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The sixth episode of '''Wing Commander Academy''' (seventh by air date). Story by [[Mark Edens]], writing by [[Ted Pederson]] and [[Francis Moss]].
[[Chain of Command]] is the sixth episode of [[Wing Commander Academy (TV)|Wing Commander Academy]] aired and the seventh produced.


== Synopsis ==
{{infobox Episode Landing
[[Christopher Blair|Maverick]], [[Todd Marshall|Maniac]] and [[Gwen Bowman|Archer]] scramble from the [[TCS Tiger's Claw|''Tiger's Claw'']] as the carrier emerges from [[jumpspace]]. Maverick and Maniac identify a Kilrathi [[jump buoy]] in orbit around a nearby [[pulsar]], which [[Geoffrey Tolwyn|Commodore Tolwyn]] orders them to destroy. Maniac and Archer lead the attack, with Maverick in reserve. The buoy launches a volley of missiles as the fighters approach, most of which Archer and Maniac manage to shoot down, but one missile goes wide and locks onto Maniac's fighter. Maverick shoots down the missile, while Archer destroys the buoy. On the return flight, Maverick jovially taunts Maniac over needing his help, while a chastened Maniac blusters that he'll hang up his wings when that happens.
| name            = Lords of the Sky
| titlecard      = File:1x06-TitleCard.png
| episodenumber  = 1x06
| production      = 74707
| story          = [[Mark Edens]]
| writer          = [[Brooks Wachtel]]
| airdate        = November 2, 1996
| runtime        = 20m56s
| animation      = Madhouse
| theme          = Version 1
| previous        = [[Lords of the Sky]]
| next            = [[Expendable]]
}} {{TOC limit|3}}


Back on the ''Claw'', Tolwyn discusses with the cadets the strategic implications of the pulsar―unlike charted, stable jump points, the "supernode" has an untold number of potential jump points to other pulsars. All the cadets save, [[Hector Paz|Paz]], volunteer for the jump recon, but Tolwyn selects Blair and [[Lindsay Price|Price]], over Marshall's objections. The two are ordered to avoid enemy contact and return back with the reconnaissance information. "You're no good to me reduced to atoms," Tolwyn says bluntly.
==Summary==


As Tech [[Maya McEaddens|McEaddens]] refits Maverick's [[A-17 Broadsword|Broadsword]] bomber for "the long jump", Marshall gripes to Bowman over being rejected, citing the "Blair family connections." Dr. [[Guthrig Andropolos|Andropolos]] reports the rumors of favoritism to Tolwyn, who blithely responds that "I'm doing Maverick no favors sending him on this mission."
===Act One===


As Maverick and Payback emerge from the node, Maverick immediately spots three Kilrathi [[carrier]]s, as well as an unknown, larger fourth contact. Maverick orders Payback to take care of the two intercepting Kilrathi [[Sartha|fighters]] while he plots jump coordinates back to the ''Claw''. Payback easily disposes of the first fighter, but the second veers off and runs towards the guns of the assembled Kilrathi fleet. Undaunted, she gives chase, ignoring Maverick's repeated orders for her to disengage. Payback launches a spread of [[torpedo]]es that destroys one of the Kilrathi [[destroyer]]s, but a flight of [[Grikath]] led by [[Garahl]] cut her off from the node and cripple her craft, forcing her to eject. Payback defiantly dares the Kilrathi to kill her, but Garahl decides to take her prisoner instead. As he prepares to pick up her pod, Maverick's Broadsword tears into the Kilrathi flight, temporarily disabling Gharal's fighter. In the ensuing chaos, Maverick manages to secure Payback's pod to the underside of his ship and runs back towards the pulsar.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Terran Confederation
! Empire of Kilrah
|-
!colspan="3"|Strength
|-
|6 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters<br>1 CF-131 Broadsword bombers
|2 Grikath heavy fighters<br>1 Kamekh corvette
|-
!colspan="3"|Losses
|-
|1 Scimitar destroyed
|2 Grikath and 1 Kamekh destroyed
|-
|}


A wing of [[Sartha]] move in to cut Maverick off from the node. Payback begs him to drop her pod so that he'll have a better chance, but Maverick will hear nothing of it, and scatters the Sartha with a time-delayed torpedo salvo. The fighters snipe at the escaping Broadsword, catching the bomber on its wing as it enters the node.
===Act Two===


In the relative safety of jumpspace, Payback boards Maverick's Broadsword. Her earlier bravado seems to have vanished as Maverick angrily chews her out for disobeying both him and Tolwyn. Payback remarks that if Maverick tells Tolwyn what happened, she'll wash out of the Academy. "I know," Blair responds grimly.


