.
Nikklo felt irritation rise in him and the glass shattered into dust that scattered across the table.
NIKKLO
Shit, I didn't mean to do that.
Nikklo stood up and gathered the dust into a pile, swiped the pile into his hands and dropped it into the trash can.
Jahium handed him a new glass.
JAHIUM
I can understand why his words can irritate you. We allowed the Humans to share our world after we returned from our hiding slightly out of phase from this plane but they are sorely testing our patience. We try to ask them to block the video broadcasts but their reply is quite aggressive. They say if it has any truth to it, they have the right to hear the message.
ALRIAN
I've had to break up several demonstrations like the one down the street several times a day when it has gotten a bit rowdy.
Nikklo stood up and walked to the wall to look at the protesters.
NIKKLO
I never thought Humans would turn on us like this. I was a big advocate for the Astrisi to apply to the Alliance for membership. I was young and naive then.
ALRIAN
Is it wrong to hope for basic decency among sentient beings? I had hoped the Humans would be reasonable but this situation is getting more charged quickly.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Nik, reports are reaching us from all twelve Astrisi ships that they're meeting resistance and even violence. They're asking for you and Tarek to transport them here as quickly as possible.
NIKKLO
I dislike interrupting this meeting, Jahium, but Marc Daniels has told me telepathically that the Astrisi fleet is insisting Tarek and I phase all twelve ships to Belvas.
JAHIUM
Oh, this is dire news. Of course, Tsikakayu. You must rescue your people.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Tarek, can you help me rescue all twelve Astrisi ships?
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Marc already contacted me. I'm getting ready to join you on Euryanassa. I'll be there in a few minutes.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.).
Okay, see you soon.
NIKKLO
I'll be back again, Jahium. I think we need to gather together those sympathetic with the Astrisi so we can discuss the violence.
JAHIUM
I'll begin calling around. Go rescue your people.
Nikklo nodded before he reached out for a light beam and phased back to Euryanassa.
INT. BRIDGE, EURYANASSA
As soon as Nikklo reappeared on the Euryanassa, Danu rushed up to him.
DANU
Are you really going to phase all twelve ships right after I healed your hands from the last long distance phase? Are you rachi?
NIKKLO
Our sister ships are under attack! I have to do my job as the Great Defender!
DANU
You've been in my med bay two times today! Are you going to drive yourself to death, Nikklosannaro?
NIKKLO
I am a defender. Death is a part of the job. Not to do my job would be cowardly!
DANU
You also need to defend yourself from harm! I think you're not thinking this through!
NIKKLO
You honestly think I am seeking injury, Danunka?
DANU
Don't use my whole name! You know I hate my whole name!
NIKKLO
Then don't use my whole name!
DANU
I wouldn't say your whole name because telling your partial lineage several generations back hurts my tongue, asshole!
NIKKLO
Insulting each other isn't doing us any good. I don't like pain any more than anyone else does. If I don't go to our sister ship's aide, they'll die! I can't live with that. That would be like you telling one of your nurses you won't do surgery because you don't want to risk the patient dying on the table!
Danu scowled deeply.
NIKKLO
If I need my hands healed again, I will seek the healing. I have to rescue the other Astrisi ships!
Jeremy entered through the bridge hatch and handed Nikklo a pair of clear stretchy gloves.
NIKKLO
What are these?
JEREMY
Silicon gloves. Maybe they'll protect your shell from the heat until you're no longer sensitive to phasing.
NIKKLO
Thank you, Jeremy. I'm glad you understand why I have to risk this. I love you, Danu, but I can't turn away from my duty.
DANU
I love you too. That's why I'm trying to save your ass! I don't want my wife to loose her brother again!
NIKKLO
I don't want her to loose her brother again either. I'll try to be careful.
Nikklo pulled the gloves onto his hands.
Tarek appeared beside him.
TAREK
Have all of you finished your argument?
DANU
Yes.
TAREK
Good, Nik and I have to leave.
DANU
I'm tying you down for that I.V. when you get back!
NIKKLO
Okay, I'll surrender to your I.V. after this is done. I'll probably need the rest anyway.
