By L.D. Nuetzmann

Act 1

EXT. SPACE

We see The Archive. Cubic, lumpy and the darkest brown. A structure similar to that of a gigantic bismuth crystal.

  The sheen of the structure is seemingly random with the side facing its star reflecting light more in some areas than others. The opposing side, facing away from the system’s star, is almost imperceptible against the dark, inky, bluish-black of space. It is almost as if the two halves of “The Archive” are in opposition of one another. Lights are not so much installed on its exterior as they are growing out of it. The lights grow along The Archive’s geometric contours like right angular veins showing us that the structure itself is indeed alive.

(IN VIDEO) INT. DATA CENTER – ORIENTATION “VIDEO”

We see a textured holographic orientation video vaguely reminiscent of an old Bell Labs reel a junior high student may have seen in the 1960s. The colors of the hologram are monochromatic ranging from black to cyan.

A creature appears against a backdrop of cubic shapes, extending from the walls. We see small paths of light suddenly appear in the shapes and then disappear just as quickly. The creature is a Balvarian. An almost 3 meter tall slender male. The Balvarian begins speaking in his native language. The auto-translate function kicks in and we begin hearing a poor translation.

Balvarian (holo):

Greeting… I am called Doctor Shevar. I am charged with day to day operation of (He pauses briefly.) The Archive! If you are see or hearing this, congratulation! You have been specially selected by (Yet another pause.) The Archive!

Dr. Shevar takes a few paces to camera right as the camera clumsily follows him. We now see the addition of various computer engineers in the background.

Dr. Shevar (holo) cont.:

I am understand you may not know why you do here. It is not our work to question The Archive. The Archive was here long before we were, and it shall remain long after our cycle completes. 

Dr. Shevar pauses a moment as the camera pushes in. He collects himself and his face turns ever so slightly heavier. We perceive Dr. Shevar as though he is speaking english.

Dr. Shevar (holo):

I stand here in data center. The brain matter of The Archive. You, and everyone else. (He gestures around to the engineers behind him.) We are the custodian of this place. (He takes a breath.) Whatever your reason for being here. The Archive has reconfigured itself time and time again for us all. It likely built your work area long before you ever existed. Its algorithms predict our needs long before we have knowledge of them. (The doctor keeps glancing off camera.) Yes? Let me see. 

A short, furry, young Keplan male walks into frame holding a computer tablet.

(IN VIDEO) INT. – THE ARCHIVE – UNKNOWN ROOM

Dr. Shevar (holo):

Good news! We are just in time for a reconfiguration. Look close. 

The wall begins extending outwards. two meters, six meters, then twelve more meters. The wall settles, starts shimmering then becomes transparent.

Dr. Shevar (holo):

Well… more room and a…  window. (He turns and approaches the camera.) We may not know the purpose of this room in my or even your lifetime, but every element of The Archive, every wall, every floor. Every atom of this space station captures and stores more data than we could ever hope to decrypt or decypher. And remember…

The video ends abruptly. 

INT. – ORIENTATION ROOM

We cut to a young, short, dark skinned woman sitting up in her seat as the organic lights come up. She turns her head to see an older, tall, silver skinned Vizarian woman leaning against the back wall. 

Older Vizarian Woman:

Boring. Boring hologram.

The young woman gives a puzzled and amused expression.

Young Human Woman:

I don’t suppose you’re…

Older Vizarian Woman:

Niv Min Ija Fen Bij Ona, you suppose right. You may call me Niv. Second assistant to director Lykra.

The young human extends her hand…

Young Human Woman:

I’m…

Niv:

Mika. Yes. I know. Follow.

Niv ignores Mika’s hand.

INT. – HALLWAY 

Niv struts down the hallway taking long but casual strides with Mika in tow. Niv comes to a sudden stop. Mika almost collides face first into Niv’s back. Niv’s retinas light up suggesting she is getting a “call” via her SynSync™.

Niv:

Yes?… Yes she is with me now. You… you are sure?… I understand. (dismissively) Yes, yes.

Niv turns around to Mika.

Niv:

I… am taking you to see Dr. Korva.

Niv resumes walking down the hallway taking even faster strides than before. Mika continues her best effort to keep up.

Mika:

Dr. Korva? Isn’t he kind of like the uh… 

Niv:

Most people assume he is the head of operations. In reality, The Archive is divided into three departments. We have engineering and the sciences, that is Dr. Korva’s department. Then there is administration, that is Director Lykra’s area. Finally, Commander Kitt, she’s head of security. Although her second, Chief Xaram would have everyone believe he is in charge.

Mika:

That sounds kind of uh…

They come to a stop towards the end of the hallway. 

