Today, on December 6th, 343 A.D., a great man passed away and a wonderful tradition was born. Known only as Nicolas, this man grew up to be the most generous man history would ever know. Born in 280 A.D., Nicolas lived in affluence and had a strong Christian background. At the age of 16, both parents died and a very young Nicolas inherited a fortune. However, instead of spending it like most teenagers would, Nicolas traveled the country of what is now Italy, secretly giving away his fortune to those in need, especially children.

Although generous, Nicolas had this strange quirk about the way he gave his gifts, he didn’t want anyone to know who their benefactor was. Kind of like Mr. Tipton in the old show “The Millionaire,” Nicolas went to great lengths to keep his generosity a secret. But alas, one night he got busted.

Nicolas had heard of a farmer who had been robbed. Now, the farmer’s 3 daughter’s no longer had dowries. You see, back then, ladies of marrying age needed dowries if they were going to attract “desirable” men. Without them, some would resort to prostitution rather than marry a slug. Sounds crazy, but it’s true. Upon hearing about the farmer and his daughter’s problem, Nicolas decided to help. For 2 nights in a row he’d walk past the open window of the farmer’s house and toss in a bag of gold. The farmer was ecstatic, but curious as to who was doing this. So, on the 3rd night, he hid outside to find out. As Nicolas strode past the window with the bag of gold in his hand and his armed cocked, the farmer jumped out in front of him with a big “AH -HA!” Nicolas froze, smiled and tossed the bag through the window. Strangely enough, it landed inside one of the daughter’s stocking that was hung on the fire place mantel to dry. Boy did that ever start a tradition! Nicolas asked the farmer to promise he’d never tell anyone who gave him the gold, but I suppose the farmer must have been a blabbermouth, because it wasn’t long before stories of Nicolas’ generosity spread across the land like wild fire.

Soon, the good folks of Myra decided to elected him as their new Bishop and Nicolas spent the rest of his natural life helping and giving. By the year 450 A.D., churches in Asia Minor were being named after him and by the 800’s, he had been officially recognized as a Saint by the Eastern Catholic Church. In the 1200’s, December 6th began to be celebrated as Bishop Nicolas Day in France. By the 1400’s, Saint Nicolas was considered the most beloved religious figure after Jesus and Mary, with more than 2000 Chapels and Monasteries named in his honor.

As time moseyed on, stories from other countries became “blended” with the historical facts about the real Nicolas. Like a game of “Pass It On,” each country would add their own tale about the generous Saint. Even his name became “skewed.” In the Dutch language, the name “Saint Nicolas” translates into “Sinter Klass,” which soon became “Santa Klass” and finally “Santa Claus.” Add a poem in 1823, by Clement Clark More, “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” now better known as “The Night Before Christmas,” a portrait published in 1863 by Harper’s Weekly, drawn by a political cartoonist named Thomas Nast, and whammo, you have a new holiday tradition.

Ah yes, I’m talking about our wonderful and beloved Santa Claus. To me, Santa is like a Super-Hero. I know, I know, we’re supposed to be celebrating the birth of Christ who is also a Super-Hero. I DO get that. But Santa has been as much a part of that wonderful story of our Savior as Jesus. In my mind, Santa is a “gateway” to the story of Jesus.

With Santa, children are introduced to the concept of generosity. They become familiar with how it feels to receive, but as they get older, they’ll naturally become curious about the other side of the transaction, how it feels to give. This is where Santa steps off and Jesus comes in. Giving is what Jesus is all about as He gave us the most precious gift of all – salvation. So, I’ve never had a problem with mixing-up Santa and Jesus on the same holiday. I believe each holds a firm place behind the meaning of the tradition, so much so, I wrote a script about it.

It’s called “The Book of Santa.” It’s the story of two best friends, Jesus and Nicolas, and how that friendship led Nicolas to become Santa Claus.

Since the script is about Saint Nicolas, I felt December 6th was the most appropriate day to publish it. I hope you like it! Happy Saint Nicolas Day!!!

CLICK HERE to read “The Book of Santa“

A new creation from my mind to your eyes.

It is the year 2525.

And these are the chronicles of the Intergalactic Cruiser,  Galaxy-One.

GO to Galaxy-One

зрелые эротика большие порно смотреть онлайн

I hope you enjoyed Act 6 !!!

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea – Act 7

to see the pdf version with the proper script formatting

Thanks For Reading !!!

****************************************************************************

ACT 7 – Final

Ext. Ocean – Nuclear Torpedo Target Site

Through a burst of bubbles three divers emerge from hatches on the top of the Seaview. Small jets in their modified flippers shoot them away from the sub.

Encapsulated by an orange glow, the crushing water is kept several inches from suits, creating a dry area around their hands. Each carries golf club size rods.

After a brief swim, the divers reach their target. They start pushing the rods in the ocean floor. After each is inserted, a light on the top begins flashing.

Int Seaview – Crane’s Quarters

Paperwork and open books are scattered about. Crane has his face buried in the text scrolling across his monitor.

He shuffles through some loose paperwork on the floor and exposes a hard back book. He snatches it, lays it on his lap and leafs through its pages.

A female voice reports through the cabin’s speakers: Translation Complete. Crane drops the book and begins reading the text on his monitor. His eyes widen.

Ext. Ocean – Nuclear Torpedo Target Site

The diver inserting the last rod gives the rest a thumbs up. They fall into formation and jet for the Seaview.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Nelson and Morton are returning to their seats. The control room speakers come alive with a male voice.

voice

Control Room. The diving team has returned. Target beacons in place.

Morton

Acknowledged. Prepare to get underway.

Nelson

Where’s the Captain?

Morton checks his console.

Morton

Still in his quarters, sir.

Nelson

Let’s get him up here.

Ext. Ocean – Nuclear Torpedo Target Site

The Seaview floats motionless just above the ocean floor, it’s glass nose pointed toward several flashing lights far in the distance.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The crew are poised behind their consoles, hands at the ready. The only sound is the normal hum of the control room. Many eyes occasionally glance at Crane’s empty chair.

Nelson drums his fingers.

Nelson

We can’t wait any longer.

He presses a button.

Nelson

Attention all hands. Nuclear torpedo launch in sixty seconds. Stand by.

Crane skips down the spiral staircase.

Crane

Admiral, wait sir. I have something you must look at before we fire.

Nelson

Captain, now is not the time…

Crane

Two minutes, Admiral. I know we can spare the time. Sir, please, just two minutes.

Nelson glances at the crew, then back to Crane.

Nelson

Alright, what have you got?

Crane

Mister Morton, join us at the Situation Table.

Nelson and Morton follow Crane to the back of the control room where he brings the table to life with holographic images and data.

Crane

I knew I had seen those inscriptions before.

A 3D image of the pyramid rotates above the table. The image zooms in on one of the pyramid’s sides revealing a close up of the chiseled hieroglyphs.

Crane

Admiral, the Mayans had an extensive language that’s been mostly deciphered using the Mayan equivalent of a Rosetta Stone. Our computer just used that decipher code to translate the inscriptions on the pyramid. Listen to what it says, Admiral.

Crane pushes a button and the 3D image overlays the English translation of the stone inscription. He reads.

Crane

For those who come after. To-Mira Goddess of the future, bestows this gift. May the wise among you understand its meaning, so your children may live to see the new sun.

Nelson

Goddess of the future? What new sun?

Crane

Admiral, the Mayan calendar ends this year or shall I say a new cycle begins. A new cycle of the sun. A new long count.

Nelson rubs his neck.

Nelson

Lee, what does this have to do…

Crane

There’s more, sir. Look at these inscriptions.

Crane presses buttons and four symbols appear:

Crane

The triangle represents the pyramid, the straight line, a path. Presumably the rock one that lead us to the pyramid. The mound at the bottom represents a mountain and the diagonal lines shooting out of it, fire.

This new information intrigues Nelson. He looks closer at the display.

Nelson

I believe the arrow are…

Crane

Spears. According to these inscriptions very exceptional spears. They ‘carry the lives of all who come after, so each must be hardened to four times the square of the crest.’ Sir, that number works out to precisely one hundred thousand.

Morton

The exact megaton yield of each of the torpedoes.

Crane

And we’re the only submarine on Earth that carries that type of torpedo. You said it yourself Admiral, the Seaview IS the solution.

Nelson ponders. Crane continues to read.

Crane

The crest will steady your spear, the path will guide your aim.

The Admiral is beginning to look slightly impressed.

Crane

The spears penetrating the mountain, turning it into rubble. The fire vanishing, it all fits, Admiral.

Nelson studies the data, then shakes his head.

Nelson

I don’t know, is there anything else? Something more scientific?

Crane

No sir. It ends basically saying ‘here’s what you need to save yourselves. Hope you’re smart enough to figure it out.’ The rest of the inscriptions talks about how the volcanic activity will ‘swallow the world in fire’ unless we follow the words of To-Mira.

Nelson

Lee, this is all very fascinating but if you’re suggesting we turn the fate of the world over to a thousand year old prophecy…

Crane again presses buttons.

Crane

How about this Admiral? A geological survey we recorded less than twenty four hours ago of ground zero.

The 3D image zooms in on the pyramid’s symbol and traces an outline of it. Then, overlays the outline on top of the of geological survey depicting the mountain, path and pyramid.

They match exactly.

Crane

I don’t know how, divine intervention, extraterrestrials, or just a lucky guess. But I do believe a thousand years ago some genius did predict this event. The Mayans, or someone, built this pyramid in hopes future generations would someday use it to save themselves.

Nelson

How could anyone have known about tectonic plate movement a thousand years ago?

Crane

How could anyone have built a pyramid at the bottom of the ocean a thousand years ago? But there it stands.

Nelson

Lee, this could cause irreversible damage. I would need time to study this plan and that’s one luxury we no longer have.

Crane

Admiral, I’ve already calculated a firing solution using the hieroglyphs’ translation.

The holographic pyramid dissolves and is replaced with text, numbers and graphics. Nelson studies them closely. His face turns expressionless.

Nelson

Captain, are you sure you’re showing me the right data?

Crane

Yes, sir. Why?

Nelson

Because this precisely matches my first choice for a delivery location. Although it has the perfect firing solution, the Seaview would be too close to endure the aftershocks.

Crane

But according to the inscriptions, if our ‘chariot’ is fast enough, we should be able to out run the wave. The simulations give it an eighty eight percent chance of success.

The holograph now dissolves into a 3D animation of Crane’s description, the Seaview outrunning a shock wave. Nelson ponders.

Nelson

Your opinion mister Morton?

Morton

Seems more than coincidental to me, sir. Especially in light of the fact that this WAS your first solution.

Crane

I know it’s a leap of faith Admiral, but for me, it’s just too persuasive to ignore. You told me to keep reminding you of the alternatives. Well, sir, here’s mine.

Nelson steps away and ponders. After a couple of paces he returns and glares at the holographic data.

Nelson

Alright Captain, takes us back to your pyramid as fast as she can go. We have very little time left.

Ext. Ocean – Near The Pyramid Site

The Seaview slows from Slipstream to prop speed as it closes in on the pyramid. In the distance, the lava geysers are now spewing the top of the mountain.

Multiple small explosions from the gorge hurtle shock waves and lava in all directions.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The sub shakes, the crew is jostled.

Richter

Encountering phase three buffeting, Captain.

Crane

Compensate mister Richter.

Ext. Ocean – Near The Pyramid Site

Along the Seaview’s side, the maneuvering thrusters come to life and soften the rocking.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane

Mister Keno, distance to target?

Keno

Half a mile ahead sir, at z-minus two thousand.

Nelson makes his way to the glass nose and gazes at the volcanic spectacle. Crane steps up.

Nelson

It’s grown larger than I expected. It shouldn’t be at this magnitude until…

As seen through the glass nose, a giant explosion illuminates the ocean. A shock wave carrying tons of red-hot boulders hurtles toward the Seaview.

Kowalski

Brace for impact. Compressive shock wave bearing down. It’s carrying debris.

Morton

Shields to maximum.

Crane wheels around.

Crane

Close Crash Doors!

Nelson and Crane stand firm as their view of the eminent collision is obscured by the scalloped edges of the Crash Doors.

Ext. Ocean – Near The Pyramid Site

The giant doors smother the glass nose as the wave rushes by, hammering the hull with huge glowing globs of lava. The sub rocks and sparkles at the shields repelling the hits.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Kowalski

Shields holding, sir. Minimal hull damage.

Ext. Ocean – Near The Pyramid Site

The Seaview settles as the last of the hot boulders bounce off the hull’s silver glow.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Kowalski

Wave dissipating. Debris is clearing.

Morton

No mission damage, Captain. All stations reporting ready, sir.

Crane consults his console. Nelson takes his seat.

Crane

Very well. Maintain course. Ahead full.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

The Seaview slowly descends while aligning itself with the rock path. Small shock waves continue to quake the sub as it glides toward a landing on the flat top of the pyramid.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane stands behind Keno, swaying as the sub encounters the shock waves. The rest of the crew is intensely monitoring their consoles.

Keno

On glide path.

Richter

Speed, ten FPS.

Crane

Slow our decent helm.

Kowalski

Distance to target. Thirty eight feet.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

The side thrusters churn dirt around the pyramid as the Seaview closes in on the crest. Two horseshoe shaped protrusion extends at both ends of its flat top.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Keno concentrates on his display as he regulates the Seaview’s decent toward a perfect landing.

Richter

Fifteen feet, sir.

Crane

Sit us down, mister Keno.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

The Seaview makes a graceful landing on the pyramid’s crest, nestling itself inside the horseshoe-shaped protrusions.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

A slight thud is heard. Richter looks at Crane.

Richter

Contact sir.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

The underside of the Seaview fits the crest perfectly. The occasional shock wave throws the sub off balance, lifting it slightly. The thrusters labor to keep it down.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The crew hangs on as the Seaview rocks to and fro. A second later the shaking subsides.

Keno

Thrusters at station keeping. We’re in position, Captain.

A graphic appears on Kowalski’s monitor.

Kowalski

At the moment, aim is true. Ready to commence firing sequence, sir.

Crane takes the command chair, giving Morton and Nelson a quick glance.

Crane

Gentlemen.

Crane, Nelson and Morton press their index finger against oval slots on their consoles, then enter passwords. Their display screens flash in unison: TORPEDO CONTROL ONLINE.

Crane

Mister Morton.

Morton steadies himself as another small wave thwarts his button pushing. A green flashing graphic soon appears on his monitor.

Morton

I have torpedo firing control Captain.

Crane

Very well, flood tubes and activate firing sequence.

Morton responds with “aye sir” and presses buttons. His monitor displays the progress. A small wave hits. The crew hangs on until it passes.

Morton

Tubes one and two flooded sir. Firing sequence activated. Nuclear detonation at contact plus one thousand feet. Outer doors opening.

Morton gawks at his monitor which appears to be frozen.

Morton

Outer doors are suppose to open…

Morton presses buttons, another wave shakes the room.

Morton

Captain, outer doors are not functioning.

Crane

Over ride the sequence. Go to manual.

Morton

I’ve tried sir. Still non-responsive.

Morton concentrates on his console trying different button combinations and getting the same annoying beep with each attempt. Nelson studies his monitor.

Nelson

It’s been re-routed at the torpedo room.

Morton

Or it’s a computer glitch.

Crane presses a button on his console.

Crane

Torpedo room.

The speakers remain silent. Another wave shuffles the crew.

Crane

Torpedo room, this is Crane. Respond.

Kowalski

Sir, level three compressive wave. Brace for immediate impact.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

A big wave hits, this time lifting the Seaview several feet off the crest. The sub struggles against the force until it manages to land again on the pyramid’s flat top.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton looks up from his monitor.

Morton

Captain, Tracker reports two crewmen in the torpedo room. Neither is moving.

Crane presses a button.

Crane

Doctor Hiller, meet me in the torpedo room. We may have injured.

The speakers again remain silent as another wave rocks the sub.

Crane

Doctor Hiller? Do you read? This is Crane.

No response. Morton works his console.

Morton

Captain, Doctor Hiller is already in the torpedo room.

Crane and Morton exchange quick stares.

Crane

I’m going.

The Captain springs from his chair. Another wave hits. Nelson heads for Kowalski’s console.

Nelson

I’ll try to override the firing controls.

Crane

Have the Chief meet me there and Chip, don’t wait, fire those torpedoes as soon as you have the green light. Then get us the hell out of here.

Morton

Understood.

Int. Seaview – Corridor

Crane is tossed against the walls as the sub shakes. He rounds the corner to see an open door to the torpedo room.

Int. Seaview – Torpedo Room

Crane enters and notices two crewmen laying motionless on the floor. He checks their pulse. The sub rocks again.

He looks up to see Hiller, her back toward him, standing in a glass enclosure housing the torpedo control panel. He steps toward her.

Crane

Lizzie, what are you doing in there? These men are injured. They need help.

Behind Crane, the door to the torpedo room slams shut. He spins around but sees no one, then steps over to a door in the glass enclosure.

Crane

Lizzie, we’ve got to fire those torpedoes. Open the door.

Hiller is frantically pressing buttons. Crane types into a keypad. A red light flashes. The door remains closed. Another wave rocks the sub.

Crane pounds on the door. Hiller looks over her shoulder. Her eyes widen. A hand from behind grabs Crane and twirls him around.