Garahl and the Captain of the ''[[KIS Ras Nik'hra|Ras Nik'rha]]'' report to [[Prince Thrakhath]] aboard his flagship, the ''[[KIS Agon ra Sivar|Agon ra Sivar]]''. The Prince expresses his pleasure with Garahl's performance in the recent battle, despite the defeat, and promotes him to Captain of the ''Ras Nik'hra''. The ''Ras Nik'hra''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s current Captain objects, only to be cut off by an angry tirade from Thrakkath over officers who fail and survive. The sullen commander departs, to "redeem his honor."
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Terran Confederation
! Empire of Kilrah
|-
!colspan="3"|Strength
|-
|13 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters<br>3 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
|-
!colspan="3"|Losses
|-
|1 Broadsword destroyed
|2 Grikath and 1 Ralar destroyed
|-
|}


Meanwhile, Blair reports to Price that the last hit from the enemy Sartha at the jump node took out the bomber's life support, and that the air left in her pod is all they have left.
===Act Three===


Three hours in, the air aboard Blair's Broadsword is running scarce. Barely conscious, Price brokenly recounts why she joined the military―a runaway from [[Icarus Colony]], she learned to fly ore shuttles. On her first trip home in years, the Kilrathi attacked Icarus, leaving no survivors. When she saw the destroyers on the other side, she thought one of them might have been the one that destroyed her home. Blair relates his story: a soldier from a family of soldiers, with a tradition of honor and service to maintain; how there had even been a General Blair in the civil war.
==Characters==


"Which civil war?" Payback asks.
===Speaking===


Maverick chuckles. "All of them."
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Bergstrom.png|Admiral Rhea Bergstrom
Image:1x06-Tolwyn.png|Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn
Image:1x06-Nelson.png|Commander Nelson
Image:1x06-Maverick.png|2nd Lt. Christopher "Maverick" Blair
Image:1x06-Archer.png|2nd Lt. Gwen "Archer" Bowman
Image:1x06-Maniac.png|2nd Lt. Todd "Maniac" Marshall
Image:1x06-Grunt.png|2nd Lt. Hector "Grunt" Paz
Image:1x06-Pitchfork.png|2nd Lt. Ved "Pitchfork" Patel
Image:1x06-Hyena.png|2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang
Image:1x06-TrafalgarBridge.png|Trafalgar Bridge Crewman
Image:1x06-Thrakhath.png|Prince Thrakhath nar Kiranka
Image:1x06-DestroyerCommander.png|Destroyer Commander
Image:1x06-Gharal.png|Lord Gharal nar Hhallas
Image:1x06-KilrathiPilot.png|Kilrathi Pilot
Image:1x06-AganRasSivarBridgeCrew.png|Agan Ras Sivar Bridge Crewman (center)
Image:
Image:
</gallery>


The bomber finally emerges from jumpspace, but with no sign of the ''Claw'' or anything else. Payback collapses, unconscious.
===Nonspeaking===


Some distance away, the ''Claw'' is, indeed, there, powered down and hidden from sensor range. With neither life support telemetry nor communications from Maverick's Broadsword, Tolwyn opts to keep radio silence, pointing out that the loss of one ship means enemy contact. As he explains to Gunther, "A pilot is expendable. We all are. That's what it means to be a soldier."
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Cadets.png|2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price & Pilots (3)
Image:1x06-Jazzman.png|2nd Lt. "Jazzman" (left)
Image:1x06-TCBridgeCrew.png|Bridge Crew (5)
Image:1x06-TCBridgeCrew2.png|Bridge Crew (3)
Image:1x06-TCBridgeOfficer.png|Bridge Crewman (right)
Image:1x06-GroundCrews.png|Ground Crew (2)
Image:1x06-SensorOperator.png|Sensor Operator (left)
Image:1x06-MayaDamageControl.png|Tech Specialist Maya McEadance & Damage Control Crewman
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>


As part of the ''Claw'''s strike group, Maniac watches Blair's disabled ship helplessly, barely being talked out of a solo rescue attempt by Archer. He muses gloomily about how he wanted to beat Maverick, but not like this.
==Locations==


Tolwyn's suspicions prove correct as a flight of [[Dralthi I|Dralthi]] emerge from the node, the ''Ras Nik'hra''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s ex-captain in the van. He locks on to Maverick's bomber, only to be ripped apart as the ''Claw'''s fighters tear into the Kilrathi wing. As the battle moves away, a lone Dralthi breaks off from the main group and makes a run on Blair's Broadsword.
===Tiger's Claw===