Niv stands at the door expecting it to open. Her face moves from her usual stoicism to slightly irritated. Her eyes slowly make their way to the top of the door where we see a small camera-like object hastily stuck above the door. Niv stares into the lens with contempt. 

The door finally opens and the two women step in.

INT. – DATA CENTER

The two women step into the data center. Mika looks around in awe at the pulsating cubic shapes moving in and out of the walls and the small lights firing across the geometric surfaces. 

Mika:

This looks very different from the data center I saw in orientation.

Niv:

It better, that hologram was generated over seventy cycles ago.

Mika:

So… Dr. Shevar…

Niv:

Retired. Spends his time in a little place on the tertiary spire in Mespo.

Mika, her attention divided between her surroundings and Niv…

Mika:

You mean Vibro? The space elevator?

Niv:

(Scanning the data center for Dr. Korva) Hmm, “Vibro…” yes. I have never… been. Ahh! There.

Niv spots Dr. Korva amidst the two dozen or so Balvarians folded up at their computer consoles. Niv and Mika approach Dr. Korva, an elderly Balvarian male. He is slumped over a work station staring into a viewport with beady, sunken, black eyes. He is heavily engaged in his work.

Niv:

Dr. Korva…

Dr. Korva:

(Dr. Korva without looking up, gives and unfriendly) Ehrrmmm.

Niv:

I was instructed by the director to introduce you to our newest member.

Dr. Korva:

I could smell the stench of The Mespon Sewers coming down the hallway.

He pauses, his head rising from the console, staring off into space. 

Mika:

(Adjusting her posture.) I am from the tunnels of Mespo, that is true.

Dr. Korva:

Don’t act so proud. I would not.

Dr. Korva slowly turns his head towards Niv and Mika.

Dr. Korva:

Do not feel offended. Vizarians smell even worse.

Niv looks on with minor contempt for Dr. Korva.

Dr. Korva extends his many jointed left “arm” pointing to the door which the two women had entered only moments earlier. 

Dr. Korva:

You have performed your duty as you were told. Now, out. Before I say something you will regret.

As the two women turn to the exit, the door opens and two creatures step into the data center. They move straight towards Niv and Mika. We see a short furry Keplan male and a tall slender pale skinned Intris.

Keplan Male:

Assistant Administrator Niv. (The Keplan Male looks at Niv and nods. He then looks to Mika.) I am Chief of Security Xaram. ( Xaram starts to extend his hand expecting to greet her with the typical human/Vizarian greeting.)

Mika:

I am called Mika.(Mika places her right hand at the center of her chest and bows slightly.)

Xaram quickly pulls his hand back and gives an ever-so-slight approving nod as to suggest he is pleased that she knows the Keplan greeting.

Intris:

I am Director Lykra.

Mika:

Mika. (Mika holds up her right hand and Director Lykra does the same in turn.)

Lykra:

You seem well versed in offworld introductory procedures and customs.

Mika:

I grew up in, as Doctor Korva put it, “the sewers” of Mespo.

Niv:

Then you are well acquainted with the tetrapod population?

Mika:

(Mika nods.) Some of my best friends were tetrapods. As well as humans and (she looks at Niv and nods.) Vizarians. (Niv reciprocates with her own nod of understanding.)

Lykra:

I see… but you left The Tunnels?

Mika:

I did. When I was fourteen. I joined the Dora‘plor on the surface level.

Chief Xaram:

Dora‘plor?! As in the terrorist group? (Xaram now adopts a more defensive stance.)

Mika:

One person’s terrorist group can be another’s salvation. And anyway, there were many splinter cells, our contingent was peaceful. We mostly dedicated our time to getting the people of the tunnels food and clean water. 

Niv:

Minus the Tetrapods of course. Is it not true that they thrive down there?

Mika:

While it is true that the water sources are nontoxic to them and they have more food than they will ever know what to do with, they too lack proper healthcare and housing.

Dr. Korva:

(Pulling his head up from his console and looking towards the others.) Housing?! For Tetrapods? Ridiculous!

Mika:

(Doing her best to maintain her composure.) While it is true that Tetrapods are highly adaptable, it does not mean that they do not deserve the same rights afforded to the other species. I grew up with two Tetrapods, a brother and sister. We developed our own form of communication.

Lykra:

Fascinating.

Mika:

It wasn’t that difficult. Like I said, we grew up together.

Lycra:

Well, not to understate the importance of equal rights for the people of the tunnels, but that still doesn’t explain your knowledge of other cultures. You tested quite well on the anthropology portion of the exam.

Mika:

Oh… yes, sorry. When I was twenty I left the Dora‘plor in search of a job. A real job. I wanted to help support my family. I slowly worked my way up, quite literally to the 281st floor of Oaka.(Mika looks at Niv.) The secondary space elevator. 

Mika continues:

I got a job as a hostess at a restaurant there. “The Portcullis”?

