Starfighter

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FADE IN:

EXT ISRAELITE CITY

The Assyrian army sweeps down on the city. Homes are burnt, and the population captured.

NARRATOR

Almost three millenia ago, the Assyrian Empire captured ten of the Tribes of Israel.

The Israelites march dejectedly toward the north in bondage to the Assyrians.

NARRATOR

A benevolent race of beings, known as The Children of Light, rescued a portion of these ten tribes.

Several huge starships land in front of the Assyrian army. The captured Israelites are brought on board the starships. The ships leap toward the sky.

NARRATOR

The Children of Light took these Israelites to a planet they named Arsaleth.

The starships approach Arsaleth.

NARRATOR

Twenty seven hundred years later, their society has flourished into a technologically successful theocracy.

CUT TO:

EXT SPACE - ESTABLISHING

Dark and menacing Kreen starships battle with human starfighters. A large human cargo ship attempts to escape the conflict. It is quickly shot and disabled by the Kreen.

NARRATOR

But they were not without their enemies. The Kreen, a cruel race of beings bent on enslaving the humans, were a constant threat to peace.

The Kreen march the captured humans onto their ship. One of the humans is a blonde woman, DEBORAH (30's). She holds her head defiantly at the Kreen.

NARRATOR

Humans from countless worlds were taken as slaves. Despite attempts at rescue, the humans never could defeat the Kreen.

As Deborah's ship explodes, BARAK and MAHONRI look on in their ship, horrified.

NARRATOR

The Children of Israel sent their prayers heavenward. The Lord blessed them with an era of peace. Still, they kept watch, waiting for the time when they could rescue their people.

CUT TO:

EXT PLANET ARSALETH - ESTABLISHING

The Planet Arsaleth bustles with interstellar activity.

EXT STARFIGHTER BASE - ESTABLISHING

The high-tech starfighter base rises out of a mountain hillside. Starfighter launch tubes rise out of the ground and two starfighters leap out toward the sky on a training mission.

INT STARFIGHTER BASE - BARRACKS - DAY

GIDEON (20's) a serious-minded pilot, packs his bags. ISAAC (20's) a thrill-seeking party guy, tosses darts at a board on the wall.

ISAAC

So, did Timothy tell you where he's going?

GIDEON

No. But I don't think it's very hard to figure out.

ISAAC

He's been all over your sister for the last two months.

GIDEON

Tell me about it. I can't hardly go home without Taryn talking about him. I tell you, Isaac, I get a little bit tired of it.

ISAAC

I thought you two were buds.

GIDEON

We are - were. I mean, are. We are still friends, but I could use a break from always hearing about Timothy.

ISAAC

Have you talked with Samuel yet?

GIDEON

He was down at the mess hall, last I saw him.

ISAAC

I told him he's not going to be able to eat like that once we go out on patrol. We've only got so much food on the starfighters.

GIDEON

Did he listen?

ISAAC

Samuel? Right. Only two things he listens to - his belly and lights out.

GIDEON

What did you need from Samuel?

ISAAC

I asked Samuel to tell you about the party we're throwing for Timothy.

GIDEON

When?

ISAAC

It was supposed to be this afternoon.

GIDEON

Let me give Timothy a call.

Gideon calls Timothy's apartment.

CUT TO:

INT TIMOTHY'S APARTMENT - DAY

TIMOTHY (20's), a handsome and charismatic starfighter squad leader, picks up an engagement ring box off of his bookshelf. Timothy looks at the ring, then snaps the box closed.

The phone rings.

From the other room, TARYN (20's), Timothy's girlfriend, a saucy, no-nonsense girl, calls to Timothy.

TARYN (O.S.)

Don't answer that.

TIMOTHY

It could be important.

Timothy tucks the ring box in his pocket. Taryn stands in the doorway.

TARYN

It's not. Trust me.

TIMOTHY

You keep saying that. What if they need me?

The phone stops ringing.

TARYN

Your starfighter squad can do without you for one afternoon, Timothy.

TIMOTHY

And what if they're calling for you, Taryn?

TARYN

Too bad. It's my day off.

TIMOTHY

What's the weather going to be like on the lake?

TARYN

The report said that there's a chance of squalls, but I don't think we have to worry. Besides, if we have any trouble, I've got you to rescue me.

TIMOTHY

Hey, I've got the afternoon off, remember?

TARYN

So you'd let me drown?

