defiant: pilot 1 - second chances

8/14/2019 Defiant: Pilot 1 - Second Chances

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Defiant

Pilot

Second Chances

Written By Adam Holmberg

TEASER

FADE IN:

EXT. PEARL HARBOR BEACH - DAY

We face the vast, crystal blue ocean, the bright sun rising over the

horizon creating a beautiful silver rippling on the surface. There are

almost no clouds in the morning sky.

PAN TO

Captain James Wilmette stands gazing out onto the waters, the breeze

flapping his hair. His uniform, which bears a Defiant sword and

diamond, matches the color of the sky above him. Wilmette does not

move, entranced by the sight.

WILMETTE

(almost a whisper)

Beautiful.

Vice Admiral Leia Davis steps forward on Wilmettes right side, her

eyes following his gaze.

DAVIS

(smiling)

Yes, it is.

(a pause)

Sometimes I wake up in the morning and wish that this is what Id open

my eyes and see. Not a bulkhead.

WILMETTE

You could take a picture and hang it up.

DAVIS

Yes, but it wouldnt be the same.

(turning, looking into his eyes)

Of course I dont have to tell you that.

WILMETTE

(meeting her eyes)

No, you dont.

(looking back to the ocean, silent for a moment)The last time I sailed out of here on the Marylandit was like this.

Seventy-five degrees. Moderate breeze. Not a cloud in the sky.

(a pause)

Jennifer wanted to come down to this beach. Theship was parked at the

old Bridger/Hudson Complex over there.

(Wilmette gestures with his head to the left)

Then we got called out three hours early. I promised her wed come as

soon as the mission was done.

(a beat)


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I havent been here since.

ANGLE ON WILMETTES HAND

As Davis takes it in hers.

ANGLE ON DAVIS

Once again staring into Wilmettes eyes.

DAVIS

That was five years ago.

WILMETTE

And yet it feels like yesterday.

DAVIS

You are the one who speaks for them. A thousand voices silenced by your

mistake. Youve got a second chance - a fresh start. You can prove that

it was just a mistake now.

WILMETTE

(sadly)

This is one of the happiest days of my life. Its also one of

lamentation. The price of being human.

DAVIS

Thats part of why youre so special.

(off his look)

You dont need to be punished. You punish yourself.

Wilmette looks puzzled.

DAVIS

You stay alive to pay penance for the deaths you caused.

WILMETTE

Its all I have left. That, and to find peace.

DAVIS

(impishly)

Well, it cant be all that bad.

(beat)

You have a pretty new ship to find it in.

Wilmettes eyes track off screen and to his right. Davis copies the

action.

WILMETTE

Yes, she is.

(shifting gears)

You seen her yet?

DAVIS

(releasing his hand)

Of course. I had a look around yesterday. I was quite impressed.


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WILMETTE

Did anyone know who you were?

DAVIS

(shaking her head, a slight smile on her lips)

Nope.

WILMETTE

And how did you manage this?

DAVIS

Lets just say I was. . .temporarily demoted.

WILMETTE

Demoted?

DAVIS

(proudly)

I saw a rack of uniforms being loaded so I stole one and pulled out my

lieutenants stripes.

WILMETTE

(incredulous)

Really?

DAVIS

(stifling a laugh)

Really.

WILMETTE

Id say I need to talk to my chief of security.

DAVIS

(almost breaking out)

Id say so too.

WILMETTE

(shaking his head)

Youre not serious.

DAVIS

No, Im not.

(off his stare, with a smile)

Rank does have its privileges.

(seriously)

But really, you should be quite proud. I got a couple ideas for the

Shark, in fact.

WILMETTE

As soon as the SecGen uses up her favors.

DAVIS

(innocently)

Excuse me?

WILMETTE

I know you just didnt walk up to Hitchcock and say, Hey, James


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Wilmette wants a ship again. You should give him the Defiant.

DAVIS

(not wanting to pursue this)

No, I didnt.

(turning to face him)

Yes, I did have to make a couple promises. Dont worry about it.

Wilmette does not look convinced.

DAVIS

Look, youre my friend - one of the closest Ive ever had. I love you

as much as a friend can love another friend. And youre a hell of a

fighter and a hell of a soldier and a hell of a man. Some say youre

the best Tactician the U.E.O. has ever had. So doing this was no

problem. On a professional level, I know the U.E.O. has regained an

extremely valuable captain, and on a personal level Im helping my

close friend find peace. O.K.?

The two stare into each others eyes, Wilmette searching. After a

moment he smiles.

WILMETTE

O.K. And thank you.

DAVIS

(taking his hand again briefly, squeezing it)

Shouldnt you be going?

Both Wilmette and Davis once again shift their gazes toward their

right, off screen.

WILMETTE

(quoting)

All I ask is a tall ship

And a star to steer her by.

PAN TO:

EXT. DEFIANTDEFENSIVE SUBMERGENCE VEHICLE

A seaQuest class vessel - Defiant - equal in size to the seaQuest III,

dwarfs the concrete Berth One gangway of U.E.O. Pearl Harbor Base. Two

docking ramps are plugged into the side of the ship, and a couple crew

members are boarding though the ramp farthest forward.

DAVIS

(OS)Youve got her James. Youve got her.

END TEASER

FADE TO OPENING CREDITS

FADE IN:

The surface of the deep blue Pacific. It is night, the waves calm. We


5/50

slowly descend beneath the waves, further, further, until we come to

rest on the seaShark silently sliding though the water.

HOLD ON SEASHARK

We follow it as it silently leaves our screen. Suddenly another

submarine, seaQuest class, races by, our glimpse of it fleeting.

FOLLOW THE SUBMARINE

We follow this strange submarine. It is sleeker than the seaQuest, its

curves a bit more graceful, its profile elegant yet hinting danger. She

is the Defiant.

The Defiant slowly comes to a halt, finally resting right in front of

us, facing us. At this moment the seaShark seal appears. We hold on

this for a few seconds until it dissolves and the Defiant sword and

diamond seal appears in its place. The credits roll:

STARRING

Gary Cole

As Captain James Wilmette

Alex Mendoza

As Commander John Peck

Samantha Mathis

As Lt. Commander Lauren Alridge

ALSO STARRING

Denzel Washington

As Lt. Commander Barry Piper

David Allen Brooks

As Doctor Rance Kindel

And

Paula Marshall

As Vice Admiral Leia Davis

Based Upon seaQuest Created By Rockne S. OBannon

Created By Adam Holmberg

ACT ONE

FADE IN:

EXT. DEFIANTDOCKING PORT ONE - DAY

The docking ramp leads into the ship where a sentry can be seen

standing at attention.


6/50

PAN TO WILMETTE

The camera follows the captain as he walks across the ramp into the

ship, his Marylandduffel over his left shoulder.

INT. ENTRY ALCOVE ONE - DEFIANTDSV

It is a spartan area - a Defiant sword and diamond motif adorning the

curved wall, under it a small row of benches. The sentry, a youngish

man with carrot orange hair and freckles, snaps his heelsand salutesthe captain. Wilmette returns the salute, looks around.

WILMETTE

Where is Commander Peck?

SENTRY

I do not know sir.

WILMETTE

(puzzled)Which way to the Bridge?

SENTRY

(indicating the corridor running towards the bow)

Go down two doors, go left until you reach the central corridor, go

right until you hit a staircase, take it up two levels, and follow that

corridor.

WILMETTE

(with a nod)

Thank you Lieutenant. . .

SENTRY

Akers, sir. Robert Akers.

WILMETTE

Thank you Mister Akers.

The camera follows Wilmette as he makes his way to the correct door.

INT. CENTRAL CORRIDOR - DEFIANTDSV

The camera continues to follow as Wilmette passes various crew members,

all of which he trades nods or salutes with. Finally he slows and reads

the directory sign above, running smack into Commander John Peck who is

carrying a stack of reports which spill all over the floor.

PECK

(annoyed, not looking up as he kneels down)

Why dont you watch where youre going?

(gathering the stack, noticing a pair of polished shoes at his feet)

Who the hell are you anyway?

WILMETTE

(deadpan)

Im the captain.


7/50

Pecks gaze shoots up at Wilmette as he almost drops his reports again.

Wilmette offers a hand, which is carefully accepted.

WILMETTE

(serious, but with a hint of amusement)

Captain James Wilmette. Commander Peck?

PECK

(standing as much at attention as possible)

Sorry sir. Yes sir - Commander John Peck.

WILMETTE

(moving on)

At ease.

(waiting for Peck to catch up, then continuing)

Why wasnt I met in the Docking Bay?

PECK

(puzzled)

I didnt know it was necessary.

