Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998 17:07:46 -0800 From: Vicky & Bob Subject: seaQuest 2047/season 3/episode 2/"Vital Signs"/Act 1 To: seaquest_2047@midnight.postino.com X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.2106.4 ACT ONE OPEN ON _SEAQUEST_--CREW'S MESS Coffee, donuts, scrambled eggs, and toast are the order of the day as the crew gathers for breakfast. Lieutenant Justin Riller and Ensign Rebecca Trueman are just leaving the service line, trays in hand, and heading for a table. Riller is yawning. RILLER God, what a night. (beat, sitting) Six hours running point in the Marauder. (beat, yawning again) And that's _after_ helping with the resupply from the _Wichita_. TRUEMAN (sympathetic) Guess it's no fun being a responsible authority figure, huh? Riller perks up at that. RILLER Authority figure? (beat) Now that you mention it, I guess I _am_. (beat, grinning) Thanks, Becca, you made my day! Trueman mumbles through a mouthful of scrambled eggs. TRUEMAN Don't mention it. Least I could do. We pan over to where Force Recon Team Six is sitting. Petty Officer Rupert Dobbs is yawning widely over his breakfast, while Lieutenant (j.g.) Ken Bear, Chief Warrant Officer Tatiana Svetlovana, and Petty Officer Masaki Takemitsu regard him with concern. SVETLOVANA You don't look very good. TAKEMITSU I didn't even look that bad after that shore leave in Bangkok. DOBBS (wryly) Same effect, without the fun. (beat) I've been having terrible nightmares and my head feels like a thousand Irishmen have been doing a jig inside it. Bear thinks for a moment. BEAR I don't recall you having nightmares after a mission before. DOBBS It's not the mission. (beat) It's _her_. As he points, the camera follows his POV to a corner table. Sitting alone, back to the rest of the room, is Ensign Anne Morgan. We return to the recon team. SVETLOVANA Morgan? (beat) I don't understand. (beat) She's probably the _calmest_ person on this boat right now. DOBBS Don't let her fool you. Outside, sure, she's calm. (beat) But in her mind... He shakes his head gingerly. DOBBS (continuing) If she doesn't get a handle on it soon, she's going to put us both in the psych ward. TAKS So, whatcha gonna do, Dobbsie? Walk over to her wearing a big "Do not disturb" sign? DOBBS I'll have to have a word with the Ensign. SVETLOVANA Good luck. I spoke to her yesterday, before the wake...she wasn't exactly...personable. DOBBS I'll manage. After all, my mental health is at stake. (beat, grinning) If it were _Taks_ in my place, we wouldn't have a problem. TAKS Mental health? _Me_? (beat) Nah...never had it, never will. The tension is broken and they share a laugh as we... CUT TO WOLENCZAK'S OFFICE Wolenczak and Commander Jessie Matthews are in the middle of their morning briefing. Matthews is seated in front of Wolenczak's desk, a couple of SEAPOCs, some hard copy reports, and a mug of tea in front of her. Wolenczak has a mug of coffee. On top of his computer rests a half-eaten donut. MATTHEWS (shocked) You're letting her _what_? WOLENCZAK I'm letting her be the second seater on the Outrider. MATTHEWS With all due respect, Captain, you're nuts. (beat) Anne Morgan is the most...gentle...person I know. And you want to make her a fighter jockey? WOLENCZAK (mildly) It was her idea. (beat) Do you have someone better in mind? MATTHEWS (flatly) _I_ could do it. WOLENCZAK (shaking his head) Then we'd need a pilot for Marauder One. (beat) Think about it. (beat) Percell can't fly a fighter anymore. When Reede moved up to the Outrider, Davis took over his Marauder. We lost her in the Hantu thing. (beat) That leaves you and Riller of our original complement of Marauder pilots. Reede is running the Outrider. Next to him and Goodwin, Morgan had actually logged the most time in it, even though it wasn't in battle. Matthews isn't ready yet to admit defeat. MATTHEWS But..._Anne_? (beat) I'm not sure it's good for her, to be honest. (beat) When she was fighting yesterday...it was like she had a psych implant or something. It just wasn't _her_. Wolenczak plays his final card. WOLENCZAK You're too late, Commander. I've already forwarded her request to headquarters. (beat, softer) Besides...it's what Anne wants. Matthews looks at him for a long moment. MATTHEWS Permission to speak freely, Sir? WOLENCZAK (a bit surprised) Of course. Matthews takes a deep breath, then stands and paces the room as she speaks. MATTHEWS I once asked you if you were trying too hard to be impartial about Anne. (beat) Now... WOLENCZAK (coolly) Now? MATTHEWS (sighing) It's not that I think you're showing _favoritism_, exactly. (beat) It's just that...I think you're trying to give her the chance to get a little back for what's happened to her. Even though that may not be the best thing for her. Wolenczak thinks on it for a moment. WOLENCZAK I understand what you're saying. (beat) I might even agree with it a bit. (beat, shaking head) But the fact is, we're short on people. And she's the most qualified. And she wants the job. Matthews sighs, realizing she's defeated. MATTHEWS Yes, Sir. WOLENCZAK Then let's get on with the day. He rises and they both leave, closing the hatch behind them. CUT TO OFFICE INTERIOR We see an large executive office, with a deep blue carpet, and walls painted in graduating shades of blue up to a light ceiling. On the wall is a large video display, currently showing a detail from Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel of the creation of Adam. As the camera pans right we see a large gray desk, with an inset computer display panel and touchscreen. The only decoration on the desk is a metal double helix, glinting in the reflected light. A tone sounds from the desk, and we see a hand reach over and press a control. MALE VOICE Yes, Miss Stella? The voice we hear is deep and mellow, with a smooth, honey-like tone. There is a slight accent, sounding vaguely European. MISS STELLA (over intercom) There's a call for you, Sir. From Minister Langson of the UEO. MALE VOICE (sighing) Put him through, Miss Stella. Panning away from the desk to the video screen on the wall, we see Andrew Langson, former UEO defense minister, looking agitated. MALE VOICE Andrew, what a pleasant surprise. What can I do for you? LANGSON Pleasant for you, maybe. I'm finding it frustrating, myself. (beat) You heard about my dismissal. MALE VOICE I heard. Actually, not a surprise, considering how often you baited the Secretary General. LANGSON (defensive) I never baited her! I just set forward my views on the way we should use our resources-- MALE VOICE (cutting him off, pained) Please, Andrew, no campaign speeches today. (beat) So, what is it you need? LANGSON Well, for your plan to work, I still need to be in a position to challenge for the Secretary General position. (beat) But there are no openings among the NorPac delegation. MALE VOICE Currently. (beat) Where are you staying? LANGSON The Mortenson. Room 427. MALE VOICE I'll have the twins visit you this evening-- LANGSON (puzzled) The twins? MALE VOICE (chuckling) Trust me; you'll understand when they visit you. LANGSON All right, Doctor. I'll wait for them. (beat) Did you ever find Andrea? MALE VOICE No. I'm afraid she's lost to us for now. (beat) But you know me. No one is ever really gone in my world. Langson nods, and reaches