Date: Fri, 09 Dec 94 20:54:32 -0500    
From: mark.koeberl@jadebbs.com

BATTLESTARS

Story by Mark Koeberl
Registered with WGA-W
Based on characters created by Glen Larson

ACT ONE  EXT LONG SHOT FLEET SPACE

The fleet has found Earth and its solar system, but can not approach 
Earth.  It is stationary, waiting beyond Mars, with possibly Saturn or 
Jupiter in view to give perspective. The camera pans forward, though 
the ships of the fleet remain indistinguishably small.

TIGH (V.O.)
(reverently) The journey which began 17 jarhen (beat) years, ago has 
finally ended. It was of necessity that we searched out Earth.

Inset shots from earlier shows  showing the destruction of the last
battlestar fleet, the attack on the colonies, and Baltar conspiring 
with the Cylons fade in and out as Tigh speaks.

TIGH (V.O.)
We were deceived, (beat) betrayed, (beat) and almost destroyed. Our
home worlds were at the mercy of a merciless conqueror. We could not
stay, as it would have meant our own destruction.

The camera is still panning slowly in on the fleet, though the
ships remain small. Inset shot end for the moment.

CASSIOPEIA (V.O.)
(beat, beat) We had to flee, and we were forced to use whatever ships we
could.

Inset shots of various ships of the fleet forming, followed by scenes
of Cylon Raiders attacking the Galactica and the fleet, fade in and out.

CASSIOPEIA (V.O.)
It was not our intent to fight or seek revenge, but our enemies pressed 
their attacks.

Inset shots of Colonial Vipers and pilots attacking Cylon Riders
fade in and out.

CASSIOPEIA (V.O.)
We escaped destruction, and continued to look for what seemed our only
hope, to find our brothers on Earth.

Camera pans closer to the fleet, though it is still distant.

BOOMER (V.O.)
(beat, beat) We found signs of the lost tribe, and our hopes were high
that our flight would soon be over.

Inset shots of dealings with Terra fade in and out.

BOOMER (V.O.)
(beat) These hopes proved too optimistic.

Inset shot of poor living conditions and crowdedness on ships in the
fleet. Shots fade in and out.

BOOMER (V.O.)
We tried to save as many people as we could, expecting a voyage that would
last at most a jahren, (beat) year or two. We never thought it would take
17. The overcrowding of ships, and the strain it caused on our limited
resources was overwhelming. Diseases would periodically break out among 
the crowded ships. The last outbreak claimed our Commander and inspiration,
Adama.

Fade into and out of a shot of Adama.

BOOMER (V.O.)
(beat) His death came just prior to reaching the solar system of the 
thirteenth tribe.

Camera pans closer to the fleet. The Galactica becomes apparent, though 
it is still small.

SHEBA (V.O.)
(beat, beat) The hardships were great, but it is in the hardest trials of
life that the true temper of the human spirit shows its strength.

Inset shots of new weapons and experimental Vipers and their deployment
fade in and out.

SHEBA (V.O.)
We added more laser turrets to not only the Galactica, but to many of the
other ships of the fleet. We developed a small version of the Ravishol
pulsar canon, a weapon that nearly destroyed the fleet. We have also
experimented on improvement to our Viper fighters, which, when complete,
would make them faster and more powerful than before.

Camera pans closer to the fleet, with even more ships starting
to take form.

STARBUCK (V.O.)
(beat) We continued to prepare for war for a number of reasons. We had 
discovered old communication signals from Earth (beat) years, ago.

Inset shots of t.v. programs and clips, including moon shot footage.

Shots fade in and out, familiar shot at first, somewhat futuristic
ones near the end.

STARBUCK (V.O.)
We knew that if we could detect them then the Cylons could too. We also 
knew the Cylons were not the type to just forget about us and let us go 
on our way. It took many years of examination, but we eventually came
to understand the communications of our brothers on Earth. We learned
a great deal about their culture, their language, and their sciences.
(beat) (heavily) We also learned that they could offer us no refuge 
from the Cylons, or help in fighting against the Cylons.

Camera pan continues to move in on the fleet.

APOLLO (V.O.)
(beat) Only the Cylon attack and destruction of our colonies could
match in depth and degree the despair and depression felt when we
learned that our brothers could not help us. There was no turning back,
and there seemed to be no future.  But we had come too far to 
just sit idly by and wait for the Cylons come and finish us. We wanted
to contact our brothers on Earth, to warn them of the dangers ahead,
and possibly help them advance to the point where they could meet and
withstand a Cylon attack, but we disagreed on the best means of achieving
this. In the meantime, we decided to establish bases on the fourth planet 
in the solar system, a planet called Mars by our brothers. We hoped to 
create structures to alleviate the crowding on our ships, and to use these 
bases to support extra Viper squadrons.  We did not know the 
appropriateness of the name of planet Mars.

The Galactica is much closer now. ROLL credits, ending with a FULL
SHOT of the Galactica.

(EXT SPACE PASSING SHIP)
The shot on the Galactica is interrupted by a passing Viper.

(EXT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER - TRAVELING)
A newly designed Viper, with a more powerful look, continues its 
test flight.

(INT CLOSE SHOT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck is at the controls. His face is a mischievous mix of awe
and pleasure.

APOLLO (COMM VOICE)
Starbuck. Starbuck! Slow that Viper down.

STARBUCK
Apollo, we aren't testing a new shuttle craft here.

INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING

APOLLO
I know it's a new Viper, but you're pushing it too far.

STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
But Apollo, if you knew how this baby handled...

APOLLO
I know you're handling it on the edge of its performance envelope.
We need to work out the problems with fuel control before we go
to battle tests.

(INT CLOSE SHOT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck looks down.

(INT INSERT SHOT FUEL GAUGES)
Gauges show fuel cells at one quarter of capacity.

(INT CLOSE SHOT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)

STARBUCK
It certainly burns fuel. But any ship that moves like this is
bound to work up a thirst.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
Apollo looks down.

(INT INSERT SHOT FUEL GAUGES)
Fuel cells are at about three-quarters full

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)

APOLLO
What are you reading for fuel? Are you still over fifty percent?

(INT CLOSE SHOT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck tries to stretch the truth.

STARBUCK
Well... I've used a little more than that.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)

STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
But when something flies as well as this, you have to pay for the luxury.

APOLLO
You know as well as I do that we don't have the luxury of refueling
whenever we want during battle.

(INT CLOSE SHOT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck rolls his eyes and nods, but doesn't tell Apollo that Apollo
is right.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Bring the craft back to the Galactica. We can only hope the
technical crew can work out the problem.

(INT CLOSE SHOT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Ah, think I could run it for just a few more...

APOLLO (COMM VOICE)
(stepping on Starbuck's words) No! Land that Viper now!

STARBUCK
(acquiescing) Had to ask. (smiles)

(EXT EXPERIMENTAL VIPER - TRAVELING)
The Viper turns to head back to the Galactica.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT FREIGHTER ASTRADON BADJER)
Badjer is next to an old woman who looks to be ill. He is trying to 
help her.

BADJER
Faihla, have you been taking your ration supplements?

FAIHLA
(hesitant) Yes, but they give us so little. It's not enough.

BADJER
Your hemo-readouts should be better than they are if you're getting
your nutrients. I'll talk to medical officer and try to increase
your supplements ration.

Faihla slowly looks happy, but then seems to slip into a slight
depression. A younger woman, Amaranth, is watching the exchange.

FAIHLA
Thank you, Badjer. Thank you.

BADJER
I'll do what I can.

Badjer collects his instruments and walks down the crowded hall.

People seem to be everywhere. Amaranth waits a moment and the follows
Badjer. He walks a distance before Amaranth catches up to him.

AMARANTH
She lied to you.

Badjer is confused, not knowing what she is talking about.

BADJER
Excuse me?

AMARANTH
Faihla lied to you. She never ate all of her rations.

BADJER
She said they didn't give her enough.

AMARANTH
Oh, they give us enough, just barely. The problem is we don't get to eat
them ourselves.

Badger stops walking and looks at the girl.

BADJER
What are you talking about?

AMARANTH
(beat) It's Raizor, and his troop.

Badjer looks puzzled.

AMARANTH
Young robbers. They are preying on the old and the weak, taking most
of their rations.

BADJER
Why don't you stop them.

AMARANTH
For someone who wants to be a healer, you're not very smart.

BADJER
(displeased) I don't have time for this.

He turns to leave, but she grabs his arm.

AMARANTH
The strong only get stronger. How can the old and weak protect themselves?

Amaranth wins the point. Badjer tries to offer help.

BADJER
I'm going to speak to the medical officer. I can explain the situation
to ship security too.

AMARANTH
(skeptical) It might work, (beat) if you can keep a warrior score here 
just to feed us. 

They look at each other for a moment, and then she turns and walks
away. After a moment, he turns and walks off too.

(EXT FULL SHOT GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT FULL SHOT GALACTICA BRIDGE TIGH)
Tigh is talking to Omega as Starbuck and Apollo enter the bridge.

TIGH
Get those orders to the fabrication ship. (to Starbuck and Apollo)
(beat) What do you have to report on the experimental Viper.

STARBUCK
Hmmm, it flies like a charm, Commander. No regular Viper can
come close to keeping up with her.

Tigh shifts his glance to Apollo.

APOLLO
That's true, Commander. As long as it has fuel, the experimental 
Viper can't be touched. 

TIGH
As long as it has fuel, Colonel?

APOLLO
That's right, sir.

TIGH
Which means its consumption rate is still unacceptable.

STARBUCK
It is a little high but look at it as the price to be paid for performance.

TIGH
That price also includes the life of any pilot who runs out of fuel 
during battle.

Neither Apollo nor Starbuck challenge Tigh's conclusion.

TIGH
(sigh) It may be for the best that the new Viper has technical problems. 
The Council has ordered a suspension to the construction of new weapons 
systems, and directed that we focus all of our energy to constructing 
biospheres on Mars into which we can re-locate our people.

APOLLO
We can't just neglect our defenses.

TIGH
Our defenses have received a great deal of attention during our 
journey here. What has been neglected are the conditions that
our people have had to live in.

Again, neither Apollo nor Starbuck argue Tigh's point.

TIGH
(beat) I have not forgotten the value and need for a strong
military capability, but we may not have a people or culture to
defend unless we can change the conditions on those ships.

STARBUCK
It was never the good life on any of those ships.

TIGH
It has become even worse now that people know there's little choice but 
to stay in those conditions. Social structures seem to be disappearing.

APOLLO
Can't we assign more warriors to assist ship security forces.

TIGH
(stern) No, we can't. The requests for assistance that the Council has
received would empty two battlestars of their warriors. (beat) We must
remember that defense is not the only concern warriors must have for
those they defend. I agree with the Council in this matter.

Starbuck and Apollo exchange looks, knowing Tigh is right.

(EXT SPACE TWO VIPERS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
Jolly, you still awake?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - TRAVELING)
JOLLY
For now, Boomer. You know staying awake is the hardest thing about
these deep-space patrols.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
I thought fighting off boredom when you weren't sleepy was the 
hardest thing.


JOLLY
That's a very close second, sir.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
Well, either sleep or boredom can be deadly out here, Jolly. Mistakes 
don't need to be big ones to keep you from never seeing the fleet again.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - TRAVELING)
JOLLY
Roger that.

(EXT FULL SHOT SPACE FREIGHTER ASTRADON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT HALL BADJER)
Badjer is walking done a corridor, carrying his med-kit, which is
about the size of a small suitcase. As he walks into an area that
intersects another corridor, Amaranth collides with him. They both 
fall, but Amaranth quickly jumps back to her feet.

AMARANTH

Out of my way!

She takes only a few steps when pursuing boys catch up to her 
and grab her. Badjer watches, confused.

BADJER
What's going on?

AMARANTH
Stop them! Stop them!

Just then another boy enters the scene. He looks confident and cold.
He is Raizor, the head of the gang. There are four boys, all told.

BADJER
(to Raizor) Who are you? Tell them to let her go.

RAIZOR
(beat) (cocky) First, I can't ask them to let her go. I told them to 
stop her. Our business with her is not finished (beat) yet. (beat)
Second, I am Raizor, squire med-tech. You have a name?

Badjer looks at Amaranth, who seems defeated. Badjer begins to 
understand the gravity.

BADJER
You're the dagget that has been terrorizing these people. Stealing
their rations.

RAIZOR
(beat) Did you forget that you're a med-tech? You almost sounded like a
(cheesy smile) warrior. (beat) The people donate a portion of their rations 
to us. The wench her is going to make an even more generous donation.

The fire returns to Amaranth's eyes. She glares defiantly at Raizor.

AMARANTH
I'd rather die first!

RAIZOR
Death, if is to be part of the equation, would be near the end of
equation, not the start.

Badjer's courage and anger rise. He tries to intervene.

BADJER
No! Let her go. (beat) And leave her alone.

Raizor eyes Badjer, sizing him up.

RAIZOR
Again, the med-tech makes noises like a warrior. Are you a man whose 
actions live up to your words.

Badjer doesn't reply. Raizor smiles and moves, as if to turn away.
He suddenly moves back to strike Badjer. Badjer anticipates the move,
and his med-kit to catch Raizor's blow. Raizor nearly breaks his
hand, and steps back, pained and surprised. His three underlings
are also surprised. Badjer quickly speaks in a friendly voice.

BADJER
Oh, that is a bad injury. As a med-tech, I suggest laying down and resting.

Badjer then delivers a serious kick to Raizor groin. Raizor
melts to the floor.

BADJER
Anyone else need medical advice?

Amaranth and the three boys seem shocked by the events. Then Amaranth
collects her thoughts. She mule kicks the shin of the boy holding her
right arm, breaking slightly free of him. The boy on the left moves 
to grab her more securely, but she head buts him, and the knees him,
allowing her to be free from both grasps. The third boy moves towards 
her, but Badjer catches him in the back of the head with the med-kit.
Amaranth begins to flee down a corridor. She yells at Badjer.

AMARANTH
Move it! Let's get out of here.

BADJER
To where?

AMARANTH
Follow me! Now!

Badjer looks at the boys, who are slowly getting to their feet. He
turns and follows Amaranth.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - TRAVELING)
Jolly looks down at the instrument panel.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
The scanner shows a brief spike.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - TRAVELING)
JOLLY
Boomer, my scanners just picked something up.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
Mine too. I read it as an "L-band" emission.

JOLLY
L-band emissions don't occur naturally at that amplitude.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
That's right, Lieutenant. Someone out there is running
scanning pulses in this direction.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - TRAVELING)
JOLLY
(in a loud whisper) Cylons?!

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
That would be a good guess.

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
Should we begin scanning for them?

BOOMER
Negative. We inform the Galactica, so they have an idea of what's
happening here in case we get too busy to talk. Unless they order
otherwise, we wait here and hope the Cylons show themselves to us.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - TRAVELING)
JOLLY
There's a lot of space out there, Captain. What makes you think
we're in a good position to see them without scanners.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
Because, Lieutenant, we're just a short way off the flight path 
that our fleet followed into this system. If the Cylons have 
followed us and are now following Earth transmissions, there going
to pass close to here. We'll just let their scanning pulses tell us
where they're at.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - TRAVELING)
JOLLY
And when their scanning pulses start to get too strong, we move 
out of the way, then get behind them and warn the fleet.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
And few place are safer than behind your enemy. I like the way you think.

