==========================================================================
                             15 - SECOND CHANCES
                                 2047 Team
==========================================================================
   Timeline: SeaQuest 2047
   Author's E-Mail: schiller@mgl.ca (E-Mail contact)
==========================================================================


seaQuest 2047
"Second Chances"
Written by Michelle Vincenti
Publication Draft
Sunday, May 18, 1997

Based on "seaQuest DSV" and "seaQuest 2032".


=========================  PART 0 - TEASER ===============================


TEASER

OPEN ON HITCHCOCK'S OFFICE

Secretary General Katherine Hitchcock is pacing the room. Something is
upsetting her, but there is no indication of what it is. Her intercom
beeps.

SECRETARY
(over com)
Madame Secretary, Captain Wolenczak is calling to speak with you.
(beat)
He _says_ it's important.

Hitchcock sighs. Now what does he want? She collapses into her chair.

HITCHCOCK
(weary)
Put him through.

Captain Lucas Wolenczak appears on the screen. He attempts to make it
seem like he called just to talk, but it isn't working. He wants
something from her and seems a little hesitant to ask.

HITCHCOCK
Yes, Lucas?

Hitchcock is sitting with her hand on her forehead, her eyes closed, and
is breathing deeply.

WOLENCZAK
Yeah, I, um...

He stops, noticing for the first time that something's wrong. He
realizes this isn't the time for him to be asking for anything.

WOLENCZAK
(concerned)
Katie, is everything okay? You look kinda upset.
(beat, uneasy)
What'd Ross do now? Is she starting with the PR again?

HITCHCOCK
(quickly)
No, no, it's not Ross. This has nothing to do with her.

She clasps her hands on top of her head and looks up at the ceiling.

WOLENCZAK
(confused)
So if it's not Ross...then what? It can't be a terrorist bombing because
I haven't heard about one.
(beat)
Don't tell me EWS is creating another Vortex...
(beat, more concerned)
What is it? What's wrong?

Hitchcock glances over at him with the barest hint of a smile on her
face.

HITCHCOCK
(sighing)
Lucas, do you know what that idiot...

She breaks off and turns away, shaking her head.

WOLENCZAK
(even more confused)
Katie, what are you talking about?
(beat)
_Who_ are you talking about? Who's an idiot?

Hitchcock doesn't respond.

WOLENCZAK
C'mon, Katie, you can tell me. I mean, we've been friends a long time,
right?
(beat, encouraging)
You know you can tell me anything.

Hitchcock finally gives in. She slowly reaches into her desk and pulls
out a small box. She opens it and puts it on her desk so Wolenczak can
see it. Inside the box is a beautiful diamond ring. The stone itself is
huge, but still small enough to be tasteful. It's set on a gold band and
the diamond is surrounded by smaller emeralds. A small smile creeps
across Wolenczak's face. He thinks he knows what's going on, but he
wants Hitchcock to tell him anyway.

WOLENCZAK
(giving her a hard time)
I know we've been friends a long time, but I didn't think you cared
_that_ much, Katie...

HITCHCOCK
(dryly)
Stop it, Lucas. I don't find it at all humorous.

Hitchcock leans back in her chair, sighing.

WOLENCZAK
Katie? What is it?

HITCHCOCK
He came up to see me yesterday.
(beat)
He...wants to give it another try.

Wolenczak obviously knows who she's talking about, but he decides
to play dumb.

WOLENCZAK
(mock innocence)
He? Who are you talking about?

HITCHCOCK
(smiling)
Who else?
(beat)
Ben.

Wolenczak's expression is a combination of shock and happiness.

CUT TO ROSS'S OFFICE

President Eileen Ross has the television on, but isn't really paying
attention. She's working on some "important" business. A reporter is
giving a report and sounds quite excited.

REPORTER
(V.O.)
We have just received word from UEO Headquarters that an unidentified
man has proposed to the secretary general. Our sources speculate that it
is former UEO Lieutenant Benjamin Krieg, who served aboard the first
_seaQuest DSV 4600_ in 2018, where then-Lieutenant Commander Katherine
Hitchcock was also serving. Mister Krieg also ran for president in 2028
under a campaign platform of "Eat Peace."

Ross looks at the screen intently. She is extremely interested by this
point. The look on her face says that she can see a way to work this
information to her advantage.

OFF TELEVISION

REPORTER
Apparently, this "happy couple" has known each other for a while and
this isn't the first time they've been linked together.

While the reporter is speaking, a young woman approaches her. She leans
over and whispers something.

REPORTER
I have just received confirmation that Benjamin Krieg is, in fact, the
man who has proposed to the secretary general...

OFF ROSS

The reporter continues, but Ross shuts off the television and smiles
mischievously. She has yet another of her "brilliant" ideas. She buzzes
DeLano.

DELANO
(over com)
Yes, Madame President?

ROSS
Gary, I need you to get me the best operative we have.
(beat)
I've got a very important assignment for him.
(beat, rubbing her temples)
Oh, and I need more aspirin again. I've got a splitting headache.

Ross goes back to work. Moments later, DeLano buzzes her.

ROSS
(annoyed)
Yes?

DELANO
I've contacted the operative, but he says he needs to know what his
assignment will be before he can decide whether he will accept the job
or not.

ROSS
(disbelieving)
What do you mean "before he can decide"...?!
(beat, composing herself)
Fine. Tell him I want all the information he can find about former
UEO Lieutenant Benjamin Krieg.
(beat, sternly)
And I want it as soon as possible.

CUT TO BURKE'S APARTMENT

The apartment is clean and fairly well-decorated. There are some
personal items lying around and it looks lived-in. Doctor Meridith Burke
is pacing around the living room, talking to herself.

BURKE
(miserable)
How could you have let a great job like the _seaQuest_ slip through your
hands like that?! You thought working _there_ was bad...
(beat, angrily)
What were you _thinking_?!

There's a knock at her door. Burke shuts her eyes and sighs deeply.
After a few moments, she pulls herself together and walks to the door.
She opens it and sees Frank Melanson standing there. She lets him in, he
walks towards the couch and sits down.

MELANSON
(brightly)
So, how's your day off going?

Burke doesn't answer him. She's pacing around the room, looking like
she's somewhere off in the distance, extremely depressed. Melanson sees
how upset she is and he becomes concerned.

MELANSON
(worried)
Meri, is everything okay? Did something happen yesterday?

BURKE
("snapping out of it", turning to him quickly)
What? Oh, no. Nothing happened.
(beat, hesitant, turning away)
Well...not exactly.

MELANSON
(concerned)
What do you mean "not exactly"? What's wrong?

BURKE
(defeated)
I don't know.

She walks to a window and stares out, her back to him.

BURKE
It seems like the longer I work at the hospital, the more frustrated I
get.

Melanson looks like he's starting to understand what Burke's getting at
and is getting rather impatient with her.

BURKE
(with difficulty)
I mean, I love working there and all, but something...

Burke hesitates even more. What she has to say is going to be difficult
and Melanson _isn't_ going to like it. She takes a deep breath and turns
to face him.

BURKE
Don't get me wrong or anything. It's a great job and all, and I'm
grateful to you for getting it for me, but...
(beat, sadly)
Oh, I don't know.

She looks away again, not wanting to see the look on his face.

BURKE
(reluctantly)
I just don't feel comfortable. I mean, my responsibilities here are
almost identical to the ones I had on the _seaQuest_, but they seem
so...different.

She pauses again, sensing his displeasure. She looks very depressed and
very much disheartened. Melanson still isn't saying anything, trying to
stop himself from exploding at her. Burke walks to an armchair, sinks
down into it and drops her head into her hands.

BURKE
I don't know what's wrong with me. I thought I'd be able to handle it.
(beat, looking up)
You'd think a civilian job would be easier after working in the Navy...

Her voice trails off as she sees the expression on Melanson's face. He
is not happy at all. Finally, he can't hold himself back any more.

MELANSON
(extremely frustrated)
Meri, do you know how many strings I pulled to get you this job?
(beat)
It wasn't easy, you know. I've had to do personal favors for so many
people, I'm surprised I've managed to get any sleep!
(beat, sarcastic)
Let alone do my job properly.

BURKE
(wearily)
I know, Frank. I know. And I _am_ grateful to you for all this, really.
(beat)
But I don't know if this job is really meant for me, or if I'm meant for
the job, or whatever.
(beat)
I don't think I can take much more of this. I don't think--

Melanson almost jumps off the couch and stalks over to where Burke is
sitting and slams his hands on the arms of the chair.

MELANSON
(cutting her off, angrily)
What the hell do you mean you can't take much more? What am I supposed
to tell them now?

Melanson stops, seething. He takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself
down, but it isn't really working. He turns and walks a few steps away
from her, his hands clasped behind his head.

MELANSON
(more to himself than to Burke)
After I went through all this work just to get you hired...

He turns back to look at Burke and sees that she looks extremely
frustrated. It's clear that all of his yelling and accusations are only
making things worse. Melanson realizes this and takes another deep
breath, trying to remain calm. He's still angry with her.

MELANSON
Does this have anything to do with you missing everyone on the
_seaQuest_?

Burke doesn't answer, she just looks down at her hands.

MELANSON
(probing)
Meri? Is that it?

