TIME TRAX
"OUT OF CREDIT"
~~~~~~~~
TIME TRAX
"Out Of Credit"
CAST:
DARIEN LAMBERT
SELMA
MORDICAI SAHMBI
GARETH L'MONTEZ (Sahmbi's aide)
JODY (Sahmbi's woman - small part)
FUTURE
THE CHIEF
FRANK
LORE (Security Guard - small part)
BRENT (Scientist - small part)
2 PRIVATE OFFICERS (Small parts)
NON SPEAKING
VARIOUS SUPERNUMERARIES IN BOTH PRESENT AND FUTURE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TIME TRAX
"Out Of Credit"
SETS:
INTERIORS: EXTERIORS:
DARIEN'S HOTEL ROOM - LOUNGE AIRPORT
CAR FUTURE COMPLEX
AIRPORT
SAHMBI'S SUITE (STUDY, LOUNGE)
HOTEL CORRIDOR
TRAX COMPLEX
CHIEF'S OFFICE
FUTURE CORRIDOR
CHIEF'S OFFICE
FUTURE ELEVATOR
FUTURE SCIENCE LAB
FUTURE CONTROL ROOM
COMMERCIAL AIRPLANE
DARIEN'S APARTMENT (LOUNGE & KITCHEN)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TIME TRAX
"Out Of Credit"
TEASER
FADE IN:
INT. HOTEL LOUNGE ROOM - PAN AROUND ROOM
TIME: THE PRESENT
Room is a mess. Clothes, papers and the like all over the floor.
SELMA (V.O)
These are the journals of Darien
Lambert. Captain, Fugitive retrieval
section, A.D, 2193. (beat) The events
that will unfold defy all my common
sense and logic mechanisms, as my
Captain risks himself far beyond
the call of duty - (pause) for
which I shall be forever grateful.
Show Darien sitting back in a comfortable looking arm chair, watching a football game. Selma takes the liberty of appearing in her visual mode.
SELMA
(Mild impatience)
As you know, we have tracked Gareth
L'Montez to Akron, Ohio, and that is
why we are here. While you were asleep,
I interfaced with all flight computers
in this area. Unfortunately, I do not
have his appearance on file and I cannot
project it, and as I expected, he was not
listed amongst the passengers - However,
a Gary Monte was listed among the flight
crew.
Selma looks pleased with her deduction - and she sees Darien looking excited, then realizes her Captain's excitement is focused on the television set.
SELMA
(seemingly annoyed
raises voice a tad)
Captain, did you hear my-
DARIEN
Yes, I heard.
SELMA
As you know, Gareth has been imprisoned
twice - the first time when he eliminated
several high ranking politicians and made
clear his desire for ultimate power. The
second time, you are aware that he
disappeared. I suggest we start our
search at the airport.
(Seeing Darien's disinterest) -
Honestly, Captain - we have an important
mission to accomplish - not to be sitting
around loafing -
DARIEN
Loafing, Selma? This is history.
SELMA
I am well aware of your passion for this
sport, Captain. However, I see it only
as a crowd of people chasing an animal
skin ball around a field.
DARIEN
(shakes head)
There are just some things a computer
can't understand. But you're right
as usual. Voice mode.
Selma's holographic image disappears. Irritated, Darien grabs the remote control and switches the television off. He stands, grabs his jacket off the chair, puts it on and checks he has Selma's credit card mode in the pocket.
SELMA (V.O)
(hopeful)
If it means anything to you, Captain, I
can tell you who won the game.
DARIEN
(resigned)
Forget it.
Darien exits the room, locks and closes the door behind him.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. DARIEN'S CAR
Darien pulls up at the airport, specified by Selma. He seems to have gotten over his disappointment at missing the ending of the game. From inside the car, he looks around, taking in his surroundings, taps his fingers on the steering wheel a few times, then exits the car.
EXT. AIRPORT
Darien walks along the path, and up the stairs and enters the building.
INT. AIRPORT
Darien walks through the crowds of people, waiting for their flights.
DARIEN
I wish knew what the creep looks like.
INTERCOM VOICE
(In background as we
FOCUS ON DARIEN)
Flight Number 38 to Sydney has been
delayed 60 minutes. Passengers boarding
flight Number 46 to Toronto, the
aircraft has landed. Begin making your
way to boarding gate three.
Darien makes his way to a flight computer with the least amount of people. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out Selma. He's about to speak to her when two people stop to look at the flight times listed on the board. Darien steps back and pretends to look at it also. When the two people leave, Darien steps close to the computer terminal and inserts Selma into it.
DARIEN
(whispers)
Selma, check the flight roster. What's
the next flight Gareth's scheduled on?
SELMA
(whispers)
We are in luck, Captain- but you must
hurry. He's on flight 46 departing in -
20 minutes.
Darien wastes no time. He grabs Selma and sprints to the nearest ticket attendant.
TICKET ATTENDANT (Gareth)
Can I help you, sir?
DARIEN
I need a ticket for flight Number 46 to
Toronto. No baggage. Hurry.
TICKET ATTENDANT (Gareth)
You're in luck. There are still a few
seats available. Window or -
DARIEN
I don't care. I just need to be on
that flight.
TICKET ATTENDANT (Gareth)
Cash or charge?
Darien pulls out Selma.
DARIEN
Put it on my credit card.
Gareth takes Selma.
TICKET ATTENDANT (Gareth)
I'm sorry, sir, your credit card's
expired.
Gareth pulls out a pair of scissors and cuts Selma in half.
DARIEN
(shocked, horrified)
NO!! SEL-
TICKET ATTENDANT (Gareth)
I'm sorry, sir - no matter how
urgent your flight, I can't accept this
card. Will you pay cash?