Michael hits Crane in the face. He stumbles back against the glass and slides to the floor. Hiller returns to her frantic button pushing.

Michael pulls a gun, but Crane kicks his feet out from under him, knocking the Captain’s assailant to the deck. The gun slides from his hand to the glass door.

Michael scrambles for the gun. Crane tackles him sending both men tumbling across the room. They get to their feet and start boxing, each landing solid punches.

Nelson’s voice echoes through the room.

Nelson

Captain Crane, can you respond? Lee, if you can hear me we’ve got less than a minute to fire those torpedoes. What happening down there?

Nelson’s voice begins breaking up amid another round of shaking. Both men stumble away from each other. Michael falls by the glass door and grabs the gun.

Crane jumps to his feet and makes a run toward Michael who sits up and points the gun at Crane. The Captain slides to a stop.

Michael

That’s far enough, Captain.

Crane raises his palms. Michael eases himself to his feet, constantly keeping the gun and his eyes on Crane.

Michael

You’re not firing those torpedoes.

Crane

If we don’t, this planet will be destroyed. Is that what you want?

Michael

I’m trying to SAVE the planet. Firing those torpedoes is what will destroy it. Doctor Pierre is right. The Earth knows how to heal itself.

Over Michaels shoulder, Crane notices Hiller moving toward the glass door.

Crane

Listen to me. Within the last hour the U.N. has unanimously approved the Admiral’s plan. Even Doctor Pierre himself now supports it.

Michael

That’s a lie! Doctor Pierre is magnificent scientist! He could never be wrong about something as important…

The door opens. Michael wheels around. Hiller whacks him with a fire extinguisher. He hits the deck, out cold.

Hiller

Hurry Lee. I don’t know how to fire the torpedoes.

Crane springs through the glass door and straight for the console.

Crane

What were you doing in here, Lizzie?

He quickly pushes buttons.

Hiller

Trying to stop Michael.

The sub rocks. The couple grab what they can to regain their footing. Nelson’s voice crackles through the speakers. Crane again concentrates on the console.

Nelson

Captain Crane we MUST fire those torpedoes…

He presses buttons. A green light flashes. Another wave hits. Hiller stumbles. Crane catches her. They gaze into each others eyes as he gently helps her to her feet.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The sub shakes. The crew hangs on. Morton’s undivided attention is on his console. His eyes widen, his voice raises.

Morton

Firing control restored. Outer doors opening. Torpedoes away in three, two, one.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

Two torpedoes speed away from beneath the Seaview’s glass nose.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

Mister Keno, activate escape course.

Keno

Aye, sir.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

The maneuvering thrusters raise the Seaview off the crest. In one fluid motion the nose lifts, spins on its tail and the sub speeds off in the opposite direction.

The torpedoes rocket for their target, encountering shock waves trying to knock them off course. But they regain their heading, tracking perfectly alongside the rock path.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Richter

Slipstream initiated.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

The Slipstream’s orange glow engulfs the Seaview’s hull. Behind it, the torpedoes barrel through the spewing lava, hit the mountain cliff and burrow in.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Richter

Plasma Jets igniting.

Ext. Ocean – Pyramid Site

The Seaview speeds away – the torpedoes detonate.

The point of the V-shaped mountain cliff dissolves, sending an avalanche of debris crashing into the gorge and creating a giant shock wave that gives chase to the Seaview.

The initial explosion caused a chain reaction along the opposing ridges of mountain’s V-shape. Like dominoes falling, debris cascades into the raging moat of lava.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

How are we doing Kowalski?

Kowalski

Initial compression wave is gaining on us. Secondary waves are forming.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview sprints through the ocean, its hull glowing bright orange. The wave follows, obliterating the pyramid in its pursuit.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

Helm, increase speed. Push her as hard as you can, Richter.

With an “Aye, sir” Richter presses buttons. The lights dim, the normal background hum of the Control Room increases.

Ext. Ocean

The wave is now nipping at the Seaview’s stern. Chunks of glowing lava mixed with pieces of the pyramid strike the hull.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The control room rumbles. Morton swings toward Kowalski.

Morton

Shields, mister Kowalski.

Kowalski presses buttons.

Richter

Reactor at one hundred fifty percent, sir.

Kowalski

Shields at maximum.

Ext. Ocean

The hull sparks silver, repelling the debris chasing it. The bright orange glow now pulsates and slowly increases the distance between the Seaview and the tailgating wave.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The pounding subsides. Morton stands in front of the command chair.

Kowalski

We’re pulling away from the compressive edge at seventy two MPH, and slowly raising to the surface.

Richter

Sir, reactor temperature is climbing.

Morton

Maintain speed, helm. Increase angle on the planes five degrees.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview, now pulsating white-orange, zooms through the sea, heading for the surface with the wave now lagging behind. The debris in the leading edge has thinned.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Kowalski

The primary wave is beginning to dissipate. We’re above the compressive edge of all secondary waves.

Richter

Sir, reactor temperature is approaching tolerance.

Morton

Reduce speed. Set reactor to one hundred percent, mister Richter.

Keno

Surface ahead.

Morton

Mister Kowalski?

Kowalski

We are out of the danger zone, sir.

Morton

Take us out of Slipstream. Engage prop sequence.

Ext. Ocean

The white-orange glow fades. The Seaview slows as the props re-appear and begin churning. The bright sunlight illuminates above as the sub skims just below the surface.

Ext. Ocean – Surface

The conning tower is the first to break through, as the Seaview raises into calm waters. A small surface wave breaks the sub’s wake and scoots around the hull.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Kowalski

What’s left of the initial shock wave just passed us, sir.

Morton

All stop.

The crew gaze through the glass nose at the remains of the wave which is gently rolling toward the horizon.

Kowalski

We finally outran one sir.

Morton

Too bad the Captain wasn’t here to see it.

Nelson, having been all this time intensely studying his console, suddenly jumps up.

Nelson

My God it’s working!

He presses buttons on his console. The overhead monitors begin displaying graphics and text. Morton and Kowalski step over and raise their heads for a look.

Nelson exuberantly addresses the crew.

Nelson

Congratulations all. The Cocas plate is resealing.

The control room explodes with applause and jubilation. Nelson quickly scans around the room, then leans over to Morton.

Nelson

Have we heard from the Captain?

Morton presses a button.

Morton

Torpedo room. Captain Crane, please respond.

Int. Seaview – Corridor – Torpedo Room Door

Sharkey has his hand inside an opened panel. Wires spill from around his wrist. Men with guns are poised at the door.

He clenches his jaw and gazes over his shoulders at the men.

Sharkey

Here we go.

Sharkey twist his body as if reaching for something. The door opens. The men dash in. He pulls his hand from the panel, blowing and shaking it as he follows them in.

Int. Seaview – Torpedo Room

A couple of men are tending to the injured crewmen, now conscious and sitting up. The rest are taking Michael into custody. Sharkey steps in and looks around the room.

He narrows his eyes gazing at the open door on the glass enclosure. Cautiously, he walks to it. Nelsons voice blares through the speakers.

Nelson

Captain Crane, can you respond?

Sharkey peers through the glass. Crane and Hiller are sitting on the floor, kissing. He steps back and looks away.

Sharkey

Tracker on. Control room. Admiral, this is Sharkey in the torpedo room. The Captain’s…uh…being treated by Doctor Hiller right now.

Nelson

Is he injured?

Sharkey timidly peeks again through the glass. They’re still kissing.

Sharkey

I’ll have to get back with you on that one, sir.

Listening from the control room, Nelson and Morton share a puzzled glance.

Int. Seaview – Sick Bay

Crane sits on the edge of a diagnostic bed. Hiller stands over him administering first aid.

Crane

You should have said something, Lizzie.

Hiller

I know, Lee. But after what you said about the crew being suspicious of each other, well, that’s what I thought I was doing when I suspected Michael.

She applies a cotton swab to a cut on his forehead. He flinches.

Crane

Well, this is the one time I’m glad you didn’t listen to me. What changed your mind?

Hiller

Right before we were supposed to fire the torpedoes I decided to checked the needles and found traces of hydrazine. He’d used one of them then put it back into stores.

Crane

You should have called security right then and there. Why did you follow him to the torpedo room?

Hiller

I thought I could talk him out of it, but believe me, he wasn’t listening. By the time I got there, he’d already clobbered the crewmen and was busy doing something with the with one of the panels across the room.

Crane

Re-routing the firing controls.

Hiller

He threatened to shoot me if I tried to stop him. I saw the control booth and managed to make it in there before he did. But, about the best I could do was to lock him out. That’s when you showed up.

She applies a bandage.

Hiller

What I still don’t understand is why the fuel cells? He sabotaged them before he became convinced that you and the Admiral were about to bring civilization to an end.

Crane

Industrial espionage. A rival company for the Naval contract paid him a tidy sum of money to make sure the Seaview failed the trials.

Hiller

How do you know?

Crane

He tried to bribe his way out of the brig with the name of the company that paid him.

Nelson strolls in looking very relieved.

Nelson

Congratulations Captain, it worked. The Cocas plate has been reset with a new seal around it’s edges. Your ancient friends were right after all.

Crane returns the smile.

Crane

They’re not really considered, ‘ancient,’ sir.

Nelson

Is he all right Doctor?

Hiller finishes up her first aid.

Hiller

A fractured rib, a few cuts and bruises.

She smiles at Crane.

Hiller

If he takes it easy and listens to his Doctor’s advice, I’m sure he’ll live.

She hands Crane his shirt. He puts it on.

Nelson

What happened in the torpedo room?

Crane

I found our saboteur trying to short circuit the firing control.

Nelson

Who was it?

Hiller

My assistant. I’m really sorry Admiral, I had no idea…

Nelson

It’s alright Doctor, he wiggled past our background check as well. Why was he trying to stop us?

Crane

Let’s just say he wasn’t convinced of your plan, Admiral.

Crane straightens. A small hint surprise crosses his face.

Crane

You’ll have a full report as soon as I can prepare it, sir.

He stumbles slightly as he steps off the bed. Hiller helps him regain his footing.

Hiller

You need rest, Captain.

Nelson

I agree. That report can wait.

Crane looks at Nelson then Hiller.

Crane

Seems like that’s what everyone been telling me for the last three days.

Morton’s voice pipes in through the cabin’s speakers.

Morton

Captain, repair crews report minimal damage. We can get underway at any time, sir.

Crane

Very well, Chip. Take us…

Crane looks at Nelson and smiles.

Crane

Take us wherever the Admiral wants to go. I’ll be in my quarters.

Nelson glances up with a smile.

Nelson

Engage the Slipstream, XO. Best speed to San Francisco. Take us home.

Ext. Pacific Ocean – Day

The Seaview glides gracefully through a calm sea toward a new California shoreline. The sun is setting, showering the hull in its own burnt-orange glow.

Int. Seaview – Control Room – Glass Nose

Crane, his injuries healing, looks out the large glass panes at the carnage on shore. What was the San Joaquin Valley is now an inland sea. Debris litter its shores.

Nelson steps up and shares Crane’s view.

Nelson

Remarkable.

Crane

The new California? Or the fact there still is a California?

Nelson

Both.

Nelson takes a seat.

Nelson

What did you say the Mayans considered this year to be the start of?

Crane

A new cycle of the sun. What they call the long count.

Nelson

Then I suppose we should be celebrating a happy new year, or should I say happy new ‘YEARS.’

Crane grins.

Crane

I hope we make it through another cycle.

Nelson

I have high hopes for humanity, Lee. As long as we learn from our past and have faith in our future, I’m sure we’ll make it.

He pats Crane on the back in a fatherly fashion.

Nelson

In the meantime there’s certainly a lot of rebuilding to do. And I’m sure the Seaview will be a big part of it.

Ext. Pacific Ocean – Day

Backing out through the glass nose, a climbing birds eye view reveals several Navy ships escorting the Seaview toward the new coastline.

Marine helicopters hover overhead airlifting the stranded to safety and helping to remove the tons of debris from the water soaked land.

Hundreds of people speckle the shore. Some are hugging, some are crying, some sift through rubble in solitude. But most are helping one another.

The End

****************************************************************************

I sincerely hope you enjoyed this adventure. Keep watching for my next Scf-Fi thriller – “Galaxy One.”

C-Ya in the movies!

Stan

I hope you enjoyed Act 5 !!!

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea – Act 6

to view a pdf version with the proper script formatting

Thanks For Reading !!!

****************************************************************************

Act 6

Int. Seaview – Cranes Quarters

Crane studies the rotating holographic image of the pyramid floating above his desk. He checks his monitor, gazing at the enlarged images of its markings.

The door chimes. The Captain offers a “come in” while continuing to study the monitor. Doctor Hiller opens the door.

Hiller

Lee?

Crane glances over his shoulder.

Crane

Lizzie? Please, come in.

Hiller slowly strolls in. Crane returns to his examination.

Hiller

Why don’t you come up for air? You’ve been in here for hours.

Crane

Not yet, I’ve still have a few things to check out before the Admiral gets back. Here, take a look at this.

She glances at Crane’s profile a moment before turning her attention to the monitor.

Crane

The pyramid is definitely Mayan, the placement of the stones, the flat top. But there are no steps.

Hiller

Meaning?

Crane

It wasn’t sacrificial or meant to be climbed. And those markings, I’m sure those are the exact same markings I saw on a Mayan codex tablet discovered a few years ago.

Hiller

How did it get there? The Mayans couldn’t have built it at the bottom of the ocean.

Crane

Maybe they didn’t. They could have built it on land, somehow, floated it out to sea and sunk it.

Hiller

So do you think this pyramid has something to do with the earth cracking up?

Crane

I think it was a warning about the earth ‘cracking up.’ I think it’s more than coincidental that all we had to do was follow that rock path and it lead us straight to it, as though it were meant to.

Hiller steps away from the monitor seemingly unimpressed and lost in thought. She gazes blankly around the room while Crane continues his examination.

Hiller

Lee, Have you heard what happened at the U.N.?

Crane’s face remains glued to his monitor. His response if half-hearted.

Crane

No.

Hiller

Well, the U.N. took a vote to oppose the Admiral’s plan.

Crane snaps his head toward Hiller.

Crane

What?

His collar begins flashing. Sparks’ southern accent speaks from the other.

Sparks

Captain Crane, this is Sparks sir. There is a priority one communications from a United States Ambassador, a one mister Henry Gardell.

Crane

Route it to my console mister Sparks.

Sparks

Aye, sir.

Crane’s collar light extinguishes.

Crane

That’s probably what this call is about.

Hiller heads for the door. Before leaving, she locks eyes with Crane.

Hiller

Lee, remember, the Admiral is not always right.

Crane watches Hiller leave before pushing a button on his desk.

Crane

Okay Sparks, go.

Sparks

Transferring sir.

Crane’s video monitor fades in on HENRY GARDELL, a well groomed red-haired man in his 30’s.

Crane

This is Captain Crane.

Gardell

Captain, we’ve got a problem.

Crane

Mister Ambassador, the Seaview is standing by.

Gardell

I’m referring to Admiral Nelson and the incident he just caused at the U.N.

Crane

Incident?

Gardell

For starters, he proposed a plan that more than half of the scientific council voted against. Then he thumbed his nose at most of the member nations and left in that, that flying contraption of his. We’re worried he’s going to try and take matters into his own hands without U.N. approval. We can’t allow that to happen. Now can we Captain?

Crane

‘We,’ sir?

Gardell

Please Captain, don’t be coy. You and I have to work together…

Crane

Begging your pardon sir, it’s my understanding that this submarine’s mission is under the jurisdiction of the President. So why am I not speaking with her?

Gardell

Apparently, she and the Vice President hasn’t been heard from since they went to the west coast to inspect the damage. A decision that I personally advised against.

Gardell takes a breath and forces a smile. He speaks mildly.

Gardell

Captain. We’re in a delicate situation right now. The U.N. believes the United States let loose a madman that’s about to destroy this planet.

Crane

That’s preposterous. Admiral Nelson is brilliant. I’m sure he’s got a good reason for whatever he did.

Gardell

Captain, we can’t allow one man to decide the fate of the world. The U.N. believes…

Crane

Quite frankly mister Gardell, I don’t give a damn what the U.N. believes. Right now, I will not alter this mission until instructed by either the Admiral or the President of the United States. Is that clear?

Gardell

Captain, you can’t let that maniac…

Crane

Sir, if you will excuse me, I have a schedule to keep.

Gardell

Captain you MUST listen…

Crane

Good day Ambassador.

Crane switches off the monitor. He nods his head toward his collar.

Crane

Tracker on. Mister Morton.

Morton

Morton here, Captain.

Crane

Chip, have we heard from the Admiral?

Morton

No sir. But we’re due to rendezvous with the Flying Sub in twenty two minutes. Should I contact him, sir?

Crane

No, it can wait until he gets here.

The Captain ponders a moment.

Crane

But have Sparks put in a call to the White House. Use the Admiral’s priority channel. Contact the Secretary of State.

Morton

Aye, sir.

Ext. Pacific Ocean – Day

The Seaview surfaces to the Flying Sub whizzing by overhead. It circles ahead of the Seaview, takes a nose dive and plunges into the sea.

Beneath the waves, the hangar doors open and the Flying Sub nestles itself away.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane and Morton wait at the access door. A light flashes. Nelson and Sharkey step out.