out toward the screen. A generic "END TRANSMISSION" logo appears. MALE VOICE (O.S.) Miss Stella, please ask the twins to finish their current assignment and to contact me immediately. (beat) I have some new instructions for them. CUT TO EXTERIOR, MCKENSI INSTITUTE-CGI All is calm at the science station. Light shines from various viewports. CUT TO CALLANS' LIVING ROOM Kelly Callan is sitting on the sofa, feet up, looking very bored and uncomfortable. She's flipping channels on the vid, but doesn't stick with one long enough for us to get an idea of what the program is. Lieutenant Commander Greg Callan enters and passes through the room, heading for the kitchen. CALLAN (as he passes) What do you want for dinner tonight, Kel? KELLY I'm not really very hungry. (beat, as he passes through) Greg! You got a letter! He stops, turns. CALLAN (curious) From...? KELLY ("innocent") It's in that official-looking envelope on the table. Callan picks up an envelope from the end table and examines it. The UEO seal is very prominently displayed on the upper left corner. He opens the envelope and withdraws a disk. He looks at Kelly, raising an eyebrow, and then walks over to the computer console, flips it on, and opens the file on the disk. CALLAN (reading) ...You will return to active duty...UEO Headquarters, Portland, Oregon...research and development! (beat, looking at Kelly) And they've got a position waiting for you there, too, if you want it! (beat) They want us to report as soon as you've had the baby and can travel. (beat, grinning) Which reminds me...when _are_ you going to have the baby? You're due tomorrow. KELLY (smiling broadly) Would the next day or so suit you, then? He is still absorbed in reading about his new position and doesn't really take in what she has said. CALLAN (teasing) Well, Kelly, it's not like you have a whole lot of say in the matter. She looks at him, a little disappointed, as he doesn't understand. KELLY (bluntly) Greg, I started having contractions a few hours ago. Callan looks up from the letter...he's starting to get it now. CALLAN Bu--wha--? KELLY They're pretty small still, so it'll probably be early tomorrow morning, near as I can tell. He rushes over to her, kneels on the floor beside the sofa, and lays his right hand on her belly. CALLAN (excited) Are you sure? KELLY As sure as I _can_ be. It's not like I've ever done this before. CALLAN What should I do? Should I get your bag ready? Or should I boil some water? Kelly looks at him indulgently and smiles. KELLY Only if you're making tea. (beat) Easy, Greg. First babies usually take time. I already spoke to Doctor Hurst, and he says to just take it easy for now and try to get some sleep tonight. (beat) Tomorrow's going to be a busy day... As she speaks, three tones are heard over the institute public address system. Following the attention signal, we hear the following announcement: VOICE (over p.a.) Attention, all institute personnel. By order of UEO Central Command this facility is to be evacuated beginning at 1200 hours tomorrow. Evacuation Plan B is in effect. All personnel may bring personal effects not to exceed fifty kilos in weight. You will be taken to temporary facilities in Annapolis preparatory to reassignment. (beat) Science staff are to proceed to their work areas to secure all data and begin security procedures. Nonessential support staff and families may begin their evacuation procedures. (beat) This is not a drill. I repeat, this is _not_ a drill. Callan looks nervously at his wife. CALLAN You sure you can't either speed this up or slow it down? KELLY (shaking her head) Not a chance. (beat) At least, I don't think a mere evacuation is a reason to tinker with biology. We'll just let nature take its course. CALLAN (to Kelly's belly) Okay, little one...you'd better make up your mind quick about getting here. KELLY I'd better go down to the lab and help out. Callan jumps up. CALLAN (protesting) Kel! You're on maternity leave! (beat) Hell, you're _in labor_! I think they'd understand if you didn't show up. KELLY (firmly) We have less than twenty-four hours before the evacuation starts, and it'll keep my mind off the contractions. (beat) Now help me off this sofa. Callan studies her a moment, then shakes his head, smiling. CALLAN (shaking his head) Scientists. (beat) You never cease to amaze me. He extends a hand and pulls her up. CUT TO COMMERCIAL END ACT ONE Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998 17:07:48 -0800 From: Vicky & Bob Subject: seaQuest 2047/season 3/episode 2/"Vital Signs"/Act 2 To: seaquest_2047@midnight.postino.com X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.2106.4 ACT TWO OPEN ON WARDROOM Morgan is alone in the wardroom, seated about halfway down one side of the briefing table, her back to the hatch. Spread out before her is an array of SEAPOCs and technical manuals. One, in a bright red cover, is emblazoned: "Project Outrider: Classified". Morgan is deeply engrossed in her studies. Behind her, we see Chaplain Jian Lei enter the room. LEI Ensign? Startled, Morgan jumps, then twists around in her seat to see who's there. MORGAN Oh...Chaplain. Did you need this room? (beat) I can get this stuff out of here... LEI That won't be necessary. I came to speak to you. MORGAN (a little uncomfortable) About...? Lei pulls out a chair and sits down beside her. LEI (gently) You've been through some real trials in the past several weeks. (beat) And especially in the last few days. MORGAN (stiffly) I appreciate your concern, Mister Lei, but it's unnecessary. I'm fine. LEI We missed you at the service for Lieutenant Commander Goodwin and Lieutenant Covarrubias. MORGAN (flatly) I was busy. Lei sighs. LEI Ensign, you may find it easier to deal with your grief right now by burying it in your work, but later...you'll wish you'd let yourself feel more now. Morgan stares at him for a moment. MORGAN I've felt grief before, Chaplain. Enough that I don't think I need to feel it again. (beat, dismissive) Now, if you'll excuse me, I need have the stealth protocols for the Outrider learned before our next rotation on point. Without waiting for a reply from the chaplain, she returns to her studies. Lei sighs again and rises. As he opens the hatch, he turns back to her. LEI When you're ready to face it, Ensign, I am ready to listen. She makes no response, and he leaves, closing the hatch behind him. CUT TO EXTERIOR--UEO HQ It's late evening, and yesterday's storm is still blowing. We see the water from the fountain blown about by the storm, as a guard in fatigues and battle gear passes by the camera on rounds. CUT TO SECURE SITUATION ROOM Robinson and Secretary General Katherine Hitchcock are looking at the situation board. Neither looks particularly happy. HITCHCOCK I understand your concerns, Admiral. And yes, I know that evacuating some of the colonies looks weak. But I want to keep civilian casualties to a minimum in this. (beat) Besides, we didn't give them everything they wanted. ROBINSON (grimly) Madame Secretary, evacuating all colonies with fifty miles of Carolinan borders played into their announcement. (beat) We should have stood up to them somewhere. HITCHCOCK Where, Admiral? And more importantly, with _what_? (beat) Until those new subs come on line we're stuck. And we both know if the Carolinans