==========================================================================
                              12 - MIND'S EYE
                                 2047 Team
==========================================================================
   Timeline: SeaQuest 2047
   Author's E-Mail: schiller@mgl.ca (E-Mail contact)
==========================================================================


seaQuest 2047
"Mind's Eye"
Story by Kristy Henscheid & Rachel Brody
Script by Kristy Henscheid
Wednesday, April 9, 1997
Publication Draft

Based on "seaQuest DSV" and "seaQuest 2032"


=========================  PART 0 - TEASER ===============================


TEASER

OPEN ON EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_--CGI

The _seaQuest_ is moving steadily through the water.

CUT TO CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS

Captain Lucas Wolenczak is reading in his quarters. A buzz from the
com unit distracts him from his book, and he reaches across the desk
to flip the com on.

WOLENCZAK
(giving the com only half his attention)
Wolenczak.

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Sir, UEO Headquarters calling for you.

WOLENCZAK
(closing the book reluctantly)
Thank you, Ensign. Put it through.

He sets the book aside and looks up at the screen. Secretary General
Katherine Hitchcock comes on, a reluctant bearer of bad news.

WOLENCZAK
(curious)
What's up, Katie?

HITCHCOCK
(coming right to the point)
President Ross has agreed to a negotiation on Carolina's sea borders.

WOLENCZAK
(apathetic)
Swell.
(beat)
Why are you telling me?

HITCHCOCK
(uncomfortably)
I want you to be the UEO's representative.

WOLENCZAK
("you're not serious" laugh)
Katie. Do I look like a diplomat?
(beat)
I'm definitely a bad choice.

Hitchcock rubs the bridge of her nose wearily.

HITCHCOCK
(knowing this was coming)
Look, Lucas, we need someone high-profile. You _are_ captain of
_seaQuest_.

WOLENCZAK
(almost whining)
But I'm not a negotiator, Katie. You've got a whole department of
foreign affairs people. Use them.

HITCHCOCK
You don't need to worry about that. I'm sending you a team from
Pearl. They'll be the trained negotiators.
(beat)
You'll be the prestige.

Wolenczak thinks about that for a moment, then a light comes on.

WOLENCZAK
(musing)
The UEO's ESP Research Center is based in...
(trails off, shakes head vigorously)
No. Oh, no. Not them.

He looks at Hitchcock for a moment, and one can see him replaying his
first run-in with Savannah Rossovich from "Treasures of the Mind,"
where she caught him fantasizing about...the current Secretary
General, Katherine Hitchcock. He gulps and shakes his head again.

WOLENCZAK
I--no. Not on my boat. Katie, we can--

HITCHCOCK
(cutting him off)
Lucas...

WOLENCZAK
(cutting her off)
Don't tell me you've forgotten how much trouble Captain Bridger had
with them in Alexandria.

It's clear he's not about to forget about Savannah and the others,
either.

HITCHCOCK
(now she's exasperated too)
That was different, Lucas, and you know it.

WOLENCZAK
(nods)
Damn right it's different--I'm not Captain Bridger!
(beat)
I don't have his abilities, and I _don't_ want them poking around in
my head!

Hitchcock eyes him for a long moment, then shakes her head.

HITCHCOCK
(losing her patience)
You're being ridiculous. They _have_ ethics, Lucas.

WOLENCZAK
(nodding but clearly unconvinced)
Oh yeah, they have ethics...
(beat, shakes head)
_Doctor Smith_ had ethics, Katie. The team from the ESP Center was
probing our minds the whole time!

Hitchcock raises an eyebrow.

HITCHCOCK
And how would you know?

WOLENCZAK
(uneasily)
Because Savannah...she...well...

Hitchcock is getting amused.

HITCHCOCK
(nods, humored)
Oh, really...And what did she find out that has you so embarrassed?

WOLENCZAK
(immediately, defensively)
I'm not embarrassed!

HITCHCOCK
(unconvinced)
Lucas, your face is beet red. You're embarrassed.

There's a silent moment, then Hitchcock continues, dropping the
subject of Wolenczak's embarrassment for now.

HITCHCOCK
(seriously)
Don't make me pull rank on you, Captain. I need this negotiation to
go through. Some of this _can_ be solved without bloodshed.
(beat)
Just trust their judgment.

For the shortest of instants, Wolenczak looks like he might refuse.
Then he realizes he's been beaten.

WOLENCZAK
(sullenly)
I trust I'll be receiving your instructions soon?

HITCHCOCK
(smiles, relieved)
Thank you. You will be hearing our detailed position and your formal
orders from Lieutenant Tendrament as soon as he can dial you up. The
conference is in Cape Newbern in the old UEO Assembly Hall. Oh--and
the team from Pearl is already on its way.

She signs off before Wolenczak can add any other protests. He sighs
at the blank screen.

WOLENCZAK
(cynical)
Great.

CUT TO LAUNCH BAY

The intercom is announcing the shuttle's arrival in Docking Bay Two.
Wolenczak waits at the lock along with Lieutenant Commander Jessie
Matthews. She's visibly nervous.

WOLENCZAK
Relax, Commander.

MATTHEWS
(takes a deep breath; hands behind back)
Sorry, Sir. It's just that--

WOLENCZAK
(covers his own nervousness well)
I know, you're worried about them reading your mind. Don't worry,
parapsychologists have a strict code of ethics.

Obviously, he's trying to convince himself of this.

MATTHEWS
I hope so, Sir.

Wolenczak takes an extra step forward as the airlock cycles open to
reveal the couple standing there. The young man and woman are faintly
Hispanic, and look very similar. They should; Carlos and Julia are
twins.

WOLENCZAK
(holding out his hand)
Welcome to _seaQuest_. I'm Captain Lucas Wolenczak.
(beat, indicates Matthews)
My XO, Lieutenant Commander Jessie Matthews.

He indicates her; they shake hands all round.

CARLOS
(businesslike; puts them at ease)
It's a pleasure, Captain. We've heard so many things about you.
(beat)
I'm Carlos Ortiz.
(beat, indicating Julia)
This is my twin sister, Julia.

Wolenczak does a double take, blinking hard.

WOLENCZAK
Ortiz?

JULIA
That's correct, Sir. I believe you knew our uncle, Miguel.

Matthews is confused; Carlos and Julia, casual.

CARLOS
(exchanges a look with his sister)
Captain, obviously we have a lot of things to discuss. Maybe we
should go someplace a little more private?

WOLENCZAK
(relieved)
Of course. Right this way.

CUT TO WARDROOM

Wolenczak and Matthews are at the table with Carlos and Julia.

JULIA
(with quiet enthusiasm)
You must have been present at the battle where our uncle was killed.

WOLENCZAK
(treading softly; it's classified and he doesn't know how much they've
been told)
Yeah. He was...a great guy.

CARLOS
We were still pretty young when it happened.

JULIA
But we hear so much from Mom about her "brother Miguel who was killed
in action aboard the _seaQuest_."

CARLOS
Your ship is really very famous, Captain.

Wolenczak looks like he's about to correct them, "It's a boat," but
obviously thinks better of it. Something else dawns on him.

WOLENCZAK
(confused)
Wait--you said your _mother_ was Miguel's sister?
(beat)
Then how--

CARLOS
(cutting him off, explaining)
Mom kept her maiden name.
(beat, embarrassed)
She never did marry.

WOLENCZAK
(he's overstepped the mark a bit)
Oh.

JULIA
(continuing, letting that subject drop)
It must have been awful, to get caught in a minor quarrel and have
your crewmates die that way.

"So that's what UEO told you guys?  Jerks," Wolenczak's expression
says. Matthews, who's been pretty quiet, has no reaction.

WOLENCZAK
(lamely)
It was...a time, all right.

Julia smiles wryly, and continues his unspoken train of thought,
almost uncannily.

JULIA
Of course, who knows if our family was even told the real story at
all.

CARLOS
(resigned)
It will all be classified until we're long gone.

The twins finish each other's thoughts constantly. It is clear that
they hold much psychic power and are closely linked, yet they don't
exactly project it. They're not reading anyone's mind.

WOLENCZAK
(wanting to help)
Well...they got pretty close to the truth.

The com buzzes. Wolenczak answers it.

WOLENCZAK
(pushing com button)
Yes?

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Sir, there's a Lieutenant Tendrament calling for you from the
Secretary General's office.

WOLENCZAK
(sighs)
Put him through, Ensign.
(stands, to screen)
You have information for me, Lieutenant?

TENDRAMENT
Yes, Captain. As you know, the conference will be held on Carolinan
territory in Cape Newbern.

WOLENCZAK
(grimacing)
Why in the world did we consent to have this on enemy territory?

TENDRAMENT
(explaining)
It was a condition of even _having_ these negotiations, Captain.
(beat)
As such we will be providing you with a full military police escort--

Wolenczak can't believe what he just heard.

WOLENCZAK
(cutting Tendrament off)
Wait just a minute. I do have my own security section here,
Lieutenant. My chief of security, Lieutenant J.G. Riller, is
perfectly capable of protecting us in the event--

TENDRAMENT
( pointedly, interrupting)
In that event, Captain Wolenczak, UEO will be providing you with
security.
(beat)
Doctor Curcio has informed us of Lieutenant Riller's present...medical 
difficulties.

Wolenczak's face darkens. Curcio's becoming a real pain real fast.
Wolenczak sets both hands on the table, leaning forward over it.

WOLENCZAK
(defensive)
Lieutenant Riller's medical difficulties have no impact on his ability
to perform his duty.
(beat)
It's not a current problem, and he's been clean for months.

TENDRAMENT
(stonewalling)
Nonetheless, Captain, Riller will not be included in this mission.

"Oh, so now it's a mission, huh?"  Wolenczak sees he's getting no
further on this.

WOLENCZAK
(with exaggerated patience)
All right, Lieutenant. Tell me about the conference itself. What am
I going to get out of the Carolinans?

MATTHEWS
(mutters)
Some torpedoes, maybe.

TENDRAMENT
(ignoring her)
President Ross called this meeting to talk about the sea borders that
UEO has disputed. Until now, she has largely abandoned the diplomatic
approach, so we're unsure what she really wants.
(beat, non-apologetic)
It's anybody's guess, Captain.

WOLENCZAK
Great. Anything else you can tell me?

TENDRAMENT
(glances nervously at Carlos and Julia)
Sir, I realize that Secretary Hitchcock has sent you one of
our--uh--specialized negotiation teams.
(beat, meaningfully)
I trust I need not warn you to be careful with them.

Carlos and Julia exchange a look.

JULIA
Prejudice against Talents has always run thick.