TIMOTHY

I didn't say that. Have you got the basket packed?

The phone rings again. It stops. Timothy sets the answering machine.

TARYN

Don't you dare.

TIMOTHY

Okay, I wasn't even thinking it.

TARYN

Then what were you thinking about?

TIMOTHY

You really need me to answer that? Let's go.

Timothy and Taryn exit. Timothy's answering machine picks up. Gideon leaves a message on Timothy's answering machine.

GIDEON

(on answering machine)

Timothy, I know you're there. Something's come up. We need you to come in this afternoon.

(to Isaac)

Should Taryn come?

(to Timothy)

Bring Taryn, too. We need both of you to come to the base this afternoon. Got it? Pick up the phone, Timothy.

(to Isaac)

I get real tired of this.

Gideon hangs up.

CUT TO:

EXT LAKE - DAY

Timothy and Taryn sail out on the great lake. Clouds pile up in the distance, threatening a storm.

TARYN

It's beautiful out here.

TIMOTHY

My dad brought me out here a lot growing up. Over there, by those trees...that's where he taught me how to fish.

TARYN

Where?

Timothy points. Taryn gets right up next to him.

TIMOTHY

Those trees, right over there... oh.

TARYN

I like being out here with you, Timothy.

TIMOTHY

So do I. With you, I mean. I like coming out here alone, too, but-

TARYN

Shut up and kiss me.

Taryn kisses Timothy.

TIMOTHY

Wow. That came out of nowhere.

TARYN

Don't tell me you haven't been thinking about that all day.

TIMOTHY

Okay, I won't.

TARYN

What were you talking with my dad about last night?

TIMOTHY

What? Oh, I um... a new mission. Yeah, that's it.

TARYN

Mm-hmm. Right.

Timothy looks out into the distance, gathering his courage.

TIMOTHY

Taryn?

TARYN

Yes, Timothy.

TIMOTHY

I was thinking...

TARYN

The answer is yes.

TIMOTHY

So you think those clouds are going to rain on us?

Taryn playfully hits Timothy.

TARYN

That wasn't what you were going to ask.

TIMOTHY

Okay. I was thinking that we've been friends a long time, and I want you to be-

TARYN

Your copilot?

TIMOTHY

Uh, sort of.

TARYN

The answer is yes, Timothy.

TIMOTHY

Really? I mean, you really want to?

TARYN

With all my heart.

TIMOTHY

Oh good. Where's the sandwiches?

TARYN

I give you the chance to try to be romantic, and you want sandwiches. Men.

TIMOTHY

I was joking.

TARYN

Oh, so now you don't want the sandwiches?

The wind picks up and snaps their sail around, barely missing Timothy's head.

TIMOTHY

I think we'd better head back.

The wind lashes their boat. The waves slam against the hull.

TARYN

Not exactly what I expected.

TIMOTHY

At least you won't forget it.

CUT TO:

EXT LAKE SHORE - CONTINUING

BROTHER JOHN, spiritual leader of the planet, walks along the shoreline toward the dock. He breathes deeply and smiles. Eyes that have seen countless years of miracles look out on the lake.

The heightened wind reaches him, whipping his long coat back

BROTHER JOHN

I didn't expect this today.

As he continues on his way, the dark clouds roil above the lake. He spies a floundering sailboat in the distance.

BROTHER JOHN

Perhaps someone could use my assistance.

Brother John walks out onto the water towards Timothy's sailboat.

CUT TO:

EXT LAKE - DAY

The storm howls in full fury now. It is all that Timothy and Taryn can do to keep from being knocked overboard. In the distance, a figure, Brother John, walks toward them on the water.

TARYN

Look!

Brother John raises his right arm. The storm immediately ceases. Brother John walks to the side of their boat.

TARYN

Brother John, what are you doing here?

BROTHER JOHN

I came to do some fishing, and something told me that this boat needed some help.

TIMOTHY

You're walking on the water.

BROTHER JOHN

Yes. Not something to try if you're a doubting Thomas.

TARYN

A what?

BROTHER JOHN

Never mind. Can I take you back to the shore?

TIMOTHY

I think we should be able to handle things all right now.

BROTHER JOHN

Are you sure? Your boat looks like it's going to sink any time.

The inside of the boat is half-filled with water. It rides very low. The sails are tattered and waterlogged.

TIMOTHY

We'll be fine.

TARYN

I'll go with you, Brother John.