Crane

Welcome back Admiral, Chief.

Nelson

Thank you, Captain. We must get underway immediately.

Nelson walks straight to the navigator and bends down. He puts his hands on the console, then stops and looks at Crane.

Nelson

With your permission, Captain?

Crane makes eye contact with Morton for a moment before gazing back at Nelson.

Crane

Certainly, sir.

Nelson pushes buttons.

Nelson

I’m glad I remembered this. Please bring us to this course, mister Keno.

Keno

Aye, sir.

Crane

Depth and speed Admiral?

Nelson

Our voyage takes us to the bottom of the sea, Captain. Make it a straight line and as fast as she can go.

Crane

Aye, sir.

The Captain gives a quick glance to Morton, who walks over to his station. He presses a button, the klaxon sounds.

Morton

Diving stations, diving stations. Stand by for Slipstream propulsion.

Crane steps up to the Admiral and lowers his voice.

Crane

Admiral, I need to have a word with you right away, sir.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview slips beneath the waves. The orange glow forms around hull and the sub speeds away.

Int. Seaview – Nelson’s Quarters

Nelson, standing behind his desk, looks at Crane with a shocked expression.

Nelson

My God Lee. How can the President of the United States be missing?

Crane

Apparently she and the vice president…

Nelson

The vice president too?

Crane

Sir, both were on Marine One inspecting the damage when it went down somewhere in a Mexican jungle. A search has been underway, but nothing has turned up yet. It’s possible they could be stranded like millions of others anywhere along the coast of Mexico or even Central America.

Nelson

Who’s in charge, the Secretary of the Senate?

Crane

The Secretary of State also claims that right. It’s such a mess, I don’t think anyone really knows who’s in charge.

Nelson

Sounds familiar.

Crane

But I do know the U.N. thinks you’re crazy and may try to stop you.

Nelson

Lee, no one but myself has had the opportunity to take the measurements I have. Thanks to you and the Seaview.

Crane pulls up a chair and leans in. He looks at Nelson with pleading eyes.

Crane

Admiral, what about the rest of those scientist? Are they all wrong?

Nelson pounds his hand on his desk.

Nelson

Yes they are! My God man, we were there. We gathered specific information that they’re only guessing at. Pierre’s flow rate alone is off by ten percent.

The Admiral leans back in his chair and cools down.

Nelson

They’re just a bunch of elitist fools.

Crane

Are you sure you’re right Admiral? We don’t get a second chance at this.

Nelson locks eyes with Crane.

Nelson

Captain, if I believed NOT firing those torpedoes would bring my beloved wife back from the grave, I would still fire them. Because I know she wouldn’t have long to live. That’s how sure I’m sure.

Crane leans back in his chair and relaxes.

Crane

What about presidential authority?

Nelson

As far as I’m concerned, we already have that permission until the President or her legal successor takes it away.

Crane

I agree.

Nelson looks out his portal. The concern on his face reflects off the orange glow of the Slipstream.

Nelson

Captain, we must continue on course. And I may have to give an order that some might not want to follow.

Nelson faces Crane.

Nelson

I need to know where you stand, Lee.

Crane

I’m with you, Admiral. Until you REALLY go crazy.

Nelson grins and stands. Crane follows. The Admiral steps from around his desk and pats the Captain on the shoulder.

Nelson

Thank you Lee, I needed to hear that.

Nelson begins escorting Crane toward the door.

Crane

Admiral, there is something else we need to discuss before we get to our destination. It’s something I need to show you.

Int. Seaview – Situation Room

Nelson and Crane study the holographic images of the rock road and the pyramid floating above the situation table.

Nelson

Captain, are you trying to tell me this pyramid, or whatever it is, has something to do with our volcanoes?

Crane

I was hoping you could help with that, sir. But I do find it more than coincidental that we ran across a nine hundred year old structure at the bottom of the ocean, with a path leading directly to the volcanoes.

Crane presses buttons. The hieroglyphics chiseled in the side of the pyramid appear.

Crane

And then there are these hieroglyphs. I know I’ve seen them before, I just haven’t been able to find where.

Cranes collar flashes.

Richter

Captain, objective ahead, sir.

Crane

Take us out of Slipstream, helm.

Ext. Ocean

The orange glow fades from the Seaview’s hull. The props appear and the sub continues on her way.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane and Nelson enter the control room.

Richter

We’ll reach the objective in twelve minutes Captain.

Crane

Very good. Be ready to deploy the beacons as soon as we…

Kowalski

Contact ahead. Bearing two seven two degrees. It’s another sub, sir.

Nelson and Crane take their positions. Morton presses buttons and studies the new information on his monitor.

Morton

It’s Russian, Captain. Typhoon class. On an intercept course. Attack posture.

Nelson

I thought we made friends with the Russians?

Crane

Maybe the French made better friends.

Kowalski

Sir, she’s flooding her torpedo tubes.

Crane

Evasive maneuvers. Battle stations. Bring Plasma weapons on line.

Morton throws the switch to sound the klaxon. Throughout the sub the crew scrambles as Morton’s voice echoes in the background.

Morton

Battle stations, battle stations. All hands to general quarters.

Crane

Why didn’t we detect her earlier mister Kowalski?

Kowalski

I don’t know sir. She just appeared after we dropped out of the Slipstream.

Nelson

It’s possible the sensors were blinded by the Slipstream field.

Keno

She’s firing sir. Two fish away.

Crane

Counter measures!

Ext. Ocean

The rear of the sub eject two glowing balls of energy. One attaches itself to the nose of a torpedo making it spin off course. The other torpedo sidesteps its energy ball.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Keno

One countermeasure ineffective Captain. Torpedo still closing fast.

Crane

Get a lock on it with the Plasma Laser.

Nelson

Lee, it’s too close…

Crane makes a quick glance at Nelson.

Crane

There’s no time, sir. Take it out mister Keno. Now!

Keno presses a button. Two narrow red beams shoot from the Seaview. It hits the torpedo, which explodes, sending a shock wave hurtling toward the sub.

Morton

Concussive wave. Brace for impact.

The shock wave broadsides the Seaview, slamming it against the side of a cliff. The control room shakes, as lights dim and sparks fly from Kowalski’s console.

Keno

Sir, all weapons off line.

Morton

Re-route to backup.

Keno

By passing. Sir, weapons still unresponsive. Computer core malfunction.

Crane

Switch to manual control.

Keno

Re-routing.

Kowalski

Sir, she’s flooding her tubes again.

Crane

Keno, get us out of here. Mister Morton, take over re-routing of the firing controls.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview pulls away from the cliff only to find she’s trapped inside a U-shaped canyon, with the Russian sub closing in on the only way out.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane

Mister Morton, how about those weapons?

Morton

I’m trying sir…just…too many systems damaged.

Kowalski

She’s locking a firing solution.

Nelson

We’re sitting ducks.

Kowalski

Captain. New contact, bearing one four four degrees. It’s a U.S. attack sub. The Dallas, sir.

Ext. Ocean

The Dallas comes up from behind the Russian sub, now poised at the canyon entrance.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Sparks’ voice echoes through the room’s speakers.

Sparks

Captain Crane, the Captain of the U.S.S. Dallas is hailing us, sir.

Crane gives Nelson a quick glance.

Nelson

Are they here to help us or them?

Crane

Let’s find out. Put him through mister Sparks.

A baritone male voice is heard through the speakers.

Davenport

Seaview, this is Captain Richard Davenport of the U.S.S. Dallas. Do you require assistance?

Crane

Dallas, this is Captain Lee Crane. It would be nice if you could stop that Russian sub from blowing us to bits.

Davenport

Already done Captain. I don’t think they’ll bother you anymore.

Morton studies his monitor. He turns to Crane.

Morton

The Russian sub is moving off, sir.

Davenport

Is Admiral Nelson aboard?

Nelson sits up.

Nelson

Nelson here.

Davenport

The President sends her regards and apology for what happened in New York.

Nelson

How is the President?

Davenport

Shaken up a little but back in control. Admiral, she’s approved your plan and has mobilized the Navy to form a blockade in case anyone else tries to stop you.

Nelson

Then I assume the majority of the U.N. still favors Pierre’s plan.

Davenport

On the contrary. Pierre’s plan is loosing steam fast. Many have switched sides after reexamining his data and yours. I understand you made a quick exit and left your laptop computer. Hope you don’t mind the intrusion.

Nelson

Not at all, Captain.

Davenport

Leaving it there gave the scientist time to study the plans side by side. But France, Germany and the Russian states are still holding out. They may try to stop you again. Our orders are to stick around and provide protection until the blockade firms up.

Nelson

That’s good news Captain. I’ll send my compliments to the President personally when all this is done. But for now we have a job to finish.

Davenport

I understand. Don’t worry, we’ll be watching your back. Good luck Admiral.

Ext. Ocean

The Dallas and the Seaview move off in different directions.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Nelson

Mister Morton, how long will it take to get the target beacons in place?

Morton

Approximately thirty minutes, sir.

Nelson

Gentlemen, I’ll be in my quarters double checking my figures. I want to know the minute they’re done.

Morton

Aye, sir.

Nelson disappears up the spiral staircase. Crane jerks his head slightly as if hit by an idea.

Crane

Chip, see to the deployment. I’ve just thought of something I want to double check as well.

****!! ONLY 1 ACT LEFT!****

****DON’T MISS THE FINAL INSTALLMENT !!****

I hope you enjoyed Act 4 !!!

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea – Act 5

to see the pdf version with the proper script formatting

Thanks For Reading !!!

****************************************************************************

ACT 5

Ext. New York Harbor – Day

The Flying Sub glides only inches above the calm sea as it approaches the harbor. The craft lowers its hull and jets of water spray as it makes contact with the surface.

The sub slows to “boat speed” as it passes a buoy marked NO WAKE. Crews working on the deck of nearby ships stop what they’re doing and stare as the Flying Sub cruises by.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Sharkey gazes out the windows.

Sharkey

Admiral, has anyone ever seen this craft before? I mean, outside of the Seaview’s crew, that is.

Nelson

Well, come to think of it Chief, I believe very few have.

Sharkey

Looks that way.

Ext. New York Harbor – Day

Two Patrol boats approach the Flying Sub from different sides and begin escorting it toward the docks.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Through the speakers, a gruff voice announces his presence.

Harbor Master

FS One, this is New York Harbor Patrol. Please follow the escorts to Dock Fourteen. The President has a car waiting.

Sharkey

Roger, Harbor Patrol.

Int. Seaview – Crew’s Quarters

Sailors gather around a video monitor watching a newscast. Some sit on the edge of their bunk with pen and paper while others type into their laptop computers ignoring the news.

Newscaster

We’ve just received word that Admiral Harriman Nelson is in the building and is walking through the lower hallway. Excitement has been at a fevered pitch since last night’s report from the submarine Seaview that the Admiral had conceived a plan to reset the dislodged tectonic plate and extinguish the wall of fire brewing beneath the sea. Several theories are already under consideration by the UN…

Int. Seaview – Sick Bay

Hiller, Michael and patients watch the same newscast from their wall mounted video monitor.

Newscaster

…in fact, yesterday, Doctor Jacques Pierre, the emanate physicist of Paris, presented his own plan. In essence, it says ‘hands off, it will fix itself.’

Hiller steps closer to the monitor, watching intensely.

Newscaster

Unofficial sources tell us Doctor Pierre’s argument has swayed the scientific body enough to give his plan their stamp of approval. However, in view of Admiral Nelson’s tremendous scientific achievements, we’re told that the international scientific committee will make no decisions until Nelson’s plan is evaluated.

Int. United Nations Building – Meeting Chamber

The room is a mixture of chaos and calm. Some are sitting, quietly listening to a member giving an outspoken and quite animated speech in German. Others are milling and talking.

Suddenly, a lady jumps to he feet and begins yelling at the speaker, who yells back. An argument ensues as more members join in. The Chairman pounds his gavel.

Chairman

Order! I will have order!

Military policemen enter the room, calming and re-seating the offenders.

Chairman

The chair will stand for no more such outburst!

The room returns to a low murmur as the German speaker continues uninterrupted. Two military policeman escort Admiral Nelson and Chief Sharkey to their seats.

Nelson pulls up his chair and removes his hat. He opens his laptop and gazes at the crowd. The room quiets, except for the German, who now notices no one is listening to him.

The entire crowd’s attention is now quietly on Nelson. The German abruptly stops speaking and sits down. The Chairman pounds his gavel.

Chairman

We thank the German delegate for his remarks and will take them under advisement. We acknowledge the arrival of the distinguished scientist from the United States, Admiral Harriman Nelson. The Chair will now turn the floor over to Admiral Nelson.

Nelson presses a few buttons on his laptop, stands and gazes around the room.

Nelson

Mister Chairman, distinguished scientist, ladies and gentlemen. This planet is ripping itself apart from the inside out. As I speak, an underwater volcano is releasing a lava flow that will eventually destroy all life on earth. If this flow isn’t stopped, our planet has a life expectancy of about three weeks.

The room becomes excited again. The Chairman pounds his gavel.

Chairman

Order! Order!

The Admiral waits until the room quiets.

Nelson

Therefore, if we are to avoid our destruction we must act at once.

Nelson sits and types on his laptop. Television monitors stationed in front of each of the delegates, begin displaying information in their respective languages.

Nelson

In order to stop the lava flow, we must reseal the Cocas tectonic plate. And, we have less than three days to do it.

Doctor Jacques Pierre, sitting across from Nelson leans forward. His French tone is sarcastic.

Pierre

And just how do you propose to do that Admiral?

Nelson

By splitting the Cocas plate, Doctor. The western edge of this plate has been lifted more than seven miles, allowing the magma cauldron below to spew up through the cracks. By fracturing it in the middle, the plate will break off and fall back into place, sealing the ruptures.

Pierre

Again I ask Admiral, just how do you perform this act of GOD?

Nelson

By the firing two nuclear torpedoes from the submarine Seaview.

Int. Seaview – Sick Bay

Hiller looks startled by Nelson’s announcement. She leans forward and gawks at the monitor as the newscast continues.

Nelson

These torpedoes, delivered simultaneously at precise locations will have enough explosive force to do the job.

Int. United Nations Building – Meeting Chamber

Nelson turns his gaze to the Chairman.

Nelson

To simplify, take a one foot long wooden ruler. Bore a couple of large holes around the six inch mark and snap, the ruler breaks in two. Blast a couple of holes in the center of the Cocas plate and…

Doctor Pierre stands and claps his hands together loudly.

Pierre

Snap! No world!

A man in the crowd stands and shouts in French. The room turns chaotic again. Pierre slams his fist against his table.

Pierre

Insanity! It’s absolute insanity. This lunatic scheme will destroy us all.

Nelson

Doctor, may I direct your attention to your video monitor. Our calculations clearly show…

Pierre

I have seen all I need to see.

Pierre addresses the room.

Pierre

I tell you all, Nelson’s plan is suicidal insanity. It will kill us all!

He returns his angry gaze to the Admiral.

Pierre

I have calculations too, Admiral. And they show the lava flow from the rupture will seal itself in four days. By fracturing the plate you will only open up a bigger gorge that will never close.

Nelson

Alright Doctor, what if the flow doesn’t seal itself?

Pierre

You have your plan Admiral, and I have mine. Time will judge which one is right.

Nelson

My plan can’t wait four days. If the rupture isn’t sealed within seventy two hours, it never will. We have to take action now.

Pierre

Then this scientific body must decide which one of us is right.

Nelson grabs his hat and mutters with an indignant voice.

Nelson

I’m not going to sit here and watch the world burn to a crisp.

Pierre continues speaking to the crowd. Nelson leans over to Sharkey as he closes his laptop.

Nelson

Let’s go Chief.

Nelson puts on his hat and stands. Sharkey steps over to the military policemen. Pierre waves his arms to the crowd.

Pierre

I demand the Admiral’s plan be referred before a committee.

The crowd murmurs. The chairman slams his gavel.

Nelson

There’s no time.

Pierre

Then I call for a vote. All those in favor of the Admiral’s scheme.

A small portion of the crowd cheers.

Pierre

All those opposed.

A large cheer comes from the crowd. Pierre points to Nelson.

Pierre

There’s you answer, Admiral.

Nelson leans toward Pierre and points at him with his index finger. It’s obvious he’s mad.

Nelson

Not mine, yours! My answer comes only from the President of the United States.

The room turns chaotic with people talking and shouting over one another. The chairman pounds his gavel.

Nelson leans back, nods at Sharkey and steps away from the table, leaving his laptop behind. The two head for the escorts waiting by the exit.

Int. Seaview – Sick Bay

Hiller looks very disturbed as she slowly strolls to the monitor and turns off the newscast.

Ext. New York Harbor – Dock Fourteen – Day

A black SUV pulls up. The driver and passenger, men dressed in dark suits wearing earphones and dark sunglasses, get out. They open the back doors.

Nelson and Sharkey step out and immediately start briskly walking toward the end of the long dock. There, the Flying Sub is moored with a military policeman standing guard.

The dark suited men casually watch Nelson and Sharkey when suddenly, the driver cups his hand over his ear. His expression quickly changes. He motions to his partner.

The men pull their weapons. The driver yells.

Driver

Admiral Nelson, stop!