Darien, still wide eyed and shocked, is paying little attention.
DARIEN
That was my special credit card. I
needed her ... it...
TICKET ATTENDANT (Gareth)
Forgive me, sir, but you can simply
have another one issued - unless you
have a bad credit rating or something.
DARIEN
It's not that.
TICKET ATTENDANT (Gareth)
I can still book your flight if you
can pay cash.
DARIEN
(mutters)
Forget it.
He grabs Selma's halves, and hurriedly leaves the building,
looking worried and lost.
INT. AIRPORT - TICKET ATTENDANT'S COUNTER
Gareth watches Darien until he is out of sight, them smiles and opens his jacket, revealing a small, futuristic looking communications device. He touches it, then softly speaks into it.
GARETH
It's done.
CUT TO:
INT. EXPENSIVE LOOKING SUITE - STUDY - LIT DIM
There is a large chair with its back to the camera.
PAN AROUND TO SHOW - a very satisfied looking Mordicai Sahmbi.
SAHMBI
(Wicked smile)
Good ...
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
~~~~~~~~~~~~
TIME TRAX
"Out Of Credit"
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
INT. DARIEN'S HOTEL ROOM
Darien approaches the table, wipes all the stuff off it onto the floor, and puts Selma's two credit card halves onto it. He slides them together.
DARIEN (slow)
Selma, respond. (Pause)
Selma, respond.
(Still nothing - Darien looks
worried - more urgent)
Voice mode - visual mode
(still nothing)
Selma!
Darien looks at the table in frustration.
DARIEN
What the hell am I going to do?!
He shuts his eyes for a moment, wishing it was all a bad dream, but knowing better. He opens his eyes and looks at Selma.
DARIEN
I need you, Selma - sure you're not
the best conversationalist, and you
could have let your hair down on
one or two occasions, but you've
got it where it counts ... I know
what you would say (mimics) Captain,
this is a most unfortunate incident,
but you can simply place an advertise-
ment in the Times for a replacement
computer - And you are quite capable
of completing your mission. - Thanks,
Selma, but it's not that simple ....
I find this hard to admit, but I've
become ... how can I say this ...
attached to you - ... (abrupt) Selma,
can you hear me?
CLOSE ON THE BROKEN CREDIT CARD
There is no response from Selma.
CUT TO:
INT. SAHMBI'S SUITE
Sahmbi is standing in the lounge area, speaking into a mobile phone device.
SAHMBI
You're set?
GARETH'S VOICE
Yes. I can't wait to get Lambert.
SAHMBI
(smile)
Nor can I. I knew our little set up
would draw that turd to us. I'm
through toying with him. Now's his
time. Go to the hotel I booked him
into and -
GARETH'S VOICE
(Interrupts)
Why couldn't we do this from the start?
Why all the -
SAHMBI
(Snaps)
Imbecile! Don't you think I've
thought this through?! That
maddening credit card of his is
a computer from our century. Now
he's alone and hasn't got it to
warn him. Do not question me
again.
GARETH'S VOICE
Sorry, sir.
SAHMBI
(Rolls eyes)
Proceed to the hotel as planned and be
inconspicuous. I want that meddling
bastard out of the picture for good.
Do not fail me.
GARETH'S VOICE
(Uneasy)
Yes, Sahmbi.
Sahmbi closes his phone, tosses it onto the sofa and smiles.
SAHMBI
Ohh, so pathetic, and controllable...
I love it!
TAKE IN WHOLE ROOM - SHOW BEDROOM DOOR
The door opens and a petite scantily clad woman (Jody) is seen.
JODY
(impatient)
Have you finished calling your mother?
Sahmbi turns around and smiles at her.
SAHMBI
Yes, sorry about that. She does have a
tendency to babble on.
Sahmbi walks toward her.
SAHMBI
Now where were we ...
They both ENTER the room and Sahmbi closes the door.
CUT TO:
INT. DARIEN'S HOTEL ROOM
Darien is sitting by the table, wondering what to do about Selma. He looks at the broken credit card on the table.
FOCUS ON DARIEN
He picks up Selma's halves, and holds them at the break, firmly, but doesn't force them hard together, in fear of damaging her any further.
DARIEN
Selma, respond. (pause - nothing)
Selma, Respond ... (still nothing)
Damn!
Darien puts Selma down and looks very frustrated, then his expression changes.
DARIEN
Sorry, Selma, this isn't your fault.
Darien stands, walks to a draw in the cabinet. He pulls out his user's manual.
CLOSE ON MANUAL
Darien goes to the contents page and slides his finger down the list until he comes to:
8. IN CASE OF DAMAGE ............................. 124
Darien immediately flips to that page.
DARIEN
(Reads aloud)
In case of damage to your Memory
Archive (murmurs) Fire damage ...
acid damage, water damage ...
(murmurs) explosion damage ...
Internal damage - here we are, turn
to page 136.
Darien's face shows impatience as he flips the pages.
DARIEN
O.K, 136. In case of internal damage
to your Memory Archive, consult an
experienced technician or have it
(Darien says that word with distaste)
replaced. That's it? What a fat load
of help that is! (Hurls the book across
the room) Well that's just GREAT!!!
Who the hell in this century knows
anything about repairing a 22nd century
computer! Oh I'm sure Sahmbi sent
a few experienced techicians back, but
I bet they'd be less help than that
damn manual! (Pause) ... I'm sorry,
Selma. None of this is helping you.
Darien shuts his eyes for a few moments both to calm himself and to think. He opens them a few moments later and looks directly at Selma, on the table.