make a concerted push at more than one point in our blockade, we're in trouble. ROBINSON (pinching the bridge of his nose with fatigue) What we need right now is some good news. General Steven Klosko, head of UEO Space Forces, walks up at that moment. KLOSKO (slight smile) Did I just hear someone call for good news? Robinson nods, while the Secretary General looks on. Klosko presses a couple of controls on the console. The situation map brings up a crosshairs around the Central Florida region, and then zooms in. Detailed icons show various units arrayed both inside and out of the border around the UEO launch facility at Kennedy Space Center. KLOSKO (continuing) I'm hoping this fits the bill for you. (beat) The Carolinans made a major push against the KSC Launch Facility an hour ago. They threw in a couple of battalions, but our lines held. HITCHCOCK Casualties? KLOSKO Forty-nine dead, 130 wounded on our side. A lot more on theirs. (beat) As you can see, they've pulled some of their forces back to the north, and have completely disengaged our forces. HITCHCOCK For now. (beat) Admiral, I want to see your plans for getting more troops through the Carolinans there. (beat, looking at Robinson) You wanted to know where I would draw the line? Right there. She points at the map as we... CUT TO MCKENSI INSTITUTE--LABS The laboratory section of the institute is a flurry of activity. All portable equipment is being crated for transport. Every computer console has someone seated before it, making backup copies of files and deleting them from the system. Kelly Callan is here, supervising. As she moves from one console to another, she stops, stretches uncomfortably, and rubs her back, then moves on. Callan enters the room, searches briefly for Kelly, then goes to her and pulls her aside. CALLAN (softly) How are you doing? KELLY (wryly) I'm not sure what hurts worse, my back or my feet. CALLAN Why don't you just tell them you're in labor and get some rest? KELLY Because I'm not _in_ labor any more. CALLAN (surprised) You're not? KELLY (shaking her head) Nope. It must have been false labor. I haven't had a contraction for about three hours now. (beat, optimistic) Still, that means the baby'll come in a couple of days. CALLAN (grinning) And that'll give us time to keep thinking of names. KELLY Not to mention at least getting to Annapolis first! Cheered by this thought, they hug briefly before Kelly returns to her work. CUT TO EXTERIOR--DENVER, COLORADO Late evening shows us the brightly lit skyline of downtown Denver, with ground traffic moving briskly through the city. CUT TO HOTEL SUITE INTERIOR It's a typical high class executive hotel suite of rooms. The living area has a pair of sofas facing each other, a large vid screen, and a wet bar. Langson is in shirt sleeves, tie loosened, while his bodyguard, Ulysses Young, stands by the door. Young looks relaxed, but you can feel he's ready to react like a coiled spring to any threat. YOUNG (quietly) They're late. LANGSON Of course they are. If I know Donovan, they were on assignment elsewhere before this. YOUNG Perhaps. (beat) You do realize that this may be a trap. Donovan may have decided you were expendable. LANGSON (pondering that) It may be. (beat) But that's why you're here, Ulysses. Langson heads over to the bar and pours himself two fingers of scotch, then adds an ice cube. He stares at the cube as it melts into the liquor. A knock on the door brings him out of his reverie. LANGSON Let them in, Mister Young. YOUNG Yes, Sir. We see Young disappear down the hallway, to the suite entrance. We hear the door open and close, and no voices. A few seconds later, Young reenters the living area, preceded by two people in their late twenties. It's obvious why they are called "The Twins". Tall, thin to the point of being gaunt, both their faces are lean and angular, with an odd set to their cheeks. They look almost sculpted rather than flesh. Their skin is pale, almost white, while their eyes are a deep blue. They both sport close cropped white hair. The only difference, which makes them easy to tell apart, is that one is obviously female. She steps forward to Langson, hand extended. LANA Minister Langson, I presume? (beat) I'm Lana, and this is my brother Lane. I'm to understand you have need of our services? LANGSON You could say that. (beat) Donovan said you'd be by, and that you'd be briefed. Lane steps up next to his sister. LANE We were. (beat) But we wanted to hear if you have any additional requirements for the assignment? LANGSON So the assignment is agreed...to make room for me on the NorPac delegation to UEO? LANA and LANE (unison) Yes. Langson ponders this for a moment. LANGSON Okay. I want to be strong enough in the delegation to challenge Hitchcock for the Secretary General position. I want to force a no-confidence vote on her...especially because of the way she's fighting this war. (beat) The only way I can do this is to be named head of the delegation. Can you make arrangements for me to be Chief Delegate soon? Lana pulls out a pocket computer and starts checking some notes on it. She looks over at Lane, who nods once. LANE Wear something that looks good on camera tomorrow. You'll be on in the afternoon. (beat) And try to look surprised. As Langson downs the last of his scotch, Lana turns to Young. LANA Now if you'll excuse us, we have work to do. (beat) Mister Young, a pleasure seeing another professional at work. Try to keep him out of trouble. YOUNG (amused) I try. He doesn't make it easy. LANE (nods) They never do. The twins head down the hallway and leave the suite. As they do, we... FADE TO COMMERCIAL END ACT TWO Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998 17:07:51 -0800 From: Vicky & Bob Subject: seaQuest 2047/season 3/episode 2/"Vital Signs"/Act 3 To: seaquest_2047@midnight.postino.com X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.2106.4 ACT THREE OPEN ON MCKENSI INSTITUTE--LABS About half the crates remain, and only a few people. Kelly Callan is standing by herself in the center of the large space, looking around wistfully and idly rubbing her belly with one hand. Managing Director Phillip Johnson comes and stands beside her, also looking around. JOHNSON Well, thanks to your help, I think we can be completely off the station before the Carolinans arrive tomorrow morning. (beat) I'm really going to miss this place. KELLY We did a lot of good work here. JOHNSON (grinning) We got locked in an oven here... KELLY (laughing) Okay, that's one thing I _won't_ miss! She stops laughing suddenly and looks down at her belly, concerned. JOHNSON Baby's kicking you? KELLY No...my contractions are back. JOHNSON (a little lost) "Back"? Kelly nods, shifting her weight back and forth. KELLY I was having them pretty regularly for a while yesterday, but they stopped when I got busy down here. JOHNSON And now? KELLY That was my third one in...about forty minutes. Only now they're hurting. JOHNSON Sounds to me like we'd better get you on the next shuttle out of here. (beat, checking watch) Which was five minutes ago. KELLY (wryly) I've always been known for my impeccable timing. (beat) So when's the _next_ one? JOHNSON (a little uncomfortable) The next one's the _last_ one, apart from a cargo shuttle. (beat) They're all out right now--it's due back in