Chief Xaram:

Nice place…

Lykra:

Very nice.

Dr. Korva(off camera):

Good food.

Mika:

Well, as you can imagine I got fairly well acquainted with every species and every race. 

Director Lykra gives an understanding nod.

Lykra:

The pieces are beginning to fit together. We now have a clearer picture as to why you have been invited to The Archive. Dr. Korva? Is the hologram ready?

Dr. Korva waves his hand giving a low effort assuring gesture. As if to say “Yes, yes, of course it’s ready.

Lykra looks at Niv. 

Lykra:

Niv, I would like to speak with you in private for a moment. (Gesturing to a dark corner of the room.)

Niv and Lykra step aside, leaving Mika to stand awkwardly next to Chief Xaram.

Lykra:

Niv, before we proceed. I know you don’t enjoy your work here. I also know that despite your disinterest you have always given your best. 

Niv:

My employment is being terminated?

Lykra:

Ha. No. Actually, you are being promoted. You will be the head of a new department. I just wanted to be the first to congratulate you.

Director Lykra extends her hand, Niv slightly stunned, takes Lykra’s hand and shakes it.

Niv:

Thank you. I…

Lykra:

Dr. Shevar made a hologram for this occasion. It will explain things a bit better.

Lykra and Niv rejoin the group.

Lykra:

Twelve days ago we received a priority message from Dr. Shevar. You should know, this message was recorded eighty three cycles ago. So, it is not exactly translated… well.

Chief Xaram:

When you’re ready doctor.

Dr. Korva initiates the hologram on the floor next to his console.

Dr. Shevar (holo):

If you are witnessing this message, you are (the audio fades into the background.)

The holo projection on the ground is tiny. So small we can barely tell it’s there.

Chief Xaram:

Doctor…

We see Dr. Korva’s long slender fingers slowly and deliberately rotate a knob on his console as the hologram exponentially increases in size.

Dr. Shevar (holo):

…irst Human! Ever since The Archive released its first signal so long ago. Bringing all of us together from all throughout our quadrant of the galaxy. The Archive’s signal has only grown in both modulation and strength. 

Cut to(within the hologram) a two dimensional overhead map of the galaxy.

On the map we see a flashing star.

Dr. Shevar (holo V.O.):

Here is location of Paratimus. A red dwarf star which The Archive is in orbit of at this time.

We see a ring slowly begin to emanate out from The Archive’s sun. The ring grows. The holo video pauses.

Dr. Shevar (holo V.O.):

Here, first contact. Ventriq.

The holo image rotates to reveal a three dimensional image of the galaxy. The ring, symbolizing The Archive’s signal, becomes a sphere continuing to slowly increase in size. The holo video pauses again.

Dr. Shevar (holo V.O.):

Trenta, my people’s home.

Faster now. The animation moves forward a few seconds again and again. The spherical signal grows and grows in size between the names of each successive world Dr. Shevar lists off. Each time the sphere passes through a system with intelligent life, that system’s star lights up. 

The doctor names a few more systems, but cannot keep up.

Dr. Shevar (holo V.O.):

Diaterria. Metros. Vizantia, and here… Humana.

CUT TO (IN HOLO) DR. SHEVAR

Dr. Shevar (holo):

By the time you are seeing this, you should have at least one Vizarian and one human here at The Archive. I am here to tell you, moving forward, The Archive will become a galactic hub, not just for study and scientific research, but to welcome each and every new species that answers the call of… The Archive.

The doctor pauses for dramatic effect.

Dr. Shevar (holo continued):

Vizarian! You are now the head of a new department! Congratulation on your promotion! Human! You are The Archive’s first ambassador!

The doctor stands there half expecting an applause.

Dr. Shevar (holo):

Well, that… that is all. Uhh… good… goodnight?

The hologram cuts out. 

Dr. Korva ejects a slight sound of disgust.

Dr. Korva:

A Vizarian and a human welcoming new species. The Archive truly does have a sense of humor.

Chief Xaram:

Not to offend, but it does seem a poor decision, granting the two youngest species in the collective this… uh, duty.

Director Lykra:

It is hardly our place to question The Archive. 

Lykra turns to Niv.

Director Lykra:

Niv, though I am sad to lose your talents, I am happy for you.

Niv:

Yes, thank you Director.

Director Lykra:

Ahh, we will need to give you a title. Something befitting the head of diplomatic and interspecies relations. I suppose that can come later. For now, might I suggest you and your first (Lykra gestures to Mika.) head over to Station 55.

Niv’s eyes light up.

Niv:

For an extended lunch.

Director Lykra:

Take all the time you require, but may I suggest you also use that time to map out your department. You may need to build a team of others. While you are doing that Dr. Korva and I will lay out a section of The Archive where in the two of you can…

Dr. Korva interrupts Lykra.