Burke looks up at him and doesn't have to say anything else. The look on
her face tells him everything.

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END TEASER


===========================  PART 1  =====================================


ACT ONE

FADE IN TO BURKE'S APARTMENT

Burke and Melanson are still talking.

MELANSON
(sarcastic)
Why the hell won't you just admit it?!? You miss working on the
_seaQuest_.  You miss the crew...
(beat)
..._You just miss the whole goddamn boat!_

BURKE
Okay! I admit it!
(beat)
I _do_ miss working on the _seaQuest_! I miss the peacefulness of the
surrounding marine life, I miss the _seaQuest_ itself...
(beat)
...And yeah, I do miss the other crewmembers.
(beat, reminiscing)
They treated me not only as a co-worker, but as a friend.

Burke looks like she's about to start crying any minute. Melanson senses
her distress and softens a little.

MELANSON
(softly)
I'm sorry. I guess I can't understand why you'd want to go back to
working in the Navy.
(beat)
Especially after you were so anxious to leave in the first place.

At the mention of her leaving the Navy, Burke looks like her mind has
wandered off somewhere again.

MELANSON
(reasoning with her)
Every time I talked to you, you mentioned how much you hated it.

BURKE
(distantly)
Yeah, that's true.

MELANSON
You've always said that if you could've found another way to pay for med
school you'd have taken it in a second.

BURKE
(still not really hearing him)
Yeah, I...did say that, didn't I?

MELANSON
(getting upset again)
Then, damn it, Meridith, why do you miss it so much?

BURKE
("snapping back to reality")
I don't know. I guess I expected a civilian job to be easier.

MELANSON
What did you expect a hospital to be like?!
(beat, really sarcastic)
Did you honestly expect it to be as _easy_ as working on the Navy's
flagship? You're making it more difficult than it really is.

At Melanson's last comment, Burke gets very upset; she's both angry and
hurt.

BURKE
(angry and sarcastic)
You probably wouldn't last one _day_ on that boat!
(beat)
But maybe because I had people around that actually _cared_, it was
easier for me to handle.

Burke and Melanson are both angry at each other and are getting
extremely sarcastic. They're starting to sound like little kids.

MELANSON
Oh, _really_? What's that supposed to mean?

BURKE
(huffily)
What do you think? Exactly what it sounds like.

MELANSON
(tightly)
Are you putting down what I have worked so hard to achieve? Are you
telling me that my years of medical training and hard work don't amount
to the proverbial hill of beans compared to your precious time on
_seaQuest_?

BURKE
No.
(beat)
I'm saying you couldn't possibly stand to work somewhere where you're a
subordinate to anyone.
(beat, under her breath)
Probably because you're such a big shot now.

Melanson hears her last comment, although Burke hadn't intended it.

MELANSON
You think you know everything just because you've worked in the Navy?
(beat)
Well, let me tell you something, _Doctor_ Burke. Just because you're an
M.D. _and_ have worked in the Navy, doesn't mean you suddenly know
everything.

Burke sees that this argument is going too far and tries to stop it from
getting any more out of hand than it already is.

BURKE
(exasperated)
I never said I knew everything.
(beat, carefully)
I'm simply stating that you probably wouldn't be able to handle working
on the _seaQuest_.

MELANSON
Oh, what makes you so sure?

BURKE
(simply)
I've been there. I know what it's like.

MELANSON
(not letting up)
Well, I think I could. Probably a lot better than you're handling your
job at the hospital right now.

Burke looks really hurt by his last remark.

BURKE
(quietly, looking away)
That was really unnecessary.

MELANSON
(trying to look her in the eye)
Yeah, but it's the truth, isn't it?

BURKE
(hurt, looking Melanson in the eye)
No, it isn't. You know it's one of my sensitive points and you're taking
advantage of it.

Melanson is about to retort, as caustically as he had before, but he
stops. What Burke said has struck a chord with him.

MELANSON
(sympathetic)
You're right. I _am_ just saying that to get you more angry.
(beat)
But that doesn't mean I'm not upset.
(beat)
Meri, I went through so much to get this job for you.
(beat)
I can't believe you would throw it all away because of a...a feeling.

Burke looks away, still upset. Melanson starts to say something, but
realizes that no matter what he'd say, she'd still be angry, so he
leaves. Burke sits there for a few moments, then drops her head into her
hands.

BURKE
What the hell is wrong with you, Meridith?
(beat)
Why can't you make up your mind?

A single tear rolls down her cheek as she sits there, miserable.

CUT TO ROSS'S OFFICE

Ross is still sitting at her desk, occasionally typing something on her
keyboard. It looks more like she's trying to keep herself occupied than
actually working. DeLano is sitting in a chair across from her desk,
fidgeting.

ROSS
(glancing out the window)
Damn it, where is he? What could be taking so long?
(beat, to DeLano)
I thought you said he was good at this kind of thing.

She goes back to the computer, scrolling through several pages, scanning
them.

DELANO
(soothingly)
Relax, Madame President. I told you, Wilkes is one of our best
operatives. He'll get what we need.
(beat)
Besides, he hasn't taken _that_ long.
(under his breath, worried)
Not yet, anyway.

DeLano looks uncertain of Wilkes' loyalty. Ross acts like she hasn't
heard his last comment, even though she has. She looks up at him, angry.

ROSS
Well, he'd better hurry up. He's wasting _my_ time by making me wait.

As Ross is speaking, there's a knock at the door.

ROSS
Come in.

James Wilkes, a tall man in his mid-twenties, enters with a disk in his
hands. He looks like the type who will do anything to earn his living,
no matter how many people he has to double cross.

WILKES
I think I've found what you've been looking for, Madame President.

Ross puts the disk into a drive and starts searching through the files.
DeLano watches her expectantly. As she's looking through them, Ross
suddenly stops. A cynical smile slowly spreads across her face.

DELANO
(anxious)
What is it?

ROSS
(cynically)
I've just found what I've been looking for.
(beat, explaining to DeLano)
It's a report from one of the border guards. Krieg was spotted crossing
the border carrying a little puppy dog. He claims he was bringing the
dog in as a present for a friend's kid.

WILKES
The guard was wondering what he should do -- since he wasn't sure if it
was illegal to be bringing the puppy in.

ROSS
It most certainly _is_ illegal.
(beat)
That dog could be bringing in some sort of disease that could kill us
all.

Ross pauses. She needs to come up with a good excuse to get Krieg out of
the way, quickly.

ROSS
(continuing)
Give word to all officers and guards, Benjamin Krieg is to be arrested
on charges of attempted biological warfare. And that dog is to be taken
to a veterinarian and euthanised.

WILKES
Yes, Madame President.

Wilkes leaves the room, looking indifferent to the order.

DELANO
(shocked)
Why the charge of attempted biological warfare?

ROSS
(somewhat condescending)
Think about it, Gary.
(beat, smiling cynically)
If the puppy is rabid or carrying some sort of deadly disease...

DeLano nods, understanding what she's getting at.

ROSS
(continuing)
Besides, Hitchcock will do _anything_ to save Krieg...especially since
they're engaged again. No matter what she tries, I can still declare it
an act of war.
(beat, smugly)
There's no way the UEO can beat us on this one.

CUT TO WOLENCZAK'S OFFICE

Wolenczak is standing on one side of his desk, glowering at Doctor Mark
Curcio who is on the other side, also glaring. There has obviously been
an argument going on for some time between the two. Wolenczak tries to
remain calm as he confirms what he has gone over almost three times with
Curcio.

WOLENCZAK
(angrily)
I have had so many complaints about your attitude toward this crew. Are
you denying that any of these accusations are false?

CURCIO
(coldly)
I am not trying to deny anything. I am simply stating that their
perception of me is --

WOLENCZAK
(cutting Curcio off, getting really agitated)
Then why the hell are you still arguing with me?!

CURCIO
(flustered)
I...

For once in his life, Curcio is struck speechless.

WOLENCZAK
(quickly, before he completely explodes)
You are dismissed, Doctor Curcio.

Curcio leaves and the mood in the room lightens a little as if most of
the anger Wolenczak felt left the room when Curcio did. Ensign Rebecca
Trueman calls Wolenczak over com.

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Sir, you have an incoming call.

WOLENCZAK
(quickly, some leftover anger in his voice)
Who is it, Ensign?

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Benjamin Krieg.

The mention of his old friend's name calms Wolenczak down and he begins
to relax.

WOLENCZAK
(smiling)
Put him through.

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Yes, Sir.

Trueman puts the call through and Benjamin Krieg appears on the screen.
Wolenczak grins, as does Krieg.

WOLENCZAK
Hey, Ben. It's great to hear from you again.

KRIEG
Same here, Lucas. So, what's new?

WOLENCZAK
(teasing)
Maybe you can tell me. Rumor has it you'll be hearing some bells pretty
soon.

KRIEG
(shaking his head in amazement)
So, Katie got to you before I did, didn't she?

WOLENCZAK
(still teasing)
What's the matter? First time wasn't good enough for you?

KRIEG
(good-natured)
Nah. Figured I could do it better a second time.
(beat)
I guess Katie agrees.

WOLENCZAK
(laughing)
Yeah, I guess so.
(beat)
So, when's the big day?