(EXT SPACE VIPER PATROL - TRAVELING)
The Vipers use a short burst from their thrusters to position themselves.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
Patrol to Galactica. We have a possible contact.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE OMEGA)
Omega is at his station, Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck are talking a
short distance away. Omega interrupts them.

OMEGA
Sirs, message from our deep-space patrol. Captain Boomer
reports discovering an L-band emission from outside this system.

APOLLO
Cylon scanners.

TIGH
What response has the patrol taken.

OMEGA
They have gone silent, and are hoping to get more hits on the
L-band emissions.

TIGH
Good. No reason to let the Cylons know we're out there looking for 
them. Order Captain Boomer to continue as is and keep us informed.

OMEGA
Yes sir.

Tigh moves Starbuck and Apollo off to one side and confers with them.

TIGH
Your thoughts, gentlemen?

APOLLO
Boomer hasn't made a hard contact yet, so it may be a false alarm.

STARBUCK
We haven't made it this far gambling that the Cylons aren't still out there.

TIGH
They're out there, all right. We just need to know where, and how close.

APOLLO
And how many.

STARBUCK
Well, if the deep-space patrols haven't spotted them, we still
have a little time.

APOLLO
But we have to use that time wisely. I recommend we bring the
Galactica up to alert condition yellow. We need to make sure all
our warriors are close to their Vipers.

TIGH
Agreed. Gather the pilots and inform them of the situation.

Starbuck and Apollo nod, and then turn and go to inform the pilots.

(EXT FULL SHOT SPACE FREIGHTER ASTRADON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CORRIDOR RAIZOR)
Raizor is upset. There are several other boys around him that are 
apprehensive. They have not been able to find Badjer and Amaranth

RAIZOR
Fools! Idiots! They could not have left this freighter. Now 
find them, or you'll be the ones who will suffer. Go!

The boys scurry in different directions, and Raizor follows with a 
slight limp. The camera pans back, and then pans forward again,
centering on some ducts near the holds ceiling.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE AMARANTH)
Amaranth and Badjer have been watching through grille work in the air ducts.

BADJER
(beat) You know, we can't hide from them for ever.

AMARANTH
(casual) Well, you'll just have to talk to ship security then, won't you?

BADJER
(beat) I already did. Seems that there's nothing they can do.

AMARANTH
Are you surprised?

BADJER
Well, (beat) yes.

AMARANTH
(exasperated) You're so naive! I can't believe you helped me escape 
from them.

BADJER
It was the right thing to do! (beat) I just don't know what 
the right thing is to do now.

AMARANTH
(beat) Examine your options, med-tech. That is what they
taught us warrior candidates.

BADJER
You want to be a warrior?

AMARANTH
Yes. (beat) But I failed to make the final cut. It was supposed 
to be my way out of here, but all the candidates from this ship
had friends aboard the Galactica, or were able to bribe the 
examination board.

BADJER
It doesn't work that way...

AMARANTH
Yes it does! I finished first in over half of the placement tests
candidates had to take, but that wasn't good enough?

BADJER
(beat) I'm sorry.

AMARANTH
Don't be sorry. It's just the way things are... The way they've 
become. Look at them as hurdles that must be overcome.

BADJER
So how do you plan to overcome these hurdles?

AMARANTH
(beat) I have a plan. Follow me.

Amaranth begins to crawl down the duct works, and Badjer follows.

(EXT AERIAL SHOT MARS BASE DAY (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CONTROL CENTER MARS BASE COMM OFFICER)
The communications officer is listening to his head phones.

COMM OFFICER
Understood.

He gets up and looks around. He sees Captain Sheba talking with
other warriors. He gets up and walks over to her.

COMM OFFICER
Captain Sheba, urgent message from the Galactica. You are to return 
to the Galactica with all elements of your squadron at once.

SHEBA
Tell the Galactica that I need just a few more hours to prepare the 
base for use.

COMM OFFICER
Ma'am, the Galactica has gone to yellow alert. 

SHEBA
(surprised) Why have they gone to alert status?

COMM OFFICER
I wasn't told. They said all ship based pilots and Vipers were to 
return at once.

SHEBA
I understand. (to other officers) You know what still has to be 
done to get this base operational. Do so quickly. We
may not have much time. Bojay, you're with me. Let's get to work.

Sheba and Bojay turn and leave. The base officers disperse too.

(EXT SPACE VIPER PATROL - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - STATIONARY)
Boomer looks down at his instruments.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
The scanner spikes again, stronger than before.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - STATIONARY)
BOOMER
You read that, Jolly.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - STATIONARY)
JOLLY
L-band, stronger than before.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - STATIONARY)
BOOMER
Stay awake, I think we have company coming.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY - STATIONARY)
JOLLY
I'm not sleepy or bored, Boomer.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - STATIONARY)

BOOMER
I didn't think you would be.

(EXT SPACE VIPER PATROL - STATIONARY)

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
Patrol to Galactica.

(EXT SPACE VIPERS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER SHEBA)
SHEBA
Blue squadron leader to Galactica, two requesting permission to land.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE RIGEL)
RIGEL
Blue squadron leader, permission to land granted, landing bay alpha.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER SHEBA)
Sheba concentrates on her approach.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA LANDING BAY (P.O.V. SHEBA) (OPTICAL))

(INT LONG SHOT LANDING BAY VIPERS  (OPTICAL))
The first Viper is landing, with the second just approaching the bay.

(INT LONG SHOT VIPER SHEBA)
The canopy of Sheba's Viper is up, and she is getting out of the
craft. Apollo and Starbuck are just stepping off of the turbo-lift.
They walk up to Sheba.

SHEBA
Why is the fleet on alert?

Bojay joins the group.

STARBUCK
Not the whole fleet, just the Galactica.

APOLLO
Commander Tigh is going to brief all Viper pilots in the ready room.

BOJAY
If we're invited to a party, I say, 'let's go'.

They all turn and head for the turbo-lift.

(EXT FULL SHOT SPACE FREIGHTER ASTRADON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE AMARANTH)
Amaranth and Badger are still crawling through the ducts. She is
holding up better than he is. Fatigued, Badjer stops.

BADJER
Wait. (beat) Hey, stop for a moment.

Amaranth stops and looks back at him. She turns forward, wanting to
continue, but hesitates. She turns and crawls toward Badjer.

AMARANTH
We can't stop long.

BADJER
Where are we going to?

AMARANTH
(beat) The docking bay.

BADJER
(puzzled) Why there?

AMARANTH
(slight irritation) We have to get off this ship. Shuttles are the only way.

BADJER
Are you talking about stowing away?

AMARANTH
That or we could just steal one.

BADJER
That's crazy!

AMARANTH
Staying on this ship would not be a sane move.

BADJER
We'll end up on the prison barge!

AMARANTH
We're already on a prison barge! The only difference is we'd live
longer on the real prison barge than this one!

The arguments stops for a moment. Badjer silently concedes the point
to Amaranth. She seems embarrassed for yelling, but only for a second.

AMARANTH
Let's keep moving.

BADJER
(beat) OK. 

She just starts to move when Badjer speaks again.

BADJER
How do you know how to get to the docking bay.

AMARANTH
I use to play in these ducts as a child. (beat) (quietly) I've planning 
this escape since I was a little girl. Life here has never been easy or fun.

They look at each other for a moment. Amaranth breaks the stare and
continues to crawl on. Badjer follows.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT FULL SHOT READY ROOM TIGH)
Tigh is at the front of the room, waiting. Apollo, Starbuck, Sheba
and Bojay enter the room. Sheba and Bojay take seats, while Apollo
and Starbuck stand off to Tigh's side.

TIGH
(beat) Pilots, as you know, the Galactica is on yellow alert. A
deep space patrol commanded by Captain Boomer has picked up
some unusual signals, which they assume to be Cylon.

The pilots exchange looks of surprise, and disappointment.

SHEBA
Are they searching for the source of those signals?

TIGH
Not directly. Boomer and Jolly are waiting near the asteroid belt just 
outside the solar system. The signals seem to on the same path that we
followed into system. They hope to make visual contact with the Cylons, 
while avoiding detection by the Cylons.

BOJAY
There's a lot of space out there Commander. Isn't a visual 
contact a big gamble?

TIGH
There is a good reason for doing it this way, and the gamble is only a 
small one. They will be able to tell if the source of those signals get 
past them and are approaching the Galactica. Now listen carefully. If it 
is a Cylon patrol, this is what we want you to do...

(EXT SPACE VIPER PATROL - STATIONARY (OPTICAL))
The Vipers have increased the area they can watch by separating.
They are motionless, hiding near debris that makes up the asteroid belt.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER)
BOOMER
Jolly, you still awake?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY)
JOLLY
I'm awake, Boomer. Where are those Cylons we keep looking for?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER)
BOOMER
Oh, they're out there, all right. They keep scanning just long enough 
make sure no one's approaching them, and they're hoping no one is 
watching for their signal. They won't be looking for Vipers just 
sitting out in the middle...

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
(urgent, interrupting Boomer) Boomer! Boomer! I think I see something.

BOOMER
Describe it, Jolly.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER JOLLY)
Jolly looks anxious, peering out into space.

(EXT LONG SHOT SPACE (P.O.V. JOLLY))
In the distance a small group of stars seems to be blinking and moving. 

JOLLY (V.O.)
It looks like a small group of stars, except they're moving.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER)

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
I can't be sure, but I think there must be about a dozen of
them. Must be sunlight reflecting off their hulls.

BOOMER
(beat) Cylons were always fools for shiny metal. Good work, Jolly. 
Time to let the Galactica know they'll have guests to entertain.

(EXT FULL SHOT SPACE FREIGHTER ASTRADON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE AMARANTH)
Amaranth is crawling through the ducts with Badjer not far behind.
She comes to some grille work, looks through it, and moves into
a sitting position. Badjer moves up to her position and looks through
the grille work too.

(INT FULL SHOT DOCKING BAY SHUTTLE (OPTICAL))
Looking down, a shuttle craft can be seen, with people moving
supplies out of it.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE BADJER)
Badjer looks puzzled.

BADJER
Is this it?

AMARANTH
Yes, this is the docking bay.

BADJER
So now what?

AMARANTH
We wait for our chance to get into it.

BADJER
(confused) Get into it? how do we get down to it.

AMARANTH
Through here. (pointing to the grille) We'll jump down.

BADJER
(moan)

AMARANTH
It will work! You can jump. Can't you?

BADJER
The jumping part will work. We are certainly high enough up to make it one
hell of a jump. It's the rest of this plan that's lost touch with reality.

AMARANTH
Reality is back that way wanting to do medical experiments on you.

Badjer sighs. These actions, though stupid, are the best choice.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT READY ROOM TIGH)

Tigh is just entering the ready room. All the pilots are still there,
just waiting.

TIGH
We have just received a report that Cylons are entering the system. 
A patrol in force of a dozen Raiders. Blue squadron will engage them 
as planned, all other squadrons will remain battle ready. (beat) Take 
no unnecessary risks. You launch in ten minutes. Dismissed.

All the pilots stand up and exit. Apollo is watching Sheba closely.
Apollo exchanges a look with Starbuck.

APOLLO
I'll be right back.

Apollo leaves, going after Sheba. Tigh and Starbuck exchange looks,
and Starbuck gives his head a small shake and smiles.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT TURBO-LIFT SHEBA)
Sheba steps on to the turbo-lift with several other warriors. At the last 
second Apollo steps on to turbo-lift himself. Sheba seems surprised that 
he is going down to the launch bays, and Apollo looks uncomfortable. 

SHEBA
Do you want to go the launch bays, Apollo?

APOLLO
Ah, yes. (beat) Tigh just wanted me to visually inspect the 
Vipers prior to launch.

Apollo's answer was not given firmly, and as the turbo-lift goes
down, Sheba suspects that there is something he isn't saying.
She doesn't pry. She is enjoying his uneasiness.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT LAUNCH BAY APOLLO)
The Turbo lift reaches the launch bay and the warriors head to their
Vipers. Apollo stops Sheba and allows the other warriors to pass
before speaking to her at length.

APOLLO
Captain Sheba, just a moment.

Sheba is still enjoying Apollo's discomfort, and doesn't make it
easier for him.

SHEBA
Yes, Colonel Apollo?

APOLLO
(beat) Sheba, (beat beat) I just wanted to say, (beat) for some time, 
(beat) I...

SHEBA
(beat) (teasingly) Want to check my Viper?

APOLLO
No! That's not what I want to say.

SHEBA
Apollo, just say what you want to say.

APOLLO
Sheba, (beat) be careful out there.

SHEBA
(surprised, disappointed) Be careful? That's what you wanted to tell me? 

APOLLO
Well...

SHEBA
I have not forgotten how to fly or fight. I am the...

APOLLO
No no no! Sheba! It's not that. It's just, well, something that
I should have said jahrens ago.

SHEBA
Years, Colonel. We are to use the measures of the 13th tribe, to make 
our eventual contact with them go without misunderstandings or confusion.

APOLLO
I know, but I don't care about that. I care about you. I, (beat) I'm 
afraid of losing you now. I love you.

SHEBA
Apollo, now is not a good time.

APOLLO
There has never been a good time. There have always been problems, crises, 
and needs that could not be ignored. We've made it farther than anyone 
thought we had a chance to, except for my father. (beat) To get this far 
has had a terrible cost, and I've lost almost everyone I love to get here. 
I don't want to lose you.

SHEBA
I've lost many that I love too. We all have. But we came here so we 
wouldn't lose everything. We haven't  come this far for nothing. (beat) 
Most of our labors are behind us. (beat) We only have a couple more things
to finish up, and then our lives will be our own again.

APOLLO
(beat) I wanted to make sure you knew.

SHEBA
(beat) OK. But I'll want to hear this, and more, again 
later, when our work is done.

APOLLO
(beat) Promised.

SHEBA
(beat) (small smile) You know, Colonel, a girl has to be leery
if it takes a boy 17 years to make his feelings known.

APOLLO
I did approached you in the past, but each time I did it
seemed like you knew, and you got distant... cold.

Sheba has a slight pained look.

SHEBA
(beat) Finding Earth has always been our goal. Earth is where it all was 
to end. I don't want it to end here Apollo. My dream has been to go back. 
To find out... to know for sure what happened to my father. I don't 
believe he's dead.

APOLLO
If anyone could cheat death and escape the Cylons, Cain could.

SHEBA
That's right. But if I became too involved here, I could never go back.

APOLLO
Sheba...

SHEBA
No! No Apollo. You did everything right. I didn't want to lose
myself here. (beat) I love you too.

They stand silent, looking at each other for a moment. Apollo moves
forward, as if to embrace or kiss Sheba, but she pulls back at the last 
moment. The magic fades as the needs of the moment come back to focus.