CARLOS
Although we'll do our best to be invisible.

Carlos and Julia are obviously used to this.

WOLENCZAK
I was with Doctor Wendy Smith, back when the psychics--

JULIA
(clears throat, interrupts)
It's "Talents," now, Captain.
(beat)
If you don't mind.

Wolenczak looks a tad embarrassed at his "mess-up", even though it
wasn't really his fault.

WOLENCZAK
(shakes head)
Not at all.
(beat, picks up where he left off)
--Back when the Talents were locked away.
(beat, reorienting)
I'll be careful, Lieutenant.

TENDRAMENT
I'm sending over some position papers prepared by my office, as well
as a list of UEO's objectives. Your communications officer should be
downloading them now.
(beat)
The conference begins in six hours.
(beat)
Good luck, Captain.

Tendrament cuts the connection. Wolenczak turns to Matthews.

WOLENCZAK
Commander, get with Ensign Trueman on those documents.

MATTHEWS
Right away, Sir.

Matthews exits briskly. Wolenczak focuses his attention on Carlos and
Julia.

WOLENCZAK
Now. It's time to make our game plan.
(beat, honestly)
I sure hope you two know more about this than I do.

He looks embarrassed as we...

FADE TO OPENING CREDITS

END TEASER


===========================  PART 1  =====================================


ACT ONE

OPEN ON MEDBAY

Doctor Mark Curcio is doing doctorthings, filling out paperwork,
testing samples, etc. A few assorted med techs go in and out during
the scene.

CURCIO
(to tech)
Pull the patient's history and see what type of blood work she's had.

The med tech nods and leaves just as Wolenczak enters. The captain
practically has steam coming out of his ears, and he doesn't wait for
Curcio to acknowledge his presence.

WOLENCZAK
(fuming)
Who the hell gave you the authority to release medical information
about the crew without consulting me?!

Curcio gives him an icy look. He's not going to allow Wolenczak the
satisfaction of a flat-out argument.

CURCIO
(coolly, still scanning the chart in his hands)
I'm not sure I understand what you mean, Captain.

Wolenczak makes a visible effort to suppress his temper. It doesn't
succeed. He speaks slowly, trying to control himself.

WOLENCZAK
Doctor Curcio, you've heard, I'm sure, of doctor-patient
confidentiality.
(beat)
I'm pretty damn sure that Lieutenant Riller did _not_ ask you to
tell UEO about his past drug problem.
(beat)
Nor did I.

CURCIO
("oh, _that_")
I don't see what the big deal is, Sir. It's--

WOLENCZAK
(cutting him off angrily)
The big deal, _Doctor_, is that it's information you've not been
empowered to distribute. Riller is making a conscious effort to
overcome his addiction, and I'm willing to give him the benefit of the
doubt for that.
(beat)
Riller deserves a second chance.

CURCIO
It's only a fact, Captain, and I felt it was one UEO needed to know
about the chief of security aboard its flagship.

WOLENCZAK
(coldly)
What you _feel_ has nothing to do with it.
(beat)
I hope I will not need to have this discussion with you again.

Curcio bows his head, but it isn't in submission. Wolenczak senses
that's about all he's going to get out of the doctor, and he storms
out.

CUT TO CREW'S MESS

Ensign Tom Reede, Ensign Rebecca Trueman, Lieutenant J.G. Justin
Riller, and CPO Sara Percell are at mess. They enter the scene with
trays of food, and move for their normal table. Trueman sits first.
Riller starts to sit next to her but Reede beats him to it. Riller
gives Reede a dirty look, which he ignores. Percell, watching the
exchange, stifles a giggle; Trueman doesn't notice.

REEDE
(flirting shamelessly)
You know, Becca, your hair looks really great today.

A look of exasperation briefly crosses Trueman's face. How many times
is she going to have to beat this guy off before he'll learn?

TRUEMAN
(neutrally)
Thanks...
(beat)
I see yours is the usual mop.

Reede reflexively runs a hand over his hair, smoothing it.

REEDE
(defensively)
Hey...I combed it.

PERCELL
(teasing, imitating Reede)
...Just now, with my fingers.

Reede's look tells Percell she's not helping. Trueman smiles
slightly.

TRUEMAN
If you're trying to get me to wash your socks again, Tom, forget it.
(beat)
They were disgusting.

Reede gets an innocent look, which is eclipsed by a new one as he
spies a new person in the door of the mess hall. Julia comes in
alone, looks around, then moves for the coffee machine. Reede gets a
crafty look, and gets up.

PERCELL
(whispering to Trueman as Reede leaves)
Aww, look, he's going to try to make you jealous.

TRUEMAN
(wryly)
Jealous of what?

At the coffee machine, Julia has paused, looking for something. Reede
snags a mug from a shelf on his way to her.

REEDE
(gallantly)
Looking for one of these?

He hold out the mug to her.

JULIA
(embarrassed but grateful)
Oh...Thank you.

She takes the mug and fills it, obviously dismissing the grinning
ensign next to her. He's not about to let it go at that.

REEDE
(offhandedly)
So...
(beat)
How long are you going to be on _seaQuest_?

JULIA
(absently, as she surveys the food choices)
Just long enough to take care of this conference with the Carolinans.

Reede casts a look back over his shoulder to see if Trueman's jealous
yet. She's talking with Percell; Riller, nearby, is sulking.

REEDE
(loudly, wanting to be overheard)
Well, if you ever need anything while you're on board, I'd be more
than happy to show you around.

JULIA
(pretty sure she won't be calling upon his services)
Uh...thanks.
(beat)
I'll have to keep that in mind.

Reede shoots Trueman another look. She's not the least bit concerned.
Julia realizes _why_ he's hitting on her.

REEDE
(persisting)
We've got some great movies on disc in the officer's lounge.

Julia's tone of voice clearly says she wishes Reede would leave her
alone.

JULIA
(deadpan)
Really.

REEDE
Maybe we could watch one later. I--

He's cut off by Carlos.

CARLOS
(O.S.)
Julia!  There you are!

As Carlos enters the scene, Julia turns to him with a "thank God
you're finally here" smile which Reede, behind her, doesn't see. She
kisses her brother on the cheek.

CARLOS
It's time to go.

Reede watches them leave, a dumbfounded look on his face. Trueman
approaches the coffee machine and fills her cup, then looks after the
twins with him.

TRUEMAN
(sarcastically)
You know...
(she takes a sip of her coffee)
I don't think you were coming on strong enough.

Reede rolls his eyes, exasperated.

CUT TO CORRIDOR

Carlos and Julia are walking away from the Crew's Mess.

JULIA
It took you long enough to show up.
(beat)
I didn't think I'd ever get him off me.

CARLOS
I'm sorry...it's a big ship.

JULIA
(sarcastically, shooting him a _look_)
Perhaps I didn't make the urgency of the matter clear.

CARLOS
(matter-of-factly)
No...you were loud enough for a psi-null to pick up.

JULIA
(dissing Reede, but glad it's over)
Well, evidently that sailor wasn't too receptive.

CUT TO LAUNCH BAY

Wolenczak and Riller are waiting at the airlock. Both look pretty
unhappy, Riller more so than the captain.

RILLER
Pardon me for saying so, Sir, but--
(beat, spitting it out)
This stinks.

WOLENCZAK
(placating)
I know, just take it easy, okay? Even I have to follow orders, and
this wasn't my choice.
(beat)
Just cooperate with him.

RILLER
(sullenly)
Yes, Sir.

The airlock cycles open, and the military police lieutenant at the top
of the stairs salutes stiffly.

LIEUTENANT
(officially)
Permission to come aboard, Captain.

Wolenczak returns the salute almost sullenly. He doesn't want to let
the MP on board, but he doesn't really have a choice in the matter.

WOLENCZAK
(trying to sound neutral)
At ease, soldier. Permission granted.

The lieutenant relaxes only slightly, and comes down the stairs. In
the background, his team disembarks and unloads their gear.

WOLENCZAK
(eager to get away)
Lieutenant J.G. Justin Riller is _seaQuest_'s chief of security; you
can coordinate with him.

LIEUTENANT
(briskly)
We'll get right on with the preparations, Sir.

Riller gives him a sudden, sharp, angry look.

WOLENCZAK
(already turning to leave)
Carry on.

Riller exchanges wary looks with the MP as Wolenczak leaves. They can
tell they're going to tread on each other's ground, and are already
calculating against one another.

RILLER
(voice nearly dripping with venom)
And what _preparations_ would those be?

The lieutenant looks around the room, back stiff.

LIEUTENANT
(officious)
_seaQuest_ will be docked in enemy territory. I'm here to do the
utmost to maintain security during the conference. Certain
preparations will be necessary...
(beat, looking around)
Starting, I think, with this launch bay.

Riller's fists are clenched at his sides. He looks like he's about to
swing them at the MP.

RILLER
(through clenched teeth)
In case you hadn't noticed, _Sir_, there _are_ guards posted here.
Are you suggesting that security aboard _seaQuest_ is lax?

LIEUTENANT
(flatly)
That remains to be seen, Mister Riller.

Riller's practically rolling up his sleeves.

RILLER
(forcing himself to be civil)
Then let's get started.

CUT TO _SEAQUEST_ BRIDGE

Matthews has the conn. Reede's at helm. An extra is at
communications, and Percell's at sensors.

MATTHEWS
Mister Reede, proceed at heading two-seven-zero. Sensors, report all
contacts.

REEDE
(businesslike)
Proceed at heading two-seven-zero, aye. ETA at Cape Newbern, four
hours.

Matthews looks over to Percell, expecting her to acknowledge the order
as Reede did, but she's not even watching her console. Her eyes are
riveted on the main viewscreen and the navigation map of Florida
there.

MATTHEWS
(rebuking)
Chief Percell.

Percell looks up with a start, snapping out of it.

MATTHEWS
Report all contacts, Chief.

PERCELL
(flushing)
Report all contacts, aye, Sir.
(beat)
Um, there's a small pod of whales moving away at one-four-zero, and a
couple of, uh, fishing trawlers on the surface.

Percell shifts in her chair uneasily as she trails off and returns her
gaze to Florida. Matthews gives her an appraising look, then moves
over to her station. Next shots are tight, indicating that their
conversation is private.

MATTHEWS
(quietly)
I think you need to be relieved of duty, Chief.

PERCELL
(protesting)
Commander, I--

MATTHEWS
(cutting her off)
That's an order, Percell. You've been fidgety ever since you found
out we were going to Cape Newbern, and it's affecting your work.

PERCELL
(rather meekly)
I can't help it. That place spooks me.