WILMETTE

(impassive)

Its in the regs. Would you like me to quote it?

PECK

No sir. I know of it. Its just. . .I havent had to do that before.

WILMETTE

(raising an eyebrow)

Oh? Id like to know what else you havent had to do before.

Peck becomes extremely uncomfortable as they ascend the ladder between

levels.

INT. DECK TWO CORRIDOR - DEFIANTDSV

Wilmette begins working his way towards the stern.

PECK

Where are we going?

WILMETTE

My cabin. Thats what I was looking at the sign for when you bumped

into me.

(regarding Peck, changing gears)

Look, Im not mad at you. Im a pain in the ass and I do run a fairlywatertight ship. But, just because I go by the book more than not, it

doesnt mean you cant get along with me. O.K.?

PECK

(still disturbed)

O.K.

WILMETTE

(ignoring Pecks discomfort)


8/50

Is everyone aboard?

PECK

There are still a few personnel on leave, but they should be arriving

back in an hour or two. All the senior staff is present and accounted

for.

WILMETTE

Good. I want them assembled in Docking Bay One at 1100 hours.

PECK

(distant but level)

Yes sir. Anything else?

WILMETTE

(stopping at cabin door)

That should be it for now. Ill be on the Bridge in a half hour.

Peck salutes him and Wilmette pulls open his cabin door, stepping

inside.

INT. BRIDGE - DEFIANTDSV

We pan around the room for an establishing shot - from the large viewer

on the heavily armored, curved front wall, over the starboard wall-

mounted Helm Pod, the raised level of stations, the Command Plex with

the Captains Chair and two stations on each side, the heavy doors on

the port side leading to the emergency stairwell, and the open

clamshell doors to the starboard of the centered Defiant seal - a

silver sword jutting into space, a diamond behind, with the word

Defiant and the letters DSVunder it. Technicians scurry all over,

intently working at stations preparing for launch. Lt. Commander Lauren

Alridge, a blonde-haired woman of thirty two years, is seated at the

Ops position on the port side of the Command Plex.

We follow Wilmette as he briskly enters through the clamshell doors and

pauses, scanning. After a few seconds he nods with approval and moves

toward the Command Plex, eyeing his chair. Alridge senses him and

turns, her face an impish grin.

INTERCUT AS NECESSARY

ALRIDGE

Captain Wilmette?

WILMETTE

(deadpan, analyzing)

May I assume since youre sitting at the Ops station that youre myChief of Operations?

ALRIDGE

(almost friendly, with a smile)

Lt. Commander Lauren Alridge at your service, sir.

WILMETTE

(relaxing)

How long have you been here?


9/50

ALRIDGE

(looking back at her station)

Since 0800 two days ago. Ive been overseeing the preparation for

launch at Commander Pecks orders, and I am happy to report no bumps in

the process.

WILMETTE

(nodding, satisfied)

Good.

Wilmette pats the back of his chair a moment, then actually looks at

it, an expression coming over him as if he is only now registering that

it is his.

He sighs and gingerly moves to its side. Finally he takes a deep breath

and holds it, plopping into the chair, his eyes closed. When he is

seated, he opens his eyes and exhales, taking it in, gradually getting

comfortable as he looks over the station in front of him.

ALRIDGE(not looking up)

Like it?

WILMETTE

Yes, I do.

ALRIDGE

(her voice never wavers from being cheerful)

I figured youd like it.

(a beat)

Its quite a throne for the butcher of the Maryland.

Wilmette is struck speechless. All around the Bridge technicians halt

in mid gesture, their gazes snapping up.

WILMETTE

(almost whispering)

Excuse me?

ALRIDGE

(turning, smiling)

You heard me.

WILMETTE

Lets go to my office.

ALRIDGE(as if amused that hes making such a big deal)

O.K.

She rises and they walk toward the left Bridge door.

INT. WILMETTES OFFICE - DEFIANTDSV

The bare walls are made of tough, strong metal that could easily take a

direct hit and barely crack. The desk near the wall to the left of the


10/50

door is empty - Wilmette hasnt moved in yet. Behind the desk is a

fairly nice chair for the captain, and in front of the desk two

visitors chairs. Along the wall opposite of the desk is a couch, a low

coffee table in front of that. The office itself is nice-sized.

The door flies open as Wilmette charges in, Alridge behind him unfazed.

Wilmette stands near the front of the desk as he begins.

WILMETTE

What the hell was that?

ALRIDGE

(innocently)

What? I told the truth. So what?

WILMETTE

So what? What the hell were you thinking?

ALRIDGE

(shrugging)

A lot of people feel the same way I do. You arent exactly the mostloved man in the U.E.O. If you havent noticed, half the world is

asking how you even got this command, and I know that youre a head

case. People who kill a thousand people usually are.

WILMETTE

You are the third-in-command of this ship and a lieutenant commander in

the U.E.O. If youd like to stay that way I suggest you keep your

comments to yourself in front of the crew. You got a problem with me,

you tell me. Otherwise, keep your mouth shut. Do you get me?

ALRIDGE

(she doesnt skip a beat)

Yes sir.

WILMETTE

You may go.

Alridge properly comes to attention and salutes, which is returned by

Wilmette, and she turns. Before she opens the door she stares him

straight in the eyes.

ALRIDGE

I know what you are.

WILMETTE

(unimpressed)

What am I?

ALRIDGE

Youre a man whos dead inside. You may be redeeming your conscience

but that doesnt make the nightmares go away.

Wilmette looks truly disturbed - she perhaps hit too close to home. As

his gaze hits the floor she shrugs and opens the door to leave.

INT. DOCKING BAY ONE - DEFIANTDSV


11/50

The Command Staff is assembled in the deportation area of Docking Bay

One, standing more or less in a line near the airlock. From left to

right are Peck; Alridge; Lt. Thomas Wong, the twenty-eight year-old

oriental Helmsman; Lt. Jackson Greer, the Weapons officer, a man of

twenty-five years, slightly plump with a slight beard and a Mississippi

drawl; Lt. Commander Barry Piper, the twenty-seven year-old Chief

Engineer with light brown skin and piercing yet friendly green eyes;

Lt. Serina Martin, a beautiful dark-skinned woman with a confident

smile; and Doctor Rance Kindel, the CMO in his late forties with

rugged, weathered skin and gentle, alert, but resigned eyes.

The door swings open to admit Wilmette. Peck notices, turning quickly

and calling out.

PECK

Aten-shun!

Everyone snaps to rigid attention save for Kindel who stands pretty

much at ease. Wilmette strides in the staffs line of sight, taking

them in silently.

WILMETTE

At ease.

As they relax Wilmette scans them and begins speaking.

WILMETTE

Ive been in the U.E.O. for a little less than twenty years, and a

great many of you think that I have overstayed my welcome. Thats fine

but I am still your commanding officer regardless of opinion and I

expect you all to do your very best.

The camera slowly pans over the assembled as Wilmette continues,

capturing different expressions, mostly of barely concealed dislike,

disgust, and one of almost childlike amusement from Alridge.

WILMETTE

Ive reviewed each of your files over the past few days and I know you

are all near or at the top of your respective posts. All I ask is for

your loyalty - if not to me then to this boat. Were the first seaQuest

class warship, and Command was weary about keeping us that way. Lets

not prove them wrong.

ANGLE ON WILMETTE

His eyes scanning each person, making eye contact with each.

WILMETTE

Yes, I was directly or indirectly responsible for the destruction of

the Maryland.

(his voice falters briefly)

Yes, a thousand voices plague me in my nightmares. It was my fault.

(regaining tone)

But that is in the past. Guilty or not Im here to do the best job I

can leading this crew and making this one of the finest ships in the

fleet. I hope each of you will help me do just that. Dismissed.


12/50

The view shifts as the officers begin to fall out of line and disperse

back to their duties. As most are about ready to break ranks Secretary

General Katharine Hitchcock strides in through the hallway door.

Wilmette notices and snaps to attention.

WILMETTE

(calling out)

Secretary General on the deck!

The command crew once again comes to attention as Hitchcock stops just

short of Wilmette and the two trade salutes. Hitchcock glances toward

the assembled.

HITCHCOCK

Dismissed.

They get the cue to leave and quickly make their way out. Peck, the

last one out, flashes Wilmette an almost sympathetic look and

disappears, shutting the door.

WILMETTE

Secretary General Hitchcock. This is a surprise.

HITCHCOCK

I figured Id let you get used to the ship a little before I visited.

Are you settling in well?

WILMETTE

(shrugging)

As well as can be expected.

(indicates the place where the senior staff was just assembled)

Theyre a little hostile but good people.