about ninety minutes...then we'll have to load it... KELLY (reassuring) Well, first labors are supposed to take a while. I'm sure they can have me at Annapolis before this baby gets too demanding. (beat) I'll go tell Greg we're leaving. JOHNSON All right. I'll see you later at the docking ring. Kelly nods, walking rather awkwardly away. CUT TO WARDROOM Morgan is still here. If it weren't for the untouched dinner tray on the table and a slight rearrangement of the technical manuals, we would wonder if any time at all had passed. Doctor Meridith Burke enters and sits down across the table from Morgan. BURKE I didn't know you were on a diet. MORGAN (mumbling) "...After target acquisition is achieved..." BURKE Hello? Earth to Anne? MORGAN "...Stealth protocols remain engaged unless..." Burke reaches across and waves her hand between Morgan's face and the manual she's reading. BURKE (sharply) Anne! Morgan looks up. She visibly "switches gears" as she realizes she's not alone in the room. MORGAN Oh! (beat, a little sheepish) How long have you been in here? BURKE (grinning) Long enough to see that you _definitely_ need to take a break. (beat, indicating the tray) Eating would be a good idea, too. (beat) If you lose any weight, you'll be slipping through the seams in the deck plating. MORGAN (wryly) Is that your medical opinion? BURKE (seriously) It doesn't take a doctor to see that there's something wrong, Anne. MORGAN (firmly) I'm _fine_. BURKE (skeptical) Oh, sure. There's nothing wrong with becoming a hermit, only coming out of your quarters to work. MORGAN (shrugging) I'm learning a new job. Of course it's going to be pretty intense for a while. BURKE You had a ticket out of here. You turned it down. (beat) I want to know why. MORGAN I'm needed here. BURKE And you're not needed at home? Morgan speaks automatically, as if she's rehearsed this line. MORGAN I've already talked to my family. They understand and support my decision. BURKE (bluntly) A year ago, you couldn't wait to finish your service and get home to John. Now you're deliberately _staying_, and not just staying, but putting your life on the line every time you go out in that tin can. A ghost of a smile crosses Morgan's face-just a brief flicker, then it's gone. MORGAN Don't let Wi-- (beat, closing her eyes) _Tom_ hear you say that about his fighter. BURKE Don't change the subject. (beat) Chaplain Lei told me you wouldn't talk to him. I find that a bit unusual, considering he's been your confidante pretty much ever since he came aboard. (beat) And you're doing a pretty good job of stonewalling me, too. MORGAN (sighs) I'm not stonewalling you, Doctor. I just don't have any pressing need to talk about things. BURKE ("yeah, right") That's as may be...for now. (beat) But, as the resident psychiatric specialist on board, Laura Taylor _will_ be watching you. (beat, warning) And if I find any reason to believe you're impaired, you _will_ be removed from duty. MORGAN (stiffly) Understood, _Doctor_. Burke rises, sighing. BURKE I don't want to do it, Anne. But I will. (beat) You may be determined to self-destruct, but there are people on this boat who would rather that didn't happen. She leaves. Morgan stares at the bulkhead for a few moments, then goes back to her studies. CUT TO MCKENSI INSTITUTE--INFIRMARY Kelly Callan is sitting on one of the beds, a very concerned Greg beside her. Her face is moist with perspiration, and she looks very tired. Various monitoring equipment is near the bed. Johnson is pacing back and forth as Jacob Bender, a medical technician, speaks. BENDER ...All I know, Sir, is that every time she has a contraction, the baby's heartbeat slows down considerably. JOHNSON We've held the shuttle for two hours...is it safe to move her? BENDER (frustrated) I only had one course that covered obstetrics. I don't _know_. But I don't think it would be wise. (beat) I'm going to put an oxygen mask on her; I think that will help a bit. After that… JOHNSON Can you deliver this baby? BENDER (seriously) I don't know. Johnson thinks, then goes over to the Callans. JOHNSON (bluntly) Kelly, I respect you as a scientist too much to play games. (beat) Bender is the last one of our medical staff left. The doctors went out hours ago. And he doesn't think he can deliver your baby safely. (beat) The Carolinans are probably within our communications range; I'm betting they have a doctor with them. (beat) I'm going to contact them and ask for help. CALLAN (protesting) We'll be putting ourselves directly into their hands... JOHNSON I know you've seen the worst of the Carolinans, Greg. But I refuse to believe they'd be brutal to a mother and baby. (beat) It's our only option if we want what's best for your wife and child. Callan swallows hard and nods slowly. CALLAN I understand. JOHNSON (to Bender) Keep an eye on them. I'm going to the control room. BENDER Of course, Sir. Kelly whimpers with another contraction, and Callan and Bender turn to her, while Johnson exits. CUT TO CONTROL ROOM Johnson enters, sits at a console, and turns it on, donning a headset. Pressing a few buttons, he speaks into his headset. JOHNSON This is McKensi Institute control, to any available ship; we have a medical emergency, please respond… (beat) I repeat, this is McKensi Institute control, to any-- The vidscreen activates, showing the Bridge of a Carolinan ship. Onscreen is Captain George MacKay. MACKAY This is Captain George MacKay, of the _CSS Boca Raton_. What is your emergency? (beat, coolly) And may I remind you, that station is to be completely evacuated in three hours? JOHNSON (slightly nervous) We understand that, Sir. And, apart from half a dozen people and a shuttle, it already is. (beat) The problem is that one of those half-dozen people is a woman in labor. (beat) Our entire medical staff, except for one technician, have already been transported, and the technician says there is some trouble with the baby. (beat) We were, ah, hoping you could provide some medical assistance. (beat) And allow us a few hours of clemency until the baby and mother are stable for transport. MacKay visibly softens. MACKAY (smiling) You do realize that, technically, the baby will be born a Carolinan citizen? JOHNSON The thought _had_ crossed my mind. MACKAY Well, of course, it would be our pleasure to render any aid necessary to one of our citizens. Even one that hasn't been born yet. JOHNSON And...about the delay? MACKAY Not a problem. JOHNSON (obviously relieved) Thank you, Sir. (beat) How soon may we expect help? MacKay glances behind him for a moment, then nods and turns back to the screen. MACKAY Our chief medical officer is already on his way to the Docking Bay. He should be there within thirty minutes. JOHNSON Understood. We'll be ready. (beat) McKensi out. He terminates the communication. CUT TO COMMERCIAL END ACT THREE Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998 17:07:56 -0800 From: Vicky & Bob Subject: seaQuest 2047/season 3/episode 2/"Vital Signs"/Act 4 To: seaquest_2047@midnight.postino.com X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.2106.4 ACT FOUR OPEN ON WARDROOM Morgan is still studying. The food tray is gone, and there is a half-full glass of milk beside her, as well as a bottle of aspirin. Otherwise, the room is still unchanged. She looks up from her