KRIEG
Actually, it's going to be sometime soon.
(beat)
We figured it would be better than a long engagement like we had last
time.
(beat, explaining)
That way the media doesn't start in on her. That's the _last_ thing
Katie needs right now.
(beat, wryly)
You know how the media can be.

WOLENCZAK
(sighing)
Yeah. They're relentless...

There's a knock at Wolenczak's hatch. Wolenczak rolls his eyes at Krieg,
smiling.

WOLENCZAK
(to Krieg)
Ah, the joys of being a captain. Now I know how Bridger must've felt.
(in the direction of the door)
Come in.

Ensign Anne Morgan enters, looking rather upset. Wolenczak sees this and
decides he really should talk to her.

WOLENCZAK
(quickly)
Um, listen, Ben, I'll talk to you later. Okay?

KRIEG
Yeah, sure. And hey, be careful out there.

Wolenczak rolls his eyes at Krieg's comment.

WOLENCZAK
(mock exasperation)
I'll talk to you later, Ben.

Krieg laughs. They disconnect and Wolenczak looks over at Morgan.

WOLENCZAK
(concerned)
Anne? What's wrong?
(beat)
Is it Curcio again?

MORGAN
(sighing)
Yeah, more insults, more rudeness. The usual stuff.
(beat)
It's just so frustrating, Lucas.

WOLENCZAK
(nodding)
I understand.

MORGAN
Have you spoken with someone about replacing Curcio?

Wolenczak shakes his head.

WOLENCZAK
(hesitating)
Well, yes and no.

MORGAN
(confused)
What do you mean, "yes and no"?

WOLENCZAK
(slowly)
Well, I did talk to Secretary General Hitchcock...

He hesitates even more, not sure if he really should tell her.

MORGAN
(exasperated)
Why do I sense that there's going to be a "but" here?

WOLENCZAK
(finishing off)
...But not about a replacement.

MORGAN
Why not? You promised to talk to her!

WOLENCZAK
Well, that _was_ my intention when I first called, but she seemed a
little upset.
(beat)
I didn't want to give her any more grief. You understand what I mean,
right?

MORGAN
(slowly)
Yeah, I understand.
(pausing briefly)
But not completely. Look, I know that you don't want to hurt her,
especially since you've been friends for so long, but this _is_
important. The welfare of everyone on board may be at stake here.

WOLENCZAK
How so?

Morgan pulls a chair up to Wolenczak's desk.

MORGAN
(sitting)
You know Curcio is driving everyone insane, right?

WOLENCZAK
Yeah, basically.

MORGAN
I don't think you'd want to be working with a crew that's completely
loony. Do you?

WOLENCZAK
(with a straight face, but teasing)
Loony? Is that a technical term, Ensign?

MORGAN
(smiling)
Clinically insane. Is that better, Captain?

WOLENCZAK
(smiling back)
I suppose so.
(beat, seriously)
So how do you propose I convince the chain of command to send Curcio
somewhere else?

MORGAN
I don't know, Lucas. But something needs to be done.
(beat)
Just yesterday, Percell told me he lectured her about being careful with
the weights and everything in the weight room.

WOLENCZAK
(confused)
So how's that a problem?

MORGAN
Sara hasn't been in the weight room since last week! She was sitting in
the rec room, reading, when Curcio just walked over to her and started
lecturing.

Wolenczak looks at her, surprised.

WOLENCZAK
(shocked)
He did what?!

MORGAN
This is starting to get really unbearable. I don't know how much longer
I, or the rest of the crew for that matter, can handle this.

WOLENCZAK
(helpless)
What do you want me to do, Anne?

MORGAN
Just get Curcio off this boat.

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT ONE


===========================  PART 2  =====================================


ACT TWO

CUT TO WOLENCZAK'S OFFICE

All is as before.

MORGAN
Look, I don't mean to sound demanding, but this is important. Not only 
to me, but to the rest of the crew.

WOLENCZAK
I know, but how am I going to convince Hitchcock?

MORGAN
(simply)
You're friends, right?

WOLENCZAK
("what are you getting at?")
Yeah, so?

MORGAN
So you should be able to tell her what's really going on.

WOLENCZAK
If I start asking for favors she'll think something's up.

Morgan looks confused.

WOLENCZAK
(explaining)
I rarely ask for favors and when I do, I'm usually pretty desperate.
(beat)
That's when she knows I'm vulnerabele.

MORGAN
(sensibly)
You'll never know unless you try.
(beat, teasing)
Maybe if you can look pathetic enough, she might take pity on you.

Wolenczak just stares at her. He can hardly believe the changes that
have come over Morgan recently.

MORGAN
(self-consciously)
What? What is it?

WOLENCZAK
(smiling)
Nothing. I was just amazed at how much you've changed recently. I mean,
you're so much more open and friendly to everyone.
(beat)
When you first came aboard, I don't think anyone, myself included, quite
knew what to make of you because you were so quiet and closed in.

MORGAN
And your point is...?

WOLENCZAK
(easily)
I just think it's great that you're finally allowing yourself to open up
a little while you're on duty.

Wolenczak and Morgan smile at each other for a moment.

WOLENCZAK
(thinking aloud)
Well, every time I've tried to get to Katie about something recently, 
I've been cut off.
(beat, sighs)
And she's probably not really the appropriate person for this, anyway. 
I wish she was; it's make this a hell of a lot easier.
(beat)
I guess I'm not going to be able to call in a personal favor on this 
one.
(beat, deciding)
I'd better try Admiral Robinson.

MORGAN
(excitedly)
Oh, would you?
(beat, grinning)
You'll have the whole crew worshipping at your feet if you do!

WOLENCZAK
(teasing her, trying to get on her nerves)
Would you like me to?

MORGAN
(rolling her eyes)
Of course I want you to!

Wolenczak starts reaching towards the vidlink and he's about to punch 
buttons when he stops. He glances at Morgan, looking quite serious, but 
he's obviously trying to have some fun with her.

WOLENCZAK
(seriously)
Are you sure--

MORGAN
(cutting him off)
Yes! Just call already!

Wolenczak grins at her and punches in a code. Admiral Wallace Robinson
answers.

ROBINSON
(curiously)
Captain Wolenczak? Is something wrong?

WOLENCZAK
Yes. I don't want to beat around the bush, so I'll get straight
to the point. I have had numerous complaints from my crew about my CMO,
Doctor Mark Curcio.

ROBINSON
(nodding)
Ah, yes. The infamous Doctor Curcio. His reputation precedes him.
(beat, as if he couldn't guess based on Curcio's reputation)
What would be the nature of these complaints?

WOLENCZAK
(glancing at Morgan, who's out of Robinson's view)
He is endangering the morale of my crew. I have had one crewmember 
attempt to resign as a result of his attitude towards her.
(beat, sighing)
It's gotten to the point where most of my crew would rather remain 
injured than go to MedBay for treatment.

Robinson has been sitting back in his chair, patiently listening to
Wolenczak's explanation. He leans forward as if he were going to say
something, but stops himself when he realizes that Wolenczak's not
finished. Wolenczak's about as close to whining as he can be without 
being insubordinate.

WOLENCZAK
(continuing)
And I've talked to Secretary General Hitchcock about this several times.
All she's ever told me was to "suck it up" and deal with it.

Robinson sighs.

ROBINSON
That's because its not her job to deal with these things.
(beat, to the point)
Captain, have you forgotten that as the CO, you have a say as to who 
stays and goes if there is a problem?
(beat)
Especially if it interferes with the duties of your crew.

WOLENCZAK
(sighing)
To tell you the truth, yes, I had forgotten. I guess it's one thing I
never really came across before since none of the COs I've ever served
under has had to do this.

ROBINSON
Well, you can.

Wolenczak looks extremely relived. Robinson looks like he's waiting for
Wolenczak to ask him something. When Wolenczak doesn't catch on to this,
Robinson decides to coax Wolenczak along a bit.

ROBINSON
(prompting)
Would you like me to send a replacement CMO?

WOLENCZAK
(confused)
What?
(beat, catching on)
Oh, yes. As soon as possible. Thank you.

ROBINSON
I'll start searching for a replacement and I'll get back to you when I
have one.

Wolenczak nods politely. Robinson leans over and closes the connection.
Wolenczak looks over at Morgan and smiles.

WOLENCZAK
Well?

Morgan just smiles back. Looking at her watch, she gets up from her 
chair and Wolenczak does the same. She starts towards the hatch and he 
walks over with her. She starts to open the hatch and then turns back to 
look at Wolenczak, smiling.

MORGAN
I've got to be running. I'm on duty in a few minutes.
(beat)
Thank you so much, Lucas. You don't know how much this means.

There's an uncomfortable moment of silence.

WOLENCZAK
No problem.

Morgan grins leaves, closing the hatch behind her. Wolenczak looks after
her and shakes his head, smiling.

CUT TO HITCHCOCK'S OFFICE

Hitchcock is sitting at her desk looking through some files on her
computer. She looks like she's just starting to relax.

SECRETARY
(over com)
Madame Secretary...

HITCHCOCK
Yes, what is it?

SECRETARY
You have another call. It's from a...Doctor Meridith Burke.

Hitchcock shakes her head and sighs. Why would _she_ be calling?

HITCHCOCK
It never ends, does it?
(beat)
Did she say what she wanted?