SHEBA
I have a mission to perform.

APOLLO
I need to get back to the bridge.

The step back and slowly move away from each other. The mood seems ominous.

(EXT FULL SHOT SPACE FREIGHTER ASTRADON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE AMARANTH)
Amaranth and Badger are still waiting for a chance to escape.

(INT FULL SHOT DOCKING BAY SHUTTLE (OPTICAL))
Boxes are still being unloaded from the shuttle.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE AMARANTH)
BADJER
People are still down there?

AMARANTH
I've never seen them this busy.

BADJER
(beat beat) What's your name?

AMARANTH
(smile) I was wondering if you were ever going to ask. (beat) Amaranth.

BADJER
Pretty name.

AMARANTH
Thanks.

They fall into an awkward silence. Awkward more for Badjer than Amaranth. 

BADJER
Isn't that the name for a flower from Kobol?

Amaranth is about to speak but she stops. She tilts her head as if
listening to something.

BADJER
I said isn't that the name...

AMARANTH
(hushed, strong) Quiet!

Distant noises of Raizor's troop moving through the dust works can
be heard.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE OMEGA)
Omega is looking down at a scanner in front of him.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
A dozen triangular shapes are on the top edge of the scanner. They
are descending down toward the center of the screen.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE OMEGA)
OMEGA
(to Tigh) Sir, scanners show a group of ships approaching the Galactica.

TIGH
Cylon?

OMEGA
Yes. Battle computer identifies them as Raiders.

TIGH
What is the status of Blue Leader's flight?

Apollo, who is standing near by, remains silent, yet attentive.

OMEGA
Her flight path will avoid contact with the Raiders.

TIGH
Good. Order the rest of Blue Squadron to launch and engage the Cylons.

OMEGA
Yes sir. (into microphone) Launch Blue Squadron.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT LAUNCH CONTROL RIGEL)
RIGEL
Launch control to Blue Squadron Vipers, you are cleared to launch.

(INT FULL SHOT LAUNCH BAYS (OPTICAL))
All Vipers are standing by to launch.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOJAY)
BOJAY
Blue Squadron is launching.

(MULTIPLE SHOTS VIPERS LAUNCHING (OPTICAL))
Squadron launches. Shots include close ups of pilots, Vipers
accelerating down launch tubes, inserts of thruster buttons being
engaged, and exterior shots of Vipers entering space.

(EXT SPACE BLUE SQUADRON - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
The Vipers of the Blue Squadron are flying in formation to meet the Cylons.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE STARBUCK)
Starbuck is standing near Tigh and Apollo, watching how the launch
is progressing. Cassiopeia enters and calls to him.

CASSIOPEIA
Starbuck! Starbuck, is it true? The Cylons have found us.

Starbuck moves away from Tigh and Apollo to talk to Cassiopeia.

STARBUCK
Yes, but we aren't in immediate danger. We knew they were coming
and we're ready for them.

CASSIOPEIA
You're ready for them? Since when do battles go as planned?

STARBUCK
Cassi, it's only a small patrol. We aren't in any real danger.

CASSIOPEIA
You know as well as I do that the Cylons wouldn't be here
with only a small patrol. And battles always have casualties.

STARBUCK
We don't what the Cylons have out there, but we're going to find out. 
And the pilots are ready for this. They couldn't be better trained.

Cassiopeia just looks at Starbuck, slightly upset because she knows
pilots will always be hurt, no matter how well they're trained.

OMEGA
Blue Squadron away, and on an intercept vector with the Cylons.

TIGH
Bring the Galactica to red alert.

OMEGA
Bring the fleet to alert too?

TIGH
No. The Cylons shouldn't approach the civilian ships.

(INSERT SHOT ALERT BUTTON)
The alarm button is pushed.

(INT FULL SHOT BRIDGE ALERT (OPTICAL))
The lights change to red, and personnel run to man their battle stations.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE CASSIOPEIA)
A look of dread comes over Cassiopeia. She does not like the alert.

CASSIOPEIA
Excuse me. I'm going to be needed in the infirmary.

She turns and leaves. He wants to say something to ease her anger,
but he knows there's nothing that can be said.

(EXT SPACE CYLON PATROL (OPTICAL))
A dozen or more Cylon Raiders are flying in formation.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CREW)
Three Cylons are at the controls

CYLON ONE
A battlestar and the colonial fleet have been detected.

CYLON COMMANDER
Is the battlestar the Galactica?

CYLON ONE
Affirmative. All human ships are holding position near the fourth planet 
of this solar system. The Galactica is moving forward to meet our
patrol. Colonial Vipers have been launched.

CYLON COMMANDER
Communication signals have been from the third planet, not the fourth 
planet. Order half of the patrol to examine the third planet. The other 
half is to examine the colonial fleet.

CYLON TWO
By your command.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE OMEGA)
OMEGA
(to Tigh) Sir, the Cylon patrol is altering course.

TIGH
Where are the heading.

OMEGA
They have split into two flights. One is heading towards the fleet,
the other appears to be going towards Earth.

TIGH
Launch all squadrons to intercept.

APOLLO
What are they up to?

STARBUCK
They're looking for something, but it's not the Galactica.

APOLLO
They want to know how strong we are before they attack.

STARBUCK
Ah, Commander, it might be time to bring the fleet to alert.

TIGH
(to Omega) Warn the fleet of the attack.

(EXT FULL SHOT SPACE FREIGHTER ASTRADON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE AMARANTH)
The sound of the following boys in getting louder. Amaranth and
Badjer look through the grille work again to see if they can make
their run for the shuttle.

(INT FULL SHOT DOCKING BAY SHUTTLE (OPTICAL))
The workers are still unloading the shuttle. They have just lifted a very 
large and heavy box that requires all of them to move it.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CRAWL SPACE PURSUERS)
The first of three boys is able to peer down the crawl space where
Amaranth and Badjer have stopped. He sees them.

BOY
They're here! They're here!

Badjer and Amaranth look at each other and know they have to try now. 
They put their feet up and kick out the grille work. They then move to 
jump through the opening. The pursuing boys are not far away from them.

(INT FULL SHOT DOCKING BAY AMARANTH)
Amaranth and Badjer land on the floor, but are quickly up on there
feet and running to the shuttle. One of the workers sees them as they
get near the shuttle and yells.

WORKER
Hey! Hey you! Stop.

The first of the pursuing boys falls to the floor. One of the workers 
lets go of the crate, and the other three workers struggle to let their 
load fall. The battle klaxon begins to ring, to add to the confusion. 
Amaranth is the first into the shuttle. Badjer closes the door behind 
himself and just ahead of the pursuing worker. The other workers are 
struggling with the three boys from Raizor's troop.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
Amaranth is at the controls. Badjer approaches from the back and
gets into the copilots seat.

BADJER
I think we're safe.

AMARANTH
Not until we're off this ship.

(EXT SPACE FLEET (OPTICAL))
Among the ships of the fleet Cylon Raiders and Colonial Vipers are
chasing each other and firing randomly.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE GALACTICA TIGH)
OMEGA
Green and Yellow Squadrons are in pursuit of earthbound Cylons. Red 
and Blue are engaging the Raiders that flew into the fleet.

TIGH
This is unlike any attack tactic that the Cylons have tried in the past.

APOLLO
I think Starbuck was right. I think they're probing us to see if we have 
been reinforced in anyway by Earth.

TIGH
But by this time they must have examined the communication signals from 
Earth as we have. It's obvious Earth's technology is not a serious threat.

STARBUCK
Maybe the Cylons suspect it was a deception to lure them in.

Tigh and Apollo exchange looks. They nod in agreement.

STARBUCK
Too bad years ago we didn't send bogus Earth signals back at the
Cylons showing a fleet of a hundred battlestars. Maybe we
could have scared them away for a while.

APOLLO
Starbuck, why didn't you come up with that idea earlier?

STARBUCK
Guess I'm just at my best under pressure.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
Amaranth adjust some of the controls, grabs the joy stick, leans
back into the seat, and looks over at Badjer.

AMARANTH
Hold on.

(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
A woman's hand on a joystick is shown pressing a thruster button.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
Badjer and Amaranth appeared to be pushed back into their seats due
to thrust.

(EXT FULL SHOT SPACE ASTRADON)
The shuttle is seen flying clear of the freighter.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
Amaranth and Badjer are still flying the shuttle away from the Astradon. 
The fly a bit further before they feel comfortable about their escape. 
After a moment, they laugh to release nervous tension.

AMARANTH
So, we have a couple choices here. What sounds better; Earth
or the prison barge?

Badjer looks as if he wants to speak, but says nothing. Amaranth
is not sure if he heard her.

AMARANTH
Did you hear what I said? This does not require any thought.

BADJER
Amaranth, what's that?

AMARANTH
What's what?

BADJER
That there. (pointing ahead)

(EXT SPACE FLEET BATTLE (OPTICAL) (P.O.V. BADJER))
Ahead, among other ships in the fleet, the running fight between the 
Vipers and the Raiders can be seen. It is moving towards the shuttle.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
She seems stunned for a moment, and then she moves the controls of 
the shuttle ostensibly. She is attempting to avoid the fight.

BADJER
(beat beat) What's going on here?

AMARANTH
Cylon attack. Just hold on.

Amaranth continues to control the ship away from the fight.

(EXT SPACE RAIDER(OPTICAL))
The Raider is trying to elude a pursuing Viper. Near misses from Viper's 
laser lace themselves around the Raider, all missing the target.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CREW)
CYLON ONE
All these ships originated from their lost colonies. Report that
to the basestars. Target fire to the human ships.

(EXT SPACE SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) (P.O.V. CYLONS))
The shuttle is the ship closest and most directly in front of the
Raider. It seems larger than the surrounding freighters.

(INT CLOSE SHOT RAIDER CYLON THREE)
CYLON THREE
By your command.

(INSERT SHOT CYLON HAND CONTROLS)
The Cylon fires the Raider's lasers.

(EXT FULL SHOT RAIDER AND SHUTTLE)
The blast from the Raider hits near the rear of the shuttle. Blasts
from the pursuing Viper cause the Raider to veer away from the shuttle.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
AMARANTH
We've been hit!

(INSERT SHOT JUNCTION BOX)
A junction box in the rear of the shuttle has sparks and smoke
seeping out of it.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE BADJER)
BADJER
Is it bad?

AMARANTH
It could always be worse.

BADJER
What sort of answer is that?

AMARANTH
It's an answer that shouldn't amplify your fears.

BADJER
Your answer didn't work.

AMARANTH
I've lost directional thrusters. (beat) Take the controls.

BADJER
What should I do with them?

AMARANTH
You can't do anything with them. That's why I trust you with them.

BADJER
What are you going to do?

AMARANTH
I'm going to try to fix them.

BADJER
Can you do that?

AMARANTH
Shut up with the questions already!

Badjer stays seated at the copilot position while Amaranth gets up
and moves to the back of the shuttle.

BADJER
(to himself) I don't like how she answers questions.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
TIGH
(to Starbuck and Apollo) The Cylons are not withdrawing.

APOLLO
We can't carry through with the original plan.

TIGH
We have to find out how many basestars the Cylons have. 

APOLLO
Searching them out without using the retreating Cylons
would expose any pilot to too great a risk.

TIGH
Every pilot aloft is at risk!

APOLLO
Sir, I just want to say...

Starbuck steps in between Tigh and Apollo. Starbuck works at
calming Apollo down.

STARBUCK
Apollo, Apollo, Apollo. (forceful) Calm down.

APOLLO
Calm down?

STARBUCK
Yes! You're still a bridge officer! There's a battle going on! Look, 
(beat) (subdued determination) I know how you feel about Sheba, OK. 
Except for you, no one wants to see her come back safely more than me. 
But we aren't going to help her by losing our heads.

Apollo is still upset, but he realizes Starbuck is right.

STARBUCK
Don't worry. I'll come up with a plan.

(EXT SPACE FLEET (OPTICAL))
The battle is still going on.

(EXT MULTIPLE SHOTS BATTLE)
As the battle continues between the Vipers and the Raiders, it is 
obvious that the Cylons are losing a war of attrition. More and more 
Vipers are seen pursing and destroying fewer and fewer
Raiders. Bojay destroys the last remaining Raider.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOJAY - TRAVELING)
BOJAY
Did anyone see any Raiders peal back to deep space?

VOICE ONE (COMM VOICE)
None of them retreated.

VOICE TWO (COMM VOICE)
They just kept attacking the fleet.

BOJAY
(to himself) Frack. (to the squadron) Blue Squadron, head
back to the Galactica.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Tigh faces Apollo, Starbuck is standing off to the side. Tigh is
not enjoying saying what he has to say.

TIGH
Apollo, none of the Cylon Raiders disengaged and returned to their
basestars. I know how you feel, but we have no choice but to send Sheba 
out to scan for those basestars. I wish she had retreating Cylons to 
camouflage her scanning, but it isn't to be. (beat) I'm sorry, Apollo.

APOLLO
She's knows the need to do this better than anyone. (beat) Excuse me.

Apollo turns and leaves the bridge. Tigh and Starbuck watch silently
as Apollo leaves. Tigh turns to Omega to issue the order to Sheba, 
but Starbuck touches his arm to stop him before he completes the order.

TIGH
(to Omega) Contact Blue Leader. Tell her that she is...

STARBUCK
Commander, just a moment. I was thinking...

TIGH
(beat) Yes?

Starbuck smiles.

(EXT SPACE SHUTTLE - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))

The shuttle is in space with the fleet either far off in the distance 
or not even in sight.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE BADJER)
Badjer is still in the copilots seat. He wiggles the controls, but
there is no response. This makes him a little anxious. He calls
out to Amaranth over his shoulder.

BADJER
The controls still aren't doing a thing.

Amaranth is standing in front of another junction box. She pulls a
component out of the junction box. Regular lights go off, and red
emergency lighting comes on.

BADJER
What happened?

Amaranth is taking the component to the burned-out junction box.

AMARANTH
I had to cannibalize another system for a part. We should be
able to control our flight if this works.

She inserts the component, and the shuttle immediately veers 
violently. She is thrown off her feet, and narrowly misses going
head first into a bulkhead.

BADJER
It works!

Amaranth, not happy with being thrown to the floor, is tempted to yell 
at Badjer, but she refrains. She gets up and walks back to the cockpit, 
getting back into the pilot's seat. She tests the controls for a moment.

AMARANTH
It works, but not real well. I don't think we could dock with
another ship using these controls.

BADJER
So what do we do?

AMARANTH
Well have to land. We might be able to reach the Mars base.

They remain silent for a few moment, contemplating.

BADJER
What did you do to regain flight control.

AMARANTH
Had to take a part from another system.

BADJER
(beat beat) Which system?

AMARANTH
(beat) Don't talk so much. And try to breath more slowly and shallowly.

Badjer doesn't want to believe what he knows to be true. He moans.

BADJER
Nooooo.

AMARANTH
(seriously) Don't talk!