BROTHER JOHN

Take my hand, Taryn.

Taryn takes Brother John's outstretched hand and steps out onto the water.

TARYN

Wow, this is weird.

BROTHER JOHN

Nothing weird about it. Just faith. You might want to take the picnic basket. You wouldn't want those sandwiches to get wet.

Taryn takes the picnic basket. She and Brother John walk toward the shore.

TIMOTHY

Don't worry about me. I'll be just fine.

Timothy feels around in the boat for a paddle. He finds one and starts paddling toward the shore.

TIMOTHY

Just fine.

The tattered sail falls off the mast and lands on top of Timothy.

TIMOTHY

Just great.

CUT TO:

EXT LAKE SHORE - DAY

Taryn and Brother John spread out the picnic lunch. Brother John looks out to the lake.

BROTHER JOHN

There goes the boat.

Timothy's boat sinks.

TARYN

Is Timothy all right?

BROTHER JOHN

Stubborn; doesn't want to put faith in others; but he'll be fine.

TARYN

I mean is he okay? Out there.

BROTHER JOHN

Oh, he's swimming toward us. Give him another two minutes.

Two minutes later.

Brother John has gathered some sticks for a fire. Timothy walks up out of the water.

TARYN

Ready for some lunch?

Timothy sits down soggily next to the picnic basket.

BROTHER JOHN

Actually, I'm rather glad that I found you, Taryn. I have something I need to ask you.

TARYN

We've got something we need to ask you, too, Brother John.

BROTHER JOHN

You first.

TARYN

No, you go ahead.

BROTHER JOHN

All right. Taryn, I know you have wanted to go to one of our council meetings for a long time. I've been able to open a position in my security team for you. Would you like it?

Taryn's mouth drops open. This is one of her dreams - to work security for Brother John. Taryn nods dumbly.

BROTHER JOHN

Is that a yes?

TARYN

Yes, thank you. I don't know what to say.

BROTHER JOHN

Now, what did you have to ask me?

Taryn looks to Timothy, and gestures for him to ask.

TIMOTHY

Well, Taryn and I are getting married.

BROTHER JOHN

Congratulations. But where is the ring?

Timothy pulls out the ring box.

TIMOTHY

It's right here. The storm came up, and we didn't get a chance to...

BROTHER JOHN

Well, there's no time like the present.

Timothy slips the engagement ring on Taryn's finger.

TIMOTHY

We were wondering if you would marry us.

BROTHER JOHN

I would be honored.

Brother John cocks his head, as if hearing something.

BROTHER JOHN

Excuse me for a moment.

Brother John walks to the water's edge. He looks upwards to the heavens, as if hearing a voice from up there.

TIMOTHY

What's he doing?

TARYN

Shh. He's saying something.

BROTHER JOHN

Save two worlds? Them? All right, you are in charge.

Brother John turns back to Timothy and Taryn. He smiles broadly.

BROTHER JOHN

I would be happy to officiate at your wedding. I hope this won't interfere with you working security at the council meeting, Taryn.

TARYN

We haven't scheduled anything yet. There won't be any problems.

TIMOTHY

When is this council meeting being held?

BROTHER JOHN

A week from now. It will be on the planet Beth-el.

TIMOTHY

Who all is going to be there?

BROTHER JOHN

We'll have representatives from the twelve planets of the Trade Alliance. There will be a delegation from Arsaleth, led by me, which Taryn will watch over as Head of my security team.

TARYN

Head of the team? Me? This is like a dream come true.

BROTHER JOHN

Your marriage will be the dream that comes true. This is just a goal you've wanted.

TIMOTHY

Thank you, Brother John. This means a lot to Taryn.

BROTHER JOHN

It's my pleasure, Timothy.

CUT TO:

INT STARFIGHTER BASE - BARRACKS - NIGHT

Timothy enters the barracks and tosses his bag on his bunk. SAMUEL (20's), a stout, friendly wingman, munches snacks on his bunk. Gideon and Isaac sit in front of a 3D television, watching "The Rocketing Avengers".

SAMUEL

Hey, Timothy, we missed you today.

Gideon turns around to face Timothy.

GIDEON

Didn't you get my message?

TIMOTHY

Yeah, about fifteen minutes ago.

ISAAC

So, how's your cuddle-bunny?

TIMOTHY

Taryn's fine.

GIDEON

Where were you today? We were planning a party for you two.