CHANGE TO TAUIAN NIKKLO AND TAUIAN TAREK
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I'll get six ships and you get six ships.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
I really hope your tactile sensitivity is past, to tell you the truth. Sensing your phase to Belvas gave me a headache.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
It scared the shit out of me too but we have to save the other Astrisi ships.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
Phase safely, kid.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
You too.
PHASING VISUAL
Nikklo grabbed a light beam and headed toward the Vukutis because he sensed from Di'ok that their message had sounded more urgent.
Nikklo felt like he was still traveling a bit wildly but not as wild as before. The silicon gloves were heating up slightly but they kept his hands from hurting.
He dropped back to sub-space near the Vukutis. He yelped mentally as a laser bolt went through his shell and bent toward empty space.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
What's wrong, Nikky?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Goddamn it, I just had a laser bolt phase through me!
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
That had to hurt but I don't sense any damage.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Dusti, tell your people to grab something! I'm going to rush in and phase you away.
DUSTI (PSI V.O.)
Fa'arata! I'm containing a hull breach!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We'll make repairs at Belvas. I'm making my run now. Prepare to phase in a half a minute.
Nikklo swept toward the Vukutis and noticed the hull was blackened and gaping just above the lower flight deck.
At least that was probably a storage room easily sealed off.
He touched the skin of the ship and phased away.
After a minute of course corrections, he dropped into sub-space near Belvas and let go of the ship.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
We're at Belvas. Secure the ship and tell my Euryanassa if you need supplies to make repairs or rescue crews.
DUSTI (PSI V.O.)
You're a lifesaver, San.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
My pleasure, Dusti. Going to get another ship.
MARC
Nik?
NIKKLO
Houk.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Urvasi says they're hiding near a moon of Alpha Centauri 7 under Jon Daniels' protection so they can wait to be evacuated last.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Okay, we've got ships currently repelling attacks so I'm glad Urvasi says they can safely wait. I hope Jon doesn't come under fire for protecting Urvasi.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
You hope? That's my father and my native home you're talking about.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I'm aware of that, my friend. We're all worried about this outbreak of Human violence toward non-Humans.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
Nik, I need you right now at the Furdusi! Things are getting very hot here. I don't have the skills to handle this!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Okay, I'm locking onto you and phasing to you now.
Nikklo turned toward his father's unique mental signature.
PHASING VISUAL
He returned to sub-space to a civilian shuttle firing at him at very close range.
He centered himself between the laser beams.
The beams hit the Furdusi.
The Furdusi shuddered but it's shields held.
The shuttle would collide with him in one minute.
They probably didn't see him or his sudden drop from phase wasn't picked up on the sensor until it was too late for evasive maneuvers.
He controlled dread and flew toward the shuttle. He held out his hand and raised his molecular inversion field around him.
He felt the space particles around him draft up over the canopy of the shuttle. He rode the updraft and grazed his hand along the hull.
The shuttle exploded in a puff of sand.
He cringed as the sand pitted his shell before he was beyond the cloud.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
You okay, kid? That hurt.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
It hurt but I'm mostly unharmed. My shell has some new pitting.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
I'll help you scour your shell after we get all the ships to Belvas.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Scour my shell?
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
You've never given yourself a sanding?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
No, what are you talking about?
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
Oh shit, it's a wonder you can still phase if you've never scoured your shell!
Nikklo avoided another laser volley.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Talk about it later. I've got a battle to fight.
PILOT #1 (PSI V.O.)
What the hell? Gordon's ship went poof! What's going on here?
PILOT #2 (PSI V.O.)
Damn it, sensors are picking up Tauian heat signatures! Tauians are helping the goddamned Astrisi!
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
They know we're here, Tarek. Go get another ship. I'll stay and fight this battle then phase the Furdusi.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
Good luck, kid.
Nikklo saw Tarek's form stretch into the light stream.
He returned his attention to the battle.
Now all the shuttles were turning to shoot at him.
He flew vertical to their trajectory.
Two shuttle pilots frantically did evasive maneuvers to avoid collision with each other.
Nikklo twirled into a barrel roll.
The light twisted around him into a small vortex and buffeted the shuttles into locking wings.
They careened out of control and exploded.
PILOT #1 (PSI V.O.)
What the hell was that?
PILOT #2 (PSI V.O.)
Selik warned us about this. It's the Destroyer of Worlds, himself!