MATTHEWS
(grins, trying to make her feel better)
Well, we just wouldn't want to run into a reef we didn't see or
something.
(beat, sincerely)
I mean it, Sara. This is too much for you right now. I'm putting
you on leave until we're out of here. Now go.

Percell looks as if she'd like to argue, but she realizes that this is
because Matthews is her friend, not her enemy. She goes, with a last
look back at the Bridge before the MagLev doors open.

CUT TO EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_ AND DOCKING PORT--CGI

The _seaQuest_ is docking in its old berth.
Caption reads:
"_seaQuest_ Berth"
"Cape Newbern"
"Carolinan Confederation"

MATTHEWS
(V.O.)
Sir, we're almost finished docking. The Carolinan delegation is on
its way and will meet you in a few minutes.

WOLENCZAK
(V.O.)
Thank you, Commander. Please ask Carlos and Julia to meet me at the
airlock.

CUT TO AIRLOCK

Wolenczak waits by the airlock for the rest of his group to show up.
He's in his dress uniform, ready for business. Carlos and Julia walk
in. Wolenczak takes a deep breath, and Julia gives him a sideways
look.

JULIA
Is everything okay, Sir?

WOLENCZAK
(weakly)
Oh, just...
(takes another deep breath)
Getting ready to face the enemy.

CARLOS
(repeating his words thoughtfully)
The enemy?

JULIA
Don't worry about it, Sir.

WOLENCZAK
(laughs nervously)
That's easy for you to say.

The twins exchange a look. The MP lieutenant shows up, looking around
the bay as if he's appraising the security, etc.

LIEUTENANT
We can go now.

Wolenczak gives him a _look_; obviously the lieutenant has just
overstepped his bounds. He says nothing, however, and they head for
the airlock.

CUT TO CONFERENCE BUILDING MAIN HALL

Wolenczak, Julia, and Carlos get out of their car (all dolled up with
official UEO symbols) with their MP team. They're immediately swamped
by news people. The MPs do their best to keep the media back so the
three can at least breathe.

REPORTER #1
(his shouted question is most discernable above the din)
Captain Wolenczak, what do you say to reports that Secretary General
Hitchcock is preparing the UEO for war at all costs?

WOLENCZAK
(fending him off)
The UEO is only interested in _peace_ at all costs.

REPORTER #2
(right in Wolenczak's face)
But isn't it true that _seaQuest_ is behind the lines poised to steal
territory out from under the Confederation's nose?

Wolenczak gives her a skeptical look. That one's far-fetched.

WOLENCZAK
(with exaggerated patience)
We're simply here to find borders that are satisfactory to both
parties. We're not interested in territorial conquest.

That response was pretty good, and Wolenczak's pleased with himself.
He's wondering what crazy accusation will come next when his thoughts
are interrupted by someone at the edge of the crowd.

CAMERAMAN
(yelling)
It's President Ross!

A little farther down, another car has pulled up, this one decorated
with symbols for Carolinan Confederation. Carolinan President Eileen
Ross gets out with Gary DeLano and Jason Hunter. The media flocks to
interview Ross. The UEO team turns to watch, and immediately
Wolenczak's gaze is locked on Hunter.

WOLENCZAK
(under his breath, uneasy, almost bitter)
Hunter...

The twins exchange uneasy glances. Wolenczak sees them out of the
corner of his eye.

WOLENCZAK
What's wrong?

Carlos shakes his head.

CARLOS
(hurriedly)
Nothing, Captain.

Wolenczak's look is skeptical--he can tell Carlos isn't telling him
everything. The twins' gazes remain on DeLano.

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT ONE


===========================  PART 2  =====================================


ACT TWO

OPEN ON EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_ AND BERTH--CGI

_seaQuest_ is docked at Cape Newbern.

CUT TO PERCELL'S QUARTERS

Percell is playing computer games, totally absorbed in the action
on her screen. There's a knock at the door, and Curcio barges in
without being acknowledged.

PERCELL
(dryly, eyes on her screen)
That kind of defeats the purpose of knocking, doesn't it?

CURCIO
(ignoring her question)
Chief, I want you to go on leave. Get off this boat.
(beat)
_Now_.

Percell spins around in her chair, giving Curcio an incredulous look.
The game continues behind her, things crashing, etc.

PERCELL
(horrified)
Oh, no. I am _not_ going there. This is _Cape Newbern_, in case
you haven't noticed.

CURCIO
And your point is...

PERCELL
(wide-eyed)
You must have seen my file by now, Doctor. I'm not going.

CURCIO
(stonewalling)
It's an order, Chief. You're going on leave.

Percell's eyes are still wide as he stares her down. She can't
believe he'd make her do this. Finally, reluctantly, she gets up.

CUT TO LAUNCH BAY

Percell, in civilian clothes, walks slowly into launch bay. Her
measured pace makes it clear she doesn't want to be here. She
has retreated into herself, accepting the inevitable--she's been
ordered upworld. Unsteadily, she moves for the berth airlock,
her face set. There are twice as many guards as usual stationed
in the room--half _seaQuest_ security, half UEO security. One
of the UEO guards near the airlock notices Percell, and moves
to intercept her.

UEO GUARD #1
(suspiciously)
Going somewhere?

Percell looks up at him with a start, a little surprised that the
guard has stopped her. She straightens a little.

PERCELL
(almost sure of herself)
I'm on leave, soldier.
(beat, more firmly)
Doctor's orders.

GUARD #1
(frowning slightly)
You've been cleared?

PERCELL
(rolling her eyes)
Of _course_ I've been cleared.

The guard still looks doubtful, and he shoots a look and a
nod across the airlock at his comrade, who briskly takes
out a PAL and dials a number.

CURCIO
(over comm)
Doctor Curcio.

GUARD #2
Doctor, we have a Miz...

He trails off, looking at Percell and waiting for her to supply a name.

PERCELL
(impatiently)
Percell. Chief Petty Officer Percell.

GUARD #2
(continuing)
...CPO Percell here who says she's on leave on your direct order.
(beat)
Can you confirm this?

CURCIO
(over com, intolerant)
Yes, I gave Chief Percell the order to go on leave.
(beat)
Is there a problem?

GUARD #2
No, Sir, not any more.
(switching the PAL off, glancing at #1)
Contact the XO?

GUARD #1
(contemplating)
No, it's probably been okayed through her if the CMO issued
the order.
(beat, looking at Percell)
Were you planning on going into a hostile port alone, Chief?

These over-cautious guards are really getting on Percell's
nerves. She doesn't particularly _want_ to go upworld, yet
this is getting ridiculous.

PERCELL
(ignoring his question)
Can I go now?

The first guard glances at his comrade, then back at Percell.

GUARD #1
Wait just a moment. I think we'd better send someone with you.

CUT TO CAPE NEWBERN, OUTSIDE CONFERENCE

Percell is wandering aimlessly, a kind of scared look on her face.
Her eyes dart around, and we get the feeling she's making
sure she doesn't see something or someone she doesn't want to
see. She's being followed by a plainclothes security officer, who's
conspicuously blending in, like a secret service agent. Percell
takes no notice of him. She finds a bar and enters.

CUT TO INTERIOR BAR

This bar is no different from a million other bars in a thousand other 
cities. Percell is seated at the bar. She drinks her first drink quickly 
and orders another one.

BARTENDER
(lazily)
You sure you want another one?

PERCELL
(candid)
Look, like I told you with the first one, I want something strong
and nasty so I can get drunk quickly.
(beat)
Memory isn't a real high priority at the moment.

BARTENDER
Something you don't want to remember?

PERCELL
(with a sour look)
You could say that.

The bartender settles into the classic bartender mode--"Tell
me all your troubles, and while you're at it, buy drinks from
me."  He begins to mix her another drink, taking his time about it.

BARTENDER
(helpfully)
Hey, I've always said, there are more guys out there.

Percell gives him a perplexed look. He continues.

BARTENDER
The important thing is that you move on, you open yourself up to new 
people.

PERCELL
(seeing what he's getting at)
Oh, no. It's...not a guy.
(beat, resentfully)
Not a guy like _that_, anyway.

BARTENDER
(raises an eyebrow)
Not a relationship?

Percell shakes her head. The bartender thinks about that for
a moment as he shakes up her drink.

BARTENDER
(thoughtfully)
So it's a guy, but not a failed relationship...
(beat, looks at her)
Something with your dad?

They're getting more farfetched, Percell sees. She wishes he
would leave it alone.

PERCELL
(indignantly)
No, it's not about my _dad_. I don't want to talk about
it, okay?
(beat, softer)
Like I said, it's not particularly something I want to be thinking
about right now.

Finally the bartender sees she's not going to regale him with a story, 
and gives up.

BARTENDER
("not my problem")
'Kay.

He sets the drink in front of her, and turns away. A strange
guy sits at the barstool next to Percell as she is served. He watches
her down the drink in one gulp with a grimace.

GUY
(offhandedly)
You know, if you hate it so much, you shouldn't drink it.

Percell is _not_ in the mood to be picked up by some guy off the
street, and ignores him.

GUY
(persisting)
I could buy you something else.
(beat)
Something a little more...palatable.

He gestures to the bartender. Percell turns to the guy with a
"get lost" look.

PERCELL
(irritably)
Look, you've got virtually no chance with me, so you can save it,
okay?

GUY
(shooting her look right back)
Hey, I'm just waiting until the pretty women show up.

Percell's eyes narrow, but her sharp retort is cut off by a
newcomer on the scene.

NEW VOICE
(off-camera)
Hey, buddy, get lost, okay?

The guy glances over his shoulder at this newcomer, then gets
up and walks off disgustedly. Percell turns to him, relieved--
until she sees who it is.

HUNTER
(neutrally)
Hi, Sara.
(beat, more arrogant)
You were about to thank me?

Percell gives him an angry look. She's not about to give him
the satisfaction.

PERCELL
(irate)
Go to hell.

HUNTER
(affronted)
Hey, Sara, I--

PERCELL
(more forcefully, cutting him off)
Just leave me alone.

She stands and stalks out.

CUT TO _SEAQUEST_ BRIDGE

Camera opens on Lieutenant Commander Greg Callan in his
little niche of the bridge. He's doing his routine engineer stuff,
but frowns when the computer beeps at him. He grabs a
SEAPOC lying nearby and quickly types something in. It beeps
too. Dropping the useless SEAPOC, he goes back to the computer,
hitting keys a little harder than normal. Matthews hears him over
the background bridge noises.

MATTHEWS
(not looking up)
Having a little trouble back there, Commander Callan?