HITCHCOCK

You expect anything else?

WILMETTE

Not really. I think well do just fine though. They can do the job -

thats all that I need. If I wanted to win any popularity contests I

wouldnt still be in the U.E.O.

HITCHCOCK

(deadpan)

No, you wouldnt. Just dont screw it up. Admiral Davis did have to do

a lot of arm pulling to even get you here.

WILMETTEPermission to speak freely?

HITCHCOCK

Go ahead.

WILMETTE

If it were up to you Id be out of here in no time flat.

(Hitchcock nods)

Jonathan Ford let me stay for a reason. He was my friend but he was


13/50

your friend a lot longer. So, tell me, why would he let me stay?

HITCHCOCK

(a shrug)

He was doing you a favor.

WILMETTE

(nodding)

He let me stay because Im the best at what I do. I knew him on and off

for eight years, and to tell the truth I didnt understand really how

great he was until he was gone. But he gave me a chance to prove that I

was only human and to maybe do something that would in some way make up

for the deaths of those people. I know you dont like me. Hell, I

wouldnt even be standing here wearing a captains rank if you werent

a very good friend of Leia Davis. But I can do the job. All I ask is a

chance.

HITCHCOCK

(quietly, intense)

Is that all?

WILMETTE

Yes.

HITCHCOCK

You set out at 1400 hours. Your orders are in the computer. Good luck.

The two trade salutes and she silently walks toward the door, stopping

just before and slightly turning her head.

HITCHCOCK

You wouldnt have this job if I didnt believe you could do it, no

matter what Leia says. But dont prove me or her wrong, or Ill make

sure you spend the rest of your life in a U.E.O. prison, Jonathan Ford

or not. Am I clear?

WILMETTE

(smiling ironically at the memory of a similar past encounter)

Crystal.

Hitchcock opens the door and walks out without a word, leaving Wilmette

alone. The captain looks around the room, then at his watch and sighs.

WILMETTE

Thank God lunch is next.

He slowly walks to the door and opens it, stepping through as we fade

out.

END ACT ONE

ACT TWO

FADE IN:



14/50

All crew should be at their respective stations - clockwise from back

left: Greer, an extra at Tactical, Martin at Communications, an extra

in the port Helm Pod, Wong in the right Helm Pod, Piper, and an extra

at Damage Control. The camera pans forward to towards the Command Plex,

where, from left to right, Peck, Wilmette, and Alridge sit.

WILMETTE

Mr. Piper, are we prepped for launch?

PIPER

(checking his board)

That is an affirmative.

Wilmette glances at Alridge who silently nods.

WILMETTE

Then bring engines to full power.

PIPER

Aye sir.

INT. ENGINEERING - DEFIANTDSV

The massive engine core lights up and hums.

PIPER

Engines at full. Power levels normal. Core variance normal. All boards

show green.

WILMETTE

Very good. Lt. Martin, signal the Dockmaster.

MARTIN

(OS)

Control, this is Defiant. . .

WILMETTE

Excited Mr. Peck?

PECK

(slightly turning, with a small smile)

As ready as Ill ever be, sir. Beautiful new ship ready to kick ass.

What more could you ask for?

WILMETTE

My thoughts exactly.

MARTIN(OS)

The Dockmaster has cleared us.

WILMETTE

(with a nod, looking a bit nervous)

Mr. Wong, back us out, nice and easy.

WONG

(a bit nervous himself)


15/50

Aye sir. Nice and easy.

EXT. DEFIANT

Slowly the massive warship pulls out of dock, a small crowd of media

and U.E.O. personnel assembled, cheering.

EXT. DEFIANT- NEW ANGLE

The ships nose has cleared the dock and she slows, parallel to the

shore.


Angle on Wilmette, eyes fixed on his screen.

WILMETTE

Take us out. Half speed ahead.

EXT. DEFIANT

As she begins moving forward.

WONG

(OS)

Aye sir.

EXT. DEFIANT- NEW ANGLE

As she gracefully streams toward the opening of the bay. Suddenly, a

large cargo ship comes out of nowhere, heading straight toward the

Defiant.


As the lights suddenly flicker, and the hum of the engines kicks out.

WILMETTE

The hell!? Mr. Piper?

PIPER

(frantically tapping controls)

The engines just shut down! I cant bring them back up.

WILMETTE

(an alarm starts buzzing in the background as he speaks)

Can you do anything about it?

PIPER

Its a loose relay. Ill dispatch someone to fix it.

As Piper presses the comm button on his console, Wong looks up urgently.

WONG

Captain!

WILMETTE


16/50

(turning)

Yes Lieutenant?

WONG

(panicked)

Sir, theres a merchant ship heading straight toward us!

WILMETTE

(under breath)

When it rains, it pours.

(louder)

Mr. Piper! I need those engines now!

PIPER

(sweat pouring down his brow, talking into the comm)

Shuster, do you have that relay back?

SHUSTER

(a young female voice filtered)

Almost there. . .

(a few tense seconds of silence)Got it.

PIPER

(checking a display)

The engines are back sir.

WILMETTE

Mr. Wong, full reverse.

EXT. DEFIANT

The merchant ship is so close, almost scraping the bow. However,

Defiant, which has been drifting,suddenly halts in the water, then

pulls back, slow at first, then rapidly. The merchant vessel clears

Defiant by a few feet.


Everyones gaze is on their station monitors.

ALRIDGE

Merchant ship clear, sir.

WILMETTE

Very good. Lt. Martin, please raise that ship and inform them of the

situation, and after that the Dockmaster.

MARTIN

(OS)

Aye sir.

Wilmette rises from his chair, walks over to the front of the raised

Engineering station, facing Piper.

WILMETTE

Mr. Piper, what the hell happened? The truth.


17/50

ANGLE ON PIPER

PIPER

(blunt)

The truth, sir, is that this ship was rushed into construction during

the Carolinian War. When the war ended, Headquarters didnt know what

to do with her so she sat there in dock, half finished. Then, the

decision was made to strengthen our position in the Pacific and Defiant

was rushed to completion. I knew that when I came aboard five days ago

and my people checked as much as they could. We got everything, but we

couldnt do a thorough check, even with twenty-four hour shifts, so we

cut a couple corners - got the ship out on time like Command wanted.

WILMETTE

Thank you for your honesty Commander. What will it take for you to make

a complete check of this boat?

PIPER

Well, we did get to go over a good seventy percent pretty fine-toothed.

Two days working twenty-four hours shifts.

WILMETTE

Four with twelve hour shifts?

PIPER

Yes sir.

WILMETTE

Do it. No need to wear our people out - they did good work for such a

short notice.

PIPER

Aye sir.

Wilmette makes his way back to his chair, standing in front of it.

WILMETTE

Helm, status.

WONG

Were at full stop two hundred meters from the entrance to the Pacific.

WILMETTE

Sensors?

SENSORS

The merchant ship is holding steady at a safe distance.

WILMETTE

Martin?

MARTIN

Dockmaster says were clear to try again. I sent our apologies to the

other ship.

WILMETTE


18/50

Presumptuous of you. Still, it was a good thought.

(a beat)

Lets get this show on the road.

(to Martin)

Signal Control that were departing.

(to Wong)

Helm, take us out, full ahead.

WONG

Full ahead aye.

EXT. DEFIANT

The ship has cleared the island and is moving into the Pacific at a

good clip.


Pan across Wong in the Helm pod to Wilmette standing behind his chair.

WONGWeve cleared Pearl Harbor. Now making way through the Pacific.

WILMETTE

Very good. Lay in a course for Pacifica Strip U.E.O. Proving Ground.

Best speed.

WONG

(OS)

Aye sir.

WILMETTE

Mr. Peck, you have command. Ill be in my office.

PECK

(rising to take the Captains Chair as Wilmette makes for the clamshell

doors)

Should I call you when we arrive?

The camera pans over the Command Plex to Wilmette, who is exiting the

Bridge.

WILMETTE

Affirmative.

(stopping and turning)

Actually, come get me. I want your opinion on something.

The camera pans back to Peck.

PECK

(an O.K. look)

Thats an affirmative sir.


A little less empty than before. There is a stack of battered

paperbacks on Wilmettes coffee table and a small box on his desk.


19/50

ANGLE ON PHOTOGRAPH

Wilmettes Marylandsenior staff photograph, seen many times in his

seaShark quarters. Off screen Wilmettes hand places another framed

photo next to it. Pan to reveal a similar crew photograph of the

seaShark senior staff, with Wilmette to the right of a smiling Davis.

PULL BACK ON WILMETTE

Sitting in his chair, looking over the photos. He wears a contemplative

expression as he absorbs each one.

