The Most Delicate Instrument: Difference between revisions

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| titlecard      = File:1x003-Title.png
| titlecard      = File:1x003-Title.png
| episodenumber  = 1x03
| episodenumber  = 1x03
| production      = unknown
| production      = 74703
| story          = [[Mark Edens]]
| story          = [[Mark Edens]]
| writer          = [[Shari Goodhartz]]
| writer          = [[Shari Goodhartz]]
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===Act One===
===Act One===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Terran Confederation
! Empire of Kilrah
|-
!colspan="3"|Strength
|-
|4 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters<br>1 Bengal strike carrier (TCS Tiger's Claw)
|2 Grikath heavy fighters
|-
!colspan="3"|Losses
|-
|1 Scimitar destroyed
|2 Grikath destroyed
|-
|}


===Act Two===
===Act Two===


===Act Three===
===Act Three===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Terran Confederation
! Hallucinating Pilots
|-
!colspan="3"|Strength
|-
|2 F-54 Epee medium attack fighters<br>1 Bengal strike carrier (TCS Tiger's Claw)
|2 CF-131 Broadsword bombers
|-
!colspan="3"|Losses
|-
|
|1 Broadsword destroyed, 1 captured
|-
|}


==Characters==
==Characters==
Line 41: Line 75:
Image:1x03-Communications-Tech.png|Communications Tech
Image:1x03-Communications-Tech.png|Communications Tech
Image:1x03-MP.png|Head Security Guard
Image:1x03-MP.png|Head Security Guard
Image:1x03-PaybackFantasyCat.png|Kilrathi Warrior
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 46: Line 81:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x02_-_Blairents.png|Devi Soulsong & Major Arnold Blair
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-1.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x02_-_Grunt_and_Pilot.png|2nd Lt. Hector "Grunt" Paz & Pilot
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-2.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x02_-_Guard Two.png|Tortuga Guard #2
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-3.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x02_-_Guard One.png|Tortuga Guard #1
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-4.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x02_-_Ground Crew.png|Tortuga Ground Crewman
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-5.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x02 - Gharal.png|Gharal nar Hhallas
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-6.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x02_-_Kilrathi_Soldier.png|Kilrathi Soldier #2
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-7.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-8.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-9.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-10.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-11.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x03-Ground-Crews-12.png|Tiger's Claw Ground Crews
Image:1x03-Security-Guards.png|Tiger's Claw Security Guards (3)
Image:1x03-MaverickFantasyCats.png|Kilrathi Warrior (3)
Image:1x03-ArcherKilrathi.png|Kilrathi Warrior
</gallery>
 
==Kill Board==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Pilot
! Sorties
! Kills
! Status
|-
!Maniac
|5
|3 (1 partial)
|Active
|-
!Maverick
|4
|1 (partial)
|Active
|-
!Archer
|3
|1
|Active
|-
!Blizzard
|2
|1
|KIA
|-
!Payback
|4
|0
|Active
|-
!Easy
|1
|0
|Active
|-
!Grunt
|1
|0
|Active
|-
!Hyena
|1
|0
|Active
|-
!Jazzman
|1
|0
|Active
|-
!Viking
|1
|0
|Retired
|-
|}
 
==Locations==
 
===Tiger's Claw===
 
[[File:1x03-TigersClaw.png|frameless]]
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x03-BriefingRoom.png|Briefing Room
Image:1x03-LockerRoom.png|Locker Room
Image:1x03-OutsideElevator.png|Outside Elevator
Image:1x03-Elevator.png|Elevator
Image:1x03-Hangar.png|Hangar
Image:1x03-Bridge.png|Bridge
Image:1x03-Hallway.png|Hallway
Image:1x03-SickBay.png|Sick Bay
Image:1x03-OutsideSickBay.png|Outside Sick Bay
Image:1x03-BlizzardsQuarters.png|Blizzard's Quarters
Image:1x03-OutsideBlizzardsQuarters.png|Outside Blizzard's Quarters
Image:1x03-GuthrigsOffice.png|Guthrig's Office
Image:1x03-MavericksQuarters.png|Maverick's Quarters
Image:1x03-ArchersQuarters.png|Archer's Quarters
Image:1x03-OutsideArchersQuarters.png|Outside Archer's Quarters
Image:1x03-HallwayNearElevator.png|Hallway near Elevator
Image:1x03-CrossCorridor.png|Corridor Junction
Image:1x03-CargoBay.png|Cargo Bay
Image:1x03-ObservationDeck.png|Observation Deck
</gallery>
 
===Binary Star System===
 
[[File:1x03-BinarySystem.png|frameless]]
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x03-AsteroidField.png|Asteroid Field
</gallery>
 
===Cockpits===
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x02-HellcatCockpit.png|Scimitar
Image:1x03-BroadswordCockpit.png|Broadsword
Image:1x03-EpeeCockpit.png|Epee
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 80: Line 228:
<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x03-Grikath.png|[[Grikath]]
Image:1x03-Grikath.png|[[Grikath]]
</gallery>
==Vehicles==
===Terran Confederation===
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x03-RecoveryVehicle.png|Recovery Vehicle
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 92: Line 248:


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
* The pirate shuttle is based on the Avenger bomber from Wing Commander IV.
* This is the only episode to feature the Kilrathi Dorkir transport.


==Animation Errors==
==Animation Errors==
Line 132: Line 284:
|-
|-
!Starring
!Starring
|[[Mark Hamill]] (Maverick)
|[[Mark Hamill]] (Maverick, Communications Tech, Security Guard)
|-
|-
!
!
Line 144: Line 296:
|-
|-
!Also Starring
!Also Starring
|[[Lauri Hendler]] (Payback, Maya)
|[[Lauri Hendler]] (Payback, Maya, Sensor Tech)
|-
|-
!
!
|[[Kevin Schoen]] (Hyena)
|[[Kevin Schoen]] (Hyena, Kilrathi Warrior)
|-
|-
!
!
|[[Pat Fraley]] (Guthrig)
|[[Pat Fraley]] (Guthrig, Blizzard)
|-
|-
!Music by
!Music by
Line 186: Line 338:
|-
|-
!Character Design
!Character Design
|[[Larry Lathan]]
|[[Larry Latham]]
|-
|-
!
!
Line 219: Line 371:
|-
|-
!
!
|[[Manuel Canoa]]
|[[Manuel Cano]]
|-
|-
!
!
Line 278: Line 430:
===Act One===
===Act One===


====SCENE - Maverick's Quarters====


'''Maverick''': I'm recording this message as the Tiger's Claw moves through jumpspace. So I won't be able to send it until we're out of here. We're moving faster than the speed of light, dad. So fast that to the rest of the universe we don't even exist. We're completely cut off. Completely alone. Just thinking about it I feel a... a deep sense of wonder, of awe. And maybe it's a little frightening too. I think most of the other cadets feel like I do about being out here in space but not all of them show it.
====SCENE - Briefing Room====
 
'''Tolwyn''': Pay special attention to your drift indicators. These binary stars generate a complex gravitational field. There are no planets... the gravity has pulled them apart before they can form. Now your mission is to scout the asteroid belt. You'll divide into two patrols lead by cadets Blair and Getz.
 
'''Maverick''': Thank you, sir.
 
'''Blizzard''': Sir.
 
'''Tolwyn''': You launch in one hour. Watch out for flying rocks. Dismissed.  
 
 
====SCENE - Ready Room====
 
'''Payback''': With all of space to choose from, Tolwyn can really choose some nasty asteroids for his training exercises. 'Watch out for flying rocks.' (grunts) Man, I hate asteroids.
 
'''Archer''': Ah, the old man's got his reasons. The Kilrathi won't always let you pick where you want to fight. We need to practice.
 
'''Payback''': So we play hide and seek in the asteroids. I just want one clear shot at a furball capship.
 
'''Blizzard''': Archer, I want you to fly wing with me.
 
'''Archer''': Uh, sure Blizzard.
 
'''Blizzard''': Good.


'''Payback''': That's the most I've heard Blizzard say since he joined the Academy. I think he likes you.


====SCENE - Racquetball Court====
'''Archer''': (sighs) No way. He'd have to have emotions for that. And they'd get in the way of his flying. (laughs)


'''Maniac''': Good return Archer, but try to get a racket off this. (grunt)
'''Payback''': (laughs)


'''Archer''': Any time, Maniac.
'''Maverick''': What's the joke?


'''Maniac''': Oh man. (grunt)
'''Payback''': (laughs) Trust me, you don't want to know.


'''Archer''': (grunt) Woo! Game played, Maniac. Want to try two out of three?


'''Maniac''': Ow. No fair, you've been practicing.
====SCENE - Elevator====


'''Archer''': Yeah it wouldn't hurt you to practice every now and then. Or does everything have to come easy for you?
'''Guthrig''': (clears throat) I'm on my way to the hangar deck to jog. Even a psychiatrist can appreciate the value of exercise.


'''Maniac''': Hey, if you can't do it right the first time, why bother?
'''Maverick''': I thought it might be something like that. Well, we've got a training mission to fly.


'''PA''': Attention all hands, prepare to exit jumpspace. Brace for node deceleration. Repeat: all hands brace for node deceleration.
'''Guthrig''': I see. I believe numerous banter is useful in relieving pre-flight tension.


'''Blizzard''': I'm never tense.


====SCENE - Outside Maverick's Quarters====
'''Archer''': That's why we call him Blizzard... he's always frosty.


'''PA''': Node decceleration complete. Secure ship for subjump flight. All duty personnel return to stations. Cadets Blair, Marshall, Paz,  Price, Bowman and Zoharian report to the briefing room.
'''Guthrig''': I see.


'''Maverick''': Hey Marshall, you're going the wrong way.


'''Maniac''': I've got my own shorcut, Maverick.
====SCENE - Flight Deck====


'''Maverick''': This is the quickest way to the briefing room.
'''Maverick''': Hey Maniac, that's my ride.


'''Maniac''': You wouldn't know up from down if it weren't for gravity. We'll ust see who gets to the briefing room first.
'''Maniac''': I was just looking out for you, hotshot. Asking, uh, McEadance here if there was a way to boost your shields. There's an awful lot of rocks out here.


'''Maverick''': Okay, Maniac, you're on.
'''Maverick''': Yeah, I'll prep my own fighter.


'''Maya''': No, you'll watch me do it.


====SCENE - Tiger's Claw Hallway====
'''Maverick''': Well, sure Maya, that's what I meant. What was that?


'''McEaddens''': Hey, who lit your afterburners, pal?
'''Maniac''': We were hit by something, genius. Probably an asteroid.


'''Maverick''': Sorry, I didn't know anyone was coming around the corner. Here. I was just on my way to... uh, to the briefing room.
'''Maya''': That was a missile impact. Felt like the n umber six shield to me.


'''McEaddens''': Back the way you came, turn left at the next corridor, even you can't miss it.
'''Tolwyn''': Condition red. We are under attack. All pilots to your fighters. Repeat, this is not a drill.  


'''Maverick''': Thanks, uh..
'''Archer''': (groans) Hey! Hold it, Maniac!


'''McEaddens''': McEaddens. Tech Specialist Maya McEaddens.
'''Maniac''': Sorry Archer, no time to talk.


'''Maverick''': Well, thanks again.


'''McEaddens''': Space jockeys.
====SCENE - Space====


'''Maverick''': Break, break! He's not even trying to pull out.


====SCENE - Briefing Room====
'''Blizzard''': Stay with me, Payback.


'''Maverick''': Looks like we have to call this one a draw.
'''Payback''': I'm on your wing, Blizzard.


'''Maniac''': At least we're the first ones here.
'''Blizzard''': Arming energy guns.


'''Tolwyn''': Blair, Marshall. Good of you to join us. At last.
'''Payback''': This furball's not stopping.


'''Maverick''': Sorry sir.
'''Blizzard''': Fire.


'''Tolwyn''': I used to get lost myself my first few weeks on a carrier. But see that you learn your way around.
'''Payback''': His shields held, break right. N ow!


'''Maniac''': I, I wasn't lost sir. I was, uh, I was unavoidably detained.
'''Maniac''': Alright, you faced the rest, now face the best. Hey! Uh. Oh no, my missiles weren't prepped (scream)


'''Maverick''': I was organizing a search party for Cadet Marshall, sir.
'''Maverick''': I'm on his six.  


'''Tolwyn''': Yes, I see. Well, now that we're all here (clears throat) we can begin. As you see M421A is not an impressive system, but its proximity to more well traveled jump routes give it some strategic importance. Your mission is reconnaissance, turning over rocks. You'll divide into three flights of two fighters each. I want each pla net and its moons checked out thoroughly. This is an uninhabited system. There's been no Confederation activity since the initial survey just before the war. I don't anticipate any excitement, but stay alert. Any questions?
'''Maniac''': Get out of there, Maverick.


'''Maniac''': Uh sir, that name on the system exploration report. Uh, D. Karnes. Is that Damon Karnes?
'''Maverick''': You had your chance, Maniac. This one's mine. Woah!


'''Tolwyn''': Yes it is.


'''Payback''': Friend of yours?
====SCENE - Bridge====


'''Maniac''': Damon Karnes was the best pilot that ever flew for the Confederation.
'''Tolwyn''': Any more contacts?


'''Maverick''': I've heard of Karnes. Didn't he disappear in space about ten years ago?
'''Sensor Tech''': No sir. Astral flare. It's off the scale! Our shields are holding.


'''Tolwyn''': Look, this isn't a history lesson, get moving.
'''Tolwyn''': What about the fighters? Their shields are a lot weaker than ours.




====SCENE - Space====
====SCENE - Space====


'''Maverick''': Engaging automatic navigation.
'''Maverick''': (screams)
 
'''Maniac''': (screams)
 
'''Payback''': (screams)


'''Maniac''': (sigh) Autonav engaged. Some hotshot pilots, we might as well take the bus.
'''Blizzard''': (screams)


'''Maverick''': Maniac, proximity alert. Switch to manual control.
===Act Two===


'''Maniac''': Huh, what's up?


'''Maverick''': Unidentified ship coming in. Shut down your systems, we'll blend into the background. I've got target lock. A Kilrathi transport!
====SCENE - Space====


'''Maniac''': All right! Let's take it out.
'''Blizzard''': Control.


'''Maverick''': Negative. You must have been asleep in tactics class, we slip into his particle trail and follow him. That transport might lead us to a Kilrathi base or a fleet.


'''Maniac''': Yeah, well, there better be a whole fleet of transports.
====SCENE - Tiger's Claw Bridge====


'''Maverick''': Multiple contacts closing on transport. Small ships, fighters!
'''Tolwyn''': Get those ships aboard, now.


'''Maniac''': Oh, I knew it! We waited too long, now its picked up a fighter escort. Oh, that's the last time I ever listen to you.
'''Communications Tech''': Hangar deck, landing status code one. Stand by for emergency landing.


'''Maverick''': Wait, the transport's changing course. It's trying to evade the fighters. It's under attack.


'''Maniac''': What do you mean under attack? I wish somebody 'd tell me what's going on here. Oh, I had to ask!
====SCENE - Tiger's Claw Hangar====


'''Maverick''': Missile lock red! We're in their sights.
'''Archer''': C'mon guys, make it back. Make it back.


===Act Two===


====SCENE - Space====
====SCENE - Space====


'''Maverick''': Missile's locked on. (grunts) I can't shake him. Launch decoys and break formation.  
'''Flight Control''': That's it Blizzard. Pitch down a couple of degrees so you can see the hangar.
 
'''Blizzard''': I... I can see it.
 
'''Flight Control''': Good job, line up on the markers.
 
'''Blizzard''': Got to... take it... in...
 
'''Flight Control''': You're coming in too fast! Too wide! Too wide! Abort! Abort!
 
 
====SCENE - Flight Deck====
 
'''Archer''': Blizzard! I got you Blizzard! (grunts)
 
'''Blizzard''': (groans)
 
'''Archer''': You're safe now! You're okay.
 
'''Blizzard''': I knew... it would be you... Gwen...
 
'''Archer''': Medic! I need a medic here!
 
 
====SCENE - Sickbay====


'''Maniac''': I still got a lock, it's no good.
'''Tolwyn''': It seems the larger star intermittently draws energy from the smaller one, creating an energy surge between them. You four were just unlucky, in the wrong place at teh wrong time. However, you've all been medically cleared for duty. So, on your feet! Everyone but Marshall, dismissed. Look, I understand you were flying Archer's fighter.


'''Maverick''': Maniac? Maniac!
'''Marshall''': Whatever she said, it's a lie. She's been jealous of me from the minute we joined the Academy.


'''Maniac''': Hey! I'm alive. (laughs) Shields are down... and I've lost main engines.
'''Tolwyn''': I was going to commend your initiative, Cadet.


'''Maverick''': Hang on, I'm coming.  
'''Maniac''': Ah, sure. Thank you, sir.


'''Maniac''': Negative Maverick, get back to the 'Claw. This is just great! Alright jerk, what are you waiting for? Get it over with. Maverick!
'''Tolwyn''': You're dismissed.


'''Maverick''': (grunts)


'''Karnes''': Surrender immediately or be destroyed.
====SCENE - Hallway====


'''Maniac''': Tell him to blow it out his afterburners, Mav.
'''Maniac''': Archer's turned Tolwyn against me.


'''Maverick''': We surrender.


====SCENE - Blizzard's Quarters====


====SCENE - Tortuga Hangar====
'''Blizzard''': (grunts) Must regain control. (grunts) Must regain control. (groans)


'''Dral''': Welcome to Tortuga. Believe me, you won't like it.
'''Archer''': Blizzard? What are you doing in the dark?


'''Maniac''': Oh, I don't know... it seems like a nice place you've got here.
'''Blizzard''': Uh, nothing. I'm glad you came. Uh, I... I want to thank you for pulling me out of that.


'''Dral''': This is not my place. It belongs to him.
'''Archer''': Forget it, I would've done the same for any pilot in trouble.


'''Maniac''': What? It can't be.
'''Blizzard''': Oh. I thought it was because you knew.


'''Maverick''': What's wrong, Maniac.
'''Archer''': Knew what?


'''Maniac''': It's Damon Karnes.
'''Blizzard''': That I... know I... lve you.


'''Archer''': You, what? Oh, did Payback put you up to this? Oh, wait until I get my hands on her.


====SCENE - Tortuga Dining Room====
'''Blizzard''': No, I've loved you since the first minute I saw you, Gwen.


'''Maniac''': What's Damon Karnes doing here with these... renegades?
'''Archer''': You, you really mean...?


'''Maverick''': Right now, he's holding us prisoner.
'''Blizzard''': I want you to have this.


'''Maniac''': I mean, I had a holovid about Karnes when I was a kid, The Last Hero. I, I must have watched it about a hundred times.
'''Archer''': Blizzard, you know I can't accept that.


'''Karnes''': Propaganda. That vid was made by the Confederation to persuade gullible children to become pilots. Apparently it worked.


'''Maniac''': But... you were the best!
====SCENE - Hallway====


'''Karnes''': Sometimes being the best isn't enough.
'''Archer''': Did you see which way Blizzard went?


'''Karnes''': One day I realized I no longer cared who won the war. I had no hatred for the Kilrathi and no love for the Confederation. I had no feelings at all. Space has that effect on some people. When you look too long into emptiness, the emptiness gets inside you. So one day I went out on patrol and I just kept going. Eventually I found others like myself. Humans, Kilrathi, renegades, outcasts. Now, we take what we need to survive from all sides. You disapprove?  
'''Maniac''': Why? You want to rat him out too?


'''Maverick''': Is that why you keep us alive? You want our approval?


'''Karnes''': I let you live because I'm bored.
====SCENE - Guthrig's Office====


'''Maverick''': I believe a person's life should serve a purpose.
'''Archer''': I'm kind of worried something strange is going on with Blizzard. He said he well, he said that he was in love with me.


'''Karnes''': There are two kinds in the galaxy, only two. Those who fly in order to get somewhere and those who love to fly.  
'''Guthrig''': I see. How did you feel when he said that?


'''Archer''': It was scary. I mean this is a guy who's always in control, like nothing could ever touch him. And suddenly he's all emotional.


====SCENE - Tortuga Prison Cell====
'''Guthrig''': Does it frighten you to think someone might be in love with you?


'''Maverick''': Tolwyn could send out search parties for a thousand years and still not find this place, it's too well hidden.
'''Archer''': This isn't about me, it's Blizzard. And there's something weird about Maniac, t oo, the way he's been watching me and...


'''Maniac''': If you'd have let me take out that transport when we first spotted it none of this would've happened.
'''Guthrig''': Do you think Maniac's in love with you too?


'''Maverick''': Yeah, if your hero hadn't gone insane...
'''Archer''': Will you just listen to me?


'''Maniac''': He was out here for twenty years. You don't know the things he's seen. The things he had to do.


'''Maverick''': He wasn't strong enough to take it.
====SCENE - Ready Room====


'''Maniac''': You don't have the right to judge him!
'''Kilrathi''': We've got your family. We'll get yoo, too.


'''Maverick''': Give me that! You should've studied your unarmed combat manual.
'''Payback''': (gasps)


'''Maniac''': (screams) Give me.
'''Kilrathi''': (growls)


'''Karnes''': That's enough. Sensors have detected another transport. We're going to take it.
'''Hyena''': Payback! Stop! Stop! What are you, nuts or something?


'''Maniac''': Uh, I'd like to go along.
'''Payback''': Where's the cat? You know, the Kilrathi? Where, where is he?


'''Maverick''': What?!
'''Hyena''': You are nuts. Look, if this is your idea of a joke, get a sense of humor before you try another one, okay?


'''Maniac''': Ever since I was a little boy, I wanted to fly with you.


'''Karnes''': What about you?
====SCENE - Maverick's Quarters====


'''Maverick''': Is it a Kilrathi ship, or Terran?
'''Maverick''': And the Kilrathi attacked without any thought of their own survival. How can we hope to beat them? They're so willing to sacrifice themselves! What if we're not good enough? What if I'm not brave enough? Come in. What is it, Payback? What's wrong?


'''Karnes''': Does it matter to you?
'''Payback''': The Kilrathi. They're aboard the ship.


'''Maniac''': No.
'''Maverick''': What? The Kilrathi? Have you told Commodore Tolwyn?


'''Karnes''': Then come with me.
'''Payback''': I can't. If the Kilrathi found out, they'd get me. Just like they got my family.




====SCENE - Space====
====SCENE - Bridge====
 
'''Maverick''': Payback was right! And now Tolwyn's gone over to them.
 
'''Archer''': Sir, this may sound strange but I think that astral flare did something to the four pilots who were outside when we were hit. Affected their minds somehow.
 
'''Tolwyn''': Really, Cadet Bowman. Maybe this has something to with Cadet Marshall taking your ship.
 
'''Archer''': Sir, what are you...
 
'''Guthrig''': Uh, Bowman told me the electrical systems on those fighters were completely scambled. Technical section should've told me. The human mind is the most delicate electrical instrument of all.
 
'''Tolwyn''': Are you saying their brains have been scrambled.
 
'''Hyena''': Uh, Payback, I mean Cadet Price, attacked me, sir. Like she thought I was a furball.
 
'''Guthrig''': Psycho-electrical derangement could cause hallucinations that would explain the Kilrathi's suicidal attack.
 
'''Tolwyn''': The Kilrathi don't need explanations.
 
'''Guthrig''': Even the Kilrathi don't throw their lives away. They should've known their attack was futile. If they were in their right mind. Their judgement may have been impaired by exposure to a previous energy flare.
 
'''Tolwyn''': Order Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz to the bridge immediately.
 
'''Communications Tech''': Yes, sir. Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.
 
 
====SCENE - Hallway====
 
'''Communications Tech''': Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.
 
'''Maverick''': They're on to us. Maniac and Blizzard are the only ones we can trust.
 
'''Blizzard''': Gwen, open the door. You've got to help me.
 
'''Communications Tech''': Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.
 
'''Blizzard''': Please, they're after me. You've got to help.
 
 
====SCENE - Archer's Quarters====
 
'''Blizzard''': I, I... don't know what to do, Gwen. I'm scared. I always knew before. It's not me. I'm not me.
 
'''Archer''': It is you, Alan. It's the real you. The one you've tried to hide all your life. You're afraid of yourself, of your feelings. Of the things that make you real. How could I ever care for someone that wasn't real?
 
'''Head Security Guard''': Hold it right there. Even a rookie like you should know the crew's quarters are wired for security. Say, you're one of those cadets they're looking for. Crew level D, Security to bridge;
 
'''Maniac''': Move it, we gotta get out of here.
 
 
====SCENE - Hallway====
 
'''Maverick''': Maniac, Blizzard! They're after us. We've got to find a safe place to hide.
 
'''Communications Tech''': Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.
 
'''Maniac''': I know a place.
 
 
====SCENE - Cargo Bay====
 
'''Tolwyn''': This is a direct order. Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz contact the bridge immediately.
 
'''Payback''': The Kilrathi have got the whole ship.
 
'''Maverick''': Even Tolwyn's gone over to them. I saw three Kilrathi on the bridge.
 
'''Maniac''': Archer's in on it, too. I've been watching her. She sabotaged my weapons systems so they wouldn't fire.
 
'''Blizzard''': No, not Archer.
 
'''Maverick''': We're the only ones left.
 
'''Blizzard''': What are we going to do?
 
'''Maverick''': We take the Broadsword bombers, they're jump capable. We can escape to another system.
 
'''Payback''': No, Broadswords are too slow. Tolwyn'll scramble fighters. They'll get us before we can even reach the jump node.


'''Dral''': The Confederation coward is running. I knew he couldn't be trusted.
'''Maniac''': Not if we destroy the Tiger's Claw. The Broadswords have enough firepower.  


'''Karnes''': He's no coward, he's going back to Tortuga. Continue the attack. I'll deal with Maniac.
'''Blizzard''': It's our only chance.


'''Maniac''': Maniac to Tiger's Claw. Come in, Tiger's Claw.
'''Maverick''': Let's do it.


===Act Three===
===Act Three===


====SCENE - Space====
====SCENE - Bridge====
 
'''Tolwyn''': Arrest Blair, price, Marshall and Getz. they may be dangerous. USe any force that's necessary. You know these people. Where would they go? What would they do?
 
'''Archer''': They're pilots, sir. THey'd want to be in a ship.
 
'''Tolwyn''': The hangar deck, now!
 
 
====SCENE - Hangar Deck====
 
'''Maya''': Hey! If you want to know something about my birds you ask me.
 
'''Maverick''': Are these two weapons prepped?
 
'''Maya''': Yeah, they're ready to go. We've been on standby alert since we tangled with those Kilrathi.
 
'''Maverick''': Sure, I'll bet you have.
 
'''Head Security Guard''': Stay where you are, Blair.
 
'''Payback''': Let me go you stinking furballs.
 
'''Maya''': Hey, wait a minute!
 
'''Maniac''': The Broadsword, come on!
 
'''Head Security Guard''': Stun force only.


'''Maniac''': Come on, you piece of junk. (screams) You were the best, Karnes. That should've been enough. What? Hey!
'''Archer''': We gotta go after them.


'''Karnes''': Your long range communications and weapons don't work. It's been a long time since I trusted anyone.


'''Maniac''': (screams)
====SCENE - Space====


'''Karnes''': You should've joined us. You're the first pilot in a long time good enough to stay on my tail.
'''Maverick''': Arming torpedoes.


'''Maniac''': I'm not like you.  
'''Archer''': Maverick, listen. You gotta listen to me. That astral flare did something to your brain. I'm not a Kilrathi. You're hallucinating, it's all in your head.


'''Karnes''': I know, I was like your friend, Maverick.
'''Hyena''': Like that brain scrambling couldn't have affected his aim, too.


'''Maniac''': No way, he'd never turn his back on the Confederation like you did.
'''Archer''': Blizzard, this isn't you! You can fight it! I know you can!


'''Karnes''': You think you know him. But people change. They have to. War isn't a game for children.
'''Maverick''': (scream) What? What am I doing? That's the Tiger's Claw.


'''Dral''': Dral to Karnes. Emergency, come in.


'''Karnes''': What is it, Dral?
====SCENE - Bridge====


'''Dral''': It's a trap. The transport was  bait to lure us into the open... there are too many of them. We're being taken over...
'''Sensor Tech''': One Broadsword's turned away. But the other's got a torpedo lock. The target's the bridge, sir.


'''Karnes''': Dral? Dral?
'''Tolwyn''': Divert all power to the shields. If just one torpedo gets through...


'''Maniac''': It's over Karnes. The world you built is falling apart.


'''Karnes''': Perhaps. But every soldier must fight his last battle.
====SCENE - Space====


'''Maniac''': Oh! Maverick always said I should study the tech manuals more. I hate it when he's right.
'''Archer''': Alan, you said you loved me. If that's just a little bit true, you've got to believe me.


'''Blizzard''': Gwen, I... Kilrathi liar!


====SCENE - Tortuga Orbit====
'''Tolwyn''': Fire, Bowman! Fire!


'''Karnes''': The whole universe to fight.
'''Archer''': Eject, Alan, eject! Eject.




====SCENE - Tortuga Exterior====
====SCENE - Sickbay====


'''Soldier #1''': My Lord, this is the last one left. We found him locked in a cell.  
'''Guthrig''': You need more psychological tests before I can return you to duty, but this bio-electric stimulation seems to have returned your brain functions to normal.


'''Thrakhath''': Why were you locked up, Terran?  
'''Maniac''': How come you didn't zap Maniac, too?


'''Maverick''': I guess I'm just a renegade.
'''Maverick''': Don't worry, I got mine when Hyena's laser shorted out my cockpit circuits.


'''Thrakhath''': (laughs) Vermin. I am Thrakhath nar Kiranka, Prince of Kilrah, the Fang of Sivar, Destroyer of Worlds. You renegades attacked Kilrathi ships. For that offensive I have destroyed you to the last man. But you will be left alive. You will tell what happened here so the galaxy may be warned: to attack the Kilrathi is to die.
'''PaybacK''': Too bad the treatment came too late for Blizzard.




====SCENE - Tortuga Hangar====
====SCENE - Observation Deck====


'''Maverick''': Ow!
'''Archer''': There's something I've got to ask you, about Blizzard.


'''Maniac''': Must have been some party. I'm glad I missed it. You know I was lying to Karnes, didn't you?
'''Guthrig''': Depression and self-doubt are normal reactions to losing a comrade.  


'''Maverick''': I hoped you were. If I can get mine started, we'll take a look at the heap you're flying. Sounds like you need a tune up.  
'''Archer''': It's not about that. I did what I had to do to save the ship. It's about the hallucinations. Did they come out of nowhere or did they really mean something?


'''Maniac''': Hey, what do you mean heap? That heap can out fly you any day.
'''Guthrig''': The delusions seem to have been exagerrations of surpressed emotions. Self doubt, jealous rivalry, fear of the Kilrathi.


'''Archer''': Then Blizzard really did...


====SCENE - Commodore Tolwyn's Office====
'''Guthrig''': Blizzard really did what?


'''Tolwyn''': It seems the Kilrathi task force has jumped out of the system. Probably its only purpose was to destroy the renegades. This whole Damon Karnes affair was classified top secret by the Confederation years ago. You're never to mention Karnes again. Not even to the other cadets.
'''Archer''': Nothing, Doctor. It doesn't matter now.


'''Maniac''': You mean the Confederation knew what he'd become? They knew he was a renegade?
{{-}}
{{tvepisodes/doc}}


'''Tolwyn''': They knew. They thought the truth about Karnes would be bad for morale. People need heroes.
[[category:Wing Commander Academy Episodes]]

Latest revision as of 15:27, 6 July 2020

The Most Delicate Instrument is the third episode of Wing Commander Academy.


The Most Delicate Instrument
1x003-Title.png
Episode Number 1x03
Production Code 74703
Story Mark Edens
Writer(s) Shari Goodhartz
Air Date October 5, 1996
Run Time 20m55s
Animation Studio Madhouse
Theme Version 2
Previous The Last One Left
Next Word of Honor



Summary

Act One

Terran Confederation Empire of Kilrah
Strength
4 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters
1 Bengal strike carrier (TCS Tiger's Claw) 		2 Grikath heavy fighters
Losses
1 Scimitar destroyed 2 Grikath destroyed

Act Two

Act Three

Terran Confederation Hallucinating Pilots
Strength
2 F-54 Epee medium attack fighters
1 Bengal strike carrier (TCS Tiger's Claw) 		2 CF-131 Broadsword bombers
Losses
1 Broadsword destroyed, 1 captured

Characters

Speaking

  • Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn

    Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn

  • 2nd Lt. Christopher "Maverick" Blair

    2nd Lt. Christopher "Maverick" Blair

  • 2nd Lt. Gwen "Archer" Bowman

    2nd Lt. Gwen "Archer" Bowman

  • 2nd Lt. Todd "Maniac" Marshall

    2nd Lt. Todd "Maniac" Marshall

  • 2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price

    2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price

  • 2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang

    2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang

  • 2nd Lt. Alan "Blizzard" Getz

    2nd Lt. Alan "Blizzard" Getz

  • Tech Specialist Maya McEaddens

    Tech Specialist Maya McEaddens

  • Doctor Guthrig Andropolos

    Doctor Guthrig Andropolos

  • Sensor Tech

    Sensor Tech

  • Communications Tech

    Communications Tech

  • Head Security Guard

    Head Security Guard

  • Kilrathi Warrior

    Kilrathi Warrior

Nonspeaking

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

    Tiger's Claw Ground Crews

  • Tiger's Claw Security Guards (3)

    Tiger's Claw Security Guards (3)

  • Kilrathi Warrior (3)

    Kilrathi Warrior (3)

  • Kilrathi Warrior

    Kilrathi Warrior

Kill Board

Pilot Sorties Kills Status
Maniac 5 3 (1 partial) Active
Maverick 4 1 (partial) Active
Archer 3 1 Active
Blizzard 2 1 KIA
Payback 4 0 Active
Easy 1 0 Active
Grunt 1 0 Active
Hyena 1 0 Active
Jazzman 1 0 Active
Viking 1 0 Retired

Locations

Tiger's Claw

1x03-TigersClaw.png

  • Briefing Room

    Briefing Room

  • Locker Room

    Locker Room

  • Outside Elevator

    Outside Elevator

  • Elevator

    Elevator

  • Hangar

    Hangar

  • Bridge

    Bridge

  • Hallway

    Hallway

  • Sick Bay

    Sick Bay

  • Outside Sick Bay

    Outside Sick Bay

  • Blizzard's Quarters

    Blizzard's Quarters

  • Outside Blizzard's Quarters

    Outside Blizzard's Quarters

  • Guthrig's Office

    Guthrig's Office

  • Maverick's Quarters

    Maverick's Quarters

  • Archer's Quarters

    Archer's Quarters

  • Outside Archer's Quarters

    Outside Archer's Quarters

  • Hallway near Elevator

    Hallway near Elevator

  • Corridor Junction

    Corridor Junction

  • Cargo Bay

    Cargo Bay

  • Observation Deck

    Observation Deck

Binary Star System

1x03-BinarySystem.png

  • Asteroid Field

    Asteroid Field

Cockpits

  • Scimitar

    Scimitar

  • Broadsword

    Broadsword

  • Epee

    Epee

Ships

Terran Confederation

Fighters

Capital Ships

Empire of Kilrah

Fighters

Vehicles

Terran Confederation

  • Recovery Vehicle

    Recovery Vehicle

Small Arms

Terran Confederation

  • Pistol

    Pistol

  • Rifle

    Rifle

Trivia

Animation Errors

Credits

Role Name
Story by Mark Edens
Written by Shari Goodhartz
Producer Larry Latham
Executive Story Editors Mark Edens
Michael Edens
Executive Consultant Ralph Sanchez
Executive Story Consultants Richard Hilleman
Adam Foshko
Starring Mark Hamill (Maverick, Communications Tech, Security Guard)
Tom Wilson (Maniac)
Malcolm McDowell (Tolwyn)
Dana Delany (Archer)
Also Starring Lauri Hendler (Payback, Maya, Sensor Tech)
Kevin Schoen (Hyena, Kilrathi Warrior)
Pat Fraley (Guthrig, Blizzard)
Music by Alexander Van Bubenheim
Voice Direction and Casting Susan Blu
Pre-Production Sound by Screenmusic Studios, Inc.
Pre-Production Sound Mixer Pete Elia
Recording Assistant Mark Caballero
Storyboards Tim Eldred
JC Ponce
Barking Bullfrog Cartoon Co. Inc.
Storyboard Cleanup Judy Nielson
Timing Directors Zeon Davush
Gerard Baldwin
Character Design Larry Latham
Tim Eldred
Prop Design Lee Go
Background Design Derek Carter
Background Color Key Kathryn Yelsa
Computer Color Key Cynthia McIntosh
Studio Production Manager Alex Johns
Production Manager Patty Jausoro
Production Coordinator Estrella Capin
Production Assistants Aaron Justman
Scott Huml
Manuel Cano
Monte Alexander
Junior Gonzalez
Danik Thomas
Executive in Charge of Post Production Barbara Beck
Editors Jay Bixsen
Paul D. Calder
Assistant Editor Michael Trueba
Track Reading Glenwood Editorial
Negative Cutting Executive Cutting
Post Production Video Unitel Video, Hollywood
Post Production Sound West Productions Inc.
Supervising Sound Editor Rick Hinson
Re-Recording Mixers John Boyd
Stuart Calderon
Overseas Animation Studio Madhouse Animation
Overseas Animation Director Masao Maryuyama
Produced in Association with USA Network

Transcript

Act One

SCENE - Briefing Room

Tolwyn: Pay special attention to your drift indicators. These binary stars generate a complex gravitational field. There are no planets... the gravity has pulled them apart before they can form. Now your mission is to scout the asteroid belt. You'll divide into two patrols lead by cadets Blair and Getz.

Maverick: Thank you, sir.

Blizzard: Sir.

Tolwyn: You launch in one hour. Watch out for flying rocks. Dismissed.


SCENE - Ready Room

Payback: With all of space to choose from, Tolwyn can really choose some nasty asteroids for his training exercises. 'Watch out for flying rocks.' (grunts) Man, I hate asteroids.

Archer: Ah, the old man's got his reasons. The Kilrathi won't always let you pick where you want to fight. We need to practice.

Payback: So we play hide and seek in the asteroids. I just want one clear shot at a furball capship.

Blizzard: Archer, I want you to fly wing with me.

Archer: Uh, sure Blizzard.

Blizzard: Good.

Payback: That's the most I've heard Blizzard say since he joined the Academy. I think he likes you.

Archer: (sighs) No way. He'd have to have emotions for that. And they'd get in the way of his flying. (laughs)

Payback: (laughs)

Maverick: What's the joke?

Payback: (laughs) Trust me, you don't want to know.


SCENE - Elevator

Guthrig: (clears throat) I'm on my way to the hangar deck to jog. Even a psychiatrist can appreciate the value of exercise.

Maverick: I thought it might be something like that. Well, we've got a training mission to fly.

Guthrig: I see. I believe numerous banter is useful in relieving pre-flight tension.

Blizzard: I'm never tense.

Archer: That's why we call him Blizzard... he's always frosty.

Guthrig: I see.


SCENE - Flight Deck

Maverick: Hey Maniac, that's my ride.

Maniac: I was just looking out for you, hotshot. Asking, uh, McEadance here if there was a way to boost your shields. There's an awful lot of rocks out here.

Maverick: Yeah, I'll prep my own fighter.

Maya: No, you'll watch me do it.

Maverick: Well, sure Maya, that's what I meant. What was that?

Maniac: We were hit by something, genius. Probably an asteroid.

Maya: That was a missile impact. Felt like the n umber six shield to me.

Tolwyn: Condition red. We are under attack. All pilots to your fighters. Repeat, this is not a drill.

Archer: (groans) Hey! Hold it, Maniac!

Maniac: Sorry Archer, no time to talk.


SCENE - Space

Maverick: Break, break! He's not even trying to pull out.

Blizzard: Stay with me, Payback.

Payback: I'm on your wing, Blizzard.

Blizzard: Arming energy guns.

Payback: This furball's not stopping.

Blizzard: Fire.

Payback: His shields held, break right. N ow!

Maniac: Alright, you faced the rest, now face the best. Hey! Uh. Oh no, my missiles weren't prepped (scream)

Maverick: I'm on his six.

Maniac: Get out of there, Maverick.

Maverick: You had your chance, Maniac. This one's mine. Woah!


SCENE - Bridge

Tolwyn: Any more contacts?

Sensor Tech: No sir. Astral flare. It's off the scale! Our shields are holding.

Tolwyn: What about the fighters? Their shields are a lot weaker than ours.


SCENE - Space

Maverick: (screams)

Maniac: (screams)

Payback: (screams)

Blizzard: (screams)

Act Two

SCENE - Space

Blizzard: Control.


SCENE - Tiger's Claw Bridge

Tolwyn: Get those ships aboard, now.

Communications Tech: Hangar deck, landing status code one. Stand by for emergency landing.


SCENE - Tiger's Claw Hangar

Archer: C'mon guys, make it back. Make it back.


SCENE - Space

Flight Control: That's it Blizzard. Pitch down a couple of degrees so you can see the hangar.

Blizzard: I... I can see it.

Flight Control: Good job, line up on the markers.

Blizzard: Got to... take it... in...

Flight Control: You're coming in too fast! Too wide! Too wide! Abort! Abort!


SCENE - Flight Deck

Archer: Blizzard! I got you Blizzard! (grunts)

Blizzard: (groans)

Archer: You're safe now! You're okay.

Blizzard: I knew... it would be you... Gwen...

Archer: Medic! I need a medic here!


SCENE - Sickbay

Tolwyn: It seems the larger star intermittently draws energy from the smaller one, creating an energy surge between them. You four were just unlucky, in the wrong place at teh wrong time. However, you've all been medically cleared for duty. So, on your feet! Everyone but Marshall, dismissed. Look, I understand you were flying Archer's fighter.

Marshall: Whatever she said, it's a lie. She's been jealous of me from the minute we joined the Academy.

Tolwyn: I was going to commend your initiative, Cadet.

Maniac: Ah, sure. Thank you, sir.

Tolwyn: You're dismissed.


SCENE - Hallway

Maniac: Archer's turned Tolwyn against me.


SCENE - Blizzard's Quarters

Blizzard: (grunts) Must regain control. (grunts) Must regain control. (groans)

Archer: Blizzard? What are you doing in the dark?

Blizzard: Uh, nothing. I'm glad you came. Uh, I... I want to thank you for pulling me out of that.

Archer: Forget it, I would've done the same for any pilot in trouble.

Blizzard: Oh. I thought it was because you knew.

Archer: Knew what?

Blizzard: That I... know I... lve you.

Archer: You, what? Oh, did Payback put you up to this? Oh, wait until I get my hands on her.

Blizzard: No, I've loved you since the first minute I saw you, Gwen.

Archer: You, you really mean...?

Blizzard: I want you to have this.

Archer: Blizzard, you know I can't accept that.


SCENE - Hallway

Archer: Did you see which way Blizzard went?

Maniac: Why? You want to rat him out too?


SCENE - Guthrig's Office

Archer: I'm kind of worried something strange is going on with Blizzard. He said he well, he said that he was in love with me.

Guthrig: I see. How did you feel when he said that?

Archer: It was scary. I mean this is a guy who's always in control, like nothing could ever touch him. And suddenly he's all emotional.

Guthrig: Does it frighten you to think someone might be in love with you?

Archer: This isn't about me, it's Blizzard. And there's something weird about Maniac, t oo, the way he's been watching me and...

Guthrig: Do you think Maniac's in love with you too?

Archer: Will you just listen to me?


SCENE - Ready Room

Kilrathi: We've got your family. We'll get yoo, too.

Payback: (gasps)

Kilrathi: (growls)

Hyena: Payback! Stop! Stop! What are you, nuts or something?

Payback: Where's the cat? You know, the Kilrathi? Where, where is he?

Hyena: You are nuts. Look, if this is your idea of a joke, get a sense of humor before you try another one, okay?


SCENE - Maverick's Quarters

Maverick: And the Kilrathi attacked without any thought of their own survival. How can we hope to beat them? They're so willing to sacrifice themselves! What if we're not good enough? What if I'm not brave enough? Come in. What is it, Payback? What's wrong?

Payback: The Kilrathi. They're aboard the ship.

Maverick: What? The Kilrathi? Have you told Commodore Tolwyn?

Payback: I can't. If the Kilrathi found out, they'd get me. Just like they got my family.


SCENE - Bridge

Maverick: Payback was right! And now Tolwyn's gone over to them.

Archer: Sir, this may sound strange but I think that astral flare did something to the four pilots who were outside when we were hit. Affected their minds somehow.

Tolwyn: Really, Cadet Bowman. Maybe this has something to with Cadet Marshall taking your ship.

Archer: Sir, what are you...

Guthrig: Uh, Bowman told me the electrical systems on those fighters were completely scambled. Technical section should've told me. The human mind is the most delicate electrical instrument of all.

Tolwyn: Are you saying their brains have been scrambled.

Hyena: Uh, Payback, I mean Cadet Price, attacked me, sir. Like she thought I was a furball.

Guthrig: Psycho-electrical derangement could cause hallucinations that would explain the Kilrathi's suicidal attack.

Tolwyn: The Kilrathi don't need explanations.

Guthrig: Even the Kilrathi don't throw their lives away. They should've known their attack was futile. If they were in their right mind. Their judgement may have been impaired by exposure to a previous energy flare.

Tolwyn: Order Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz to the bridge immediately.

Communications Tech: Yes, sir. Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.


SCENE - Hallway

Communications Tech: Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.

Maverick: They're on to us. Maniac and Blizzard are the only ones we can trust.

Blizzard: Gwen, open the door. You've got to help me.

Communications Tech: Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.

Blizzard: Please, they're after me. You've got to help.


SCENE - Archer's Quarters

Blizzard: I, I... don't know what to do, Gwen. I'm scared. I always knew before. It's not me. I'm not me.

Archer: It is you, Alan. It's the real you. The one you've tried to hide all your life. You're afraid of yourself, of your feelings. Of the things that make you real. How could I ever care for someone that wasn't real?

Head Security Guard: Hold it right there. Even a rookie like you should know the crew's quarters are wired for security. Say, you're one of those cadets they're looking for. Crew level D, Security to bridge;

Maniac: Move it, we gotta get out of here.


SCENE - Hallway

Maverick: Maniac, Blizzard! They're after us. We've got to find a safe place to hide.

Communications Tech: Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz report to the bridge immediately.

Maniac: I know a place.


SCENE - Cargo Bay

Tolwyn: This is a direct order. Cadets Blair, Marshall, Price and Getz contact the bridge immediately.

Payback: The Kilrathi have got the whole ship.

Maverick: Even Tolwyn's gone over to them. I saw three Kilrathi on the bridge.

Maniac: Archer's in on it, too. I've been watching her. She sabotaged my weapons systems so they wouldn't fire.

Blizzard: No, not Archer.

Maverick: We're the only ones left.

Blizzard: What are we going to do?

Maverick: We take the Broadsword bombers, they're jump capable. We can escape to another system.

Payback: No, Broadswords are too slow. Tolwyn'll scramble fighters. They'll get us before we can even reach the jump node.

Maniac: Not if we destroy the Tiger's Claw. The Broadswords have enough firepower.

Blizzard: It's our only chance.

Maverick: Let's do it.

Act Three

SCENE - Bridge

Tolwyn: Arrest Blair, price, Marshall and Getz. they may be dangerous. USe any force that's necessary. You know these people. Where would they go? What would they do?

Archer: They're pilots, sir. THey'd want to be in a ship.

Tolwyn: The hangar deck, now!


SCENE - Hangar Deck

Maya: Hey! If you want to know something about my birds you ask me.

Maverick: Are these two weapons prepped?

Maya: Yeah, they're ready to go. We've been on standby alert since we tangled with those Kilrathi.

Maverick: Sure, I'll bet you have.

Head Security Guard: Stay where you are, Blair.

Payback: Let me go you stinking furballs.

Maya: Hey, wait a minute!

Maniac: The Broadsword, come on!

Head Security Guard: Stun force only.

Archer: We gotta go after them.


SCENE - Space

Maverick: Arming torpedoes.

Archer: Maverick, listen. You gotta listen to me. That astral flare did something to your brain. I'm not a Kilrathi. You're hallucinating, it's all in your head.

Hyena: Like that brain scrambling couldn't have affected his aim, too.

Archer: Blizzard, this isn't you! You can fight it! I know you can!

Maverick: (scream) What? What am I doing? That's the Tiger's Claw.


SCENE - Bridge

Sensor Tech: One Broadsword's turned away. But the other's got a torpedo lock. The target's the bridge, sir.

Tolwyn: Divert all power to the shields. If just one torpedo gets through...


SCENE - Space

Archer: Alan, you said you loved me. If that's just a little bit true, you've got to believe me.

Blizzard: Gwen, I... Kilrathi liar!

Tolwyn: Fire, Bowman! Fire!

Archer: Eject, Alan, eject! Eject.


SCENE - Sickbay

Guthrig: You need more psychological tests before I can return you to duty, but this bio-electric stimulation seems to have returned your brain functions to normal.

Maniac: How come you didn't zap Maniac, too?

Maverick: Don't worry, I got mine when Hyena's laser shorted out my cockpit circuits.

PaybacK: Too bad the treatment came too late for Blizzard.


SCENE - Observation Deck

Archer: There's something I've got to ask you, about Blizzard.

Guthrig: Depression and self-doubt are normal reactions to losing a comrade.

Archer: It's not about that. I did what I had to do to save the ship. It's about the hallucinations. Did they come out of nowhere or did they really mean something?

Guthrig: The delusions seem to have been exagerrations of surpressed emotions. Self doubt, jealous rivalry, fear of the Kilrathi.

Archer: Then Blizzard really did...

Guthrig: Blizzard really did what?

Archer: Nothing, Doctor. It doesn't matter now.


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