CALLAN
(frowns again)
There are some weird bugs acting up in the sensors, Commander.
(shrugs)
Probably another one of those little problems compliments of Hunter.

Matthews whirls and gives him a _look_. She's had enough.

MATTHEWS
(irritated)
Hunter's becoming our multi-purpose excuse for _everything_, isn't he?
(beat)
I'm sick of it.

Matthews marches over to Callan, who's not quite cowering.

MATTHEWS
(fuming)
Commander, undoubtedly we have not discovered every bug yet.
However, there _are_ other solutions. This is pitiful behavior
for the so-called "finest in the fleet."
(beat)
Now, I suggest you get on task and fix whatever the problem is!

Callan bends industriously over his computer as Matthews
whirls to look at the rest of the bridge crew.

MATTHEWS
(delivering an ultimatum)
As for the rest of you...
(her gaze sweeps them)
The next person who mentions "Hunter" and "problem" in the
same sentence is gonna get slammed in the brig for attempting to
lower morale, understood?!

Heads all around the bridge nod, wide-eyed.

CUT TO CAPE NEWBERN CAFE

Open on a long shot of the old UEO Assembly Hall. The "UEO"
sign has long been taken down, but the outline of it is still there,
faded onto the wall. A crew is working at painting over it. Camera
pulls back to a crowded outdoor cafe near the Assembly Hall. As
we weave between the tables, we catch snippets of conversation--
"Ross," "UEO," "_seaQuest_."  From the tone of voice, people
around here are strongly in support of Carolinan Confederation.
The camera stops its backward motion, coming to rest on a table
where Julia is sitting. She looks slightly uneasy until Carlos
shows up a moment later--a couple of guys at a table nearby have
been giving her funny looks. She looks up at Carlos with a smile as
he sets two tall, frosty glasses on the table and sits down.

CARLOS
(with a wry smile)
Couldn't we have timed this so we had some time at the beach?

JULIA
(laughing, wistfully)
That would have been nice.
(beat, more serious)
But we arrived soon enough to have time to monitor the general
atmosphere.

CARLOS
(uneasily)
Doesn't feel good, does it?

JULIA
(candidly)
Not for our side, no.
(beat)
President Ross' propaganda machine is working _very_ well.
(beat, sips drink and smiles)
Mmm, strawberry daiquiri.

CARLOS
(grins, self-satisfied)
We're in Florida--maybe they're even imported from Cuba. And
non-alcoholic, so we can keep our edge.

Julia gives Carlos a serious look.

JULIA
(flatly, stating a fact)
We're gonna need it, huh?

CARLOS
(solemn)
Every bit.
(nods toward the Assembly Hall)
They're doing their very best to cover up the past.

His double meaning is not lost on Julia. The twins watch the
workers for several moments. They've already nearly covered
up the "U" of "UEO."

CARLOS
(offhandedly)
Did Captain Wolenczak say when he'd be back?

JULIA
(shrugging)
Not really.
(beat)
Just that he was going to look around for awhile.

There's a long pause while they drink their daiquiris and watch
the work crew.

CARLOS
(thoughtfully)
What do you think he was like?

JULIA
(picking up on his train of thought)
Uncle Miguel?
(beat)
I don't know.

CARLOS
(pensively)
I wonder how he really died.

JULIA
(dryly)
You don't believe _seaQuest_ got caught in the crossfire between
those two confederations?

CARLOS
(doubtfully)
Do you?

JULIA
(irresolute)
Mom sure didn't.
(beat)
The UEO wouldn't deliberately lie to our family, would it?

WOLENCZAK
(answering, off-camera)
They didn't.

The twins look up in surprise at Wolenczak. They hadn't
noticed his approach. He sits as the MPs trailing him melt into
the background.

WOLENCZAK
(continuing softly)
Most of what they told you was true.
(beat)
We _did_ get caught in the crossfire of a battle we had no part of, 
and...
(beat, sadly)
We lost some good friends.

CARLOS
(sardonically, looking into his glass)
But that's where the similarities end.

WOLENCZAK
(wearily)
I would really like to tell you.
(beat, helplessly)
If nothing else, it would help preserve Miguel's memory.

JULIA
(well aware of the situation)
Actually, that particular event is classified just beyond our clearances.
(beat, explaining)
You see, Captain, the UEO doesn't exactly trust us, so Talents have
abnormally high security clearances.
(beat, derisive)
That way we're not reading classified information out of their heads.

Wolenczak's tight smile betrays his sympathy. Carlos set his
empty glass on the table hard and folds his arms resolutely.

CARLOS
(piqued)
And despite all that, they _still_ won't tell us the one and only
thing we'd like to know.

Carlos looks at Wolenczak for a moment, contemplative. Julia
picks up on it a moment before Wolenczak does.

JULIA
(incredulous)
Carlos!

Wolenczak gets it, and looks a little worried.

JULIA
(shaking her head, to Carlos)
Don't you dare!

She's blocking Carlos' probe into Wolenczak's mind. For a moment,
there's a battle of wills.

CARLOS
(irrational)
But--

JULIA
(sad, but still firm)
No.
(beat)
We don't need to know it that badly.

She looks deeply into Carlos' eyes, communicating something
beyond verbal means.

JULIA
(almost pleading)
It's not right. You know the rules.

Wolenczak's expression as he watches this exchange becomes more
and more dubious. He's uncomfortable at even the suggestion of
Carlos reading his mind. To see Carlos going against Julia like this
is particularly unnerving. With a deep breath, Wolenczak tries to
fight down his nerves. Finally, Carlos breaks off.

CARLOS
(mildly upset)
Fine.
(beat)
But the UEO won't tell us, you know that--

WOLENCZAK
(breaking in)
There are rules for that sort of thing?

JULIA
(turns to him apologetically)
There are several in our code of ethics, Captain, but first and
foremost, we don't enter someone's mind without their consent.
_Ever_.
(beat)
We also do not use our Talent to gain information--well--unethically.

WOLENCZAK
(perplexed)
Then how do you justify your diplomatic work?

JULIA
(calmly)
You don't understand how we work, Sir. Every human--Talented or
not--projects their emotions into the psychic atmosphere.

CARLOS
(rousing from his pensiveness)
We pick up on those emotions without even trying.
(beat)
It tells us, if not _what_ they're thinking, at least how they _feel_
about what they're thinking.

JULIA
(continuing)
Basically what we can offer are insights and gut feelings.
Telepathy never enters into our professional work. Talent is
more like good intuition.

WOLENCZAK
(wryly)
So you're not going to be giving me the jump on President Ross'
thoughts.

Julia and Carlos exchange glances. Carlos wants to say yes,
but isn't going to admit it.

CARLOS
(blandly)
'Fraid not.

WOLENCZAK
(mock-disappointment)
Well, I suppose we'll have to get by with that.

Julia returns his smile tentatively.

WOLENCZAK
(continuing, to the point)
Any--uh--insights into our chances for success?

JULIA
(wistfully)
Would that we were clairvoyant.
(beat, seriously)
The undercurrent here feels pretty ugly.

CARLOS
(earnestly)
From what we've been able to pick up, Sir, Ross' publicity campaign
is pretty effective on her own people.

Carlos has decided to let go of his defensiveness, and Wolenczak,
realizing this, loses some of his irritation.

WOLENCZAK
(just as solemn)
That's pretty much what I saw, too. Walking around in a UEO
dress uniform is definitely not the way to go in this town.
(glances at his watch)
Speaking of going, we'd better head over there. You guys ready?

JULIA
(straightforward)
I think the question should be, are _you_ ready?

Wolenczak gives them a tight, doubtful grin at that. The camera
follows as they get up, then continues on to a shot of the Assembly
Hall. The painters are still hard at work, and the "UEO" logo of old
is halfway covered.

CUT TO CAPE NEWBERN STREET

Percell walks down the street, still being trailed by the security
officer. Hunter follows. He catches up after about a block and turns
her around with a hand on her shoulder. The security guard stiffens
protectively, but hesistates as they talk. Percell's expression as she
looks up at him is a mixture of fear and anger.

HUNTER
(a little disgusted at her fear)
I'm not going to hurt you, Sara.

PERCELL
(glaring at her feet, sarcastically)
_That's_ good to know.

HUNTER
(trying to explain)
I was just trying to help.
(he searches for words)
I'm sorry if I said something wrong.

Percell's eyes are drilling holes through her toes.

PERCELL
(bitterly)
You didn't say anything wrong.
(beat)
Not exactly.

HUNTER
So I should have just let that guy harass you?

Now he's upset. Percell is not even grateful for his "assistance."

PERCELL
(fiery, looks up at him)
And _you're_ not harassing me now?
(beat, indignantly)
You've got a lot of nerve, Jason.

HUNTER
Look, Sara, I understand if you're still upset with me.
(beat, almost apologetically)
You have to keep in mind that in war, there are casualties.

Percell looks up at him sharply.

PERCELL
The Confederation and the UEO aren't at war.

HUNTER
(with a skeptical look)
Oh, aren't we?

He steps past her and walks away. Reflexively, she turns to watch
him with narrowed eyes. After he disappears in the crowd on the
street, the guy from the bar approaches her.

PERCELL
("don't mess with me")
Didn't I already tell you to get lost once tonight?

The guy squints in the direction Hunter went, then looks back at Percell.

GUY
(out of the blue, mysteriously)
Don't trust Hunter.

Percell rolls her eyes. What's up with this guy, anyway?

PERCELL
(with irony)
You're a little late, you realize, right?

The guys shakes his head, giving her an intense look.

GUY
Go back to your ship. Tell them to get out of port before something
terrible happens.

He leaves as suddenly as he appeared. Percell watches him go,
perplexed. How did he know she was a sailor?  And what is the
"something terrible"?

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT TWO


===========================  PART 3  =====================================


ACT THREE

OPEN ON HALLWAY

President Ross is waiting for her team in an isolated hallway. We
can tell it's isolated because there are no media people mobbing her,
although we can hear them off in the distance. There are Carolinan
security people at each end of the hall. Ross checks her watch
impatiently. Finally, DeLano shows up. He has just escaped the
mob of reporters.

DELANO
(unruffled)
Don't those reporters have anything better to do?

It's not really a question that needs an answer, so Ross ignores it,
giving him a narrow-eyed look for his tardiness.

ROSS
(irritably)
Where's Hunter? He's late.

DELANO
(shrugging)
That _seaQuest_ officer we released is on leave.
(beat)
He's probably harassing her.

ROSS
(sighing)
He has _got_ to learn some restraint.

DELANO
(tentatively, unsure how Ross will react)
Why don't you have him executed?