SECRETARY
No, she didn't.
(beat)
Shall I put her through?

HITCHCOCK
(sighs)
Yes.

Hitchcock settles into her chair as the vidlink screen activates.

BURKE
Hello, Madame Secretary.

HITCHCOCK
(trying to be polite)
Hello, Doctor Burke. What can I do for you?

BURKE
(uncertain)
I was hoping to ask a favor of you. I mean, if it's not too much
trouble or anything.
(beat)
I would like to know if I can be reinstated to the _seaQuest_ as a
member of the crew.

Burke looks down, timidly.

HITCHCOCK
(sighing)
You really shouldn't have called here asking to be reinstated. There 
_is_ a chain of command and there _are_ people whose job is is to handle 
this.

Burke takes in what Hitchcock has said and looks down, crestfallen.

BURKE
(apologetically, trying to remain calm)
I'm sorry to have disturbed you, Madame Secrtary. I guess I thought
since you and Captain Wolenczak are so close...

HITCHCOCK
(cutting her off)
But since you've called, I guess I'll have to handle some of this 
myself.
(beat)
I'm sorry to have to be the one to inform you of this, Doctor Burke, but 
I can't reinstate you unless you're _active_ military personnel. They're 
the only ones allowed to be assigned to the crew.

BURKE
(hopeful)
I thought civilians would be allowed, seeing as how the captain himself
was one once.

HITCHCOCK
In case you hadn't noticed, we are _still_ in conflict with the
Carolinans.
(beat)
I can't have civilians, even those with clearance, aboard the flagship
with the type of top secret information that goes through there.
(beat, remembering Hunter)
It seems I even have to be careful with _officers_ these days.

BURKE
(desperate)
Please, Madame Secretary. I've been doing a lot of thinking recently and
I realize I made a huge mistake in leaving the _seaQuest_ in the first
place.
(beat)
Put me back on active duty if you must, but I would just like to return 
as CMO of _seaQuest_.

HITCHCOCK
(hesitating)
Well, I don't know..

BURKE
Being on the _seaQuest_ was one of the best experiences anyone could 
ever ask for. No self-respecting person would give up a wonderful job 
like that.
(beat)
I guess I took it for granted while I was there. I've tried to make
things work out at the hospital, but my heart is telling me I made the
wrong choice when I chose to leave the _seaQuest_.

Burke pauses, trying not to look too desperate.

BURKE
(continues)
I guess I understand what Javert was talking about in "Les Miserables".
(beat)
I've paid my price for leaving the _seaQuest_ in the first place. I'm 
only asking for the same thing that Valjean desired -- a second chance.
(beat, to herself)
And only after hearing Morgan play that soundtrack a million times would 
I ever make that connection.

HITCHCOCK
I'll see what I can do. I'll pass this on to my CNO, Admiral Robinson, 
and he'll get back to you.

BURKE
Oh, yes, I understand.
(beat)
Thank you, Madame Secretary.

Hitchcock breaks the connection and runs her hands through her hair. She 
turns on her television, hoping she can find something to take her mind 
off her day. She shifts in her chair and starts watching an old sitcom.

HITCHCOCK
(sighs)
What a day.
(beat)
It can't get any worse.

She continues watching the show, her mind wandering. A minute later, the
show is interrupted with a breaking news report that brings her back to
reality. A news anchor is sitting at a news desk reading something that 
has just been handed to him.

OFF TELEVISION

ANCHOR
Reliable sources within the Ross administration have indicated that a 
major threat to the security of the Carolinan Confederation was narrowly 
averted today. Reports are still sketchy, but sources indicate that the
perpetrator of this threat has been taken into custody. The nature of 
the threat is still not known, and official sources within the Ross
administration have made no comment at this time. Stay tuned to GNN for
further details as they become available.

The screen returns to the television program, forgotten in the 
background. Hitchcock has gotten up and moved over to her vidlink. She 
punches in a combination and the vidlink connection opens to show an 
Lieutenant in a busy office. He looks at Hitchcock through the vidlink,
all business.

LIEUTENANT
Intelligence Duty Office. What can I do for you, Ma'am?

HITCHCOCK
I need all info on what this threat was to the Carolinan Confederation, 
and what they are doing about it. The report just was on GNN.
(beat)
I want a briefing delivered to me in an hour.

LIEUTENANT
Right away, Ma'am.

The Lieutenant closes the vidlink connection, as Hitchcock starts to 
pace. The news anchor interrupts the program again, drawing Hitchcock's
attention immediately.

REPORTER
GNN has just recieved confimation that a major biological threat to the
Carolinan Confederation was narrowly averted today. Minutes ago, the
following statement was issued by the Ross administration's spokesman, 
Gary DeLano.
(beat, reading)
"The Carolinan Confederation today took into custody a Mister Benjamin
Krieg, a former UEO Naval lieutenant. As this is an ongoing 
investigation, we are unable to release additional details at this time, 
but rest assured President Ross is aware of the situation and is 
monitoring it closely."
(beat)
GNN will continue to monitor this developing story and will provide
additional informaton as it becomes available.

OFF HITCHCOCK

The station switches back to the show. Hitchcock looks pale, as if she's
going to collapse from the shock. She lowers the volume on the
television.

HITCHCOCK
(numbly)
What...
(beat)
How could this have happened? What could he have possibly...
(beat)
Oh, Ben. What did you do now?

Hitchcock drops her head into her hands and breathes deeply. She appears
to have gone numb from the shock. When she raises her head, she calls 
her contact in the Carolinan Confederation, Robert Collins. Collins is a
young man in his late 20s. He's about 6 feet tall with medium brown hair
and brown eyes.

COLLINS
(pleasantly)
Good afternoon, Madame Secretary. What can I do for you?

HITCHCOCK
(straight to the point)
Robert, I need you to confirm something for me.

COLLINS
Sure, what is it?

HITCHCOCK
I heard that Benjamin Krieg has been arrested.
(beat)
Is it true?

COLLINS
Yes, yes it is. Why?

HITCHCOCK
He's a...

She hesitates, not sure how to explain her relationship to Krieg at this
point. Then she realizes that it's probably out in the media anyway, so
why not just say it?

HITCHCOCK
(flatly)
He's my fiance.

COLLINS
(sincerely)
Oh, I'm sorry. Is there anything I can do?

HITCHCOCK
Just keep me informed.
(beat)
I'm going to do what I can from here.

She hangs up and buzzes her secretary.

SECRETARY
(over com)
Yes?

HITCHCOCK
Get Captain Wolenczak on the vidlink. I need to speak with him
immediately.

SECRETARY
What should I tell him?

HITCHCOCK
Just tell him we need to talk.
(beat)
And tell him it's urgent.

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT TWO


===========================  PART 3  =====================================


ACT THREE

FADE IN TO HITCHCOCK'S OFFICE

Hitchcock and Wolenczak are speaking via vidlink. She's still in shock,
but he seems to have calmed her down a little. She's definitely more
composed than when she first heard the news.

WOLENCZAK
(calmly)
So, the only thing you know is that Ben has been arrested. You haven't
heard anything else?

HITCHCOCK
(nervous)
No, nothing yet.
(beat)
Lucas, I'm worried. What could he have done to get himself arrested?

WOLENCZAK
Who knows?
(beat, trying to be humorous)
Maybe he was trying to sell some glowing fish poop to President Ross.

HITCHCOCK
(exasperated)
Lucas, please.

WOLENCZAK
C'mon Katie, give me a break. I'm trying to cheer you up here.

HITCHCOCK
I appreciate that, Lucas, but what I need is to figure out a way to get
Ben out of that prison.
(beat)
Whatever he could have done couldn't have been _that_ bad. For them to
hold him without bail the crime has to be pretty serious.
(beat)
He's pulled some stupid stunts before, but...

As she's talking to Wolenczak, another breaking news brief appears on 
the television. Hitchcock turns up the volume so they can both hear it. 
She switches to a split-screen so she can see both the report and 
Wolenczak.

ANCHOR
We have just received more information pertaining to the arrest of
Benjamin Krieg.

HITCHCOCK
(softly)
Oh, God.

OFF TELEVISION SCREEN

ANCHOR
According to a spokesperson for the Ross administration, Krieg is being
held on charges of attempted biological warfare, terrorism, and
possession of a deadly weapon.

OFF HITCHCOCK

Hitchcock's jaw drops as she hears this, surprised and in shock.

OFF TELEVISION SCREEN

ANCHOR
Bail has not been set and there is still no indication of what type of
weapon was found in his possession. We will update you as details come 
in.

OFF HITCHCOCK

The station returns to the show and Hitchcock turns to Wolenczak,
determined.

HITCHCOCK
Lucas, I want you to take the _seaQuest_ into Carolinan waters and get
Ben out of that prison.
(beat, barely in control of her emotions)
They have no right to hold him there.

WOLENCZAK
(shocked)
Katie, are you crazy?! You haven't even taken the time to think this
through. This is really irrational...

HITCHCOCK
(angrily)
I most certainly am not crazy.
(beat)
Ben would _never_ do anything even remotely _close_ to what they're
accusing him of.
(beat)
And what kind of deadly weapon could he possibly be carrying?

WOLENCZAK
I can't put my crew into danger...