WILMETTE

(sighing)

Now its home.

(turning to face the desk, touching his captains pins)

Never thought Id be wearing these again.

Wilmettes gaze lazily drifts upward as there is a knock at the door.

WILMETTE

Enter.

Peck enters through Wilmettes office door and comes to a stop near the

desk, his hands in his pockets. Wilmette begins rooting through the box

on his desk, placing assorted pens and papers in his desk drawers.

PECK

Weve arrived at the test range, sir. I ordered full stop.

WILMETTE

Very good. Thank you Commander.

Peck looks over Wilmette, thinking, then turns to leave. However, he

stops himself in mid turn.

PECK

You wanted my opinion on something, sir.

WILMETTE

(closing the drawer he was working on)

Yes Commander.

(an awkward pause)

I was. . .trying to gauge the crews opinion of me.

PECK

May I sit, sir?(with Wilmettes nod he takes the right visitors chair)

Youre asking how we all feel about serving under the captain of the

Maryland?

(we assume Wilmette nods)

You want names?

WILMETTE

Im not one for gossip, Mr. Peck.


20/50

PECK

Well, the truth is, we dont know how to react. At least, I dont.

(he sighs)

Most of them hate you, or at least majorly distrust you. Alridge seems

to be amused by you - beats the hell out of me. But, well. . .the

incident in the hallway. A lot of captains would have thrashed me for

that. But you didnt. You are knowledgeable of your people, and when

they do their jobs to the best of their abilities you show them

kindness, even when you wish they could have done a little better. So,

I cant tell you how I feel because I dont know how to feel.

WILMETTE

I wish you would trust me. Im here to make this ship worth the money

the U.E.O. put into her.

PECK

Its funny. There was an admiral aboard yesterday. Davis, if I remember

correctly. She stuck out in my mind because she wasnt with Hitchcock

or any of the other bigwigs. Well, she stopped me in the hallway to ask

for directions, and we spoke for a moment. She figured out who I was

and she told me that she had served with you at one point. She told methat you needed to learn to forgive yourself but that you were all

right. It was refreshing to find another officer saying something good

about you.

WILMETTE

And you wanted to give me a chance?

PECK

Actually, I did.

WILMETTE

Id like to think someday we might be friends. But, for now, all I ask

is your loyalty. That goes for the whole crew.

PECK

I think I can manage that, sir.

(a sly smile)

And, the rest of the crew can try. At least for a week or two.

WILMETTE

Is there something I should infer from that?

PECK

(innocently)

No sir. Just that ten requests for transfer I received over the past

few days have gone mysteriously AWOL. If one was to check the garbage

system, one might find them.

WILMETTE

(grinning)

If one was to check.

PECK

(returning the grin)

Exactly Captain.


21/50

Suddenly, the intercom comes to life with Alridges voice.

MARTIN

(filtered)

General Quarters, General Quarters! Captain to the Bridge!

Wilmette springs from his chair and Peck follows him toward the door.


Wilmette and Peck enter through the clamshell doors, taking their

positions as crew members quickly move about.

WILMETTE

Report.

ALRIDGE

(all business)

We detected a commercial sub, the Albatani, in distress, ten and a half

klicks away. They claim to have come under attack by unknown enemy

forces.

WILMETTE

Mr. Peck?

PECK

(reading his station screen)

Their ID checks out. Medium-sized cargo sub registered to Paradine

Systems, a U.E.O. parts supplier.

(a pause)

The computers were using are Paradine models.

WILMETTE

(dryly)

Remind me to compliment them after we save them.

(to Wong)

Helm, set a course for that sub in distress. Maximum speed.

WONG

(OS)

Aye sir.

WILMETTE

Sensors, use those fancy new scanners of ours and tell me if you detect

any other ships or anomalies in the area.

SENSORS

(OS)Scanning.

WILMETTE

Whats the condition of the other ship?

ALRIDGE

Well, their engines are out, and theyve taken some water.

ANGLE ON ALRIDGES SCREEN


22/50

The display flickers between different high resolution scans of a

sleek, bullet-shaped craft.

ALRIDGE

(OS)

Plenty of people-sized heat readings. No fires that I can ascertain.

The water is mostly flooding the engineering areas near the back of the

ship. The engine is still running, but its output is far from what

should be.

ANGLE ON WILMETTE

WILMETTE

All that from one sensor cluster. It seems that Mr. Wolenczaks

scanning array was not the waste of money everyone thought it would be.

(a beat)

Sensors, report.

SENSORS

No other vessels detected, sir.

WILMETTE

Very good. Helm, time to arrival.

WONG

Thirty seconds.

EXT. DEFIANT

Beginning to slow as it gets closer to a dim shape floating above the

surface of the ocean floor.

WONG

(OS)

We have arrived.


Focusing on Wilmette, who is studying his station screen.

WILMETTE

Put it on the main viewer.

ANGLE ON MAIN VIEWER

The image of the floating ship appears on the fair-sized, gently

sloping viewer.

WILMETTE

(stepping into the picture)

Hail them.

MARTIN

(OS)

Aye sir.


23/50

Wilmette turns and proceeds to the front of Pipers station.

WILMETTE

Have you looked over the scans?

PIPER

Yes sir.

(anticipating)

Can we fix them? Without going aboard, Id say so. Trouble is,

engineering is under water. Ill have to reroute control to another

location and pump out the water, then try to get the engines online.

WILMETTE

Is the ship in any danger?

PIPER

Not immediately, but the whole back section is a little shaky. I need

to get a team in and weld some of the cracks. But, I can do a quick

patch job - good enough to get them back into port.

MARTIN(OS)

Sir, Ive raised the Albatani.

WILMETTE

(turning and moving toward the area in front of the Command Plex)

On screen.

ANGLE ON MAIN VIEWER

(cut between the screen and Wilmette as necessary)

A man in his early fifties with grayish hair and a rugged face pops on,

the control area behind him in shambles as battered crew membersworkto make hasty repairs.

HARRIS

Im Captain Marshall Harris of the Albatani, registered to Paradine

Systems Corporation.

WILMETTE

James Wilmette, CO of Defiant DSV. We picked up your distress call.

What attacked you?

HARRIS

Wilmette, huh? Same Wilmette that got half his crew killed?

WILMETTE(fighting back rage)

Thats right. Do you have a problem with that?

HARRIS

Well, aside from the Angel of Death personified coming to my rescue, no.

SERIES OF QUICK CUTS

Peck pushing down an angry retort, Alridges lips upturned sadistically


24/50

as she focuses on Wilmette, Piper a bit shocked, Martin neutral.

BACK TO WILMETTE

Swallowing, mentally counting to ten.

WILMETTE

If you wouldnt mind shutting up Captain Harris, well proceed with

saving your ass.

HARRIS

Well, get to it then. Though Ill thank you when we get out of this

alive.

WILMETTE

(gritting his teeth)

Well send an engineering crew over to help repair your vessel. Expect

them in twenty minutes.

(before Harris can respond)

Defiant out.

Wilmette spins on his heel, striding over to his chair, the eyes of

each member of the Bridge crew following him.

WILMETTE

(pissed, motioning with his head)

Peck, Piper, in my office now.

Piper rises from his chair, an extra taking over. He shoots Peck a look

of uh oh and the two follow the captain off the Bridge.


The door swings open and Wilmette almost runs in, followed by Peck and

Piper. Peck shuts the door quietly and the two men watch Wilmette

proceed behind his desk.

NEW ANGLE - WILMETTE

Who is gesturing, enraged.

WILMETTE

That self righteous son of a bitch! Who the hell does he think he is?

(he takes a deep breath, slowly releases it, gripping the back of his

chair as he looks at his two officers)

Mr. Piper, how many shuttles should you need?

PIPER(a little fazed)

One Dragonfly should do. Ill be taking five of my people. My

assistant, Lt. Shuster, will stand in while Im gone.

WILMETTE

Im going too.

PECK

You sure thats wise?


25/50

WILMETTE

What he said was true, condescending tone or not. I better get used to

it if Im going to last long as a captain. Besides, how can I send my

people to a place where I wouldnt go?

PECK

I can go, sir.

WILMETTE

Commander Peck, I need someone here I can trust. And someone I know

wont take off without me.

PECK

Someone to watch Alridge?

WILMETTE

Affirmative.

(noticing Piper)

Well talk about this later Mr. Peck.

(switching gears)Call down to Docking Bay One and have a Dragonfly prepped and ready to

launch at. . .

(looking at his watch)

. . .1425.

PECK

Aye sir.

WILMETTE

Mr. Piper, prepare your team. Well depart at 1430. Call me when youre

ready.