DARIEN
Selma, I have an idea.
Darien walks to the telephone, picks up the receiver and dials a number.
CUT TO:
INT. CAR
Show Gareth driving toward Darien's hotel. He stops the car and pulls up at the hotel.
CUT TO:
INT. DARIEN'S HOTEL ROOM
Darien looks at Selma on the table.
DARIEN
Selma, I'm afraid I can only think
of one way to save you.
Darien picks up Selma's halves and puts them in his jacket
pocket. From the other pocket, he pulls out his Car Alarm PPT Transmitter and points it at himself.
DARIEN
It's now or never ...
He shuts his eyes as he presses the red PPT button. A red flash shoots out of it; Darien's body illuminates. We see a bright flash of light and he is gone.
THERE IS A KNOCK ON THE HOTEL ROOM DOOR
GARETH
Room service ...
INT. HOTEL CORRIDOR
Gareth is standing outside in a Hotel Staff uniform. He knocks on the door again, becoming impatient.
GARETH
Room Service.
Still there is no reply. Gareth reaches into his pocket pulls out a Master Key and opens the door.
INT. HOTEL ROOM
He pokes his head into the room and pulls out a gun.
GARETH
(Sweet sounding)
Knock, knock ... Room Service ...
He looks around the room and sees stuff all over the floor. Gareth pokes around the entire room, and becomes angry when Darien is nowhere to be found. He crossly pockets his gun, reaches into his pocket and pulls out a 22nd century communicator.
GARETH
Mo. (Pause)
SAHMBI'S VOICE
Well?
GARETH
(Swallows)
He's gone, sir.
SAHMBI'S VOICE
(Raised)
Gone?! What?!
GARETH
Yes - gone. I've searched the whole
room. He's not here and I can't
see his PPT either.
SAHMBI'S VOICE
You IDIOT! If you'd have gotten
there sooner, instead of arguing
with me ... Must I surround myself
with morons?!
GARETH
It's not my fault.
SAHMBI'S VOICE
(Very sarcastic)
It must be mine.
GARETH
I didn't say that.
SAHMBI'S VOICE
(Nonchalant)
All right ... Return here
immediately.
GARETH
Yes, sir.
SAHMBI'S VOICE
And keep watch for Lambert. I've
learned not to underestimate that
annoying Pig, as they call police in
this century. And Gareth, be sure
you're not followed.
GARETH
Yes, sir.
He ends communication with a disgusted look at the com-device.
GARETH
Three bags full, sir.
CUT TO:
INT. TRAX - 2193 - SHOW TRAX MACHINE
There is a blinding flash of light. SHOW DARIEN APPEARING. HOLD FOR A FEW SECONDS. The light dies down and Darien has
fully materialized on the Trax platform. He opens his eyes
and blinks a few times, takes a breath and looks around him.
EXPAND VIEW
There are numerous security guards pointing weapons at him. Darien looks uneasy and shocked at first and decides not to move. The guards put down their guns. One of them, Lore steps forward.
LORE
Darien! We weren't sure if it was
you.
Darien calms and nods.
LORE
The Chief's expecting you, but we
had to be sure it wasn't a trick.
DARIEN (nods)
I was hoping this was all a bad
dream... (beat) Take me to the chief.
Lore nods, and leads Darien out of the TRAX complex.
CUT TO:
INT. POLICE HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX CORRIDOR - 2193
Lore and Darien are walking down the corridor. Various supernumeraries are seen walking from place to place.
LORE
I apologize for the scare we gave you
back there, Captain Lambert, but -
DARIEN
No hard feelings, Lore. You were
doing your job - and I could well
have been a trick.
LORE
Thanks, Captain.
DARIEN
(smiles)
I'll take it from here.
LORE
As you wish.
Lore watches Darien walk down the corridor to the Chief's office.
CUT TO:
INT. CHIEF'S OFFICE
The chief is sitting at his desk. The door buzzer sounds.
CHIEF
Come in.
The door opens and Darien Enters. The Chief looks up slowly to meet Darien's eyes, then shakes his head.
CHIEF
I never expected to see you again in
my lifetime.
DARIEN
Likewise, Sir, but the unexpected has a
habit of popping up when you least
expect.
CHIEF
(Smiles)
How True. I'm still getting over it.
Your advertisement in the New York
Times ... very clever. I doubt Sahmbi or
any of his accomplices would have spotted
it. I knew straight away it was you. I
even laser copied a copy of the ad
myself. You crazy Bastard ... By the way,
thanks for the cigars. They were superb.
DARIEN
(Smiles)
I'm glad, but I'm afraid I'm all outta
cigars this time.
CHIEF
Is this about Sahmbi? Did you get him?
DARIEN
(Clear Disappointment)
I wish. Unfortunately no, Sir.
CHIEF
Nevertheless, you've done an admirable
job. The criminals you've sent back have
all been imprisoned. Did Sahmbi send you
back here?
DARIEN
No. It's personal.
Darien reaches into his pocket, pulls out Selma's halves and
puts them on the table.
CHIEF
What's that?
DARIEN
Selma.
CHIEF
(Frowns, and then-)
Your computer - yes of course.
DARIEN
I need to get her fixed. Where's Frank?
CHIEF
He's in the science lab. I'll come
with you.
The Chief stands and EXITS the office with Darien.
CLOSE ON A PAGE ON THE CHIEF'S DESK - DARIEN'S AD FROM THE NEW YORK TIMES. DATE 19/10/1995 --
Hi, Chief.
Did you like the cigars?
Making Trax now.
Crazy Bastard.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. FUTURE COMPLEX ELEVATOR - IN MOTION
Darien and the Chief stand together.