HITCHCOCK
(cutting him off)
What, Ben's friendship means nothing to you? His _life_ is in danger and
you're more worried about your _crew_?
(beat, sarcastically)
Nice. Real nice, Lucas.

WOLENCZAK
(calmly, he doesn't want to start a fight)
Of course Ben means something to me. He and I have been friends for a 
long time.
(beat)
But if we go into Carolinan waters, it'll be seen as a provocation for
war. We'll practically be asking for them to start shooting at us!

HITCHCOCK
(sarcastic)
So you're more worried about them shooting at you than in saving your
friend's life?

WOLENCZAK
(patiently)
Katie, you've said it yourself, the _seaQuest_ shouldn't be used for
personal reasons.

HITCHCOCK
(getting angry)
I am your commander-in-chief and I gave you an order, Captain Wolenczak. 
I expect you to obey it.

WOLENCZAK
(still trying to reason with her)
Madame Secretary, with all due respect, this is ridiculous! You have to
think about the UEO as well! I can't just order my crew into Carolinan
waters...

HITCHCOCK
(cattily, cutting him off)
Oh, so you're willing to put their lives on the line for people that
you've never met, but not a friend. That makes a lot of sense, Captain.

WOLENCZAK
That's not the point.
(beat, dejected)
I just can't do it.

HITCHCOCK
(almost yelling)
I gave you an order!
(beat, tightly)
If you do not obey it, I will have Lieutenant Commander Matthews
permanently relieve you of command and you will be thrown into the brig
for insubordination.

Hitchcock angrily cuts the vidlink connection.

CUT TO WOLENCAK'S OFFICE

Wolenczak breathes deeply and sighs.

WOLENCZAK
(quietly)
What's wrong with you, Katie? Why are you being so irrational?

He starts pacing the floor, trying to figure out what he should do.
Lieutenant J.G. Justin Riller is passing by and sees Wolenczak pacing 
and talking to himself. Wolenczak's hatch is slightly open.

RILLER
(sticking his head in the hatch)
Are you all right, Captain?

Wolenczak looks up, surprised to see Riller there.

WOLENCZAK
Oh, Lieutenant Riller. Yes, everything's fine.
(beat, curiously)
Why do you ask?

Wolenczak isn't being very convincing. Riller looks at him, silently
asking permission to enter. Wolenczak nods. Riller enters and shuts the
hatch.

RILLER
(slowly)
Well, I was passing by and I saw you pacing around.
(beat)
Are you _sure_ everything's okay?

Wolenczak looks at him for a moment, wondering if he can trust Riller
enough to tell him the truth. He finally decides he needs someone to 
talk to.

WOLENCZAK
(sighing)
I'm caught in a Catch 22 situation, Lieutenant. Do I follow an order...
(beat)
...Or do I follow through on what I feel is right?

Riller nods, understanding what Wolenczak's saying, but his expression 
is still one of concern and worry.

RILLER
I really don't know what to tell you, Captain.
(beat)
Is there anyone you really feel comfortable enough to discuss this
situation with?
(quickly)
I mean, I'd like to help, but I'm not exactly the person who can.

WOLENCZAK
(quietly, thinking)
Hmmm....
(beat)
I wonder what Captain Bridger would do...

RILLER
Well, Sir, I'm on my way to the bridge.
(beat, suggesting)
If you'd like, I could ask Trueman to put a call through to Mister 
Bridger for you, Sir.

WOLENCZAK
Thank you, Lieutenant. I'd appreciate that.

RILLER
(shrugging)
Hey, no problem.
(beat, quickly, as an afterthought)
Sir.

He starts to leave, but when he reaches the hatch, he stops and turns to
face Wolenczak.

RILLER
Oh, and Captain...

WOLENCZAK
Yes?

RILLER
I think I speak for the rest of the crew when I say we're all behind 
you.
(beat)
No matter what decision you make.

WOLENCZAK
Thank you, Lieutenant Riller.

Riller smiles at Wolenczak and leaves the room. Wolenczak walks to a 
chair and sits down, still looking frustrated.

CUT TO BRIDGE

Lieutenant Commander Jessie Matthews is in the command chair and Trueman
is sitting at the communications console.  Riller relieves Matthews and
starts walking around the bridge.  He stops when he reaches Trueman's
station.

RILLER
Becca, I need you to put a call through.

TRUEMAN
To who?

RILLER
Nathan Bridger.

Trueman looks at Riller, confused. He quickly explains.

RILLER
It's for Captain Wolenczak.

TRUEMAN
Isn't he supposed to be able to handle that kind of thing from his
office?

RILLER
(slightly annoyed)
I can't explain the reasons to you. Just put the call through, Ensign.
(beat)
As soon as you get him, let me know. I need to speak to him before he
speaks with Captain Wolenczak.

TRUEMAN
(softly)
Justin, is everything okay?

RILLER
(quietly)
I don't know, Becca. I really don't know.

Riller continues with his rounds as Trueman starts working at her 
console. Moments later, Nathan Bridger appears on the screen.

BRIDGER
Yes?

TRUEMAN
Mister Bridger, I have a request from Lieutenant Riller to speak with 
you.

BRIDGER
(looking confused)
Okay.

Trueman puts him on hold and catches Riller's eye. She starts talking to
him through her headset.

TRUEMAN
(through the headset)
I've got Mister Bridger, Lieutenant.

RILLER
Thank you, Ensign.

Riller cuts the channel and Trueman transfers the call to another 
console. Riller approaches it and switches it from hold.

RILLER
(unsucessfully trying to hide his concern)
Mister Bridger, it's good to see you.

BRIDGER
(concerned)
Likewise, Lieutenant.
(beat, seeing the expression on Riller's face)
Is everything all right?

RILLER
I'm afraid that's what I'm calling about. I just spoke with Captain
Wolenczak a few minutes ago and he seemed very...oh, I don't know. I 
think something between frustrated and upset might explain how he 
looked.
(beat)
I'm a little concerned about him. I thought maybe he might feel a little
better after speaking with you.

BRIDGER
Lieutenant, I think you're crossing the line by judging your CO like 
that.

Riller realizes Bridger is right and his expression becomes pained.
He tries unsuccessfully to hide it, but Bridger notices it anyway.

BRIDGER
(gently)
But I think I can understand your reasons. Thanks for letting me know.

RILLER
I'll put you through.

Riller puts Bridger on hold and calls Wolenczak over the com.

CUT TO WOLENCZAK'S OFFICE

Wolenczak is sitting in a chair, trying to relax.

RILLER
(over com)
Captain Wolenczak, I've got Mister Bridger on the vidlink for you.

WOLENCZAK
Thank you, Lieutenant Riller.

Riller puts the call through to Wolencak's office and Bridger appears on
the screen.

WOLENZAK
Captain, it's good to see you.

Wolenczak's voice trails off as whatever frustration he was trying to 
hide returns.

BRIDGER
Is everything okay, Lucas?

Wolenczak immediately puts the facade back on and he tries to look
happy.

WOLENCZAK
Yeah, everything's fine.

BRIDGER
You sound like Katie -- when there's a problem, she just starts denying
there is one.

WOLENCZAK
(distantly)
Katie...

BRIDGER
(making the connection)
Does this have something to do with her?

WOLENCZAK
(sounding slightly annoyed)
I told you, everything's fine.

BRIDGER
I've known you since you were sixteen, Lucas. You can't lie to me.

Wolenczak opens his mouth to protest, but realizes Bridger's right
and drops the facade.

WOLENCZAK
(giving in)
You're right, I can't keep a secret from you. Not after you've been like
a father to me for so many years.
(beat, sighing)
There _is_ something wrong. And it _does_ involve Katie.

BRIDGER
So what is it?

WOLENCZAK
I don't know if you've spoken to either Ben or Katie recently, but 
they're engaged again.

BRIDGER
(pleasantly surprised)
Again? She told me she'd never go through it again. And _definitely_ not
with Ben.
(beat, confused)
That's what's bothering you?

WOLENCZAK
No. Katie and I had been talking earlier today about the engagement, but
she had some things to do, so she said she'd call later.

BRIDGER
And did she call?

WOLENCZAK
Yeah, she did, but she had just heard some really disturbing news. The
Carolinans had arrested Ben for some reason or another.
(beat)
When she first called, the reasons for his arrest hadn't been disclosed,
but as we were talking, a news report came on that he'd been arrested
for attempted biological warfare, terrorism and possession of a deadly 
weapon.

Bridger looks confused for a moment, then the implications behind what
Wolenczak has said sink in.

BRIDGER
(increasing shock)
Biological warfare?
(beat)
Terrorism?
(beat)
Possession of a deadly weapon?
(beat)
_Krieg_?!

WOLENCZAK
Yeah, that was pretty much my reaction. I mean, that's not like him at
all.

BRIDGER
You're right. Krieg wouldn't do anything like that.

WOLENCZAK
Well, Katie started _really_ overreacting to this.

BRIDGER
How so?

WOLENCZAK
(flatly)
She ordered _seaQuest_ into Carolinan waters to retrieve Ben.

BRIDGER
(shocked)
She _what_?

WOLENCZAK
You can see where my problem is. I'm not sure what I should do.
(beat)
I mean, Ben _is_ a really close friend and we've kept in touch over the
years. And Katie _is_ the secretary general and she _did_ give me an
order.
(beat)
But I don't know if this is one of those times I should disobey the 
order of a superior. After all, she didn't exactly seem like she was 
thinking rationally when she gave me the order.