Barely conscious from lack of oxygen, Blair sees his father in a vision―proud and firm, dressed in officer's uniform. His father tells Blair him to wake up, that if he dies, forty generations of Blairs die with him. The father-vision extends his hand to Blair, who tries to reach, but collapses. His hand falls on the bomber's control panel, firing a missile right into the attacking Dralthi, destroying it. Seeing this, Maniac veers away from the main force, which has the Kilrathi in rout, and tractors the Broadsword back to the ''Claw''.
[[File:1x06-TigersClaw.png|frameless]]


As Price and Blair recover in sickbay, Blair jokes to Marshall that he must have been hallucinating badly―first his father talking, and then Maniac rescuing him. Their reverie is cut short by Commodore Tolwyn, who wants a report on what happened on the other side of the node. Price starts to speak up, but Blair cuts her off, recounting that they were ambushed by the Kilrathi and Payback lost her bomber as they tried to break through, omitting how she broke off to attack the Kilrathi fleet even as Blair was ready to jump back. A frankly sceptical Tolwyn reminds Blair of the penalty for lying to a commanding officer.
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-BriefingRoom.png|Briefing Room
Image:1x06-OutsideBriefingRoom.png|Outside Briefing Room
Image:1x06-FlightDeck.png|Flight Deck
Image:1x06-TCBridge.png|Bridge
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>


"I'm a Blair, sir," Maverick replies. "The Blairs never lie."
===Trafalgar===


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


[[Category:Academy Television]]
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-TrafalgarBridge2.png|Bridge
</gallery>
 
===Agan Ras Sivar===
 
[[File:1x06-AganRasSivarHeader.png|frameless]]
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-AganRasSivarBridge.png|Bridge
Image:1x06-ThroneRoom.png|Throne Room
</gallery>
 
===Destroyer===
 
[[File:1x06-DestroyerHeader.png|frameless]]
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-DestroyerBridge.png|Bridge
</gallery>
 
===Seti Beta System===
 
[[File:1x06-SetiBetaSystem.png|frameless]]
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-JumpNode.png|Jump Node
Image:1x06-MoonSensorShadow.png|Seti Beta I
</gallery>
 
===Cockpits===
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-ScimitarCockpit.png|Scimitar
Image:1x06-BroadswordCockpit.png|Broadsword
Image:1x06-LifeboatCockpit.png|Lifeboat
</gallery>
 
==Ships==
 
===Terran Confederation===
 
====Fighters====
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Scimitar.png|[[CF-105 Scimitar]]
Image:1x06-Broadsword.png|[[CF-131 Broadsword]]
Image:1x06-Shuttle.png|[[Shuttle]]
</gallery>
 
====Capital Ships====
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Byrd.png|[[Byrd]]
Image:1x06-Achilles.png|[[Achilles]]
Image:1x06-Manassas.png|[[Light Cruiser]]
Image:1x06-Bengal.png|[[Bengal]]
</gallery>
 
===Empire of Kilrah===
 
====Fighters====
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Dralthi.png|[[Dralthi]]
Image:1x06-Grikath.png|[[Grikath]]
Image:1x06-KilrathiShuttle.png|[[Shuttle]]
</gallery>
 
====Capital Ships====
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-Kamekh.png|[[Kamekh]]
Image:1x06-Destroyer.png|[[Ralar]]
Image:1x06-AganRasSivar.png|[[Agan Ras Sivar]]
</gallery>
 
==Vehicles==
 
===Terran Confederation===
 
<gallery mode="nolines">
Image:1x06-BroadswordEjectionPod.png|Broadsword Ejection Pod
Image:1x06-TrafalgarLifeboat.png|Trafalgar Lifeboat
</gallery>
 
==Trivia==
 
==Animation Errors==
 
==Credits==
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Role
! Name
|-
!Story by
|[[Mark Edens]]
|-
!Written by
|[[Brooks Wachtel]]
|-
!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)
|-
!
|[[Tom Wilson]] (Maniac)
|-
!
|[[Malcolm McDowell]] (Tolwyn)
|-
!
|[[Dana Delany]] (Archer)
|-
!Also Starring
|[[Jessica Walters]] (Bergstrom)
|-
!
|[[Kevin Schoen]] (Thrakhath, Hyena)
|-
!
|[[Pat Fraley]] (Grunt, Gharal, Pitchfork)
|-
!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
|[[Bob Smith]]
|-
!
|[[Sean Bishop]]
|-
!
|[[Ian Freedman]]
|-
!
|[[Tim Eldred]]
|-
!Storyboard Cleanup
|[[Judy Nielson]]
|-
!Timing Directors
|[[Carole Beers]]
|-
!
|[[Brian Ray]]
|-
!
|[[Zeon Davush]]
|-
!
|[[Al Wilsbach]]
|-
!
|[[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 Maruyama]]
|-
!Produced in Association with
|[[USA Network]]
|-
|}
 
==Transcript==
 
===Act One===
 
====SCENE - Bridge====
 
'''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.
 