CHIEF
Darien, I - we're all thrilled to
see you back, but -
Before he is able to finish the elevator doors open and Darien looks relieved. He and the Chief EXIT the lift, on their way to the Science Lab.
CUT TO:
INT. SCIENCE LAB
Futuristic equipment is set up and Frank is monitoring a screen. The door to the lab opens. Darien enters with the Chief. Frank looks around and his eyes bulge.
DARIEN (Smiles)
It sure is flattering to be missed so
much.
FRANK
(Smiles ... jokingly)
Of course. We were afraid to send you
back to 1993. We thought you might not
want to come home.
DARIEN
Some things are beautiful there.
Thick Forests, less violence, hot
dogs, (small smile) - so many things
we don't have here.
FRANK
It's a shame it's ruined by filth like
Sahmbi.
DARIEN
I couldn't agree more.
FRANK
So what brings you back here?
Darien hands Frank Selma's halves.
DARIEN
It's Selma.
Frank takes the credit card halves.
FRANK
I see.
DARIEN
Can you fix her?
FRANK
I'll take a look. Come with me.
Darien follows Frank to a futuristic microscope on the table. Frank inserts Selma and takes a look, adjusting the microscope.
SHOW SELMA UNDER MICROSCOPE - MAJOR CONNECTION IS SEVERED.
Frank looks up at Darien.
FRANK
It looks bad. Her memory and
functional connections have been
severed. I don't know if there's
anything I can do.
DARIEN
(Worried)
Do everything you can for her.
CLOSE ON DARIEN'S WORRIED EXPRESSION as we --
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
~~~~~~~~~~~
TIME TRAX
"Out Of Credit"
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
EXT. POLICE HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX - 2193
Darien and the Chief sit on a bench outside, surrounded by grass and trees. Darien knows the Chief is going to ask him about Selma and avoids the subject.
DARIEN
I've been wondering about Lora
Darrow, ever since she returned
here. (Small smile) That annoying
Lawyer ... I'm glad she gave
you the cigars. (Smiles) What's
she up to these days anyway?
Setting more bad guys free?
CHIEF
(Smiles)
You'd be surprised, Darien. She
gave up the law entirely, not all
that long ago.
Darien looks genuinely surprised
DARIEN
Woah ... I've been away too long!
CHIEF
True, ... (Beat) ... I've known you
too long, Darien - you're stalling
- to avoid telling me why you've
come here.
Darien tries to look innocent, but has a "I knew he was going to ask" look on his face.
CHIEF
I don't understand, Darien. Why
couldn't you have put an advertisement
in the New York Times about your
computer? We would have done
something.
DARIEN
I knew I couldn't hide it from you
for long, Chief. It's not that
simple. I thought of it, but -
CHIEF
You were afraid Sahmbi would've
intercepted the advertisement?
DARIEN
(Shakes head)
It's not that. Selma's been
invaluable to my mission. I
couldn't've done half of it without
her and I've no doubt another memory
archive will be just as helpful -
but Selma and I ... I've become
used to her. We're partners ...
even friends. It's hard to
explain...
The Chief nods and smiles understandingly.
CHIEF
You don't have to explain anything,
Darien. We'll do everything we can
for Selma.
DARIEN
(Hopeful smile)
Thank you Chief. I knew you wouldn't
let me down.
CHIEF
(Smiles)
And don't worry about wearing a
uniform while you're here - Captain's
privilege.
DARIEN
(Smiles)
Never looked good on me anyway.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. LOUNGE AREA SAHMBI'S SUITE - PRESENT TIME
Sahmbi is standing, glaring daggers at Gareth.
SAHMBI
So where the hell is Darien
Lambert?!
Gareth remains silent. Sahmbi's face is quivering with rage.
SAHMBI
(Outraged)
I don't believe this! I give you a
simple job to do and -
GARETH
It wasn't my fault. I -
SAHMBI
(Snaps)
Do not interrupt me! We'll have to
deal with Lambert later - as for now,
I need to know when the shipment is
due.
The bedroom door flies open, and Jody, in a scanty night gown, sticks her head out, scowling.
JODY
(Cranky)
Will you guys keep the bloody ruckus
down?! I'm trying to get some sleep
for pete's sake!
Sahmbi looks around at her.
SAHMBI
(Sweet smile)
Sorry, darling. We'll quieten down.
Jody scowls and slams the door shut in a huff. Sahmbi's sweet smile disappears and he does not look too thrilled about being yelled at or interrupted, but decides not to go in after her - yet. Gareth has a big smirk on his face, which he instantly wipes off when Sahmbi turns back around.
SAHMBI
(Quieter)
When's it due?
GARETH
(Looks confident -
Also speaks quieter)
It's on it's way. Flight No. 26.
No one even suspected a thing. Not
so much as a peep out of customs -
or airport security.
SAHMBI
At least you've done something right.
What should I look out for?
GARETH
(Tries to ignore
Sahmbi's insult)
They've been hidden in a case of
stuffed toys - and coated with
Alvorine to make them pass straight
through the detection systems of
this century. All you have to do
is rip open the toys. I've arranged for
delivery here.
SAHMBI
(Evil smile)
Good - And Just be sure you don't
fail me again this time. - Get going.
GARETH
Yes, Sahmbi.
Gareth walks to the front door and EXITS the suite. Sahmbi watches him leave.
SAHMBI
(Disdainful, disgusted)
Pathetic imbecile ...
He walks to the bedroom door, turns the handle and ENTERS the room, closing the door behind him.
CUT TO:
INT. CONTROL ROOM - POLICE HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX - 2193
Darien stands with the Chief and inputs commands into the computer.