reading, stretches, then closes her eyes and rubs the back of her neck, then her forehead. DOBBS (O.C.) You think _you've_ got a headache? Morgan opens her eyes and looks up. Dobbs is leaning in the doorway, rubbing his temples. MORGAN I beg your pardon? DOBBS May I talk with you? MORGAN I'm afraid I'm... DOBBS I shan't take long, Ma'am. MORGAN (relents) Well... all right, then. Dobbs comes in and sits down, facing her. DOBBS (waves at the aspirin) Those won't help, y'know. (beat) Won't help me, either. Morgan is genuinely confused at what he's saying. MORGAN I'm sorry.... I don't understand. DOBBS Your headaches, Ma'am. And the nosebleeds you've had lately? MORGAN (protesting) What are you talking about? I'm just fine, honestly... Dobbs points silently to the wastebasket, filled with red-stained tissues. Morgan subsides. DOBBS You're doing a wonderful job of hiding your feelings. Correct, calm and professional. (beat) But I know different. MORGAN I still don't-- DOBBS (interrupting, leaning forward) Ma'am, how long have you known you had Talent? MORGAN (dismissive, not ready to accept this) I don't have Talent, Petty Officer. I have lucky guesses, sometimes, and occasionally I just know things. (beat) Someone...else...thought I did, but it can't be true. DOBBS Not all Talent is mind-reading and parlor tricks, Ma'am. MORGAN Well, no, but I don't... She is confused now, and a bit apprehensive. DOBBS Your lucky guesses... been happening more often, eh? MORGAN Well... yes. DOBBS Never a hint from any psych evaluations? MORGAN Not that they ever told me. DOBBS (nodding) Well, Talent normally surfaces well before 18. They probably weren't _looking_. (beat, musing) Probably latent, then... generally, latent Talent comes out in response to great need. (drily) Given some of your recent adventures, I'd say there's been need. Morgan nods silently, taking in what he says. DOBBS Have your friends been more nervous around you in the past couple of days? MORGAN I've been keeping to myself. Everyone was being so _nice_ I couldn't stand it. DOBBS (nods) But you've been working with Reede. MORGAN Yes. DOBBS Has he been agitated at all? MORGAN (thinking) No, he's been his usual annoyingly cheerful self. DOBBS (nodding) Right. (beat) You're very good at keeping things to yourself... "not opening up"... and fortunately, your Talent follows your inclinations. (beat, rufeul) If it weren't for the fact that I've been having constant headaches and occasional nosebleeds, I'd say you were doing very well. Morgan turns away from him impatiently, as the camera pulls in on her, leaving Dobbs out of view. MORGAN How could you know any of this? What makes you so sure? DOBBS (O.S., voice slightly...off?) Because I _am_ Talented, Ensign. And I can hear your frustration clean across the boat. Morgan pivots to face him. Dobbs looks her directly in the eye. His lips are still. And yet... DOBBS (V.O.) Ensign, I know you hurt. Hurt badly, in here, where you think you can hide it all. You can show a brave front outside, but I hear both sides of you. (beat) Your mind is racing, you feel like the world's gone mad, like everything's out of control. (beat) And if you keep it all bottled up like this, you're going to put both of us in a psych ward. MORGAN (startled, speaking) You're... you're... I can _hear_ you! DOBBS (V.O., nodding) Yes, you can. Without my broadcasting, either... which isn't proof of _your_ Talent, I grant, but established _my_ credentials straightaway. He grins, ruefully. Morgan just stares. MORGAN Can't you just block out whatever it is you're getting from me? DOBBS (V.O., exasperated) Don't you think I've _tried_? (beat) _That's_ how strong your Talent can be. Morgan sighs. Her voice becomes steady as she speaks, but there is an undercurrent of anger. MORGAN Then what the hell am I supposed to do? (beat) I'm sorry I'm giving you headaches. If I could stop hurting, believe me, I would. (beat) But I'm _not_ going to fall apart the way everyone seems to be expecting me to. If you can hear me this clearly, you must _know_ that... A note of pleading enters her voice at the end. DOBBS (resuming normal speech, his point made) Ensign... you are as strong, as capable as anyone on this boat. But if you don't get some training in controlling your Talent... He leaves the rest unsaid. MORGAN (exasperated, shouting now) You _may_ have noticed there's a war on! I don't think they'll give me a leave of absence to go off to the Parapsychology Institute and practice bending spoons! Dobbs' nose starts a trickle of bleeding. He ignores it. DOBBS (pointedly) I _know_ what a rational, responsible, intelligent woman you can be. (beat) _Can_ be, Ensign. Morgan sighs, slumps in her chair. MORGAN I'm sorry. That was uncalled for. I wasn't thinking. DOBBS Exactly. He reaches for a tissue, wipes his face, and goes on. DOBBS (beat, more gently) If you don't give yourself the chance to mourn your losses properly, you'll keep slipping like that. (beat) And if you don't learn to control your Talent, you're going to lash out harder... and people around you will start getting... hurt. MORGAN (subdued) Point taken. (beat) About the Talent. (beat) But mourning... I've had enough. I don't _want_ to feel any more. DOBBS That's as may be. I think, though, you'll find out that feeling is better than being numb. It means you're still _alive_. (beat) You _will_ let me work with you, Ensign? MORGAN (firmly) _After_ I've got the Outrider licked. Dobbs nods, content with this small victory. DOBBS (gently ironic) Of course. There _is_ a war on... (beat) I'll just stock up on tissues in the meantime. With a wry grin, he stands and leaves. Morgan looks after him for a moment, then shakes her head and reaches for another manual. Her hand stops in midair as she looks at the table... and the small dot of blood near the manual. She stares at it, for a long moment. Then she slowly pushes herself back in the chair, looks up at the ceiling, covers her face with her hands, and sits, quietly, as we... CUT TO EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_--CGI Continuing on a patrol sweep, the ship moves from left to right, while a Marauder sweeps underneath her and away. CUT TO CREW'S MESS Riller and Trueman are having their breakfast, looking exhausted. They are both toying with their eggs, not really enthusiastic about it. RILLER (groaning) These shift rotations are going to kill me. TRUEMAN I know. Port and starboard are going to take getting used to. RILLER You've got it easy. I'm also standing Bridge watch rotations and patrol sweeps. TRUEMAN Double watches? Ouch. When do you sleep? RILLER Sleep? I have a vague memory of that. Trueman chuckles at that. TRUEMAN Well, I'd stand watch rotations if I could... RILLER (sympathetic) I know, Becca. (beat) All I can figure is that your early fights are the reason you got passed over for promotion. TRUEMAN Justin, I'm past that. You know it. The captain knows it. (beat, agitated) And if I don't get selected this time, that will be my second time. I'll be forced out of the Navy. War or no war. RILLER I'll talk to the XO about it. (beat, glumly) Great. There's Reede. And he looks like he's in a good mood, too. Lieutenant (j.g.) Tom Reede walks up to the table carrying his tray. Riller and Trueman look darkly at him as he seasons