Without looking back Nelson and Sharkey start running down the dock toward the Flying Sub. The dark suited men chase after them.

Driver

Admiral Nelson, you must stop, sir!

The military policeman realizes what’s happening and goes for his gun. Before he draws Sharkey sprints ahead, pushes him off the dock while Nelson removes the mooring ropes.

Sharkey trots up the gangplank and opens the hatch. Nelson joins him and both men disappear into the Flying Sub amid the ricocheting of bullets off its hull.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Nelson and Sharkey climb down the ladder leading to the flight deck.

Sharkey

Would you like for me to take the wheel again, sir?

Nelson

Please, Chief.

They assume their positions and strap in. With several button pushes the Flying Sub powers up.

Video monitors flicker to life, one revealing the suited men on top of the craft trying to open the hatch.

Nelson

Warn them off Chief.

Sharkey flips a switch.

Sharkey

Attention. Clear the deck. This craft is launching.

Nelson and Sharkey watch as the men ignore the warning, firing their guns in a futile attempt to open the hatch.

Nelson

Get us out of here Chief.

Sharkey

Aye, sir.

Ext. New York Harbor – Dock Fourteen – Day

A blue glow forms at the exhaust. The Flying Sub quickly pulls away from the dock, knocking the dark suited men into the water.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

On his monitor, Nelson can see all three men bobbing in the wake.

Nelson

Good. At least they can swim.

The Harbor Master’s voice booms through the speakers.

Harbor Master

FS One, this is Harbor Patrol. You are ordered to return to the dock immediately. Your vehicle is not cleared for takeoff.

Nelson flips a switch.

Nelson

Harbor Master, I have authorization from the President of the United States. Please clear the Harbor for our immediate departure.

Sharkey cocks his head.

Sharkey

That ought to work, sir.

Nelson

Let’s hope so.

Through the windshield the men watch as two patrol boats pull into their path. They begin approaching at breakneck speeds, their guns locked on the Flying Sub.

Sharkey

Actually…I…don’t think it worked, sir.

Harbor Master

FS One. We have been instructed by the United Nation Security Council to detain your departure. Under regulations, we must comply. Please, return to the dock, or we will have to use deadly force.

Ext. New York Harbor – Day

One of the patrol boats fire shots in the water just in front of the Flying Sub as the three vessels lock a course for a imminent, head-on collision.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Nelson

I’ve had enough Chief. Forget the regulations, let’s get airborne.

Sharkey

Aye, sir.

Sharkey pulls back on the joysticks.

Ext. New York Harbor – Day

Just as an impact was certain, the Flying Sub noses up and rockets away at fantastic speeds. It quickly disappears into the thick, white clouds.

Ext. Sky – Day

The Flying Sub pops through a blanket of clouds and races toward the horizon.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Sharkey presses buttons and glances at his console.

Sharkey

Leveled off at forty thousand, Admiral.

Nelson

Very good, Chief. Best speed to the Seaview.

Sharkey

Aye sir.

Sharkey reaches toward his console, but stops short. He gazes at Nelson.

Sharkey

Admiral?

Nelson

Yes, Chief?

Sharkey

I think you left your laptop behind.

Ext. Pyramid Site – Pacific Ocean

Doors open in the Seaview’s belly and a small sleek craft with a clear bubble top emerges. In the cockpit, Captain Crane engages the single prop. The Mini-Sub motors away.

Int. Mini-Sub Cockpit

Crane guides the sub toward the pyramid. He presses buttons and hears a pleasant female computer voice.

Computer

All scanners on line. Beginning analysis.

Ext. Pyramid Site – Pacific Ocean

The Mini-Sub now floats only a few feet from the structure.

Int. Mini-Sub Cockpit

Crane

Computer, actuator left, spotlight. Actuator right, recorder.

Computer

Initiating.

Ext. Pyramid Site – Pacific Ocean

Two mechanical arms emerge from hatches on each side of the Mini-Sub. One holds a spotlight while the other, a video camera.

Int. Mini-Sub Cockpit

Crane

Computer. Three hundred sixty degree systematic scan and record. Silent mode. Execute.

Ext. Pyramid Site – Pacific Ocean

The Mini-Sub backs away from the structure and slowly begins circling around it.

Int. Mini-Sub Cockpit

Crane

Now, let’s have a good look at you.

The instruments flood with data as the tiny sub stops momentarily at each side, scanning the markings thoroughly. Crane studies the video images.

Crane

I know I recognize those markings from somewhere.

He uses his sleeve to wipe the condensation from the bubble. Gawking through it, he peers at the structure. Then, his face looses all expression.

Crane

No. It can’t be.

Ext. Sky – Day

The Flying Sub speeds by. A moment later two American jet fighters chases after it in hot pursuit.

Int. Flying Sub – Seconds Later

Nelson studies his console.

Nelson

They’re still after us, Chief.

A voice booms through the speakers.

Pilot

FS One. This is the United States Air Force. You are ordered to return to New York Harbor immediately. Do you read? Over.

Nelson flips a switch.

Nelson

Air Force pilot, this is Admiral Harriman Nelson. Were your orders issued by the President herself?

Pilot

No sir. My authority comes from Fleet Commander…

Nelson

Listen to me Air Force. My authority comes from the President of the United States. And I will continue this heading until she and she alone resends it. Now, stand down.

Pilot

I’m sorry, sir, but my orders are clear. You must return to New York or I must use deadly force to shoot you down.

Nelson looks at Sharkey.

Sharkey

Shall we go sub-orbital Admiral?

Nelson

No Chief, that’s the wrong direction. We’ll can loose them if we…

An alarm rings. Sharkey speaks fast.

Sharkey

Sir, one of the fighters has a missile lock.

Pilot

FS One, this is your last warning.

Nelson

Air force, you’re in violation of…

Sharkey

He’s firing, sir!

Nelson

Evasive Chief.

Ext. Sky – Day

The Flying Sub noses up and shoots skyward. The missile and fighters follow.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Sharkey glances at the flashing readout on his console.

Sharkey

It’s a plasma seeker, sir.

Nelson

Cut the jets.

Ext. Sky – Day

The blue exhaust disappears. The Flying Sub quickly levels off and begins a steep dive. The missile continues skyward. A moment later the clouds glow with an explosion.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

The steep downward angle first pull the men forward against their restraints then back against their seats their speed increases. Sharkey glances at his console.

Sharkey

They self detonated the missile, Admiral.

Nelson

Well, at least that’s one down.

Ext. Sky – Day

The Flying Sub continues its nose dive toward the ocean. One of the fighters closing in fast behind them launches another missile.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

The flight deck starts shaking. Another alarms sounds. Nelson gazes at his console.

Nelson

Here comes another.

Sharkey

Admiral, we don’t have any decoys, or flares, or anything like that, do we sir?

Nelson

Sorry, Chief. I design this craft for just about everything except dog fighting.

Sharkey

I was afraid you’d say that.

Ext. Sky – Day

At the last second the Flying Sub restarts its jets, pulls out of the dive and levels off just inches above the water. Behind it, the missile plunges into the sea and explodes.

The fighters also drop to sea level and continue the chase.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Nelson

There’s only one way to end this, Chief.

Sharkey

Understood sir. Activating diving sequence.

Ext. Sky – Day

One of the fighters fires another missile which hugs the oceans surface as it rockets toward the Flying Sub.

But just as the missile is about to reach its intended target, the Flying Sub plunges into the ocean.

The missile noses down, trying to correct its course, but hits the water, causing it to skip end over end, until it too, explodes. The fighters head back for the sky.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Through its windshield, bright flashes illuminate the dark water in front of the Flying Sub as it continues to dive. Nelson and Sharkey glance at each other in relief.

Sharkey

I don’t think those jets will follow us down here, Admiral.

Nelson

Take her deep and let’s locate the Seaview.

Sharkey

Aye, sir.

Sharkey presses buttons.

Nelson

We’ll give it a little time, then take to the sky again when it’s safe.

****!! Don’t miss the next exciting Act !!****

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Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea – Act 4

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****************************************************************************

ACT 4

Int. Seaview – Nelson’s Quarters

Nelson sits at his console, his nose buried in the monitor’s display of information. Behind him, a half empty drink sits on his desk. His door chimes.

Nelson

Come in.

Crane enters and stands stiffly in front of the Admiral’s desk. Nelson shuts off the monitor, stands and looks Crane in the eyes.

Nelson

Captain, you were out of line with your comment. That’s insubordination and I won’t stand for it.

Crane

Permission to speak freely, sir?

Nelson

As long as it’s civil, granted.

Crane takes a breath and speaks authoritatively.

Crane

Sir, since this mission started, you’ve countermanded my orders or issued new ones without my knowledge on more than one occasion.

Nelson

Captain, if you’ll remember, I have full authority of command on this mission.

Crane

Admiral, you haven’t commanded a submarine in over twenty years. Although you may have designed and built it, this is still a Naval vessel and I’m still in charge of it’s crew.

Nelson

Is that what this is about? You think I’m a threat to your command?

Crane

No sir, I’m concerned you may be a threat to this sub, its crew, and our current mission.

Nelson gets visibly upset. His words sarcastic.

Nelson

Would you mind sharing how?

Crane keeps his cool.

Crane

How about if I give you an example? A little while ago you were more worried about getting your precious data than you were about the lives of this crew.

Nelson

Captain, need I remind you? If I don’t get that data there won’t be any lives left in the world, let alone in this crew.

Crane

And need I remind you, sir, that without this crew you’ll never get it. You can’t save the world by yourself, Admiral. Keep jeopardizing this crew with unnecessary risk, and there won’t be anyone left to help you.

Nelson

Unnecessary risks? I’ve never given an order…

Crane

Sir, there are still eleven search bots left on this boat. It takes less than ten minutes to reconfigure their shielding. Ten minutes, Admiral. We’ve got six injured, two of whom are in critical condition right now. They could have easily died, sir. Died to give you your ten minutes. We’ll spend more time making repairs.

Nelson stares at Crane a moment with a clenched jaw, then sits. He speaks calmly.

Nelson

Alright Captain, you’ve made your point. But as I said, you were out of line and I wont stand for it. Any disagreements you have with me will be taken up in confidentiality, not in front of the men. Those are the rules Captain. Do you understand?

Crane

Yes sir, I do understand. But apparently those rules don’t apply to everyone.

Nelson glares at Crane.

Nelson

Just what do you mean by that Captain?

Crane glares at the drink.

Crane

Drinking while on duty. Isn’t that breaking the rules, Admiral?

Nelson glances at the drink. Then turns back to his monitor. His tone completely ignores Crane’s comment.

Nelson

Don’t bother me with damage reports. Just get this sub patched up and on to the next way point as soon as possible. Dismissed.

Crane stiffens.

Crane

Aye, aye, sir.

He bolts for the door.

Nelson

And, Captain.

Crane stops and glares at Nelson, emphasizing each word.

Crane

YES, SIR?

The Admiral looks up from his monitor.

Nelson

Let’s use this time to get those remaining bots ready. You’re right, I should have checked the alternatives and I didn’t. If you will kindly continue to remind me, I will endeavor to listen and consider it.

Crane eases his posture and tone.

Crane

I will, Admiral. Anything else, sir?

Nelson

No, that will be all.

Nelson buries his face in his monitor. As soon as Crane leaves, Nelson looks up and stares at the drink. He steps to a lavatory and pours it out.

Int. Seaview – Sick Bay

Hiller notices Crane’s entrance into a sick bay buzzing with patients. He nods to her office. She says something to Michael then follows him in.

Crane

How are the patients?

Hiller

I’ve discharged Richter and Alvarez, and taken the rest off the critical list. It looks like they’ll all pull through. How are you holding up?

Crane

I’m Okay. It’s the Admiral I’m worried about. His command could jeopardize this mission. I may be forced to put a stop to it.

Hiller

Jesus Lee, your talking about mutiny.

Crane

I’m talking about saving what’s left of our home. And I can’t do that with an Admiral taking unwarranted chances with our only hope. Namely this boat.

Hiller

Are you positive you’re still not just frustrated with having the Admiral on board?

Crane

This has gone way beyond that, Lizzie. If he hadn’t overridden my orders, you wouldn’t have a sick bay full of injured sailors right now.

Cranes collar begins flashing.

Morton

Captain, this is Morton. We are ready to get underway.

Crane

Tracker on. Very well mister Morton. Take us to back to the original preprogrammed course and let’s try this again.

Morton

Aye sir. I’ll alert the Admiral. Control out.

Crane’s collar light extinguishes.

Crane

I’ve got to go.

The Captain heads for the door, then snaps his fingers and stops.

Crane

Oh. Have you had a chance to look over the data on the fuel cells?

Hiller

No, with all that’s been going on… Why? Do you think our last round of accidents was more sabotage?

Crane

No, they were caused by a bad decision, not equipment failure.

Hiller

Do you think the saboteur is still on board?

Crane

I don’t know. So far just the fuel cells are only evidence of sabotage we’ve found.

Hiller

Could have been done before we left port.

Crane

Or our saboteur is laying low, waiting to strike another system. Lizzie, I need you to carry on with the investigation.

Hiller

Lee, I…

Crane looks through the glass at the bustling sick bay.

Crane

Before you say it, I know you’re busy. But we must get whoever this is in the brig before they destroy our only hope of saving anyone.

Hiller takes a quick breath.

Hiller

Sure. I’ll let you know if I find anything.

Crane gently caresses her shoulders and smiles.

Crane

Thank you, Lizzie.

After a moment of gazing into Hiller’s eyes, Crane awkwardly takes his hands off her shoulders, drops them to his side and takes a couple of steps back.

Crane

Well, I better get to work. I’ll talk to you later.

Hiller keeps her eyes fixed on Crane as he disappears from her office. She drops her head and rubs her eyes.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview glides a safe distance along side the spewing lava.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton and the control room crew busy themselves at their stations. Crane steps in.

Kowalski

Approaching way point seven, sir.

Morton

Very well. Mister Keno, lay in the course heading for way point eight. Inform the Admiral.

Keno

Aye, sir.

Crane lowers himself in the command chair while Keno carries out his duties.

Crane

How long has he been at it, Chip?

Morton

Almost eleven hours. I’ll bet he’s sifted through terra-quads of data by now.

Crane

How many bots do we have left?

Morton

We’re down to our last two.

Nelson’s voice announces through the control room speakers.

Nelson

Mister Morton, I’ve lost contact with the bot.

Morton gives Crane a dry look.

Morton

Make that our last one.

Then presses buttons.

Morton

Understood Admiral. Just a reminder sir, only one bot left after this…

Nelson’s voice booms with excitement.

Nelson

Never mind…forget it.

Morton

Sir?

Nelson

I won’t need the bot, mister Morton. I’ve know the answer. Find the Captain…

Crane

I’m right here sir.

Nelson

Captain, please, come to my cabin immediately. Mister Morton, I’ll need the Flying Sub and a co-pilot in an hour.

Morton

Aye, sir.

Crane

On my way, Admiral.

Crane vanishes up the spiral staircase while some the crew quietly celebrates. Morton puffs a breath of relief.

Morton

Helm, take us up to Flying Sub launch depth.

Ext. Ocean

With a burst of bubbles, the Seaview floats upward and away from the lava mountain.

Int. Seaview – Nelson’s Quarters

Crane enters to find Nelson rummaging through his closet in his stocking feet.

Crane

Good news, sir?

Nelson steps from behind the closet door and throws a pair of shoes across the room. He’s almost giddy with excitement.

Nelson

It checks. It checks on the nose. I don’t see how we can miss.

Crane

A solution, sir?

Nelson

I’m sure of it. It’s radical, but I know it’ll work.

Nelson turns back to his closet and sifts through his selections of dress uniforms.

Nelson

This is something I’ve puzzled over for years, but I was never able to get the last bits information I needed to propose a solution. Until now.

He pulls out a dress uniform and throws it on the bed, then puts a hand on Crane’s shoulder. His demeanor is sincere and fatherly.

Nelson

Captain… Lee, I know it’s been difficult having a commanding officer on your sub, but I want to thank you for helping me get those last bits.

Crane

Your welcome sir, but you also have this crew to thank.

Nelson speaks while he gathers his shoes and sits behind his desk.

Nelson

I would love to, but unfortunately there’s no time right now. Washington needs this information immediately.

Crane

I understand Admiral, I’ll pass on the compliments.

Nelson opens a drawer, pulls out a cloth and begins buffing one of his shoes.

Nelson

As soon as the Flying Sub is launched, take the Seaview to the coordinates you’ll find in your encrypted orders and wait for my return.

Crane

Aye, sir. Admiral, if it’s not too complicated, just what is the solution?

Nelson stops buffing, rolls his eyes to meet Crane’s and grins.

Nelson

The Seaview is the solution.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Standing opposite the spiral staircase, Nelson and Sharkey wait in front of the access door to the Flying Sub. Crane steps up.

Crane

We’re at launch depth sir.

Nelson

Chief?

Sharkey presses buttons on a panel next to the door. It slides open. Inside, awaits a circular elevator large enough for four people. Nelson and Sharkey step in.

Crane

Good luck gentlemen.

The men nod their heads as the door closes in front of them.

Int. Flying Sub Hangar

The glass-enclosed elevator descends a few feet vertically into the huge hangar deck. Below them, the Flying Sub, a yellow clam shell-shaped craft, is poised for launch.