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT INFIRMARY CASSIOPEIA)
Cassiopeia is tending to the wounded, who are mostly civilian. Other
med-techs are moving people around. Starbuck walks in and goes to 
Cassiopeia.

STARBUCK
How are the wounded?

CASSIOPEIA
(slight anger) How did you expect? 

STARBUCK
Cassi, I didn't invite the Cylons here.

CASSIOPEIA
(beat) I'm Sorry. In answer to your question, we haven't seen
any serious injuries,... yet. Mostly civilians got hurt.

STARBUCK
Things didn't go as planned.

CASSIOPEIA
(slight sarcasm) Imagine that happening during a battle.

STARBUCK
Well, someday a battle will go as planned and I hope to be there to see it.

CASSIOPEIA
Even if it's the Cylons that do the planning.

STARBUCK
You know, I can still remember when you were a pessimist.

His humor is rewarded by a slight smile from Cassiopeia.

STARBUCK
I just came to tell you that Tigh, Apollo and I have been
summoned to a special meeting of the Council aboard the Rising Star.

CASSIOPEIA
Is the battle over?

STARBUCK
Well, almost. Around here it is. I just wanted to check on you and let 
you know what's happening. (beat) I'll let you know when we get back.

It seems like an awkward moment, and Cassiopeia doesn't say anything.
Starbuck takes a few steps back and turns to leave. Then Cassiopeia speaks.

CASSIOPEIA
Starbuck, (beat) take care of yourself.

STARBUCK
(beat) I always do. (smiles)

(EXT SPACE BASESTAR (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR COMMAND CENTER CENTURION)
Several Cylons are at different stations. The Centurion approaches
one and stops.

CENTURION
(to Cylon One) Report.

CYLON ONE
A craft is moving toward our position.

CENTURION
Is it human?

CYLON ONE
High probability it is one of our Raiders.

CENTURION
Has there been communication with the craft?

CYLON ONE
Negative. Probability is based on scanning emissions. It is
probing using our bandwidths.

CENTURION
The humans could duplicate our scanning emissions.

CYLON ONE
Affirmative. In addition to scanning emissions we have
intercepted transmissions between pursuing Vipers.

CENTURION
(beat) Project the Viper transmissions.

Cylon One operates some controls. Audio sound is played into the room.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
I can see that Cylon. He's just ahead of us.

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
Captain, fuel is critical. We've been on battle thrusters for too long.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
I hit him. He's damaged. We can catch him.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA)

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
But we still have to make it back to the Galactica.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Tigh, Starbuck, and Omega are all listening to the exchange. Apollo
enters the bridge and joins the group.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
If we have to we can conserve power by drifting after thrusts.

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
And what if they send a patrol to aid that Raider. What if it's a 
trap? We can't drift back to the Galactica with Cylons shooting at us.

TIGH
They still haven't located the basestars.

STARBUCK
They have to be close.

TIGH
Captain, that is what worries me.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
Lieutenant, I'm am going to kill that Raider now when it's crippled 
instead of waiting to take it on again when it's repaired.

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
I won't leave you, sir, but we have to be a hell of a lot closer
to the Cylons than to the Galactica.

APOLLO
I'm worried they're acting less and actually speaking the truth.

(EXT SPACE BASESTARS (OPTICAL))
Two basestars are shown in a stationary position.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
I am almost within firing range of that Cylon. We'll be heading
home in seconds.

(INT FULL SHOT CYLON COMMAND CHAMBER LUCIFER)
The Centurion enters the large room where Lucifer sits high above
the floor. Lucifer, seated, turns toward the Centurion.

CENTURION
By your command.

LUCIFER
Report.

CENTURION
One of our Raiders is attempting to return.

LUCIFER
Are you sure it is one of our crafts?

CENTURION
Very high probability. Two Colonial Vipers are in pursuit.
Should a patrol be ordered out to assist the craft?

LUCIFER
No. We gained the information about the human fleet that we needed 
to know. Sending a patrol to aid the craft could help the humans 
determine our position, which would not be beneficial to us. Besides, 
our patrol was ordered not to return.

CENTURION
By your command.

The Centurion turns and leaves the room. Lucifer's chair turns too.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
We're too far from home, Captain.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
They are all listening to the exchange.

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
We need to turn back.

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
Got him! Chalk up a kill.

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
Good. I'm happy for you. Can we go now?

BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
We can go home and sit. I have a kill to celebrate. Number four. 

JOLLY (COMM VOICE)
Four kills. I look forward to sitting down back at the 
Galactica than sitting here listening about your four kills.

TIGH
(to Omega) Turn off audio. (to Apollo and Starbuck) You heard their report.

APOLLO
Four kills. Four killers. Four Cylon basestars.

STARBUCK
The good news  is they're just sitting out there.

APOLLO
They won't sit there indefinitely.

OMEGA
(to Tigh) Sir, the Council requests to know when you will be arriving.

TIGH
Tell them we're on our way. 

STARBUCK
We?

TIGH
I'm not going to face the Council alone. Besides, (beat)
(smile) it was your plan, Captain.

Tigh walks away. Starbuck does not smile. Apollo smiles.

(EXT SPACE SHUTTLE MARS'S MOON (OPTICAL))
The shuttle is traveling through space, heading towards on of
the moons of Mars.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
Amaranth is still at the flight controls. She looks serious and concerned.

AMARANTH
I've decided to land on the near moon. The sooner we land, the
sooner we can get bio-systems working again.

BADJER
And then get our communications equipment repaired.

AMARANTH
Sure. (beat) We've been pretty lucky so far.

Slowly, Badjer's expression almost turns into a sneer.

BADJER
What's a bad luck streak like around you.

AMARANTH
I've never had one.

Amaranth remains occupied flying the shuttle. After a moment, she
does a double take at one section of the control panel.

(INSERT SHOT LANDING TARGETER)
A circular field of small lights, green in the center, yellow and
red extending outwards, caught Amaranth's attention. Some of the
yellow lights are glowing, but very dimly.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
Amaranth moves the flight controls, watching the landing targeter.

(INSERT SHOT LANDING TARGETER)
The small field of dimly lit bulbs begins to move out of the yellow
and in to the green.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE AMARANTH)
AMARANTH
Landing beacon! There's a landing beacon down there.

BADJER
Down where?

AMARANTH
Down there! The near moon.

BADJER
How could there be a landing beacon there.

AMARANTH
Must have been set up by our people building the base.

BADJER
The base is on the planet, not the moon.

AMARANTH
Maybe it is for emergencies.

BADJER
We've met that qualification.

AMARANTH
I'm going to land. And you better apologize about that 
remark you made concerning my luck.

Badjer isn't ready to make an apology.

(EXT/INT SPACE/MOON/SHUTTLE MULTIPLE SHOTS)
Multiple shots show the shuttle in space, nearing the moon, maneuvering. 
Shots also show Amaranth, Badjer, and the landing targeter.

(EXT FULL SHOT MOON (P.O.V. BEHIND SHUTTLE PILOTS))
The landing targeter on the control panel, still glowing dimly,
can be seen, and through the windshield the landing area on
the moon can also be seen. At first glance, it appears mountainous.

Amaranth becomes concerned.

BADJER
Where do we land?

AMARANTH
(beat) I don't know. The landing targeter says we are centered in
a landing path, but instead of an area to land in, I see a mountain.

BADJER
Could something be wrong with the targeter?

AMARANTH
I think there has to be.

BADJER
Let's go somewhere else.

Amaranth tries to move the controls, but with little affect.

AMARANTH
We have to land. Between the damage from the Cylon blast and
gravity, we have no choice.

BADJER
(to himself) This is still better than the freighter. This is still 
better than the freighter.

Amaranth is concerned, but her expression changes, as if she has
figured out the problem. She pushes the control forward.

(EXT FULL SHOT SHUTTLE)
The attitude of the shuttle changes, with it plunging almost
straight down toward the moon.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE BADJER)
BADJER
What are you doing?!

AMARANTH
I've got an idea.

BADJER
Is it based on facts?!

Amaranth doesn't answer. After a few more moments, she pulls back
on the controls to level out the shuttle. The attitude seems to change.

(EXT MOON SHUTTLE (OPTICAL))
The shuttle, which was on a course to plunge into the surface, begins 
to flatten out. A new angle from behind shows it entering into
what appears to be a giant cavern.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE BADJER)
BADJER
What is this?

AMARANTH
A cavern. They built the landing way into the planet, so it's 
like a landing bay on a battlestar.

Badjer continues to stare out the windshield.

(EXT FULL SHOT CAVERN (P.O.V. BADJER))
Badjer focuses on one section of the cavern. What he sees is not
natural rock, but metallic structures. 

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE BADJER)
BADJER
Look over there. (pointing) This isn't a natural cavern.

(EXT FULL SHOT CAVERN (P.O.V. AMARANTH))
Another view of more metallic structures.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SHUTTLE BADJER)
AMARANTH
You're right. (beat) It's huge.

BADJER
Let's land and look for help.

AMARANTH
Aren't you going to ask me, 'What is it?' You've asked about everything else.

BADJER
Which is why I don't think your first correct answer will be about this.

Amaranth ignores Badjer's insult and works the flight controls.

(EXT MOON SHUTTLE (OPTICAL))
Deep within the structure, the shuttle lands. There is a great deal
of dust on the surface. It stops abruptly, looking dead.

(EXT SPACE RISING STAR (OPTICAL))

(INT FULL SHOT COUNCIL CHAMBER)
The Council of Twelve is seated around a large round table. Two black-
dressed security men stand behind the leader of the Council, Pronus. 
Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck enter. Tigh and Apollo take seats opposite 
Pronus, while Starbuck remains standing behind them. All remain silent 
until everyone is seated.

PRONUS
Would the military be so kind as to explain to the Council
the attack which was recently launched against the fleet?

TIGH
It was a Cylon patrol. Our worst fears, that the Cylons have followed 
us to Earth and are not far behind, has been realized.

PRONUS
And how does the military propose to deal with this worst fear?

TIGH
We will determine the Cylons disposition and resources, and 
respond accordingly.

PRONUS
(beat) For many many jahren the military has done our planning,
has determined our course, and to what end?

APOLLO
To find Earth, Pronus. To find the last tribe of humans.

PRONUS
It was the mission of your father, Apollo, and it was a fools errand.

APOLLO
(angered) My father's actions saved our people! He lead us to Earth.

PRONUS
(stern, steady) He lead us to a planet too primitive to assist
us, knowing that the Cylons could also find the way here. 
Adama, who is deserving of great respect for his actions, has only
allowed us to postpone an inevitable course of action.

TIGH
The Galactica is preparing to meet the Cylons in battle. We
shall defeat them or die trying.

PRONUS
I refer to the action often neglected by men of the
military. (beat) It is time to make peace with the Cylons.

APOLLO
Peace!?! How can you suggest peace with the Cylons?!

PRONUS
Because we are not able to dictate terms militarily. We
would never have left the colonies if we could have. So
now, negotiations are the only viable option.

APOLLO
How do you propose to negotiate with the Cylons?

PRONUS
It will become apparent shortly.

Pronus nods to one of the guards, who walks to the door.

STARBUCK
(not too quietly to Tigh and Apollo) Won't they ever learn?

Pronus cast an unpleasant look at Starbuck just as the door opens.
In front of two council security guards walks Baltar. Starbuck, Tigh 
and Apollo are dumbfounded. They break their gaze on Baltar and exchange 
looks between themselves. Tigh and Apollo answer Starbuck's question.

APOLLO
No.

TIGH
They'll never learn.

PRONUS
If the Council would come to order, (beat) I would like to
introduce former Council member Baltar.

APOLLO
There are some on the Council who need no introduction to
the man who betrayed our people.

PRONUS
And the Council now offers him the opportunity to redeem himself.

Apollo wants to say more, but Tigh touches his arm.

TIGH
(facetiously) Let us listen to the wisdom of the Council.

Apollo slowly sits down. Baltar senses an opportunity for himself.
He can't hide his pleasure.

BALTAR
If the council would indulge me?

Baltar looks to Pronus. Pronus nods his approval.

BALTAR
Let me guess. The long journey to Earth has been completed, and it has 
nothing to offer you in your war with the Cylons. The Cylons have also 
found you and Earth. You now have no where to run, and you can not defend 
yourselves if the Cylons attack. (beat) Is this accurate?

PRONUS
(beat) Yes. (beat) We want you to open a dialog with the Cylons.

BALTAR
(beat) They are most reasonable beings, with whom it has always
been an honor to deal.

Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck exchange near nauseas looks.

BALTAR
I would be happy to offer my services in the quest for peace. What do you 
desire from them, and, (beat) what are you willing to offer them for what 
you want?

(EXT FULL SHOT MOON SHUTTLE (OPTICAL))
The shuttle is dark and empty. The hatch is open, and there are footprints 
in the dust leading off in the direction that the shuttle landed in. 
Another angle in that direction reveals Badjer and Amaranth in environment 
suits. In front of them are great slabs, which appear man-made.

(EXT MEDIUM SHOT MOON AMARANTH)
Amaranth and Badjer are struggling to get over a large dust drift.
Beyond the drift, the area is relatively dust free. After helping
Amaranth through the drift, Badjer looks up and sees an overhang
which explains the lack of dust near the great slabs. The are
wearing bio-suits. Badjer has his med-kit and a back-pack.

(INSERT SHOT OVERHANG (OPTICAL))

(EXT MEDIUM SHOT MOON BADJER)
Badger looks down the length of the slab wall. 

BADJER
I think there may be a small door down that way.

AMARANTH
Are you sure?

BADJER
No. But there's no where else to go.

AMARANTH
(beat) Lead on.

And they walk towards the end that hopefully has a door.

(EXT SPACE RISING STAR (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT COUNCIL ROOM BALTAR)
Baltar is seated in front of a communication monitor. The light
and shadows from the monitor play on his face. He finally smiles.

BALTAR
Lucifer! How nice to see you again.

The conversation is viewed from both the Council chamber and Cylon control 
room perspectives with direct and inserted shots of both Baltar and Lucifer.

LUCIFER
Baltar!? I suspected your fellow humans had done grievous harm to
you after all this time.

BALTAR
It has been a long time, indeed. They kept me alive, knowing that I alone 
among them could be trusted by the Cylons should there be need to negotiate.

Apollo and Starbuck exchange sour looks after Baltar's lie.

LUCIFER
Hmmm. I was not aware we had reason to negotiate.

BALTAR
A reason has formed, (beat) for the humans.

LUCIFER
Go on.

BALTAR
Their flight from you has been for naught. The last tribe of
man has been found, but it is a primitive culture, of more
danger to itself than to any of us.

LUCIFER
The information we have gathered does support that conclusion.

BALTAR
The humans of the fleet are not without the capability to defend 
themselves and inflict damage on any attacker. I am told that the 
Galactica is more battle ready than ever before.

LUCIFER
Ready enough to face three basestars in battle.

Starbuck is about to question Lucifer's claim to three basestars, but 
Tigh and Apollo in unison put their hands up to Starbuck to quiet him. 
Members of the Council murmur at learning that the Cylons have such a 
force ready to attack.

