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scifi_rewatchThis has the feel of a strong, transitioning episode. Without even going into any of the plot, let’s look at it’s placement in the series. The retrieval squad, which was the big reason why half of the Moya crew split off onto Talyn anyway, was destroyed back in “Relativity.” Skipping past the Moya episodes, the Talyn crew gets a little bit of a kooky respite from drama with their last hour, “Meltdown.” Now it’s time to reunite with the Moya guys. It wouldn’t do to simply have everyone…reunite without a significant development to drive the latter third of the season.
If you need any more hints about the significance of this episode, well, it’s part one of two. :P Big story ideas take more time than usual. Also, like most “Farscape” multi-parts, it has a complicated name. The duology has its own title, “Infinite Possibilities.” This refers to one of the biggest themes of the show, about how the variety of choices in life and science can lead to different realities. Our biggest indicator of that right now is that we have two John Chrichtons on two different paths—Moya John is driving his crew mates to distraction and Talyn John is canoodling with Aeryn. :P Also, the choices we make, say back in season one, might have unforeseen consequences down the line, heh.
And then there’s part one’s title, “Daedalus demands.” Daedalus is a man from ancient Greek mythology. He is imprisoned in a labyrinth and he makes some wings out of wax to fly home. He “demands,” in a manner of speaking, to his son that when he puts on his wings, he doesn’t fly too close to the sun. Here’s how I see this metaphor, which is played out, to be slightly spoilery, by a returning character in the episode. The Ancients gave John the wormhole knowledge, aka wings, that he might need to ultimately return home. But they locked it up so that John would have to slowly tease it out, rather than moving too quickly and “flying too close to the sun.” Wormhole knowledge be dangerous, yo. This is also our first episode where we talk about them as more than just transport—they can be weapons! :0
I’m pretty sure, when this episode first aired, that I was out of town this week. Made tuning in for part two the next week a bit confusing, hee.
Episode summary is here, courtesy of the John and Aeryn Fansite.
John, of course, is canoodling with Aeryn, but he’s also following an internal beacon in his head, which leads him to a wormhole/Earth photo mirage and alien Jack entering the building. He’s worried that John has betrayed them, and they do a little bit of a mind meld thing to get up to speed. The Ancients indeed found a welcoming home, but on their way there, they came across an oily alien flying John’s module into a wormhole! What’s more, it’s equipped with a phase stabilizer, which completely bewilders John. What the frell? Jack wants to know which possibly hostile species has had access to John’s data, and before our human can go into Scorpy territory, Harvey pulls him aside into a bumper car memory to divert his attention to another season one character, good ol’ Furlow. After all, Scorpy couldn’t build a phase stabilizer if John couldn’t, and who knows how Jack would take that complicated piece of information about neural chips and the like. He might take it out on Aeryn! :P It’s enough to direct Jack’s attention to Furlow, and the crew hightails to her planet, Dam-Ba-Da. Crais and Talyn are blinded during a shoot out with the oily aliens, and exit to recuperate with Stark. John, Aeryn and Jack rather easily fight their way into Furlow’s compound where she’s tied up. Apparently she hired the oily aliens, called Charrids, as security, but when the wormhole tech showed promise, they turned on her. They’re working with the Scarrans! They also conducted a brutal genocide against Hynerians, which leads Rygel to torture their hostage to death. Before he dies, the Charrid lets loose that a Scarran dreadnaught is on its way. Jack wants to destroy the technology, much to Furlow’s consternation, and then lo and behold, it’s discovered that the Scarrans hacked into her computer and have all her intel anyway. Plan B becomes destroying the dreadnaught. John can do so by unlocking the wormhole tech in John's mind…but before John allows Jack in, he comes clean about Harvey’s presence. The two of them work to remove the stubborn clone, via a rollercoaster ride. Outside, Rygel is seriously wounded in battle while Aeryn waits anxiously for John to wake up…but it’s not John after all; it’s Harvey! Tearfully, Aeryn takes out Winona and brings it to his temple.