For the briefest of instants it seems that Ross actually considers
DeLano's suggestion. She gives him an annoyed, mockingly wishful
look and shakes her head.

ROSS
Can't.
(beat)
He's too photogenic.

DeLano almost pouts at that. Not enough to clue Ross in to the pout,
though. Hunter arrives, and DeLano gives him a dirty look.

CUT TO CONFERENCE ROOM

The UEO and Carolinan teams enter from different doors. Ross is
still being followed by DeLano and Hunter, and Wolenczak is with the
twins. A couple of security personnel follow each team, and they
take up stations against opposite walls behind the negotiators, watching
each other warily. The room itself is pretty small--probably a committee
room--but is too official to be cozy. Two tables face each other; each
has a mini flag denoting the "sides," and the ubiquitous pitcher/glasses
of water. They sit.

ROSS
(sweetly)
Captain Wolenczak.
(beat)
It's nice to finally meet you face to face.
(beat)
How very...interesting.

WOLENCZAK
(returning the sentiment)
Yeah. Interesting.

ROSS
(briskly)
Well.
(beat, indicates Hunter)
Of course, you already know Mister Hunter.
(indicates DeLano on her other side)
And this is my aide, Gary DeLano.

Ross' cold indication of Hunter causes Wolenczak to bristle
defensively. Julia puts a hand on his arm, recalling him to the
present business.

WOLENCZAK
(hesitantly, indicating his team)
This is, uh, Carlos and Julia Ortiz from the...UEO Department of
Foreign Affairs.

Obviously it's been decided that no one's going to let on that Julia
and Carlos are really from the ESP Center. Wolenczak looks at Julia
and Carlos, as though to ask "What do I do now?"  It's clear he's
never done this before. Not only to the twins, either. A slow smile
spreads across Ross' face as she realizes she's got the upper hand here.

ROSS
(seizing the opportunity)
So, Captain...
(beat)
Shall we begin?

Wolenczak nods, not knowing what else to do. Julia clears her throat.

JULIA
(prompting Wolenczak, almost)
May we see a copy of the agenda, if you don't mind?

ROSS
(too sweetly)
Not at all.

She nods to DeLano, who passes an electronic clipboard across to the
UEO delegation members.

ROSS
(indicating clipboard)
As you can see, none of our demands are unreasonable.

WOLENCZAK
(looks up sharply)
Demands?

He looks helplessly at Carlos and Julia. He didn't know about any
"demands."

JULIA
(carefully, to Ross)
We were told we were here to negotiate sea borders, not concede to
"demands."

ROSS
(mock apologetic)
I'm so sorry for your misunderstanding.
(beat, harder)
But the UEO's lack of communicative abilities is _not_ my problem.
(beat)
Now, Captain Wolenczak, shall we discuss the presence of UEO troops
on the border?

Wolenczak sips his water nervously, eyes on a smug Hunter.

WOLENCZAK
(searching, distractedly)
What about them?

Ross' eyes widen. This is going to be much too easy. Next to
Wolenczak, Carlos scrambles to scroll the electronic clipboard to
the correct point and slides it in front of Wolenczak.

ROSS
(pointedly)
Carolinan colonists are complaining that they feel...threatened...by
the continuing border patrols of UEO troops.
(beat, strongly)
The UEO must consider their withdrawal before we can even _begin_ to
talk about the borders themselves.

WOLENCZAK
(muttering to the tabletop)
Since you're _stealing_ our officers, I don't know why you're so
worried about it.

Ross is sure she's been insulted, but she couldn't quite hear what
Wolenczak said.

ROSS
(sharply)
I beg your pardon, Captain?

Carlos and Julia have heard what he said, and exchange wary looks.

CARLOS
(hurriedly)
Madame President, could you excuse us for a moment?
(beat)
If you don't mind.

Wolenczak shoots him a surprised look, unsure of what he's done
wrong.

JULIA
(continuing)
We'll just be a minute.

The twins are already beginning to get up, Julia with a hand on
Wolenczak's arm, before Ross has a chance to reply. This irritates
her, and she makes this clear.

ROSS
Please. Be my guest.

The UEO team exits, the twins practically dragging Wolenczak out.

CUT TO HALLWAY

Wolenczak, Carlos, and Julia exit the conference room. After
confirming that the only other people in the corridor are their
own MPs, they talk.

WOLENCZAK
(with quiet intensity)
Now, what was _that_ all about?

CARLOS
(calmly)
Captain, you have to stop letting your thoughts dwell on Hunter.

JULIA
(explaining)
There are higher stakes here.

Wolenczak folds his arms, halfway expecting some spiel about the good
of all mankind. After all, they're there for the greater good, not so
Wolenczak can trade dirty looks with Hunter.

WOLENCZAK
(stubbornly)
Such as?

The twins exchange glances. The real problem went right over his
head, didn't it?

JULIA
(patiently)
Hunter isn't the real threat.

CARLOS
(nodding)
We should all be keeping our eyes on DeLano--
(beat, emphasis)
and Ross.

Wolenczak's mind and emotions are still hung up on Hunter.

WOLENCZAK
(less sure of himself)
I don't quite understand.

JULIA
(explaining)
Hunter is rapidly outliving his usefulness as his public appeal
dissipates.
(beat)
He's not a politician, he's a soldier. That's not what Ross wants
right now.

CARLOS
(continuing)
The very fact that she had to bring him along shows she's losing her
grip.
(beat)
She's becoming desperate.

JULIA
(smoothly finishing his thought)
And a desperate woman...

She trails off, allowing Wolenczak to come up with the conclusion for
himself. He nods slowly in understanding, then gives the two an
appraising look.

WOLENCZAK
(appreciatively)
I'm beginning to see why Secretary General Hitchcock told me to trust
your judgment.

The twins smile slightly.

JULIA
(businesslike)
While we're out here, Sir, should we go over what President Ross put
on the agenda?

Wolenczak looks at her wearily.

WOLENCZAK
(faintly surprised)
Do we have time for all that?

JULIA
(thoughtfully)
We should go over a few things really quick.
(beat)
Let's see...there was the the borders, naturally, and she added the
thing about UEO troops _on_ the borders...

CARLOS
(picking up where she left off)
And the tariffs on Confederation products.

WOLENCZAK
(grimacing)
I can tell this will make for stimulating conversation.
(beat, more serious)
Do you think we can get Ross to even _talk_ about her immigration
laws?

CARLOS
(dubiously)
It's possible.

JULIA
(echoing the sentiment)
We'll probably have to make some concessions on the tariffs.

Wolenczak is carefully soaking up all their advice. He's more
confident now.

WOLENCZAK
(sighing)
It sounds like we've got our work cut out for us.
(beat)
Shall we go?

With renewed resolve, they move to re-enter the conference.

CUT TO CONFERENCE ROOM

The Carolinans are waiting for the UEO team to come back.

ROSS
(sternly)
Mister Hunter, I suggest you get your act together.

HUNTER
(beginning to protest)
What did I--

He breaks off when he sees her look. It's not one to be argued with.

HUNTER
(seemingly meek)
Yes, Ma'am.

Hunter _seems_ submissive, but when Ross looks away, he shoots her a
disgruntled _look_. DeLano sees it and allows himself a slight, smug
smile. Wolenczak, Julia and Carlos re-enter the room, and all sit.

WOLENCZAK
(cordial)
I apologize for the delay. Just a slight matter that needed clearing up.
(beat, consults clipboard)
Now, I'd like to talk about those trade tariffs.

Ross sees immediately that Wolenczak's more reassured, and her eyes
narrow as she realizes she's going to have to work a little harder at this.
They get down to business.

CUT TO _SEAQUEST_ BRIDGE

Normal bridge activity. There are a few of the extra UEO MPs in the
corners. Trueman looks up at Matthews, one hand on the earpiece
of her headset.

TRUEMAN
There's an incoming call from Cape Newbern for you, Commander.

Matthews walks over to her.

MATTHEWS
Is it the captain?

TRUEMAN
(puzzled)
No, Sir, it's...Sara.

Matthews gives her a surprised look, then leans over a little, talking into 
the com pickup.

MATTHEWS
Chief Percell?

PERCELL
(over com)
Yes, Sir?

MATTHEWS
What are you doing on station, Chief?

PERCELL
(over com, ruefully)
Doctor Curcio ordered me off the boat, Sir.

A dark look crosses Matthews' face as Percell continues.

PERCELL
(getting to the point)
We've got a problem here, Commander.

MATTHEWS
(nodding)
Go ahead.

PERCELL
(continuing)
Ross brought Hunter with her.

Trueman, who's been listening, shoots Matthews a shocked look at the
fatal "problem" and "Hunter" combination. Matthews clenches her
jaw, about ready to tear her own hair out.

MATTHEWS
(muttering, disgruntled)
They weren't in the same sentence.
(louder, to Percell)
Come back aboard, Chief. I'll call the captain and let him know.

PERCELL
(relieved)
Yes, Sir.

Trueman cuts the link, and gives Matthews an expectant look as the XO
turns back to her.

TRUEMAN
(considerately)
Hail the captain?

Matthews nods, and Trueman turns to make it so. After a moment
Trueman frowns.

MATTHEWS
(raising an eyebrow)
Having trouble, Ensign?

TRUEMAN
(shaking her head, confused)
I don't know what's wrong, Sir. I can't get through to Captain
Wolenczak.

MATTHEWS
Keep trying.

Suddenly the young, light-haired male extra manning sensors for
Percell interrupts.

SENSOR SPECIALIST
(worriedly)
Commander!

MATTHEWS
(under her breath, irritated)
What now?
(turning to him)
What is it, Seaman?

SPECIALIST
(uneasily)
You'd better take a look at this, Sir.
(beat)
The WSKRS are getting some strange readings just off the border.

Matthews goes to him.

CUT TO CONFERENCE ROOM

The negotiators have been at it for a while. Everyone looks
tired--even the indomitable Ross. We come in at the end of a
long discussion.

WOLENCZAK
(tiredly)
The issue over Carolina's immigration laws is simply a question of
your human rights policies.

ROSS
(pointedly)
I assure you, _Captain_, our human rights policies are well within
the _UEO_'s standards.

Her emphasis on certain words makes them veiled insults. DeLano
glances at his watch unobtrusively and touches Ross' arm. She
straightens slightly.

ROSS
(quickly)
And you're wasting my time.
(indicating his clipboard)
You have my...requests.

Her tone indicates that they're still demands, and the twins sense
what Ross is about to do.

CARLOS
(trying to stall her)
Is there something in our terms that is not acceptable to you, Madame
President?

ROSS
(giving Carlos a withering glance)
The terms are not negotiable. The Carolinan colonies in UEO waters
need my protection.