TIMOTHY

Sorry. We went out to the lake.

SAMUEL

I heard there was supposed to be storms today. Did you run into any?

GIDEON

And the boat?

TIMOTHY

Um...it's safe.

ISAAC

Safe? Where?

TIMOTHY

We don't have to worry about it sinking...

(under his breath)

Anymore.

GIDEON

What do you mean "anymore"? What did you do to my boat?!

ISAAC

Yeah, what did you do to our boat?

TIMOTHY

Look, guys, it wasn't my fault. The storm came up out of nowhere.

SAMUEL

You should have watched the news. I did. I knew about the storms.

TIMOTHY

We can get it back. It's not too far down.

GIDEON

You sank my boat?!

TIMOTHY

Not exactly. It sank itself. I was doing all I could to get to shore.

ISAAC

Where did you sink it?

TIMOTHY

It's by the fishing trees.

GIDEON

I can't believe you.

TIMOTHY

What? It was old anyway.

On the TV, the program changes to a test pattern.

SAMUEL

Hey, what happened to "The Rocketing Avengers"?

TV ANNOUNCER

We interrupt this program to bring you an important message.

The test pattern changes to Brother John's office. Brother John is broadcasting to the whole world.

BROTHER JOHN

Good evening, my brethren and sisters of Arsaleth. My greetings go out to those on other worlds who are listening. It is a grand time to be alive. The time of prophesy is nigh at hand. The time has come to prepare to return to our ancestral homeworld.

Samuel gets up from his bed and stands next to the TV, amazed.

BROTHER JOHN

As you know, our ancestors were brought to this planet by the benevolent race, called the Children of Light. We knew the time would come for our return. We will rejoin with our brethren and sisters on our homeworld, so that the Twelve Tribes of Israel will be united once again. The Tribal Elders and I will be meeting with representatives from the twelve planets next week. More details will be available through your ecclesiastical leaders following that meeting. Let us all prepare for this momentous occasion, and may the Lord's blessings be upon us.

The TV picture goes back to the test pattern.

TV ANNOUNCER

We now return you to your regularly scheduled program, already in progress.

The test pattern goes back to "The Rocketing Avengers".

ISAAC

That's unbelievable. It's true. We're actually going back.

TIMOTHY

I just hope the Kreen don't interfere.

CUT TO:

INT KREEN EMPEROR'S THRONE ROOM - DAY

A large viewscreen commands one wall. Brother John's message is heard by the Kreen - a twisted, humanoid race, bent on revenge and destruction of lesser life.

EMPEROR ZZAYSUB, the arrogant and cruel monarch of the Kreen, angrily taps his scepter on his throne. The throne is carved of precious wood, a scarce commodity on Kreen.

EMPEROR ZZAYSUB

Pathetic. Those humans are going back to their homeworld. It sickens me, Gangrin.

GANGRIN, a huge, biomechanically-altered Kreen, nods in agreement. Gangrin is the second-in-command to the Emperor.

GANGRIN

Shall I destroy them at their council meeting?

EMPEROR ZZAYSUB

No, don't destroy them. Those humans could have some use to us. Capture them and bring them here.

GANGRIN

How many do you want, great Emperor?

EMPEROR ZZAYSUB

Bring me all of the leaders, and as many as you can easily capture. If we can get their secrets, perhaps we can have a new world.

Emperor Zzaysub walks to his window and looks out.

The Royal City of Kreen is a huge, moveable behemoth. Great gouts of pollution rise into the atmosphere from its industrial centers. Barren wasteland surrounds the city.

EMPEROR ZZAYSUB

Our world is nearly exhausted, Gangrin. The resources are almost gone. Those humans have kept us from expanding to any nearby planets. I loathe them.

GANGRIN

Yes, my lord.

EMPEROR ZZAYSUB

I see you're not going to be much for conversation. Go, bring back some humans. I need some amusement this week.

Gangrin inclines his head respectfully, and exits the throne room.

Emperor Zzaysub walks down the steps of his dais. An attendant rushes up to him, holding the leash of a brightly colored lizard. The Emperor takes the leash, and walks the lizard out of the room.

EMPEROR ZZAYSUB

Life is so challenging.

CUT TO:

INT STARFIGHTER BASE - COMMAND CENTER - DAY

A week has passed.

Timothy enters the command center. BARAK SIBBOLETH, commanding general of the armed forces, greets Timothy. Barak is also the father of Gideon and Taryn.

