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Choose Another Building!
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Keith Planit
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FADE IN: FX - OUTER SPACE - ANGLE ON EARTH It’s not perfect. The blue of the ocean and greens and browns of the earth do not look as magnificent as they usually would from this vantage point. The camera speeds past Earth through a number of galaxies inhabited by alien planets. FX - OUTER SPACE - ANGLE ON THE PLANET BHIRIRA-1 BHirira (bih-reer-uh) is a large, light-green planet. It glows. It is perfect. On the screen it reads: The Planet BHirira-1 25 Years Ago INT. BHIRIRAN SCIENCE LAB - DUSK BHiriran (bih-reer-an) scientists and soldiers are busy. Various soldiers have the hoods of their uniforms raised onto their heads. The BHirira (bih-reer-uh) look human, except their skin is of a grayish hue. They work frantically in this large metal room filled with computers and lab tables. A powerful ship, with massive rear thrusters, sits in the middle -- the obvious subject of the goings-on here. We see one scientist separate from the rest. He ignores all else, including those scientists and guards passing by, taking momentary glances at the screen offering various facial reactions. Then one guard stops. SHOT FAVORING SCIENTIST AND GUARD We see him ask the scientist a question--motioning to the ship--but we cannot hear his question. The BHiriran begins to type something. INSERT OF SCREEN - SHOT OF EARTH STILL VISIBLE ON IT Various symbols appear, these are apparently alien letters. The only familiar thing in the sentence is at the end: a question mark. CLOSE UP The BHiriran turns to his associate. BHIRIRAN SCIENTIST An Earth colloquialism? (quoting screen) "Doomsday machine." The guard nods as if that is indeed the perfect description. A cloaked official, a GOVERNMENTAL UNIT, enters and gives an unheard command to a guard who jumps into a blocked-off cargo ship, placing himself in the cockpit. Another guard comes in, BHiriran children close behind. The Governmental Unit points to the cargo ship where the children are led. The scientists, noticing their children, stop their work and run to them. We concentrate on a particular little girl hugging her parents. This is Ryx 02 (reez-two). Her father grasps her little hands in his and places a kiss on her nose. FATHER We'll be finished soon enough. Don't miss us too much. Her mother smiles and strokes Ryx's cheek. The little girl smiles and walks to the cargo ship with the other children and a number of guards. INT. BHIRIRAN CARGO SHIP - THAT MOMENT The children sit on the floor of this uncomfortable-looking ship. Each is strapped into a sort of seat belt, which the guards make sure are locked. The ship is given the order to take off. INT. BHIRIRAN SCIENCE LAB - A MOMENT LATER The Governmental Unit watches the ship rise into the air, then, as the ship is still in sight, he raises his hands and gives an order simultaneously to all his troops. GOVERNMENTAL UNIT Guards! As commanded! Take it down! The guards begin shooting at the scientists. INT. BHIRIRAN CARGO SHIP - THAT SECOND The little girl from before, Ryx 02 (reez-two), unstraps her belt and runs to the window...to unknowingly witness the horrifying massacre. Her eyes focus on her dead mother, and soon her father is shot by a BHiriran guard. She screams. A guard aboard the ship takes her from the window and forcibly sits her down. The ship continues away. INT. BHIRIRAN SCIENCE LAB - A SHORT MINUTE LATER All the scientists are dead. A BHIRIRAN CAPTAIN approaches the Governmental Unit. BHIRIRAN CAPTAIN Reports show Kunivrian forces will arrive shortly. GOVERNMENTAL UNIT (looking upon dead scientists) We could have left this job for them. Prepare my ship for BHirira-2. (motions to ship) And now the Avkaree cannot be saved. Set its destruct sequence. They must not get hold of it! This is the advantage we’ve sought over the Kunivrian race. The Captain starts away. BHIRIRAN CAPTAIN (more to himself) The Kunivrians have had their day, it is our turn...the BHirirans turn. GOVERNMENTAL UNIT (to Captain) To be sure...destroy all consoles as well. They mustn't get any information on this. Concealing both models is quite difficult. BHIRIRAN CAPTAIN Soon, only one. GOVERNMENTAL UNIT If Eternity is with us. Yes. It will aid our fight. But it may even be years before we can-- He is interrupted by a thunderous explosion. The Captain orders his men to destroy the computers while the Unit runs to an exit with three guards. Kunivrian forces burst through a wall, shooting everything in sight (they look human but somehow evil). With devilish delight, they kick and even shoot the guards they've already "downed." The BHiriran Captain jumps aboard the Avkaree Doomsday Device. INT. AVKAREE - SAME SECOND There is only a cockpit with one seat -- no cabin. The rest of the ship is filled with destructive material. The cockpit controls are a radio, keypad, and small stick for steering. The Captain thinks for a moment, types in a sequence of numbers and exits. INT. BHIRIRAN SCIENCE LAB - A MOMENT LATER The Captain runs towards the exit through which the Unit left, but he is shot down before reaching it. Suddenly, the Avkaree's underside thrusters glow and the Doomsday Device ascends. The Kunivrian forces split up. Half head through the exit, the others gather to shoot at the Avkaree. All BHirirans present, be they guards or scientists, lay dead. The entire lab is in shambles. KUNIVRIAN #1 (referring to Avkaree, talking to Kunivrian #2) Who's in there? I thought we corpsed all slaves here! KUNIVRIAN #2 Some got out that hall. I don't know who's in this thing! 'Looks powerful though, huh? KUNIVRIAN #1 merely nods in agreement. INT. LAUNCHING BAY - NIGHT The Governmental Unit climbs aboard a ship, three guards close behind. INT. governmental UNIT'S BHIRIRAN SHIP - SAME MOMENT The ship is ready for take-off. A Guard pushes the stick forwards; the ship blasts into space. INT. BHIRIRAN SPACE LAB - THAT Moment The Kunivrian forces watch the doomsday ship, which flies straight up, through the roof, towards nothingness. INT. AVKAREE - THAT SECOND A countdown appears on a small screen on the panel as the ship slowly arcs and begins to head back towards planet BHirira-1. INT. BHIRIRAN SPACE LAB - A MOMENT LATER One Kunivrian guard notices the Avkaree speeding quickly back at them. KUNIVRIAN #3 It's turned back! INT. BHIRIRAN SHIP - SAME MOMENT The Governmental Unit smiles eerily beneath his hood. INT. BHIRIRAN SPACE LAB - ONE SECOND LATER The Kunivrians begin to scatter, trying to get themselves far away from the Avkaree's impending crash-site. AVKAREE's POV - THAT SECOND But not far from the ground, a powerful cannon shoots, burrowing a deep hole. The ship continues into the hole for a few seconds. The countdown reaches 2 then 1... FX - OUTER SPACE - ANOTHER SECOND LATER The planet BHirira-1 explodes-- shattering the orbiting moon as well. The Governmental Unit's ship is not in sight. However... INT. Governmental unit's BHIRIRAN SHIP - THAT SAME SECOND The ship rocks a bit, the guards glance at one another upon hearing the sound of their birth-planet's death. The Governmental Unit, still smiling, sits back in a seat. GOVERNMENTAL UNIT When the time is ripe...they say Kunivr will be ours. A long CAMERA PAN, passing few other planets, brings us to KUNIVR. FX - OUTER SPACE - THE PLANET KUNIVR It's an immense, majestic planet. The oceans' blues seem to almost glow. The earth looks clean as can be. It looks the way anyone would want a perfect planet to look. The Planet Kunivr Today A small one-man space ship shoots into view and speeds towards the beautiful planet.