DARIEN
Give me everything you've got on
Gareth L'Montez - project visual.
A visual projection of the criminal appears. Darien stares and his face screws up in anger.
DARIEN
That bastard! He was the one
who cut Selma ... at the airport.
Damn!
In anger, Darien bashes the table with his fist as the computer continues, speaking with an annoying female voice.
COMPUTER VOICE
Gareth L'Montez was convicted and
arrested on 15/05/2183 for the smuggling of weapons
over three thousand prisoners escaped
killing thousands of prison employees and many
prisoners, few of whom have been recaptured.
Shortly after he was imprisoned,
Gareth L'montez disappeared without a
trace. It was later discovered that
Doctor Mordicai Sahmbi was behind the
mysterious disappearances of
criminals. Gareth is deemed
extremely dangerous and should not be
approached. It is believed it is
only a matter of time before he
kills again.
DARIEN
A matter of time ... How ironic ....
(Acidic whisper) That bastard ...
COMPUTER VOICE
Incorrect. Records on file state that
both Gareth L'montez' parents were
married when -
DARIEN
That's not what I meant.
COMPUTER VOICE
Please clarify.
DARIEN
Forget it.
COMPUTER VOICE
This Alpha Seven Memory Unit is
incapable of forgetting. It is
designed to -
DARIEN
(Frustrated, annoyed)
Delete inquiry.
CHIEF
(Amused)
I see why you prefer Selma.
Darien gives a half smile.
DARIEN
I think I have enough information
on the creep. Let's go see how
Selma's doing.
The Chief nods. He and Darien EXIT the control room.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. CORRIDOR - POLICE HEADQUARTERS 2193 - MOVING SHOT
Darien and the Chief walk down the corridor. They are passed by various supernumeraries in uniform.
BACKGROUND VOICES ARE HEARD -- FOCUS ON TWO YOUNG MALE POLICE OFFICERS (PRIVATES) IN THE CORRIDOR TOGETHER
Darien overhears what they're saying.
PRIVATE 1
Can you believe it? All this fuss
about a computer?
PRIVATE 2
Yeah - you think he'd just get
a new one. I mean you'd think
he thinks the thing's alive.
The officers laugh, unaware that Darien heard every word. The Chief tried to keep Darien back, but fails and Darien approaches the men, casually.
DARIEN
You men wouldn't be talking about me
by any chance, would you?
The officers look up in surprise.
PRIVATE 1
Captain Lambert, I - I mean we -
DARIEN
(Angry)
Save it, Private. (Beat)
What would you two know about
Selma anyway? - You don't know what
it's like - going back... Every time
I send back a criminal it seems that
there are more and more... It's
never-ending...
The two Privates look very uncomfortable as Darien continues.
DARIEN
Sure - at first I thought Selma -
Specified, Encapsulated,
Limitless, Memory, Archive - was
nothing more than a fancy computer
as well - but working with her, she
learned about me - I learned about
her - she's more than just a
computer. I don't know what that
means for you - you might even
think I'm going mad - (Beat)
PRIVATE 2
We don't think you're going mad,
Captain Lambert.
DARIEN
Good.
PRIVATE 1
(guilty)
We didn't realize Selma meant that
much to you, Captain - and if it
means anything to you, I hope she
can be fixed. (Beat) We've always
looked up to you, Captain Lambert
and if you can give us some words of
wisdom, we -
Darien gives a small smile and nods, seeming to forgive the men for their earlier insult.
DARIEN
The one thing I can think to say
to you two men right now is - Don't
be so quick to judge others -
understand them - because some day,
it'll be you being judged by them.
PRIVATES 1 AND 2
Thank you, Captain Lambert.
Darien nods.
DARIEN
Dismissed.
The two Privates walk off, looking guilty about what they said at first about Selma, but grateful to be forgiven and to have spoken with Captain Darien Lambert. Darien watches them go. The Chief walks to Darien in the middle of the corridor.
CHIEF
Lost in memories?
DARIEN
They remind me so much of myself when
I was younger - just starting - It
was like I was looking into a
mirror ... (Beat) It seems like
so long ago, but it wasn't that long
ago, was it, Chief?
CHIEF
(Shakes his head)
No, Darien, it wasn't. (Pause)
I must say your statement to those
two young officers was very profound,
coming from you.
DARIEN
(Smiles)
Thanks, Chief. (Beat)
It's really amazing how much one can
learn - how much one can change in
a short time.
CHIEF
(Nods)
Like Lora Darrow dropping everything
to do with law, dressing in floral
clothing and moving all by her
lonesome to the country.
DARIEN
(Tries to stifle a laugh)
Florals ... A country girl ...
Wow ... some people do change...
CHIEF
The intricate webs we weave ... How
much one can change in a short time -
It's ironic that time is just what
this is all about.
DARIEN
(nods)
How true. (Pause) ...
Chief, you honestly don't think I'm
going mad, do you?
The Chief studies Darien.
CHIEF
What do you think? Do you think
you're going crazy - that Selma
is only a computer, full of nothing
more than wires and circuits and
you're making a big fuss over
nothing?
DARIEN
(After a Pause)
No. She's the reason I came back
here.
CHIEF
Well, there's your answer. Sometimes
you need look no deeper or further
than yourself.
Darien nods. He and the Chief continue to walk down the corridor, toward the science lab.
INTERCOM VOICE (Female)
Chief, your presence is
required to greet the Procardian
delegation. Please proceed to
conference room 4.
The Chief turns to Darien.
CHIEF
I'm sorry, but I'll have to leave
you here. I'll see you again before
you leave.