'''Maverick''': Sir, why was I ordered to remain onboard? I'd rather be out there with my squadron.
 
'''Tolwyn''': We don't always get what we want, cadet. You're here to learn what it means to command.
 
'''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.
 
 
====SCENE - Jump Node====
 
'''Maniac''': Thank you very much. Afterburners on my mark, now.
 
'''Archer''': Looks like a corvette and two heavy fighters.
 
'''Maniac''': I'm getting scanned. They've seen us and they're running for home. (laugh) Must have heard I was here.
 
'''Archer''': Maniac, we're going for the corvette. Cover us.
 
'''Maniac''': Woo-hoo!
 
'''Archer''': Can't let them get to the jump node. Concentrate on the engine ports. I got his engines!
 
'''Hyena''': Target lock. Launching torpedoes. Hah! Torpedoes away!
 
'''Archer''': I got his engines. No! He wasn't going anywhere, I got his engines.
 
'''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.
 
'''Hyena''': Man, what got your flight suit in a wad? We've got flashes coming from the jump node, more bogies coming through.
 
 
====SCENE - Bridge====
 
'''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.
 
'''Nelson''': Sensor probe indicates seven ships coming through.
 
 
====Scene - SPACE====
 
'''Archer''': Looks like heavies, I think one's a carrier. And escorts.
 
'''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.
 
'''Archer''': When are you going to grow up?
 
'''Maniac''': I can do it. I ran it in the simulator in tactics class.
 
'''Archer''': This isn't a simulation. Understood. Maniac, I just got orders from Tolwyn, abort the attack.
 
'''Maniac''': Aw, no, that catbox was mine.
 
'''Archer''': You mean it's ours. They're Confederation.
 
 
====SCENE - Bridge====
 
'''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''': Rhea Bergstrom?
 
'''Nelson''': You know Admiral Bergstrom, sir?
 
'''Tolwyn''': I used to. A long time ago.
 
 
====SCENE - Flight Deck====
 
'''Tolwyn''': Welcome aboard the Tiger's Claw.
 
'''Bergstrom''': That's ten credits you owe me.
 
'''Tolwyn''': I'm afraid I don't understand, Admiral.
 
'''Bergstrom''': Our bet, when we were cadets at the Academy. Who would make Admiral first.
 
'''Tolwyn''': yes. (laughs) We were young, so ambitious. (clears throat) Congratulations on your promotion.
 
'''Bergstrom''': Thank you, Commodore.
 
 
====SCENE - Briefing Room====
 
'''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...
 
'''Bergstrom''': A calculated risk. Our two carriers have a combined strike group of nearly 140 fighters. That ought to be enough.
 
'''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.
 
'''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.
 
'''Tolwyn''': The last time we met you still called me Geoffrey.
 
'''Bergstrom''': You said it before, we were young then. You have my orders, now carry them out.
 
 
====SCENE - Flight Deck====
 
'''Archer''': Nice job, Maniac. You almost bagged that carrier.
 
'''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====
 
'''Bergstrom''': What's your opinion of Commodore Tolwyn?
 
'''Maverick''': Cadets aren't supposed to have opinions of commodores.
 
'''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.
 
'''Maverick''': Why are you telling me this, Admiral?
 
'''Bergstrom''': I don't trust him, either. I want you to report to me if Tolwyn fails to carry about my orders.
 
'''Maverick''': Admiral. you're asking me to spy on my commanding officer?
 
'''Bergstrom''': I'm not asking you to spy on him, I'm ordering you to.
 
===Act Two===
 
====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.
 
'''Maverick''': What will you do then?
 
'''Bergstrom''': I shall relieve Commodore Tolwyn of his command.
 
 
====SCENE - Briefing Room====
 
'''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.
 
'''Maverick''': Sir, Admiral Bergstrom... (sighs)
 
'''Tolwyn''': I'm putting you in command of the fighters at the node. Any questions?
 
'''Maverick''': No, sir.
 
 
====SCENE - Jump Node====
 
'''Maniac''': Glad you could make the party this time, Maverick. Uhm, yo. (laughs) Ah, Maverick. Hey, you reading me?
 
'''Maverick''': Maverick to Tiger's Claw, urgent message for Commodore Tolwyn.
 
'''Tolwyn''': You were ordered to power down.
 
'''Maverick''': I've also been ordered to report to Admiral Bergstrom if you fail to carry out her orders.
 
'''Tolwyn''': Why, you disloyal little...
 
'''Maverick''': She gave me a direct order. I had no choice. She intends to remove you from command.
 