BALTAR
Human warriors do not care about odds. They are often most
reckless, and destructive, when they have nothing to lose.

LUCIFER
This has been observed. Please come to the point, Baltar. What
is it you wish?

BALTAR
At this time, a truce, and to agree to discuss means of allowing the 
humans to surrender, insuring that they will not be attacked, and
that destruction can be avoided by both sides.

LUCIFER
You have a plan to insure that the Cylon Empire will never 
need fear humans leaving this solar system and attack us?

BALTAR
The Council has the outline of such a plan, but are still disagreed about 
a few details. If a truce is agreeable, the plan will be finished by this 
time tomorrow, and I could present it to you them.

LUCIFER
I must consult with my other commanders, though I can agree 
to a truce, (beat) for now.

BALTAR
(laughs) Good, old friend. Until tomorrow.

Baltar turns from the communication monitor and faces the Council,
smiling at the job he has done.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR CONTROL ROOM LUCIFER)
LUCIFER
Centurion, send orders to Diablo to take his basestar and circle around 
this solar system as planned. He is to wait at the second planet from 
he sun for orders to attack the planet inhabited by humans. We, along 
with the remaining two basestars, will approach the solar system and
stop within scanning range of long-range patrols from the Galactica.

CENTURION
By your command.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL BADJER - MARS MOON)
Badger and Amaranth are walking close to the slab wall. Just ahead
of them is an area that differs from the slabs, possible a door.

(EXT MEDIUM SHOT SLAB WALL BADJER)
Badjer and Amaranth past the last slab, and a short distance
past it they find what looks to be a door.

BADJER
It looks like a door.

AMARANTH
I think it is.

Amaranth walks up to the door, and reaches out to the side. There are
two buttons there, and she pushes one. The door slides open.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT ANTECHAMBER AMARANTH)
The room is dark, and Amaranth is standing at the doorway. She walks in, 
followed by Badjer. They pull out lights and look around. There is nothing 
in the room accept for a second door leading deeper into the mountain. 
There are another set of buttons, these labeled 'open' and 'close'.

AMARANTH
This must have been built by the lost tribe.

BADJER
Yes. (beat) Want to see what is behind the door.

Amaranth looks nervous, but she smile after thinking about it more. Her 
curiosity wins, and she presses the 'open' button. The outer door closes, 
and except for there lights they are in darkness. They wait for several 
moments, and nothing happens. Above the 'open' button a dim light glows red.

AMARANTH
Suppose it doesn't work?

BADJER
It's been a long time. (beat) Listen.

The faint whir of an air pump can be heard.

AMARANTH
It's an air pump. It must be equalizing pressure with the area beyond here.

BADJER
The pressure seals are still good? Amazing.

The pump whirs for several more moments, then it stops. A light below 
the "open" button glows dimly green. Slowly, with a grating sound, the 
inner door opens. Amaranth and Badjer are viewed from the other side of 
the door as it opens. There is some ambient light in the room, though not 
much. Badjer and Amaranth remain speechless. A parting view from behind 
them shows a large, dark room, filled with numerous large containers.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT LOUNGE SHEBA)
Sheba, Boomer and Jolly are seated at a table, drinking and chatting. 
Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck enter the lounge and join them.
Sheba, Boomer, and Jolly move to get up as Tigh approaches.

TIGH
As you were. I want to commend you for the mission you performed today.

SHEBA
Nothing to it, especially when we saw the basestars weren't
launching to intercept.

JOLLY
The dialog was a little hard to keep up.

BOOMER
Whose idea were those code words, anyway?

Starbuck looks a little guilty, but the point isn't pressed

TIGH
That's not important. What is will be the meeting with senior
officers in one hour.

SHEBA
Is something wrong?

APOLLO
The Council.

STARBUCK
They're ten optimistic men with no concept of history.

TIGH
We can discuss details at the meeting. From now on, all pilots
will be on high alert. No leaves, (tapping a mug) no more ambrosia.

Jolly groans, though not quite quietly enough. Boomer covers him.

BOOMER
Yes sir. Ambrosia is history.

TIGH
(beat) Good. One hour, then.

SHEBA and BOOMER (IN UNISON)
Yes sir.

Tigh and Starbuck turn and leave. Apollo waits for a moment. He looks
as if he has something to say, but he just nods, smiles, and then
follows the others. Sheba smiles slightly, though not with great pleasure.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL - MOON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT ROOM BADJER)
Badjer and Amaranth, still wearing their bio-suits, are slowly
moving into the room and examining the large containers. Amaranth
leans forward to get a better look at one of the chambers, and then
moves backwards. She gasps, and moves to hold Badjer. He holds her
for a moment, and then moves forward, to see what frightened her.

(INSERT SHOT CONTAINER SKELETON)
A glass area allows Badjer to look into the container. It holds a skeleton.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT ROOM BADJER)
Badjer and Amaranth talk quickly. Amaranth is almost frenetic.

AMARANTH
We got to go. We can't stay here.

BADJER
There's nothing to be afraid of.

AMARANTH
No no no! It's a sepulcher! A tomb! Only the dead belong here!

BADJER
Calm down.

AMARANTH
No! We must leave! We've got to go!

BADJER
Amaranth!

Badjer finally grabs her arms and shakes her. She stays away from him for 
a moment, and then embraces him again. He holds her for several seconds 
until she regains her composure. She then lets go of him and steps away.

BADJER
We look around just a little more, in case there is communication 
equipment that we can use to call for help. We won't look long, and 
we'll leave as soon as possible. OK?

AMARANTH
(nods) (beat) OK.

Badjer moves off to examine more containers, while Amaranth stays
near the door. The next container Badjer looks at also holds a corpse
though one not as long dead as the first. The third container holds
what looks to be a man, but there is no sign of decomposition. He
becomes slightly excited. Amaranth, who has been examining her bio-suit, 
makes a discovery also. They don't need their bio-suits.

AMARANTH
Badjer! The atmosphere is OK to breathe.

BADJER
What?

AMARANTH
Suit sensors show the air and pressure in here are good.

BADJER
(almost not listening) Ah, it might be, but don't trust it.

Badjer doesn't break his gaze from the container. Amaranth looks at
the bio-suit sensors again.

AMARANTH
(to herself) I won't be afraid.

Amaranth moves to open her suit to room atmosphere. Badjer isn't
watching her, but instead he discovers concealed controls on the
container. Lights on the panel show it is still functioning.
Amaranth tests the room air, and when satisfied, removes the helmet.

BADJER
They're bio-chambers. They're bio-chambers! Amaranth, look.

Badjer turns towards Amaranth. His expression changes from joy to fear. 

BADJER
Amaranth!

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT READY ROOM TIGH)
Tigh is standing in front of a the senior officers, with Apollo and 
Starbuck standing off to the side. A large model of a Cylon base star 
is on display on a table off to one side, and a map of Earth's solar 
system is behind Tigh. Tigh uses this map as a visual aide.

TIGH
I want all of you to be aware of what is now happening, both in space 
and among our own people. Thanks to Sheba, we were able to gather that 
the Cylons have followed us to Earth in an attack force of four 
basestars. The Council of Twelve believes that a satisfactory solution 
can not be forced by military means, and has requested Baltar to 
negotiate with the Cylons to find a peaceful solution.

BOJAY
After everything that happened before, they want to negotiate
with the Cylons again?

TIGH
Unfortunately, yes. However, this has worked to our favor. The 
Cylons told Baltar that they have only three basestars, and three
basestars have moved within scanning range of our patrols.

SHEBA
What happened to the fourth?

TIGH
We are not certain, but we think we have a good idea.


APOLLO
(using map) The three basestars we know about are here. The fourth, 
we believe, will circle wide around the solar system, approach this 
way under cover of the sun, and position itself to attack Earth, 
probably at the same time the other basestars are attacking our people.

BOJAY
That's just a guess. What makes you think you're right?

APOLLO
It's what they did to us and our colonies at the peace conference.

STARBUCK
The Cylons are not to good at coming up with original ideas.

TIGH
What we have to do is surprise and attack the circling basestar before 
it is in position to attack Earth or attack any of our ships should
they need to flee in this direction.

SHEBA
But we would leave the fleet unprotected.

APOLLO
Only for a short time.

STARBUCK
Plus, if Baltar were to think the Galactica was actually moving to 
defend against these three basestars, and he told them that, they'd 
be likely to wait for the last basestar to move into position.

BOOMER
You're going to risk the fleet on a bluff and a lie.

TIGH
Captain Boomer, good officers and warriors do not bluff or lie!

Starbuck tries to look innocent, but Boomer, in good humor, doesn't buy it.

BOOMER
Right, Commander.

TIGH
Besides, the fleet would face a greater risk if we allowed the
Cylons to determine the battle.

The expressions of the warriors present shows this is true.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT ROOM BADJER)
Scene picks up repeating Badjer's last action.

BADJER
Amaranth!

She is standing near the door, with her helmet off.

AMARANTH
You were wrong, and the sensors were right. The air here is good.

BADJER
Put your helmet back on! Now!

AMARANTH
Why?

BADJER
Contamination protocols! We're on a strange world. We don't know 
why these people were put into bio-chambers.

It dawns on Amaranth that there is a microbial danger, and she puts the 
helmet back on. Badjer goes over to her to expedite the helmets replacement.

AMARANTH
Do you really think the air is dangerous.

BADJER
Until we can determine it's safe, we assume it isn't.

AMARANTH
(beat) What do you think happened to these people.

BADJER
I don't know, but I'm going to find out. This isn't a health 
area, so we have to find one. Even though this happened 
millennia ago, there should still be records. Come on.

They begin to walk through the room. After a few steps, Amaranth,
while looking at a bio-chamber, speaks.

AMARANTH
Badjer, are they really still alive?

BADJER
(beat) Some haven't died yet. (beat) I don't know if they can be revived.

They continue to walk deeper into the complex.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT READY ROOM TIGH)
Tigh and the other warriors are gathered around the table with the model 
of the Cylon basestar. He is discussing the order of engagement with the 
basestar.
 
TIGH
Destroying the circling basestar will not be a victory of consequence if 
it can warn the others of where we are, and that our civilian vessels are 
unprotected. Engaging them on the far side of the sun will make 
communication with the other basestars all but impossible, except for the
circling basestar, which has high-powered, long-range communication 
equipment.

APOLLO
The first priority is to destroy the Cylon communication arrays, at these 
four locations.
   
Apollo points to four areas on the model, spaced ninety degrees apart, 
and alternating upper and lower.
 
SHEBA
How do we get close enough to do that without giving them time to send 
out a warning.

TIGH
This can be done in two parts. We will be between them and the sun. The 
sun will decrees their sensors efficiency, and by imitating solar flares 
common to this star, we can jam their scans without causing much suspicion. 
 
APOLLO
We will also use the two experimental Vipers to make the strafing runs 
on the communication arrays.

BOJAY
The fuel drinkers?

APOLLO
Yes. Those Vipers. They are not much for endurance, but they're fast 
enough to hit the Cylons and before be gone before the Cylons can react.

BOOMER
And who will fly these lightning bolts?
 
STARBUCK
(slightly concealed pride) I'd suggest our best two pilots.

The reference was to himself and Apollo, which the other pilots
take a slight mock offense to.

TIGH
I agree, though we may consider experience in the new Viper over 
actual skills.

A slight slam against Starbuck that removes Starbuck's smile but is
quite pleasing to all the other pilots.

TIGH
Once the arrays are destroyed, we will employ the Ravishol pulsar canon 
against the basestar. We can not afford a war of attrition with our Vipers,
and if the canon works, our odds of winning improve dramatically.
   
SHEBA
Will the canon be ready?

TIGH
Yes, (beat) providing the Cylons are not moving at full speed.
You have your orders. May the Lords of Kobol grant you victory.

The officer briefing is over.
 
(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL - MOON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT STAIRS BADJER)
Badjer and Amaranth have gone deeper into the mysterious complex. They come 
to a moveable stairway, which Badjer moves to ascend without even stopping.

AMARANTH
Wait up. Why are you going this way?

BADJER
We need to find out what happened here.

AMARANTH
What makes you think you know where to go to find that out?

Badjer turns on the steps, and then smiles.

BADJER
You haven't figured out where we're at?

AMARANTH
Some old base, on a moon of Mars.

BADJER
(beat) Come on. I'll explain it as we go. Just don't ask for 'why's'.

Badjer starts to move up the stairs. After a moment Amaranth follows.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA - TRAVELING)

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)      

OMEGA
Moving at flank speed on new course.
   
TIGH
Send a message to Pronus and the Council. We are moving to a better 
defensive position between the Cylons and the fleet. Inform him we 
will not attack the Cylons unless they move on the fleet before a peace
is agreed to. (to Starbuck and Apollo) Just to make it official, you are 
both relieved of bridge duties and assigned to Viper operations until the
conclusion of this engagement. (beat) Good luck to both of you.
 
A very serious moment. Tigh extends his hand to Apollo, who shakes hands 
with Tigh. Tigh then extends his hand to Starbuck, but Starbuck draws back.
 
STARBUCK
Ah, I'm sorry, Commander, but that sounded too much like a 'good-bye' for 
me to be comfortable with it.

TIGH
(beat) Then what would be appropriate, Captain?

STARBUCK
How about us thanking him for allowing our dream to come true.
 
APOLLO
Our dream!?!?
 
STARBUCK
Sure. When you're as good as we are, these are the sort of odds you need 
to prove it.

Though Starbuck spoke with a trace of humor to break the tension,
Tigh and Apollo are dumbfounded that Starbuck could say what he did.
 
TIGH
(beat) Well then, Captain, make my eyes bug out, my jaw hit the deck, and 
prove how grossly I've under-rated your talents for all these many years.

STARBUCK
(smiling) That, Commander, would be a pleasure.
 
Tigh and Starbuck now shake hands.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL - MOON (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT DARK ROOM BADJER)
The room is sick bay. It contains a large number of bio-chambers. Badjer 
moves through the room to a table, with Amaranth close behind. There are 
some papers with notes on the table, but the papers are brittle with age.

AMARANTH
But why would the 13th tribe build a base here.

BADJER
I don't know. Here, hold this light up. Our own legends say that after 
the fleeing of Kobol and founding of the colonies, the people destroyed
almost all of the space travel technology. It was an awful journey, 
probably like what we've lived through. Maybe it was as bad or worse for 
this tribe, and they blamed technology too.

Amaranth is holding the light up, put her arms start dipping.

BADJER
Please, keep the light up high. These old notes are fragile.

Amaranth, holds it up high for a few more moments, but she lets it
fall again as she slowly crumples to the floor.
 
BADJER
Amaranth!

Badjer puts the light on the table and assists Amaranth.

AMARANTH
I don't feel well.

BADJER
Stay still. I'm going to do a bio-scan.

Badjer opens Amaranth's bio-suit. He then goes to his med-kit.
 
 
BADJER
I'll solve this. Don't worry.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT COMMUNICATION MONITOR PRONUS)
Pronus is challenging Tigh and his action to move the Galactica.
 
PRONUS
Return the Galactica to the fleet at once.
   