PIPER

Thats an affirmative.

WILMETTE

Dismissed.

Both men move to leave as Wilmette takes his chair.

WILMETTE

Mr. Peck. A moment.

PECK

(closing the door and taking a pace toward the desk)

Yes sir?

WILMETTE

We need to do something about Alridge.

PECK

I know sir.

(a beat)

Ill think about it, sir.

WILMETTE


26/50

So will I, Commander.

(a pause as the door clangs shut)

So will I.

END ACT TWO

ACT THREE

FADE IN:

EXT. DEFIANT

Stationary near the Albatani.


A large Dragonfly Multipurpose Shuttle sits in the middle of the

spherical submergible launch bay adjacent to the hull-side bay doors.

The craft is long with gently sloping sides and an impressive engine

complex on the rear. Two young workers load equipment into the

shuttles back storage area.

INT. DRAGONFLY CONTROL AREA

Wilmette is seated in the right pilots chair, comparing various

instrument readings to a pre-launch checklist. After a few seconds, the

rear door opens to admit Piper, who smiles slightly.

PIPER

All the equipment has been loaded on, and my people are all strapped in.

WILMETTE

(with a nod)

Very good.

(after a second)

Pre-launch check complete.

PIPER

(taking his seat)

Then we should get going.

WILMETTE

Doors secure?

PIPER

All lights read green.

WILMETTE(hitting a console switch)

Savior to Heaven.


Peck is seated in Wilmettes chair.

PECK

Heaven here.


27/50

INT. DRAGONFLY CONTROL AREA

WILMETTE

We are prepped and ready for launch.


Peck shoots Alridge a glance and gets a nod back.

PECK

Bay seals show green.

(Alridge hits a control)

Flooding bay.


Water is pouring into the bay through head-sized circular ports in the

walls. The water level is rising quickly around the shuttle.

EXT. DEFIANT

The Dragonfly exits the starboard side doors, swinging away from the

ship, towards the Albatani.

INT. ALBATANIAIRLOCK CORRIDOR

A small, square area set off from the main corridor. A young man in an

orange Paradine Systems Transport uniform opens the airlock door as

soon as the green light above it registers. Wilmette steps out,

followed by Piper and a couple engineering techs. He approaches Captain

Harris, who leans on a wooden cane.

WILMETTE

Captain Harris.

(indicating Piper)

This is my Chief Engineer Barry Piper.

HARRIS

Good to meet you Mr. Piper.

(patting a tall comely woman with orange hair on his right)

My Head of Engineering Margie Tyers. I guess shell be working with you

Mr. Piper.

PIPER

(extending his hand, which Tyers takes)

Good to meet you maam. What needs fixing?

The two begin speaking in the background, and Harris and Wilmette move

away to speak. Behind them some Albatani crew members patch a scorched

panel in the side wall.

WILMETTE

What happened to you?

HARRIS

They came out of nowhere - two of them. We detected them a good time


28/50

before they arrived, and we tried to raise them on the radio, of

course, but they didnt respond. Just kept bearing down on us fast. We

tried to run but it was no use - they were on us before we could even

get off a distress call.

WILMETTE

Could you ID the attackers?

HARRIS

(shaking his head)

Wish I could. Ive never seen ships like that before - at least not

outside of the U.E.O. One was a vague rip off of the Macronesian design

- I say rip off because it looked quite sleeker than anything theyve

ever had, and it didnt have Mac colors. The other, well, it looked

like a seaQuest class.

WILMETTE

SeaQuest class?

HARRIS

Not exactly, but just enough to make the comparison.(beat)

Black as sin. And God, it was fast. One minute its five hundred klicks

away, the next, its right on top, firing torpedoes at eight per salvo.

Hell, it could give you a run for your money.

WILMETTE

(a bit prideful)

I think the Defiant can take care of itself. But, I dont know of any

craft, U.E.O. or otherwise, that has that description. There are

currently two seaQuest class vessels, and the whereabouts of both are

well known - ones sitting off your bow.

(sighing)

Did you happen to track their course?

HARRIS

Between the bulkheads blowing out you mean?

(softening)

It was a fair question. They were heading northeast, last they were on

our scanners. They veered off after they attacked us - thought we were

done for, perhaps. It seemed that they were on that course when we

first detected them too.

WILMETTE

Its not much, but its something.

HARRIS

I can uplink the data we have to your ship after the repairs.

WILMETTE

It would be a help.

(glancing over Harris shoulder)

Commander Piper, have the two of you got your game plan together?

ANGLE ON WILMETTE, PIPER, HARRIS, AND TYERS

All standing in a semicircle.


29/50

PIPER

I think so sir. The attackers got a couple good hits in but nothing we

cant patch until they get back to port. The hardest part will be

bilging the Engine Room out - we have to cut through the doors and seal

the pipes so we dont flood the rest of the ship.

TYERS

We can attach the pumps to the ballast system, create a pressurized

system with a minimum of fuss. Our people werein the process of doingjust that when you arrived. Then we can repair the engines and be on

our way.

HARRIS

Captain Wilmette, would you be willing to escort us back to port? We

were en route to Pearl Harbor when we were attacked. Wouldnt want them

to come back for a second try. . .

(slightly provoking)

Would we?

WILMETTE(ignoring Harris tone)

No, we wouldnt.

(to Piper)

How long?

PIPER

Well set up in the Tool and Part Room, next to the Engine Room. We

have to engage the auxiliary circuits - power to that section got

knocked out when the mains got flooded.

(deferring to Harris)

With your permission.

HARRIS

Go right ahead, Mr. Piper. Ill be glad when the ship is working tip-

top again.

PIPER

Then lets get to work. Ms. Tyers?

With Tyers nod they begin to break ranks, but Wilmette stops them.

WILMETTE

Mr. Piper, would you mind if I helped out?

PIPER

(surprised)

No, sir. Glad to have an extra pair of hands. You can help engage thecircuits.

HARRIS

Then, while you work, Ill be on the Bridge.

They break the semicircle and depart, Harris moving forward, the other

three moving aft.

INT. ENGINEERING CORRIDOR


30/50

Piper and Wilmette stand next to an open panel in the wall with a

couple switches inside.A green light and red light sit together, thered light on.

PIPER

(pointing as he speaks)

Now, sir. There is another one of these in the corridor on the other

side of the ship. We need to pull this switch simultaneously. If were

in sync, the light should turn green, and the engines section should

regain power.

WILMETTE

Sounds easy enough. O.K.

Wilmette moves to depart, but Piper catches him.

PIPER

Sir, why are you doing this? Really?

WILMETTEReally?

(a beat)

Because I hate standing around when I can do a job. Youll find that

Im not one to sit down when its time to stand.

(grinning)

And because I want to prove that son of a bitch Harris wrong about me.

(beat)

So, lets get to work.

PIPER

(grinning)

Aye sir.

INT. ENGINEERING HALLWAY - OTHER SIDE OF SHIP

Wilmette steps onto the screen and walks over to the panel. After

opening it he takes out his PCR(Personal Communications Receiver).

Punching a button he begins speaking.

WILMETTE

Wilmette to Piper.

PIPER

(filtered)

Piper here, sir.

WILMETTEMr. Piper, Im at the panel. Well do this on your count.

PIPER

(filtered)

O.K. Captain. Got your hand on the second switch?

WILMETTE

(placing his finger on the second power switch)

Affirmative.


31/50

PIPER

(filtered)

O.K. then. Flip on the three. One. Two. Three.

Wilmette flips the switch and the light goes green. The captain nods

approvingly.

WILMETTE

Mission accomplished Mr. Piper.

(spotting something on the wall)

Ill be there in two.

PIPER

(filtered)

Ill be in the Tool Room. Piper out.

Wilmette switches his PCR off and walks over to the wall comm unit. He

examines it and punches a button.

WILMETTEWilmette to Bridge.

HARRIS

(filtered)

Captain Wilmette. How goes the repairs?

WILMETTE

We just rerouted power back to the engines section. Well be bilging

the Engine Room shortly, and after we complete repairsyou can be onyour way.

HARRIS

(filtered)

Thank you Captain Wilmette. Its good to know you still help your

allies instead of blowing them up.

WILMETTE

(sadistic smile)

Glad to be of service. By the way Captain Harris, if you ever need

anythingfrom the U.E.O., Id be happy if you called me personally.

Ill be more than happy to take care of it.

HARRIS

(his voice level)

Thank you Captain Wilmette. I hope you get the repairs done. . .

quickly. Harris out.

Wilmette gives a little smirk.

WILMETTE

My father always said, Kill em with kindness.