The elevator moves simultaneously downward and diagonally through a clear shaft leading to a hatch at the top-center of the Flying Sub.

Int. Flying Sub Hangar – Elevator

Nelson

Thank you for volunteering, Chief.

Sharkey

Oh no, thank you, sir. Any chance to sit behind the wheel of the Flying Sub, uh, not that I didn’t want to help or anything, sir.

Nelson smiles and thinks a moment.

Nelson

But the Flying Sub doesn’t have a wheel, Chief.

Int. Flying Sub Hangar

The men reach the end of the clear, diagonal tube and descend vertically again, directly through the Flying Sub’s hatch. They disappear into the craft.

Int. Flying Sub Hangar – Elevator

The elevator glides to a stop. A pleasant female voice announces “Flying Sub Flight Deck.” The door opens. Sharkey motions to Nelson.

Sharkey

After you sir.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

The men move up to the pilots and co-pilots seats. Behind them, the elevator retracts and the hatch seals.

Sharkey

Beginning power up sequence, Admiral.

Nelson and Sharkey strap themselves in. The Chief begins pressing buttons and flipping switches. The Flying Sub comes alive with lights and sounds.

The Chief grins and speaks to his console.

Sharkey

Wake up sleepyhead.

Sharkey grabs the joysticks on the arms of his chair, Morton’s voice enters the cabin’s speakers.

Morton

FS one, this is Seaview. Do you copy?

Sharkey presses a button.

Sharkey

Computer, activate Tracker.

A light snaps on.

Sharkey

Seaview, this is FS one. We are powered up and ready for launch.

Morton

Flooding hangar deck.

Int. Flying Sub Hangar

A pool of water quickly forms beneath the Flying Sub. Within seconds the entire deck is submerged. Gigantic hangar doors slide open below.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Sharkey continues to press buttons as Morton’s voice is heard through the cabin’s speaker.

Morton

Releasing mooring clamps.

Int. Flying Sub Hangar

Two large arms release their grip the Flying Sub and retract. The small sub now floats freely.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Sharkey

Activating maneuvering thrusters.

Int. Flying Sub Hangar

The Flying Sub slowly drops vertically through the hangar doors until it clears the Seaview’s underside.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Sharkey

Engaging Plasma Jets.

Ext. Ocean

The pair of plasma-jets at the rear of the Flying Sub glows blue. The craft eases away from the Seaview.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

The XO’s processed voice is heard through the speakers.

Morton

FS One. You are clear and free to navigate. Enjoy the trip gentlemen. Seaview out.

Sharkey

Roger Seaview. Accelerating to flight speed.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane and Morton watch through the glass nose as the blue glow from the Flying Sub’s plasma-jets intensifies. Within seconds the craft disappears into dark waters.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Sharkey presses buttons.

Sharkey

Activating Slipstream.

Ext. Ocean

The burnt orange glow of the Slipstream force field, engulfs the Flying Sub. The Plasma Jets glow brighter as it accelerates toward the surface at great speeds.

As with the Seaview, far ahead of the Flying Sub, the conical shape of the Slipstream field gently moves the marine life from the path of the speedy ship.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

Nelson and Sharkey are pressed against their seats. Through a glass “windshield,” the sunlight of the surface slowly becomes visible. Sharkey grips the joysticks and smiles.

Sharkey

I just love this part, sir.

Nelson grabs on to his harness and gazes forward. The ocean’s bright surface rockets toward them.

Ext. Ocean Surface – Day

The sub leaps from the sea and momentarily hangs in mid-air. As it falls, jets ignite blasting it skyward, leaving a trail of blue haze following its path into the clouds.

Int. Flying Sub – Flight Deck

An ear to ear smile covers the Chief’s face as he guides the Flying Sub, his hands tightly gripped onto each joystick. His voice is joyous.

Sharkey

Boy, am I glad we’ve got us one of these!

After a moment of exuberance, Sharkey forces down his smile and looks over at Nelson.

Sharkey

Uh…sir.

Nelson grins.

Nelson

I’m happy you enjoyed it Chief. Are you just as enthusiastic about landing?

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane and Morton watch the overhead monitors track the Flying Subs progress. Crane presses buttons on his console then turns his attention to the Navigator.

Crane

Mister Keno, activate preprogrammed course, Nelson one.

Keno

Course laid in, sir.

Crane

All ahead one third. Execute.

The Seaview begins to raise and spin about her length in one graceful motion. Crane leans over to Morton.

Crane

Chip, this might be a good time to give the crew a break, now that we’ve lifted the communications blackout. It’ll give them a few hours to relax before the Admiral returns.

Morton

I’ll see to it, sir.

Morton leans over to Crane. He speaks quietly.

Morton

Captain, I know Doctor Hiller has her hands full right now. Since I have a little extra time, I’d be happy to take over the investigation again.

Crane

That’s generous of you Chip, but you’ve worked two shifts straight through. Wouldn’t you like a little time off?

Morton

Not really, sir. I’d rather stay busy, rather than pondering the apocalypse.

Crane

I don’t blame you. I’m trying not to think about it myself.

Crane pauses to reflect.

Crane

Alright Chip, I’ll talk to Doctor Hiller. The faster we can get whoever this is in the brig, the better.

Morton looks puzzled.

Morton

Sir? The evidence I turned over to Doctor Hiller seems to indicate the saboteur is no longer on board.

Now it’s Crane with a puzzled look.

Crane

What are you talking about, Chip?

Morton

She hasn’t told you?

Crane leans forward.

Crane

No, she hasn’t. Go on.

Morton

There are only three needles in our database that leave that particular type of puncture. Two are industrial, the third is medical and used for heart resuscitation. But Doctor Hiller eliminated the medical needle after she told me there were none missing.

Crane

That’s strange. She didn’t mention any of this to me. What about the industrial needles?

Morton

Same story there. Chief Sharkey conducted a thorough search and found all the needles accounted for.

Crane

Maybe the saboteur used the needle then put it back.

Morton

The industrial needles were tested for hydrazine and all came up clean. That’s why I assumed the saboteur must have finished his dirty work before we left port.

Kowalski

Captain, I’m picking up something unusual on the sea floor directly ahead.

Crane and Morton promptly turn their attention to the overhead monitors.

Crane

What do you have, mister Kowalski?

After Kowalski presses buttons, one of the monitors displays a video image of a long, narrow formation of flat rocks that resembles an ancient road.

Crane

What is that, Chip?

Morton

Looks like the Bimini Road.

Crane studies the data pouring in on the other monitor.

Crane

Does it lead back to the epicenter?

Kowalski

Yes sir. It also leads away from the epicenter.

Crane

Chip, take us down. I want a closer look.

Morton

Aye, sir. Blowing ballast.

Ext. Ocean

A blast of bubbles and the Seaview descends, slowly rotating, following the rock path.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane

Mister Kowalski, increase scanner range. I’d like to know what’s at the end of this ‘road.’

Kowalski issues an “Aye, sir” and presses buttons. Crane intensely studies the changing monitor information.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview descends and hovers only a few feet above the rock road.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

A flashing light appears on Kowalski’s monitor.

Kowalski

There appears to be a large, non-geological structure several miles ahead, sir.

Morton

What kind of structure could be at this depth that isn’t non-geological?

Kowalski

I don’t know sir, but it’s symmetrical with four equal sides.

Morton

How can that be? A human made object at this depth is impossible.

Crane

Helm, increase speed to full.

Crane steps down from the command chair and moves up to the glass nose. He gazes through it, then turns to Richter.

Crane

Increase forward lighting to maximum.

The nose mounted searchlight glows even brighter. In the distance, a huge, triangular dark shadow begins to take shape.

Richter

Maximum lumen, Captain.

Kowalski

Analysis coming in. Composition, stone. Size, four hundred square feet at the base, to one hundred square feet at the top. Height, one hundred feet.

Through the glass nose the familiar outline of a four sided pyramid begins to take shape. It grows ever larger as the Seaview closes in. Morton joins Crane at the glass panes.

Crane

Helm, take us to within one hundred feet of that structure.

Ext. Ocean

The rock road leads directly to the base of the pyramid. The Seaview slows its approach, then stops. The searchlight illuminates markings on the structure’s side.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane breaks his gawking to glance over his shoulder.

Crane

What else can you tell me about it mister Kowalski?

Kowalski

It’s appears to be a solid object, no chambers or hollow areas inside. No mechanical or biological features. There appears to be inscriptions chiseled in its side.

Crane and Morton stare in disbelief.

Morton

Incredible. Isn’t it?

Crane

Yes sir. That it is.

Kowalski

The age of the structure is on the magnitude of around one thousand years.

Crane gazes through the glass at the inscriptions illuminated by the Seaview’s searchlight. His eyes widen.

Crane

Chip, hold this position and gather as much information as you can.

Morton

And you’re going to…

Crane

Take a mini sub and get a closer look. I think I’ve seen those markings before.

****!! Don’t miss the next exciting Act !!****

I hope you enjoyed Act 2 !!!

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea – Act 3

to view a pdf version with the proper script formatting

Thanks For Reading !!!

****************************************************************************

Act 3

Int. Seaview – Engine Room – Fuel Cell Compartment

Crane squats down and looks at a fuel cell through a device resembling a pair of binoculars. Watching him are Morton and 40 year old Chief Terry Sharkey.

Sharkey has dark wavy hair and is shorter than Crane and Morton, but with a more muscular build. He leans over and points to the fuel cell.

Sharkey

See the puncture mark, sir?

Crane

I do now.

Crane stands.

Crane

You’ve examined them all?

Sharkey

With a fine tooth, Captain. I personally guarantee you sir, these two were the only ones affected.

Crane hands the device back to Sharkey.

Crane

How long before the repairs are complete?

Sharkey

We can get underway whenever you’re ready, sir.

Crane

Very good. Thank you, Chief.

Sharkey exits for the main area of the engine room where a pulsing reactor hums. Crane and Morton stay behind.

Crane

I want a full forensics of the puncture mark. I want to know what kind of device was used to inject the hydrazine into the cells.

Morton

Pretty clever. A few cc’s of hydrazine and the fuel cell becomes useless.

Crane

Too clever. And whoever it is, may still be on board this boat.

Crane gazes at the rack of fuel cells and wrinkles his brow.

Crane

I can understand the ballast control, but why sabotage the long range scanners?

Morton

Apparently they weren’t selected by system. ‘Whoever,’ just started at one end of the rack. It was fuel cell one and two that were injected.

Crane

So, ‘whoever’ didn’t target specific systems. That tells me they didn’t know much about this boat’s operation.

Morton

Aside from the fact that most of it’s systems runs off of these fuel cells.

A light embedded in Crane’s left shirt collar begins flashing. Sparks’ voice responds from his right collar.

sparks

Captain Crane. Admiral Nelson wants you to join him in his quarters immediately, sir.

Crane steps to a nearby panel and presses a button.

Crane

Crane here. Acknowledged mister Sparks, I’m on my way. Crane out.

The Captain again presses the button. Morton joins him.

Crane

Chip, I need answers. But keep it quiet. I don’t want the crew to start accusing each other.

Morton

We’ll just call it a ‘manufacturer’s defect’ for now.

Crane’s tone becomes sarcastic.

Crane

Yea right. Hydrazine in a hydrogen fuel cell. Pretty stupid manufacturer.

Crane makes his exit. A realization comes over Morton’s face. He focuses on a tag attached to the rack of fuel cells that reads: Manufactured by Nelson Industries.

Int. Seaview – Corridor

Doctor Hiller rounds a corner and spots Crane walking briskly. He disappears down another corridor. She chases after him.

Hiller

Lee! Wait up.

The Doctor catches Crane and keeps pace.

Crane

I’m sorry, but I can’t stop. I’ve got a briefing with the Admiral right now.

Hiller

I heard we almost didn’t get off the bottom. What happened?

Crane

Besides being slammed by the biggest tsunami ever recorded, we’ve have a few hardware glitches. Nothing major.

Hiller

What kind of glitches?

Crane and Hiller stop. The Captain locks his gaze with the Doctor.

Crane

The kind that would bore you. I’ll fill you in later.

The couple sway in unison. Crane glances around. His tone is indignant.

Crane

We’ve underway?

He cocks his head to the left.

Crane

Tracker on. Control room.

The light embedded in Crane’s left shirt collar begins flashing. Kowalski’s voice responds from his right collar.

Kowalski

Yes, Captain?

Crane

Kowalski, just where are we going?

Kowalski

New destination sir, the epicenter of that earthquake. Admiral’s orders.

Hiller looks at Crane with arched eyebrows.

Hiller

The earthquake?

Crane

Thank you, Crane out. Tracker off.

The light in Crane’s collar extinguishes. He looks off, pondering.

Crane

He must of got through to Washington.

Hiller

Why are we headed to where the earthquake happened?

With a wrinkled brow, Crane locks eyes with Hiller. His tone returns to indignant.

Crane

I don’t know. But he could have waited until he filled me in before sending this boat… Look, Lizzie, I really need to go. We’ll talk later.

With a half-hearted smile, Crane trots away. Hiller stands in an empty corridor, watching, until he disappears around a corner.

Int. Seaview – Nelson’s Quarters

In the corridor, Crane presses a button next to the door. Through a small speaker, Nelson’s processed voice responds with “come in.”

Crane enters to find Nelson studying a holographic image of the earth on a built-in console. A nearby computer monitor continually scrolls text and scientific data.

Crane

Admiral?

Nelson

Captain. Come take a look at this.

Richter’s voice reverberates through the speakers. Crane pauses to listen.

Richter

All hands. Prepare for Slipstream in sixty seconds.

Crane

Okay, so we are going somewhere and in a hurry. Admiral, I can’t be an effective skipper of this boat if you keep…

Nelson

Forgive me for stepping on your authority, but serious circumstances dictated our immediate departure.

Nelson pauses to lock eyes with Crane.

Nelson

Captain, most of the west coast of the United States has been destroyed.

Crane’s angered face melts into puzzlement.

Crane

What?

Crane joins Nelson at the console. The holographic earth rotates displaying a small red line in the Pacific Ocean southwest of Mexico.

Nelson points at the monitor screen. Crane reads the data and too, becomes slacked jawed and pale.

Crane

A volcano the size of Australia? Is that…even possible?

Nelson

Not only is it possible but it’s going to happen if we don’t stop it. The President has ordered us to the epicenter. We’re to investigate and come up with a plan to seal the rupture.

Crane

Sir, this may be a powerful submarine, but it’s no match against a volcano that will grow to the size of Australia.

Nelson

That’s the point. We need to stop it while it’s still relatively small.

Crane

How?

Nelson looks away from the holographic earth and stares out his portal, the glass pane reflecting the deep concern on his face. He rubs the back of his neck.

Nelson

I don’t know. But we must find a way or every living creature on this planet will die.

Crane

Admiral, are you sure there’s not some kind of mistake? A giant tsunami is one thing, but the end of the world?

Nelson pivots, again locking eyes with Crane.

Nelson

There’s no mistake Captain. We’ve better become experts on saving the world, or in seventy two hours, it won’t matter.

Crane

Seventy two hours?

Nelson

After that, the magma pressure will pop that tectonic plate like a cork from a champagne bottle. Nothing will survive for long after that.

Crane stares in disbelief, considering the Admiral’s words.

Nelson

You and I will begin going over this information at zero six hundred, try and get a head start. We need a plan of action long before we get there. Mister Morton can run things for a while.

The speaker booms with the Helmsman’s voice.

Richter

Attention all Hands, engaging Slipstream propulsion.

Nelson and Crane sway slightly with the acceleration. The portal now glows orange.

Crane

Actually I’ve got mister Morton working on another problem Admiral. We might have a saboteur on board.

Int. Seaview – Engine Room – Fuel Cell Compartment

Morton, on one knee, holds a small analyzer over one of the fuel cells. The device beeps and the display reads: ANALYSIS COMPLETE: GENERATING LIST.

Morton stands, continually reading the display. Another beep and the display reads: PROBABLE ORGIN OF PUNCTURE: ONE or more OF THE FOLLOWING NEEDLES.

Morton looks up with a dead pan expression. He moves to the other fuel cell and bends down on one knee.

Int. Seaview – Crane’s Quarters

Crane leans against his desk. Doctor Hiller examines the text and data on his computer monitor. She shakes her head.

Hiller

This is…absolutely incredible.

With an astonished look, she faces Crane.

Hiller

Does the rest of the crew know about this?

Crane

Not yet. The Admiral and I thought it best to maintain a communications blackout until we gathered more information.

Hiller gets agitated.

Hiller

Lee. Some of the crew have family on the west coast. They have a right to know if they survived.

Crane

Lizzie, according to the Admiral, we have less than seventy two hours to find a solution or no one on earth will survive. However heartless this may sound this crew has to be focused on their jobs and…

The Doctor’s collar flashes. She tilts her head toward it.

Sparks

Doctor Hiller, this is Sparks. You’re wanted in Sick Bay ma’am.

Hiller makes a quick glance at Crane.

Hiller

I hate these things.

Then looks back at her collar.

Hiller

Tracker on. Doctor Hiller here. Is it an emergency mister Sparks?

Sparks

No ma’am. They seem to be having a little trouble with one of the diagnostic beds.

Hiller

Alright, Tell them I’m coming. Tracker off.