his eggs and chows down. It's obvious he's full of energy. TRUEMAN Okay, Reede. How'd you manage it? REEDE (between bites) Manage what? RILLER Becca and I both look like we're being slowly ground up. But you come in here fresh as hydroponic tomato. So how'd you do it? Reede smiles as he scoops the last of his eggs into his mouth. REEDE Look, we're all running our departments here, right? So we can _write_ our watchbills. And that includes setting our watch rotations. TRUEMAN I know that. But Commander Matthews said to go to port and starboard. REEDE I did it one better. I split my port and starboard into two additional watches...and then I stagger them so they each work no more than six hours, with twelve hours off. (beat) Add to that scheduling my own Bridge watches to follow a patrol, and viola, I get enough sleep. Riller and Trueman share a look, then look back at Reede TRUEMAN I don'tknow whether to congratulate you or strangle you. RILLER I know what _I'd_ rather do-- Chief Petty Officer Sara Percell comes running in, excited PERCELL (interrupting) Guys, have you heard the news? TRUEMAN What news? PERCELL It's all over CNN. Hang on. She runs over to the vid screen and changes it to bring up the CNN newsfeed. CNN ANCHOR (continuing) ...Large explosive device was detonated at the home of NorPac Delegation Chief Eliza Simons. The building was destroyed, and NorPac authorities have confirmed that Simons was killed, along with her husband. (beat) NorPac authorities are not speculating on the cause of the explosion, but sources report that the device similar to those used by Carolinan support groups. (beat) In a related story, NorPac Chairman Ricardo Haynes has named Andrew Langson as interim head of NorPac's UEO delegation. In a short statement at the capitol in Denver, Haynes noted that Langson's recent service within the cabinet of the Secretary General would be an asset in the days to come. The four crewmembers look at each other for a moment. REEDE I should have guessed Langson would jump at the first chance. PERCELL Why not? He's a survivor, too. (beat) Sort of like a cockroach. TRUEMAN Only sort of? Morgan walks in, looking agitated. It's obvious she hasn't slept. MORGAN Lieutenant Reede, we need to be heading to the Docking Bay. Our patrol starts in thirty minutes, and we need to go over some systems training beforehand. REEDE Right. Just a second. (beat, to Trueman) Well, duty calls. At least Greg and Kelly have kept out of this... PERCELL Not really. I'm sure they had to evacuate McKensi like everyone else...and that probably didn't set very well with Kelly. TRUEMAN How is she doing anyway? Morgan watches this, and is starting to get more fidgety. At the mention of Kelly Callan, her agitation becomes more pronounced, and she shakes her head once. MORGAN Lieutenant Reede, let's go. Reede nods once and starts to move toward the exit. As he does, Morgan pulls out her PAL and punches in a code. The Chief Medical Officer, Doctor Meridith Burke, comes online. BURKE (over PAL) Med Bay. Doctor Burke here. MORGAN Meridith, it's Anne Morgan. When you get a chance, try to get a hold of Greg or Kelly Callan. BURKE Sure, I can do that. What's up? Morgan makes a face, then looks at the PAL. MORGAN Call it a feeling. A very strong one. (beat) I'll check back after my patrol. Morgan out. As she puts the PAL away, Morgan closes her eyes for a moment, putting her hands on her temples. A moment later, she opens her eyes to find Dobbs staring at her. Morgan just stares at him for a moment, then breaks away and heads out. CUT TO MCKENSI INSTITUTE--INFIRMARY Kelly is wearing a hospital gown now, and her labor seems to be progressing. Callan is beside her, holding her in a sitting position. Doctor Deborah Hillam is seated in the appropriate place for delivering the baby. HILLAM (soothingly) That's good, Kelly, you're doing great. KELLY I'm so..._tired_... CALLAN Of course you are--you've been in labor all night. HILLAM But it's almost over now... (beat) Do you think you can push now? Kelly nods, too tired to speak, a determined look on her face. HILLAM Okay, when the next contraction comes, I want you to bear down. (beat) Here we go... Callan holds tightly to Kelly as she pushes, groaning, until the contraction passes. HILLAM I can see the head...lovely dark hair...another couple of pushes and it'll all be over. CALLAN (encouraging) You can do it, Kel, I'm so proud of you, just a little bit longer... KELLY (smiling, tired) You wanna switch places? CALLAN You know I would if we could... KELLY I'm not squeezing your hand too tight, am I? CALLAN You can squeeze the left one all you like--can't hurt it. (beat, wryly) I guess these prosthetics really _do_ have their uses. Kelly groans again as another contraction starts, and pushes with all her might. HILLAM Okay...here's the head...shoulders... (beat, excited) It's a girl! Callan hugs and kisses his exhausted wife as we... CUT TO CONTROL ROOM Johnson and MacKay are here. Johnson hands MacKay a set of keys. JOHNSON (wryly) Here you are...keys to the kingdom. MACKAY Thank you, Mister Johnson. JOHNSON We appreciate your help with Doctor Callan. MACKAY (thoughtfully) It's...sobering...to remember that, even in war, life goes on. The intercom beeps, and Bender speaks. BENDER (over com) Sirs? It's a girl! Johnson looks at Mackay, who nods. Johnson presses the intercom button. JOHNSON May we come down and give the new parents our regards? BENDER (over com) Yes, they're all doing just fine. JOHNSON On our way. They leave the room. CUT TO INFIRMARY Kelly is sitting up in bed, still obviously exhausted, and just as obviously happy. Her husband is almost beside himself with pride as Bender hands him his new daughter. As Hillam mentioned, she has lots of dark hair. Her skin resembles her mother's GELF coloration, but much lighter. HILLAM So, Mom and Dad... The Callans grin at this new appellation. HILLAM Does she have a name? KELLY (nodding) Elizabeth Anne. HILLAM Any special reason? CALLAN Elizabeth for Kelly's mother, and Anne for...a good friend of ours. Hillam nods, and begins picking up medical equipment, leaving the little family alone to get to know each other. FADE TO COMMERCIAL END ACT FOUR Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998 17:07:54 -0800 From: Vicky & Bob Subject: seaQuest 2047/season 3/episode 2/"Vital Signs"/Act 5 (end) To: seaquest_2047@midnight.postino.com X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.2106.4 ACT FIVE OPEN ON EXTERIOR--UEO HQ The storm has passed. It's now daytime, and the sunlight glints off the wet pavement. CUT TO HITCHCOCK'S OFFICE Hitchcock is already at her desk, going through the morning briefings, when Robinson walks in. HITCHCOCK Good Morning, Admiral. ROBINSON Good morning, Katherine. We'd like to have you at a briefing about KSC in ninety minutes. HITCHCOCK Sorry, I've already got an appointment then. Can you push it back a half hour? ROBINSON (making a note) Easy enough to do. (beat) Will a half hour shift be enough? HITCHCOCK (nodding) Most assuredly. It's a diplomatic courtesy meeting. In fact, one I'd like you to be at. (beat) The NorPac delegation is coming to introduce their new head of delegation, and present his credentials. ROBINSON (flatly) Langson. HITCHCOCK (nodding) That's why you'll be here--to keep