Dr. Korva:

I have the plans here. The recent expansion. All too obvious. An office area with a docking bay. An observation deck…

Lykra holds up a hand.

Director Lykra:

As I said, we will discuss it later.

Korva lets out another disgruntled huff, then a dismissive motion with his hand. The Chief and the Director turn and exit the data center. Niv and Mika remain quietly talking amongst themselves. 

Dr. Korva:

(Dr. Korva, without taking his eyes off his computer console.) That means you two as well. Out!

Niv:

(Niv, looking to Mika.) Come. This place is stupid.

Act 2

INT. HALLWAY

Niv and Mika proceed down another hallway. This time Niv’s posture is more relaxed and she proceeds at a leisurely pace. A pace that Mika finds much easier to keep.

Mika:

(Looking up at Niv.) So… do you…

Niv:

Quiet. Not here. Shuttle.

Mika:

Shuttle?

Niv:

EM pod. Noodles.

Mika:

Noodles?

Niv:

Nooo-dulls.

Niv stops abruptly. Then turns to Mika. 

Niv:

Wait. Is your translator broken?

Mika:

No. No I just

Niv pauses a moment, staring at Mika, her eyes narrowing in on Mika’s face. 

Niv:

Come!

Niv turns back around and immediately takes off, walking much faster now as Mika reengages her legs attempting to keep up.

They proceed down the hallway another three or four meters.

They reach a small alcove with a ramp on the side of the hallway leading down. Niv politely pushes Mika into the small space just barely large enough for her. Niv follows hunched over at an off angle trying to prevent her shoulders from getting wedged into the small hallway. 

Mika:

What is this? Why don’t we just use the docking bay?

Niv:

No. I will explain. Proceed, quickly.

The small hallway opens up into a small manufactured room (This room is clearly not a part of The Archive.) with a Chintra sitting at a desk. The nine inch tall creature looks like a turtle crossed with a hedgehog. 

Chintra Male:

Niv! Early lunch today?

Niv:

Klipp! Hmm… Yes! This is Mika. She will be joining me.

Klipp:

I see… will you be visiting Lej?

Niv:

Of course! He is my mate. Of course! (Niv throws her hands upwards, forgetting the ceiling in the docking bay is much too low for her size, rapping her knuckles on the roof.) Ow! Of course.

Niv places her badge against a small metallic plate. We hear two quick beeps and Niv awkwardly climbs down into a hole in the floor and on board the shuttle. 

Klipp (looking to Mika):

Well, Myka.

Mika:

Mika.

Klipp:

Eh?

Mika:

My name. It’s Mika. Mee-Kah.

Klipp:

Oh, sorry. Meeee-kah. (Clearing his throat.) Welcome to The Archive. I take it you are employed here? 

Mika:

I am, and I will be working with Niv it seems.

Klipp:

Oh! Oh… okay. Wonderful news, uh… uh. Glad to hear it!

Niv(off screen from down in the shuttle):

What is taking so long? It is not talk time, it is noodle time.

Klipp throws a hand in the air and scoffs before gesturing to the badge reader on the wall.

Klipp:

Just place your badge against the reader, wait until you hear two beeps and then climb on down. It is extremely important that it beeps twice. Not three, not four.

Mika:

Not five…

Klipp:

(With deadly serious intensity.)What? Who said anything about five?!

Mika:

Oh, no. I was just… I just…

Klipp:

Ha! Got you! You have been fooled. I fool all!

Mika gives off a slightly uncomfortable and forced laugh.

Klipp:

(Now, satisfied, Klipp gestures to the ID reader.)Please, proceed.

Mika holds her newly assigned badge against the ID reader and it gives off a single low pitched buzz.

Klipp:

Ahh! Dafa skon! Stupid Archive hasn’t added you to the inventory yet! Forget it! Just… just hop in.

Mika:

Are you sure? How will I get back?

Klipp:

Just let Niv know. She will take care of it.

Mika:

Oh… okay.

Mika hesitantly climbs down into the shuttle to find she is now in a small cylinder. Niv is awkwardly curled up at the front of the pod in a position not unlike the fetus at the end of “2001: A Space Odyssey.”  Mika hesitantly sits down, collapsing her legs beneath her. The small circular entrance slams shut like an eyelid. Mika jumps ever so slightly. The magnetic accelerators reverse polarity and the shuttle begins hurling toward Station 55.

Niv:

Apologies. I did not wish to let on about my excitement in The Archive. It records everything we do. I try to maintain an air of professionalism when I am there. I am happy to leave the administration department and I… am also happy for you.

Mika:

Director Lykra said something about building a team?

Niv:

Yes, but we will discuss after we eat.