Nikklo dove for the Furdusi and phased it without warning.
PHASING VISUAL
He dropped them back to sub-space near the Euryanassa and slumped his shoulders in relief.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
You okay, Nik? The Furdusi said you were in a hell of a fight and phased them rather violently.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Convey my apologies for the injuries that may have resulted from the violent phase. The Humans figured out I was the Tauian assisting the Furdusi. I was having to do some very fancy flying to evade their fire and didn't want them to learn too much about what I can do so I snatched the Furdusi and phased.
MARC (PSI V.O.)
Di is passing on your message to the Furdusi now. Can you still phase more ships?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, I'm tiring a bit but nothing I can't handle. I'm going back out to get more ships.
Nikklo looked around and saw three classic Astrisi ships were in orbit around Belvas. Nine more were out there.
A flash heralded the arrival of Tarek and the Mopani.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Di, have you heard anything from Kumani?
DI'OK (PSI V.O.)
Nui, I haven't. That's odd.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
It is odd. Hadah, why haven't you answered any hails?
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
You finally sent to me. Our communications array is damaged.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Are you under attack?
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Nui, worse, we did an emergency landing on a moon. We seem to have eluded detection but they're trying to find us. I have minimal systems working to give the least energy trail for them to lock on to.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Continue to lay low. I'll come for you next. All the Astrisi ships are being pulled back to Belvas. I've had to rescue Vukutis and Furdusi from the heat of battle.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
All Astrisi ships are being attacked?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
All of them. We're getting help from Belvas and Jahium wants an emergency meeting of allies to discuss the violence. I'm phasing to you now.
TAREK (PSI V.O.)
I'll get the Muluku while you get Kumani.
Nikklo phased to Hadah's mental signature.
PHASING VISUAL
His hands were getting sore but he continued until he landed on the bridge of his childhood ship.
He cringed at the heavy smoke that closed in on him.
Hadah bumped into him, jumped back and clothes-lined him to the floor.
Nikklo hit the floor hard and changed forms.
SAILI NIKKLO
NIKKLO
Owe, shit, that hurt!
He coughed from the smoke.
Hadah crouched beside him.
HADAH
Kasa'i, I reacted defensively before I found out what I collided with.
Nikklo hissed as he pulled the silicon gloves off to look at his stinging hands.
NIKKLO
Evi'it.
HADAH
You're hands are red. You should have that looked at.
NIKKLO
Great and you're grounded with minimal systems.
HADAH
Tila can heal your hands with a mobile regenerator before you phase us.
NIKKLO
Nui, I'm going to phase first. The sweeps are getting closer.
HADAH
Listen, you crazy boy, you're pushing yourself too hard again. I trained you. I know your habits as well as my own.
NIKKLO
I'm no longer a boy, Hadah. I'm a commander of a ship and your peer! Your ship is barely functional and your opponents are getting nearer with intent to destroy this ship! If I think we need to leave before I heal, it's my choice!
HADAH
Move us at your discretion, Tsikakayu.
Nikklo climbed back to his feet.
NIKKLO
Fa'arata. Prepare to phase.
A short stocky woman ran down the stairs and stopped before him. Her dusty rose hair was in disarray.
ADARA
Sannaro, please listen to Hadah.
NIKKLO
I'm sorry, Mother. I can't comply this time. Please sit down so you won't be injured in the phase.
Adara hugged Nikklo.
NIKKLO
Okay, that's anchored enough.
TAUIAN NIKKLO PHASING VISUAL
TAUIAN NIKKLO phased the Kumani with all inhabitants to Belvas.
SAILI NIKKLO
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah, does Kumani have enough systems to maintain orbit or do we need to request a landing on Belvas?
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
We need to land.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Jahium, can I have permission to land the Kumani on Belvas?
JAHIUM (PSI V.O.)
You have permission to land at 8790326.9. It's an empty field that is large enough for an Astrisi ship but it's far from any facilities. Will they need emergency aide?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
I think they can be self-sustaining for now.
JAHIUM (PSI V.O.)
Okay, get that ship on the ground.
NIKKLO
I have permission to land the Kumani on Belvas. Prepare for another phase.
Adara put her head on his chest.
ADARA
Baby, don't push yourself like this!