INT. SPACE SHIP - THAT MOMENT
DEALTH sits in the pilot's seat, the only seat, of the ship. He is wearing armor that is black and sleek, like his ship. A dark fedora, with a metal border on the brim and a metal hoop around the unusually long crown, sits atop his head. Dealth is human in appearance. We see that Dealth is singing, but we can distinctly hear two voices.
DEALTH & VOICE
(singing-- really belting it out)
Thirty-seven Dornks of Blurt on the wall, thirty-seven dornks of blurt! If one of those dornks should happen to fall...thirty-six dornks of blurt on the wall! Thirty-six dornks of blurt...
(both voices continue)
The ship's console is complex, but not too busy. Behind the seat, various armor, weapons, and extra hats lay on the floor, though some items are still neatly stored on the areas along the wall.
FX - ABOVE KUNIVR - DAY
We no longer can hear the singing. The ship continues its flight, it is black and even looks mean. Printed on the side is "BLACK RETRIEVER". Now flying closely over the lands of Kunivr it begins to slow down. Buildings are in ruins, all villages destroyed. All else is virtually untouched.
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF KUNIVRIAN FOREST - DAY
The Black Retriever lands a few feet from another ship. This ship is battered and abandoned.
From the Black Retriever jumps Dealth, a Bounty Hunter who loves the fight. He's mean and he's tough. But Dealth is also well-spoken and quite intelligent.
DEALTH
(referring to ship)
It definitely looks BHiriran.
Dealth's hat rises, and QORT is seen sitting upon his head. He is a small, pink-orange alien with two small, slithery arms and two legs that come to a sharp point at his feet (which are hanging at the back of Dealth's head).
QORT
And you definitely look Kunivrian. Hope ya' don't mind if I rest.
DEALTH
Naw, go ahead, Qort. As a matter of fact, stay here.
He places Qort atop the ship.
Dealth, using his bare hands, punches through a damaged area of the ship (this hurts his hands, but he doesn’t care).
INT. THE SPACE SHIP - DAY
Dealth looks around the ship.
DEALTH
Nines markings?
He tears open a box that sits between the two pilot seats and grabs a sheet with different symbols.
DEALTH (cont'd)
BHiriran codes!
EXT. KUNIVR - DAY
Qort is still sitting on the ship. He is eating a small animal.
QORT
What'd you find, Dealth, and who're we gonna' kill today? I need some cash too ya' know.
DEALTH
Then chase down some heads yourself...
Dealth begins to walk over to his ship.
DEALTH (cont'd)
...I've got to go commit genocide.
Qort jumps down and follows.
QORT
What's the rush? What the wag happen'?
Dealth, climbing into the Black Retriever, freezes for a moment.
DEALTH
They've killed everybody! Every Kunivrian! Those slows killed my entire Sengdamned planet!
Qort grabs another small animal and eats it.
QORT
Not the entire planet.
Dealth jumps off the ship and grabs Qort who chokes on his food.
DEALTH
I am not in the mood for comedy, dealin'?
He places Qort back on his head, his hat in hand.
QORT
All right, whatever. Come on, Dealth, what's goin' on? I c'n attach and pick yer mind to find out.
DEALTH
(sighs)
The BHirirans, the Nines, Went-ak-Orites, Taceans, and Haleeons must have combined forces to defeat my people. They were our slaves -- gave us food, raw materials, money. 'Were not forced into hard labor or such but that was the deal.
QORT
What'd the leaders do with all that cash and food?
(sarcastically)
Give it to the people?
DEALTH
Yes. Well, my people anyway. I cannot really blame them, killed my people for freedom. Admirable.
(pause)
But stupid! I'll kill 'em! Every one!
QORT
Sounds good. The dinks deserve it! What's the plan?
DEALTH
First, I must find out what they've done with the bodies. Seng! My family! Everyone. Everyone I Knew!
(hushed)
My family.
QORT
Hey, Maybe there're some left. I'll attach.
DEALTH
Good idea. Go ahead.
Qort extends his legs and lodges them into the base of Dealth's skull. SOUND of Qort ATTACHING.
Dealth winces slightly.
DEALTH
Give me full concentration.
Qort gently shuts his eyes and lets out a short, raspy breath. Giving "full concentration" apparently is not easy.
QORT
Anything?
DEALTH
(scans area with his eyes)
Naw. They're all gone.
He cocks his head as if listening for something, then sniffs.
DEALTH (cont'd)
If you're giving me all you have, I'm sure of it.
(pause)
If only I had the energies!
QORT
What? What're you mumbling down there? It's diff'cult to catch every word up here. And you don't even enunciate all that clearly. Ya' know--
Interrupting Qort, Dealth places his hat back on, and jumps back into the Black Retriever.
DEALTH (O.S. inside Retriever)
Qort, time to go to the Went-ak-Or.
QORT (O.S. inside Retriever)
Why?