The EM shuttle pod has several screens displaying various ads, news reports and music videos. The camera focuses on one of the screens. 

TV AD

We see a disenchanted teenage human male standing in front of a vending machine. He lets out a sigh as he scrolls though the choices presented on the screen in front of him.

Teen Male:

Cloned Ciplo meat… green stuff… Woah! Extreme Cyclo-max! Cool! 

He slams a fist on the red flashing button in front of him. A large red ‘X’ appears on the screen as a very robotic voice says “Error. Error. Error.” Just then, a sexy Vizarian woman drops to the ground in her Torsa™ brand neon purple anti-grav boots.

Sexy Vizarian Woman:

 Hey kid. Need a hand? (Cue 80’s hair metal music.)

Teen Male:

Woah! Captain Threxa?!

Cpt. Threxa:

You know it! (She gives a sexy wink.) Let me help.

Captain Threxa places a finger to her temple, activating a laser cutting the vending machine in half allowing its contents (exclusively every flavor of Cyclo-max and Cyclo-max Extreme) to spill out.

Teen Male:

Wow! Thanks Captain! (The teen grabs a can, pops it open, and takes a drink.) I feel stronger already!

Captain Threxa:

Ha! That’s right, kid. New Extreme Cyclo-max contains half the carbs and double the protein!

Teen Male: Woooaaaaah!

Captain Threxa:

Even Tito can’t get enough. Can you Tito?

A flying creature analogous to a parrot flies down, lands on Captain Threxa’s shoulder and lets out an ear curdling screech of approval. They all laugh. The Extreme Cyclo-max logo flies onto the screen.

Fast Talking Voice Over:

Not recommended for babies, the elderly, or any creature currently gestating life. If puberty persists after the age of nineteen, please consult a medical professional. The Huang-Baker Beverage Coalition including its subsidiaries and shell corporations are not responsible for any unforeseen side effects.

Rock Singer:

Cyclo-max!!!

STATION 55 EXT. ORBITING MESPO

We see The Archive in the background and the planet Mespo looming overhead as the station slowly rotates on its axis. 

STATION 55 INT. – SPACE DOCK

We see Mika standing outside the shuttle’s small porthole as Niv awkwardly climbs out. 

Niv:

(Grabbing Mika’s wrist.) Come. Remain close. 

Niv pulls Mika through the crowd as they make their way down the busy corridor towards the food court. Niv dodges and weaves her way through the mass of people while Mika does her best not to bump into every single person along the way. They emerge from the crowd near a kiosk that reads “Star Udon” in yellow neon. Niv sits on the edge at one of the only two empty stools. Before Mika gets a chance to sit on the other, a small Keplan female attempts to take the last remaining seat. Niv immediately turns to the woman, exposes her shark-like teeth, and lets out a hiss similar to that of a defensive cat. The Keplan woman jumps out of her seat and retreats into the crowd. 

Niv:

Mika, sit! Quickly!

Mika:

I’m sitting. I’m sitting.

Behind the counter we see a single person tending to the grill. He is a middle aged short human male. 

Niv:

There. (Niv points to the middle aged man behind the counter.) You see? Lej. My mate. (As she looks on proudly.)

Mika:

(With a slight look of surprise.) Oh. When I heard the name Lej, I assumed…

Niv:

You thought you would get to see a vizarian male? Here? Ha! Not likely.

Mika:

I just thought, with a name like Lej…

Lej walks toward the two women dropping off a rectangular plate of yakisoba to another customer on the way. 

Lej:

Niv, you’re early today and who’s your friend?

Mika:

Mika, nice to meet you.

Lej:

I’m Lej, good to know you Mika.

Niv:

Mika was expecting you to be a Vizarian, male! (Niv breaks into uproarious laughter alarming the other patrons.)

Lej:

(Lej looks around at the customers giving them a reassuring gesture.) I get that a lot. I’m from Aflann, my innito, my… godmother, you might say, was a Vizarian. She named me Lej. It’s supposed to mean something like keeper of the light.

Niv:

Keeper, guardian… seeker. (Niv looks at Lej.) It is a good name.

Lej:

Thank you darling.  And in celebration of what I assume is your new job, Mika, anything you want. It’s on the house.

Mika:

Oh, thank you. Umm… (Scanning the menu above the grill.) 

Lej:

How about a nice big warm bowl of udon. I make it with star wheat. 

Mika:

Star wheat? Wow, the good stuff huh? Sounds great.

Lej:

I’ll have it for you in no time. Niv, Yours will take a little longer, I wasn’t expecting you so early today. What’s the occasion?

Niv:

(sitting up straighter) I have been promoted. I am now in charge of a new department.

Lej:

Woah! What? That’s huge!

Niv:

Yes. It is a… “Big. Deal.”