BARAK

Timothy, thank you for coming.

TIMOTHY

Of course, General. What's this all about?

BARAK

I know you were going to spend a few minutes with Taryn before she left, so I'll be brief. The chiefs and I have discussed things, and we want you to command the lead Starfighter escort when we return to the Homeworld.

TIMOTHY

Really? You want me?

BARAK

You're one of the best, Timothy. You were our first choice.

TIMOTHY

When do I start?

BARAK

You'll begin your training in a few days. There is a new three-person starfighter that you will pilot. You'll get your clearance after the council meeting.

TIMOTHY

What's my tour of duty?

BARAK

You will be on patrol for two months on, one month off, in and around the Chaldaean sector.

TIMOTHY

That's halfway to Kreen. And you want me to start in a few days? I don't know. I'd have to talk with Taryn about it.

BARAK

She has told me that you proposed to her.

TIMOTHY

Well, you knew I was going to anyway.

BARAK

It will be good to have you as a Son-in-law.

TIMOTHY

We had talked about having the ceremony in three weeks.

BARAK

Your squadron will be leaving in three days. Taryn will understand. She's grown up in the military, just like you.

TIMOTHY

Let me talk to her first.

BARAK

I sympathize with you, Timothy, but understand that this is not a request. This is your assignment.

TIMOTHY

I understand, Sir.

BARAK

(sternly)

You're a good soldier, Timothy. I don't think you'll have any problems out there. Say goodbye to Taryn for me.

Timothy salutes and exits.

CUT TO:

EXT SPACEPORT TERMINAL - DAY

Timothy and Taryn walk toward the Terminal, holding hands.

TIMOTHY

I guess I'll see you in two days.

TARYN

I'm going to miss you, Timothy.

TIMOTHY

Your dad gave me a new assignment. I'm supposed to lead a patrol in the Chaldaean sector.

TARYN

But that's halfway to Kreen! You could be killed.

TIMOTHY

I know. We launch in three days.

TARYN

That'll only give us one day together.

TIMOTHY

I know.

Brother John opens the Terminal door.

TIMOTHY

Brother John is waiting for you, Miss Head of Security.

TARYN

Well, here goes.

TIMOTHY

You'll do fine.

Taryn and Timothy kiss one last time. Taryn enters the Terminal. She turns and waves goodbye to Timothy.

TIMOTHY

Be careful, Taryn.

TARYN

I will. Bye.

The Terminal door closes.

TIMOTHY

See you.

CUT TO:

INT SPACEPORT TERMINAL - DAY

Timothy stands at a large window and watches the ships launch. Taryn's starfighter rises up and blinks its lights off and on at Timothy. Then the starfighter zooms out into space.

TIMOTHY

Be careful, Taryn I don't want to lose you. Not now.

CUT TO:

EXT SPACE - OUTSIDE OF ARSALETH - DAY

Brother John's ship, The Revelator, pulses with a unique energy. This ship is technologically far superior to the other starships. The Revelator is a mid-size executive-style starship.

Four starfighters fly escort around The Revelator.

BROTHER JOHN

We've passed the gravity well. Everyone prepare for hyperleap.

The ships leap into hyperspace.

CUT TO:

INT STARFIGHTER BASE - BARRACKS - DAY

Timothy despondently enters the barracks. Samuel flips through a technical manual.

SAMUEL

Hey, Timothy, what's the matter with you?

TIMOTHY

I'm fine.

SAMUEL

You're worried about Taryn.

TIMOTHY

What do you know about it?

SAMUEL

Hey, I listen when the others talk. Timothy, I know we haven't always been on speaking terms, especially after that balloon incident, but I do care what happens to you.

TIMOTHY

I just need a little while on my own.

SAMUEL

So you can feel the pain of separation? I don't think so. Look, Gideon and Isaac are going to be back pretty soon. What do you say we throw darts, or something?

TIMOTHY

It won't make me feel any better.

SAMUEL

Wait a minute, this isn't just about Taryn, is it?

Timothy flops down on his bunk.

SAMUEL

I heard about our assignment, too. I would rather stay somewhere in the trade routes, but we have to go to Chaldaea. Timothy, are you listening to me?

Silence.

SAMUEL

Taryn is going to be fine. She's a good fighter. She can take care of herself.

Gideon and Isaac enter. Isaac munches on some popcorn.