'''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...
 
'''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.
 
 
====SCENE - Destroyer Bridge====
 
'''Gharal''': Commander, we have detected multiple energy surges. They appear to be Confederation fighters powering up.
 
'''Commnader''': All fighters intercept the Terrans. Destroyers and corvettes assume defensive formation.
 
 
====SCENE - Jump Node====
 
'''Maniac''': That lead Grikath's mine.
 
'''Maverick''': Maniac, stay on my wing. We've got to clear a path for the Broadswords.
 
'''Maniac''': Oh, no problem, one express lane coming up.
 
'''Maverick''': Maniac. Maniac, bogey on your tail. Six o'clock.
 
'''Maniac''': Oh, you're good. But I'm the best. Woo-hoo, yeah!
 
'''Archer''': Okay, Pitchfork, the fighters are busy. Let them have it.
 
'''Pitchfork''': I've got a target lock. Torpedoes away!
 
'''Hyena''': No, they got Pitchfork!
 
'''Archer''': There's nothing you can do, get out of there.
 
'''Hyena''': We're getting out of here if I've got to get out and push.
 
 
====SCENE - Destroyer Bridge====
 
'''Gharal''': Gharal to all ships. I am assuming command. Target that bomber.
 
'''Pilot''': Lord Gharal, the Terran fighters are withdrawing.
 
'''Gharal''': Why withdraw when they have the advantage? Do not pursue. Follow them, carefully. They could be trying to set a trap.
 
 
====SCENE - Briefing Room====
 
'''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.
 
'''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.
 
'''Maverick''': Sir, I didn't...
 
'''Tolwyn''': Dismissed.
 
'''Hyena''': What landed you in the doghouse?
 
'''Archer''': The old man can't blame you for what happened to Ved. You were only following orders.
 
'''Maverick''': Yeah, just following orders.
 
 
====SCENE - Throne Room====
 
'''Thrakhath''': Enter and report. What is the status of the Terran carrier?
 
'''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''': The carriers will not be coming through the jump node, Gharal. I have brought only my flagship and her escorts.
 
'''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''': 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.
 
===Act Three===
 
====SCENE - Maverick's Quarters====
 
'''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 - Tolwyn's Office====
 
'''Tolwyn''': (sighs) I want all the cadet pilots in the briefing room in one hour. And that includes Cadet Blair.
 
 
====SCENE - Briefing Room====
 
'''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.
 
'''Nelson''': Commodore. Message from Admiral Bergstrom. They're under attack.
 
'''Tolwyn''': Pipe it into the briefing room.
 
'''Bergstrom''': We're under heavy attack. At least two carrier air wings. Destroyer Ajax lost.
 
'''Maniac''': Man, they couldn't of  gotten past us.
 
'''Maverick''': It's another fleet. The Kilrathi have another fleet in this system!
 
'''Bergstrom''': Tiger's Claw. Need help. can't last much...
 
'''Nelson''': Message terminated at the source.
 
'''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.
 
'''Maverick''': Aye aye, sir.
 
 
====SCENE - Trafalgar Bridge====
 
'''Crewman''': Damage report, Admiral. Heavy casualties. Fire spreading to all decks. Weapons gone. Main engines going critical. Admiral, what are your orders?
 
'''Bergstrom''': Abandon ship.
 
 
====SCENE - Seti Beta I====
 
'''Maverick''': Multiple contacts. Looks like Confederation fighters with lots of Kilrathi in pursuit.
 
'''Archer''': Maverick, can you read the Trafalgar? Or any of our ships?
 
'''Maverick''': Negative, it's just those fighters. Save those lifepods.
 
'''Hyena''': For you, Pitchfork, for you. (screams)
 
'''Grunt''': We need you man, we need you.
 
'''Maverick''': Run you furball, run!
 
'''Archer''': They'll be back, and with lots of friends.
 
'''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.
 
'''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.
 
'''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.
 
'''Bergstrom''': Where will it take us, Geoffrey?
 
'''Tolwyn''': Does it matter? We're running for our lives now.
 
 
====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''': Well we're not going to be here. All ahead full, make for the jump node.
 
 
====SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge====
 
'''Crewman''': Sensors report Terran carrier entering weapons range. 
 
'''Thrakhath''': He's trying to run the blockade. Position us over the jump node. Order all ships to open fire.
 
 
====SCENE - Bridge====
 
'''Tolwyn''': Divert power to the forward shields. Return fire.
 
'''Maverick''': Sir, should we launch fighters to clear the way?
 
'''Tolwyn''': No, we won't have time to get them back aboard and I won't leave them behind.
 
'''Nelson''': Shields failing. We'll have to divert power from the engines to keep them up.
 