Lej:

Think we could upgrade to a one bedroom?

Niv:

I had not considered this. Yes. Certainly, yes.

Lej:

Awesome. (Looking to Mika.) We’ve just accumulated so much crap over the years. 

Mika:

I know the feeling.

Lej:

If there’s one thing humans and Vizzies are good at, it’s acquiring junk.

Mika:

(Raising her glass of water.) Here’s to junk!

Niv:

(Raising a bottle of beer.)To junk!

Mika:

Are we allowed to drink during work hours? (Looking around as though someone might catch them.) Where’d you even get that? 

Niv:

Almost certainly not. (As she takes another swig.) And (Burping) I got a…

Mika:

Promotion?

Niv:

Promotion, ya. (Drunkenly.) Yaaaaay! (Raising her bottle up as high as she can.)

(Lej walks back over to the two women with a large steaming bowl, placing it in front of Mika.)

Lej:

You can also celebrate the fact that you finally made a friend.

Niv:

Friend? Who is friend?

Lej:

Mika. You seem like friend-ly.

Niv:

(BURP) Good enough! 

Lej:

You can be friends too. In fact, it might just make your job bearable for once.

Niv:

(Niv places her large hand atop Mika’s head.) Acceptable. (Raising her bottle once again.) A good day!

Niv raises her bottle, Lej raises a nearby bottle of soy sauce.

Mika:

(Taking notice of Niv’s bottle.) Is that a new bottle? Where are you finding those things?

Niv:

Do not worry about it.

The women take a drink. Lej mimics drinking from the bottle of soy sauce before placing it back under the bar. The three of them observe a brief awkward silence. 

Lej:

Oh!

Lej realizes Niv’s noodles must be ready by now. He runs back to the grill removing what appears to be some sort of meat based noodle. He plates it with an unknown sauce and presents it to Niv.

Mika:

Is that… are those?

Niv:

Meat noodles!

Lej:

The Vizzies and Kep love ‘em. It’s actually just cloned grub meat.

Niv:

(Niv, now stuffing her face, looks up at Mika with a mouth full of noodles, exposes her teeth and makes an exaggerated chewing motion.) Om nom om!

Mika:

Mmhmm, gross.

A young couple on the opposite side of the kiosk get up and leave. The seats are immediately filled by a new couple. Lej exits the scene, leaving Mika and Niv.

Mika:

So… Niv. Director Lykra said that we could build our own team.

Niv:

(Still enchanted by her meal.) Mmm, yes.

Mika:

Well, (Mika clears her throat.) I was thinking, and obviously I’m not quite sure what to expect.…

Niv:

None do.

Mika:

Those friends of mine I mentioned, back in the data center?

Niv:

(With neutrality.)The Tetrapods. You want to bring them on board?

Mika:

I do. Together, they’re brilliant engineers.

Niv:

Why do we need engineers?

Mika:

I don’t actually know yet, but like I said, they’re brilliant.

Niv:

(Niv, no longer eating, turns in her stool to Mika.) Are they brilliant because they are brilliant? Or, are they brilliant because they are your friends?

Mika:

Both. I don’t mean to seem biased. I believe that having them onboard would be advantageous not just for us, but for the entire staff. They excel in communication tech. 

Niv:

(Niv closes her eyes tight and shakes her head in an attempt to shirk her alcohol fueled buzz.) We will still have to clear it with Director Lykra, but if nothing else having Tetrapods onboard The Archive would infuriate Dr. Korva, and nothing brings me more joy than angering the doctor.

Mika:

Okay, great. I will put together a better argument before we bring this to the director. Do you think they will be receptive to my idea?

We see Niv looking straight ahead. Appearing almost catatonic. 

Mika:

Niv… Niv?

Lej, back on the grill, looks over at Niv.

Lej:

She’s getting a message on her SynSync™. See? Her eyes light up a little when it happens. I know, it used to freak me out too.

Niv:

The Archive has generated a priority message.

Mika:

Oh, another one?

Niv:

Not exactly, this message is for you and you alone.

Mika:

For me?

Niv:

We must go, now!

Niv stands to see a massive obstacle of people between herself and the 300 meter run to the docking area.

Niv:

Why are there so many people today? This is absurd.

Mika:

We can’t just wait for the crowd to die down?

Niv:

There is no time. High priority messages from The Archive deteriorate quickly over time. It requires a great deal of power to sustain. My call suggested your message contains a great deal of data. It will begin decaying very soon.

Niv, looking above the crowd, plots her course through.

Niv:

I will carry you.

Mika:

What? Is that necessary?

Niv:

Only if we are to reach our destination in time.

Mika:

Oh, okay. I guess we

Mika is interrupted as Niv picks her up, hoisting her over her head and begins plowing through the crowd shouting something in her native tongue that Mika’s autotranslator is too polite to translate.