TAUIAN NIKKLO phased the Kumani to the coordinates and settled the ship onto the ground.
SAILI NIKKLO felt faint and leaned on Adara.
Adara struggled to hold him up.
Hadah rushed over and helped her lower him to the deck.
Adara caressed his face.
Zhad's wrinkled slim face came into view and he waved a sensor over him.
ZHAD
Did you have to exhaust your powers and burn your hands?
NIKKLO
I had to, father. I need light. Please take me to light.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Tsikakayu, I'm sending Ferex to help Tarek transport the rest of the ships.
Hadah pulled Nikklo onto his shoulder in a fireman's carry and rushed him up the stairs.
He stopped at the elevator and pressed the call button.
Zhad was beside him tending to Nikklo.
ZHAD
I'm reading multiple lacerations all over your body! What have you been doing?
NIKKLO
Fighting in Tauian form.
The doors opened.
Hadah rushed into the elevator.
HADAH
Deck 1 ship's stores external ramp.
ZHAD
Code red.
The elevator dropped undisturbed until it stopped and opened the doors.
Hadah rushed down the hall, through a hatch and hit a button.
A hatch cycled through and swept open.
EXT. KUMANI LANDING SITE, BELVAS - DAY
As the hatch opened, the ramp touched the ground.
Hadah ran down the ramp and settled Nikklo to the grass.
Nikklo arched his neck to look at the sun.
NIKKLO
That feels so good but I need more. I need an electrical charge.
ZHAD
You want to electrocute yourself?
NIKKLO
Give me a defibrillator!
ZHAD
Your heart doesn't need reset. I won't do it.
NIKKLO
Not a heart reset! Think of a shuttle's battery that's low and won't start. It needs infused with power to start. I need immediate power or I'll go into a coma. I'm feeling faint. Please, father. Help me.
ZHAD
Get a defibrillator and bring it to me quickly!
The stevedore nodded and ran back up the ramp.
Nikklo held his hand out to touch a light beam and pulled it into his body. He whimpered as his hand stung at the touch.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
After a painfully long few minutes, Adara rushed down the ramp with a mobile defibrillator in her hands.
ADARA
Why do you need a defibrillator? He's not in seizure!
Zhad took the machine.
ZHAD
We have to trust him this is what he needs.
Saili Nikklo changed to TAUIAN NIKKLO.
ZHAD
What do you want me to do?
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Follow the same procedures you always use.
Zhad charged up the machine and waited for it to be ready. Once the chime sounded, he picked up the paddles and rubbed them together.
ZHAD
I can't see you in your crystal form.
Nikklo took the aged hands and guided them to lay the paddles on his chest.
ZHAD
Okay, clear!
Zhad triggered the charge.
Nikklo's body shivered.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
Again!
ZHAD
Only twice and no more, Sannaro.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
That will do.
Zhad waited for the machine to recharge.
ZHAD
Clear!
Zhad triggered the charge.
Nikklo's body shivered again and greedily absorbed the energy.
NIKKLO (PSI V.O.)
That did it!
Nikklo returned to his Saili form and sighed.
ZHAD
Now for those hands.
Zhad pulled out his cellular regenerator.
Nikklo held his hands before his chest, palm up.
Zhad pointed the energy over his palms for a minute before he turned it off and returned the device to his pocket.
NIKKLO
Danu is going to flay me for this.
ZHAD
You're damned lucky I don't do it first. I did that full skin graft stitch by stitch on you and you burned and lacerated my work again.
NIKKLO
I love you, father.
ZHAD
If you weren't nearly fifty years old, I would ground you in your bedroom for a week with no video games!
HADAH
Thank you for saving our ship, Nik. I hope you're not going back to phase more ships?
NIKKLO
Nui, Ilanit is sending other Tauians to help Tarek with the remaining ships. I hope we already phased the ships most urgently in need of evacuation because I do need to rest. Danu threatened to tie me down with an I.V. if I exhausted myself.
ZHAD
I'll help him.
NIKKLO
I was doing my job, father.
HADAH
Zhad, Nikklo, enough father and son arguing, please. Zhad's as frustrated with you as you say Danu is but if the Kumani suffered another massive hit, we were going to explode. We're safe, thanks to Nikklosannaro even though he's so exhausted he can barely move. I'm grateful for the rescue.