SHOT OF Dealth
DEALTH
To surrender of course!
The Black Retriever takes off.
EXT. PLANET WENT-AK-OR - NIGHT
Dealth's ship lands behind a mass of scraggly rocks. He exits. The planet is dark. Shrubbery and rocks make up most of it. There are a number of complexes in the background.
Qort pushes the hat upwards.
QORT
Is there a reason we're here?
DEALTH
Heh. The Went-ak-Orites are a very patient kind and very intelligent. Have you ever seen one?
QORT
(shakes his body "no.")
And? What're ya' doing? Gonna' eat 'em up or something?
DEALTH
Naw. It seems, the BHirira and the Nines were in charge of the assault, but they couldn't have done it alone. I just want info.
QORT
Gonna' beat it out of 'em?
DEALTH
(thinks this idea over)
Naw. Maybe. But I do have a more artful way to deal with them! And you will notice why I opted to see them first...
Dealth walks towards one of the large buildings.
INT. COURT OF HONORS OF WENT-AK-OR - NIGHT
It's a large round room; Dealth is in the center. Fourteen Went-ak-Orites are sitting in chairs in a lowered section surrounding Dealth.
The Went-ak-Orites have large teddy bear-like ears, faces like a cat's (without whiskers), and all have a paunch. Their neat, matted fur is short and varies in color on each being. They wear no clothing and smile an awful lot.
DEALTH
So I thought you would be the most sympathetic. I will gladly be a prisoner but just need to learn about the great battle that led you to this deserving, free life.
QORT
(whispering from under hat)
Thick and deep. Spread it thick and deep.
One Went-ak-Orite stands and leans over the table a little towards Dealth.
WENT-AK-ORITE
(speaking an indiscernible alien language)
Gladly. Inside, take your time. The Silent Hall of Records.
INT. THE SILENT HALL OF THE WENT-AK-OR - NIGHT
Dealth, on a bench with Qort next to him, stares at a large screen filled with symbols and pictures. There is no sound. The room is the size of a small theater.
QORT
What the wag is this?
DEALTH
Wents communicate two ways: speech and symbols. They have no written words.
QORT
What's it all say?
DEALTH
The BHirira began arming, setting up strategies and secretly communicating plans to the neighboring planets. Each of the five worlds were involved. It seems the BHirira worked mostly with the Nines...
(laughs-- still reading)
and not happily.
QORT
So that line there.
(arm slithers out)
Those boxed symbols each stand for a race?
DEALTH
Exactly. Now come o--
QORT
Read that line to me.
DEALTH
No story-time now!
Qort looks at him with puppy dog eyes.
DEALTH
It says that orders were communicated from BHirira to the Nines and Taceans and Haleeons. Happy?
QORT
Why not the Wents? Why weren't they issued orders?
Dealth stares up at the screen for a moment. Obviously trying to piece it together. There's more going on than meets the eye.
DEALTH
We're leaving. We have more pressing matters which require our attention!
QORT
Yeah? F'r instance?
DEALTH
Getting our tails out of here!
QORT
Easy or hard way?
Dealth eyes Qort and answers with a terse laugh.
Dealth places Qort onto his head, and then puts his hat back on. SOUND of Qort ATTACHING. They walk to the door and knock. The door slides open, and three unarmed WENT-AK-OR GUARDS stand there.
INT. WENT-AK-OR BUILDING HALLWAY - SAME MOMENT
WENT-AK-OR GUARD #1
(speaking alien language mixed with English)
We have located your ship. About to be dismantled. We will show you to your quarters.
DEALTH
Naw. I've changed my mind.
With amazing ease, Dealth takes out the guards. Dealth literally punches through one guard, knocking the one behind him out. Blood splatters, Dealth smirks and wipes his hands and face off on a clean part of a Guard's uniform.
DEALTH
Qort, gimme some extra juice, I want to hear if someone's coming.
They continue down the hall.
INT. HALLWAY OF WENT-AK-OR BUILDING - A MINUTE LATER
Dealth smashes through a door and grabs a WENT-AK-ORITE who sits getting his fur brushed by three female Went-ak-Orites.
DEALTH
Where do they dismantle captured ships?
WENT-AK-ORITE
(speaking English-- with difficulty)
Four down. And Furthest station from infoline.
DEALTH
Thank you.
Dealth reaches into his armor and pulls out a small rectangular object. He places it into the hand of the Went-ak-Orite.
DEALTH
For your troubles.
(leaving)
Ladies.
INT. HALL -A MOMENT LATER
QORT
Three. Two. One.
The room explodes as Dealth and Qort continue down the hall.
QORT
(reacting to big explosion)
If ya' wanted to alert guards, you could've pulled an alarm!
DEALTH
I guess I grabbed the wrong one.
They enter a lift.
INT. LIFT - NIGHT
LIFT VOICE
(speaking in Went-ak-Or language)
Level please?
Dealth presses a button on the wall.
LIFT VOICE
(in English now)
Level please?
DEALTH
What level are we on now?
LIFT VOICE
Level two.
DEALTH
Uh, sub-basement?
Lift Voice
Basement Two, next stop.
DEALTH
Why can't there just be a number to hit?
Lift Voice
Please restate.
DEALTH
(mumbling)
Uh, not you. Sorry.
(pause)
Seng! I can hear them. They're setting up an ambush!
LIFT VOICE
Please restate.
DEALTH
Not you! Qort, you hear me?
QORT (O.S.)
(still under hat)
Yes. Now what do you do?
ANGLE ON SPEAKER.
Lift Voice
Please restate.
ANGLE ON DEALTH ONCE AGAIN, now smirking.
Lift Voice
Destination Basement Two. Have a full day.
The doors begin to open.
DEALTH
Lift! Close doors!
The doors close as shots are fired by the now-armed guards.
DEALTH
Lift! Stop between Basement Two and One.
The elevator abruptly rises a few feet.
Dealth uses a weapon to put a hole in the ceiling of the elevator. He climbs through.
INT. LIFT SHAFT - NIGHT
DEALTH
(bends down, yells into lift)
Open doors.
The doors open; guards shoot. They enter the shaft beneath the lift, hanging onto ladders. Others start to climb up into the lift.