The Doctor returns her gaze to the Captain.

Hiller

I’d better get down there.

She takes a step toward the door and stops.

Hiller

By the way, did you find the cause of those ‘hardware glitches’ as you called them?

Crane

That’s another depressing story.

Hiller

What could be more depressing than the end of the world?

Crane

How about a saboteur on board?

Hiller’s eyes widen.

Hiller

A saboteur? Do you have any idea who it is?

Crane

Not yet. I’m having Chip run a forensic analysis, try and find out what kind of instrument was used. But with everything else that’s going on, I really need him in the control room, not running around playing Sherlock Holmes.

The Doctor re-positions herself a couple of steps in front of Crane. She gazes into his eyes, her voice full of sincerity.

Hiller

Lee, I have a background in forensics. I can take over. It’ll help to keep my mind off our dilemma.

Crane ponders.

Crane

Alright Lizzie, but remember, you have keep this confidential. Involve as few of the crew as you can. I don’t want anyone distracted by suspicion and rumors.

Hiller

I understand.

Crane escorts Hiller to the door.

Crane

Thanks Lizzie. I’ll send Chip by in the morning.

The Doctor takes a moment to shoot Crane a pleasant smile before disappearing out the door.

Int. Seaview – Corridor

Morton greets several crew members with, “morning,” accompanied with a head nod as he walks through a congested corridor. He enters sick bay carrying an analyzer.

Int. Seaview – Sick Bay

Doctor Hiller is having a conversation with her assistant Michael, a young man in his early 20’s. She acknowledges Morton’s entrance only with a quick head nod.

Hiller

Thank you. I’ll look in to it.

Michael disappears into the adjoining lab. Hiller turns and half-heartedly smiles at Morton.

Morton

The Captain asked I turn over the information I’ve gathered about the fuel cells.

Morton hands her the analyzer. She begins studying the readings as she speaks.

Hiller

So it was the fuel cells that were sabotaged?

Morton

That’s right Doctor. And thank you for the help.

Hiller

No problem.

Morton

The cells were injected with hydrazine. There’s only a few needles aboard capable of creating that type of puncture in the cell casing.

Hiller presses buttons on the analyzer.

Morton

Two are specialized industrial tools used aboard this sub. The third is a heart injection needle used in emergencies to resuscitate heart attack victims.

Hiller

I see that.

Morton

Doctor, are you missing any such needles?

Hiller keeps looking at the analyzer’s display.

Hiller

Uh…no…

She makes a face at it then looks at Morton.

Hiller

I mean…not that I know of. But I’ll double check to make sure.

Hiller makes her way to her desk. Morton follows and stands attentively.

Hiller

I haven’t had any heart attack victims so…

She presses buttons on her computer terminal and stares at the monitor. Her tone is confident as she locks her gaze with Morton.

Hiller

No, it looks like they’re all here.

Morton’s collar begins flashing.

Richter

Mister Morton, target destination approaching, sir.

Morton

Tracker on. On my way. Alert the Captain and Admiral.

Richter

Aye, sir. Control room out.

Morton

So. I suppose we can rule out someone taking one from your inventory?

Hiller

Looks like it.

Morton offers a forced smile.

Morton

Thank you Doctor. Good luck.

Hiller watches until Morton leaves her office and Sickbay. Immediately she finds Michael and begins an unheard conversation.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Nelson and Crane make their way from the spiral staircase to an alcove in the back of the control room. Centered, is a waist high console, the Situation Table.

Morton is studying the holographic images floating just above the table’s surface. Crane inserts a disk. A monitor reads: DOWNLOADING TO NAVIGATION.

Nelson

Good morning mister Morton. I hope you slept well.

Morton

Actually I did, sir.

Nelson

Good. Captain Crane and I have been working on a plan of approach.

Nelson turns to Crane.

Nelson

Captain?

Crane

The lava discharge is along the north and south boundaries of the Cocas plate.

Crane presses buttons. The holographic display changes, depicting his description.

Crane

We’re coming up from the southwest. We’ll creep along in a series of preprogrammed way points first, then along the northern boundary.

Morton

I hope not too close. If the currents change we’d get pelted by molten lava.

Nelson’s tone is confident.

Nelson

We can divert power from non-essential systems to shore up the Seaview’s polarized shielding, mister Morton.

Morton gives Crane a quick glance.

Crane

Admiral, I believe it would be prudent to keep the Slipstream sequence activated. We can maneuver on thrusters well enough to conduct the analysis.

Nelson shrugs his shoulders and nods in half-hearted agreement.

Crane

We may need to make a quick get away.

Morton shakes his head in acknowledgment. Crane presses more buttons. The holographic images continue.

Crane

What we really need is to know is the exact conditions deep in the lava gorge surrounding the tectonic boundaries.

Nelson

Once we’ve determined the lava flow rate, we’ll know how much time we have left.

Morton

Before what sir?

Nelson

Before the cork pops from the bottle and a genie destroys this entire planet, mister Morton.

Crane

The corner of the Cocas plate is continuing to be lifted. When it reaches more than twelve thousand feet…

Morton

The cork pops. I understand, sir.

Crane

I want every sensor we have directed at that gorge, Chip. We need data, lots of it and fast.

Nelson

Once we gather enough information, we’ll move off to a safe distance and evaluate.

Morton

Understood, sir.

Nelson

I’ll want to take the Flying Sub to Washington as soon..

Richter’s voice sounds through the alcove’s speakers.

Richter

Way point one, dead ahead Captain.

Nelson

Gentlemen, I believe that’s our cue.

On their way to their chairs and consoles, Morton paces Nelson.

Morton

I’ll have the Flying Sub ready for you, sir.

Nelson

Thank you, XO.

Above them, the bank of video monitors begins displaying information. Everyone takes their seat.

Crane

Helm, disengage the Slipstream, but keep the sequence activated.

Richter

Aye, sir. Slipstream answering all stop.

Ext. Ocean

The orange glow around the Seaview fades slightly and the sub slows to a crawl. Ahead, in the distance, an eerie red glow illuminates violently churning water.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane

Mister Keno, position please.

Keno presses buttons. Text and graphics begins scrolling on the overhead video monitors.

Keno

We are a half a mile southwest of the lava flow, holding at z-minus twenty thousand, sir.

Crane

Activate the preprogrammed course.

Keno

Course plotted and laid in, sir.

Crane

Execute.

Ext. Ocean

A mass of bubbles discharge from the Seaview’s side. The sub begins to descend.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane

Helm, engage maneuvering thrusters, ahead one third. Activate polarized shielding.

Richter

Aye, sir. Ahead one third. Shields on line.

Ext. Ocean

The sub’s slight orange tint mixes with the red glow of the lava as the Seaview moves descends into a violently churning ocean that flickers like a campfire.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane

What have we got mister Kowalski?

Kowalski pushes buttons on his console causing the overhead monitors to display new information.

Kowalski

We’re approaching a large V-shaped mountain protruding roughly eight thousand feet above the sea floor and extending for eighteen miles in both directions.

Nelson

Caused by the lifting of the Cocas plate no doubt.

Morton

Edge of the cork, Admiral?

Kowalski

The lava is spewing from a gorge that varies in width from five hundred to twelve hundred feet. It runs along the northeastern boundary for eight miles, and along the southeastern boundary for seven miles, sir.

Through the glass, red sparklers begin dancing about in the bubbling water, now churning violently.

Kowalski

Captain, water temperature raising. Outer hull beginning to heat.

Crane

Richter, adjust shields to compensate.

Richter presses buttons with an “aye, sir.”

Crane

Keep an eye on the temperature, mister Kowalski.

Kowalski

Aye, sir.

Nelson moves to the front of the sub and stares through the glass panes. The flat top of a giant mountain comes into view above and behind the churning red water.

Nelson

Incredible.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview continues down the mountain, to the top of the lava wall, spewing like geysers. Water currents are depositing most of the lava along the mountain’s cliff.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Keno

Captain, we’ve reached the coordinates to begin the preprogrammed course.

Crane

Alright mister Richter, start the tour.

The Helmsman presses buttons.

Richter

Aye, sir. Engaging maneuvering thrusters.

Ext. Ocean

The small turbines begin pushing the Seaview along one side of the lava wall, keeping a safe distance from the spewing flames.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

All scanners starboard, Captain. Beginning analysis.

Nelson returns to his console and studies his monitor.

Morton

Receiving data stream… Correction, data stream breaking up.

Nelson

The lava is causing a solar flare effect. We’re going to have to move in closer to establish a signal lock.

Crane

Admiral, just a few hours ago you said this is as close as we dare get.

Nelson rubs the back of his neck.

Nelson

I know that Captain, but I must have the lava’s flow rate. That will be a crucial measurement in my calculations.

Crane thinks a moment.

Crane

Mister Morton, prepare to launch the search-bot we configured for the trials. It has rudimentary instruments and polarized shielding. Might hold long enough to get the information the Admiral needs.

Morton responds with “Aye, sir” and begins pressing buttons. Nelson again nods in reluctant agreement.

Morton

Bot ready for launch, sir.

Crane

Execute.

Ext. Ocean

The search-bot pops from a small hatch that opens in the belly of the Seaview. After flipping on its search light, the bot engages a small prop and speeds off.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

Bot is away. Fifteen seconds to contact, sir.

Ext. Ocean

The little bot speeds toward the lava, it’s polarized shielding sparking, protecting it from the occasional lava hits. Suddenly, it starts loosing control.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

The bot is experiencing cross currents, sir. It’s adjusting course and heading to compensate.

Ext. Ocean

The bot swaggers before correcting its position, then continues on its journey.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Nelson and Crane watch the progress on the overhead monitors. A red light flashes.

Morton

Sir, the bot just entered the gorge. Receiving telemetry. Temperature, twenty six hundred Fahrenheit, depth, varying from a half mile to seven point three miles…

Nelson

Seven miles?

Morton

Affirmative, sir. Lateral magma pressure increasing down the length of the boundaries. Pressure gradient is…

A light begins flashing on Morton’s view screen.

Morton

Sir, the bots shields are failing. Data steam breaking up…

The X.O. locks his gaze with Nelson.

Morton

I’m sorry Admiral, we’ve lost it.

Morton presses a few buttons then looks at Nelson.

Morton

Flow rate analysis, incomplete, sir.

Nelson leans in to Crane and Morton.

Nelson

Gentlemen, I HAVE to know that flow rate.

Crane

Chip, get down to Engineering and prepare another bot for launch.

Nelson

No, that’ll take too long. We need to get the Seaview in closer, use the instrumentation on board.

Crane leans in toward Nelson, lowering his voice.

Crane

Admiral, it’s foolish to risk…

Nelson

Captain we can divert additional power to the shields.

Crane

Sir, we don’t have any more to spare. We’re diverting the remaining power to keep the Slipstream active.

Nelson

Then divert power from the Slipstream. I guarantee the shields will hold.

Crane

Admiral, I’m not going to risk…

Nelson

You don’t have to Captain. I’ll take the responsibility. Now, take us closer. That’s an order.

Crane’s jaw tightens as he and Nelson have a momentary stare-down.

Crane

Mister Morton. Deactivate the Slipstream sequence and divert the power to the shields.

Crane sits back in his chair and stares directly ahead. He’s obviously upset, but restrained.

Ext. Ocean

The faint orange glow dissipates from the Seaview’s hull. The Plasma-Jets retract, replaced by the props, which slowly come to life.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

All ahead one third.

Crane

Chip, take us to within five hundred feet of the gorge.

Crane locks eyes with Nelson. His tone is somewhat sarcastic.

Crane

Is that close enough for you Admiral?

But Nelson’s response is cordial.

Nelson

Let’s hope so.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview moves closer to the fiery wall, the lava continuing to drift away from the sub.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Richter

Mountain range, nine hundred feet to starboard, sir.

Morton

Data stream still sporadic.

Richter

Eight hundred feet and closing.

A chime RINGS on Morton’s console.

Morton

I’ve got it, data lock confirmed.

Crane

Helm, hold this distance from the gorge.

Richter

Aye, sir. Holding at seven twenty two. Continuing on course.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview straightens her turn and begins running alongside the massive spewing chasm.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

Receiving telemetry. All scanners functioning. I’ll transfer the data stream to your station Admiral.

Nelson

Thank you, XO.

Nelson studies the readouts. Morton steps over and hovers behind him.

Nelson

Just what I suspected.

Morton

How’s that Admiral?

Nelson

For years geologist have been prepared for a shifting of the North Pacific plate to occur off the coast of Canada, just north of Washington state.

A graphic of the Pacific Ocean appearing on Nelsons monitor piques Cranes interest. He steps up beside Morton.

Nelson

But myself and a few others have predicted the shift to occur exactly where it did. Down here, where one of the worlds largest tectonic plates, namely the North Pacific, butts up to the worlds smallest tectonic plate, the Cocas. In the past few years the area has been extremely unstable…

An alarm sounds on Kowalski’s console.

Kowalski

Captain, water temperature above raising rapidly. It’s beginning to boil, sir.

Crane and Morton return to their stations.

Crane

Talk to me Kowalski. What’s going on?

Kowalski frantically presses buttons. An astonished look covers his face.

Kowalski

Sir, the water current has changed.

Richter

Multiple contacts above, closing fast. Range, fifteen hundred.

Kowalski

Captain, the current is now carrying the lava flow directly overhead.

Ext. Ocean

Explosions in the gorge sling the lava around like a wild back yard sprinkler, sending some of its debris hailing down on the Seaview.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The sub begins to rock and shake. Crane hurries to his command chair.

Crane

Helm, hard to port. Ahead full.

Ext. Ocean

Glowing chunks of lava create silver-white flashes as they bounce off the Seaview’s polarized shielding. The sub rocks with each impact.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Sparks fly from the Helmsman station, knocking Richter from her chair. Crane jumps to her aid as another barrage of hits cause other consoles to shoot fireworks.

Morton

Doctor Hiller, to the control room. Emergency.

Another barrage knocks Morton to the deck as he tries to man the Helm. Fire suppressants snuff the flames.

Kowalski

Captain, some of the lava is penetrating the shielding. Sir, it’s sticking to the hull and hardening.

Morton has managed to get himself in the Helmsman’s position.

Crane

Chip, get us out of here before we become part of that mountain.

Morton presses buttons. Nelson squats down beside Crane. Richter looks at him through narrowed eyes. Crane shoots Nelson an angry look.

Nelson

It’s going to be alright, the Doctor is on her way.

Ext. Ocean

An explosion in the chasm ejects a large blob of lava that hits the sub’s back side, violently forcing it toward the ocean floor.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The control room tilts up. Crane hangs on to a chair as Nelson and Richter slide backward.

Crane

Chip, emergency stabilizers, try to get us level.

Morton

Unresponsive Captain. There’s too much weight.

Ext. Ocean

Another huge explosion ejects a bigger blob of lava that sticks to the first. The Seaview rocks as it continues forward with its nose upward at a forty five degree angle.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Nelson props himself against a console and holds on to Richter. Crane pulls himself toward Morton.

Crane

Direct the forward thrusters upward, try to bring the nose down.

Morton

Captain, unless we shed this weight we won’t make it out of the debris field.

Another hit rocks the sub.

Crane

Send a twelve mega-joule power surge from bow to stern through the shields.

Morton presses buttons.

Morton

Ready.

Crane

Now!

Ext. Ocean

A white electric pulse starts at the nose and travels along the hull until it slams into the lava, knocking some of it off.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

That cleared some of the debris.

Crane

Again!

Ext. Ocean

Another white pulse and more debris falls off. With a third, the remaining lava is blasted away from the hull. The rear of the sub begins to raise.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The crew begin to relax as the control room returns to level.

Morton

We’re gaining speed. Ten seconds to clearing.

Doctor Hiller enters and is directed to where Nelson cradles the head of an unconscious Richter. She looses her balance slightly as the sub receives a few more hits.

Hiller squats down beside Richter and hovers a medical diagnostic instrument over her. The Control Room continues to shake, thwarting her effort to read its display.

Morton

Five seconds to clearing.

Kowalski

Ocean currents changing Captain. The lava is now floating away from us again, sir.

Ext. Ocean

Only a few small chunks graze the stern as the Seaview makes it into open water. The pandemonium subsides.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

We’re in the clear.

Crane

Keep going Chip, I want to be way in the clear in case mother nature changes her mind.

Morton

Aye sir, maintaining course and speed.

The Doctor gives Richter a hypo. The helmsman slowly begins coming to. Nelson looks on. Crane steps up.

Crane

How is she doing?

Hiller

She sustained a huge electrical shock.

Nelson

That’s impossible. There are safeguards to prevent…

Crane snaps his head toward Nelson. His words are sharp.

Crane

Apparently they didn’t work, Admiral.

Hiller

I need to get her to sick bay.

Richter sits up.

Richter

I’m alright, sir…I think.

Hiller

Are you experiencing any dizziness?

Richter

A little.

Hiller

Can you stand?

Richter

I believe so.

Hiller helps Richter to her feet. She leans against the Doctor as the two disappear through the back exit. Crane steps over to Morton manning the Helm.

Crane

Chip, how far?

Morton

Nearly four miles.

Crane

Okay, all stop and hold this position. I want a full damage report as soon as possible.

Morton

Aye, sir.

Crane steps to his chair and presses a button.