WOLENCZAK
(afraid to ask, but he has to know)
And if the territory is not conceded to you?

ROSS
(delivering an ultimatum)
If the UEO gets in my way, they'll regret it.

Ross stands, with DeLano and Hunter quickly following. Her eyes
sweep the shocked UEO team almost contemptuously.

ROSS
(ominously)
You have two hours, Captain.

They sweep out of the room, followed by their security personnel,
leaving Wolenczak, Julia, and Carlos to exchange worried looks as we...

CUT TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT THREE


===========================  PART 4  =====================================


ACT FOUR

OPEN ON MEDBAY

Curcio, standing next to a microscope, is preparing a sample. A couple
of med techs watch him, taking notes on their SEAPOCs. Behind them,
the door swings open and Matthew storms in with a scarcely veiled look
of displeasure.

MATTHEWS
(fighting to control her anger)
Doctor Curcio.

Curcio turns to her lazily, still holding a pipette in one latex-gloved 
hand.

CURCIO
(calmly)
Can I help you with something, Commander?

Matthews' eyes narrow. If he wants to make this difficult, she can
certainly oblige. She opens her mouth to speak, then notices Curcio's
assistants watching and rethinks what she was going to say, realizing
it wouldn't be such a great idea to dress down the CMO in front of them.

MATTHEWS
(forcibly calm)
Doctor, we need to talk.

Curcio bows his head slightly, but there is no sense of compliance in the
gesture. He turns back to the sample plate he was preparing and ejects
the sample from the pipette into it. He takes his time about it, as
Matthews fumes silently. Finally he sets aside the sample plate and
pipette and looks up at his two observers.

CURCIO
(to techs)
Why don't you two run down to the lab and spin up some controls, and
I'll bring this down in a minute.

The techs nod wordlessly and leave. Curcio continues to prepare his
sample, carefully wrapping the plate in clear plastic wrap.

CURCIO
(neutrally, eyes on his work)
Now, Commander, what was it you needed?

MATTHEWS
(angrily)
Doctor, Chief Percell tells me her _uncleared_ leave was _your_ idea.

Curcio glances up at Matthews quickly, indifferently, then looks back
at his sample.

CURCIO
(calmly)
That's right.
(beat)
Is there a problem with that?

Matthews folds her arms, exasperated.

MATTHEWS
(dryly)
You _have_ read the chief's file, I hope?

Curcio gives Matthews a faintly dirty look. He thinks his performance
may have been insulted, but he's not really letting it get to him.

CURCIO
(neutrally)
Yes, I have.

MATTHEWS
Then you understand the seriousness of sending her on leave in Cape
Newbern?

Curcio turns away from her, briskly stripping off his gloves and
discarding them in a "Biohazard" container.

CURCIO
("uh-huh")
And your point is...

MATTHEWS
(strongly)
You should also know Doctor Burke was strongly convinced that
any exposure to her previous memories could be harmful for her
long-term recovery chances.

Curcio opens a file drawer on the opposite wall, pulling out a folder.
He brings it over to his workplace, setting it on the table next to the
microscope. He looks Matthews straight in the eye--the first time
he's really given her his full attention.

CURCIO
(intensely)
Doctor Burke was of the opinion she should let time take its course.
(beat)
She was wrong.
(beat, not leaving room for refusal)
Chief Percell must face her fears.

MATTHEWS
(earnestly)
No, _you're_ just plain wrong, Doctor.

Curcio is saved from having to answer that by the com.

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Commander Matthews to the Bridge.

Matthews glances up, acknowledging the call. She says nothing,
just gives Curcio a _look_. Then she whirls and leaves.

CUT TO BRIDGE

Matthews walks briskly onto the Bridge, looking around alertly for
signs of trouble. Callan looks up at her from where he's hovering over
the extra at the sensor station.

CALLAN
(urgently)
Commander Matthews.

Matthews looks over at Callan and the specialist, then moves to the
sensor station. Callan is stationed behind the sensor specialist's left
shoulder, and she stands behind his right, studying his display intently.

MATTHEWS
(evenly)
What's going on?

The sensor specialist glances up at her briefly, then back at his screen.

SENSOR SPECIALIST
(tensely)
We've figured out those anomalous sensor readings, Sir.

MATTHEWS
(raising her eyebrows)
And?

The specialist looks up at Callan, who turns to Matthews and explains.

CALLAN
I've checked and double-checked, Commander. The WSKRS are
working perfectly.
(beat, reluctantly)
Those are Ross' ships out there, leaving Confederation waters.

SPECIALIST
(trying to be helpful, pointing)
They're headed straight for these colonies--here, here, and here.
(beat)
In _UEO_ water.

The specialist circles the pertinent areas on his screen with a finger.
Matthews rakes a hand through her hair, letting her breath out in a rush.

MATTHEWS
(quietly)
Those are the colonies the Confederation's asking for.

Callan shoots her a wide-eyed look. As tense as the whole situation
is, he hasn't quite thought of that as a possibility.

CALLAN
(unpleasantly surprised, softly)
Damn...
(beat)
Are you sure?

Matthews nods slowly, eyes riveted on the sensor display.

MATTHEWS
They've been disputing these colonies with the UEO for months.
That's why this conference was called.

CALLAN
(worriedly)
So what should we do?

MATTHEWS
(shaking her head, brow furrowed)
I'm not sure.
(beat)
The captain should know about this, though.
(beat, looking over to communications)
Ensign Trueman, have you had any luck reaching Captain Wolenczak?

Trueman shakes her head.

TRUEMAN
(apologetically)
I still can't get through, Sir. Maybe it's another one of those--

She breaks off as Matthews' eyes narrow dangerously. Trueman
catches herself and changes tactics.

TRUEMAN
(quickly)
I mean, it's not working, Sir.

Matthews' look is still fiery. She knows how close Trueman came
to blaming her problems on Hunter.

MATTHEWS
Keep on it, Ensign.
(agitated, beginning to pace)
Dammit, I wish the captain would have left one of the Ortiz twins
on board.

Callan doesn't quite catch her drift.

CALLAN
(dubiously)
Sir?

MATTHEWS
(hurriedly)
One of them might have been able to relay messages for us.

The presence and unique abilities of Carlos and Julia is hardly
a secret on _seaQuest_. We see that Matthews' casual mention
of the subject of Talents has worried the sensor specialist a little.
Pacing behind him, Matthews takes no notice of this.

MATTHEWS
(resigned)
We'll just have to keep trying the normal way.

CUT TO CONFEDERATION CONFERENCE ROOM

Ross, DeLano, and Hunter are meeting in a separate room from the
summit. It's their private headquarters. Ross is sitting calmly in a
chair, hands folded serenely in her lap, watching an agitated Hunter
pace. DeLano is sitting next to and slightly behind Ross.

HUNTER
(worriedly)
We've underestimated Captain Wolenczak before, Madame President.

In the past Ross has listened to Hunter's warnings about Wolenczak--
Hunter _was_ Wolenczak's XO, after all. Now, Ross is drawing her
own conclusions.

ROSS
(confidently)
Wolenczak doesn't worry me--nor does his over-hyped submarine.

HUNTER
(objecting)
But _seaQuest_--

ROSS
(cutting him off)
_seaQuest_ is not a concern.
(beat, confident)
Once our troops are in place, they'll be impossible to get rid of.
(beat)
And _seaQuest_ will stay right here in port while it all happens.

DeLano nods vigorously at everything Ross says, backing her up
like a faithful lap dog. He speaks up now, stating the obvious; his
tone insults Hunter for not realizing this.

DELANO
(condescending)
And then there's the fact that these colonies _are_, for all intents
and purposes, already Confederation property.

ROSS
(nodding)
After all, we're simply claiming what is ours.
(beat, self-satisfied)
We have to protect our citizens.

DeLano nods as Ross folds her arms, very pleased with herself.
Hunter continues to pace, clearly unconvinced.

CUT TO UEO CONFERENCE ROOM

This room is nearly identical to the Confederation's. Here, however,
it is Wolenczak who is pacing. Carlos and Julia, watching him,
exchange a wary look.

CARLOS
(quietly)
There's really no need to get agitated about this, Captain.

Wolenczak turns, facing him. He quickly bites off his instinctive
curt reply, then takes a moment to compose himself before giving
Carlos a _look_.

WOLENCZAK
(sarcastically)
Oh, sure...after all, she gave us _two hours_.

JULIA
(trying to reassure him)
It's not all that bad, Sir.
(beat)
A lot can be accomplished in two hours.

This doesn't make Wolenczak feel any better, and he continues to
pace. The twins wince at the waves of anxiety he's unconsciously
sending at them. Finally Wolenczak throws up his hands.

WOLENCZAK
(restless)
This entire situation is ridiculous.
(beat)
I can't get through to my crew.
(beat, more quietly)
And I don't even know what the hell's going on.

Carlos shoots a look at his sister, and Julia nods slightly. The
situation is rapidly getting worse.

CARLOS
(slowly)
It's partially our fault.

Wolenczak stops dead and whirls to look Carlos straight in the eye.

WOLENCZAK
(carefully, not sure of what he heard)
How is it your fault?

Julia smiles slightly, uncomfortably.

JULIA
We hadn't been made aware of Ross' conditions for the talks.
(beat, glances at her hands)
And once we realized, well...

CARLOS
(shrugs, finishing)
It was pretty much too late.

Wolenczak shakes his head, a little surprised, trying to take it all in.
Then he realizes something--this is basically in keeping with he ethics
the twins have insisted they practice.

WOLENCZAK
(feeling a little foolish)
And you were just acting in accordance with your ethical standard, right?

Carlos and Julia smile encouragingly. Maybe this won't be so bad
after all.

CARLOS
(relieved)
It was a judgment call, but, yes.

JULIA
(tentatively, making a peace offering)
If it's imperative that you contact your crew, one of us could go back
to _seaQuest_.

Carlos gives her a sudden, sharp look.

CARLOS
(surprised)
You think we should?

JULIA
(gently)
In this case, yes.
(beat)
It's the right thing to do, Carlos.

Wolenczak watches this exchange with one eyebrow raised. The
surprises keep compounding for him.

WOLENCZAK
You two can actually communicate like that?
(beat, hesitantly)
Mind-to-mind, over a distance?

CARLOS
(explaining patiently)
The technical details are a lot more involved, but that's the basic idea.

WOLENCZAK
(hardly daring to believe)
And you wouldn't mind doing it?

Julia casts a questioning glance at her twin, and apparently gets an
affirmative.