'''Tolwyn''': Negative, head straight for that dreadnought. We'll see how eager Prince Thrakhath is to meet his ancestors.
 
 
====SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge====
 
'''Crewman''': The Terrans are on a collision course, your highness.
 
'''Thrakhath''': This Terran fights like a Kilrathi
 
 
====SCENE - Destroyer Bridge====
 
'''Gharl''': They are brave, these Terrans.
 
 
====SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge====
 
'''Crewman''': Collision imminent. Your orders, highness?
 
'''Thrakhath''': Argh! Hard to port.
 
 
====SCENE - Flight Deck====
 
'''Tolwyn''': Sometimes I wish I were just a pilot again, and the only life I was responsible for was my own.
 
'''Maverick''': And your wingman's, sir.
 
'''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''': With all due respect, sir, no one knew the second Kilrathi fleet was in that system.
 
'''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''': Uh, sir. At the jump node, how did you know the Kilrathi would get out of the way?
 
'''Tolwyn''': I didn't.

Revision as of 15:57, 22 May 2020

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


Lords of the Sky
1x06-TitleCard.png
Episode Number 1x06
Production Code 74707
Story Mark Edens
Writer(s) Brooks Wachtel
Air Date November 2, 1996
Run Time 20m56s
Animation Studio Madhouse
Theme Version 1
Previous Lords of the Sky
Next Expendable



Summary

Act One

Terran Confederation Empire of Kilrah
Strength
6 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters
1 CF-131 Broadsword bombers 		2 Grikath heavy fighters
1 Kamekh corvette
Losses
1 Scimitar destroyed 2 Grikath and 1 Kamekh destroyed

Act Two

Terran Confederation Empire of Kilrah
Strength
13 CF-105 Scimitar medium fighters
3 CF-131 Broadsword bombers 		15 Dralthi medium fighters
4 Grikath heavy fighters
3 Kamekh corvettes
2 Ralar destroyers
20 unidentified fighters
Losses
1 Broadsword destroyed 2 Grikath and 1 Ralar destroyed

Act Three

Characters

Speaking

  • Admiral Rhea Bergstrom

    Admiral Rhea Bergstrom

  • Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn

    Commodore Geoffrey Tolwyn

  • Commander Nelson

    Commander Nelson

  • 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. Ved "Pitchfork" Patel

    2nd Lt. Ved "Pitchfork" Patel

  • 2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang

    2nd Lt. Yulan "Hyena" Chang

  • Trafalgar Bridge Crewman

    Trafalgar Bridge Crewman

  • Prince Thrakhath nar Kiranka

    Prince Thrakhath nar Kiranka

  • Destroyer Commander

    Destroyer Commander

  • Lord Gharal nar Hhallas

    Lord Gharal nar Hhallas

  • Kilrathi Pilot

    Kilrathi Pilot

  • Agan Ras Sivar Bridge Crewman (center)

    Agan Ras Sivar Bridge Crewman (center)

Nonspeaking

  • 2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price & Pilots (3)

    2nd Lt. Lindsay "Payback" Price & Pilots (3)

  • 2nd Lt. "Jazzman" (left)

    2nd Lt. "Jazzman" (left)

  • Bridge Crew (5)

    Bridge Crew (5)

  • Bridge Crew (3)

    Bridge Crew (3)

  • Bridge Crewman (right)

    Bridge Crewman (right)

  • Ground Crew (2)

    Ground Crew (2)

  • Sensor Operator (left)

    Sensor Operator (left)

  • Tech Specialist Maya McEadance & Damage Control Crewman

    Tech Specialist Maya McEadance & Damage Control Crewman

  • Repair Crew (3)

    Repair Crew (3)

  • Medical Crewman & Trafalgar Survivors (3)

    Medical Crewman & Trafalgar Survivors (3)

  • Medical Crew (4) & Trafalgar Survivor

    Medical Crew (4) & Trafalgar Survivor

  • Trafalgar Bridge Crew (2)

    Trafalgar Bridge Crew (2)

  • Destroyer Bridge Crew (3)

    Destroyer Bridge Crew (3)

  • Destroyer Crewman (standing)

    Destroyer Crewman (standing)

  • Agan Ras Sivar Bridge Crewman (left)

    Agan Ras Sivar Bridge Crewman (left)