Crane

Damage teams, to the control room, on the double.

A replacement helmsman relieves Morton. Nelson intercepts him on his way to his station.

Nelson

Mister Morton, were we able to finish the analysis?

Morton

I don’t know sir, I’ll check.

The XO sits at his console and presses buttons. Crane glares at Nelson.

Crane

We’re certainly not going to get that close again if we didn’t.

Nelson and Crane engage in a brief stare-off as damage control teams begin pulling off panels around them.

Morton

Sorry, sir. Flow rate analysis is incomplete.

Nelson

Captain, I want to see you in my quarters in five minutes.

Nelson quickly exits. Crane and Morton exchange glances.

****!! Don’t miss the next exciting Act !!****

COMING SOON!

A screenplay about how St. Nicholas came to be Santa Claus.

I hope you enjoyed Act 1 !!!

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea – Act 2

to see the pdf version with the proper script formatting

Thanks For Reading !!!

****************************************************************************

ACT 2

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview lunges forward as the wave impacts. But the sub loses momentum, lodges in the cross currents and is dragged backward by the wave’s forward momentum.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The crew hold on as the sub rocks side to side. Debris bounces off the giant glass panes. The intense roaring sound of the wave force them to yell.

Crane

Helm, status!

Richter

Sir, the wave is pulling us backward. Forward velocity is negative.

Crane

Increase power to the Plasma-Jets.

Richter

Aye sir, reactor to one hundred ten percent.

Ext. Ocean

The blue glow of the Plasma-Jets brighten as the Seaview begins creeping slowly forward out of the swirling edge of the wave.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The loud roar and the rocking begins to subside. Richter looks relieved as she makes her announcement.

Richter

We have forward motion, Captain.

Suddenly the sub begins to rock radically side to side.

Richter

Encountering decompression vortices’s at the trailing edge of the wave. Attempting to stabilize rotation.

Ext. Ocean

Small turbines along the sub’s length begin to spin, slowing the rocking. But the wave is still dragging the Seaview backwards.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Richter presses a series of buttons.

Richter

Forward motion negative…correction, motion is now to stern.

She looks at Crane.

Richter

We’re being dragged back into the leading edge of the wave Captain.

Crane

Increase reactor output to one hundred fifty percent.

Nelson

Captain, that’s too much…

Kowalski

Sir, we’re getting dangerously close to the ice shelf.

Nelson

That means the shock wave will be slowing, weakening.

Crane

Admiral, we’ve got to…

Nelson

Captain. Please believe me. We can get out with less power and not risk a meltdown.

Crane studies Nelson a moment before looking at Richter.

Crane

Helm, increase power to one hundred THIRTY percent. Execute.

Ext. Ocean

The blue glow from the plasma jets turns into a purple haze. Again the Seaview begins to slowly move away from the violently churning water of the waves leading edge.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Richter reads her console.

Richter

Forward motion detected. Fifty FPS…one hundred FPS. We’re moving out of the wave front, sir.

Ext. Ocean

The nose of the sub moves downward, leveling as it travels toward the smoother waters on the back side of the wave.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton looks up from his console.

Morton

Captain, we’ve been slowly pushed toward the surface since encountering the shock wave.

Crane

Understood mister Morton. Adjust our ballast to compensate. I don’t want to be slammed against an ice berg at the last minute.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview is now in the trailing edge of the wave. The ocean’s surface is just beyond the up-current of water feeding the waves surfing edge.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Through the glass nose, sunlight reflects off the ocean’s surface on the other side of what looks like an upward flowing waterfall.

Crane

Steady as she goes Helm. Just ease us out of here.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview pops through the up-current of water at the trailing edge of the wave and into the conical shaped wake left behind. Then, into calm water.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The crew collectively begin to relax. Crane stands.

Crane

All stop.

Richter

Answering all stop, sir.

Ext. Ocean

The orange glow of the Slipstream field fades and the sub glides to a halt. The giant wave continues on it’s way behind them.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane looks over his shoulder as he steps toward the navigator’s position.

Crane

Mister Morton. Damage report as soon as possible.

Morton

Aye, sir.

Crane

Mister Keno, I want to know exactly where we ended up.

Keno

Aye, sir.

Nelson

I’ll get on the horn to Washington, see if they know…

An alarm begins to sound in tandem with warning lights on Kowalski’s console.

Kowalski

Sir, the wave front just hit the Getz Ice Shelf.

Nelson presses buttons on his console. Text scrolls by on the monitor.

Nelson

My God, it’s over eight hundred feet tall.

Keno

Captain, we’re located half a mile due north of the Getz Shelf. Latitude…

Nelson slaps his hand against the console.

Nelson

We’ve got to dive. Now! Sailor, takes us down, right now.

Crane

Sir?

Nelson

Switch on the stern camera.

Kowalski pushes a button. One of the monitors switches to a view behind the sub.

Nelson

Magnify.

Kowalski works his console. The monitor zooms in on a huge wave, carrying large ice boulders with it, rumbling toward the Seaview’s rear.

Crane jumps back to the command chair and activates the klaxon. The crew scurry to their stations.

Kowalski

Captain. The wave has rebounded against the shelf. Another shock wave bearing…

Crane

Helm, re-activate the Slipstream. Plasma Jets to maximum speed.

Nelson begins pushing buttons on his console. He studies the readout as the rest of the crew busies themselves at their stations.

Richter

Aye sir, sequence activated. Velocity set.

Kowalski

Fifty three seconds till contact.

Crane

Mister Morton, takes us down to fifty feet.

Morton

Aye, sir, z minus fifty.

Crane

I know we can outrun this one.

The Captain leans toward his console.

Crane

All hands prepare for Slipstream velocity…again.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview descends in a sea of bubbles. The orange glow forming around the hull quickly vanishes beneath the sea.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Morton

Fifty feet Captain.

Richter

Sir, Slipstream activated. Plasma-Jets are hot.

Crane

Execute.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview shoots away from the approaching mayhem of ice water barreling toward them.

Far ahead of the sub, the Slipstream field gently moves the marine life to the side, allowing it to pass without smacking them.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Nelson studies the readout of his console. His eyes widen and leans over to Crane, speaking in a low tone.

Nelson

Captain, we’ve got to crash dive.

Crane

Admiral, we’d have to disengage the Slipstream to crash dive. We can’t afford to stop…

Kowalski

Captain, the wave is gaining on us.

Crane

What?

Nelson

Captain, listen to me. As we head into deeper water the wave will get smaller but it’s speed will increase. We can’t outrun this one either.

Kowalski

Sir, distance to the wave is closing by two hundred feet per second.

Crane leans toward the Admiral and lowers his voice.

Crane

Admiral, even with the shields, we’ll get pounded by the ice…

Nelson

Ice floats. It’ll only sink so far before floating back to the surface. If we take her deep, go under that mess, we can handle what’s left of the wave.

A realization comes over Crane’s face. He directs his attention to the helmsman.

Crane

Helm, all stop. Disengage the Slipstream. Mister Morton, prepare for crash dive.

Morton

Aye, sir.

Crane

Props!

Ext. Ocean

The orange glow disappears. The Seaview glides to a stop. The props re-appear and begin churning, moving the sub forward.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Crane

Mister Morton blow ballast. Set depth to five hundred feet. Helm, all ahead full. Bring polarized shielding on line.

Ext. Ocean

The Seaview descends, trailing a blast of bubbles. The hull begins illuminating a dull silver glow. The wave closes in.

Bus-size chunks of ice ferociously churn at the waves edge plummeting them deep into the sea before bobbing back to the surface.

The wave begins overtaking the stern. Ice boulders slam the hull. A silver sparkle accompanies each hit as the polarized shields attempt to repel the blows.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The crew yell their reports over the noise and shaking.

Morton

Shields holding. Minimal damage to hull. Depth, one hundred fifty feet.

Crane

Helm, close crash doors.

Richter presses buttons. Large doors with scalloped edges shut over the glass nose.

Crane

Mister Morton, can we sink any faster?

Morton

Not and maintain a safety factor.

Ext. Ocean

The shower of ice boulders now rains down on the Seaview. The entire hull sparkling silver as the shielding tries to resist the pounding.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Keno

Captain, shields are weakening.

Crane

Mister Morton. Forget the safety factor. Dive this boat.

Morton

Aye sir.

Morton presses buttons. Crane and Nelson exchange glares.

Morton

One seventy five, two hundred, two twenty five…

The shaking and pounding subsides. The control room returns to its usual hum.

Morton

Three hundred…

Crane

Stop decent. Hold this position.

Morton

Aye, sir. Helm, all stop. Thrusters at station keeping.

Morton presses buttons on his console, slightly jerks his head, and tries again.

Morton

Captain, ballast control is non-responsive. I can’t slow our decent.

The Captain steps up to Morton’s console.

Crane

Please don’t tell me that, Chip.

Morton continues to press buttons, each time getting a red light accompanied by a monotone buzz.

Morton

I’m sorry sir. Apparently another fuel cell failure. Re-routing, switching to back up.

Crane

Kowalski, how close are we to the bottom.

Kowalski

It’s only about two hundred feet below us sir.

Nelson

We’ve got to slow our decent or even with polarized shielding this sub will crack like a egg when it hits bottom.

Crane looks over the readouts on his console then turns to the helmsman.

Crane

Helm. Maneuvering thrusters. Down angle. Maximum velocity.

Richter

Aye sir. Thrusters to full.

Ext. Ocean

The side thrusters spin furiously. Albeit slower, the Seaview continues falling toward the ocean floor.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Richter

Decent speed reduced sir. However not enough to resist implosive impact.

Crane

Mister Morton.

Morton

I’m working on it Captain.

Morton, focused on his console, presses buttons quickly. A green light flashes accompanied by a pleasant chime. He spits out his next sentence as if it were one word.

Morton

Ballast control restored slowing decent.

Ext. Ocean

Bubbles blast from the Seaview’s side, rapidly slowing its fall. The side thrusters begin blasting dirt up from the sea floor as the sub nears the bottom.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

Some of the crew are knocked from their chairs when the sub makes contact. Sparks fly from consoles but fire suppressant quickly snuff them out.

Morton

We’re down.

Exhaust fans remove the smoke. Crane looks over the control room.

Crane

Anyone need medical attention?

No one takes up the Captain’s offer. He turns his attention back to Morton.

Crane

Report.

Morton

We’re resting on a stable part of the sea floor. Hull pressure is minimal. Life support is fully functional. Damage appears minimal. For now.

Kowalski

Sir, the wave has moved to a safe distance. We have still waters above.

Crane

What about it, Chip?

Morton

No reason to stay here.

Crane nods his head. Morton presses buttons. The klaxon sounds again as Morton’s voice echo’s through the sub.

Morton

Surface, surface. All hands, the sub is surfacing.

Ext. Ocean

With another puff of bubbles the Seaview lifts off the ocean floor. Nearing the surface, the sun illuminates the bottom of the countless ice boulders floating above.

Ext. Ocean Surface – Day

Bubbles form, pushing the boulders aside. The Conning Tower, followed by the rest of the sub, surfaces to a sea surrounded for miles by floating ice.

Int. Seaview – Control Room

The crash doors open. One by one the crew stop what they’re doing to gawk through the glass nose at the ice spectacle.

Crane and Nelson slowly step up to the huge clear panes. They too stare in disbelief at an ocean of giant ice cubes stretching to the horizon.

Nelson

My God.

Kowalski

Captain?

Kowalski presses buttons and gazes at the overhead monitors. Crane steps back and also gawks at the screens. Morton joins him.

Kowalski

Sir, the Getz Ice Shelf, it’s…it’s… completely gone.

Crane and Morton give each other a quick glance.

Nelson heads for the spiral staircase.

Nelson

I’m going to make that call to Washington.

Int. Seaview – Nelson’s quarters

Leaning back with his stocking feet propped on his desk Nelson lights a cigar. After a quick puff, a chime rings. He presses a nearby button.

Nelson

Nelson here.

A voice with a definite southern accent belonging to Communications Officer EDMOUND SPARKS, announces through the cabin’s speakers.

Sparks

Admiral, Washington on the line for you. Secretary of the interior, Reynolds waiting to speak to you sir.

Nelson drops his feet to the floor while dousing his cigar in a ashtray. Scooting his chair close to his desk he assumes a proper posture.

Nelson

Alright mister Sparks, pipe it down here.

Sparks

Transferring sir.

Nelson’s desktop monitor flickers on. FRANKLIN REYNOLDS, a gray haired man with a very serious expression, comes into focus. His voice is subdued.

Reynolds

Harry, good to see you’re still in one piece.

Nelson

Franklin, what’s happened? We haven’t been able to make contact with the fleet or San Francisco…

Reynolds

Harry, most of San Francisco has been destroyed.

Nelson

My God.

Reynolds

The tsunami you encountered flooded the our entire west coast, as well as those of Mexico. Up to twenty three miles inland. The Baja peninsula is completely submerged. Millions Harry, millions of people, are dead.

Nelson, slack jawed, quickly glances at his wife’s picture.

Nelson

What’s being done?

Reynolds

The President’s issued a state of National Emergency. Coast Guard and what’s left of the Navy…

Nelson

What do you mean ‘what’s left?’

Reynolds

Harry, the biggest part of the Pacific Fleet was lost on their way to the battle simulations with the Seaview.

Nelson

Lost?

Reynolds

It gets worse.

Nelson leans in toward his monitor.

Reynolds

The earthquake was caused by the subduction of the Cocas and Pacific tectonic plates. It created crack along the border the size of the Grand Canyon. And it’s getting bigger every minute. Harry, if it follows the current projections the Cocas plate will continue to rise along it’s boundaries and will ultimately dislodge. I’m sure you realize what happens next.

Nelson

The earth’s molten core becomes uncorked.

Reynolds

Releasing unimaginable amounts of lava that’ll soon breach the surface. It’s estimated to create a volcano the size of Australia.

The Admiral looks stunned.

Reynolds

Harry, we need you to push that cork back in. Seaview is the only sub that can reach those depths. The President wants you to assess the situation and report to Washington as soon as possible.

Nelson

Certainly.

Reynolds

The United Nations has called an emergency summit in New York. Germany, France, Russia, are all sending their top scientist. Some have already arrived. The President needs your input fast, before speculation turns into panic.

Nelson

Understood. We’ll get underway immediately.

Reynolds

I’m sending you a all the information we’ve gathered so far, but it’s not much. We need a up close assessment.

Reynolds leans in close to his monitor.

Reynolds

Harry, if we don’t fix this, the earth will be past the point of being habitable in less than a month. We can’t fail.

Nelson

We won’t.

Reynolds

Good luck and God Speed.

Nelson leans back in his chair and glances off.

Nelson

I don’t think God is going to be offering us any miracles this time.

Reynolds

Well Harry, if he doesn’t, we’re all screwed. Reynolds out.

Nelsons monitor goes blank. He presses a button and clears his throat.

Nelson

Helm. This is Nelson.

****!! Don’t miss the next exciting Act !!****

The New Voyage

This is a script I wrote a few years ago. It’s a loose remake of the 1961 movie starring Walter Pigeon and Barbara Eden with a few modern twist. Here’s the synopsis…

Unless it can be stopped within 72 hours, a massive underwater volcano will destroy humanity. The Seaview, the world’s most advanced submarine, is sent to investigate.  Near the volcano, they find a Mayan Pyramid on the bottom of the ocean with an inscription on how to quiet the raging inferno. Do they take the advice of a thousand year old profit or wait for the U.N. and the world’s scientist to come up with a better solution?  Time is running out and a decision has to be made now or the world will come to an end!

I’ve updated the submarine Seaview with some new “eye candy” gadgets such as “Slipstream Propulsion,” the underwater equivalent of “Warp Drive.” There’s also a new version of the Flying Sub, which gets into a dogfight with a couple of American fighter jets.

There’s excitement, drama and of course, romance in this modern version of a movie classic.

Check out this cool “Voyage” website!!!

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea – Act 1

to read the pdf version with the proper script formatting

I hope you enjoy this first Act! Keep watching for more!

**************************************************************************************

Fade In:

SUPERIMPOSE: CIRCA 300 A.D.

INT. PRIMITIVE GRASS HUT – NIGHT

A single shaft of moonlight exposes a man sleeping on the ground in an otherwise dark room. Huge leaves make his bed. Stone tablets with inscriptions are stacked neatly nearby.

A closer look of the man reveals a brow of sweat with several drops already collecting in a pool on one of the leaves of his bed. His face contorts, he thrashes about.

The man’s dream is filled with quick images of violent explosions, massive flaming boulders raining down on his village, spreading across the sea causing it to boil.

He awakes and bolts upright. He wipes his brow and gazes at his hand. The moisture in his palm glistens off the moonlight. He grabs one of the tablets and dashes outside.

EXT. CAMPFIRE OUTSIDE THE GRASS HUT – DAWN

The sound of the waves can be heard through the crackling of the fire. The man sits on the ground in front of it, dipping a rag into a clay pot of water.

He wipes the edges a stone tablet propped on his lap. Beside him, three bowls of colorful liquid sit next to a feather, its tip coated with one of the colors.

He gently blows across the wet inscriptions then repositions it for a better gaze in the sunlight now peering over his shoulder.