DEALTH
(hanging onto side of shaft)
Lift! Quickly descend to lowest level!
The lift follows the command, forcing some guards to plummet to their deaths. Dealth, diving to the guards outside the shaft onto the floor, literally tears the group of guards apart.
INT. WENT-AK-OR SHIP-BAY AND INCINERATOR - NIGHT
Other guards run to the scene and Dealth lets the fight envelop him -- he's loving it.
QORT
Our business is with the other races now! These slows were on the sidelines!!
(to himself)
I think.
Dealth kills one more guard before running to the Black Retriever.
DEALTH
You're right. I was losing myself! The BHirirans first!
The guards shoot at Dealth. Standing behind the Went-ak-Or guards are a few of the Wents from the Court of Honors patiently watching the battle.
Some shots hit the Retriever, leaving nary a scratch, while others hit Dealth's armor -- leaving him unharmed, but forcing him to the floor.
INT. THE BLACK RETRIEVER - a moment later
Dealth jumps in, Qort tosses the hat behind them. The Black Retriever quickly takes off...leaving a large rectangular object behind. The ship flies through a thin, wide tunnel, heading towards moonlight.
The guards and Court Went-ak-Ors close their eyes, and allow the explosion from the rectangle-bomb to take them.
The explosion throws rolls of flame down the tunnel towards the Black Retriever.
DEALTH
You hear that, Qort?
Qort, attached, is standing on Dealth's head. He's looking out the back of the hatch, pressing his face against the glass.
QORT
Yeah. I think we'd better get out of here, Dealth-buddy!
DEALTH
I don't have room to maneuver.
QORT
Don’t care! See what I see!
ANGLE ON DEALTH'S EYES
The exact moment that was just seen by Qort flashes for Dealth as he continues to fly the ship down the long tunnel.
DEALTH
I'm dealin'!
Dealth presses a button, the ship shoots forwards at an unmeasurable speed. They reach the exit and Dealth pulls up to clear the tunnel.
EXT. PLANET WENT-AK-OR - SAME MOMENT - NIGHT
The tail of the ship hits the edge of the exit, they're sent spinning, continuing at X-Speed. The Went-ak-Or building collapses atop rolling flames.
FX - OUTER SPACE - ABOVE PLANET WENT-AK-OR
Falling into space, Dealth shuts off the engines. The ship begins to slow. He drops in his seat and rests his head back.
QORT
I feel sick.
DEALTH
Don't shoot down on me!
Qort DETACHES and jumps backwards. SOUND of Qort "SHOOTING DOWN."
QORT
(sickened)
Oh. I hope you've got no immediate use for your head gear.
DEALTH
(still resting)
I'd kill you if I weren't so dizzed right now!
SOUND of Qort "SHOOTING DOWN" again.
FADE OUT.
FADE IN:
INT. BHIRIRA CHAMBER - DAWN
A dark, metallic hallway. At the far end sits a grand, shining statue. Portions of the wall slide upwards and four BHIRIRAN GOVERNMENTAL UNITS, all similar to the one seen earlier, are revealed. They are looking down; all are wearing crowns. Each is standing behind a window.
GOVERNMENTAL UNIT #1
Do we prepare a defense?
GOVERNMENTAL UNIT #2
Why was it the Went-ak-Or did not follow? Do they not have weaponry?
Governmental Unit #3
Nothing that traverses outer space.
Governmental Unit #1
What about our home? Shall we send out defenses?
Governmental Unit #3
No. His ship is superior to all of ours -- except one. The Kunivrians were far advanced to us and the Nines.
Governmental Unit #1
We defeated them.
Governmental Unit #4
Through the sheer force of numbers...and speed.
ANGLE ON STATUE
It is wearing clothing reminiscent of Dealth's chosen dress rather than that of the BHiriran Governmental Units'.
GOVERNMENTAL UNIT #3
And the Avkaree threat was clear and present. No. We let this last Kunivrian come to us. Once here, he will be ours. Another trophy.
BACK TO SHOT
GOVERNMENTAL UNIT #4
We will not inform the citizenry of this threat.
DISS TO:
EXT. THE PLANET BHIRIRA - DAY
The streets are fairly crowded. The citizenry resemble the Governmental Units, except the clothing is not as dark and foreboding(nor is the city). There are statues--like the one in the Chamber--littering the sidewalks, storefronts, and park.
EXT. A BHIRIRAN PARK - DAY
BHIRIRANS sit and chat. One feeds some winged creatures. A COUPLE sits cheek to cheek, their mouths not touching. CHILDREN run by, throwing sparkling dust--which creates high-pitched, yet delightful, noises--at one another.
DEALTH'S POV - BHIRIRAN TOWN SQUARE - DAY
DEALTH
This is going to be a lot of fun!
EXT. SECLUDED AREA JUST OUTSIDE OF CITY - DAY
Dealth is standing a few feet from a road, wearing a robe that fits into the look of the BHirirans. The hood is down. Qort stands next to him.
QORT
So let's run on in there and bust up a few BHirirans!
DEALTH
Naw. I have a plan. A good one. First thing we have to do though, is find another head for you.
QORT
What for?
DEALTH
You are going to take control of some high-ranking officer.
QORT
I'm beginning to like this. But I need a place to rest my weary legs, and the base of your skull seems as a good a place as any.
(Qort smiles wide)
DEALTH
Hm. Fine, but don't attach. And listen...
Dealth lifts up Qort, who does not attach. Dealth pulls the hood up; most of his face is covered in shadow. He marches towards the city apparently detailing a plan to Qort.
EXT. BHIRIRAN PARK - DAY
Dealth, entering the park, carefully checks out his surroundings, observing everything...especially the statues.
DEALTH
(whispering to Qort)
Do you see all of these?
QORT
(from beneath hood)
Whatdaya' think? Heroes? Elders? Gods?
Dealth notices a dedication at the base of one.
DEALTH
(whispering)
Let's find out.
He approaches the statue, reads the dedication silently.
INSERT OF DEDICATION which reads "To their Death."
DEALTH (cont'd)
I know him! Mother Eternity! He's Kunivrian! 'Would see him now and then at the ammo shop.
QORT
(mumbling)
Everyone's favorite hangout of course.