NIKKLO
I sensed the Humans were pressing you harder because you burned Bristol and raised me as a warrior. They felt my childhood shipmates had to be punished because you were the first to harbor the Destroyer of Worlds. I will never find peace from my wretched past!
Adara took his head in her hands.
ADARA
Stop feeling sorry for yourself, young man. Your past is tragic and no one will argue that but you can't dwell on the past, only deal with now.
Nikklo sat up and pulled away from his foster mother.
NIKKLO
But they're motivated to attack me because of my past, Adara!
ADARA
Houk, they are. You're protecting us because you know we weren't to blame for your past. That is now. Worry about what to do next when that time comes. For now, you need to rest, so rest, Nikklosannaro!
NIKKLO
Houk, Mother.
Adara reached over and kissed Nikklo on the cheek.
Nikklo hugged Adara.
Adara hugged him and stroked his hair.
ADARA
That's my boy.
NIKKLO
I'm a father of two adult children, Mother.
ADARA
I know, Nik, but you'll always be my boy. Indulge an old woman.
Nikklo chuckled and pulled back from her.
A short distance, a shuttle with the three polyhedron clusters upward and downward landed on the grass. The hatch swept open. Toko and Danu walked over to them.
Danu dropped his field med pack down and squatted beside Nikklo.
DANU
Didn't I warn you not to overexert yourself?
NIKKLO
Houk, you did. I've already been lectured by Zhad.
DANU
What intervention have you administered, Zhad?
ZHAD
We moved him into direct sunlight and he insisted I shock him twice with the defibrillator. After the second shock, Nikklo responded with more vigor although he is still exhausted.
DANU
Did you almost slide into a comatose state, Nik?
NIKKLO
I did but the shocks helped me remain conscious.
DANU
That's another electrocution! I'm not going to allow you to phase again until Tarek can examine your Tauian form to assess if you can phase safely without harm to yourself!
ZHAD
He was healed of second degree burns to both his palms after he was shocked twice.
DANU
I told you not to allow your hands to be burned again. Nik, you're being a danger to yourself!
NIKKLO
I agree I shouldn't phase again until Tarek helps me. My shell was severely pitted by an explosive sand storm. He said he was surprised I could still phase because I hadn't scoured my shell. I don't know what he was talking about.
DANU
I don't either. I'm not Tauian but I'm keeping you under observation until you're given a clean bill of health from me for your Saili form and Tarek for your Tauian form. Is that understood?
NIKKLO
But Jahium wants to talk to me further about the violence!
DANU
That's fine, but you will slow the hell down and take a shuttle. Do we have an understanding, Nikklosannaro?
NIKKLO
I understand.
DANU
Finally! You're so damned stubborn!
Nikklo collapsed onto the grass in wracking sobs.
Danu hugged Nikklo's back.
DANU
I'm sorry for making you cry. Just let the stress out.
ZHAD
How long has he been so emotional?
Danu sat back up.
DANU
He's been having postpartum mood swings lately. His mostly male body seems to be in shock that he could become pregnant and is trying to regain balance to his body chemistry. We've given him mood stabilizers but he's been wounded so many times today, I'm worried about how he will respond to the mood stabilizers.
ADARA
I haven't even met my new granddaughter!
DANU
We can have her visit.
Nikklo felt a sudden weight on his shoulder and looked up. He gasped.
NIKKLO
Uh, Danu, I don't know how this happened, but Linea is draped over my shoulder in Tauian form! Please carefully pick her up so I can sit up?
Danu carefully placed his hands on Nikklo's arm.
DANU
I feel her.
Danu moved his hands to grip the tiny girl around her chest and picked her up.
Nikklo sat up and took her from Danu to cradle her.
NIKKLO
Lini, would you change to your Saili form so your Grandmother and Grandfather can see you?
The air shimmered over his arms and her skin turned a shiny yellow gold. Her slanted eyes were covered with her blue-black hair.
Nikklo carefully moved her hair to the side of her head.
NIKKLO
There you are, hala.
ADARA
Oh, she's adorable!
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Why they Gamma and Gampa and so is Tarek?