Bridger sighs, searching for what to say.

BRIDGER
Lucas, I'm going to tell you the same thing I told you when you were at
Node Three. I didn't know the circumstances then, or what the situation
was, but I think the same principle applies here.
(beat)
How we affect other people is the mark we leave on the world. That's
what everyone is going to remember. Once you know what the message that 
you want to send into the future is, then you'll know what to do.

WOLENCZAK
But that's my problem. I don't know what my message is. I don't know 
what I want to say.
(beat)
If I disobey her order, it'll be like I'm letting down two of my closest
friends. But if I obey her, I'll be letting down the organization that
I'm sworn to protect as the captain of its flagship.

BRIDGER
Lucas, this is a decision I can't make for you. You've got to look 
inside yourself and see what's really important.
(beat)
But I can tell you this, friendships heal faster than confederations.  
True friends understand the good intentions behind actions. 
Unfortunately, most politicians put that aside when they take office.

Wolenczak nods; he understands what Bridger's trying to say.

BRIDGER
(continuing)
I'm not telling you to disobey Katie's order, but rather that you should
really think about what you're going to do.
(beat)
Just look at the situation from every angle. There's always a way around
things -- even if it doesn't look like it.

WOLENCZAK
Thank you, Captain. I really appreciate this.

BRIDGER
Any time, Lucas. You know I'm always there for you.

They smile at each other and each cuts their connection. Wolenczak runs
his hands through his hair. He looks over at his desk and sees _The Red
Badge of Courage_ sitting on it. He walks over to the desk, picks up the
book and opens the cover, looking at Hudson's signature.

WOLENCZAK
(ironically)
Yeah, and what would you do?

He slams the cover shut and drops the book back on his desk, still
looking at it. The camera moves in on the book.

WOLENCZAK
(V.O., off book cover)
Well, I'm glad _you're_ enjoying this. 'Cause I'm not.

The camera pulls back as Wolenczak sighs and drops into his chair.  He 
closes his eyes and breathes deeply. When he opens his eyes, he sits up
and begins working at his computer. Curcio knocks on the hatch and
Wolenczak looks up. When he sees who's there, he steels himself for what
he's about to do.

WOLENCZAK
(calmly)
Come in.

Curcio walks in, a sour expression on his face, like he's just eaten a
lemon.

CURCIO
(slightly annoyed)
I was told you wanted to speak with me, Sir.

WOLENCZAK
(trying to remain civil)
Yes, I do.
(stops typing and turns to face Curcio)
As you know, there have been numerous protests about your attitude 
towards the crew.

CURCIO
("why are we going through this again?")
Yes, I know.

WOLENCZAK
As of late, the number has increased.

Curcio looks at Wolenczak as if to say, "and your point would be?"

WOLENCZAK
(continuing)
Each complaint I receive shows a significant decrease in the crew's
morale.

CURCIO
("get to the point already")
What are you trying to say, Captain Wolenczak?

WOLENCZAK
(slowly standing, barely restraining his anger)
What I am saying, Doctor Curcio, is that every time you open your mouth, 
I hear another complaint from another crewmember about what you have 
said.
(beat, standing rigidly, not restraining himself anymore)
I have had it!

Wolenczak realizes he has just about lost control and quickly regains 
his composure.

WOLENCZAK
(icily)
Doctor Curcio, you are relieved of your duties as _seaQuest_'s Chief
Medical Officer, effective immediately. I have a replacement CMO being
sent from UEO command. Dismissed.

Curcio is, yet again, struck speechless. He looks at Wolenczak with an
expression on his face that is a cross between shock and anger.

CUT TO BURKE'S APARTMENT

Burke is on the vidlink to Robinson's office. She's been put on hold and
is starting to look very anxious.

BURKE
C'mon. I _really_ need to know!

Robinson finally picks up his end of the line and doesn't look too
pleased.

ROBINSON
I'm sorry to keep you waiting. What can I do for you, Doctor Burke?

BURKE
(desperate)
Admiral Robinson, I really need to know if you're going to reassign me
to the _seaQuest_ or not.

Robinson has a look on his face like he has a million and one things on
his mind and really doesn't have the time to deal with this.

ROBINSON
Just let me finish looking over your record.

Robinson looks down and starts scrolling through a file on his computer.
Burke is starting to get even more impatient.

ROBINSON
Hmm. It doesn't look like you've had anything on your record that could
persuade me otherwise.
(beat)
I don't think there should be any problem reinstating you at your 
previous rank as Lieutenant Commander.

Robinson looks back up at Burke who is looking at him expectantly.

ROBINSON
However, there already is a CMO on _seaQuest_.

Burke's spirits fall and she looks extremely disappointed. Robinson
smiles as he continues.

ROBINSON
(continuing)
However, that's about to change.

Burke looks at Robinson, hopeful.

ROBINSON
The orders to _seaQuest_ are yours. On one condition. You don't say a
word to anyone on _seaQuest_ about your reassignment.

Burke looks confused.

ROBINSON
(smiling mischievously)
Let's just keep this as our little secret until you arrive. I want to be
able to surprise Captain Wolenczak with this one.

BURKE
(grinning widely)
Oh, thank you, Admiral Robinson. You won't regret this.

Robinson disconnects and Burke sits there, grinning.

CUT TO CAROLINAN PRISON

Krieg is sitting in a jail cell trying to get the attention of one of 
the guards.

KRIEG
C'mon! What did I do?
(beat)
What did I do to get myself arrested?

The guard doesn't answer.

KRIEG
Look, as far as I know, I haven't done anything remotely illegal. Why
won't you just _tell_ me?

He looks about ready to give up when another guard comes in and replaces
the one that was on duty. Krieg tries again.

KRIEG
Hey, maybe you can tell me. Why have I been arrested? Why am I being 
kept here?

The guard turns towards him.

GUARD
Look, I have no idea. They just pay us to keep an eye on prisoners. They
never tell us what's going on.
(beat)
We usually have to find out for ourselves.

KRIEG
Why don't you tell me what you _do_ know.

GUARD
From what I've heard, Secretary General Hitchcock has ordered _seaQuest_
to try to rescue you.

KRIEG
(to himself)
Katie would really do that? She'd put her reputation on the line for
_me_?
(to guard)
How do you know?

GUARD
Well, once President Ross got the information, DeLano held one of those
press conferences he's so famous for.

KRIEG
So who told Ross about the order?

The guard doesn't say anything.

KRIEG
(persuasive)
Ah, c'mon. It's already out in the media. Everyone else in the world
knows. What would be the harm in telling me?

The guard considers this.

GUARD
You really want to know?

KRIEG
I wouldn't be asking if I didn't.

The guard doesn't say anything.

KRIEG
Well, what are you waiting for?

GUARD
(innocently)
Dramatic pause.

The guard is obviously being a wiseguy. Krieg is starting to look
annoyed.

GUARD
Okay, okay. This guy can't take a joke!
(to Krieg)
It was Captain Lucas Wolenczak of the _seaQuest_.

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT THREE


===========================  PART 4  =====================================


ACT FOUR

FADE IN TO DOCKING BAY

Wolenczak, Morgan, Percell, Trueman and Reede are waiting in the docking
bay as the UEO shuttle docks with the _seaQuest_. Burke steps out of the
shuttle, grinning. Everyone looks surprised to see her. No one expected
to see her coming on board as Curcio's replacement. Morgan looks like
she wants to run over to Burke and give her a huge hug, but stops 
hreself. She doesn't want to create a scene. Everyone is smiling.

WOLENCZAK
(surprised, shaking hands with Burke)
Doctor Burke? I had no idea...
(beat, warmly)
It's good to have you back.

BURKE
(happily)
It's good to be back, Captain.

Morgan finally gives in to her urge and "attacks" Burke, almost knocking
her over.

MORGAN
(excited)
Welcome back!

BURKE
(genuinely, hugging Morgan)
Anne! Good to see you!
(beat, hugging each one in turn)
Sara, Becca, Tom! Oh, I've missed you guys so much!

Burke steps back and looks at each one of them. She seems happier than
she has in a while.

REEDE
It's good to have you back, Doctor Burke...

PERCELL
(cutting in)
Curcio was starting to drive all of us nuts!

As Percell is talking, Curcio makes his way through to the Docking Bay
with all of his equipment, Riller following close behind, almost herding
him towards the launch.

CURCIO
(curtly)
It's nice to see I have been accepted on this boat despite the short
amount of time I have been here.

Percell whirls around and sees Curcio standing right behind her. She
stands there in shock, her mouth open. Everyone else in the Docking Bay
tenses up.

CURCIO
Don't look so surprised, Chief. I know what everyone on this boat has
been saying about me since I got here.
(beat, icily)
It's just too bad you've been mothered for your entire time in the Navy.
Or else you might have been able to understand where I've been coming
from.

WOLENCZAK
(stepping in)
That's quite enough, Doctor Curcio. I don't need you patronizing my
crew any further.
(under his breath)
As if you haven't done enough damage already.

Everyone but Curcio hears Wolenczak's last comment. Percell and Trueman
try to stifle their giggles.