JULIA
(confidently)
As far as we're concerned, the only question left is which one of us
will go, and which will stay.

CARLOS
(helpfully)
I'll go. You can stay, Julia.

They exchange another long look, probably communicating something,
and come away satisfied.

JULIA
(thoughtfully)
We'll have to think of a reason for his departure that won't make
President Ross suspicious.

She exchanges another long look with her brother, who nods after a
moment, then presses one hand to his temple, the other covering his
stomach.

CARLOS
(weakly, but faking it)
Captain, suddenly I don't feel well.

JULIA
(concerned, also faking it)
Is it one of your migraines again?

Carlos nods in "pain," and Wolenczak grins conspiratorially as he
catches what they're doing. Wiping the grin off his face, Wolenczak
moves for the door as Julia bends over Carlos in concern. Opening
the door, Wolenczak pokes his head out to talk with the UEO guards
stationed outside.

WOLENCZAK
(solemn)
Mister Ortiz is not feeling well. I need two of you to escort
him back to the _seaQuest_.

They look back into the room, where Julia is helping Carlos get to
his feet. He still has one hand on the side of his head, and is
murmuring about bright lights and tingling fingers. The guard salutes.

GUARD
(stiffly)
No problem, Sir. We'll get him there if we have to carry him ourselves.

They take charge of the "migraine-plagued" Carlos, and Julia and
Wolenczak exchange a conspiratorial look as we...

CUT TO BRIDGE

Matthews' tension is obvious in the way she's prowling the
bridge. Apparently the past couple of hours haven't been real
wonderful. She is making a pass by navigation, and turns to face
the clam doors just in time to see Carlos hurry in, alone and
miraculously feeling better. She goes straight to him.

CARLOS
(quietly, addressing her worried look)
Captain Wolenczak couldn't get through to you, Commander.
Is everything all right?

MATTHEWS
(sardonically)
Not exactly.
(beat, hesitantly)
Can you talk to your sister, and have her relay stuff to the captain?

CARLOS
(nodding)
That's why I'm here.

Carlos spreads his hand, indicating he's at Matthews' service. She
smiles tentatively.

MATTHEWS
(relieved)
You read my...

She hesitates as she sees his expression and realizes how ridiculous
"you read my mind" must sound to him.

MATTHEWS
(recovering)
Never mind.

Carlos smiles slightly in understanding, his dark eyes twinkling;
then he sobers.

CARLOS
(seriously)
So, what's going on?

Matthews sighs, looking everywhere but at Carlos.

MATTHEWS
(wearily)
Carolina is sending attack subs out to those disputed colonies in
our water.
(beat)
They'll reach the nearest one within the hour.
(beat, looks up at Carlos)
If we leave now, we may be able to stop them...but I'd like Captain
Wolenczak's okay to leave.

Carlos nods, understanding, then closes his eyes and takes a deep
breath. His face relaxes, and we get the impression that he's totally
focused on a psychic call to his sister. Matthews watches him,
fidgeting a little. Finally Carlos surfaces, blinking rapidly and letting
his breath out in a rush.

CARLOS
(softly, regaining his balance)
Captain Wolenczak gives you his permission to depart, Commander.

MATTHEWS
(gratefully)
Of course. Thank you.
(turning to face the bridge)
Ensign Trueman, get clearance to depart. Ensign Reede, get us
out of here.

Trueman and Reede acknowledge Matthews' orders and get to work.

CUT TO CONFERENCE ROOM

As we open on the scene, the conference room is empty. Almost
immediately, doors open on both sides of the room, and the
Carolinan and UEO teams march in. The UEO team is minus
Carlos, and Wolenczak is more somber than before. They all sit.

ROSS
(almost suspiciously)
Captain Wolenczak, you appear to have lost someone since we last
met.

Ross looks pointedly at the chair Carlos had previously occupied.
Wolenczak casts an embarrassed glance at the empty chair, then at
Julia on his other side, and finally across the table to Ross.

WOLENCZAK
(diplomatically)
I do apologize...Carlos had to return to _seaQuest_ for his own welfare.

Wolenczak looks to Julia expectantly.

JULIA
(continuing, apologetically)
My brother had a migraine, Madame President.
(beat, quickly)
It's been an incurable lifetime problem.

Ross looks at them with narrowed eyes, trying to ascertain
whether they're sincere. Finally she relaxes a bit, apparently
accepting their assurances. She folds her hands before her on the
table, businesslike.

ROSS
(briskly)
I trust, Captain, that you have given our terms careful consideration.

Ross leans back, self-satisfied. DeLano and Hunter, on either side
of her, are smug; DeLano is almost sneering. Wolenczak gives
Julia a questioning look, and she responds with a slight nod.

WOLENCZAK
(carefully)
We have.

Ross leans forward again.

ROSS
(impatiently)
And...?

Wolenczak takes a deep, preparatory breath, looking Ross straight
in the eye, and begins his reply.

CUT TO BRIDGE

Matthews is pacing again, arms folded. Carlos leans against a
bulkhead in the background, out of the way. Trueman's voice is
also in the background as she talks with the Carolinans. At the
end of a heated discussion, Trueman throws her hands up,
severing the connection and yanking off her headset indignantly.

TRUEMAN
(defeated)
I'm sorry, Commander. I can't get clearance.
(beat)
The Carolinans won't let us leave.

Carlos shrugs as Matthews stops pacing.

CARLOS
(resigned)
That's predictable, actually...
(beat)
They want to stop us from stopping _them_.

Matthews thought as much, and she nods, contemplating the forward
screen that shows the sensor display. The Carolinan ships, marked in
red, are moving steadily away from Florida. She takes a deep, calming
breath, then looks at Reede.

MATTHEWS
Ensign Reede, blow the mooring clamps.

Reede does a double take, blinking astonishedly and looking at
Matthews.

REEDE
(doubtfully)
Sir?

MATTHEWS
(determinedly)
You heard me, Ensign. We're leaving, whether the Carolinans like it
or not.
(beat)
That's final.

Reede turns back to his controls, not at all hesitant to follow that order.

REEDE
(eagerly)
Yes, Sir.

CUT TO EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_ AND BERTH--CGI

Muted explosions can be seen as _seaQuest_ attempts to break free.

CUT TO CONTROL ROOM

Warning sirens are blaring in the Carolinan control room. A large
viewscreen in the background shows the CGI of _seaQuest_ trying to
escape her berth. An officer rushes to look over a technician's shoulder.

OFFICER
(urgently)
Stop them, Seaman!
(beat)
We have specific orders from President Ross to keep _seaQuest_
from leaving.

The technician is working frantically at his controls, and shakes his head.

TECHNICIAN
(helplessly)
I'm sorry, Sir...I have to let them go.
(beat, one hand indicating a readout on his screen)
A forced exit will hurt our docking system a hell of a lot more'n it'll
hurt the _seaQuest_.

The officer whirls, running a hand through his hair as, powerless, he
watches the screen. _seaQuest_ leaves the berth and heads for open
water as we...

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT FOUR


===========================  PART 5  =====================================


ACT FIVE

OPEN ON CONFERENCE ROOM

We come in at the end of a long speech by Wolenczak. He's sitting in
his place, hands folded in front of him when he's not gesturing to make
a point, much more at ease than he was at the beginning of the
negotiations. Julia, beside him, has her head cocked to watch him,
and she has a slight, proud smile on her face. Ross, facing them, is
listening attentively, as is DeLano, although he is leaning his head on
one hand. Hunter's bored, and his eyes are wandering. During
Wolenczak's speech, another guard comes in the door behind the
Carolinans and whispers in Ross' ear. She frowns slightly before
dismissing the man, who's just told her of _seaQuest_'s departure.
Then Ross gets a calculating look on her face.

WOLENCZAK
(firmly, winding down)
...Basically, your terms are far from acceptable. The purpose of
this conference was to debate the territory your Confederation has
claimed, _not_ to give you _more_.
(beat)
That's all there is to it.

JULIA
(adding on, indicating the clipboard in front of her)
If you are not going to allow any negotiation of these issues,
Madame President, we have no choice but to wholly reject them.

Ross isn't ecstatic about this response, but she expected as much.
Their rejection doesn't bother her as much as it should; after all,
she already has a contingency plan in motion, and she's getting
an additional idea. She folds her arms.

ROSS
("if that's the way you want it")
As I have told you, Captain, Ms. Ortiz, our requests are not open to
discussion.
(beat, shrugging)
Nor do I think they're unreasonable.

Wolenczak exchanges resigned looks with Julia. They've done all they
can do; stopping the Carolinans is in the hands of Matthews and
_seaQuest_ now. Wolenczak stands.

WOLENCZAK
("that's that")
Well, then, our business is done.

Julia stands to follow Wolenczak as he turns to leave. The two UEO
guards, who have been standing at half-attention against the wall
behind the UEO table, snap to action. The MP lieutenant moves
to precede his charges through the door, but finds it locked.
The MPs instantly go on the alert, hands on their holstered weapons.

LIEUTENANT
(warily)
It's locked, Sir.

Wolenczak's eyes widen, but he converts his expression to just
suspicion--no surprise--as he turns back to Ross. His look
wordlessly demands for her to tell him just what the hell is going on.
Ross smiles slightly, knowing she's gotten the better of Wolenczak.

ROSS
(coldly)
Your boat left, Captain.
(beat)
You're going to have to stay here for a bit longer.

Wolenczak bristles at her tone, and Julia, much calmer, puts a
placating hand on his arm. He takes a deep breath.

WOLENCZAK
(warning tone)
You know holding a UEO officer against his will is a breach of
international law.
(beat, indicating Julia)
Not to mention the offenses against the diplomatic corps.

ROSS
(grinning nastily)
You're not here against your will, Captain.
(beat, more menacingly)
Think of this as...
(beat, searching for words)
...my personal brand of protective custody.

Wolenczak glances meaningfully at his armed guards.

WOLENCZAK
(raising an eyebrow)
How do you see it that way?

ROSS
(explaining impatiently)
If I were to let you outside right now, Captain, you'd probably have
about a hundred people trying to kill you.
(beat, amending that thought)
Or, at least, trying to kill to interview you.

Ross stands, followed immediately by DeLano and a little more slowly
by Hunter. _Her_ two guards snap stiffly to attention, flanking the
door. Wolenczak and Julia watch helplessly.

ROSS
(smoothly)
Neither of you will be harmed.
(beat)
Just think of it as another opportunity to think about the terms of
the settlement.

The UEO guards bristle as the Confederation team turns, but Wolenczak
raises a staying hand and lets them leave. Julia looks up at him
worriedly as the door closes, and they stare at each other for a few
moments, wondering what to do next.