We cut back to Lej watching Niv plow through the crowd with a small human held above her. He smirks.

Lej:

(Shaking his head.) Typical.

Act 3

INT. STATION 55 – DOCKING PORT

Niv gently sets Mika down and approaches a Keplan female at the front desk of the docking bay.  

Niv:

You! We require immediate transit to The Archive. It is an emergency.

The Keplan female slowly looks up from her computer screen through the projectile resistant plexi-glass and immediately identifies the Vizarian woman towering in front of her as the very same one that threatened her back at the Star Noodle kiosk.

Keplan female:

Hey Dave. 

Dave, a large human male, enters the frame from the back of the security booth.

Dave:

Hey Xerrii. What’s up?

Xerrii:

This is that woman I told you about.

Dave:

This is the one that hissed at you?

Xerrii:

You made me miss lunch.

Dave:

Yeah, she’s in a shitty mood now.

Xerrii:

She’s trying to cut in line.

Niv:

We have no time for this! (Niv slams her fist down on the counter. She puts an arm around Mika squeezing her in tight, side by side.) This is Overseer High Governess Mika! She has received a message from The Archive of the highest priority!

Dave:

“High Governess?”

Xerrii:

Sounds made up.

Xerrii and Dave stare at the two of them for a moment with critical eyes. 

Xerrii:

Well, her highness can wait in line just like everyone else. (Nodding her head towards Mika.)

Niv:

(Growling.) Fine. Fine!

Xerrii:

(To Mika…) Step forward and place your Identification on the pad.

Mika:

Oh, no! Niv, I forgot to tell you, I haven’t been added to the staff listing yet.

Niv:

Ah, of course. (Niv lets out a sigh and steps closer to Mika. Close enough that only Mika can hear her.) When you get back to The Archive, let Director Lykra know that I am in prison cell 8311. Do you understand? Eight-three-one-one. 

Mika:

Eight-three-one-one?

Niv:

Get. In. The shuttle pod. (Raising her voice to a yell…) Now!

Mika awkwardly staggers backward, turns and drops down into the shuttle just as Niv spins around pushing a small Keplan male away from the control console. She flips a couple switches, closing the door on the shuttle pod. We can hear the staff shouting for security in the background. Niv flicks a couple more safety switches, shifts the magnetic priming lever and smashes the launch button. Niv, having accomplished her task, immediately puts her hands up just as security arrives. 

Several security guards stand in Niv’s line of sight pointing tasers at her. Another security guard comes up from behind. Grabbing her hands and handcuffing her. 

As they take her away we see Xerrii and Dave looking on, shaking their heads in disapproval.

EXT. SPACE

We see The Archive in the distance orbiting the planet of Mespo. Mika’s shuttle pod goes rushing by the camera having just left Station 55 en route to The Archive.

INT. SHUTTLE POD

We see Mika, clearly shaken by the events that had just unfolded. Coping with an excess of adrenaline. She is sitting on the floor of the small shuttle with her legs folded up under her, adopting a somewhat meditative posture.

She closes her eyes and takes several deep breaths. It seems to do the trick. She opens her eyes as she regains her senses.

She looks up at one of the screens in the shuttle pod.

“TV” SCREEN

We see a tall slender Intris (not too different from Director Lykra) sitting at a news desk addressing the camera.

Interviewer:

Tonight! On Kacha-Co! It’s the season premiere of Mercy and The Bug! Hello and welcome. I am Tan-sa and this is PMR! I recently sat down with the two leading ladies, Mercy and The Bug, and got a little insider information on what we can expect in the season premiere episode…

We cut to a pre-recorded interview.

We see Tan-sa sitting across from a female human and a Tetrapod.

Tan-sa, addressing the camera. 

Tan-sa:

I’m here with Jennifer Tanaka (The human female gives a polite and subtle nod.) and Merzik (The Tetrapod gives a subtle wave with one of her mandibular tentacles and politely stamps her two front legs.), although you may know them better as Mercy and The Bug. Ladies… Thank you for taking the time to talk with me today.

Merzik:

*Tapping and clicking noises*

Subtitle: 

“It is our pleasure.”

Jennifer Tanaka:

Happy to be here Tan-sa.

Tan-sa:

So, is there anything you can tell us about the upcoming season? Any chance of Mercy reuniting with a certain Vizarian lady? 

Jennifer Tanaka:

(Phony laughter as though the question had not been pre approved in advance.) Well, Let’s just say the bathhouses in the P’toria District won’t be the only steam you’ll be seeing.

Tan-sa:

Ooh! Okay. (Now addressing Merzik specifically with a devilish glint in her eye.) Now, Miss Merzik. 

Merzik:

*Click, click, tap.*

Subtitle:

“Yes. I am also here.”