MORGAN
(sweetly)
Do you have all of your equipment, Doctor Curcio? I'd really hate for 
you to forget anything.
(beat, quietly to Percell)
Then he'd have to come back to get whatever it is he left behind.

Percell can't help herself and erupts into giggles. Wolenczak shoots a
stern look over at her. He's not really angry at her, but he's trying to
keep everything -- and everyone -- under control. Wolenczak knows how
tense everything is and is trying to ease some of the tension.  Percell 
forces herself to calm down, but she's trying not to look at Morgan, or 
else she's likely to start laughing again.

BURKE
(quietly, warning)
Sara...

CURCIO
Yes, I believe I have everything.

Curcio turns to Wolenczak and extends his hand.

CURCIO
(with a cold politeness)
Good-bye Captain Wolenczak. It has been a pleasure serving here on the
_seaQuest_ with you.
(beat)
My only regret is I cannot stay longer.

TRUEMAN
(quietly, to Reede)
Yeah, I'm sure he regrets not staying.

REEDE
(to Trueman, just as quietly)
About as much as he considers it a pleasure to have been here.

Riller overhears this and turns around to see Trueman and Reede joking
around. He gets upset by this and leaves without anyone noticing.

WOLENCZAK
(trying not to overdo it, but not really meaning it)
Well, it was a pleasure having you aboard, Doctor Curcio. Perhaps our
paths will cross some time in the future.
(beat, handing Curcio a disk)
Here are your travel orders. When you arrive at UEO Headquarters you are
to report to Admiral Robinson. He will inform you of where you are to be
reassigned.

Curcio takes the disk and enters the launch that Burke has just come out
of. As soon as the hatch is shut behind Curcio, whatever tension that 
has been there since he arrived in the Docking Bay is lifted like a 
curse has been dispelled. Everyone is smiling again. Reede and Wolenczak 
pick up some of Burke's equipment and start to carry it to MedBay.

WOLENCZAK
(straining under two boxes)
Don't worry, Doctor Burke.
(beat, grunting)
I think Reede and I can handle bringing this stuff to MedBay.

REEDE
(also straining because of the weight)
Yeah, we've got it.

BURKE
(laughing, to the others)
I don't believe this.

Trueman and Percell start laughing hysterically, while Morgan and Burke
just smile and shake their heads in amusement as both Wolenczak and 
Reede stagger out of the Docking Bay. Reede and Wolenczak look like 
they're about to fall over from the weight of the boxes, but they're 
acting too "manly" to ask for any help in carrying them. Morgan and 
Burke follow them out, while Trueman and Percell just stand there, 
laughing.

CUT TO MEDBAY

Wolenczak and Reede walk in first, still struggling from the weight of 
the boxes. They drop the boxes on the floor and both Reede and Wolenczak 
look like they're about to collapse from exhaustion, almost like they've 
just run a marathon. Morgan and Burke are still laughing.

REEDE
(gasping for breath)
Well, we made it.

MORGAN
(to Burke)
Yeah, but just barely.

Burke and Morgan erupt into laughter. Wolenczak notices them.

WOLENCZAK
(slightly offended, still trying to catch his breath)
What're you laughing at?

BURKE
(laughing)
Nothing.
(beat, looking at Morgan)
Nothing at all.

REEDE
(sounding wounded)
Fine, be that way.

MORGAN
(still laughing)
Okay, we will.

REEDE
What, you don't appreciate a simple chivalrous gesture?

MORGAN
(glancing at Burke)
Oh, we appreciate it all right. I just find this whole thing rather
amusing, that's all.

Reede sees the opportunity to be even more amusing and mockingly gets
down on one knee in front of Morgan and Burke and looks like he's about 
to kiss their hands in one of those knightly kinds of gestures. Burke
smilingly shakes her head and points toward the doorway.

BURKE
(laughing)
Just get out of here, will you, Tom!

REEDE
Just glad to be of service to you, ladies.

With one last sweeping bow, Reede leaves. Burke and Morgan start 
unpacking the boxes. Wolenczak starts to help.

WOLENCZAK
(to Burke)
So what made you change your mind?
(beat)
I thought you were anxious to leave the Navy.

BURKE
Something about my job in the hospital wasn't working out right.

WOLENCZAK
(carefully)
If I'm not mistaken, it was a very prestigious job, wasn't it?

BURKE
Yes, it was. But something about the job itself didn't sit right with 
me.
(beat)
I guess something in me just missed working on _seaQuest_.

Wolenczak's PAL beeps. When he activates it, Trueman, who's back on the 
Bridge, speaks.

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Captain, you have a call from Secretary General Hitchcock.

WOLENCZAK
(into PAL)
Thank you, Ensign. I'll take it in my office. I should be there in a
minute.

TRUEMAN
(over com)
Yes, Sir.

Wolenczak starts to leave, but turns back to Burke and Morgan, who are
still unpacking Burke's equipment

WOLENCZAK
I'll see you both later.
(beat)
Oh, and welcome back, Doctor Burke. Everyone's happy you've returned.

Wolenczak smiles at them and leaves.

BURKE
Wolenczak's really not that bad, is he?

MORGAN
(smiling)
No, I think everyone's been making something out of nothing about him.
(beat, looking out the door after Wolenczak)
He really _is_ nice.

CUT TO WOLENCZAK'S OFFICE

Wolenczak switches on the vidlink, smiling. He's about to thank
Hitchcock for reassigning Burke to the _seaQuest_, but stops when he 
sees the scowl on her face. He knows he's in for a _lot_ of trouble. He
immediately stops smiling and takes a deep breath.

WOLENCZAK
(apprehensive)
Hi, Katie. What's up?

HITCHCOCK
(exploding)
What the hell did you think you were doing? Or did you even think at 
all?!
(beat)
How could you do this to me, Lucas? My job as the secretary general is 
on the line now!

WOLENCZAK
(trying to cut in)
Katie...

HITCHCOCK
(slamming her hands down on the desk)
The UEO is going to fall apart! The governor of Oklahoma has informed
me they are seceding and allying with the Carolinan Confederation! And 
several states may follow them!

WOLENCZAK
(desperately)
Look, Katie...

HITCHCOCK
(ignoring Wolenczak)
I don't know what I'm going to do now. Ben's in jail; the UEO has just
lost another state.
(glaring at Wolenczak)
And now I find out one of my closest friends has just betrayed me.
(beat, sarcastic)
Thanks, Lucas. It's nice to know you can always count on your friends 
for support.

WOLENCZAK
(pleading)
Madame Secretary...

HITCHCOCK
(sadly)
Why, Lucas? Why?
(beat)
How could you do this to me?

WOLENCZAK
(resigned)
How did you find out?

HITCHCOCK
Ross issued a statement earlier. She looked like a mass murderer who's
just gotten off on a technicality.

WOLENCZAK
(sincerely)
Look, Katie, this has nothing to do with you personally. You're one of 
my closest friends and I don't know what I'd do without you. But I 
couldn't stand by and watch you recklessly throw away everything you've 
worked so hard for.

HITCHCOCK
But did you think about how much this would hurt me rather than help?
(beat)
I know you care, Lucas, but this doesn't do much for my reputation as
secretary general.
(beat)
I know I don't look as bad as Secretary General Dre did when she was
arrested for treason, but I still have very big shoes to fill after
Jonathan...

WOLENCZAK
(reassuring)
I know, Katie. And you know I'm there for you every step of the way.
(beat, hopeful)
Any news about Ben?

HITCHCOCK
No, but I'm hoping Ross's press conference will be able to answer any
questions I've still got about this whole ridiculous affair.

Wolenczak pushes a few buttons and the vidlink screen splits so he can
see both Hitchcock and the press conference, which has just started.

CUT TO ROSS'S PRESS CONFERENCE

Ross is standing in front of a crowd of reporters.

ROSS
Mister Krieg has been arrested on charges of attempted biological 
warfare, terrorism, and possession of a potentially deadly weapon.
(beat)
I have also received information, from a reliable source, that UEO
Secretary General Hitchcock has ordered the UEO vessel _seaQuest_ to 
rescue Mister Krieg.

REPORTER #1
Madame President, could you speculate about Secretary General 
Hitchcock's reasons for the order?

ROSS
(turning on the southern-belle charm)
I don't need to speculate; I _know_.
(beat)
The secretary general has been on quite intimate terms with the accused
for some time now. I believe they were married once before.

REPORTER #2
Madame President, what was the deadly weapon that Mister Krieg was
carrying?

ROSS
He was seen crossing the border carrying a puppy.

The crowd begins to murmur, wondering how a puppy could be a threat.

ROSS
Yes, I know you may be wondering how this is illegal, as well as how it
could be a threat.
(beat, looking around at the reporters)
We don't know how far the UEO will go to silence the Carolinan
Confederation. Who knows if they would stoop so low as to subject a poor
little puppy to a horrible disease.
(beat)
I couldn't take the chance of the puppy becoming rabid, biting someone 
and spreading a potentially deadly disease which could wipe out the 
entire Carolinan population. Therefore I had to order that it be put
to sleep. Certainly you can understand the reasons behind my actions.

REPORTER #1
Madame President, how did you obtain the information about Secretary
General Hitchcock's order for the _seaQuest_? After all, the Carolinan
Confederation is no longer a part of the UEO.