DEALTH (cont'd)
(speaking a little louder)
I don't get this. They've collected my people? Showcased them as trophies for Eternity's sake!
Qort lifts the hood slightly.
QORT
Uh, Dealth, if you screw our cover, we'll never get even.
DEALTH (cont'd)
All of 'em displayed as-- as if they were mere dregs,
worthnothings!
(getting control of himself)
Okay, Qort, okay. But as soon as we have a chance, we find my parents. Seng! Statues! They deserve better!
Dealth leans, with his hands, on the base of the statue.
DEALTH
We must find a statue in a more private area.
They continue on their way.
ANGLE ON STATUE
Part of the base is slightly crushed-- apparently by Dealth's hands.
EXT. A LOT BEHIND A SMALL BUILDING - DAY
Dealth stares up at a statue, then glances over his shoulder. People pass in the background; there are none in the immediate area.
QORT
Do you recognize him?
DEALTH
No.
QORT
He's a big one.
Dealth does not respond. He climbs onto the base and repeatedly slams his palm against the mouth of the statue. Skin shows through, and Dealth brushes off the excess casing. He gently places his mouth against that of the Kunivrian. A golden glow emanates briefly around their lips, Dealth pulls away and breathes a deep, satisfying breath...he seems infused with energy.
DEALTH
Yes!
(climbs down from statue)
I'm not just avenging my people now, Qort. I'm going to show them Kunivrians cannot be devalued, branded as underforms.
(looks up to statue)
Your energies will avenge you!
Qort
Ew. You have some weird rituals.
CUT TO:
EXT. BHIRIRAN HOME - DAY
A woman flies through a window. When she gets up, she stands tall and sure -- a powerful-looking woman. She rushes back into the home, knife ready. Two screams are heard: one is the BHiriran Guard's, one a BHiriran Mother's.
The door to the home opens. Ryx 02 (reez-two) exits. BHiriran religious symbols hang from her belt on either side of her waist...where she tucks her knife.
RYX 02
(walking away; yelling back)
I am tired of this! You people have to learn to fight the Governmental Units!
The BHiriran Guard pulls himself up. He's bleeding profusely. He aims his gun out the window and shoots Ryx-- nabbing her in the shoulder.
Ryx tosses her knife, killing the guard once and for all. She holds her shoulder and walks off crying.
A family of three BHiriran children and their parents stand at the doorway watching Ryx(reez). They are all visibly shaken by this disturbance.
BHIRIRAN FATHER
Maybe we'll finally be rid of her this time.
BHIRIRAN MOTHER
We should have tried harder to make her feel wanted.
CHILD #1
Oh, she'll be wanted all right. After this...
BHIRIRAN FATHER
Heh. The Units'd be very pleased if someone could finally tag her and bring her in. Hmm.
CHILD #2
(whispering)
Bye, Ryx.
ANGLE ON DEAD GUARD
A red light, over his heart, begins blinking on his armor.
INT. GOVERNMENT TOWER - SAME MOMENT
Another GUARD sits at a console. One light begins to blink.
BHIRIRAN GUARD #1
(places hand on electronic pad; into radio)
Guard down.
Information appears on a screen.
BHIRIRAN GUARD #1 (cont'd)
Guardian Family of Ryx 02. All information on this criminal will follow.
Three ships exit the tower. While below...
EXT. THE STEPS OF BHIRIRAN GOVERNMENT TOWER - DAY
Dealth is speaking with two very armed GUARDS. Their armor looks closer to the clothing of the Governmental Units we saw, rather than that of the citizenry.
DEALTH
...I am a traveler. I seek nothing but knowledge. An escorted tour will suffice.
BHIRIRAN GUARD #2
Let us see your face. We must be able to identify all visitors.
DEALTH
I cannot remove my hood in daylight. The sun...
(looks up; shades his eyes)
ANGLE ON QORT - BENEATH HOOD
QORT
(sarcastically)
Oh, yeah, they'll trust that one.
BACK TO SHOT
BHIRIRAN GUARD #3
We will take you inside to remove your hood. We will then seek approval for your tour, but do not expect one, traveler.
DEALTH
That is very kind of you.
INT. BHIRIRAN GOVERNMENT TOWER - A MOMENT LATER
The Guards stand ready, and Dealth lowers his hood. As he does so, we hear the SOUND of Qort DETACHING. The hood down, Qort jumps onto the head of GUARD #2 and ATTACHES -- his legs thrusting through the Guard's helmet.
At the same moment, Dealth grabs the other guard, hitting him hard in the chest. The Guard's head jerks forward, he grabs his chest and falls to the floor...dead.
BHIRIRAN GUARD #2/QORT
(talking through Guard, with Guard's voice)
All right, Dealth, now what?
DEALTH
We have ourselves some fun!
BHIRIRAN GUARD #2/QORT
First, I think I need a new hat.
DEALTH
Yeah. You're right. I'll take care of him.
(motions to Guard #2)
It's dark in this place. Get familiarized with the layout and get a new uniform. We'll catch up to each other later.
(picks up guard; heads out)
That dealin'?
BHIRIRAN GUARD #2/QORT
(using Guard's voice and body)
Yeah. I'll see you.
EXT. BHIRIRAN GOVERNMENT TOWER - DAY
Dealth looks around and steps behind some bushes where he drops the body.
DISS TO:
EXT. BHIRIRAN GOVERNMENT TOWER - DUSK
Dealth, with his foot, taps down a mound of dirt, smiles and continues into the park.
FX - OUTER SPACE - establishing shot of PLANET OF THE NINES
It's a bright blue planet, far smaller than BHirira.
INT. MASTERS MEETING HALL - DAY
Four tall creatures sit in a vast, brightly-lit room. Their breathing is heavy and deep, their bodies almost ghost-like in shape (but completely solid), not at all symmetrical. They are dark and their eyes and mouths can hardly be noticed from a far distance.
These particular Nines' stature is equal to that of the BHiriran Governmental Units'. They are gathered around a table fit for far more than four.
These guys like to talk. They don't know when to shut up and always think what they have to say is of the utmost importance. And they always interrupt each other.