CUT TO EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_--CGI

The _seaQuest_ is cruising through the water at top speed.

CUT TO BRIDGE

Matthews is in the captain's chair, a determined look on her face.
She is completely in control. The atmosphere on the Bridge is at the
heightened state of alert that comes from charging into a confrontation.
Carlos is in the background, out of the way. As the camera pans from
Matthews to Carlos, he gives a small start and steadies himself with a
hand on a bulkhead. His eyes unfocus for a moment; he's receiving a
message from Julia. Then he moves forward to Matthews.

CARLOS
(warningly)
Commander, Captain Wolenczak has a...situation.

MATTHEWS
(startled)
A situation?

CARLOS
Ross...locked them in.

MATTHEWS
(too loudly)
She _what_?!

CARLOS
(patiently)
President Ross is holding Julia and the captain.
(beat, hurrying to reassure Matthews)
They're all right.
(beat)
Ross just won't let them leave.

MATTHEWS
(grimacing)
Great.

CARLOS
(as an afterthought)
Julia and I will be out of range of each other soon.

Matthews gives him another surprised look.

MATTHEWS
You will?

CARLOS
(nodding)
Most Talents can't even establish a link unless they're within
eyesight of each other. Since Julia and I are twins, and both of us
are Talented, we have a stronger bond.
(beat)
But it's not indefinite.

Matthews lets her breath out in a rush, blowing stray hair away from
her forehead. She didn't need this, on top of everything else that has
happened. There's nothing to be done about it, however.

MATTHEWS
(resigned)
Well, you've certainly done your part.

Reede half-turns in his chair toward Matthews.

REEDE
Sir, we're approaching the Janus Colony.
(beat, flippant)
Time to get out that big stick.

Matthews hides a smile, and she stands. Carlos withdraws, out of the
way again.

SENSOR SPECIALIST
(reporting)
The Carolinan warsub is turning toward us.

MATTHEWS
All stop.

REEDE
(complying)
All stop, aye.

MATTHEWS
Ensign Trueman, open a channel to that sub.

TRUEMAN
Aye, Sir.
(beat)
Channel open.

A man in a Carolinan Confederation uniform appears on the front
viewscreen. Matthews takes a few steps closer to the screen and
addresses the captain in her best commanding voice.

MATTHEWS
This is Lieutenant Commander Jessie Matthews of _seaQuest_. You
must vacate the area immediately.
(beat)
You are trespassing in UEO waters, and you have no claim to this
territory.

CAPTAIN
(sneering)
Don't I get a warning first, Lieutenant Commander?

Matthews folds her arms, glaring at the Carolinan captain. It is not
wise to mess with her right now.

MATTHEWS
(sternly)
This _is_ your warning, Captain.
(beat)
If you do not move to vacate UEO waters immediately, I'll have to use
force.

The captain glares right back. Two can play this game.

CAPTAIN
(severely)
You have no right to order us away from a colony which is _Carolinan_
property.
(beat)
In fact, I don't think you have any place making threats, when _your_
captain is being held in Cape Newbern.

The captain has obviously intended this announcement for shock
factor, but Matthews just purses her lips. She knew that already.

MATTHEWS
That changes nothing.

CAPTAIN
The Janus Colony, Lieutenant Commander, is Carolinan property. Do
not interfere with us.

The channel is abruptly cut, and Matthews runs a hand through her
hair, wondering what to do next. From the science station, Ensign
Anne Morgan glances sidelong at Trueman.

MORGAN
(slyly)
Did you get that?

Trueman nods, puzzled.

MORGAN
(persisting)
Recorded?

TRUEMAN
Yeah.

MORGAN
(grinning)
Make a copy and tight-beam it to...Mister Vince Matson, care of CNN.

A smile slowly spreads across Trueman's face as she realizes what
Morgan has in mind. Evil grins all around the bridge echo her
expression. Trueman glances questioningly at Matthews, gets
a go-ahead nod, and punches some buttons, carrying out Morgan's
suggestion.

CUT TO CAROLINAN SUB--BRIDGE

The camera quickly pans around the bridge of the Carolinan submarine,
which seems almost inferior when compared to _seaQuest_.
Lighting is dim, with red lights emphasizing the alert level the sub is
at. The camera lands on the Carolinan captain. He is looking at Ross'
face on his tiny vidcom, a forcibly civil expression on his face.

ROSS
(over com, tersely)
You have carried out your orders well, Captain.

CAPTAIN
(agitated)
_seaQuest_ is still out there, Madame President.
(beat)
I warned them of our position ten minutes ago.

ROSS
(calmly)
I understand that, Captain.
(beat)
However, we have gained our objective another way.

Tight shot of Ross' face on the vidlink as we...

CUT TO ROSS' OFFICE

The tight shot of Ross' face pulls back, as she continues talking, to
reveal more of her office. Ross sits ramrod-straight at her desk,
talking to a vidlink display.  DeLano and Hunter sit against
the wall behind and to one side of her, just out of view of the
vidlink.

ROSS
(continuing from the previous scene)
The negotiations have been more successful than I had anticipated.
(beat, a little forced)
Stand down, Captain. The Janus Colony is in our hands, and
_seaQuest_ will be leaving shortly.

Ross directs a quick glance off screen to her right at the mention of
_seaQuest_.

CAPTAIN
(over com)
Yes, Madame President.

Ross ends the call and looks to her right again. This time the
camera pans to show us what she has been looking at--Wolenczak
and Julia, who have also been sitting out of view of the vidcom.

WOLENCZAK
(blandly)
Thank you, Madame President.
(beat)
Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to get back to my boat.

ROSS
(venomously)
By all means, Captain.
(beat)
As soon as _seaQuest_ backs off from my colony, of course.

Wolenczak bristles slightly at the "my."

WOLENCZAK
(smiling tightly)
Of course.
(beat, correcting her statement)
_Access_ to your colonies is yours.

Ross' eyes narrow.

ROSS
(tightly)
Your little bluff has worked _this_ time, Captain Wolenczak.
(beat)
But footage on CNN does not win you much.

She turns back to her vidlink, punching in a number.

CUT TO _SEAQUEST_ BRIDGE

Matthews is sitting in the captain's chair, her clenched fists the
only sign of her tension. Trueman looks up at her quickly.

TRUEMAN
(urgently)
Commander!  You've got a call from President Ross in Cape Newbern.

Matthews nearly jumps out of her chair.

MATTHEWS
(swallowing nervously)
Put her on.

Ross' face pops up on the front viewscreen. She begins without
preamble.

ROSS
(over com)
Commander, back down from the Janus Colony.
(beat, qualifying herself)
Your captain is being released, and the colony is now a part of
Carolinan Confederation.

Matthews gives Ross a suspicious look.

MATTHEWS
(warily)
That's nearly the same thing your sub captain told me.

Ross looks like she's going to make an angry reply; she gets a hold
of herself quickly, and reaches forward to swivel the vidlink until it
rests on Wolenczak and Julia.

WOLENCZAK
(reassuringly)
It's over, Commander.
(beat)
Stand down.

Matthews stares at her captain incredulously for a moment, not
believing he's telling her to do this. She almost looks like she's
going to refuse him--computer graphics _have_ been known to
be used on vidlinks--but the sensor specialist interrupts her
thoughts.

SPECIALIST
Sir, the Carolinan sub is standing down.
(beat, watching his monitor)
They're moving away.

This convinces Matthews, as do Wolenczak's next words.

WOLENCZAK
Your call to Mister Matson worked.
(beat)
Return to Cape Newbern, Commander.

MATTHEWS
(relieved)
Yes, Sir.
(beat)
We'll be there shortly.

Matthews gestures to Trueman to cut the connection, and she does so.
Matthews looks over to Morgan.

MATTHEWS
Ensign Morgan.

MORGAN
(glancing up)
Yes, Sir?

MATTHEWS
(nodding in approval)
Good work, Ensign.

MORGAN
(smiling)
Thank you, Sir.

Matthews turns to give Reede the order to return to Cape Newbern.

CUT TO EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_--CGI

_seaQuest_ is cruising through the water.
Caption reads: "One week later"

CUT TO LAUNCH BAY

Wolenczak, Julia, and Carlos are at the hatch of Docking Bay Three.
Wolenczak shakes hands with Carlos, then with Julia.

WOLENCZAK
It's been a pleasure working with you.
(beat)
Thank you for all your help.
(beat, meaningfully)
Miguel would have been proud of you.

The twins smile at that. It's just what they needed to hear.

JULIA
(warmly)
You're most welcome, Captain.

CARLOS
(offhandedly)
Your crew's psych evaluations are a bit overdue, Sir.
(beat)
We'll ask the Center to send someone.

Wolenczak manages a tight grin. He's not dying for this.

WOLENCZAK
(dryly)
Great.

Julia lets it drop, and sees Morgan across the room.

JULIA
(getting her attention)
Ensign Morgan!

Morgan turns as she hears her name, and walks over to them.

JULIA
(warmly)
That was very quick thinking you did.
(beat, continuing)
Forwarding that threat to Vince Matson, I mean.

CARLOS
(finishing her thought)
I can't believe he pulled together a story so quickly.

MORGAN
(shrugging)
It's no big deal...I've been keeping in touch with him via the 'Nex,
and he's mentioned several times that he wished he had enough to
do a story on the Confederation. I figured I'd help him out.
(beat, smiling shyly)
After all, he was pretty helpful last Christmas.

WOLENCZAK
(smiling)
We didn't stop Carolina from getting those colonies, but we _did_
score a PR hit.

JULIA
(gently)
So the trade was worth it?

WOLENCZAK
(musing)
Us for the colonies?
(beat, with conviction)
I think so.

Carlos and Julia smile, then board their shuttle. When they are
gone, Morgan looks up at Wolenczak.

MORGAN
We'd better get to the Wardroom, Sir.
(beat)
The program is broadcasting in ten minutes.

CUT TO EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_--CGI

Caption reads: "One hour later"

MATSON
(V.O.)
Several times in the past, Carolinan Confederation has manipulated
public opinion to their favor by means of treachery.

CUT TO WARDROOM

All the senior staff except Curcio are at the table, watching Vince
Matson wrap his broadcast.

MATSON
(continuing from the previous scene)
There are, we are sure, many pieces of information that must still be
uncovered.
(beat)
Perhaps in the future, the public won't be so quick to the condemn
the UEO in its mind's eye.
(beat)
After all, it's worked for nearly half a century.

Wolenczak grins as we...

FADE TO BLACK

THE END
==========================================================================

Copyright 1997 by the seaQuest 2047 staff