TIGH
Council leader Pronus, I am exercising my discretionary authority as 
military commander.

PRONUS
The Council does not approve of your actions.
 
TIGH
We have not surrender ourselves yet. Until then, we will take
any action I deem best to insure the safety of the fleet.

PRONUS
Your action will be the next issue that the council reviews.

TIGH
Good. Also consider that in peace, this is likely how things will be. 
Our fleet, Cylons near by, and no battlestar nearby to protect you. 
Include that in you deliberations, councilman.
 
PRONUS
(beat) Enjoy what little time you have left to command, Tigh.

The monitor goes off. Tigh seems pleased with the exchange.
 
TIGH
(to himself) Aggravating you is one of the few pleasures available.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SICK BAY BADJER)
Badjer has numerous instruments for testing out. Amaranth is alive, but 
not conscious. Badjer is waiting for the results of the last test. As 
they come through, he slowly smiles, looking relieved.
 
BADJER
(beat) I don't know if you can still hear me, but I found what's making 
you ill. It's the same virus that made our pilots ill just before the 
fleet found Kobol. More good news is, there is a cure.

Badjer moves away from Amaranth, and begins to look around the room.
He then speaks quietly, to himself.

BADJER
And I can synthesize the cure, if they have the right equipment, (beat) 
and it still works. 

(INT CLOSE UP COMMUNICATION MONITOR LUCIFER)     
LUCIFER
Baltar, your Council has had a day in which to design their proposal for 
peace. How difficult can it be?

BALTAR
The difficulty, old friend, is that some wish to retain the Galactica.

LUCIFER
Hmmm. I'm afraid that that condition would not be acceptable.

BALTAR
An opinion we share. I have suggested that the only genuine sign of 
sincerity is destroying the Galactica. After all, as formidable as
it is, it can not protect the fleet from three basestars.

LUCIFER
I agree with your conclusions, but unless you can persuade the Council of 
these realities I'm afraid indiscriminate destruction would be the only
result.

BALTAR
Give me one more day, and I will give you the last battlestar. The last 
human threat to the Cylon empire.

LUCIFER
One more day is acceptable. After that, I can not guarantee the peace 
we both seek.

BALTAR
Until tomorrow.

The monitor goes dead. Pronus steps forward to talk with Baltar.
   
PRONUS
Baltar, I'm afraid you promised to much when you offered the Galactica.

BALTAR
Pronus, I only stated the facts as you explained them to me. It is the 
Galactica that threatens the Cylons. Not individuals such as ourselves.

PRONUS
It's just that, well, even though the Council knows we have no recourse, 
actually dealing with the Cylons has reminded them of the past.

BALTAR
Remind them also that we had a fleet of battlestars then, and offered them 
no sign of our sincerity except for a piece of paper.

PRONUS
(dejected) You are right. I shall force the Council to face this reality.

BALTAR
You are doing the right thing, my friend.

Pronus seems to retain doubts, while Baltar smiles.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL - MOON (OPTICAL))

(INT CLOSE SHOT SICK BAY TABLE)
The shot is on the table where Badjer was looking for notes from the 
physicians who where attempting to solve the health emergency eons age. 
His light is still there, shining on some of his own equipment, on or two 
pieces which have been broken into for their power sources, and a large 
piece of equipment that had been in the sick bay. The power cells are 
attached to the large piece of equipment, which has indicator lights on. 
Movement noises and objects bumping against object noises can be heard, 
though the actual source of the noise is not scene. Badjer speaks quietly.
 
BADJER (V.O.S.)
This should work. (beat) It will work. (beat) It just needs a little time.
 
More movement noises.
 
(EXT SUN GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
The sun fills the screen. the Galactica is only a speck at the center
of the screen.

(EXT SUN GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
The sun still fills the screen. The Galactica, though still distant,
is larger and more easily discernible.
 
(EXT SUN GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
A side view, showing the sun on one half of the screen behind the Galactica.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Only Tigh and Omega are at the command center. Cassiopeia enters
and walks up to the center area.

TIGH
Is there something wrong?

CASSIOPEIA
No, it's just that everything is under control in the infirmary, and the 
waiting...for something to happen... I just needed to know what's going on.

TIGH
Nothing. (beat) Waiting like this is the hardest part.

CASSIOPEIA
(beat) You think it will work? You think this is the way the basestar will 
come?

TIGH
If prayers are answered.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SICK BAY TABLE)
The noises continue.

BADJER (V.O.S.)
By the gods, it's working. 

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SICKBAY DOORWAY)
Position moves to just outside the sickbay. 
 
BADJER (V.O.S.)
(shouting) It's working!! Whooo!

(EXT SPACE BASESTAR (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR COMMAND CENTER DIABLO)
Several Cylons are at different stations. The commander, Diablo,
is questioning a centurion about their progress.
 
DIABLO
Why are we moving at a reduced speed? We are behind schedule.

CENTURION
There is sensory interference from surface phenomenon on the surface of the 
star. Reducing speed was necessary to maintain optimum safety for our ship.

DIABLO
Our safety may be in greater danger from Lucifer if we are not in position 
at the appropriate time. Order out a patrol to sweep ahead of us, and 
resume full speed.

CENTURION
By your command.
 
INT MEDIUM SHOT SICKBAY DOORWAY
More noises of objects moving or being opened. A grunt
is heard from Badjer, who can not be seen, as if he's exerting himself.

BADJER (V.O.S.)
Move that closer.

AMARANTH (V.O.S.)
Here?

BADJER (V.O.S.)
Perfect. Stand back.

More noises follow.
 
(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Tigh is standing behind Omega, looking over Omega's shoulder. Cassiopeia is 
leaning against a rail. Nothing is happening. Tigh paces over to Cassiopeia.
 
TIGH
This is not good.

CASSIOPEIA
Could the basestar have taken a different route.

TIGH
Yes, but the safest route for them to approach Earth or our fleet would 
have lead them within our sensor range from this point.

CASSIOPEIA
Then they have different plans.

TIGH
Nothing else makes sense. I'm afraid we have to return to the fleet and wait.

OMEGA
Sir, we have something on scanners.

Tigh and Cassiopeia move to Omega's station.

TIGH
Is it the basestar?

OMEGA
No sir. Appears to be Raiders.
 
TIGH
Then the basestar has to be following close behind. 

CASSIOPEIA
Why would they launch raiders? Have they found us?

TIGH
No. We are emitting electronic signals that appear to be solar flares, 
and these signals are impairing their ability to see. They must have 
launched their Raiders to help them navigate. It won't be long now.

The boredom is replaced with anxiety, especially for Cassiopeia.

INT MEDIUM SHOT SICKBAY DOORWAY  
Someone walks through the door, but shadows and darkness do 
not reveal who. The camera follows the figure through the corridors, 
with an occasional dim emergency light adding shadows. The figure leaves 
the corridor after a while, entering a room. The camera follows to the
doorway, but does not follow into the room. Rummaging noises are heard 
for a few moments, followed by a loud click and a steadily increasing 
whir sound.  Lights come to life.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Tigh and Cassiopeia are still watching over Omega's shoulder.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
On Omega's scanner, the basestar finally appears.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
TIGH
There's the basestar. Feed coordinates to Vipers and launch.

OMEGA
Information is transferred to Vipers.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT LAUNCH CONTROL RIGEL)
RIGEL
All Vipers cleared to launch.
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO)

APOLLO
That's us Starbuck.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK)
STARBUCK
Just like the good old days.

RIGEL (COMM VOICE)
Vipers be advised. The basestar has launched a patrol of Raiders.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO)
APOLLO
Still like the old days, Starbuck?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK)
STARBUCK
Now even more so.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO)
Apollo smiles. It is not a nervous smile.

(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
Thumbs push the thruster button on the joystick.

(MULTIPLE SHOTS VIPER LAUNCHING)
A series of shots show the experimental Vipers accelerating down the   
launch tubes, both Apollo and Starbuck thrown back
launch tubes, both Apollo and Starbuck thrown back from the
acceleration, and the Vipers finally breaking into open space.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO)
Apollo has an expression of amazement and fear.

APOLLO
This thing is dangerous?

STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
Isn't that the purpose of a high-speed fighter.

APOLLO
I mean it's dangerous to us!

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK)
STARBUCK
That's real re-assuring, coming from our best pilot. (smirk)

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO)
APOLLO
We can talk titles later. For now let's knock out those communication arrays.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK)
STARBUCK
I'm ready to battle test this beauty.

(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
Thumbs go to the thrusters again.

(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS - TRAVELING)
The pair of fast flying Vipers accelerate even more.

(EXT SPACE BASESTAR (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR CONTROL ROOM DIABLO)
CENTURION
(to Diablo) By your command.

DIABLO
Report.
 
CENTURION
Sensor indicate two high velocity objects approaching.
   
DIABLO
What are they?
 
CENTURION
Unknown. Basic configuration is that of a colonial Viper, but velocity 
exceeds the colonial Viper's structural maximum speed.

(EXT SPACE BASESTAR (OPTICAL))
After a second, the Vipers appear and fly quickly and
directly toward the basestar.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Making attack run. Slowing down to aid targeting computer.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Not a bad idea. These Vipers could out fly their computers.

(MULTIPLE SHOTS BASESTAR VIPERS (OPTICAL))
The attack happens quickly. Shots of the Vipers firing lasers, the
communication arrays being hit, CLOSE SHOTS of Apollo and Starbuck,
and INSERT SHOTS of fire buttons being pushed.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR CONTROL ROOM DIABLO)
DIABLO
Launch all fighters at once. Attack the battlestar from where those 
Vipers came.
 
CENTURION
Launching fighters now.

DIABLO
Send a message to the other basestars. Lucifer must know that the humans 
have no intention to surrender.

CENTURION
Unable to comply with your last instruction. The Vipers limited their 
attack to our communication arrays.

DIABLO
Hmmm. This is not good.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Cassiopeia has backed away from Omega's monitor station. She doesn't
want to watch the battle. Omega and Tigh, however, stare intently.

TIGH
The Vipers have made their strafing attacks and are moving off. We are 
within pulsar canon range of the basestar?

OMEGA
Yes sir.

TIGH
Prepare the pulsar for firing.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
The angle of view is from below the Galactica looking up. On the
underside of the Galactica along the center and pointing forward
is a long cylinder, the same color as the hull.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA PULSAR (OPTICAL))
A closer shot of the cylinder shows that the front part is opening
to reveal the end of the pulsar canon.

(EXT SPACE BASESTAR (OPTICAL))

(EXT SPACE BASESTAR LAUNCH BAY (OPTICAL))
 
(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
OMEGA
Basestar is launching fighters.
 
TIGH
Order all our remaining Vipers to launch. Activate defenses.
 
(INSERT SHOT DEFENSE CONTROLS)
Omega's hand start to flip a bank of switches that are labeled
'laser turrets'.

(EXT LASER TURRETS)
'All fire control stations manned and operational.'
Shots of some of the laser turrets lifting barrels, becoming active.
 
(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
TIGH
Target the pulsar canon on the basestar and fire when ready.
   
OMEGA
Basestar is targeted. Pulsar charge is fifty percent. Sixty percent.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Why hasn't the Galactica fired?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
They must still be charging the pulsar canon.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
They better hurry. The Cylons are getting their fighters out.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
OMEGA
Eighty percent. (beat beat) Ninety percent. (beat beat) One hundred percent.

TIGH
Fire!

(INSERT SHOT FIRE CONTROL)
Hand presses the trigger to the pulsar canon.
 
(EXT SPACE PULSAR (OPTICAL))
The canon glows for a second, then emits a blast.

(EXT SPACE BASESTAR (OPTICAL))
A Cylon Raider passes over the camera position. Another is approaching 
when the pulsar blast appears from slightly above and behind, heading 
for the basestar. The basestar is hit, exploding immediately. The 
shock-wave catches the approaching Raider, causing it flip end over end.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
Light from the explosion throws shadows on Apollo
 
APOLLO
Direct hit!

INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING
 
STARBUCK
Too bad we didn't have that back at Caprica. Things might have been a 
little different.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Can't change the past, but we can determine the here and now. Let's 
help mop up those Cylon fighters.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Odds are a little lop sided, but it sounds like fun.

(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
Thruster button is hit.
 
(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
The Vipers bank and head back towards the Galactica.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
All lights normally on on the Galactica are off. The ship is dark.

(EXT LASER TURRETS(OPTICAL))
The laser turrets which only a minute before were rising to the
ready position are all now falling, as if deactivated.

(INT FULL SHOT BRIDGE)
Emergency lights are on, and the power to most of the stations is
off. One station exploded and is still smoking. Cassiopeia rushes to
aid the wounded crewman. The entire bridge is in Pandemonium.

TIGH
Get the ship's power back on.

OMEGA
The pulsar canon must have overloaded the energizers. All
safeties will have to be reset first.
 
TIGH
(beat) (worried) That could take a minute more.
 
Omega also looks worried.

(EXT SPACE CYLON FIGHTERS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL)) 
The surviving Raiders are heading towards the Galactica.
 
(INT MEDIUM SHOT CYLON RAIDER)
CYLON ONE
Enemy ship located.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (P.O.V. CYLONS) (OPTICAL))
The Galactica, still powerless, is seen from the Cylon craft.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CYLON RAIDER)
CYLON ONE
It is the Galactica.

CENTURION
Prepare to attack the Galactica.

CYLON TWO
Should we not inform the other basestars that the human fleet is unprotected?
 
CENTURION
We can not communicate from this location. Our final instructions were to 
attack the battlestar that launched Vipers against the basestar. Carry out 
your orders.

CYLON TWO
By your command.

(EXT SPACE RAIDERS(OPTICAL))
The Raiders turn and bank to attack the Galactica.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Apollo, something's wrong with the Galactica.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
Apollo strains to look through the Vipers canopy.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
The Galactica is still dark. Laser blast from Vipers and Raiders
begin to appear around the Galactica.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Your right.
   
BOOMER (COMM VOICE)
All Vipers form near the Galactica. Her lasers are not firing.
 
APOLLO
Boomer, what went wrong?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
Something with the pulsar canon.
 
(INSERT SHOT DISPLAY)
Boomer has a lock on a Cylon Raider

(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
Fire button is pressed.

(EXT SPACE CYLON)
Laser blasts track to the Raider and destroy it.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
The explosion throws light on to Boomer's face.
 
BOOMER
Get back fast and help. If they're suicidal, they could still do a lot 
of damage.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
We can get there and fast. Starbuck?

STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
Right behind you.

(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS - TRAVELING)
The Vipers bank and turn towards the Galactica.

(EXT SPACE CYLONS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
Four Cylon Raiders, still flying for the Galactica.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CENTURION)
CENTURION
Fly to the Galactica's landing bays.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
Boomer is staring intently out through the canopy.
 
(EXT SPACE CYLONS - TRAVELING (P.O.V. BOOMER) (OPTICAL))
The same four Cylon Raiders, seen from behind.
 
(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
Combat computer shows a Cylon Raider is targeted.
 
(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
Boomer presses the fire button.