ROSS
(smiling)
I got it from a _very_ reliable source who happens to know quite a bit,
not only about the UEO, but about Secretary General Hitchcock as well.
(beat, playing it for all it's worth)
Earlier today, I received a call from Captain Lucas Wolenczak of the
_seaQuest_, who informed me of the order.

The crowd begins to murmur again, wondering about this unusual turn of
events. DeLano tries to calm down the crowd -- President Ross still has
more to say.

ROSS
I have spoken with Captain Wolenczak and we have come to terms about the
release of the prisoner.
(beat)
Benjamin Krieg will pay a significant fine in return for his release
back into UEO territory. Mister Krieg has already agreed to the sum of
money and will be released within the next few hours.

Ross smiles, knowing that the press will look on her humanitarian 
actions favorably.

ROSS
(continuing)
However, I cannot condone the actions of the UEO. By ordering the
_seaQuest_ into Carolinan waters, Secretary General Hitchcock was
unnecessarily provoking war with the Carolinan Confederation.
(beat)
As a result, the state of Oklahoma has seceded and has joined with our
confederation. We welcome them with open arms.

FADE TO COMMERCIAL

END ACT FOUR


===========================  PART 5  =====================================


ACT FIVE

FADE IN TO HITCHCOCK'S OFFICE

Hitchcock looks really surprised at what she has heard. She shuts off 
the television and looks at Wolenczak, puzzled.

HITCHCOCK
Lucas, I...
(beat)
Why didn't you tell me you'd come to terms with Ross about Ben's 
release?

WOLENCZAK
(matter-of-factly)
You never gave me the chance. I wanted to tell you, but you kept getting
angrier at me and I couldn't get a word in edgewise.

HITCHCOCK
(apologetically)
I am _so_ sorry, Lucas. I didn't mean to be so rude with you. I was just
so frustrated, and --

WOLENCZAK
(cutting her off)
I understand. Trust me Katie, I do.

HITCHCOCK
(smiling)
Thank you.
(beat)
You know, I can never seem to stay angry at you, kid. I don't know why,
even though you tend to give _everyone_ a hard time, but that just comes
naturally to you, anyway.

WOLENCZAK
(defensively)
Hey!

HITCHCOCK
(laughing)
I'm just kidding!

WOLENCZAK
(slightly wounded)
Yeah, thanks.

HITCHCOCK
But you _did_ cause another state to secede. That's going to be a huge
problem for me to deal with.

WOLENCZAK
If it makes you feel any better, Ben, the rest of the _seaQuest_ crew, 
and I are here to back you up.

HITCHCOCK
Yeah, I feel a little better, but not much.

WOLENCZAK
Ah, come on, Katie. What do you expect me to do? Get down on my knees
and beg for forgiveness?

HITCHCOCK
(laughing)
No, no of course not.
(beat, with a devilish grin)
Then again...

WOLENCZAK
Katie!
(beat, apprehensive)
I'm still invited to the wedding, right?

HITCHCOCK
Of course you are!
(beat, hopeful)
Actually, Ben was hoping you'd be his best man.

WOLENCZAK
(grinning)
Are you kidding? Of course I will!

Hitchcock smiles at Wolenczak, pleased.

CUT TO INTERIOR CHURCH

Krieg and Hitchcock are standing at the altar, smiling at each other.
Hitchcock is wearing a simple, off-white suit and Krieg is wearing a 
dark suit, but with a crazy tie that absolutely complements his
personality. Bridger, Kristin Westphalen and Tim O'Neill are sitting in 
one of the pews, smiling. Wolenczak is standing to one side of Krieg, 
smiling more than anyone else, with the exception of the happy couple.  
Krieg and Hitchcock have just exchanged the traditional wedding vows and 
each has written their own vows.

KRIEG
(looking into her eyes)
Katie, I remember when we were first married. I took everything for
granted then. I guess I just assumed things would come naturally. Well,
they didn't, as you and I, as well as everyone else here knows.
(beat)
I think I once told you I was in love with the _idea_ of us, top of
our class, that kind of thing. Well, I've grown up since then, and 
lately I've been seeing you in a completely different light than I did 
years ago. Then, I looked at you with the eyes of someone who just 
wanted to be able to say he was married, with the eyes of a man who was 
still in his childhood.
(beat)
Now, when I look at you, I see you for the beautiful, intelligent woman
you are. I see everything I took for granted the first time, everything 
I missed. I feel so much closer to you now than I ever did. I love you,
Katie. I always have, but my ego blinded me to it. I admit I'm not 
perfect, but I _do_ learn from my mistakes and I swear I'm not going
to make the same mistakes again.

Krieg smiles at Hitchcock and squeezes her hand. Hitchcock smiles back 
at him.

HITCHCOCK
Ben, what can I say? This _is_ going to be the second time around for 
us. I could say I really didn't care the first time, but I'd be lying.
Whatever feelings that I ever had for you are still there and, if 
anything, are more intense.
(beat)
Yeah, we had our problems, but who doesn't? There were times I could
almost say I hated you, especially after serving on _seaQuest_ with
you. But as annoying as you can be sometimes, you're still the same 
sweet, charming Ben I fell in love with the first time.
(beat)
You've got a maturity far beyond what everyone gives you credit for.  
You may act like a child sometimes, but that's just part of your charm. 
That's what attracted me the first time and made me fall in love with 
you all over again.

They exchange rings and as everyone else applauds, Krieg puts his arm
around Hitchcock's waist, pulls her towards him and they kiss.

CUT TO ROSS'S OFFICE

Ross is talking with DeLano about some business affairs.

DELANO
What are you going to do about the UEO situation? You let go of the one
thing that gave you leverage over Secretary General Hitchcock.

ROSS
I may not have Krieg to use as bait anymore, but that doesn't mean the
UEO has won the war.

DELANO
What do you mean?

ROSS
We've already gotten several allies who used to be connected to the UEO,
and several more are sure to follow suit.

DELANO
What makes you so sure Hitchcock doesn't have an ace up her sleeve?
(beat)
Don't forget, we don't know her that well; we don't know how she runs
things. We seceded when she took office.

ROSS
(condescending)
Gary, Gary. Have you ever known me to be a quitter? I have my ways of
finding things out.
(beat, cynically)
But you can be sure of one thing. I won't quit until I have sunk the 
UEO.

CUT TO RECEPTION HALL

Krieg and Hitchcock are being congratulated by Bridger and Westphalen.
Krieg has his arm around Hitchcock and they're both smiling.

BRIDGER
Are you sure you can handle it this time, Krieg?

KRIEG
(smiling at Hitchcock)
Yeah, I think so.

Krieg kisses Hitchcock on the cheek and she smiles at him.

HITCHCOCK
Don't worry about it. I'll keep him in line.

WESTPHALEN
(smiling)
Oh, I don't doubt that.
(beat)
But I do think you'll have your hands full with him.

HITCHCOCK
(rolling her eyes)
Tell me something I don't know.

Hitchcock and Westphalen start laughing. Krieg looks at Hitchcock and
raises an eyebrow. O'Neill approaches them.

WESTPHALEN
(thoughtfully)
It's just a shame that Jonathan couldn't have been here.

O'NEILL
I'm sure he'd be as happy for you as the rest of us are.

KRIEG
Thanks, Tim.

O'Neill hugs Krieg and Hitchcock. Wolenczak walks over, grinning.

WOLENCZAK
(happily)
Congratulations Ben, Katie.

O'NEILL
(teasing)
Lucas, you've got to stop grinning so much. You're starting to make the
bride and groom look bad.

HITCHCOCK
(laughing)
Yeah, Lucas. You know, you really should listen to Tim.

WOLENCZAK
I can't help it. I'm just so happy for the both of you.
(hugging Hitchcock)
Katie, you look beautiful.

HITCHCOCK
(blushing)
Thanks.

O'NEILL
(teasing)
Ah, the blushing bride.

Hitchcock blushes even redder.

O'NEILL
Seriously, though, I wouldn't have thought that you'd be smiling quite 
so much today. Especially after what's been going on with the UEO.

HITCHCOCK
Well, I've decided not to think about business today. Right now, I just
want to think about how happy I am.
(beat, hugging Krieg)
I think things are going to be a lot better this time around.

KRIEG
They certainly will be. At the very least I'll try to make it better.
(beat, to Wolenczak)
Lucas, you've done so much for us over the past few days. I don't know 
how to thank you enough.
(beat, glancing around)
Especially since you managed to keep the majority of the press away.  
How'd you do it?

WOLENCZAK
(sincerely)
It's the least I can do for friends that mean as much to me as the both 
of you do.
(beat, nonchalant)
As for the press, I just threatened to send a couple of WSKRS after 
them.

Everyone laughs. Hitchcock starts getting emotional and hugs Wolenczak
fiercely.

HITCHCOCK
(pulling away)
Lucas, I just want to tell you I forgive you for everything. Even though
I _still_ have to deal with the secession of Oklahoma.

WOLENCZAK
You'll be able to handle it. I'm sure you will. You've always been able
to deal with difficult situations.

HITCHCOCK
Thanks, Lucas. I really appreciate it.

Hitchcock hugs Wolenczak again and it's apparent that all is forgiven
between them.

FADE TO BLACK

THE END
==========================================================================