Tan-sa:

You were recently seen at Club Aqua with none other than the star of “Another World” himself, Liam Val. (Cut briefly to shaky paparazzi footage of Merzik in a neon soaked club dancing with Liam Val.) Any truth to the rumors?

Merzik:

*Angry tapping and clicking noises*

Subtitle:

Your embarrassment tactics will not work on me.

This interview has now concluded.

Tan-sa:

(Caught off guard.) Oh I… well… (Tan-sa, regaining her composure as she looks back toward the camera.) I… I want to thank Jennifer Tanaka and (We see the two women removing their mics and getting up to leave.) Miss Mer– (The feed cuts out.)

INT. THE ARCHIVE, DOCKING BAY

We see Mika awkwardly crawling out of the small port-hole in the floor being greeted almost immediately by a security guard.

Security Guard:

Mika Kumar?

Mika:

(Climbing out of the shuttle exit, slightly exasperated.) Yes, that’s me.

Security Guard:

I have orders to escort you to Com Room Delta.

Mika:

Ahh, just… show me the way.

Security Guard:

Right this way mam.

INT. HALLWAY

We see Mika and the security guard walking briskly down the hallway. Mika spots Director Lykra heading straight for her.

Mika:

Oh thank god. Director Lykra…

Director Lykra:

Mika. Are you alright? I take it you were notified about the priority message?

Mika:

I… yes, I was, but, Niv said to tell you that she is in prison cell uhh…

Director Lykra:

Ahck! Of course.

Mika:

It wasn’t her fault, she was–

Director Lykra:

I’m sure it was all in the line of duty. Not to worry, I’ll have her out of there soon enough. This is hardly the first time she’s used brute force to accomplish her goals. Right now though, you need to get to. (Lykra looks at the security guard.) Which Com Room was it?

Security Guard:

Com Room Delta.

Director Lykra:

Well let’s go! Double time soldier!

Lykra and the guard take off in a full sprint down the hallway with Mika taking up the rear.

INT. HALLWAY – OUTSIDE THE DOOR OF COM ROOM DELTA

We see Lykra and the guard standing at the door as Mika takes her last few strides to catch up. 

Mika comes to a stop, now doubled over, standing next to Director Lykra. Director Lykra looks down at Mika, pleasantly amused. 

Director Lykra:

I’ll have some exercise equipment sent to your quarters.

Mika:

(Out of breath.)Oh, that’s not necessary, but thank you.

Director Lykra:

Nonsense! All staff at The Archive are expected to maintain their minds and their bodies. Isn’t that right soldier? (Lykra looks to the security guard now standing watch at the entryway to the com room.)

The security guard, continuing to look directly ahead, gives a prideful and immediate nod in response.

Director Lykra:

Mika.

Mika:

Yes?

Director Lykra:

This message is for you only. That means unless you are given explicit permission by The Archive, you do not tell anyone what you are about to learn. That includes myself, Niv, your friends, your family. Do you understand?

Mika:

I do. I understand.

Director Lykra:

Alright, well, in you go.

As Mika’s breathing returns to normal she enters a small uninteresting room about 3x3x3 meters in size. As she begins to examine the space, the door shuts behind her and she finds herself in pitch blackness. We hear the sounds of something shifting in the room and the lights slowly come up. 

There is now a chair extending from the wall perfectly sized to Mika’s body. Mika takes the hint and cautiously approaches the chair. As she sits down she can feel her body being sucked onto the surface. She tries to get up, but she cannot move. 

Mika begins to feel panic creeping up her spine and then, an overwhelming sense of calm. She grows tired. Just as she is about to doze off she feels a tingle make its way up her spine. The tingle finds its way to her brain. Her eyes are shut, but she can see images, flashes of friends and family. 

The tingle in her mind turns to extreme pain. Her muscles tighten and she lets out a scream. For a moment she can understand everything. She understands The Archive and its purpose. She understands why it’s here. She can see the three metallic moons of List, in a far away galaxy no one has ever known. She understands the reason for it all. Every birth and every extinction.

INT. COM ROOM

Darkness. 

The door to the com room opens and we see the security guard peer in. 

Security Guard:

Director!

We see Mika lying on the floor of the com room, unconscious. The chair she was in is now gone.

Director Lykra rushes in. They crouch down to Mika. They turn to the security guard.

Director Lykra:

Call for Doctor Plora.

The security guard looks dumbfounded.

Director Lykra:

Call for Doctor Plora now!

We see the guard put a finger up to his ear.

Cue somber music. We pull out into the hallway with Mika lying on the floor and Lykra attempting resuscitation. They are framed perfectly in the doorway.

FADE TO BLACK.

ROLL CREDITS.

END OF CHAPTER 001.