Locations

Tiger's Claw

1x06-TigersClaw.png

  • Briefing Room

    Briefing Room

  • Outside Briefing Room

    Outside Briefing Room

  • Flight Deck

    Flight Deck

  • Bridge

    Bridge

  • Admiral Bergstrom's Shuttle

    Admiral Bergstrom's Shuttle

  • Maverick's Quarters

    Maverick's Quarters

  • Tolwyn's Office

    Tolwyn's Office

  • Sick Bay

    Sick Bay

Trafalgar

1x06-Trafalgar.png

  • Bridge

    Bridge

Agan Ras Sivar

1x06-AganRasSivarHeader.png

  • Bridge

    Bridge

  • Throne Room

    Throne Room

Destroyer

1x06-DestroyerHeader.png

  • Bridge

    Bridge

Seti Beta System

1x06-SetiBetaSystem.png

  • Jump Node

    Jump Node

  • Seti Beta I

    Seti Beta I

Cockpits

  • Scimitar

    Scimitar

  • Broadsword

    Broadsword

  • Lifeboat

    Lifeboat

Ships

Terran Confederation

Fighters

Capital Ships

Empire of Kilrah

Fighters

Capital Ships

Vehicles

Terran Confederation

  • Broadsword Ejection Pod

    Broadsword Ejection Pod

  • Trafalgar Lifeboat

    Trafalgar Lifeboat

Trivia

Animation Errors

Credits

Role Name
Story by Mark Edens
Written by Brooks Wachtel
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)
Tom Wilson (Maniac)
Malcolm McDowell (Tolwyn)
Dana Delany (Archer)
Also Starring Jessica Walters (Bergstrom)
Kevin Schoen (Thrakhath, Hyena)
Pat Fraley (Grunt, Gharal, Pitchfork)
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 Bob Smith
Sean Bishop
Ian Freedman
Tim Eldred
Storyboard Cleanup Judy Nielson
Timing Directors Carole Beers
Brian Ray
Zeon Davush
Al Wilsbach
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 Maruyama
Produced in Association with USA Network

Transcript

Act One

SCENE - Bridge

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.

Maverick: Sir, why was I ordered to remain onboard? I'd rather be out there with my squadron.

Tolwyn: We don't always get what we want, cadet. You're here to learn what it means to command.

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.


SCENE - Jump Node

Maniac: Thank you very much. Afterburners on my mark, now.

Archer: Looks like a corvette and two heavy fighters.

Maniac: I'm getting scanned. They've seen us and they're running for home. (laugh) Must have heard I was here.

Archer: Maniac, we're going for the corvette. Cover us.

Maniac: Woo-hoo!

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

Hyena: Target lock. Launching torpedoes. Hah! Torpedoes away!

Archer: I got his engines. No! He wasn't going anywhere, I got his engines.

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.

Hyena: Man, what got your flight suit in a wad? We've got flashes coming from the jump node, more bogies coming through.


SCENE - Bridge

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.

Nelson: Sensor probe indicates seven ships coming through.


Scene - SPACE

Archer: Looks like heavies, I think one's a carrier. And escorts.

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.

Archer: When are you going to grow up?

Maniac: I can do it. I ran it in the simulator in tactics class.

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

Maniac: Aw, no, that catbox was mine.

Archer: You mean it's ours. They're Confederation.


SCENE - Bridge

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: Rhea Bergstrom?

Nelson: You know Admiral Bergstrom, sir?

Tolwyn: I used to. A long time ago.


SCENE - Flight Deck

Tolwyn: Welcome aboard the Tiger's Claw.

Bergstrom: That's ten credits you owe me.

Tolwyn: I'm afraid I don't understand, Admiral.

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

Tolwyn: yes. (laughs) We were young, so ambitious. (clears throat) Congratulations on your promotion.

Bergstrom: Thank you, Commodore.


SCENE - Briefing Room

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...

Bergstrom: A calculated risk. Our two carriers have a combined strike group of nearly 140 fighters. That ought to be enough.

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.

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.

Tolwyn: The last time we met you still called me Geoffrey.

Bergstrom: You said it before, we were young then. You have my orders, now carry them out.


SCENE - Flight Deck

Archer: Nice job, Maniac. You almost bagged that carrier.

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

Bergstrom: What's your opinion of Commodore Tolwyn?

Maverick: Cadets aren't supposed to have opinions of commodores.

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.

Maverick: Why are you telling me this, Admiral?

Bergstrom: I don't trust him, either. I want you to report to me if Tolwyn fails to carry about my orders.

Maverick: Admiral. you're asking me to spy on my commanding officer?

Bergstrom: I'm not asking you to spy on him, I'm ordering you to.

Act Two

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.

Maverick: What will you do then?

Bergstrom: I shall relieve Commodore Tolwyn of his command.


SCENE - Briefing Room

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.

Maverick: Sir, Admiral Bergstrom... (sighs)

Tolwyn: I'm putting you in command of the fighters at the node. Any questions?

Maverick: No, sir.