Behind him a young boy emerges from the grass hut and walks toward him. The man sits the tablet down, reaches out and pulls the boy in for a hug and kiss on the forehead.

An ascending view reveals the campfire to be in a village. The village on top of a densely forested mountain. The mountain next to an oceanic coastline.

Credits roll as our birds eye view travels along the coastline then out into open sea. Ocean waves fills the view eventually morphing into an entirely new scenery.

EXT. ANTARCTICA – DAY

SUPERIMPOSE: ANTARCTICA – DECEMBER 21, 2012

Ice mountains litter the snowy landscape. The setting sun silhouettes against a cloudy blue sky. The calm sea in the foreground begins to bubble.

The glass nose of the submarine Seaview burst through the bubbles reaching skyward. It’s slender hull almost vertical to the horizon.

The sub slows its climb until becoming momentarily motionless. The nose falls, the stern bobs into view. A slender glistening hull now floats on the surface.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

The close view of a video monitor with a well groomed anchorman making his delivery.

Anchorman

Tonight’s top story comes from the bottom of the world. The USS Seaview, a remarkable new submarine has just set an unbelievable underwater speed record during its trial run. Utilizing ‘Slipstream Propulsion’, a carefully guarded secret developed by scientist and former navy admiral Hiram Nelson, the Seaview made the journey from its port in San Francisco to the coast of Antarctica in less than five days. During the next two weeks the unique glass nosed sub will be testing several new deep water systems in the South Pacific to determine if Congress will give the green light to a lucrative naval contract with the Nelson Institute for Marine Research, the Admiral’s privately owned company. Opponents claim unmanned subs could do the same job at a fraction of the cost and have dubbed the project “Nelson’s Folly.” In an exclusive interview last month Nelson defended the hundred billion dollar submarine…

The anchorman freezes. The words PAUSE superimpose across his face.

Gathered around a bank of overhead video monitors is the sub’s control room crew. Among them is 57 year old Admiral Hirriman (Harry) Nelson. Medium height, and a fit man for his age.

Standing beside Nelson is the Captain of the Seaview, 39 year old Lee Crane, tall and handsome, with curly jet black hair. The duo turns to address the crew.

Nelson

Ladies and gentleman, modesty simply won’t allow me to watch any further. So instead, I’ll congratulate you again on a job well done. We’ve made history.

The crew claps with pats on the back and handshaking.

Nelson

Now it’s on to our next task. A game of hide and seek with the Pacific forces.

Nelson pauses a moment and gazes at his audience. His voice has the distinct tone of bravado.

Nelson

And from what I’ve seen of this crew’s performance, I’m confident that by the time those Navy boys find this sub, we’ll be back in San Francisco drinking Tennessee whiskey.

The sailors begin to clap and cheer.

Nelson

Stations if you please.

The crew take their post. Nelson gestures to Crane.

Nelson

Captain.

Crane turns to Robert “Chip” Morton, the 34 year old Executive Officer.

Crane

Mr. Morton, prepare to dive.

The three men take their seats, bar stool like chairs with consoles at their side. Arranged in a semi-circle in the middle of the control room, Crane occupies the center seat.

Crane

Make depth one hundred feet.

Morton presses buttons on his console.

Morton

Depth, one hundred feet, aye.

The klaxon sounds. His voice reverberates throughout the sub.

Morton

Diving stations. Diving stations. All hands prepare to dive.

On every deck, the crew methodically scrambles to get to their stations. Morton watches his console. One by one several red lights turn green.

Morton

All green, Captain.

Crane

Take us down Chip. Helm, all ahead two thirds. Prop speed.

The helm is occupied by 26 year old Donna Richter, a blond haired, blue eyed beauty with a soft German accent.

Richter

Aye sir. Props ahead two thirds.

The sea begins churning against the two huge glass windows at the forward end of the control room. The sky slowly vanishes behind curtain of bubbles.

Crane

Navigator, come to course three five four degrees.

The Seaview’s Hawaiian born navigator, 26 year old David Keno, responds.

Keno

Aye sir. Three five four degrees.

Crane

Execute.

EXT. OCEAN – DAY

The Seaview slowly descends beneath the icy water and makes a graceful banking turn. Nestled below the windows in the nose of the sub, a bright searchlight flickers to life.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

Seen through the glass nose, the churning bubbles have been replaced with clear sea.

Morton

Depth, one hundred feet, Captain.

Crane

Very well, Mr. Morton. Zero angle on the planes.

Morton

Aye, sir.

Crane turns to Nelson.

Crane

On course, Admiral.

Nelson pushes himself up from his chair.

Nelson

You should get some rest. The Seaview will need its Captain alert and ready when the simulations begin.

Crane

I will, sir. Just have a couple of things to take care of first.

Nelson

Fine. I’ll be in my quarters.

Nelson disappears up a spiral staircase near the sub’s nose. Crane follows but stops at one of the huge glass panes. He gazes at the panoramic view. Morton joins him.

Morton

Beautiful, isn’t it, sir?

Crane

That it is Mister Morton. But it’s all going to change in about twelve hours.

Crane looks at his XO and grins.

Crane

That’s when the ‘fun’ begins.

The Captain pats Morton on the shoulder.

Crane

Goodnight, Chip.

Morton

Goodnight, sir.

Crane too disappears up the spiral staircase. Morton returns his deadpan gaze through the windows.

INT. SEAVIEW – NELSON’S QUARTERS

Nelson rummages through a desktop littered with paperwork. He uncovers a picture of a lovely lady. He picks it up and gently sits it on an uncluttered corner of the desk.

He looks fondly at the picture then moves some paperwork aside uncovering several of the desk’s many buttons. He presses one.

A pleasant bell sounds. Nelson clears his throat, loosens his tie and leans back in his chair.

Nelson

Continuation of personal log. We’ve reached Antarctica and surfaced just off the Getz Ice Shelf. I can’t describe how proud I am of the Seaview and its crew. The Slipstream has performed superbly, and I’m anxious to see if the other systems fair as well.

Nelson leans forward and unties his shoe.

Nelson

Now it’s on the part I’m really not looking forward to. War games. ‘Battle simulations’ as the brass likes to refer to them now. And the Seaview is the bait. All we have to do is evade the entire Pacific Fleet for seventy two hours.

His shoe hits the floor.

Nelson

Actually, sounds pretty easy knowing what this sub is capable of.

The Admiral’s other shoe drops to the floor. He leans back in his chair, props his stocking feet on his cluttered desk and continues narrating

Nelson

And finally the last leg of the trials. What I am really looking forward to, ten days of ocean bottom exploration of the Pacific…

INT. SEAVIEW – SICK BAY

Crane enters. He stands by the door and gazes at MICHAEL a nurse, buzzing between several diagnostic beds. He’s treating holographic patients who appear severely injured.

Through a glass door, the sub’s doctor, 30 year old ELIZABETH Hiller, has her attention focused on her computer monitor.

Crane watches Michael for a moment then steps into Hiller’s office.

Crane

Expecting trouble Doctor?

Hiller looks up.

Hiller

I wanted be prepared in case we have ‘simulated injuries’ during our little bout with the Navy. Who knows, we might get bonus points.

Crane

That’s quite possible.

The Doctor presses a button on her desk. The clear glass door to her office darkens. She stands and slowly strolls over to Crane. Her voice has become ‘playful.’

Hiller

Now Captain, you wouldn’t be giving away any secrets about the simulation would you?

Crane returns the playful tone.

Crane

Only if I’m tortured.

Hiller

Just what kind of torture are we talking about?

Crane smiles.

Crane

I don’t know. But I’m sure you could come up with something original.

Hiller moves closer as if she’s about to kiss the Captain.

Hiller

Say something really slow, maybe start with…

Hiller abruptly stops her advance when a red light embedded in Crane’s left shirt collar begins flashing.

A second later, Morton’s processed voice is clearly heard from a speaker embedded in the Captain’s right collar.

Morton

Captain Crane, this is Morton.

Hiller turns away and grimaces. Crane ducts his head toward his right side.

Crane

Tracker on.

The flashing collar light turns from red to green.

Crane

Yes, Mr. Morton.

Morton

Sir, I hate to disturb you but, something has come up that you should know about right now. Could you report back to the control room, sir?

Crane glances at the Doctor, who is starring at the wall with a frustrated look on her face.

Crane

Sure Chip, I’ll be right there.

Morton

Thank you, sir. Morton out.

Crane

Tracker off.

Hiller glares at Crane and steps toward him.

Crane

I need to go…

Hiller

You NEED to get your rest. Let your XO handle whatever is going on for a change.

Crane

This sounds important. I’ll talk to you later.

Crane leans in and kisses Hiller on the cheek, then heads for the exit. Hiller follows.

Hiller

Lee, don’t kill yourself just to impress the Admiral…

Crane abruptly stops and locks his eyes with hers.

Crane

Impress the Admiral? I’m just doing the best I can, Lizzie. Given these…circumstances.

Hiller

Circumstances?

Crane

Of having a C.O. aboard my boat. In the Navy I joined, the Captain of a submarine was the master and commander of his vessel.

Hiller

You’re forgetting these are the trial runs of a submarine HE designed. The Admiral is expected to be here.

Crane

I know, but if he intends to be anything more than a VIP passenger once this sub’s on mission status, I WON’T be her captain.

The Doctor raises an eyebrow.

Hiller

I think your crazy. It’s a great job, great pay and great benefits.

Crane

And a boss that has the annoying habit of peeking over my shoulder and questioning me in front of the crew.

Crane steps up to the door and looks off.

Crane

It’s frustrating. If he’s going to countermand half of my orders then why does he need me?

Hiller

The other half?

The Captain returns his gaze to the Doctor and grins.

Crane

It’s like I’ve always said, Admirals just don’t belong on submarines.

Hiller

This one thinks he does.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

A pair of legs belonging to 32 year old Lt. Kevin Kowalski, crawl from under a console. With tools still in hand he pulls himself up to face Morton.

Morton

Give me some good news Kowalski.

Kowalski

It’s definitely not the hardware at this console, sir. If you consider that good news.

Morton

Actually, no, but it did give us a place to start.

A door at the rear of the Control Room slides open. Crane steps out. He joins Morton and Kowalski.

Morton

Captain, for no apparent reason two of our fuel cells fried taking our primary, long range scanners off line.

Morton turns his attention to Kowalski.

Morton

Let’s see that playback again.

Kowalski presses buttons. Multiple overhead video monitors begin displaying technical data and images.

Kowalski

There it is, sir. For one point two seconds electro magnetic readings go off the scale. Then the fuel cells blew and the scanners went dead.

Kowalski presses more buttons and the images freeze. Crane steps in and scrutinizes the data.

Morton

I’ve got a repair crew replacing the damaged fuel cells right now.

Morton turns to Kowalski.

Morton

Once power is restored, how long does the startup sequence take?

Kowalski

It shut down abruptly so we’ll have to reload the software… About an hour, sir.

Crane steps back and rubs his slightly bloodshot eyes.

Crane

Well, I don’t think we need to stop. Since we’re in clear water on a charted course we can do without the long range scanners for a while.

He looks at Morton.

Crane

Continue at present speed and find out what caused those fuel cells to ‘fry.’

Morton

Aye, sir.

Crane

And Chip, this time, try to give me at least six hours if you can.

Morton

I’ll do my best, sir.

Crane disappears through the exit.

INT. SEAVIEW – NELSON’S QUARTERS

The exhaled smoke from a cigar billows past an ashtray filled to the brim. The fiery end of the cigar plunges into the ashes and with a last puff of smoke, is extinguished.

Fingers grasp a glass filled with ice. It CLINKS as it hits the untidy desk. A golden brown liquid is poured in.

Nelson takes a hefty drink. He sits it down in front of the lady’s picture and gazes at her smile.

Nelson

I wish you could have been with me. The ice shelf was breathtaking.

Nelson guzzles down the last of his drink. He stands and stretches. Then moves over to his bunk and pulls back the covers. He begins to undress.

INT. SEAVIEW – CRANE’S QUARTERS

Crane sits on the edge of his bunk, his head bowed and eyes closed.

Adorning his cabin are several artifacts, ranging from stone tablets to spear points.

He motions the sign of the cross, tucks himself into bed and turns out the light.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

Kowalski leans back in his chair reading a paperback novel. A light accompanied by a chime flashes on his console. Sitting his book down, he begins studying the monitor.

A pleasant voice narrates as the Monitor reads: STARTUP COMPLETE. QUANTUM SONAR PINGING. RESTARTING LONG RANGE SCANNERS.

Kowalski

Alright. It’s about time.

Kowalski leans in, presses buttons then drums his fingers on the console.

A moment later, the monitors come to life displaying a map of the pacific ocean. Colored outlines depict north, central and south America. Kowalski smiles.

Kowalski

Goody. We’re back on the air.

Kowalski’s smile fades and his eyes widen as he glares at the monitor.

A flashing light at the bottom of the map denotes the Seaview’s position and heading. In the sub’s path, stretching the width of the map, is a u-shaped red arc.

Kowalski presses several more buttons. The map redraws and zooms in. The red arc spreads like a wave on a pond.

The Lieutenant swings his chair toward Richter.

Kowalski

Helm, are you picking up anything dead ahead.

Richter

No sir.

Kowalski

You will. Scanners are back on line. Increase your range to maximum.

Kowalski jumps up, trots to the command chair and presses a button. The klaxon sounds. His voice reverberates through the ship.

Kowalski

General quarters, general quarters. Captain Crane, Mister Morton, to the control room please.

Richter

Shock wave ahead, closing fast! Range, sixteen hundred nautical. Speed, seven eight six MPH. Magnitude…off the scale, sir.

Kowalski

Hard to port. Heading two seven zero degrees. Props, all ahead full. Execute.

Richter repeats Kowalski’s commands while quickly pressing buttons. The Control Room crew hangs on as the Seaview banks into it’s turn.

INT. SEAVIEW – CRANE’S QUARTERS

Crane, his shirt half on, holds on to the edge of his bunk until the sub levels. He trots to his desk and presses a button.

Crane

Crane here. What’s going on?

Kowalski

(through speakers)

Captain, there’s a massive shock wave flanking us, sir.

Crane

I’m on my way. Standby to engage the Slipstream.

Kowalski

Aye, sir.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

Kowalski is back at his console pushing buttons. Morton stands behind him studying data on the overhead monitors. Crane enters tucking in his shirt.

Crane

Report.

Morton

A super massive earthquake southwest of Central America created a super massive tsunami. We’ve changed course and are traveling laterally to the leading edge of the shock wave. But even at full prop speed the wave will overtake us in about two minutes.

Crane studies the monitors a moment, then takes the command chair. Pressing a button on his console his voice reverberates through the ship.

Crane

All hands prepare for Slipstream velocity…

Morton moves to Crane’s side. They exchange gazes. Crane turns off the intercom. Nelson steps in and joins them.

Morton

Sir, even at Slipstream we can’t out run this wave. It will hit us long before we reach New Zealand with nowhere to hide in between.

Crane

At least it will buy us some time to look at other options Chip. We can’t just wait here and let it hit us.

Kowalski

One minute thirty seconds to impact.

Nelson

You’re both right gentlemen. We can’t sit here and we can’t out run it either.

Nelson directs his attention to Richter.

Nelson

Helm come about. Steer our bow into the wave.

Wrinkling his brow Crane stiffens and gawks at Nelson.

Crane

Admiral, what if…

Nelson

Captain, we’ve got to punch through it. It’s the only way.

Crane

Sir, we’re still close to Antarctica. We could get washed against the ice shelf with a force even this sub couldn’t withstand.

Nelson

Which is exactly what will happen if we try to outrun it.

Kowalski

Sixty seconds.

Crane ponders for just a moment.

Crane

Helm, carry out the Admiral’s orders. Come about and engage the Slipstream sequence. Stand by for maximum velocity on my mark.

Richter

Aye, sir. Turning to starboard.

EXT. OCEAN

The Seaview slowly turns its glass nose toward what appears to be a disturbance in the water some distance away.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

With total concentration on her console Richter presses several buttons.

Richter

Activating Slipstream sequence.

EXT. OCEAN

The Seaview’s props come to a halt and disappear into the hull. Two large panels retract, each revealing what looks like the nozzle of a jet engine. The ends glow blue.

A faint burnt orange glow encapsulates the sub. As it brightens the sea is pushed away from the hull. A thin force field now separates the Seaview from the ocean.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

A light flashes on Richter’s console. She looks at Crane.

Richter

Slipstream engaged. Plasma-Jets are hot, Captain.

Crane

Time Mr. Kowalski?

Kowalski

Twelve seconds, sir.

Crane presses a button on the arm of his chair. His voice reverberates throughout the ship.

Crane

All hands, brace for impact. Mr. Kowalski, countdown from five. Helm ten degrees up plane and get ready to press that button.

Richter positions her finger.

Richter

Aye, sir.

Kowalski

Five, four…

EXT. OCEAN

The Seaview’s bow tilts upward as the huge wave closes in. Mud and debris collected from the sea floor churn at it’s edge like a giant sideways tornado.

INT. SEAVIEW – CONTROL ROOM

Kowalski is focused his console. Everyone else stares through the glass nose at the maelstrom of churning water racing toward them.

Kowalski

…three, two, one.

Crane

Engage Slipstream.

Kowalski

…contact!

****!!! Don’t miss the next exciting Act !!!****