He walks off the screen.



32/50

Wilmette walks toward the Tool Room, nodding at Tyers as he passes the

now-closed auxiliary power control panel. Tyers nods, then pauses.

TYERS

Captain Wilmette, I want to apologize for my captains remarks. I have

to admit to sharing his opinion, but he had no right to say what he did.

WILMETTE

(shrugging)

The past always follows us wherever we go. If I cant accept that I

shouldnt be here. But, thanks for the thought.

Tyers looks as if shes going to say something further, but she simply

nods and begins moving forward again. As she disappears from view there

is a loud crash of metal and the rush of water from the Tool Room.

Wilmettes head jerks up, and he races down the corridor.

INT. TOOL AND PARTS ROOM

The Tool and Parts Room is about twenty by fifteen feet, with two

sealed doors on each end that lead into the Engine Room. Shelves andcabinets are all over, and some assorted tools lay on countertops.

Piper is laying in the center of the room, a large roof beam pinning

his leg but not crushing it. Water is streaming in from the ceiling,

wetting Piper as Wilmette races in.

WILMETTE

What happened?

PIPER

I was welding a seam in the ceiling and it gave way.

WILMETTE

We need to get you out of here.

PIPER

You have to seal the auxiliary circuits off.

WILMETTE

First. . .

PIPER

No sir. That water is streaming in. The ceiling is going to go - were

right next to the outside. The water will start pouring in. If the

auxiliary circuits are flooded were screwed.

WILMETTE

(frowning, thinking for a moment, then conceding)O.K. What do I do?

PIPER

(indicating a panel at the back wall)

The procedure is threefold. First, lock out the emergency doors at the

end of the hall or well be sealed in and drown. Then, engage the seals

on the circuit breakers. When youve done that, you have to manually

bolt the cover in place.


33/50

Wilmette rubs his hands together, glancing around the room. The water

is already beginning to spill out the hatchway and into the corridor.

WILMETTE

(nodding at a small control panel in the wall)

That it?

PIPER

Yes sir.

WILMETTE

(nodding thoughtfully)

O.K. Sounds easy enough. Ready?

(Piper nods off screen)

Then lets do it.

SERIES OF ANGLES

Wilmette races over to the panel and opens it. Piper ad libs

instructions on overriding the emergency doors and starting the

sequence to seal the circuit breaker, and, as Wilmette franticallytypes, the small door on the rectangular breaker access slides shut.

PIPER

Get a Philips Head screwdriver out of the cabinet next to you, then

lean down and manually screw the door tight.

Wilmette roots through a drawer, pulls out an electric screwdriver, and

quickly tightens the four small notches in the panel.

WILMETTE

(dropping the screwdriver in the water)

Done.

(moving to Piper)

Now, lets get out of here.

With this a large panel falls from the ceiling, hitting the soaked deck

with a splash and metallic thud, barely missing a splashed Wilmette.

PIPER

That was a little close.

WILMETTE

I wont argue with that.

Wilmette leans down to yank the beam off Pipers leg. No luck. He tugs

harder as the water begins washing over him with almost fire hose

intensity. Suddenly, Tyers appears from behind and joins Wilmette. Theylift the beam off Piper and Wilmette picks his chief engineer up in one

swift move.

TYERS

Come on!

The water is pouring in even harder now - Wilmette almost slips and

falls, but stays on his feet as he races for the door.


34/50


As Wilmette exits holding Piper, Tyers forces the door closed and seals

it. Wilmette, out of breath, sets Piper on the wet floor, and both,

soaked to the skin, sigh and look at each other, chuckling.

EXT. DEFIANT

The Dragonfly is returning to Docking Bay One through the starboard

side doors. The Albatani is no longer taking water.


All are present except Piper and Peck, the latters seat empty and an

extra in for Piper. Wilmette is seated in his chair wearing a clean,

dry uniform - one could not tell he was soaked not too long ago. His

eyes are focused on the viewer.

HARRIS

(OS)

Tyers and her people are getting the tool room pumped out as we speak.She says itll only be an hours delay in repairing the main circuits.

Then well be on our way.

WILMETTE

Are you sure you dont want us to stick around?

ANGLE ON VIEWER

HARRIS

No. Well be fine. I think a seaQuest class vessel would only attract

attention. Well be gone in only a couple hours.

(shifting gears)

Captain, I hold no ill will against you for the Maryland- though, as a

fellow captain, I resent the fact that youre still in that seat.

However, you did good work. Tyers told me how you risked yourself to

get your manout. Good work today. And thank you.WILMETTE

(grinning slightly)

No problem Captain Harris. Take care. Defiant out.

The light from the viewer disappears from Wilmettes face and he subtly

smiles to himself. Finally, his head jerks up, his demeanor once again

all business as he rises from the chair.

WILMETTE

Im going to supper. Commander Alridge, the Bridge is yours until theshift change.

ALRIDGE

Should I send Commander Peck down when he returns from below?

WILMETTE

(almost happily)

Please do Ms. Alridge. Please do.


35/50

INT. MESS HALL - DEFIANTDSV

A fair-sized room pretty full at this time of the day. The camera pans

over the buffet line to Wilmette, seated at a table in the center of

the room, sipping a cup of coffee and thoughtfully eating a few pieces

of cinnamon toast. As we move closer a uniformed shoulder appears in

front.

PIPER

(OS)

Doing O.K., sir?

WILMETTE

(gesturing for Piper to sit)

Just tired. Hows the ankle?

PIPER

Good. Doc Kindel gave me a clean bill of health. Just told me to take

it easy for a couple days. It was a glancing blow.

WILMETTEThats good. Wouldnt want my best engineer down too long, after all.

PIPER

(grinning)

No sir, you wouldnt.

(changing the subject, the smile disappearing)

I just. . .The MarylandIncident was a terrible tragedy, and you are at

fault for that. Youve said so yourself. It was hard for me to look

past that. . .until I met you, talked to you. Youre a kind man.

WILMETTE

(sipping his coffee with a slight nod)

In my own way.

PIPER

Well, sir, you saved my ass. That was your priority. This captain

insulted you, practically challenged you to fail, then you risk your

rep to save me.

WILMETTE

Its who I am.

PIPER

Its not the image I had of you. I figured you for a burnt out wreck,

but youve been good to me - and fair to me - even though youve known

me for less than a day.

(a pause)Youre still in the U.E.O. because you feel you owe those who died and

that your job is the only way to repay them - to dedicate your life

fighting for the innocent. I understand that. Hell, I can kind of envy

it - its as good a goal as any, and that makes you O.K. in my book.

Wilmette just sits for a moment, seemingly peering into his coffee as

if reading the secret of life in it. Finally he looks up, sighs.

WILMETTE


36/50

Even on my last posting a good number of the crew still had trouble,

accepting me - even after a year and a half - and yet youve understood

me in no time flat. Thank you Mr. Piper.

PIPER

(rises, extends his hand and shakes Wilmettes)

Anytime, sir.

As Piper departs a small tear falls out of Wilmettes right eye.


Pan over Wilmettes desk - on which sits a stack of reports, a couple

pens, and an open bottle of expensive red wine- to Wilmettes chair,

its back turned to us, Wilmettes hand holding a full glass of the wine.

NEW ANGLE -WILMETTE

His eyes turned downward to the shelf in front of him.

WILMETTEI really think its going to work out. Theyre a good crew - almost as

good as you. A couple bumps to work out, but when is there not?

(he sighs, pauses for a moment)

Its been five years since. . .well, since I last saw you.

ANGLE ON MARYLANDCOMMAND CREW PHOTO

WILMETTE

(almost tearfully)

And there isnt a day that goes by that I dont miss you people a whole

lot. A whole damn lot. Id do anything to bring you back. You know that.

ANGLE ON WILMETTE

Holding his glass, tears in his eyes.

WILMETTE

Five long years, and now a chance to set things right. Itll never be

enough - and yet its just the right thing. A second chance - thats

what I always wanted.

(a beat)

Tell the truth, Id trade it to have died with you. Id trade the whole

world to be on the bottom of the ocean with you.

(considering)

Then again, maybe thats why I was saved - to speak for you. After all,

no one else can.No one that knew you. Oh well. Thats not the reason

Im here tonight.(indicates glass)

Im here for this.

(Wilmette raises his glass)

Five years later, heres to ya.

As Wilmette takes a sip we fade out.

END ACT THREE


37/50

ACT FOUR

FADE IN:

EXT. DEFIANT

The warship is sliding gracefully down a long, lighted strip in the

ocean, pieces of debris covering the floor below.