me from making a fool of myself. There is a knock at the door, and Lieutenant Tendrament sticks his head in. TENDRAMENT Sorry to interrupt, Ma'am, but your husband just called. He said you'd better turn on the news feed...and to be sure to be sitting down. Tendrament withdraws quickly from the room. Robinson and Hitchcock exchange a look over that, then Robinson and Hitchcock have a seat on the sofa. Robinson presses a couple of buttons on a remote control, causing a large vid screen to slide down from the ceiling, and a CNN news feed to activate. On the screen, Langson is in front of a crew of reporters, answering their questions. LANGSON (continuing) ...Greatly saddened at the loss of a dear friend, and shining example of what was right with our lands. (beat But do not get me wrong. Ambassador Simons' death is an example of what has gone _wrong_ with our lands. Under the current secretary general's policies, we've gone to war, and felt its effects even here in our capitol. This can not be allowed to continue. (beat) I am meeting with the secretary general today. When I do, I intend to inform her that we will bring a no-confidence vote against her at the next session of the UEO Council. Hitchcock cuts off the broadcast feed, and gets up, walking around behind her desk. Robinson stands and waits for her to speak. HITCHCOCK I have half a mind to let him have the job. ROBINSON Trust me, you don't want to do that. HITCHCOCK (looking at him slyly) What do you know that you aren't telling me? ROBINSON Nothing I can confirm yet. Give me some time...and I may be able to give you a way to keep him under control. Hitchcock nods, then looks out the window. CUT TO EXTERIOR _SEAQUEST_--CGI Still on patrol, this time we see _seaQuest_ turn away from us, as the Outrider makes a patrol loop astern of her. CUT TO WOLENCZAK'S QUARTERS Robinson and Wolenczak are in the midst of a vidlink conversation. ROBINSON (continuing, over vidlink) The tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife. WOLENCZAK I'll bet. (beat) How's she holding up? ROBINSON Not badly. Krieg is helping her here, and honestly I think Langson won't even be able to force a vote on the issue. (beat) She basically gave Langson permission to take his best shot. WOLENCZAK Well, I have faith in her ability to weather this storm. (beat) What's the story on the rest of the war? ROBINSON So far, so good. We made sure all colonies between the blockade line and Carolinan territory have been evacuated. The Carrots are calling it a victory, but I just see it as getting innocents out of harm's way. (beat) I did hate losing McKensi, but we'd already planned to move the R&D stuff near Portland anyway. WOLENCZAK Anyone getting bloodied? ROBINSON Not since the first push against KSC. But we've lost a few merchant ships near the Azanian zone, and I'm afraid I may have to set up escort duty for a few ships. WOLENCZAK We'll be stretched awfully thin. ROBINSON We've got a surprise in store for the Carolinans, if we can just keep them contained for about three more months. (beat) The bad news is the Carolinan Pacific Fleet. They're heading for the west coast...and we're admitting we're outgunned there. Not quite sure where we are going to stand them off...but it's going to happen. WOLENCZAK (nodding) On another subject, did you get the request I forwarded to you? ROBINSON Yes, I did. You realize the problems this is going to cause for us in the future? WOLENCZAK I'm aware. But it's what she wants. (beat) And, honestly, Wallace, I _think_ it's what she needs. Otherwise, I'd have denied her request. ROBINSON Well, I took care of it. Check your message packet this evening, there will be a couple of other pieces of news for your crew in there. (beat) Well, it's late here, and later there. I need to get some sleep before tomorrow's briefings. (beat) Take care and keep your nose clean, Lucas. Robinson out. Robinson terminates the vidlink call, causing the END TRANSMISSION logo to appear on the screen. Wolenczak looks at it, then shifts his gaze to a picture of Hudson on his wall. WOLENCZAK Well, you made me make the choice. I just hope she's up to this. CUT TO DOCKING BAY Morgan and Reede enter through the airlock, carrying their helmets. By the way they move, it is obvious that they're tired. REEDE Good work, Ensign. (beat) I thought I was a fast learner, but you make me look remedial. You really picked up the systems fast. MORGAN Thanks. (beat) No one told me it was so damned _tiring_, though. REEDE (wryly) What, maintaining a constant state of alertness, constantly checking your readouts, knowing that one little slip could lead to the deaths of a couple of hundred people? (beat) Of course, it helps to actually _sleep_ before a mission. MORGAN (sighing) I'll keep that in mind. REEDE Having second thoughts yet? MORGAN (admitting it) And third ones. REEDE It's not too late to change your mind. The new orders haven't come through yet. MORGAN (determined) No. I made a...a commitment. I'll see it through. Reede looks at her, studies her face for a moment. She is pale, and does look as if she's lost a little weight. Her eyes are tired, but her jaw is set. He can see there's no arguing with her. REEDE (kindly) Go get some rest. I'll do the logs. MORGAN (formally) Thank you, Sir. She turns and leaves, Reede looking after her with concern. He shrugs and begins to follow, but isn't through the hatch before Trueman comes bursting in, crashing right into him. REEDE (grinning) Whoa, Becca! Who lit you on fire? Trueman is almost incoherent with excitement. TRUEMAN I got it! I got it! I got it! REEDE (stumped) Got _what_? TRUEMAN _Promoted_! (beat, grinning slyly) You no longer outrank me, _Mister_ Reede. REEDE Well, _Ma'am_, may I treat you to a cup of coffee in the mess to celebrate our long-awaited equality? Trueman nods happily, and he chivarlrously offers her an arm. They exit. CUT TO MORGAN'S QUARTERS Morgan's quarters are in their usual neat-and-tidy state. A recent portrait of John is on the dresser. Morgan enters, tosses her helmet on her bunk, sits down at the computer and turns it on. A flashing line on the screen reads, "You have (one) message." MORGAN (to herself) I hope it's not my folks... She presses a few keys, and Greg Callan's image appears on the screen. CALLAN (onscreen) Hi, Anne. We heard you're staying on _seaQuest_... (beat) Anyway, we thought you'd like to know. Kelly just gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. He turns, picks up the baby, holds her up to the screen. CALLAN (continuing) We've named her Elizabeth Anne. (beat, softly) So we'll never forget who saved my life. (beat) Anyway, we've got to get out of here now. (beat) Thanks again for...for everything. The screen goes black. Morgan regards it for a moment without moving, a slight, soft smile on her face. There is a knock at the hatch. MORGAN (calling) Yes? WOLENCZAK (O.S.) May I come in? MORGAN It's not locked. Morgan rises as Wolenczak enters. MORGAN Sir? WOLENCZAK Relax, Anne, I just want to talk for a minute. He indicates for her to sit, but Morgan remains standing. WOLENCZAK (carefully) You look tired. Are you doing all right? MORGAN Fine, Sir. I studied all night is all. WOLENCZAK Reede says you did well today. MORGAN (flatly) Thank you, Sir. WOlENCZAK (gently) And how are _you_, Anne? MORGAN (slightly upset) Why is everyone suddenly interested in how I'm feeling? (beat) I'm _fine_. Wolenczak steps back, raising one hand in a calming gesture. WOLENCZAK Whoa, it's okay. MORGAN Sorry, Sir. But everyone expects me to be, I don't know, wearing sackcloth and ashes or something. (beat, rising anger) It would be really nice if people would just let me do this my way and stop treating me like I'm some little piece of porcelain that's about to fall apart. Wolenczak is somewhat surprised at her outburst. WOLENCZAK Understood. I'll just leave this and let you get your rest then. He places something on the desk, turns, and leaves without a further word. Morgan picks the item up, studies it, and, again, we see a trace of a smile on her face. OFF MORGAN'S HAND We see the rank patch of a Lieutenant (j.g.). Off this, we... FADE TO BLACK THE END Copyright 1998, 2047 staff. This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons living or dead is coincidental. The seaQuest universe and some of its characters belong to Amblin Entertainment/Universal. No copyright infringement is intended. Other characters belong to seaQuest 2047. Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998 17:07:41 -0800 From: Vicky & Bob Subject: seaQuest 2047/season 3/episode 2/"Vital Signs"/Teaser To: seaquest_2047@midnight.postino.com X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.2106.4 seaQuest 2047 "Vital Signs" by Victoria Morgan Hyde and Don Speirs Publication draft Sunday, October 25, 1998 Based on "seaQuest DSV" and "seaQuest 2032". TEASER OPEN ON UNDERWATER-CGI The seascape before us is peaceful. A school of fish slowly swims through the scene, then scatters as a Marauder speeds past, followed by another. A moment later, _seaQuest_ crosses our view, WSKRS close, at a rapid clip. Caption reads: "En route from MesoAmerica to Florida blockade". CUT TO WOLENCZAK'S OFFICE Captain Lucas Wolenczak is at his desk, surrounded by SEAPOCs and hard-copy reports. He isn't working though; he has his feet up and is leaning back in his chair, staring at the overhead. The intercom beeps, and, without looking, he activates it. TRUEMAN (over com) Incoming vidlink, Sir. WOLENCZAK I'm busy. TRUEMAN (over com, carefully) It's Tori Johansen. Wolenczak immediately sits up, all attention. WOLENCZAK Put her through! The screen on his console activates, and Tori Johansen is seen, looking rather concerned. She brightens immediately. TORI (relieved) You're alive! WOLENCZAK (grinning) I was just going to say the same thing about you! (beat, seriously) I've been worried about you ever since I heard about Philadelphia being hit. TORI (shaking her head) I left the day before the...attack. (beat) I was safe and sound in Denver. (beat, joking to cover real concern) But what about you? You never call, you never write... WOLENCZAK We were right in the heart of it. (beat, wryly) As usual. (beat) I lost some good people, but they kept the damage to the planet from being worse. (beat) We've been in crisis mode ever since. She shakes her head, still not exactly happy with him. TORI You could have left a note, you know. Wolenczak sighs and looks at her seriously. WOLENCZAK Tori, you were out. Three UEO soldiers appeared at my door, told me I was needed back at my boat immediately, and would I please come. (beat) I'm just glad we were already packed to leave for Venice. I grabbed my duffel and I went. TORI (insistent) It would have only taken thirty seconds to write a note. WOLENCZAK When soldiers say "come now", you figure there's something big going down and you _go_. TORI So you left, the world went to hell, and I had no idea whether you were alive or dead. (beat, wryly) And, for some strange reason, I _do_ care to know. (shaking her head) Lucas, we have _got_ to find a better way to keep in touch. WOLENCZAK (joking a little) You plan to find a way for radio waves to travel through electromagnetic disturbances? She merely sticks her tongue out at him. WOLENCZAK (chuckling) Guess not. (beat, serious again) Tori, I have a feeling things are going to get worse before they get better. TORI (sighing) Why did _I_ have a feeling you were going to say that? Before Wolenczak can respond, the intercom beeps. TRUEMAN (over com) Sir, we're ready to rendezvous with the _UNV Wichita_. WOLENCZAK Thank you. On my way. (to Tori) I've got to go. TORI But-- WOLENCZAK Our supplies are critically low. I've got to take care of my boat. TORI (sighing) I understand. Take care. WOLENCZAK (hurried) Yeah, you, too. He disconnects the communication, then rushes from his office. CUT TO EXTERIOR UEO HQ A gray, rainy day, late afternoon. Gusts of wind rustle the trees as the clouds move by, reflected in the glass of the tower. CUT TO ROBINSON'S OFFICE Admiral Wallace Robinson, Chief of Naval Operations for the UEO, is in shirtsleeves and a tie, and is staring out the window at the moment. We hear the rain beating against it, and see individual rivulets of water flowing down the pane. Behind him, there is a knock at the door. ROBINSON (without turning) Come in. The door opens, admitting Lieutenant Steven Tendrament, military aide to the Secretary General. He is carrying a blue folder with a UEO diplomatic seal, a look of worry on his face. ROBINSON (back still turned to Tendrament) Did you ever serve at sea, Lieutenant? On the bridge of a surface ship? TENDRAMENT Yes, Sir. My first tour was on the _UNV Barclay_, in the final stages of the Macronesian war. ROBINSON (still staring at the window) There are days I wish I were back at the helm of the _Harrington_. This is one of them. (beat) I used to love heavy weather, when the sea would push back against us, challenging our will to make way, letting us know that we were there only by her forbearance. (beat) Days like this...remind me of how simple life was then. Tendrament nods, waiting. Robinson sighs once, then turns back to him. He reaches out for the folder, and Tendrament hands it to him. He reads it once, sighs, then closes it and walks over to his desk. ROBINSON Lieutenant, call all staff officers to the briefing room in twenty minutes. And my regards to the Secretary General, and would she please join us there in one hour? TENDRAMENT Yes, Sir. Tendrament comes to attention, then heads for the door. Before he gets there, he pauses and turns back, looking at the Admiral. TENDRAMENT Excuse me, Admiral, if I may? Can the Carolinans really get away with declaring an additional 100-mile security zone beside their sovereign territory? ROBINSON There is some precedent for it. The Israelis did it in Lebanon in the late 20th century. (beat) Son, politicians can do anything they want. The question is, can they back up their words with a big enough stick? That's where we come in. (beat) Get a list of colonies affected by the declaration, and what contingency plans we have for their defense to the briefing room as well. TENDRAMENT I already have that, Sir. (beat) I hope this doesn't come to fighting, Sir. ROBINSON (a little surprised) Why? TENDRAMENT (hesitant) Because I'm from Hallicore 21, sir. The colony is inside the declared zone... (beat) ...And my parents are still there. Sir. Tendrament walks out, slightly embarrassed. Robinson watches thoughtfully as the door shuts behind him. CUT TO OPENING CREDITS END TEASER