ISAAC

Hey Sam, Tim, what's up?

GIDEON

I saw this coming. Timothy, get up. She'll be back in two days. Get over it.

ISAAC

Oh yeah, I heard that you and Taryn are getting hitched. Congrats.

TIMOTHY

Guys, I appreciate the gesture, but just leave me alone.

GIDEON

Timothy, you're our squad leader. What kind of example are you setting? Besides, we all miss Taryn. She was one of us. We're going to be flying one short for a while.

TIMOTHY

I'm not going.

ISAAC

Hey, man, you've got to go.

SAMUEL

What do you mean you're not going?

TIMOTHY

I can't go out to Kreen and risk getting myself killed. I've got more to think about now.

GIDEON

Timothy, if you turn down this assignment, that's it. You're through. No more starfighter.

ISAAC

What are you going to do? Pilot barges? Be a farmer? Come on, be reasonable.

TIMOTHY

I've made my decision.

Timothy gets up and walks out.

SAMUEL

He can't do that, can he, Gideon?

GIDEON

We'll see how he is in the morning.

CUT TO:

EXT PLANET BETH-EL - DAY

Beth-el is an expansion planet. Colonists from Arsaleth have only begun colonizing it in the past twenty-five years. There are only a few cities. Planetary defenses are minimal.

Large ships, surrounded by buzzing escort fighters, circle the planet. Transports ferry the dignitaries down to the planet's surface.

Brother John and his contingent arrive. Brother John's smaller ship has the capacity to land on the planet. He swoops down into the atmosphere, followed by his escorts.

BROTHER JOHN

Here we are.

TARYN

It's beautiful. Where is the conference.

BROTHER JOHN

Follow me.

The Revelator swoops through the atmosphere and lands near a lavish meeting hall. The starfighters settle in next to The Revelator.

EXT BETH-EL MEETING HALL - CONTINUING

Brother John greets one of his friends, MAHONRI (40's), a smiling, intelligent man with bright eyes.

BROTHER JOHN

Mahonri, it's good to see you.

MAHONRI

Brother John. It has been far too long since you visited.

BROTHER JOHN

Things on Arsaleth have kept me busy.

MAHONRI

I heard. That announcement last week caught us all by surprise. Is it really time?

BROTHER JOHN

That's what this conference is all about, Mahonri. How are the Levites on your world doing?

MAHONRI

Very well. They are excited to be returning.

BROTHER JOHN

As are we all.

Taryn steps forward.

BROTHER JOHN

Mahonri, allow me to introduce Taryn Sibboleth, chief of my security.

MAHONRI

A pleasure, Taryn. I fought alongside your father back in the Chaldaean Compromise. He is a good man.

Taryn nods politely.

BROTHER JOHN

Taryn, this is Mahonri Eleazar, Chief High Priest of the Tribe of Levi.

TARYN

I am honored to meet you, Sir.

MAHONRI

You can dispense with the Sir, Taryn. We're all friends here. Brother Mahonri suits me just fine.

TARYN

Very well, Brother Mahonri, this is my security team - Tanto, Makhar, and Jacobugath.

MAHONRI

It is good to meet you all. This will be quite a historic conference. Shall we?

Mahonri extends his arm to Taryn. The group enters the meeting hall.

CUT TO:

EXT PLANET BETH-EL - DAY

Outside the moon's orbit, a fleet of Kreen Warships hides in the sensor shadow.

INT DRAGON'S TOOTH WARSHIP - CONTINUING

Gangrin sits in the captains seat. He is connected, via cable, to the systems of the ship.

Several other Kreen are also connected to cables. Each of the Kreen has biomechanical implants. They are all warriors.

GANGRIN

How long until we have sensory override, Chonx?

CHONX, the Helmsman, turns back to face Gangrin.

CHONX

It will be less than a time part, Sir.

GANGRIN

When all overrides are in place, we will land.

Gangrin communicates to the other warships on a secured link.

GANGRIN

Take all prisoners that you can. Human resistance is futile. Ships Darkonis and Zilard will clear our path. They shall engage the enemy ships. Everyone else follow my lead. Gangrin out.

CHONX

Shall I prepare the fighters, Commander?

GANGRIN

Yes. Only one squadron, though. Keep the others on standby.

Chonx disconnects and leaves the bridge.

GANGRIN

It will be like shooting mugwarks in a barrel.

CUT TO: