Expendable: Difference between revisions

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!colspan="3"|Strength
!colspan="3"|Strength
|-
|-
|6 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters<br>1 CF-131 Broadsword bombers
|3 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters
|2 Grikath heavy fighters<br>1 Kamekh corvette
|1 Jump Buoy
|-
|-
!colspan="3"|Losses
!colspan="3"|Losses
|-
|-
|1 Scimitar destroyed
|
|2 Grikath and 1 Kamekh destroyed
|1 Jump Buoy destroyed
|-
|-
|}
|}


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


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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!colspan="3"|Strength
!colspan="3"|Strength
|-
|-
|13 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters<br>3 CF-131 Broadsword bombers
|2 CF-131 Broadsword bombers
|15 Dralthi medium fighters<br>4 Grikath heavy fighters<br>3 Kamekh corvettes<br>2 Ralar destroyers<br>20 unidentified fighters
|5 Sartha light fighters<br>3 Grikath heavy fighters<br>2 Fralthi destroyers<br>3 carriers<br>1 dreadnaught
|-
|-
!colspan="3"|Losses
!colspan="3"|Losses
|-
|-
|1 Broadsword destroyed
|1 Broadsword destroyed
|2 Grikath and 1 Ralar destroyed
|1 Sartha, 2 Grikath and 1 Fralthi destroyed
|-
|-
|}
|}


===Act Three===
===Act Three===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Terran Confederation
! Empire of Kilrah
|-
!colspan="3"|Strength
|-
|15 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters<br>1 CF-131 Broadsword bomber<br>1 Bengal class strike carrier
|7 Dralthi medium fighters
|-
!colspan="3"|Losses
|-
|
|7 Dralthi destroyed
|-
|}


==Characters==
==Characters==
Line 64: Line 80:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Bergstrom.png|Admiral Rhea Bergstrom
Image:1x07-Tolwyn.png|Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn
Image:1x06-Tolwyn.png|Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn
Image:1x07-Nelson.png|Commander Nelson
Image:1x06-Nelson.png|Commander Nelson
Image:1x07-ArnoldBlair.png|Major Arnold Blair
Image:1x06-Maverick.png|2nd Lt. Christopher "Maverick" Blair
Image:1x07-Maverick.png|2nd Lt. Christopher "Maverick" Blair
Image:1x06-Archer.png|2nd Lt. Gwen "Archer" Bowman
Image:1x07-Archer.png|2nd Lt. Gwen "Archer" Bowman
Image:1x06-Maniac.png|2nd Lt. Todd "Maniac" Marshall
Image:1x07-Maniac.png|2nd Lt. Todd "Maniac" Marshall
Image:1x06-Grunt.png|2nd Lt. Hector "Grunt" Paz
Image:1x07-Grunt.png|2nd Lt. Hector "Grunt" Paz
Image:1x06-Pitchfork.png|2nd Lt. Ved "Pitchfork" Patel
Image:1x07-Payback.png|2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price
Image:1x06-Hyena.png|2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang
Image:1x07-Hyena.png|2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang
Image:1x06-TrafalgarBridge.png|Trafalgar Bridge Crewman
Image:1x07-Maya.png|Tech Specialist Maya McEaddens
Image:1x06-Thrakhath.png|Prince Thrakhath nar Kiranka
Image:1x07-CommunicationsTech.png|Communications Tech
Image:1x06-DestroyerCommander.png|Destroyer Commander
Image:1x07-Guthrig.png|Doctor Guthrig Andropolos
Image:1x06-Gharal.png|Lord Gharal nar Hhallas
Image:1x07-Bengal.png|Ship's Address
Image:1x06-KilrathiPilot.png|Kilrathi Pilot
Image:1x07-Thrakhath.png|Prince Thrakhath nar Kiranka
Image:1x06-AganRasSivarBridgeCrew.png|Agan Ras Sivar Bridge Crewman (center)
Image:1x07-Gharal.png|Lord Gharal nar Hhallas
Image:
Image:1x07-KilrathiCaptain.png|Destroyer Captain
Image:
Image:1x07-DralthiPilot.png|Dralthi Pilot
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 86: Line 102:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Cadets.png|2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price & Pilots (3)
Image:1x07-Bridge.png|Bridge Crew (4-5)
Image:1x06-Jazzman.png|2nd Lt. "Jazzman" (left)
Image:1x07-GroundCrewman.png|Ground Crewman
Image:1x06-TCBridgeCrew.png|Bridge Crew (5)
</gallery>
Image:1x06-TCBridgeCrew2.png|Bridge Crew (3)
 
Image:1x06-TCBridgeOfficer.png|Bridge Crewman (right)
==Fauna==
Image:1x06-GroundCrews.png|Ground Crew (2)
 
Image:1x06-SensorOperator.png|Sensor Operator (left)
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-MayaDamageControl.png|Tech Specialist Maya McEadance & Damage Control Crewman
Image:1x07-Pig.png|Space Pig
Image:1x06-RepairCrews.png|Repair Crew (3)
Image:1x06-TCMedical1.png|Medical Crewman & Trafalgar Survivors (3)
Image:1x06-TCMedical2.png|Medical Crew (4) & Trafalgar Survivor
Image:1x06-TrafalgarBridge.png|Trafalgar Bridge Crew (2)
Image:1x06-DestroyerBridgeCrew.png|Destroyer Bridge Crew (3)
Image:1x06-AdditionalDestroyerCrewman.png|Destroyer Crewman (standing)
Image:1x06-AganBridgeCrewman.png|Agan Ras Sivar Bridge Crewman (left)
</gallery>
</gallery>


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===Tiger's Claw===
===Tiger's Claw===


[[File:1x06-TigersClaw.png|frameless]]
[[File:1x07-TigersClaw.png|frameless]]


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-BriefingRoom.png|Briefing Room
Image:1x07-Hangar.png|Flight Deck
Image:1x06-OutsideBriefingRoom.png|Outside Briefing Room
Image:1x07-BridgeCrew.png|Bridge
Image:1x06-FlightDeck.png|Flight Deck
Image:1x07-BriefingRoom.png|Briefing Room
Image:1x06-TCBridge.png|Bridge
Image:1x07-Sickbay.png|Sick Bay
Image:1x06-Shuttle2.png|Admiral Bergstrom's Shuttle
Image:1x06-MavericksQuarters.png|Maverick's Quarters
Image:1x06-TolwynsOffice.png|Tolwyn's Office
Image:1x06-SickBay.png|Sick Bay
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Trafalgar===
===Agon'Ra'Sivar===


[[File:1x06-Trafalgar.png|frameless]]
[[File:1x07-AganRasSivar.png|frameless]]


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-TrafalgarBridge2.png|Bridge
Image:1x07-ThroneRoom.png|Throne Room
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Agan Ras Sivar===
===Initial System===


[[File:1x06-AganRasSivarHeader.png|frameless]]
[[File:1x07-InitialSystem.png|frameless]]


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-AganRasSivarBridge.png|Bridge
Image:1x07-PulsarNode.png|Pulsar Node
Image:1x06-ThroneRoom.png|Throne Room
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Destroyer===
===Seti Beta System===


[[File:1x06-DestroyerHeader.png|frameless]]
[[File:1x07-SetiBetaSystem.png|frameless]]


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-DestroyerBridge.png|Bridge
Image:1x07-SetiBetaNode.png|Pulsar Node
Image:1x07-JumpSpace.png|Jumpspace
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Seti Beta System===
===Icarus Colony===


[[File:1x06-SetiBetaSystem.png|frameless]]
[[File:1x07-Icarus.png|frameless]]


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-JumpNode.png|Jump Node
Image:1x07-IcarusColony.png|Icarus Colony
Image:1x06-MoonSensorShadow.png|Seti Beta I
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 157: Line 161:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-ScimitarCockpit.png|Scimitar
Image:1x07-ScimitarCockpit.png|Scimitar
Image:1x06-BroadswordCockpit.png|Broadsword
Image:1x07-BroadswordCockpit.png|Broadsword
Image:1x06-LifeboatCockpit.png|Lifeboat
Image:1x07-DralthiCockpit.png|Dralthi
Image:1x07-GrikathCockpit.png|Grikath
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 169: Line 174:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Scimitar.png|[[CF-105 Scimitar]]
Image:1x07-Scimitar.png|[[CF-105 Scimitar]]
Image:1x06-Broadsword.png|[[CF-131 Broadsword]]
Image:1x07-Broadsword.png|[[CF-131 Broadsword]]
Image:1x06-Shuttle.png|[[Shuttle]]
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 177: Line 181:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Byrd.png|[[Byrd]]
Image:1x07-Bengal.png|[[Bengal]]
Image:1x06-Achilles.png|[[Achilles]]
Image:1x06-Manassas.png|[[Light Cruiser]]
Image:1x06-Bengal.png|[[Bengal]]
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 188: Line 189:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Dralthi.png|[[Dralthi]]
Image:1x07-Sartha.png|[[Sartha]]
Image:1x06-Grikath.png|[[Grikath]]
Image:1x07-Dralthi.png|[[Dralthi]]
Image:1x06-KilrathiShuttle.png|[[Shuttle]]
Image:1x07-Grikath.png|[[Grikath]]
Image:1x07-JumpBuoy.png|[[Jump Buoy]]
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 196: Line 198:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Kamekh.png|[[Kamekh]]
Image:1x07-Fralthi.png|[[Fralthi]]
Image:1x06-Destroyer.png|[[Ralar]]
Image:1x07-Dreadnaught.png|[[KIS Agon'Ra'Sivar]]
Image:1x06-AganRasSivar.png|[[Agan Ras Sivar]]
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 206: Line 207:


<gallery mode="nolines">
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-BroadswordEjectionPod.png|Broadsword Ejection Pod
Image:1x07-BroadswordEjectionPod.png|Broadsword Ejection Pod
Image:1x06-TrafalgarLifeboat.png|Trafalgar Lifeboat
Image:1x07-DeckVehicle.png|Recovery Vehicle
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 213: Line 214:


==Animation Errors==
==Animation Errors==
* Prince Thrakhath tells Gharal that he "will send a squadron of Grikath after the Terrans" while Dralthi are used in the final act instead.


==Credits==
==Credits==
Line 250: Line 253:
|-
|-
!Starring
!Starring
|[[Mark Hamill]] (Maverick)
|[[Mark Hamill]] (Maverick, Communications Tech)
|-
|-
!
!
Line 268: Line 271:
|-
|-
!
!
|[[Pat Fraley]] (Grunt, Gharal)
|[[Pat Fraley]] (Grunt, Guthrig, Gharal, Ship's Address)
|-
|-
!Music by
!Music by
Line 411: Line 414:
===Act One===
===Act One===


====SCENE - Bridge====
====SCENE - Flight Deck====


'''Tolwyn''': You've covered standard Kilrathi jump node tactics in class. First, scout ships come through followed by a larger reconnaissance force. Only then do they commit their fleet's main body. We'll destroy the Kilrathi scouts as they come out of the node before they can report. We can't let them know they're up against one lone carrier. I asked for reinforcements from fleet command weeks ago. There's too much Kilrathi activity in this sector. They're up to something, I can smell it.
'''Ship's Address''': Attention all personnel, prepare to exit jump space. brace for node deceleration.


'''Maverick''': Sir, why was I ordered to remain onboard? I'd rather be out there with my squadron.  
'''Maverick''': We're coming out of jump space.


'''Tolwyn''': We don't always get what we want, cadet. You're here to learn what it means to command.
'''Tolwyn''': We have an unknown contact near the jump node. Scramble and identify.
 
'''Maverick''': Shouldn't a leader share the dangers of the people under his command, sir?
 
'''Tolwyn''': Any fool can be brave. The hard thing is to be right. War doesn't forgive mistakes, Mr. Blair. Scout ships, just as I expected. All fighters, power up and attack.


'''Maniac''': Alright! Let's hit it, boys and girls.


====SCENE - Jump Node====
====SCENE - Jump Node====


'''Maniac''': Thank you very much. Afterburners on my mark, now.
'''Maverick''': Maverick to Maniac, I've got contact. Magnifying. It's a jump buoy. Looks like Kilrathi.


'''Archer''': Looks like a corvette and two heavy fighters.
'''Maniac''': Kilrathi for sure. Any sign of life aboard?


'''Maniac''': I'm getting scanned. They've seen us and they're running for home. (laugh) Must have heard I was here.
'''Maverick''': No, negative sensor scan.


'''Archer''': Maniac, we're going for the corvette. Cover us.
'''Maniac''': Maniac to Tiger's Claw. We got a jump buoy here. Uploading sensor data now.  


'''Maniac''': Woo-hoo!


'''Archer''': Can't let them get to the jump node. Concentrate on the engine ports. I got his engines!
====SCENE - Bridge====


'''Hyena''': Target lock. Launching torpedoes. Hah! Torpedoes away!
'''Nelson''': Sir, that buoy might be useful. We could rig it track Kilrathi passage through this jump node.


'''Archer''': I got his engines. No! He wasn't going anywhere, I got his engines.
'''Tolwyn''': It's already useful to the Kilrathi. This is Tolwyn, destroy the buoy.


'''Hyena''': Aw man, did you see that shot? I should do this for a living.


'''Archer''': Can the chatter. Today it was the Kilrathi, next time it could be one of us.
====SCENE - Jump Node====


'''Hyena''': Man, what got your flight suit in a wad? We've got flashes coming from the jump node, more bogies coming through.
'''Maniac''': Yes sir. Well, you heard the man. Now Archer, you're wing, Maverick you fly backup.  


'''Archer''': Understood.


====SCENE - Bridge====
'''Maverick''': Alright and keep your shields up, folks. Kilrathi jump buoys are equipped with automated defenses.


'''Tolwyn''': Oh, the recon force shouldn't have jumped through so soon. It's not how the Kilrathi do it. Order all fighters to attack, immediately.  
'''Maniac''': Just sit back and watch the show, Maverick, maybe you'll learn something.


'''Nelson''': Sensor probe indicates seven ships coming through.  
'''Archer''': Probably too late for you to learn anything, Maniac.


'''Maniac''': Hey, can the chatter Archer, we got a job to do. Oh man, I'm targeted. It's got a lock. One down, launch decoys.


====Scene - SPACE====
'''Archer''': My bogey took the bait. I'm clear.


'''Archer''': Looks like heavies, I think one's a carrier. And escorts.
'''Maniac''': I've got two hot for my bod. Hang on, one more to go. But I can't lose it. It's almost on my tail. Aw, ejecting.


'''Maniac''': Hey Archer, you guys hit the carrier's laser turrets. I'll fly through the hangar deck and blast the guts out of it.  
'''Maverick''': Hang on Maniac, I've got you covered.


'''Archer''': When are you going to grow up?
'''Archer''': Continuing attack run. This time I got you.


'''Maniac''': I can do it. I ran it in the simulator in tactics class.
'''Maverick''': Nice work, Archer.


'''Archer''': This isn't a simulation. Understood. Maniac, I just got orders from Tolwyn, abort the attack.
'''Archer''': Thanks, I needed that one.


'''Maniac''': Aw, no, that catbox was mine.
'''Maverick''': Well now I know why you kept me in reserve, Maniac. You knew you'd need somebody to save your tail.


'''Archer''': You mean it's ours. They're Confederation.
'''Maniac''': (laughs) The day I need you to save me is the day I hang up my wings, Maverick.




====SCENE - Bridge====
====SCENE - Briefing Room====


'''Nelson''': I read carrier Trafalgar, light cruiser Manassas, three  Achilles-class destroyers and two  Byrd-class recon ships. Signal from the Trafalgar. Admiral Bergstrom requests permission to come aboard.
'''Tolwyn''': Well let's see who was paying attention in astrophysics class. We'll start with what you know. When you jump through the gravitational node of an ordinary star it takes you to a neighboring star. So, where does the supernode generated by a pulsar take you?


'''Tolwyn''': Rhea Bergstrom?
'''Archer''': Uh, that depends, sir. With the right velocity and approach angle you can jump past nearby stars to a pulsar with a corresponding frequency.


'''Nelson''': You know Admiral Bergstrom, sir?
'''Maverick''': Which could put you on the other side of the galaxy.


'''Tolwyn''': I used to. A long time ago.
'''Tolwyn''': And what's the only way to discover where the supernode leads?


'''Maniac''': You jump through, sir.


====SCENE - Flight Deck====
'''Tolwyn''': Exactly. Of course the Tiger's Claw is too important to risk on a node reconnaissance. But our Broadsword bombers are jump capable.


'''Tolwyn''': Welcome aboard the Tiger's Claw.
'''Maniac''': I'd like to volunteer, sir.


'''Bergstrom''': That's ten credits you owe me.
'''Payback''': So would I.


'''Tolwyn''': I'm afraid I don't understand, Admiral.
'''Maverick''': And me, sir.


'''Bergstrom''': Our bet, when we were cadets at the Academy. Who would make Admiral first.
'''Archer''': Me too.


'''Tolwyn''': yes. (laughs) We were young, so ambitious. (clears throat) Congratulations on your promotion.
'''Tolwyn''': What about you, cadet Paz?


'''Bergstrom''': Thank you, Commodore.
'''Grunt''': I learned one thing in the marines. Never volunteer.


'''Tolwyn''': Spoken like a veteran.


====SCENE - Briefing Room====
'''Grunt''': Well, thank you, sir.


'''Tolwyn''': I'm sorry Admiral, but you're wrong. Letting the Kilrathi through the node and using the Tiger's Claw to lure them into an ambush is...
'''Tolwyn''': I'm sending two Broadsword bombers into the pulsar node. Blair will command the flight, cadet Price will be his wingman.


'''Bergstrom''': A calculated risk. Our two carriers have a combined strike group of nearly 140 fighters. That ought to be enough.
'''Maniac''': Sir, I... sir, I can handle the Broadsword better than Maverick. I'd like to...


'''Tolwyn''': For what? We'd be retreating into an unsecured system. For all we know half the Kilrathi fleet could be out there waiting for us.
'''Tolwyn''': Are you questioning my orders, cadet?


'''Bergstrom''': (scoffs) The Kilrathi won't commit major units to this sector. That's why you were sent here, Tolwyn, to babysit a bunch of wet nosed cadets. There's nothing in this sector the Confederation can't afford to lose.
'''Maniac''': No, sir. I guess not.


'''Tolwyn''': The last time we met you still called me Geoffrey.  
'''Tolwyn''': Good. Now remember, this is a reconaissance mission. You are to avoid contact with the enemy, engaging them only if necessary. You're no good to me reduced to atoms.


'''Bergstrom''': You said it before, we were young then. You have my orders, now carry them out.
'''Maverick & Payback''': Yes sir.




====SCENE - Flight Deck====
====SCENE - Flight Deck====


'''Archer''': Nice job, Maniac. You almost bagged that carrier.
'''Maya''': These control the wing plasma guns and the quad lasers linked to your heads up computer. Now this is your real firing particle cannon. That sets your dumb fire and image recog missiles.  
 
'''Maniac''': Yeah, maybe next time I'll stay on the 'Claw and polish Tolwyn's brass.
 
'''Bergstrom''': Cadet Blair, I understand you lead the recon through the jump node that discovered the Kilrathi fleet.
 
'''Maverick''': Yes, Admiral. Cadet Price flew wing.
 
'''Bergstrom''': We'll talk in my shuttle.
 


====SCENE - Bergstrom's Shuttle====
'''Maverick''': (laughs) Uh, I've checked out in Broadswords before.


'''Bergstrom''': What's your opinion of Commodore Tolwyn?
'''Maya''': Sorry, but I hear you're doing the long jump. I, uh, I equipped the Broadswords with extra life support packs.


'''Maverick''': Cadets aren't supposed to have opinions of commodores.
'''Maverick''': Oh, well, thanks Maya.  


'''Bergstrom''': Very proper, but let me tell you mine. Geoffrey Tolwyn is always competent and often brilliant. But fleet command doesn't rust him. Our forces have to act as a team but Tolwyn is fighting his own war.
'''Maya''': I work hard to keep these things flying, you bring them back, okay.


'''Maverick''': Why are you telling me this, Admiral?
'''Maverick''': Downloading jump coordinates.


'''Bergstrom''': I don't trust him, either. I want you to report to me if Tolwyn fails to carry about my orders.
'''Maniac''': (huffs) I can't believe Maverick is going on this mission, it should've been me.


'''Maverick''': Admiral. you're asking me to spy on my commanding officer?
'''Archer''': I'm sure the old man had his reasons.


'''Bergstrom''': I'm not asking you to spy on him, I'm ordering you to.
'''Maniac''': Yeah, like the Blair family connections. It takes more than a silver spoon in your m outh to put silver wings on your chest.


===Act Two===


====SCENE - Bridge====
====SCENE - Bridge====


'''Bergstrom''': I've ordered Tolwyn to lure the Kilrathi fleet into an ambush at Seti Beta I, this system's first planet. If he fails to execute that order you are to inform me immediately.
'''Guthrig''': Commodore, some of the cadets have been complaining.


'''Maverick''': What will you do then?
'''Tolwyn''': Cadets always complain, doctor, its their secondary mission.


'''Bergstrom''': I shall relieve Commodore Tolwyn of his command.
'''Guthrig''': They seem to think you're showing undue favoriatism towards Maverick.  


'''Tolwyn''': They do, eh? (laughs) Well, tell them I'm not doing Maverick any favors sending him on this mission.


====SCENE - Briefing Room====
'''Communications Tech''': Sir, jump data has been transferred to the Broadswords computers.


'''Tolwyn''': We're on our own again, which means we don't have to worry about the rest of the navy getting in our way. Your orders are to seek and destroy the Kilrathi recon ships as they come through the node.
'''Tolwyn''': Launch the ships.


'''Maverick''': Sir, Admiral Bergstrom... (sighs)
====SCENE - Jump Node====


'''Tolwyn''': I'm putting you in command of the fighters at the node. Any questions?
'''Maverick''': Jump coordinates locked into guidance system.


'''Maverick''': No, sir.
'''Payback''': What do you think we'll find on the other side?


'''Maverick''': Well it could be nothing. Or we could be flying into the whole Kilrathi fleet.


====SCENE - Jump Node====
===Act Two===


'''Maniac''': Glad you could make the party this time, Maverick. Uhm, yo. (laughs) Ah, Maverick. Hey, you reading me?
====SCENE - Seti Beta System====


'''Maverick''': Maverick to Tiger's Claw, urgent message for Commodore Tolwyn.
'''Maverick''': Begin node deceleration.


'''Tolwyn''': You were ordered to power down.
'''Payback''': Whew! Some ride, huh?


'''Maverick''': I've also been ordered to report to Admiral Bergstrom if you fail to carry out her orders.
'''Maverick''': Multiple contacts, all around us. At least two carriers. No, no, three. And something bigger.


'''Tolwyn''': Why, you disloyal little...
'''Payback''': We've been spotted. Bandits at 10:00, two of 'em.


'''Maverick''': She gave me a direct order. I had no choice. She intends to remove you from command.
'''Maverick''': Keep them busy, I'll plot a course back to the jump node.


'''Tolwyn''': Patch me through to the fighters. You will attack the Kilrathi as they emerge from the jump node. Fall back to the Tiger's Claw, we'll draw the Kilrathi after us, into Admiral Bergstrom's ambush. And if she's wrong...
'''Payback''': My pleasure. Say hello to your ancestors, furballs.


'''Maverick''': I'm getting a data link from the sensor probe  near the jump node. Two destroyers, two corvettes and four, no wait a minute five fighters.
'''Maverick''': Got it. Payback, I've got the jump coordinates. Break off pursuit, now.


'''Payback''': There's no way I'm turning back now, Maverick, I've waited a long time for this.


====SCENE - Destroyer Bridge====
'''Maverick''': What? We're under orders, Payback. Do not engage, I repeat, do not engage.


'''Gharal''': Commander, we have detected multiple energy surges. They appear to be Confederation fighters powering up.
'''Payback''': Try and stop me. Just jump through to the 'Claw, I 'll catch up.


'''Commnader''': All fighters intercept the Terrans. Destroyers and corvettes assume defensive formation.
'''Maverick''': I'm not leaving without you.


'''Payback''': Torpedoes away. YES! That's the first payback.


====SCENE - Jump Node====
'''Gharal''': This is Gharal. Our brothers shall be avenged.


'''Maniac''': That lead Grikath's mine.
'''Payback''': Ugh, I'm not that easy, Kilrathi!


'''Maverick''': Maniac, stay on my wing. We've got to clear a path for the Broadswords.
'''Gharal''': You should have stayed on your home planet, Terran.


'''Maniac''': Oh, no problem, one express lane coming up.
'''Payback''': (groans) My shields are down.


'''Maverick''': Maniac. Maniac, bogey on your tail. Six o'clock.
'''Payback''': Go ahead, furball, take your best shot. At least I got your destroyer.


'''Maniac''': Oh, you're good. But I'm the best. Woo-hoo, yeah!
'''Gharal''': Wait, do not fire. We will take the Terran prisoner. Prepare magnetic grappler.  


'''Archer''': Okay, Pitchfork, the fighters are busy. Let them have it.
'''Maverick''': Nobody messes with my wingman.


'''Pitchfork''': I've got a target lock. Torpedoes away!
'''Gharal''': (groans) Engines! Oh, can't restart. Ah, those who live among the stars, die among them.


'''Hyena''': No, they got Pitchfork!
'''Maverick''': You in one piece, Payback?


'''Archer''': There's nothing you can do, get out of there.
'''Payback''': Affirmative, thanks for the rescue.


'''Hyena''': We're getting out of here if I've got to get out and push.
'''Maverick''': We'll talk about it later, right now we've got to scramble. Hang on.


'''Gharal''': We Kilrathi say mercy is a weakness. Perhaps we are right, Terran.


====SCENE - Destroyer Bridge====
'''Maverick''': More Kilrathi between us and the node.


'''Gharal''': Gharal to all ships. I am assuming command. Target that bomber.
'''Payback''': Just ditch my pod, you might be able to fight your way through.


'''Pilot''': Lord Gharal, the Terran fighters are withdrawing.
'''Maverick''': What? No way, we came together we're going back together. Arming torpedoes for timed flight detonation. Hang on, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Torpedoes away!


'''Gharal''': Why withdraw when they have the advantage? Do not pursue. Follow them, carefully. They could be trying to set a trap.
'''Payback''': (grunts) Ow!


'''Maverick''': Node entry... now!


====SCENE - Briefing Room====
'''Thrakhath''': This is Prince Thrakhath. I will send a squadron of Grikath after the Terrans. Report to me on the Agon'Ra'Sivar.


'''Tolwyn''': You all did good work today. It's unfortunate that during the action, Cadet Patel was lost. I'm sure you're all looking forward to an chance to avenge him.


'''Pitchfork''': I'll make them pay, no joke.
====SCENE - Jumpspace====


'''Tolwyn''': You'll get that chance, soon. When the Kilrathi main fleet enters the system, they will no doubt take the bait and pursue the Tiger's Claw. We will lead them to the planet Seti Beta I where Admiral Bergstrom's task force will ambush and destroy the Kilrathi. Oh, one last thing: Cadet Blair is confined to quarters until further notice.
'''Payback''': You're ticked off, I can tell. Look, I'm sorry. I wouldn't have blamed you for leaving me back there.


'''Maverick''': Sir, I didn't...
'''Maverick''': What do you think you were doing back there? You know Tolwyn ordered us to avoid a fight. You cost us a Broadsword, you endangered the mission, sorry doesn't cut it. YUou know I would have expected something like that from a, from a glory seeking hot dog like Maniac but not you.


'''Tolwyn''': Dismissed.
'''Payback''': Are... are you going to tell Tolwyn that I disobeyed orders?


'''Hyena''': What landed you in the doghouse?
'''Maverick''': (sighs) I have to.


'''Archer''': The old man can't blame you for what happened to Ved. You were only following orders.
'''Payback''': They'll wash me out of the Academy.


'''Maverick''': Yeah, just following orders.  
'''Maverick''': I know.




====SCENE - Throne Room====
====SCENE - Throne Room====


'''Thrakhath''': Enter and report. What is the status of the Terran carrier?
'''Destroyer Captain''': Lord Prince, we have driven off the enemy and destroyed one of his ships, your highness.


'''Gharal''': It is retreating, your highness. We are tracking it with long range fighters. When our own carriers arrive we shall destroy the Terrans.  
'''Thrakhath''': Hmm. Some say I promoted you too fast, Gharal. If I have it is because I see in you the courage and the ability that I knew in your father. He was a great warrior, the glo ry of the Hhallas clan. You must hate the Terrans for taking his life.


'''Thrakhath''': The carriers will not be coming through the jump node, Gharal. I have brought only my flagship and her escorts.  
'''Gharal''': My father was a soldier.


'''Gharal''': Highness, the Terrans might be trying to lure us into a trap. Intelligence suspects there might be a larger Terran force in the system.
'''Thrakhath''': He was my friend, almost a second son to my father, the Emperor. I have decided to make you the captain of the destroyer Ras Nik'hra.


'''Thrakhath''': There will be a trap, Commander, but it will not be the Terrans who spring it. I, too, have a fleet hidden in this system. We will crush all the Terrans between us.
'''Destroyer Captain''': But Prince Thrakhath, I am the captain of the Ras Nik'hra.


===Act Three===
'''Thrakhath''': Two destroyers guarded the jump node. One captain died with his ship, that is honorable. But to fail and still live, that is not honorable. Go and redeem your honor.


====SCENE - Maverick's Quarters====
'''Destroyer Captain''': (sighs) As you command, my lord.


'''Maverick''': We're approaching Seti Beta I, the planet where Admiral Bergstrom is waiting to ambush the Kilrathi. The Kilrathi fighters are tracking us. Huh. More Kilrathi ships came through the node, but looks like only part of their fleet. You know, dad, it seems Admiral Bergstrom was right... and Commodore Tolwyn, he was wrong.


====SCENE - Jumpspace====


====SCENE - Tolwyn's Office====
'''Payback''': What's the damage?


'''Tolwyn''': (sighs) I want all the cadet pilots in the briefing room in one hour. And that includes Cadet Blair.
'''Maverick''': (sighs) That last laser hit took out our life support. I've patched us into the emergency backup in your pod but that's all we've got.


'''Payback''': Will it... will it last till we're through the node?


====SCENE - Briefing Room====
'''Maverick''': It'll be cutting it close.


'''Tolwyn''': Admiral Bergstrom's task force is concealed in the sensor shadow of the planet's moon. The Tiger's Claw will deploy its fighters as we slingshot around the planet. You'll join with Admiral Bergstrom's force to attack and destroy the Kilrathi. Tolwyn.
'''Payback''': How close?


'''Nelson''': Commodore. Message from Admiral Bergstrom. They're under attack.
'''Maverick''': Well let me put it this way. If the Claw's not there to pick us up when we come out of the node well, we won't have long to worry about it.


'''Tolwyn''': Pipe it into the briefing room.
===Act Three===


'''Bergstrom''': We're under heavy attack. At least two carrier air wings. Destroyer Ajax lost.
====SCENE - Jumpspace====


'''Maniac''': Man, they couldn't of  gotten past us.
'''Payback''': How, how long?


'''Maverick''': It's another fleet. The Kilrathi have another fleet in this system!
'''Maverick''': Three hours. One to go. (coughs) Oh boy, the air's getting bad.


'''Bergstrom''': Tiger's Claw. Need help. can't last much...
'''Payback''': I thought if I... if I could get away from my family, I'd be free. (laughs) I ran away when I was a kid, took a job with a mining company. Learned to fly ore shuttles. Oh it's so hard to be alone. Family is so much... if I'd known. They, they were on Icarus colony. On my way back, for the first time in years when the Kilrathi attacked. All gone. I don't ever want to be alone again. I saw the Kilrathi destroyer and thought maybe it's the one that dropped the bomb on Icarus. (coughs)


'''Nelson''': Message terminated at the source.
'''Maverick''': (coughs) I joined the Academy because of my family. A Blair, worthy of the family name. First to volunteer, first to serve. (laughs) There was a Blair, a general, in the civil war.


'''Tolwyn''': Understood. Prepare all fighters for launch. All hands to battle stations. Proceed immediately to the Trafalgar and render whatever  assistance you can. Cadet Blair will be in command.
'''Payback''': Which civil war?


'''Maverick''': Aye aye, sir.
'''Maverick''': (laughs) All of 'em.


'''Payback''': We made it!


====SCENE - Trafalgar Bridge====
'''Maverick''': (coughs) Checking sensors. The Claw! They're not out there.


'''Crewman''': Damage report, Admiral. Heavy casualties. Fire spreading to all decks. Weapons gone. Main engines going critical. Admiral, what are your orders?
'''Payback''': I knew we'd never make it. No luck.


'''Bergstrom''': Abandon ship.
'''Maverick''': Payback! Payback? (groans)




====SCENE - Seti Beta I====
====SCENE - Bridge====


'''Maverick''': Multiple contacts. Looks like Confederation fighters with lots of Kilrathi in pursuit.
'''Nelson''': We're getting no life support telemetry from the Broadsword. We could try hailing them.


'''Archer''': Maverick, can you read the Trafalgar? Or any of our ships?
'''Tolwyn''': You have your orders, maintain communication silence.


'''Maverick''': Negative, it's just those fighters. Save those lifepods.
'''Nelson''': Yes, sir.


'''Hyena''': For you, Pitchfork, for you. (screams)
'''Guthrig''': There might still be someone alive aboard that ship.  


'''Grunt''': We need you man, we need you.  
'''Tolwyn''': I'm aware of that, doctor, but only one ship made it back. That means there are Kilrathi on the other side of the node. They'll be sending fighters in pursuit. If we power up, the Kilrathi will detect us when they come through. We'll lose the element of surprise.


'''Maverick''': Run you furball, run!
'''Guthrig''': Well what about the pilots out there, Payback or Maverick?


'''Archer''': They'll be back, and with lots of friends.
'''Tolwyn''': A pilot is expendable. We all are. That's what it means to be a soldier.


'''Maverick''': Trafalgar escape pod, this is Maverick from the Tiger's Claw. I have you in tow. Any more survivors?


'''Bergstrom''': They're all gone. All of them.
====SCENE - Jump Node====
 
'''Maverick''': Admiral Bergstrom?
 
'''Bergstrom''': They should have left me with my ship. They should have left me.
 
'''Maverick''': Maverick to all fighters, save as many life pods as you can. Let's get back to the Tiger's Claw.
 
 
====SCENE - Sick Bay====


'''Bergstrom''': They're going to find us, aren't they? Oh God, you were right, I should have listened. Now we're finished. They'll catch us and finish us off.
'''Maniac''': That's Maverick out there. I know it's him. Archer, this is Maniac, I'm powering up and going for that Broadsword. Maverick's alive.


'''Tolwyn''': No, we're going to jump through the node at full speed without slowing to correct our approach. They won't be able to stop us.
'''Archer''': Get off this commlink. You know your orders, hold this position. I don't like it any better than you do.


'''Bergstrom''': Where will it take us, Geoffrey?
'''Maniac''': I wanted to beat you, Maverick, but not like this.


'''Tolwyn''': Does it matter? We're running for our lives now.
'''Archer''': There they are, just like Tolwyn said.




====SCENE - Bridge====
====SCENE - Bridge====


'''Nelson''': All fighters aboard, sir. The sensors report the Kilrathi fleet at Seti Beta I is moving towards our position at high speed.
'''Tolwyn''': Open a commlink. Power up and engage the enemy.


'''Tolwyn''': Well we're not going to be here. All ahead full, make for the jump node.


====SCENE - Jump Node====


====SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge====
'''Dralthi Pilot''': Commencing attack run.


'''Crewman''': Sensors report Terran carrier entering weapons range.
'''Archer''': They're heading for the jump node.


'''Thrakhath''': He's trying to run the blockade. Position us over the jump node. Order all ships to open fire.
'''Hyena''': We're on it!


'''Maniac''': This one's mine! Woo-hoo!


====SCENE - Bridge====
'''Archer''': One of them's still making a run on the Broadsword.


'''Tolwyn''': Divert power to the forward shields. Return fire.  
'''Hyena''': I'm out of position, I can't stop him.


'''Maverick''': Sir, should we launch fighters to clear the way?
'''Arnold Blair''': Christopher? Wake up, Christopher. It's time to get up.


'''Tolwyn''': No, we won't have time to get them back aboard and I won't leave them behind.
'''Maverick''': Dad?


'''Nelson''': Shields failing. We'll have to divert power from the engines to keep them up.  
'''Arnold Blair''': If you die, forty generations of Blairs die with you.


'''Tolwyn''': Negative, head straight for that dreadnought. We'll see how eager Prince Thrakhath is to meet his ancestors.
'''Maverick''': Oh, dad. I'm too tired. I want to sleep.


'''Arnold Blair''': Now son, you're a Blair, you've got no right to let go of a life it took so many to create. Just take my hand, Christopher...


====SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge====
'''Maverick''': (sighs) (groans)


'''Crewman''': The Terrans are on a collision course, your highness.
'''Maniac''': That's from the Broadsword. Maverick's alive back there.


'''Thrakhath''': This Terran fights like a Kilrathi
'''Archer''': Go ahead, Maniac, we've got things under control.


'''Maniac''': I knew it was you, Maverick. That was some shot. Let's go home.


====SCENE - Destroyer Bridge====


'''Gharl''': They are brave, these Terrans.
====SCENE - Sick Bay====


'''Maverick''': Huh, lack of oxygen must have gotten to me. First I imagined I saw my dad. Then I thought Maniac (laughs) rescued me.


====SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge====
'''Maniac''': (laughs) Yeah, fat chance. Next you'll be dreaming you're a better pilot than me.


'''Crewman''': Collision imminent. Your orders, highness?
'''Maverick''': (laughs)


'''Thrakhath''': Argh! Hard to port.
'''Tolwyn''': Don't you have duty, cadet?


'''Maniac''': Oh, uh, yes sir.


====SCENE - Flight Deck====
'''Tolwyn''': Then I suggest you get to it.


'''Tolwyn''': Sometimes I wish I were just a pilot again, and the only life I was responsible for was my own.
'''Tolwyn''': I'll expect a full report when you're up and about, cadet. But tell me, what happened to your Broadsword? You were ordered to avoid contact with the enemy.


'''Maverick''': And your wingman's, sir.
'''Payback''': Sir, I, uh.


'''Tolwyn''': You understand, Blair, that if Admiral Bergstrom had stuck with my plan and not tried to lure the Kilrathi into a trap that second fleet could never have ambushed us.
'''Maverick''': Sir, the Kilrathi were on us as soon as we came out of the node. Cadet Price was hit as we fought our way back.


'''Maverick''': With all due respect, sir, no one knew the second Kilrathi fleet was in that system.
'''Tolwyn''': Disobeying orders or lying to a commanding officer can get you expelled from the academy. We are all expendable. We each have to answer for our own mistakes. Is that really what happened? You were intercepted by the Kilrathi?


'''Tolwyn''': Someday, if you live long enough, you'll learn that when you give an order you never know what the outcome will be. How many lives will be lost. Every decision you make is a link in a chain and all you can do is hope you've made the right decision. But either way, you carry the weight of it, alone.
'''Maverick''': I'm a Blair, sir. The Blairs never lie.


'''Maverick''': Uh, sir. At the jump node, how did you know the Kilrathi would get out of the way?
{{-}}
{{tvepisodes/doc}}


'''Tolwyn''': I didn't.
[[category:Wing Commander Academy Episodes]]

Latest revision as of 22:54, 6 March 2024

Expendable is the seventh episode of Wing Commander Academy aired and the sixth produced.


Expendable
1x07-TitleCard.png
Episode Number 1x07
Production Code 74706
Story Mark Edens
Writer(s) Ted Pederson & Francis Moss
Air Date November 9, 1996
Run Time 20m53s
Animation Studio Koko
Theme Version 1
Previous Chain of Command
Next Recreation



Summary

Act One

Terran Confederation Empire of Kilrah
Strength
3 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters 1 Jump Buoy
Losses
1 Jump Buoy destroyed

Act Two

Terran Confederation Empire of Kilrah
Strength
2 CF-131 Broadsword bombers 5 Sartha light fighters
3 Grikath heavy fighters
2 Fralthi destroyers
3 carriers
1 dreadnaught
Losses
1 Broadsword destroyed 1 Sartha, 2 Grikath and 1 Fralthi destroyed

Act Three

Terran Confederation Empire of Kilrah
Strength
15 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters
1 CF-131 Broadsword bomber
1 Bengal class strike carrier 		7 Dralthi medium fighters
Losses
7 Dralthi destroyed

Characters

Speaking

  • Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn

    Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn

  • Commander Nelson

    Commander Nelson

  • Major Arnold Blair

    Major Arnold Blair

  • 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. Hector "Grunt" Paz

    2nd Lt. Hector "Grunt" Paz

  • 2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price

    2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price

  • 2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang

    2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang

  • Tech Specialist Maya McEaddens

    Tech Specialist Maya McEaddens

  • Communications Tech

    Communications Tech

  • Doctor Guthrig Andropolos

    Doctor Guthrig Andropolos

  • Ship's Address

    Ship's Address

  • Prince Thrakhath nar Kiranka

    Prince Thrakhath nar Kiranka

  • Lord Gharal nar Hhallas

    Lord Gharal nar Hhallas

  • Destroyer Captain

    Destroyer Captain

  • Dralthi Pilot

    Dralthi Pilot

Nonspeaking

  • Bridge Crew (4-5)

    Bridge Crew (4-5)

  • Ground Crewman

    Ground Crewman

Fauna

  • Space Pig

    Space Pig

Locations

Tiger's Claw

1x07-TigersClaw.png

  • Flight Deck

    Flight Deck

  • Bridge

    Bridge

  • Briefing Room

    Briefing Room

  • Sick Bay

    Sick Bay

Agon'Ra'Sivar

1x07-AganRasSivar.png

  • Throne Room

    Throne Room

Initial System

1x07-InitialSystem.png

  • Pulsar Node

    Pulsar Node

Seti Beta System

1x07-SetiBetaSystem.png

  • Pulsar Node

    Pulsar Node

  • Jumpspace

    Jumpspace

Icarus Colony

1x07-Icarus.png

  • Icarus Colony

    Icarus Colony

Cockpits

  • Scimitar

    Scimitar

  • Broadsword

    Broadsword

  • Dralthi

    Dralthi

  • Grikath

    Grikath

Ships

Terran Confederation

Fighters

Capital Ships

Empire of Kilrah

Fighters

Capital Ships

Vehicles

Terran Confederation

  • Broadsword Ejection Pod

    Broadsword Ejection Pod

  • Recovery Vehicle

    Recovery Vehicle

Trivia

Animation Errors

  • Prince Thrakhath tells Gharal that he "will send a squadron of Grikath after the Terrans" while Dralthi are used in the final act instead.

Credits

Role Name
Story by Mark Edens
Written by Ted Pederson
Francis Moss
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)
Tom Wilson (Maniac)
Malcolm McDowell (Tolwyn)
Dana Delany (Archer)
Also Starring Lauri Hendler (Payback, Maya)
Kevin Schoen (Thrakhath, Hyena)
Pat Fraley (Grunt, Guthrig, Gharal, Ship's Address)
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 Dan Nosella
J.C. Ponce
Dave Williams
Storyboard Cleanup Judy Nielson
Timing Directors Mike Milo
Tim Walker
Zeon Davush
Bill Reed
Brian Ray
Donna Mouliot
John Cataldi
Carole Beers
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 Harry Andronis
Stuart Calderon
Overseas Animation Studio Koko Entertainment Co., Ltd.
Produced in Association with USA Network

Transcript

Act One

SCENE - Flight Deck

Ship's Address: Attention all personnel, prepare to exit jump space. brace for node deceleration.

Maverick: We're coming out of jump space.

Tolwyn: We have an unknown contact near the jump node. Scramble and identify.

Maniac: Alright! Let's hit it, boys and girls.

SCENE - Jump Node

Maverick: Maverick to Maniac, I've got contact. Magnifying. It's a jump buoy. Looks like Kilrathi.

Maniac: Kilrathi for sure. Any sign of life aboard?

Maverick: No, negative sensor scan.

Maniac: Maniac to Tiger's Claw. We got a jump buoy here. Uploading sensor data now.


SCENE - Bridge

Nelson: Sir, that buoy might be useful. We could rig it track Kilrathi passage through this jump node.

Tolwyn: It's already useful to the Kilrathi. This is Tolwyn, destroy the buoy.


SCENE - Jump Node

Maniac: Yes sir. Well, you heard the man. Now Archer, you're wing, Maverick you fly backup.

Archer: Understood.

Maverick: Alright and keep your shields up, folks. Kilrathi jump buoys are equipped with automated defenses.

Maniac: Just sit back and watch the show, Maverick, maybe you'll learn something.

Archer: Probably too late for you to learn anything, Maniac.

Maniac: Hey, can the chatter Archer, we got a job to do. Oh man, I'm targeted. It's got a lock. One down, launch decoys.

Archer: My bogey took the bait. I'm clear.

Maniac: I've got two hot for my bod. Hang on, one more to go. But I can't lose it. It's almost on my tail. Aw, ejecting.

Maverick: Hang on Maniac, I've got you covered.

Archer: Continuing attack run. This time I got you.

Maverick: Nice work, Archer.

Archer: Thanks, I needed that one.

Maverick: Well now I know why you kept me in reserve, Maniac. You knew you'd need somebody to save your tail.

Maniac: (laughs) The day I need you to save me is the day I hang up my wings, Maverick.


SCENE - Briefing Room

Tolwyn: Well let's see who was paying attention in astrophysics class. We'll start with what you know. When you jump through the gravitational node of an ordinary star it takes you to a neighboring star. So, where does the supernode generated by a pulsar take you?

Archer: Uh, that depends, sir. With the right velocity and approach angle you can jump past nearby stars to a pulsar with a corresponding frequency.

Maverick: Which could put you on the other side of the galaxy.

Tolwyn: And what's the only way to discover where the supernode leads?

Maniac: You jump through, sir.

Tolwyn: Exactly. Of course the Tiger's Claw is too important to risk on a node reconnaissance. But our Broadsword bombers are jump capable.

Maniac: I'd like to volunteer, sir.

Payback: So would I.

Maverick: And me, sir.

Archer: Me too.

Tolwyn: What about you, cadet Paz?

Grunt: I learned one thing in the marines. Never volunteer.

Tolwyn: Spoken like a veteran.

Grunt: Well, thank you, sir.

Tolwyn: I'm sending two Broadsword bombers into the pulsar node. Blair will command the flight, cadet Price will be his wingman.

Maniac: Sir, I... sir, I can handle the Broadsword better than Maverick. I'd like to...

Tolwyn: Are you questioning my orders, cadet?

Maniac: No, sir. I guess not.

Tolwyn: Good. Now remember, this is a reconaissance mission. You are to avoid contact with the enemy, engaging them only if necessary. You're no good to me reduced to atoms.

Maverick & Payback: Yes sir.


SCENE - Flight Deck

Maya: These control the wing plasma guns and the quad lasers linked to your heads up computer. Now this is your real firing particle cannon. That sets your dumb fire and image recog missiles.

Maverick: (laughs) Uh, I've checked out in Broadswords before.

Maya: Sorry, but I hear you're doing the long jump. I, uh, I equipped the Broadswords with extra life support packs.

Maverick: Oh, well, thanks Maya.

Maya: I work hard to keep these things flying, you bring them back, okay.

Maverick: Downloading jump coordinates.

Maniac: (huffs) I can't believe Maverick is going on this mission, it should've been me.

Archer: I'm sure the old man had his reasons.

Maniac: Yeah, like the Blair family connections. It takes more than a silver spoon in your m outh to put silver wings on your chest.


SCENE - Bridge

Guthrig: Commodore, some of the cadets have been complaining.

Tolwyn: Cadets always complain, doctor, its their secondary mission.

Guthrig: They seem to think you're showing undue favoriatism towards Maverick.

Tolwyn: They do, eh? (laughs) Well, tell them I'm not doing Maverick any favors sending him on this mission.

Communications Tech: Sir, jump data has been transferred to the Broadswords computers.

Tolwyn: Launch the ships.

SCENE - Jump Node

Maverick: Jump coordinates locked into guidance system.

Payback: What do you think we'll find on the other side?

Maverick: Well it could be nothing. Or we could be flying into the whole Kilrathi fleet.

Act Two

SCENE - Seti Beta System

Maverick: Begin node deceleration.

Payback: Whew! Some ride, huh?

Maverick: Multiple contacts, all around us. At least two carriers. No, no, three. And something bigger.

Payback: We've been spotted. Bandits at 10:00, two of 'em.

Maverick: Keep them busy, I'll plot a course back to the jump node.

Payback: My pleasure. Say hello to your ancestors, furballs.

Maverick: Got it. Payback, I've got the jump coordinates. Break off pursuit, now.

Payback: There's no way I'm turning back now, Maverick, I've waited a long time for this.

Maverick: What? We're under orders, Payback. Do not engage, I repeat, do not engage.

Payback: Try and stop me. Just jump through to the 'Claw, I 'll catch up.

Maverick: I'm not leaving without you.

Payback: Torpedoes away. YES! That's the first payback.

Gharal: This is Gharal. Our brothers shall be avenged.

Payback: Ugh, I'm not that easy, Kilrathi!

Gharal: You should have stayed on your home planet, Terran.

Payback: (groans) My shields are down.

Payback: Go ahead, furball, take your best shot. At least I got your destroyer.

Gharal: Wait, do not fire. We will take the Terran prisoner. Prepare magnetic grappler.

Maverick: Nobody messes with my wingman.

Gharal: (groans) Engines! Oh, can't restart. Ah, those who live among the stars, die among them.

Maverick: You in one piece, Payback?

Payback: Affirmative, thanks for the rescue.

Maverick: We'll talk about it later, right now we've got to scramble. Hang on.

Gharal: We Kilrathi say mercy is a weakness. Perhaps we are right, Terran.

Maverick: More Kilrathi between us and the node.

Payback: Just ditch my pod, you might be able to fight your way through.

Maverick: What? No way, we came together we're going back together. Arming torpedoes for timed flight detonation. Hang on, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Torpedoes away!

Payback: (grunts) Ow!

Maverick: Node entry... now!

Thrakhath: This is Prince Thrakhath. I will send a squadron of Grikath after the Terrans. Report to me on the Agon'Ra'Sivar.


SCENE - Jumpspace

Payback: You're ticked off, I can tell. Look, I'm sorry. I wouldn't have blamed you for leaving me back there.

Maverick: What do you think you were doing back there? You know Tolwyn ordered us to avoid a fight. You cost us a Broadsword, you endangered the mission, sorry doesn't cut it. YUou know I would have expected something like that from a, from a glory seeking hot dog like Maniac but not you.

Payback: Are... are you going to tell Tolwyn that I disobeyed orders?

Maverick: (sighs) I have to.

Payback: They'll wash me out of the Academy.

Maverick: I know.


SCENE - Throne Room

Destroyer Captain: Lord Prince, we have driven off the enemy and destroyed one of his ships, your highness.

Thrakhath: Hmm. Some say I promoted you too fast, Gharal. If I have it is because I see in you the courage and the ability that I knew in your father. He was a great warrior, the glo ry of the Hhallas clan. You must hate the Terrans for taking his life.

Gharal: My father was a soldier.

Thrakhath: He was my friend, almost a second son to my father, the Emperor. I have decided to make you the captain of the destroyer Ras Nik'hra.

Destroyer Captain: But Prince Thrakhath, I am the captain of the Ras Nik'hra.

Thrakhath: Two destroyers guarded the jump node. One captain died with his ship, that is honorable. But to fail and still live, that is not honorable. Go and redeem your honor.

Destroyer Captain: (sighs) As you command, my lord.


SCENE - Jumpspace

Payback: What's the damage?

Maverick: (sighs) That last laser hit took out our life support. I've patched us into the emergency backup in your pod but that's all we've got.

Payback: Will it... will it last till we're through the node?

Maverick: It'll be cutting it close.

Payback: How close?

Maverick: Well let me put it this way. If the Claw's not there to pick us up when we come out of the node well, we won't have long to worry about it.

Act Three

SCENE - Jumpspace

Payback: How, how long?

Maverick: Three hours. One to go. (coughs) Oh boy, the air's getting bad.

Payback: I thought if I... if I could get away from my family, I'd be free. (laughs) I ran away when I was a kid, took a job with a mining company. Learned to fly ore shuttles. Oh it's so hard to be alone. Family is so much... if I'd known. They, they were on Icarus colony. On my way back, for the first time in years when the Kilrathi attacked. All gone. I don't ever want to be alone again. I saw the Kilrathi destroyer and thought maybe it's the one that dropped the bomb on Icarus. (coughs)

Maverick: (coughs) I joined the Academy because of my family. A Blair, worthy of the family name. First to volunteer, first to serve. (laughs) There was a Blair, a general, in the civil war.

Payback: Which civil war?

Maverick: (laughs) All of 'em.

Payback: We made it!

Maverick: (coughs) Checking sensors. The Claw! They're not out there.

Payback: I knew we'd never make it. No luck.

Maverick: Payback! Payback? (groans)


SCENE - Bridge

Nelson: We're getting no life support telemetry from the Broadsword. We could try hailing them.

Tolwyn: You have your orders, maintain communication silence.

Nelson: Yes, sir.

Guthrig: There might still be someone alive aboard that ship.

Tolwyn: I'm aware of that, doctor, but only one ship made it back. That means there are Kilrathi on the other side of the node. They'll be sending fighters in pursuit. If we power up, the Kilrathi will detect us when they come through. We'll lose the element of surprise.

Guthrig: Well what about the pilots out there, Payback or Maverick?

Tolwyn: A pilot is expendable. We all are. That's what it means to be a soldier.


SCENE - Jump Node

Maniac: That's Maverick out there. I know it's him. Archer, this is Maniac, I'm powering up and going for that Broadsword. Maverick's alive.

Archer: Get off this commlink. You know your orders, hold this position. I don't like it any better than you do.

Maniac: I wanted to beat you, Maverick, but not like this.

Archer: There they are, just like Tolwyn said.


SCENE - Bridge

Tolwyn: Open a commlink. Power up and engage the enemy.


SCENE - Jump Node

Dralthi Pilot: Commencing attack run.

Archer: They're heading for the jump node.

Hyena: We're on it!

Maniac: This one's mine! Woo-hoo!

Archer: One of them's still making a run on the Broadsword.

Hyena: I'm out of position, I can't stop him.

Arnold Blair: Christopher? Wake up, Christopher. It's time to get up.

Maverick: Dad?

Arnold Blair: If you die, forty generations of Blairs die with you.

Maverick: Oh, dad. I'm too tired. I want to sleep.

Arnold Blair: Now son, you're a Blair, you've got no right to let go of a life it took so many to create. Just take my hand, Christopher...

Maverick: (sighs) (groans)

Maniac: That's from the Broadsword. Maverick's alive back there.

Archer: Go ahead, Maniac, we've got things under control.

Maniac: I knew it was you, Maverick. That was some shot. Let's go home.


SCENE - Sick Bay

Maverick: Huh, lack of oxygen must have gotten to me. First I imagined I saw my dad. Then I thought Maniac (laughs) rescued me.

Maniac: (laughs) Yeah, fat chance. Next you'll be dreaming you're a better pilot than me.

Maverick: (laughs)

Tolwyn: Don't you have duty, cadet?

Maniac: Oh, uh, yes sir.

Tolwyn: Then I suggest you get to it.

Tolwyn: I'll expect a full report when you're up and about, cadet. But tell me, what happened to your Broadsword? You were ordered to avoid contact with the enemy.

Payback: Sir, I, uh.

Maverick: Sir, the Kilrathi were on us as soon as we came out of the node. Cadet Price was hit as we fought our way back.

Tolwyn: Disobeying orders or lying to a commanding officer can get you expelled from the academy. We are all expendable. We each have to answer for our own mistakes. Is that really what happened? You were intercepted by the Kilrathi?

Maverick: I'm a Blair, sir. The Blairs never lie.


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