(EXT SPACE CYLONS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
Raiders are seen from the front, with a Viper coming down on them from 
behind. The Viper fires destroying the trailing Raider. The others veer 
of breaking formation.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
Light from the explosion illuminates Boomer's face.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
The Galactica is still dark and motionless. Vipers and Raiders can
be seen around her.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Only the emergency lights are on. Smoke is still in the air.

TIGH
(to Omega) Report on the repair status.

OMEGA
Crews are almost finished with repairs to the energizers.

TIGH
Re-activate laser turrets the micron that power returns.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
Boomer is looking down at his scanner.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
A Cylon Raider drifts away from the center of the screen, and then
the screen goes blank.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
I've got three Cylons heading for the landing bays that I can't stop.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
We have them, Boomer. Starbuck, take the one heading for Alpha bay.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
You sure you can get two of them?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
I have to.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck looks down at his attack computer.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
The Cylon craft is locked on to by the firing system.

(EXT SPACE CYLON RAIDER(OPTICAL))

The Raider has Starbuck's Viper right behind it. The Viper's lasers
fire, hitting and destroying the Raider.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
Got him. Coming your way to help, Apollo.

Apollo looks down at his scanner.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
The Cylon craft is locked on to by the firing system.

(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
Apollo presses the fire button.

(EXT SPACE CYLONS)
The two Cylon Raiders are being perused by Apollo's Viper.

STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
Power back, Apollo. Your coming in on them too fast.

The Viper's lasers strike and destroy the trailing Raider, but the 
lead Cylon is safe when the Viper speeds by him.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Frack! I overflew one.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
I don't think I can get there fast enough.

(EXT SPACE LANDING BAY BETA (OPTICAL))
Shot is seen as from an approaching craft.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CENTURION)
CENTURION
Fly into the landing bay. Discharge all weapons.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))
Looking down, the Raider is still outside the landing bay, but it
begins to fire it's lasers.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Suddenly, the power comes back on.

TIGH
(to Omega) (urgently) Reactivate all lasers now!

Omega reaches for the controls using both hands.

(INSERT SHOT CONTROLS)
Omega is flipping all of the switches 'on' for the lasers.

(INT FULL SHOT LANDING BAY CYLON RAIDER)
From within the bay, the Raider can be seen approaching and firing.

(EXT LASER TURRET (OPTICAL))
A laser begins to raise its barrels to an active position.
'All fire control stations manned and operational.'

(EXT SPACE CYLON (P.O.V. LASER TURRET))
The camera swings to view the Cylon just before it enters the 
landing bay. The laser turrets barrels frame the sides of the shot.
The Cylon is still firing when the laser turret fires.

(INT FULL SHOT LANDING BAY CYLON RAIDER)
The Raider is much closer than before, almost in the bay and firing. The 
blast from the laser turret hits the Raider, but does not destroy the Raider.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CENTURION (OPTICAL))
Sparks and smoke fill the cabin of the Raider. It begins to spin.

(INT FULL SHOT LANDING BAY CYLON RAIDER (OPTICAL))
The damaged Raider spins and crashes on to the Deck of the landing
bay. It explodes near the entrance of the bay.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck is looking to one side at the Galactica. The explosion
throws light on to his face.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
Apollo is looking to one side at the Galactica. The explosion
throws light on to his face.

(EXT SPACE LANDING BAY (OPTICAL))
The glow from flames within the bay can be seen.

(INT FULL SHOT LANDING BAY BETA (OPTICAL))
The fire is raging all around the walls of the bay.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
APOLLO (COMM VOICE)
Apollo to Galactica.

TIGH
Report, Colonel.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
A Cylon crashed into landing bay beta. What happened to the defense system?

(EXT LANDING BAY BETA (OPTICAL))
TIGH (COMM VOICE)
The pulsar canon overloaded our energizers. We lost all power.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
You still look better than the basestar.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
TIGH
We came close to being no different then that basestar.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
TIGH (COMM VOICE)
All vipers return to the Galactica. Use landing bay alpha.

STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
Apollo, it looks like you were right.

APOLLO
Right about what, Starbuck?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
About these weapons being dangerous. (beat) Even to us.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
Apollo nods his head.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL MARS MOON)

(INT MEDIUM SHOT SICKBAY DOORWAY)
The corridor outside the sickbay is now well lit. The sick bay, while the 
interior is still shielded from view, is also well lit. There is a great 
deal more noise than before, and though there are voices, they can not be 
heard distinctly.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Tigh is standing near Omega's station. Starbuck and Apollo enter
and approach Tigh.

APOLLO
(to Tigh) How seriously was the Galactica damaged?

TIGH
The damage was limited to landing bay beta. It will be at least three 
days before it can be brought back to service.

APOLLO
Alpha bay can handle all of the Vipers. 

TIGH
It will have to.

STARBUCK
At least we have one less basestar we'll have to handle.

TIGH
At least the important part of our plan went right.

APOLLO
And we didn't lose any Vipers or pilots.

TIGH
And we'll need them all. The Cylons must have planned to attack soon. 
We're heading back to the fleet to prepare for battle now.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
The Galactica is banking and moving.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL MARS MOON (OPTICAL))

(INT FULL SHOT DARK ROOM (OPTICAL))
This is the room Badjer and Amaranth first entered after the 
airlock. It's still dark. Their is a faint metallic noise.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT STAIRS (OPTICAL))
The stairs that Badjer and Amaranth climbed. Still in the dark,
but the metallic sound is louder.

(INT FULL SHOT DARK (OPTICAL))
Nothing can be seen through the darkness. The metallic sound is
much large than before. It goes on for several seconds. When it
stops a whir/hum begins. The lights come on, and a huge chamber
is revealed. It is filled with hundreds if not thousands of bio-chambers.

(INT CLOSE SHOT MONITOR LUCIFER)
LUCIFER
That can not be your best offer, Baltar.

Baltar is sitting in front of a communication monitor in the
council chamber aboard the Rising Star. He is serious.

BALTAR
It is the Councils offer. I have tried to persuade them 
simply disarming the Galactica does not end the threat to the
Cylon Empire, but they have grown more, (beat) apprehensive.

LUCIFER
We are prepared to impose our terms, which would mean total 
annihilation of all the humans. 

BALTAR
Lucifer, perhaps they do not embrace our wisdom because they have 
forgotten the true destructive power the Empire possesses!

LUCIFER
(beat) Do I understand you, Baltar?

BALTAR
A good lieutenant always understands the orders of his superior.

LUCIFER
Hmmm.

BALTAR
A demonstration could be very persuasive. 

LUCIFER
Yes. Tomorrow we will give you the demonstration you suggest.

BALTAR
Why tomorrow, Lucifer? (suspicious) Why have you listened to the Council's
inadequate offers and not moved sooner.
 
LUCIFER
Ahem. (beat) I thought it was your wish that I negotiate.

Baltar seems suspicious, but he convinces himself that Lucifer is
telling him the truth.

BALTAR
Of course. Until tomorrow then. I must prepare the Council.

LUCIFER
By your command.

The monitor goes blank, but Baltar continues to stare at it.

(EXT SPACE BASESTARS (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR COMMAND CENTER LUCIFER)
LUCIFER
(to Centurion) Inform me when Diablo signals that his basestar is in 
position. We will attack the humans immediately thereafter.

CENTURION
Will it be a limited attack as suggested by Baltar?

LUCIFER
Ohhh, the limited programming given to you Centurions. While I suspect 
Baltar would like these negotiations to succeed, so he could personally 
oversee the destruction of the Galactica, I fear the humans are 
manipulating him. A limited show of force would only allow the humans to 
engage our forces at odds beneficial to them, not us. No. When we attack, 
we shall attack in full force.

(INT MULTIPLE SHOTS HUGE CHAMBER MARS MOON)
Shots are focused on the bio-chambers, in groups of five or less. Movement 
noises can be heard off screen, including multiple voices, though no single 
voice is distinct. Shots of the bio-chambers conclude with three overhead 
shots. The last bio-chamber focused in on is empty.

(EXT SPACE RISING STAR (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT COUNCIL CHAMBER BALTAR)
Baltar is standing, addressing Pronus and the Council.

BALTAR
The Cylons are willing to allow us to live, but we need to prove our 
sincerity that we wish never to attack them.

COUNCIL PERSON ONE
But surely our long flight from the Cylons we do not wish to fight.

BALTAR
Your long flight was seen by the Cylons as an attempt to find new forces 
with which to attack them.

COUNCIL PERSON TWO
But the thirteenth tribe is not an advanced civilization. They are not 
a threat to the Cylons.

BALTAR
You miss the point! (bangs table with his fist) You seek peace only after 
you can no longer wage a winnable war! (calmer) The Cylons still view you 
as preferring to destruction, while wanting to pursue war against them. 
(calmly) Destroy your weapon of war, and the Cylons will see you truly 
want peace and to live. Attempt to hold on to that which threatens them, 
and they can believe only that you still wish war, and to die.

Silence. All members look to Pronus, who is reflecting on Baltar's words.

PRONUS
(beat beat) (weakly) And how can we know we can trust the Cylons?

BALTAR
You can't, (beat) but you have no choice. (smile) Oppose them, and 
will certainly die. Surrender, and you keep your only hope.

All members look to Pronus again, who appears defeated.

PRONUS
(beat) Though reflection makes it difficult to accept, that has been the 
conclusion of the council from the beginning. (beat) Baltar, if you would 
excuse us, we need to discuss and decide this matter.

BALTAR
Of course. Ah, but one last thing. I would encourage you not to take long. 
I sense that the Cylons grow (beat) impatient.

The council understands the Baltar's warning.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL MARS MOON(OPTICAL))
The huge metallic structure in front of the slab wall is also visible. 
Several shots examine different areas of the structure. A whirring-
rumbling sound slowly increases. It crescendos to a huge roar.

(EXT AERIAL SHOT METAL STRUCTURE MARS MOON (OPTICAL))
The structure seems to explode, but in reality it is the centuries
of dust and sand that are being blown loose and away from the
structure. For the moment though, it is lost in the cloud.

(EXT LONG AERIAL SHOT METAL STRUCTURE MARS MOON (OPTICAL))
The view is from an even greater height. New clouds of dust begin to 
erupt like volcanoes from an area away from the wall and metallic 
structures. Closer shots on the surface show nothing but a dust storm.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Tigh is standing. Omega is at his station. Apollo and Starbuck
enter and approach Tigh.

TIGH
We've just received a message from the council.

APOLLO
Is the fleet under attack?

TIGH
No. They have reached terms for peace.

STARBUCK
Well, that's worse than an attack.

APOLLO
It is no different than one in the end.

TIGH
It will be different than in the past, considering that the 
Galactica won't be there.

Apollo and Starbuck both have blank expressions of surprise. They 
look at each other, and then back at Tigh.

TIGH
They have agreed that in return for the Cylons guarantee of peace and 
allowing us to live in this solar system, we shall turn the Galactica 
over to them, along with all our Vipers and weapons, including our 
capabilities to produce new weapons.

APOLLO
It can't be true.

TIGH
It is. I had Pronus repeat it to me three times.

STARBUCK
Did they forget to include us in the deal, or are you saving
the best news for last?

TIGH
The Council wants to meet with us upon our return to the fleet.
Maybe they'll give us Starbuck's news then.

(EXT SPACE BASESTARS (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR COMMAND CENTER LUCIFER
Lucifer is entering the room. He approached a Centurion.

LUCIFER
Has there been any report from Diablo?

CENTURION
Negative.

LUCIFER
(beat) He is late.

CENTURION
All system have been examined and are operating properly.

LUCIFER
Have the colonial Vipers been continuously monitoring our basestars here?

CENTURION
Affirmative.

LUCIFER
Then the Galactica did not have the time to move off and intercept Diablo. 
We should assume that he has communication difficulties but will be 
positioned properly at the appointed time. Continue trying to contact him.

CENTURION
By your command.

(EXT FULL SHOT SLAB WALL MARS MOON (OPTICAL))
The dust storm is clearing a bit, but there still seems to be some
wind. A loud, vibrating warning beep begins to sound. After a few 
moments, the center slabs in the wall begin to draw apart, like a 
large curtain. What they shield can not be seen, however.

(EXT SPACE RISING STAR (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT COUNCIL CHAMBER PRONUS)
Pronus and the Council are seated around the table. Tigh, Apollo, and 
Starbuck enter and go to their seat positions. When Tigh and Apollo are 
seated, Baltar enters the room, and moves to stand behind Pronus.

PRONUS
Commander Tigh, it is my duty as head of the Council of Twelve to inform 
you that dissolving our warrior force and surrendering all weapons and
means of manufacturing tools to the Cylons in return for peace.

Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck appear angry but confident.

TIGH
Is it the opinion of the Council that the Cylons can be trusted in this 
matter?

BALTAR
They can be trusted to want peace more than our own warriors.

APOLLO
The warriors at this table have good reason for not trusting the Cylons.

PRONUS
Do not give us your stale stories of our history.

STARBUCK
This tale you haven't heard before. The Cylons lied to you when they said 
they had three basestars that followed us to this system. They had four.

BALTAR
I don't believe you. Why would they lie?

APOLLO
So the fourth basestar could circle around the solar system and attack 
Earth while the other basestars destroyed our fleet.

STARBUCK
It would be Caprica all over.

BALTAR
(to himself) Lucifer...

PRONUS
The Cylons have a fourth basestar circling around us?

TIGH
Had.

COUNCIL PERSON ONE
You have threatened the peace agreement!

TIGH
(authoritatively) First, their actions prove they never intended to agree 
to peace. Second, how could our actions threaten peace, since the Cylons 
can not admit what they hoped to accomplish by their actions.

PRONUS
What does all this mean?

APOLLO
It means we fight for what we believe in. It means we can't surrender 
our hopes into the hands of those who have pursued and persecuted us.

COUNCIL PERSON TWO
But we can't defeat the Cylons!

STARBUCK
We can defeat them. (beat) The odds aren't exactly in our favor,
but the best and only chance we have to survive is to fight them.

PRONUS
And if you fight and lose, every man, woman, and child would also 
lose, (beat) their lives.

TIGH
If humanity is to have any future at all, this battle must be fought and won.

PRONUS
You are usurping the power of the Council!

TIGH
The Council has no power over the Cylons! The only power it has is 
to doom humanity!

Tigh's words silence Pronus. He realizes Tigh is right.

APOLLO
We are going to fight the Cylons. We will fight them for everything
we believe in, and we will fight them for all humanity. Many brave
men and women will soon be dead, but hopefully humanity will survive.

TIGH
We hope the Council will give us their blessing in this endeavor.

STARBUCK
And if you don't want to give us your blessing, at least don't 
help the Cylons to kill us.

All Council People hang their heads. Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck
exit the room. The Council begins to look to Baltar. Baltar has
also seen the truth of Tigh's words.

BALTAR
(beak) (weakly at first) Our warriors are right. The Cylons
only purpose has been to destroy us. (beat) All of us.

PRONUS
But what can we do?

BALTAR
Help our warriors. Help them however we can.