MASTER OF THE NINES #1
There are reports of a Kunivrian. He has caused all kinds of difficulty on Went-ak-Or. According to the Went-ak-Or he will probably head to us or to the BHirirans. His ship is--
MASTER OF THE NINES #2
How did they determine that exactly? Was he in their custody? And if so, how did he escape? Why were we not notified of his existence? There are a number of other questions as well. To me it see--
MASTER OF THE NINES #1
The Kunivrian arrived looking for answers. Under the cloak of a "peaceful mission" he checked their records and soon left. They had a chance to look his ship over, but that is as far as they had gotten. Possible they were unsure how to handle a Kunivri--
MASTER OF THE NINES #3
We should have been notified at once. Are we now to assume that the BHirirans and our people are to again unite? I have little trust of any other peoples, but BHirirans I trust the least. Th--
MASTER OF THE NINES #4
We shall inform the Taceans and Haleeons of this threat. Haleeons can handle this easily-- if they can get him out of his ship. I will attempt to work out a plan with the BHiriran Government too. Let us hope this can be easily handled.
EXT. BHIRIRAN PARK - NIGHT
RYX 02 (reez-two) is kneeling down in front of a statue, her shoulder bandaged by a ripped piece of cloth. Few people are around; the park lights have come on. Dealth, walking carefully through the park, with his hood up, notices Ryx at the foot of the statue.
DEALTH
(slightly altering voice)
A Kunivrian worshipping on BHirira?
RYX 02
(startled)
Excuse me?
DEALTH
I thought we could talk.
RYX 02
Where are you from?
Dealth responds with a questioning look. She turns fully towards him. He sees that she's BHiriran.
DEALTH
Oops.
(to himself)
Not Kunivri--
RYX 02 (cont'd)
I wasn't worshipping. That's how BHirirans curse a race.
DEALTH
Why would you curse the people the BHiriran defeated?
Ryx 02 stands up and leans against the statue.
RYX 02
It was because of the Kunivrian Capture that my parents were killed on BHirira-1.
DEALTH
The BHirira-1 massacre killed many...of both kinds.
RYX 02
My parents were part of the design group for an explosion device which was being built at the lab-- the supposed reason Kunivrians attacked.
DEALTH
I've heard tell of the weapon and this mythical lab.
RYX 02
The lab existed, the weapon no one knows for sure. We were told Kunivrians destroyed BHirira-1.
DEALTH
I'd heard it was your people.
(pause)
Were your parents destroyed by Kunivrian--?
RYX 02
(interrupting him; angry)
No. BHirirans. Guards.
Dealth, with this new piece of the puzzle, thinks for a moment.
In the background, the BHiriran Father and two other BHiriran men hide behind a statue. They watch the two talk, weapons ready.
RYX 02 (cont'd)
But I didn't come to the park to talk history with a stranger.
DEALTH
Oh. I'm Dealth. And you are?
RYX 02
Sick of being here.
DEALTH
Here on the planet or here with me?
RYX 02
Both. Nice try...Kunivrian?
DEALTH
(pause; taken aback)
I've much to do.
Dealth starts away, Ryx 02 follows, as do the three BHiriran men who are now aiming their weapons.
EXT. SIDEWALK OF BHIRIRAN STREET - A MOMENT LATER - NIGHT
It's late, few people around, everything's closed. Ryx 02 stops Dealth and grabs his cloak at the chest with one hand.
RYX 02
You approached me! How about an explanation!
The two of them are now nose to nose. The shadow of his hood falls over part of her face.
DEALTH
If we continue talking, I will have to kill you.
She places her hand on a blade that rests in her belt.
DEALTH (cont'd)
(notices her hand, smiles)
I'm a bounty hunter. It's what I do.
father's pov - through the sight on his laser rifle
He's aiming at Dealth's head, whose back is towards them. Ryx's face is partially visible.
bhiriran father
Any friend of hers, is an enemy of the Units'.
EXT. SIDEWALK OF BHIRIRAN STREET - A second LATER
Ryx notices that something is moving in some bushes, she's ignoring Dealth, who continues to talk.
DEALTH
Don't take it the wrong way. And don't force me to make you another victim.
Ryx places her hand on her blade again.
RYX 02
Down, Hunter!
A laser shot draws towards Dealth's head, putting a small hole in his hood as Ryx, holding his collar, yanks him down and tosses a knife at the trees. She pulls him up and they run around a corner into an alley as more shots fly.
EXT. BHIRIRAN ALLEYWAY - THAT SECOND
RYX 02
(whispering)
Tell me why you're here. Why you're not dead?
DEALTH
(sarcastically)
Just lucky, I guess.
(he pulls his gun)
Unlike the dregs shooting!
EXT. SIDEWALK OF BHIRIRAN STREET - SAME MOMENT
The BHiriran Father pulls the blade out of his arm. The men close in, continually shooting, not giving Dealth a chance to respond in kind.
EXT. BHIRIRAN ALLEYWAY - THAT SECOND
RYX 02
(ignoring the ruckus)
I'm Ryx 02 by the way.
DEALTH
(glances back at the laser-fire, then at Ryx; smirks)
Ryx 02? After your mother or father?
RYX 02
My mother was Kalin-Ing; my father Ryx.
Dealth smiles and peeks around the corner at the three BHiriran men.
DEALTH'S POV - SAME SECOND - NIGHT
DEALTH
Three guys? I was running from three slows?
RYX 02
(to herself)
Not guards?
EXT. BHIRIRAN SIDEWALK - THAT MOMENT
They continue shooting. Some shots hit his armor, knocking him off balance and slowing him. But Dealth keeps coming. He ducks from any shots to the head.
Ryx 02 peeks from around the corner. Dealth grabs the Father and BHIRIRAN MAN #1, kicking the other one to the ground.
DEALTH
(turns his head to Ryx)
Wanna' take bets?
The BHiriran Father readies his weapon and raises his arm.
DEALTH
What is this? I feel near certain I haven't killed anyone you gray-necks would know.
As the Father is ready to shoot, Dealth shakes them violently. Both drop their guns.
BHiriran Man #2 begins to crawl away.
BHIRIRAN FATHER
We want nothing to do with you. We're after the woman!
Ryx walks from around the alleyway.
DEALTH
That woman saved my life. I owe her my life...I could give her yours.