SUPERIMPOSE: PACIFICA STRIP U.E.O. PROVING GROUND

NEW LINE: 245 MILES SOUTHWEST OF PEARL HARBOR

NEW LINE: NEXT DAY


All personnel are at their respective stations, actively concentrating

on their displays. Pan to Wilmette, whose brow is furrowed as he takes

in a series of readings.

SENSOR OFFICER

(OS, confident male voice)Fifth calibration run complete. Everything is running smoothly - the

SoftScan Array is working at 110%

WILMETTE

(with a nod)

Amazing.

PECK

No WSKRs. Just a bunch of strategically placed scanners with better

resolution than my vid system.

ALRIDGE

Should we go around again?

WILMETTE

(shaking his head)

I think five runs is enough. We know they work - lets move on to the

firing range now. I want to test the new Hammerhead Weapons System.

ANGLE ON ALRIDGE

As her console begins beeping.

ALRIDGE

We have three sensor contacts, bearing 110 mark five. There seems to be

weapons fire.

SENSORS

(OS)

Confirmed.

WILMETTE

There shouldnt be anyone on the firing range but us.

MARTIN

(listing in her headset)


38/50

Were getting a distress call. Audio only.

WILMETTE

Put it on.

MARTIN

(OS)

Aye sir.

Pan around the Bridge as everyone pauses and listens to the harried

female voice.

FEMALE VOICE

(filtered)

This is the Horus, registered to Benton Shipping Limited. We are under

attack by two unknown craft. I repeat, we are. . .

The voice disappears into static. Wilmette grimly indicates Alridge.

WILMETTE

Are they. . .

ALRIDGE

No, sir. Theyre still there. Took a major hit, though. Kind of listing

to port like theyre sinking.

WILMETTE

Alridge, feed the coordinates to Helm. Mr. Wong, bring us about.

WONG

Coming about.

EXT. DEFIANT

The mighty ship comes around with notable speed and grace.


WONG

Its done sir.

WILMETTE

Full ahead.

WONG

Full ahead aye.

EXT. DEFIANT

As the ship flies forward.


WONG

Time to arrival six minutes.

Wilmette glances at Peck who gives a silent nod. Wilmette nods and sits


39/50

back in his seat.

WILMETTE

Battlestations.

Alarm klaxons sound as nonessential personnel race off the Bridge. The

clamshell doors begin to close.

PECK

(watching the doors)

Bridge secure in ten, nine, eight. . .

PIPER

Damage Control crews standing by.

ALRIDGE

Phantoms and MERCs prepped and ready.

GREER

Readying torpedo tubes, charging dorsal and ventral lasers fore and aft.

EXT. DEFIANT

The ten torpedo tubes on the lower part of the bow slide open and the

laser nodes on the top and bottom of the bow glow bright blue.


PECK

Two, one.

(as the clamshell doors close)

Bridge secure.

WILMETTE

(a nod)

Very well.

(glancing at the ceiling)

Heres to the Bridge dome.

PECK

Sir?

WILMETTE

Technically the Bridge can withstand a direct hit from a torpedo.

PECK

Technically?

WILMETTE

Its never actually been proven.

(dryly)

And Id rather not test it right now.

(shifting gears)

Time to target.

ALRIDGE

Three minutes.


40/50

WILMETTE

Do we have a visual?

ALRIDGE

Yes sir.

WILMETTE

On screen.

(as the screen comes to life)

What the hell is that?

ANGLE ON VIEWER

A dark blue, almost black ship with a vague seaQuest form floats above

a sleek submarine shaped somewhat like a Macronesian sub fighter, but

much bigger. Wilmette steps into view, Peck next to him.

PECK

I have no idea.

ALRIDGE

The merchant vessel has sunk to the bottom. They radio that theyre

stable.

(a pause)

Sir, the lead vessel is firing.

On the screen, from the Mac-looking vessel, a barrage of torpedoes

shoots toward the viewer. Wilmette and Peck race off screen.

WILMETTE

(retaking his seat)

Evasive. Launch countermeasures.

EXT. DEFIANT

As the ship dips to port a series of torpedo-like countermeasures fly

from a dorsal emitter.

ANGLE ON COUNTERMEASURES

As they blow all but two torpedoes.


Wilmette moves as the ship rocks slightly, like a toy boat in a bathtub.

GREERTwo torpedoes got through.

PIPER

Minimum damage.

ALRIDGE

(disbelieving)

We barely felt that.


41/50

PIPER

The hull is triple layered and built in such a way that it absorbs most

of the energy from a hit.

WILMETTE

(reading his display)

Mr. Greer, ignore the lead ship. Concentrate on the Mac-looking one.

Use the lasers and hit the bow section.

GREER

(manipulating controls)

Firing.

EXT. DEFIANT

The forward lasers arc out, cutting cleanly through the enemy subs

bow, shearing a good-sized piece off.


Greer scans his display.

GREER

Good impact. Took a good piece off the bow, as ordered.

ALRIDGE

They seem to be breaking away. The lead sub is moving in - seems to be

moving towards the merchant ship, which, incidentally, has gotten back

under power somewhat.

PECK

The bogey wants a little revenge for taking their buddies out.

WILMETTE

And its our job to make sure they dont get it. Alridge, do you have a

weapons profile for me?

ALRIDGE

(reading from her screen)

They appear to have four laser ports on the bow and six torpedo tubes

under the ship. If they have anything in the back we dont register.

PECK

Itll be a chicken shoot.

WILMETTE

One thing to remember, Mr. Peck, is that firepower is not the sole tool

of a good tactician.

ALRIDGE

And things are never as innocent as they appear. Or people.

WILMETTE

(never taking his eyes off his display)

Ill try to ignore that last part, Ms. Alridge, though you are not

incorrect.

(shifting gears)


42/50

Mr. Wong, bring pulse lasers to bear - try to keep them from

broadsiding us. Mr. Greer, aim for their backside - the engines

preferably - and prepare pulse lasers.

WONG

Aye sir. Changing attitude.

GREER

Waiting for your command.

WILMETTE

Move us in towards the bogey.

EXT. DEFIANT

The ship turns toward the enemy vessel, her dorsal pulse lasers glowing

red.

WILMETTE

(OS)

Fire!

Eight red pulses, in groups of two, lance out towards the enemy vessel.

Four strike home, causing metal in the rear section of the ship to glow

red and yellow. The enemy vessel breaks off pursuit and begins coming

about.


ALRIDGE

Theyre coming about.

WILMETTE

(OS)

Damage?

ALRIDGE

Four shots got em. They felt it, but not critically.

WILMETTE

Mr. Greer, fire at will.

GREER

(pushing buttons)

Firing torpedo spread.

ALRIDGE

Theyre firing lasers.

WILMETTE

Evasive.

EXT. DEFIANT

The enemy ship is able to avoid most of the Defiants torpedoes, though

three strike the pointed bow, causing minor damage. The lasers then

slam the Defiant, tearing into the bioskin behind the bow, throwing and


43/50

bucking the warship.


The Bridge crew grabs onto their stations as the ship rocks. A couple

consoles spark and the lights flicker.

WILMETTE

Damage report.

ALRIDGE

They hit Deck Six and Seven. The laser penetrated two levels - Damage

Control responding. Emergency doors have been sealed.

PECK

They cut through the hull like butter.

WILMETTE

(nodding)

Most of that energy should have been absorbed before penetrating.

PIPER

Id like to talk to whoever designed their engines. The output. . .

ALRIDGE

Theyre firing again.

WILMETTE

Evasive. Dip us under them.

EXT. DEFIANT

The ship dives at a forty degree angle, missing the beams from the

enemys lethal lasers, the enemy turning its bow towards the warship.

WILMETTE

(OS)

Mr. Greer, fire pulse lasers. Hit them in the bow.

Eight pulses strike the enemy right under the torpedo tubes, and the

dark blue submarine turns away, a small piece falling off the hull.


ALRIDGE

Theyre turning away. Seem to be waiting for a moment.

PECKWe did some damage this time.

We look over Wilmettes shoulder as he punches a couple buttons and

brings up a detailed scan of the enemy ship. There is some crimson in

the bow and a little in the stern, but the ship seems to be mostly

uniform blue with light red dots.

WILMETTE

(OS)


44/50

But not enough.

ANGLE ON WILMETTE

WILMETTE

(thoughtfully)

Mr. Wong, bring us around facing the enemys bow. Take us a good

distance off - say a thousand meters - and wait.

WONG

(puzzled)

Aye sir.

PECK

Sir, may I ask?

WILMETTE

Were going to play a little game of chicken.

Reaction shots as most of the Bridge crew freeze, their gazes snapping

up. Pipers mouth drops. Alridges eyes widen.