(EXT SPACE BASESTARS (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BASESTAR COMMAND CENTER LUCIFER)
Lucifer enters and goes to the centurion.

LUCIFER
Still no report from Diablo?

CENTURION
He has not reported.

LUCIFER
Hmmm. (beat) We can not wait indefinitely. Order the other commanders 
to move their ships forward and prepare for launch.

CENTURION
By your command.

(EXT AERIAL SHOT MARS BASE DAY (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT CONTROL CENTER MARS BASE COMM OFFICER)
The comm. officer is sitting quietly, doing nothing. He looks
anxious and bored at the same time.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT PILOTS LOUNGE PILOTS)
Pilots are sitting around or pacing slowly. Some play cards
silently. They are waiting for the attack to come.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT LAUNCH BAY CREWS)
The crews are standing around the Vipers. A few are pacing, but all
are waiting.

(INT FULL SHOT BRIDGE)
The bridge is still and quiet. All stations are manned, but there is no 
movement or talking. Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck wait in the command area.

APOLLO
It won't be long now. The basestars have moved forward to launch.
                                                          
TIGH
Maybe we recalled our long-range patrol too quickly.

STARBUCK
The Galactica's scanners work as well as those on a Viper. 
Besides, they had to refuel.

APOLLO
We're going to need every Viper we have.

TIGH
The fleet is holding position where we want it. All squadrons
are ready, the pulsar canon can be used again if needed. The 
only thing not ready is landing bay beta.

STARBUCK
Now all this party needs is Cylons.

Omega is watching his screen.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER (OPTICAL))
Triangular targets enter the screen from the edges.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
OMEGA
(to Tigh) Sir, sensors show waves of small crafts, heading
towards the Galactica.

STARBUCK
Are you going to ask if they're Cylons?

TIGH
(to Omega)Sound battle alert.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT PILOT LOUNGE PILOTS)
The battle klaxon begins to sound, and all the pilots
immediately run to get to their Vipers.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
TIGH
(to Omega) Warn the fleet.

(EXT SPACE RISING STAR (OPTICAL))

(INT CLOSE SHOT COMMUNICATION STATION BALTAR)

BALTAR
Explain yourself, Lucifer. 

LUCIFER
Just following my instructions, Baltar.

BALTAR
Then follow these instruction. Recall the attack.

LUCIFER
I'm afraid that is impossible.

BALTAR
It is not impossible. You risk the success of your mission if 
you attack the humans now!

LUCIFER
I doubt that, Baltar.

BALTAR
The humans have developed new and powerful weapons, Lucifer!

LUCIFER
That remains to be seen.

BALTAR
It has been seen! By the fourth basestar that you had with you!

Lucifer says nothing.

BALTAR
Recall your attack!

LUCIFER
Baltar, in all the time that I have known you, I've never determined 
whose side you are really on. (beat) The attack will proceed.

Communication ends. Baltar glares at the blank screen.

(EXT SPACE CYLONS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
A huge number of Raiders can be seen heading for the Galactica.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (OPTICAL))

(INT CLOSE SHOT BRIDGE RIGEL)
RIGEL
All Vipers cleared for launch.

(MULTIPLE SHOT VIPERS LAUNCHING)
Numerous shots of Vipers launching, to give the effect of large
numbers flying out to meet the Cylons.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
OMEGA
All Vipers are launched.

TIGH
And the Vipers from our Mars base?

OMEGA
Mars base report all of their Vipers have launched. They should reach 
and flank the Cylons before the Cylons reach the Galactica.

TIGH
Hopefully that will reduce the strength of their attack.

STARBUCK
Commander, I know this is not a good time, but I'd like to 
request to leave the bridge.

TIGH
Leave the bridge for where?

STARBUCK
For the Experimental Viper, Sir.

APOLLO
I would like to make the same request.

TIGH
Those Vipers are not safe.

STARBUCK
No ship around here is safe right now.

APOLLO
Sir. I don't feel two more officers on the bridge can make as big a 
difference as two more Vipers out there.

Tigh knows they are right. He doesn't speak, but after a moment he 
reaches out and shakes both of their hands. He then turns and 
concentrates his attention on Omega's monitor. Starbuck and Apollo leave.

(EXT SPACE CYLON RAIDERS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CENTURION (OPTICAL))

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA (P.O.V. CYLONS))
The Galactica is still off in the distance.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CENTURION)
CYLON ONE
Vipers have launched and are deployed around the Galactica.

CENTURION
Engage the humans.

(EXT SPACE VIPERS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))

(INT CLOSE UP VIPER SHEBA - TRAVELING)
SHEBA
The Cylons aren't turning to meet us. Mars squadron, attack before
they try to evade.

(EXT LONG SHOT GALACTICA)
The Galactica is still small in the distance. One end of the Cylon
wave can be seen heading towards the Galactica. Just behind the
Cylons a squadron of Vipers descends upon them from behind.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
OMEGA
The Mars squadron was not detected. They have engaged and disrupted 
the Cylon flank.

(EXT SPACE BATTLE (OPTICAL))
Vipers inflict casualties quickly, but after a few moments the Cylons
begin to respond. While the Vipers can still out fly the Raiders, the
Raiders are just as deadly.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
All Galactica squadrons, focus your attack on the left center of the Cylon 
formation. Mars squadron is creating Hades on the right end of their 
formation.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
OMEGA
All squadrons have engaged the Cylons. There are inflicting
damage on the Cylons, but our Vipers are well out-numbered.
                             
TIGH
They have always fought against superior numbers. Activate defensive systems.

(INSERT SHOT CONTROLS)
Omega flips the switches that activate the laser turrets.
'All fire control stations manned and operational.'

(EXT SPACE BATTLE)
Several shots of Vipers and Raiders fighting. The dogfights slowly
move to swirl around the Galactica.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
TIGH
Positive shields!

Shields are raised over the large bridge portal.

OMEGA
Sir, new contacts.

TIGH
Describe them.

OMEGA
Unknown. Two, possibly three squadrons. They are rising from the near 
moon on Mars. Computer can't identify them.

TIGH
Bridge to Apollo

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - STATIONARY)
Apollo and Starbuck are still in the launch bays. They are moments
from launching.

APOLLO
Go ahead, Commander.

TIGH (COMM VOICE)
Go to the near moon of Mars. Scanners show additional craft
heading toward us.

APOLLO
Cylons?

TIGH (COMM VOICE)
We can't tell. You and Starbuck have to find out.

APOLLO
Will do. (to Starbuck) Ready?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - STATIONARY)
STARBUCK
Been ready all my life.

(INSERT SHOT JOYSTICK)
Thrusters buttons are pressed.

(MULTIPLE SHOTS EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS LAUNCHING)
The Vipers launch from the Galactica, and then bank and turn toward 
the moon.

(EXT SPACE BATTLE)
Although Raiders are being destroyed, so are Vipers. One of the
Raiders crashes into landing bay alpha.

(INT FULL SHOT LANDING BAY ALPHA RAIDER)
The Raider crashes into the deck with a thunderous explosion.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
They feel the Galactica shudder from the impact.

TIGH
Damage report.

OMEGA
Landing bay Alpha. Showing fire indicators almost to the launch bays.

Tigh slowly closes his eyes. He seems to look defeated.

(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS - TRAVELING)

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO)
APOLLO
Turn on battle computers.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK)
Starbuck looks down, moving his arm as to reach for a switch.
 
(INSERT SHOT BATTLE COMPUTER)
The battle computer flashes through several configurations stopping
finally on a craft called the Scorpion.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK)
STARBUCK
I think there's a problem with my computer. It says that these aren't Cylon.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO)
APOLLO
My computer says that they're being flown by humans.

STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
It must be a trick.
 
APOLLO
The Cylons have no need for deception now. (beat) Stay close, Starbuck.

(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS - TRAVELING)
APOLLO (COMM VOICE)
Attention unidentified craft. You are approaching a combat zone.

(EXT SPACE SCORPIONS)
Dozens of older looking fighters, flying more slowly than normal
Vipers, are seen, with the moon behind them.
 
APOLLO (COMM VOICE)
State your identity and intent, or risk being fired upon.

There is no immediate response.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA)
The battle continues. The Galactica continues to be damaged. A
Raider dives straight into the Galactica.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT RAIDER CENTURION)
CENTURION
The Galactica is losing it's ability to defend itself. Order that the 
attack be spread to the human fleet. No humans are to be spared.

(EXT SPACE BASESTARS (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT COMMAND CENTER LUCIFER)
LUCIFER
(to centurion) What reports do we have of the battle?

CENTURION
A high number of our Raiders have been destroyed, but the Galactica is 
showing a decreased ability to defend itself.

LUCIFER
Ohh, this is good news. Send orders to the other commanders. We are to 
move the basestars up to support our Raiders.

CENTURION
By your command.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA BATTLE (OPTICAL))
There are fewer Vipers and Raiders, but the Galactica is burning in spots.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT PASSAGEWAY FIRE CREW)
Fire fighters are manning their hoses, but they are giving ground.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
The bridge is in Pandemonium. Crewman are running about and yelling.

OMEGA
Damage reported on all decks and sections.
 
TIGH
Priority is to the defensive systems.

OMEGA
Sir, scanners show the Cylons are spreading out to the fleet.

TIGH
(beat beat) Warn them. (beat) It's all we can do.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Computer says they're human, but they aren't responding to your challenge.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Can't take the chance it's a Cylon trick. Prepare to fire.
 
Before Apollo can maneuver to attack, a voice answers his  challenge.

TIGRE (COMM VOICE)
Fighters, this is Commander Tigre, Thirteenth Fleet Defense Wing. We are 
on an intercept to engage interlopers in our defense sphere. 

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
(beat) (puzzled) Apollo?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
(beat) I heard. Unidentified craft, repeat your last message.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
The Scorpion is more austere than a Viper. The uniform and helmet
are similar to colonial warriors garb, but plainer.
 
TIGRE
You heard my message, young man. We heard that sons of Kobol are
being attacked, and we intend to aid our brothers.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Apollo, I still think it sounds like a trick.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
TIGRE
Warrior, at fifty to one, we don't need to use tricks.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Defense Wing, Commander Tigre. Stay on your current heading. We are going 
to check you out visually before directing you to our people.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
TIGRE
Warrior, we can find your people without directions. We
just don't want everyone shooting at us when we get there.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
(smiles) I understand. We'll be next to you in a few seconds.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE)
TIGRE
A few what?
 
APOLLO (COMM VOICE)
Microns.
 
TIGRE
(nodding affirmative) Oh.

(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
The Vipers bank and loop downward.
 
APOLLO (COMM VOICE)
Apollo to Galactica. The fighters rising from the moon may be friendly.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA BATTLE (OPTICAL))

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
Omega turns in his chair and faces Tigh, removing his headphones.

OMEGA
It must be a trick.

TIGH
The Cylons have no need for tricks. Tell Apollo I trust his judgment. 
(to himself) And let's hope this is the miracle we prayed for.
 
(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPERS - TRAVELING)
The Vipers are viewed from an angle that makes them appear to be descending.

(EXT SPACE SCORPIONS - TRAVELING)
The Scorpion fighters are flying in a rough formation. The view is from 
above and behind them. The experimental Vipers come into view, flying on 
an angle to rendezvous with the lead Scorpion.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck is looking to one side.

(EXT SPACE SCORPION PILOT - TRAVELING)
A side shot of one of the old Scorpions. The pilot is looking back
at Starbuck. The Viper is pulling slowly ahead of the Scorpion.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
Apollo is peering to the side opposite of where Starbuck was looking. 

STARBUCK
Apollo, you see this?
 
(EXT SPACE SCORPION PILOT - TRAVELING)
A side shot of one of the old Scorpions. The pilot is looking back
at Apollo. The Viper is pulling slowly ahead of the Scorpion.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
I see them. (beat) Humans.

TIGRE (COMM VOICE)
Not just any humans.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
TIGRE
Warriors of the planet Kobol.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Kobol died millennia ago.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Judging by your ships, you guys are old, but not that old.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
Tigre looks left, then right.

TIGRE
We are that old.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
TIGRE (COMM VOICE)
We just haven't been alive all that time.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
TIGRE (COMM VOICE)
But we are alive now. Our duty, (beat) our mission, hasn't changed.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
TIGRE
Do we pass your test? May we join the fight?

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
We need help defending our civilians. Maintain your present course.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
TIGRE
Thank you.
 
(EXT SPACE RAIDER AND VIPER)
A Viper gets behind a Raider and blasts it.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER SHEBA)
SHEBA
They're moving away from the Galactica.
 
(INT LANDING BAY GALACTICA)
Flames and explosions.

(EXT SPACE GALACTICA)
Effervescent flames are seen in several locations       

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER BOOMER - TRAVELING)
BOOMER
There's no fight left in the Galactica, Sheba. The Cylons are 
after our fleet.
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER SHEBA - TRAVELING)
SHEBA
The Galactica isn't dead yet!

She banks her Viper roughly.

(EXT SPACE RAIDER AND VIPER)
Sheba destroys another Cylon Raider.

(INT MEDIUM SHOT BRIDGE TIGH)
The bridge is shaded with smoke.
 
OMEGA
Sir, crews are not able to control all the fires.

TIGH
Can we launch any of our shuttles, to evacuate the wounded?

OMEGA
Fires in the bays are the ones that are moving forward. We can't 
launch any shuttles.

Tigh and Omega look at each other. There is no escape for anyone.
 
TIGH
At least there is hope for the fleet.
                               
Omega looks down at his scanner.
 
OMEGA
(hoarsely) Sir...
 
(EXT SPACE BASESTARS - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
 
(INT MEDIUM SHOT COMMAND CENTER LUCIFER)
LUCIFER
Report, Centurion.
 
CENTURION
The Galactica is burning. Both other landing bays are damaged. Her 
Vipers have no place to land.

LUCIFER
And the human fleet?

CENTURION
Our Raiders are now engaging the human fleet.

LUCIFER
I think it's time we assist our fighters.
 
(EXT SPACE EXPERIMENTAL VIPER - TRAVELING (OPTICAL))
Scorpion fighters are in the background.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
Starbuck looks down at his scanner.

(INSERT SHOT SCANNER)
The scanner shows the basestars.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
Apollo, check your scanner.

(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK (COMM VOICE)
Basestars.

APOLLO
Three of them.

TIGRE (COMM VOICE)
Is that the enemy fleet?

APOLLO
Yes. The Cylon Raiders ahead of us fly out of them.
                             
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER STARBUCK - TRAVELING)
STARBUCK
But the basestars don't need to launch a single fighter to
still have enough firepower to destroy the fleet.

TIGRE (COMM VOICE)
And there are only three of them?
 
STARBUCK
(incredulous) Only three?
 
(INT CLOSE SHOT VIPER APOLLO - TRAVELING)
APOLLO
Commander Tigre, you don't understand how deadly they are.

(INT CLOSE SHOT SCORPION TIGRE - TRAVELING)
TIGRE
Colonel Apollo, all I need to know is that their fighter cover is away 
from the