Darien nods.
DARIEN
Procardians .... (Smiles) I hope
they've taken good care of their
two children I sent back ...
Darien and watches the Chief hurry down the corridor, then he focuses his attention on Selma and continues to walk down the corridor to the science lab.
CUT TO:
INT. SCIENCE LAB - 2193
Frank is sitting at a table and has a futuristic microscope headset on. He's working with small, delicate 2193 tools. He activates the tool and a constant hair thin yellow laser
like beam shoots out of it. Frank does the same with the other tool, except this one emits a constant slightly thicker blue beam. Both sides of Selma have been propped up vertically, held in place by a technical vice. Frank touches the beam to her severed edges, facing upward and begins to operate inside her.
FRANK
I hope this works ...
CLOSE ON SELMA AND BEAMS
While Frank is operating inside Semla, some sparks suddenly out of her.
FRANK
(Gasps, horrified)
DAMN!! Power surge!
He instantly looks up to the other scientist in the room.
FRANK
(Urgent)
Brent, get me the transformer
beam Hurry!
Frank turns off the other tools and watches Brent worriedly as the other scientist rushes to the equipment cabinet, grabs the transformer beam and hands it to Frank with equal urgency.
BRENT
(Hurriedly)
Here!
Frank takes it with haste, looks down at Selma, under the
microscope, activates the tool and begins to operate inside
her.
FRANK
(Talks while he's
working - upset)
I should have seen that, dammit!
Brent watches Frank work.
BRENT
(Comforting)
It wasn't your fault.
FRANK
I know. We all make mistakes, but
I could have cost Selma her life.
She's much more than just a computer.
BRENT
(Assuring)
I know. She'll be all right.
FRANK
I sure hope so, because if she
doesn't stabilize - there's only
one thing we can do.
BRENT
What's that?
FRANK
(Deadly serious)
Bury her.
Frank looks down and carries on, madly trying to stabilize
Selma, while Brent observes, ready to help. They both look anxious as we -
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
~~~~~~~
TIME TRAX
"Out Of Credit"
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
INT. SCIENCE LAB - 2193
Frank is standing by the table, still wearing the microscope headset. Darien and the Chief are standing with him, but don't interrupt him.
CLOSE ON SELMA
Her credit card halves lie on the table. Frank slides them together, picks up yet another futuristic tool and activates it. It emits a thin, delicate yellow beam. Frank begins to weld Selma's halves together, as Darien and the Chief watch in silence.
SHOW SELMA BEING WELDED. AS FRANK SLIDES THE BEAM ACROSS HER BREAK, SHOW THE CREDIT CARD HALVES NEATLY WELDING TOGETHER.
Frank finishes welding Selma's halves together. He takes a breath, then studies Selma closely. The breakage is no longer visible - even under the microscope. Frank looks up, and takes the microscope headset off, looking rather dishevelled. He carefully picks up Selma and hands her to Darien. Darien takes Selma from Frank, grateful and hopeful.
DARIEN
Thank you ... Selma, visual mode.
FRANK
She's recharging on battery power
now. It'll take some time - a few
days at the very least for her to
charge properly - and that power
surge within her systems didn't
help matters. I didn't want to
risk energizing her too quickly.
That'd overload her systems - and
damage the delicate repair work,
which needs time to heal properly.
I've done the best I can - used the
finest tools and equipment I have.
Some of the damage was quite severe.
To be honest, Darien, she may not
reactivate at all.
DARIEN
(Nods, understanding
-- sincere)
I can't thank you enough, Frank.
Without your help she wouldn't
Even have a chance of reactivating
at all.
FRANK
(Smiles understandingly)
She really means a lot to you,
Doesn't she?
DARIEN
(Sad)
Y'know, Frank, Selma and I talk about
a lot of things. I told her she
looked like my mother. She does,
you know.
Darien pauses, thinking of his mother's senseless death.
FRANK
Selma is capable of altering her
holographic Visual Mode appearance
slightly if she desired.
DARIEN
(smiles)
I know. She once tried to impress
me by copying clothes and
hairstyles from a fashion show. But
I much preferred her original
appearance. (Beat) I didn't tell
Selma this, but the time when
she was kidnapped -
FRANK
(Cuts in -
extremely surprised)
Kidnapped?!!
DARIEN
(Half smiles)
Two men pinched my wallet - it sounds
funny now, looking back. But I
remember feeling so worried for her.
When someone, another policeman -
nice fellow - we teamed up together.
He told me that they'd use the
credit card, "and then destroy it..."
I didn't know what I would do
without Selma. Everything turned
out all right in the end, and Selma
(MORE)
DARIEN (CONT'D)
was safe, after almost being burned
to death in a fire, but she was
okay - but I've never told her - never
really told her how much she means
to me.
FRANK
(Smiles)
I'm sure she feels the same way
about you.
Darien gives a startled, but hopeful look.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. TRAX COMPLEX - 2193
Darien, Frank and the Chief stand together.
CHIEF
Darien, we got the advertisement
you placed in the New York Times
about Sepp Dietrich's third exposure
to TXP, and since then, we've
modified TXP. It's safe for a
third exposure.
DARIEN
(Beat) Actually, Chief, this is going
to be my Fourth exposure - thanks to
Sahmbi. Fortunately, I wasn't
exposed to his TXP for long - or at
full potential - and I have Selma
to thank for saving me.
CHIEF
But you might not make it back.
DARIEN
I have to do this, Chief. There's no
room for trying anymore. I didn't
come back here to fail now.