ALRIDGE

Sir?

WILMETTE

(confidently, quietly)

Its very simple. We charge, like were going to ram, and theyll

flinch, ducking under us as thats the quickest way. When they do we

slam their engines with everything in our arsenal.

PECK

(a bit disbelieving)

And if they dont flinch?

WILMETTE

(dryly)

They will. The bad guys always do.

WONG

In position.

PECK

(under his breath)

Great.

EXT. DEFIANT

The warship is pointed straight at the bow of its dark blue opponent.

The enemy is lined up in such a way that we almost feel as if the

captain understands what Wilmette is doing and consents to play the

twisted game.

WILMETTE

(OS)

Prepare torpedoes and pulse lasers. Mr. Wong, full ahead.


45/50

The Defiant charges at full speed, and the enemy begins a similar run.

They get closer and closer. . .

Closer and closer. . .

So close. . .

Until. . .

The enemys bow suddenly plunges down, under the Defiants path.

WILMETTE

(OS)

Fire!

The Defiant opens up, pulse lasers and torpedoes striking the dark

ships engines, penetrating in crimson and lemon fire. The enemy craft

shudders violently, losing navigational control.


ALRIDGE

(calm with an edge of joy)

The bogeys engines are severely damaged. Theyre burning.

WILMETTE

Mr. Wong, take us a safe distance from the enemy vessel - full reverse.

EXT. DEFIANT

The warship backs away with great speed from the sinking submarine.

PAN TO ENEMY VESSEL

The dark submarine is well below the Defiant, many bubbles expanding

from the holes in the engine area. Suddenly, the ship disintegrates in

a mighty flash and boom.


WILMETTE

Any survivors?

ALRIDGE

(checking her board)

No sir.

The Bridge crew is silent for a second in respect for their dead

opponents. Finally, Wilmette looks up at Alridge.

WILMETTEOps, do you have a course for that merchant ship?

(a moment as Alridge nods)

Send it to Mr. Wong, and stand down from Battlestations.

(to Piper)

How is my ship?

PIPER

Damage Control teams will begin bilging Deck Six and Seven shortly.

Though we got caught off guard by their lasers, weve pretty much


46/50

sustained minor damage.

Wilmette nods, satisfied.

WILMETTE

Mr. Wong, set course for the merchant vessel and proceed at maximum

speed.

(looking around Bridge)

Good work people.

END ACT FOUR

ACT FIVE

FADE IN:

EXT. DEFIANT

The warship is docked in Pearl Harbor at Berth One. Only one of the

docking ramps is extended to the submarine. In the distance the sun is

rising.

INT. WILMETTES CABIN - DEFIANTDSV

Wilmette is asleep on his side in bed, covers bearing the Defiant seal

wrapped around him. The captain shifts and tosses, his eyes fluttering,

small moans escaping from his throat - hes having a four alarm

nightmare.Suddenly, his eyes snap open and he groggily comes to life.In his pajamas he sits up, rubbing his eyes.

WILMETTE

(softly, sadly)

They never go away - even here.


A bit later, likely after breakfast, Wilmette is seated behind his desk

going over a report, a steaming mug of coffee bearing the Defiant seal

to his right.There is a knock at the office door.WILMETTE

(not looking up)

Come in.

Peck enters, bearing another report for Wilmettes scrutiny. The XO

moves around the visitors chairs, holding the report in front of his

captain.

PECK

Brought you another.

(Wilmette takes the report, leafs through it, sipping his coffee)

Missed you at breakfast.

WILMETTE

I got there a little late and cut eating short - took a long, hot

shower. Needed it.

(placing the report in the stack)


47/50

Anything happen last night after I went to bed?

PECK

Well, Admiral Eastons secretary called to confirm your ten oclock

with him. And, Admiral Leia Davis called. I told her you were asleep

and she kind of insisted I not wake you up. She seemed quite fond of

you.

Wilmette smiles more than slightly, and Peck notices.

WILMETTE

She was my last C.O. Kind of helped get me this command. Shes a good

friend.

Peck almost opens his mouth to say something but somehow senses not to

ask.

PECK

(shifting gears)

We have a major new enemy on the block.

WILMETTE

(grimly nodding)

We came off clean, but they could have taken a good chunk out of us.

That ship we destroyed - Ive never seen anything that advanced outside

of the U.E.O.

PECK

Thank God. Who do you think it was? The Macs?

WILMETTE

(shaking his head)

No. The other ship looked kind of like one of theirs, but it was a

little too sleek. I dont think they have the resources to make

anything like that. At least, I hope they dont.

PECK

It seems Defiant was commissioned at the right time.

WILMETTE

The U.E.O. has always been pretty good at timing. How do you think we

did yesterday?

PECK

Not bad for the first day. Kicked some ass. Got to test out our pretty

new ship. All in all, a good start.

WILMETTEWhat about Alridge?

PECK

Lauren isnt a bad kid, though she needs to learn some control. Id say

give her a chance - you havent seen many, but not everyone in the

lower decks is a fan of yours. You kick your most vocal opponent off

the ship and youll lose a lot of points, no matter the reason. The

crew is obligated to obey you. . .


48/50

WILMETTE

But its better if they want to.

(kidding)

I was a captain at one time. Remember? Kind of the reason they dont

like me.

PECK

(smiling)

I should get back to work. Need to help Piper run some system checks,

make sure nothing was jostled loose during the fight.

WILMETTE

Very well.

(remembering)

Have Lt. Martin contact Admiral Davis on the frequency I gave you

yesterday.

PECK

Will do.

The two men salute and Peck shuts the door quietly.


Peck takes the command chair, looks at Martin.

PECK

Communications, open Wilmette Subroutine One-One Seven. Put it on a

command channel and patch it to the Captains Office.


A button on the comm panel beeps and flashes. Wilmette smiles, hits the

button, and looks at his communications screen.

ANGLE ON COMMUNICATIONS SCREEN

The seaShark symbol appears, followed by the face of Admiral Leia Davis

who smiles broadly at Wilmette.

INTERCUT AS NECESSARY

DAVIS

James. I called you last night. Commander Peck said you were asleep.

WILMETTE

Busy day. I was almost dead by last night after supper. Ate, read a

little, and went to bed.

DAVIS

Nightmares?

WILMETTE

(a sad nod)

Even here. Im not surprised though.

DAVIS


49/50

(a bit angry)

I wish you wouldnt have to go through that. Youve been haunted enough.

WILMETTE

The sins of the past eternally follow us into the future.

(shifting gears)

The ship is running well. Ran into some action.

DAVIS

Yeah?

WILMETTE

A couple unknowns were hitting a merchant ship. One was advanced -

looked kind of like a seaQuest class, though smaller and darker. Gave

us a run for our money. Im meeting with Admiral Easton today, though

its too soon to make any deductions. And we destroyed the enemy vessel.

DAVIS

Still, its a bit scary. Who would have the resources?

WILMETTEYes, who indeed.

(a beat)

Hows the Shark?

DAVIS

Its not the same without you. Youve been in my life a year-and-a-half

and youve changed it so much. Im going to miss you. All of us are,

but me the most.

WILMETTE

I miss you too. When does my replacement arrive?

DAVIS

A week from now. Lt. Lara Shelby from the Poseidon.

WILMETTE

Havent heard of her.

DAVIS

She comes with good credentials - not as good as yours of course -

though shes known for having a bit of an attitude.

WILMETTE

(with a warm smile)

Im sure youll set her straight.

DAVIS(glancing at her watch)

I hate to say this. . .

WILMETTE

But you have a meeting.

DAVIS

Anya had a couple things to go over with me in her cabin. I promised

her Id bring her coffee.


50/50

(a beat as she stares into his eyes)

You take care of yourself. You hear me? Next time you have leave I want

you to visit.

WILMETTE

Same goes for you. Ill give you the VIP tour - you can see her in

action. Shes a good ship. Im glad to have her.

DAVIS

Its what you deserve. The U.E.O.s best tactician and her first

seaQuest vessel built as a warship. It seemed like a perfect marriage.

WILMETTE

Thank you. I know you told me not to worry, but thank you anyway.

DAVIS

Ill call again later. Seeya.

WILMETTE

(with a grin)

Defiant out.

Davis disappears, the seaShark seal reappearing as the screen shuts

down. Wilmette turns and gently touches his Marylandpicture.

WILMETTE

A tall ship, and a star to steer her by.

EXT. DEFIANT

As the sun appears just above the top of the hull, bathing the ship in

radiant golden light.

FADE OUT

THE END

Copyright 2000 Defiant Editorial

defiant: pilot 1 - second chances

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