NIKKLO
When Grandpa Tarek couldn't be with me, Grandma Adara and Grandpa Zhad took care of me. I call them my Mom and Dad.
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Like when Cherna watches me when you go away?
NIKKLO
Well, it's kind of like that.
ZHAD
Is she talking telepathically?
DANU
She hasn't vocalized. We're scheduling her for a Laryngeal electromyography to see if her vegus nerve is affected.
ZHAD
Good idea.
NIKKLO
She's talking to me telepathically but because she's so young, she isn't always able to understand what I tell her so she asks me to explain. Lin, you really shouldn't phase to me. You should stay with Chali Cherna or Aunt Vara until I can come home.
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
You thought about me coming to you so I came to you.
NIKKLO
This time it was okay, but please don't do it again until I tell you that you can come to me.
ADARA
I can see how disciplining her would be difficult.
NIKKLO
She's really challenging my parenting skills.
ZHAD
I like how her presence is calming you. She is a cute little girl. She reminds me of Ambrika.
Linea grinned and waved her arms excitedly.
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
Ambri, sister?
ZHAD
What did I do to illicit that response?
NIKKLO
She got excited because you said she looked like Ambri sister.
ZHAD
Oh, I'm glad you liked the remark, Linea.
LINEA (PSI V.O.)
I like Ambri sister and Andu brother! Ambri sister makes funny noises at me!
HADAH
Well, it was nice to meet you, Linea. I need to begin organizing repair crews. I'm glad you're feeling better now, Nik.
Hadah stood up and returned to the ship.
Toko squatted down.
TOKO
So this is the little nugget you're always talking about?
NIKKLO
Houk, this is my daughter Rakulinea.
Linea grinned and waved her arms excitedly at Toko.
TOKO
You have a great older sister, Linea.
DANU
I hate to cut this visit short, but I think Nik needs to be returned to Euryanassa.
ZHAD
I concur.
Adara brushed her hand on Nikklo's cheek.
ADARA
I miss you around the Kumani, honey.
NIKKLO
I know, Mom. I'm not a child anymore. If both of you miss us so much, you can apply to change ships, if you want to, so you can be near us in your retirement.
ZHAD
We'll discuss it, son.
NIKKLO
I know Andu has wanted you to see the pieces he's sculpted and he's getting really close to Amaranta Daniels.
ADARA
Already? I thought Ambri was a bit young to seek mating with Jeremy.
NIKKLO
I started a precedent and now I'm paying for it. Jeremy has become a wonderful son-in-law. He calls me Dad.
DANU
Usually while he's healing his father-in-law!
Nikklo shoved Danu gently.
NIKKLO
Blaua!
Danu dropped to his buttocks.
DANU
Blaua'sai!
ADARA
You both are still so silly!
DANU
Stand up and get to the shuttle, scamp!
Nikklo stuck out his lip. He tried to stand but wobbled and dropped back to the ground.
Danu gently took Linea from his hands and offered his other arm to Nikklo.
Nikklo took Danu's forearm and pulled himself to his feet.
DANU
Toko, would you steady Nikklo until he's inside the shuttle?
Toko swung his arm around Nikklo's shoulders.
TOKO
Come on Nik. Damn, you're short!
NIKKLO
Nui fausa!
TOKO
Hey, don't insult the driver!
NIKKLO
Damn, you're tall! There, how's that?
DANU
I'll check your back when we get to the ship. You're probably murder on your back when you're jumping around during your rock music performances.
TOKO
Do you play instruments, Danu?
DANU
Just scalpels.
TOKO
Hell, I wouldn't want to practice that kind of precision you need with a scalpel.
DANU
I agree it takes a lot of concentration. I think we need to stop picking on Nik. Linea is acting like she already wants to try to take me to the mats. Her little fists are bruising my arm.
TOKO
Already feisty at two months.
INT. SHUTTLE
They entered the shuttle.
Danu sat down with Linea.
Toko helped Nikklo to sit beside Danu then went up to the flight controls.
Shortly, they rose off the ground.
Nikklo turned to look out the window behind him and saw the Kumani's silver three kilometer long hull was blackened in many areas. The parts of the skin was buckled and even breached.
NIKKLO
Shit, that's a lot of damage! Both our parents were on that ship, Danu!
DANU
I know they were.
NIKKLO
I had to save them.