FRANK
I can't guarantee it will work - even
if Sahmbi's exposure was slight - and
even if it does work - you'll need a
fifth exposure of TXP to come back
home - and I can definitely say that
we haven't looked that far into it.
You might never be able to come home
again.
DARIEN
(After a pause)
I know, (beat), but I chose this job -
and risks are part of it. This crazy
bastard has a mission. I came here to
save a friend - not to give up.
The Chief shakes his head.
CHIEF
If only there were more crazy
bastards like you in the world,
Darien. I sincerely hope Selma
pulls through.
DARIEN
Selma's help has been invaluable -
and her information and insight has
helped me tremendously. She's
saved my life more than once - I'd be
dead now if it wasn't for her - and
I never could have found or sent
any of those creeps back.
(Pause - sighs) If she doesn't
make it, I'm not going to abandon my
mission. It's gone far beyond Alyssa.
I'm doing it, not only for her, but
for me and Selma - to clean the world
of filth like Sahmbi. I often dream
about what it would be like without
crime - It may not happen in my
lifetime, Chief, but it will happen.
CHIEF
You'll go down in history, Darien,
Just like your father. You'll make it a
heroes name.
DARIEN
There's no such thing as a hero,
Chief, only truth. Justice, loyalty,
understanding, compassion and
devotion are what make a person true.
CHIEF
(Smiles)
No one could have said it better.
ANGLE ON FRANK
FRANK
Darien, I too sincerely hope Selma
makes it, but if she doesn't, we'll
send you a new computer - just place
(MORE)
FRANK (CONT'D)
an ad in the Times. We're currently
working on a theory which will allow
objects to be transported through
time using TXP and also the
information you gave us on Sahmbi's
nuclear waste transporting device.
The tests have all proved positive.
DARIEN
Keep up the good work - and don't
worry about Sahmbi using that device
again. Selma and I took care of that.
CHIEF
Let's get you back. Good luck, you
crazy bastard, you. (Smile) Let us
know you made it all right - keep
those ads and criminals rolling in!
DARIEN
I will, I promise.
Darien puts Selma into his jacket pocket pats the pocket.
The Chief hands Darien a TXP capsule, and Darien swallows it.
DARIEN
I guess it's now or never, Selma.
Darien steps into the TRAX machine. Frank begins to operate it. He looks up.
FRANK
Good luck, Darien.
There is a bright flash of light.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT SAHMBI'S SUITE - LOUNGE AREA
Sahmbi and Gareth stand next to a large metal crate in the center of the lounge room.
GARETH
(Satisfied)
There, they are, Mo.
SAHMBI
Despite your incompetence and your
bungled attempt to get Lambert,
Gareth, I'm impressed.
Gareth smiles. He takes the top off the crate to reveal several harmless looking plush toys. Sahmbi smiles. Gareth
reaches into the crate and pulls out a large teddy bear. He rips open the back stitching, pulls out a bunch of stuffing, throws it away, then digs inside the bear and pulls out a rather large gun. He flicks off the safety switch and points it directly at Sahmbi.
GARETH
Don't move, Sahmbi. (Beat) Not so
bossy now, are we? Did you really
think I smuggled all these weapons
for your benefit? I paid you to send
me here, to escape death in my century.
They'd just capture me again. I
couldn't rule there - that's why I came
here - and I began to plot.
Everything was coming alone nicely,
then I learned you were here.
SAHMBI
And you laid low, plotting against
me. A clever plan. I may have
underestimated you, Gareth, but if
you expect me to grovel, you're
sadly mistaken.
GARETH
Be thankful I'm not into humiliation.
You run your send-backs here by fear
and manipulation and you've got a
reputation for being cruel, ruthless
and merciless - Well, So have I --
Gareth pulls the trigger. The gun clicks, but nothing happens. Gareth swallows, looks confused and shocked. In Gareth's confusion, Sahmbi pulls a small, flat black rectangular device out of his suit jacket pocket. Gareth is madly digging in the toy chest for another weapon.
SAHMBI
Don't bother. It was a clever
scheme, but I'm well aware of your
obsession for power. Did you really
think I'd trust you?
Gareth stands up from the crate.
GARETH
The weapons were all loaded ... I
don't understand ...
SAHMBI
I have eyes and ears everywhere. You
should know that. Some of my 'send-
backs' as you call them are loyal
to me.
GARETH
But where's the ammo?
SAHMBI
Tsk, tsk, tsk, now that's be telling.
Let's just say it's all safe.
Sahmbi points the device in his hand at Gareth. Gareth's eyes widen and he backs off.
GARETH
(terrified)
Mo .... we can work this out ...
I mean ... I was wrong. I underestimated
you and I'm sorry.
SAHMBI
Oh, it's a bit late for that, and you
don't really expect me to believe you
do you? You're pathetic.
Sahmbi raises the weapon.
GARETH
(petrified)
Sahmbi .... NO!!! PLEASE!!!
SAHMBI
(smiles)
Who's grovelling now?
He presses the button. A yellow beam of light shoots out of it, engulfs Gareth's body. Gareth falls to the floor, dead. At the same time, Jody is coming out of the bedroom. She sees Gareth being shot, and screams. She tries to make a run for it, but Sahmbi shoots her with the weapon, and an instant later, she's dead on the floor too. Sahmbi smiles and looks at his weapon.
SAHMBI
Never leave home without it. (Pause)
Come.
Two burly men come out of a closet, on cue.
SAHMBI
You know what to do with them.
Sahmbi indicates toward Gareth's body, then looks at Jody lying motionless on the floor, in a skimpy dress.
SAHMBI
(mock sorrow)
Apologies my dear, but I couldn't have
(MORE)
SAHMBI (CONT'D)
you running off to the police, now,
could I? (He looks to the two men)
Take them away.