SCENE - Jump Node

Maniac: Glad you could make the party this time, Maverick. Uhm, yo. (laughs) Ah, Maverick. Hey, you reading me?

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

Tolwyn: You were ordered to power down.

Maverick: I've also been ordered to report to Admiral Bergstrom if you fail to carry out her orders.

Tolwyn: Why, you disloyal little...

Maverick: She gave me a direct order. I had no choice. She intends to remove you from command.

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...

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.


SCENE - Destroyer Bridge

Gharal: Commander, we have detected multiple energy surges. They appear to be Confederation fighters powering up.

Commnader: All fighters intercept the Terrans. Destroyers and corvettes assume defensive formation.


SCENE - Jump Node

Maniac: That lead Grikath's mine.

Maverick: Maniac, stay on my wing. We've got to clear a path for the Broadswords.

Maniac: Oh, no problem, one express lane coming up.

Maverick: Maniac. Maniac, bogey on your tail. Six o'clock.

Maniac: Oh, you're good. But I'm the best. Woo-hoo, yeah!

Archer: Okay, Pitchfork, the fighters are busy. Let them have it.

Pitchfork: I've got a target lock. Torpedoes away!

Hyena: No, they got Pitchfork!

Archer: There's nothing you can do, get out of there.

Hyena: We're getting out of here if I've got to get out and push.


SCENE - Destroyer Bridge

Gharal: Gharal to all ships. I am assuming command. Target that bomber.

Pilot: Lord Gharal, the Terran fighters are withdrawing.

Gharal: Why withdraw when they have the advantage? Do not pursue. Follow them, carefully. They could be trying to set a trap.


SCENE - Briefing Room

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.

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.

Maverick: Sir, I didn't...

Tolwyn: Dismissed.

Hyena: What landed you in the doghouse?

Archer: The old man can't blame you for what happened to Ved. You were only following orders.

Maverick: Yeah, just following orders.


SCENE - Throne Room

Thrakhath: Enter and report. What is the status of the Terran carrier?

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: The carriers will not be coming through the jump node, Gharal. I have brought only my flagship and her escorts.

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: 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.

Act Three

SCENE - Maverick's Quarters

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 - Tolwyn's Office

Tolwyn: (sighs) I want all the cadet pilots in the briefing room in one hour. And that includes Cadet Blair.


SCENE - Briefing Room

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.

Nelson: Commodore. Message from Admiral Bergstrom. They're under attack.

Tolwyn: Pipe it into the briefing room.

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

Maniac: Man, they couldn't of gotten past us.

Maverick: It's another fleet. The Kilrathi have another fleet in this system!

Bergstrom: Tiger's Claw. Need help. can't last much...

Nelson: Message terminated at the source.

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.

Maverick: Aye aye, sir.


SCENE - Trafalgar Bridge

Crewman: Damage report, Admiral. Heavy casualties. Fire spreading to all decks. Weapons gone. Main engines going critical. Admiral, what are your orders?

Bergstrom: Abandon ship.


SCENE - Seti Beta I

Maverick: Multiple contacts. Looks like Confederation fighters with lots of Kilrathi in pursuit.

Archer: Maverick, can you read the Trafalgar? Or any of our ships?

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

Hyena: For you, Pitchfork, for you. (screams)

Grunt: We need you man, we need you.

Maverick: Run you furball, run!

Archer: They'll be back, and with lots of friends.

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.

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.

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.

Bergstrom: Where will it take us, Geoffrey?

Tolwyn: Does it matter? We're running for our lives now.


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


SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge

Crewman: Sensors report Terran carrier entering weapons range.

Thrakhath: He's trying to run the blockade. Position us over the jump node. Order all ships to open fire.


SCENE - Bridge

Tolwyn: Divert power to the forward shields. Return fire.

Maverick: Sir, should we launch fighters to clear the way?

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

Nelson: Shields failing. We'll have to divert power from the engines to keep them up.

Tolwyn: Negative, head straight for that dreadnought. We'll see how eager Prince Thrakhath is to meet his ancestors.


SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge

Crewman: The Terrans are on a collision course, your highness.

Thrakhath: This Terran fights like a Kilrathi


SCENE - Destroyer Bridge

Gharl: They are brave, these Terrans.


SCENE - Agan Ras Sivar Bridge

Crewman: Collision imminent. Your orders, highness?

Thrakhath: Argh! Hard to port.


SCENE - Flight Deck

Tolwyn: Sometimes I wish I were just a pilot again, and the only life I was responsible for was my own.

Maverick: And your wingman's, sir.

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: With all due respect, sir, no one knew the second Kilrathi fleet was in that system.

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: Uh, sir. At the jump node, how did you know the Kilrathi would get out of the way?

Tolwyn: I didn't.

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