DANU
I know but I don't want to loose you too.
NIKKLO
I'm a warrior.
DANU
I know you are but you have my heart as much as your sister does! I would loose a part of myself if you died. Why can't you understand that?
NIKKLO
I do understand but I can't stop doing my job because people will miss me when I'm finally vaporized. The ether hasn't claimed me yet. I'm too restless to keep myself from flying on light waves.
DANU
You're a damned adrenaline junky, Nikklosannaro!
NIKKLO
I know I am. I'm sorry that hurts you.
Shortly, the shuttle landed on the Euryanassa.
INT. LANDING BAY, EURYANASSA
DANU
Fa'arata for taking me, Toko.
TOKO
Ni'chawei, Nik owes me that song. He can't sing it if he's dead.
NIKKLO
You're not letting me off now that I've shown you the lyrics.
TOKO
Nope, you started it, you have to sing it.
Nikklo walked slowly beside Danu through the halls to the elevator.
DANU
You're walking very stiffly.
Nikklo stopped and lifted his shirt a little.
Danu bent down to look closely.
DANU
Shit, you have sand embedded lacerations all over your stomach! What the hell did you do?
Nikklo pulled his shirt down and walked on.
DANU
Nikklo, talk to me.
NIKKLO
I blew up a damned shuttle that was one minute away from colliding with me. I inverted the atomic structure, blew it into a cloud of sand and it collided with me. I think sand is more survivable than a whole shuttle.
DANU
I agree but that is going to be very messy to clean.
NIKKLO
Tell me about it. At least I'm here for you to clean the cuts, houk?
DANU
Houk. If that shuttle would've collided with your Tauian body, what would have happened?
NIKKLO
I would have been shattered into a million crystal shards. My remains may have breached the shuttle and, possibly, exploded it but my hadron pulsar core would have been exposed and the extreme gravity I generate would've drastically changed the space scape for parsecs.
DANU
Okay, blowing the shuttle into sand caused the least damage.
NIKKLO
I had to. Now I'm sorry you'll have to clean it up.
DANU
No wonder you collapsed on the Kumani! You're seriously wounded!
They called the elevator and took it up to the medical suite.
INT. HOSPITAL, EURYANASSA - CONTINUOUS
DANU
Jeremy, I need you to help me treat Nik, stat.
JEREMY
On my way.
Danu led Nikklo to a treatment room.
Nikklo went to the table and laid down.
NIKKLO
Owe, I don't think an inch of me isn't ripped!
Jeremy rushed in.
JEREMY
I'm here, Danu.
Danu turned around and handed him a pair of medical scissors.
DANU
Let's cut this mess off him. He's got lacerations all over his body, embedded with sand.
JEREMY
Ouch.
They set to work with the scissors until Nikklo was naked on the table.
Nikklo shivered.
Danu pulled out a blanket and covered him.
NIKKLO
Fa'arata.
DANU
Ni'chawei, now I'll go get a few bottles of cerlacticine and sponges. Jere, you check him for more injuries. I'll be back soon.
Jeremy nodded and hovered his hands over Nikklo's body.
JEREMY
You're back again. Danu's annoyed.
NIKKLO
I know he is.
JEREMY
Your electrolytes are low again. I sense you've recently been given two moderate charges of electricity.
NIKKLO
I almost passed out after I phased the Kumani twice, to Belvas and then landed the ship on Belvas. It was too much for me to do after I got scoured with sand. Zhad shocked me with a defibrillator at my request to keep me from going comatose from the dangerously low electrical energy in my core.
JEREMY
That was a big risk, Dad.
NIKKLO
I know but if Kumani was hit with another large blast, it was going to explode. I couldn't allow that.
JEREMY
I know you have many people on that ship you still love. I understand your need. You're just very hurt.
NIKKLO
I know.
JEREMY
I'm not sensing any more damage beyond your severely lacerated skin and low electrolytes.
Danu gathered the supplies.
Jeremy turned to the medical cabinet, pushed the I.V. feed Nikklo's forearm muscle, plugged in an I.V. and pushed a pain reliever syringe into the feed.
They cleaned Nikklo's skin then built the healing tent over Nikklo.
Nikklo slipped into sleep.
FADE OUT.
THE END.