The two large men pick up the bodies and put them into the crate, and EXIT Sahmbi's suite with it. Sahmbi watches them go.
PAN OVER TO FAR WALL AND UP
There is a color photograph of Darien Lambert on the wall. Sahmbi changes the setting on the weapon and fires. A beam of light hits the photograph.
CLOSE ON PHOTOGRAPH
SHOW the photograph of Darien burning.
SAHMBI
(V.O - whisper)
In time, Darien, in time ...
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT THREE
~~~~~~
TIME TRAX
"Out Of Credit"
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
INT. DARIEN'S HOTEL ROOM
TIME: THE PRESENT
Show room as in ACT ONE. There is a bright flash of light and Darien appears in the middle of the room. The light dies down. Darien opens his eyes and takes a few moments to compose himself and looks relieved.
DARIEN
Well, Selma, we made it.
Darien looks around the room.
DARIEN
Frank said you'd need some time to
charge and I think I need a rest too.
He sits down in the chair, picks up the remote control, and switches the television on to the NEWS.
ANGLE ON TELEVISION SET
NEWS REPORTER
(On TV)
Our Major story tonight, flight
attendant Gary Monte was found
dead a few hours ago -
ANGLE ON DARIEN, WHILE THE REPORTER IS TALKING
Darien's eyes widen, he leans forward, turns up the volume with the remote control and is glued to the television set.
NEWS REPORTER (Cont)
Apparently the deceased had been
involved in a major inside weapons
smuggling operation. The woman
found dead with him has been
identified as Jody Piller, a local
prostitute. It is unclear of the
exact cause of death, but it's
reported that their entire bodies
just ceased to function. Foul play
(MORE)
NEWS REPORTER (CONT'D)
is suspected, but no suspects or
weapon have been found. Gary
Monte's accomplices are still
at large. Now, onto a lighter
note, a pod of beached whales
have been rescued -
Darien switches off the television.
DARIEN
Serves the bastard right ... God,
I wish I could tell them - but
they won't believe me. Power of
the Alaret stone won't be discovered
until the 22nd century, and widely
used for many purposes - and
unfortunately weapons too - and I
bet I know who brought an Alaret
blaster to this century ... And he's
more than likely long gone by now -
(Disgusted tone) And just like
Sahmbi to take advantage of that
poor woman ... (Darien makes a fist,
Conviction, promise) One day,
Sahmbi ...
Darien pats his pocket, not wishing to dwell on the subject of Sahmbi.
DARIEN
How you doing, Selma?
No response.
DARIEN
Well, there's nothing left
for us to do here, let's go home.
(Determined, hopeful) Don't worry,
Selma, you're going to be fine.
Frank said you'll need some time.
Just rest there.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. COMMERCIAL AIRPLANE
Darien is sitting in a window seat, hand in his pocket, fast asleep.
HOLD ON DARIEN FOR A FEW SECONDS, THEN -
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. DARIEN'S APARTMENT
Darien enters, carrying a duffel bag, which he dumps on the sofa.
DARIEN
Ahh ... home, sweet home.
He reaches into his pocket, pulls out Selma and sets her down on the table and goes into the kitchen.
INT. KITCHEN
Darien finds a tin of spaghetti, pulls the lid back, gets a fork from the drawer and wolfs the contents down, then discards the empty tin and throws the fork into the sink, like a dart.
DARIEN
Whoa, I didn't know time travel
could make you so hungry! I needed
that.
He walks out of the kitchen.
INT. LOUNGE ROOM
Darien walks into the lounge room.
SELMA (V.O)
I trust you are well fed, Captain?
Darien spins around, his face showing utter joy, relief and amazement.
DARIEN
(overjoyed)
SELMA!!! Oh, thank God!
SELMA (V.O)
No - thank you.
Darien smiles and tried to hold back tears.
DARIEN
I could hug you! ... Visual mode.
Selma appears in her visual mode, with her auburn hair cascading past her shoulders. Darien looks surprised.
SELMA
Someone once told me to let my
hair down ...
DARIEN
(curious)
Selma, when you were ... damaged,
was any part of you conscious?
SELMA
Yes, Captain, but I could not speak
or perform any of my functions, and
my signal was growing weaker. I
wanted so much to speak to you,
but -
DARIEN
(understanding)
You must've been very frightened.
SELMA
I am incapable of feeling frightened.
Darien does not look convinced.
SELMA
(After a pause, sounding guilty)
Because of me, you may never be able
to return home again.
DARIEN
No regrets, Selma. I don't want you
to feel guilty. They're doing tests
making TXP safer, and to be honest,
I don't exactly know where home is
anymore. I've grown to love it
here, like a second home, but I
miss my time and the people there
- but our mission is here - to
make our world safe.
SELMA
And complete it we will. I owe my
existence to you, Captain.
(Sincere - looks as if she's about
to cry) Thank you.
DARIEN
You've saved my life too, Selma, so
we're even. (Smiles)
SELMA
(Smiles)
Captain, I am most grateful for what
you risked for me, but could you
not simply have requested another
memory archive?
DARIEN
Don't put yourself down, Selma. You
know you're much more than a
computer to me.
SELMA
Thank you. I am glad, Captain, and you
are much more than a biological life
form to me.
Darien smiles. Long pause.
DARIEN
(Slow, sincere, finding the words
difficult to say and holding
back tears)
I ... I love ... you, Selma.
He puts his arms around her visual form. Selma returns the embrace.
SELMA
(Equally sincere)
The feeling is mutual, Darien.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FOUR
THE END.
~~~~~~~~~