BHIRIRAN FATHER
Ryx, explain to him who I am.
Dealth cocks an eyebrow and turns back to Ryx.
RYX 02
(approaches Father; whispers)
You are a BHiriran who was going to kill me and bring me in.
(to Dealth, louder)
Where are you from again, Bounty Hunter?
Dealth doesn't respond.
RYX 02
Well, you look Kunivrian.
At that, BHiriran Man #2 stands up behind a bush and runs towards Government Tower.
RYX 02 (cont'd)
Well, Dealth, this man is responsible for killing thousands of Kunivrians. And one BHiriran.
The BHiriran Father looks at her curiously.
RYX 02
Me.
BHiriran Man #1 readies his knife. Dealth notices.
BHIRIRAN FATHER
I didn't even fight the Kunivrians!
DEALTH
(to BHiriran Man #1)
No, no. That'll just make me angry.
He drops the knife.
RYX 02
They can point you out to the Guards, Bounty Hunter. 'Not good.
Ryx walks away. Dealth kills both men, looks around for the third (who is gone), then catches up to Ryx.
DEALTH
I’ve done your dirty work.
RYX 02
Move on to something else.
Dealth looks towards the sky; for a moment, light shines directly into his hood.
DEALTH
(searching for conversation)
Are those BHirira's moons?
RYX 02
Actually, one is the planet of the Nines.
DEALTH
It is?
(he smiles)
That's quite interesting. You care to explain what all that was?
There's an uncomfortable time of silence.
RYX 02
No. For what they did to your planet, you're going to kill the Governmental Units aren't you, Bounty Hunter?
(smiles at this thought)
DEALTH
Close enough.
She pulls him near. He pulls his hood down. Dealth puckers and Ryx 02 gently rubs her cheek against his. Dealth looks confused but keeps quiet as they continue standing cheek to cheek for a moment.
Ryx 02 pulls away.
RYX 02
It's about time! No one here has the dash to do it. The Kunivrian reign has ended -- long live BHiriran Tyranny!
DEALTH
Yes. Well, things'll get worse before they get better.
Dealth laughs and starts away again.
RYX 02
What does that mean?
DEALTH
It's about this planet. It is not pleasant.
(pause)
For my family, planet BHirira is going to die. Dealin'?
An almost evil smile streaks across the face of Ryx 02.
RYX 02
Do it for my family too.
CUT TO:
INT. GOVERNMENT TOWER - NIGHT
BHiriran Guard #2/Qort runs down a hallway, on his tail is a guard, DOON. The uniform of Qort's BHiriran is tattered, his face bruised. Doon is shooting at BHiriran Guard #2/Qort, other guards not too far behind.
DOON
Traitor! Stop!
Doon pulls a communicator off the handle of his gun. He is slowly gaining ground on Guard #2/Qort.
DOON
(into communicator)
We're heading to zero-del, Kai-one. Send all availables to that section.
OFFICER (O.S. over radio)
Good work Doon. Keep after him.
BHiriran Guard #2/Qort turns a corner where they crash into three other guards. Qort jumps backwards and forwards from guard to guard, taking them over, and having them kill each other until Doon catches up-- and Qort ATTACHES to him as well. Other guards arrive as Doon/Qort puts on his hood.
DOON/QORT
The, uh, situation has been handled.
BHIRIRAN GUARD #3
You call these casualties "handled," Doon?
DOON/QORT
It could've been worse. It could've been me.
BHIRIRAN GUARD #3
(into communicat)
Sir, shall we clean this up?
OFFICER (O.S. over radio)
No. A Sweep-Form will take it. All back to stations!
BHIRIRAN GUARD #3
Let's go, Doon.
(grabs the weapons of dead guards)
The guards head back to their stations, Doon/Qort following Guard #3. As they turn the corner, Doon/Qort looks back to see a Sweep-Form: A man-guided machine (tank-sized) that can incinerate, and dispose of, fallen bodies. This man is followed by another who pushes a similar machine along the opposite wall, cleaning all other remains.
INT. BHIRIRAN TOWER HALLWAY - NIGHT
BHiriran Guard #3 enters a room followed by Doon/Qort
INT. DATA/TACTICAL ROOM - NIGHT
BHiriran Guard #3 takes his place by the door.
The room is dim. In the middle is a table; above it are three fairly large screens-- blank at the moment. Various uniformed men stand by the walls, some stand guard, others work at computers. One man, a high-ranking OFFICER, sits at the table, going through papers.
Doon/Qort approaches the Officer and kneels down, eye to eye.
DOON/QORT
(whispering)
Sir, there's something I gotta' tell you. Can we, uh, step inta' the hall?
OFFICER
Base Guard Doon, if you wish to talk to me about the Kunivrian, I am well aware he is on this planet. If it is of another matter, there is no reason you cannot speak to me here.
Qort lifts the hood slightly, and narrows his eyes.
OFFICER (cont'd)
Doon? Doon!
DOON/QORT
(silent for another moment)
It's a personal thing.
He leans towards the Officer, SOUND of Qort DETACHING, one leg slithers towards the hood of the Officer.
DOON/QORT (cont'd)
I don't mean to worry you...
The leg grabs the Officer's hood and lifts it onto his head. As the Officer reacts, Qort ATTACHES. His other leg DETACHES, but this time the sound is followed by A CRACK, and as Qort jumps under the Officer's hood, blood trickles down the neck of Doon, who then collapses.
OFFICER/QORT
(using Officer's voice)
What is the wrong with you, Doon?!
Officer/Qort stands up and silently points out two guards.
OFFICER/QORT
Get rid of this man!
The two Guards by the door grab Doon and exit.
Officer/Qort walks over to one of the consoles where sits a BHiriran DATA OFFICER.
OFFICER/QORT
Gimme a full list on weapons and supplies. I also want to know how much power your -- the -- weapons have.
The BHiriran Data Officer looks up questioningly.
OFFICER/QORT
If our bosses ask any questions, I want the answers in front of me! Now get me that list!
The Data Officer turns to the man at the next console.
DATA OFFICER
You got all that, Jayk?
(back to Officer/Qort)
Jayk takes care of listings.
OFFICER/QORT
Well, you could use the practice!
INT. BHIRIRA CHAMBER - NIGHT
Governmental Unit #1
You are sure?
BHIRIRAN MAN #2
Yes, your Lord-Sovereign.
Governmental Unit #4
Thank you. You may go. You have done a great service; you will be rewarded in kind. We will alert
our men.
The BHiriran man exits, flanked by two guards who carefully hold their guns on him.
CUT TO:
INT. DEFENSE ROOM - NIGHT
The screens blink on. Each shows Governmental Unit #1.
GOVERNMENTAL UNIT #1
The Kunivrian has befriended one of our own. We believe it is Ryx 02. We want this matter over with by morning.
Unit #1 disappears, and in his place are shots of various areas along the perimeter of Government Tower.
OFFICER/QORT
Once I've got that list, I'll get search parties together.
BHIRIRAN OFFICER
Why tell us, sir? We have nothing to do with it. Besides, there're prob'ly some ships on their way now.
Officer/Qort quietly sits at the table.
EXT. ROOFTOP - BHIRIRAN MAIN STREET - NIGHT
Dealth fires a blast from a gun. He takes out a BHiriran guard who falls on top of another downed BHiriran. Dealth grabs Ryx's hand and they run across the rooftops.
DEALTH
I think we've got the last of them.
Reaching the final rooftop, the two prepare to jump, but a BHiriran Streamfighter (a war ship) rises into their path, hovering just a few feet above the pair.
RYX 02
Got anything electrical?
DEALTH
(not taking eyes off hovering ship; annoyed)
Uh, yeah.
He pulls something out of his armor and hands it to her.
RYX 02
Gimme a lift!
Dealth looks at her curiously. Using her knife, she pulls the gadget apart exposing the wires; it begins to spark.
RYX 02
Perfect.
(to Dealth)
Trust me. They don't use force fields when going after citizens, and I know this ship's weakness.
The ship aims a laser their way, it's about to shoot. Dealth gives her a lift to the ship. Getting a hold of the it, Ryx pries a latch open with a knife and stuffs the sparking gadget into it.
RYX 02
(hanging on with one arm)
Ah, the easy-to-screw-with excess energy cells.
Dealth dives and Ryx jumps to the ground as the ship explodes. They look proudly upon the hovering smoke...until another Streamfighter appears through the cloud, bright lights aimed clearly in their direction.
Ryx's bandaged arm is bleeding.
DEALTH
That's twice you saved me.
RYX 02
Bounty Hunter, I guess I should tell you now...I'm sorta' wanted by the Government for killing a guard earlier today...and he wasn't the first.
DEALTH
Sure. Perfect.
(pause)
I'll be real upset if I don't get to annihilate this planet because of you! Dealin'?
The ship shoots a wide laser at them. Dealth's armor is on fire, but they are otherwise unharmed. Ryx notices the fire and points.
DEALTH
It'll go out!
She grabs his hand, they proceed on their way. The Stream-fighter above continues to shoot; it is joined by two more.
INT. STREAMFIGHTER - THAT SECOND
PILOT
We are following two suspects. The Kunivrian and Ryx 02.
INT. DATA/TACTICAL ROOM - SAME MOMENT
Officer/Qort overhears this message.
OFFICER/QORT
Dea-- err, da' Kunivrian! Yeah.
DATA OFFICER
What should we do, sir?
OFFICER/QORT
Have someone prepare my ship!
EXT. BHIRIRAN apartment DEVELOPMENT - NIGHT
Using various weapons, Dealth takes out several ground troops heading their way. Ryx does the same using her knife.
Another ship hovers over them.
EXT. JUST OUTSIDE OF TOWN - NIGHT
Ryx and Dealth run, searching for cover. As they approach a mass of trees, a large group of BHirirans jumps out of them, guns aimed and ready. This is the Phalanx Force.
RYX 02
Don't shoot!! It's us!
They shoot.
DEALTH
Friends of yours?
Dealth shoots, but he's run out of ammo. He tosses the gun over his shoulder; it smacks into a ship on his tail. Both Ryx and Dealth get hit by ground fire. Then OFFICER/QORT, in the Officer's Streamfighter, zooms down to help.
INT. QORT'S BHIRIRAN SHIP - THAT MOMENT
QORT
All right, you stupid BHiriran. Now tell me where the speaker switch is!
Qort concentrates for a minute. His legs are embedded into the Officer's skull, but we can see the upper portions of his legs moving from side to side.
QORT
Ah.
(flips a switch; speaks through loudspeaker)
You soldiers get back! These prisoners will be taken to the tower!
FX - BHIRIRAN SKY - SAME SECOND
Qort's ship blocks the view from the other two circling ships. One of the BHiriran ground troops, AZRA-JES, notices this and runs towards Qort's ship, thinking that this BHiriran is going to snatch Ryx and her friend.
AZRA-JES
Hey, they're placing a grenade on the bottom of your ship!
Azra-jes throws a smoke-bomb towards Ryx 02 and Dealth who have not moved since being shot.
OFFICER/QORT pulls up.
INT. QORT'S BHIRIRAN SHIP - SAME SECOND
QORT
Dealth, ya' dink! Don't you realize!?
Qort pulls out of there quickly.
FX - BHIRIRAN SKY - THAT MOMENT
Qort spins the ship around, ramming one Streamfighter into the ground, and shooting the other down.
Azra-jes runs into the smoke and picks up Ryx, getting a good look at Dealth, who he leaves behind. But Dealth regains consciousness and covers himself from flying debris of a hit Streamfighter.
INT. OFFICER/QORT'S SHIP - A MOMENT LATER
OFFICER/QORT
This'll fool 'im.
The Officer's hand flips the radio switch-- as well as the speaker switch, albeit accidentally.
OFFICER/QORT(cont'd)
(play-acting)
I've pulled up too quickly, I've lost c'ntrol--Goin' do-o-own!!
(laughs; pause)
Uh-oh.
EXT. OUTSIDE OF BHIRIRAN TOWN - SAME MOMENT
DEALTH
(recognizing the speech pattern)
Qort?
The ship crashes not too far away.
DEALTH
Sengdamn!! Qort!
Dealth rushes to the crash site behind a BHiriran home.
EXT. CRASH SITE - A MINUTE LATER
Furiously, Dealth look