A big hearty hurrah to Magda Szubanski for reprising her role as Furlow! She was around for only one episode, and that was years ago, but she picks up as if she’s been running wormhole tests this whole time. :P Technically, John handed over his data during a bind in “Until the Blood Runs Clear,” which was before he even met the Ancients. But Furlow’s a talented mechanic, and John’s schematics were apparently enough to get her going. Imagine if Scorpy had gotten a hold of her…apparently she’s like Anakin, existing so much on the fringes of outer space that the Jedi Masters can’t pick up on his force signal. :P Anywho. From the first time I watched this, I loved the continuity of bringing this character back; made the over-arching story and worldbuilding feel all the more real. I also really like Furlow as a character…not in the “I wanna be her best friend” sort of way, but in that she’s intriguing. She’s kind of on the Talyn crew’s side…or is she? She has a mercenary agenda, but she’s not a violent ideologue. OK, so we can’t really trust her, but damn is she funny…and sneaky. :P Talk about some nice chemistry with Ben Browder. But she sure doesn’t seem too put out by the Scarrans hacking into her computer, did she? Hmmm. She’s freaked out by Jack’s true alien form, which is intriguing on it’s own. Does she know something about the Ancients, who by the way, appear different than they did back in “A Human Reaction”? :P She plays along with Jack’s instructions, but she doesn’t appear to be too happy about it; definitely interferes with her personal goals. In a Rygel-like move, she tries to take John aside to talk alternatives that don’t involve destroying her data. And she certainly has something on him, because she’s much closer to navigating wormholes than he is. But we all know that John is a good boy. :P Maybe a little rough around the edges, but a do-gooder all the same.
But speaking of the bad boy himself, our favorite Hynerian was on quite the ride today. The Scaper Chronicles posited, and I think they have a point, that the Charrid genocide against the Hynerians was basically inserted into the episode to give Rygel something to do. I rather resented Rygel’s whole speech about eating children and millions dying to basically be throw-away talk. This isn’t a conflict that will be explored in any depth; it’s merely a plot point to explain why Rygel would torture someone to death. Couldn’t think of any other way to give that dreadnaught info to us, I suppose. Conversely, I do like that the Scarrans have allies out there; makes them as a threat seem more real. But I’m not thrilled with Rygel’s behavior. I disagree with the Scaper Chronicles here, who see him as a “badass.” Unsurprising to me, whenever fans tout out the word “badass,” I’m pretty likely to not like what’s going on. Hurting and killing people out of vengeance is never anything I’m going to condone. It’s just perpetuating a cycle of hate and abuse. I kind of wonder if the show was in agreement with me here, or at least Aeryn was. She didn’t seem too impressed with Rygel killing a tied up, unarmed hostage. She’d rather the fight be taken out to the battlefield, where at least the stakes are more even-handed. And Rygel seemed to enjoy himself just fine out there, heh. Until he got seriously wounded…perhaps the show telling us that vengeance doesn’t always lead to victory? Sometimes you reap what you sow? That being said, Rygel stopped being a puppet to me a long time ago; my stomach clenched up quite a bit at that wound. And to think, Aeryn might not get to him in time because of the Harvey thing! Stakes run high right before the screen flashes “to be continued.” :P
Just briefly touching upon Crais and Stark, because there’s not much to be said. Crais, understandably, is at first distrusting of Jack, who after all appears on Talyn with no warning. The Scaper Chronicles podcasters wondered if Stark knew about the Charrids, as he's so well traveled, but that’s never confirmed or denied. The good captain intends to storm the compound with John and Aeryn, but when Talyn is blinded in an attack, so is he. It’s kind of part of the ongoing theme of “Farscape” that the hand of friendship isn’t such a great thing. :P Poor Crais is victimized by it constantly. Stark has to take him back to Talyn, I guess since his crazy mutiny in “Meltdown” makes him more knowledgeable about the ship than Rygel. Things from there pretty much devolve into goofy, almost slapstick dialogue and sick Talyn acting like sullen teenager Talyn, hee. He’s supposed to be healing in the dark side of the planet, being no match for a Scarran dreadnaught, which is bigger than a Peacekeeper command carrier. So far, Crais remains blind, and we exit the B plot with what seems like an opaque threat about the docking control…are enemies afoot? Tayn’s still blind, too! Minor nitpick about Crais’s condition—shouldn’t he still have been wearing his goggles during the solar flares? Just because he’s blind doesn’t mean he can’t do more damage to his eyes. Oy.
The Scaper Chronicles podcasters, particularly the newbies, remain a tiny bit conflicted about the nature of Harvey. Is he a clone or is he part of John himself? I feel like I’ve solidified my opinion of Harvey, which I think I’ve mentioned in recaps before—he is a clone who has decided to take on parts of John’s personality. He’s definitely an outside agent, and he’s definitely still working for Scorpius. That’s why he didn’t want Jack to find out about him; because he wants Scorpius to succeed. He also wants John to survive, so that any new intel could be useful to his creator. (Interesting juxtaposition between the Johns on their parallel paths—Moya Harvey wanted D’argo to see him last episode, because he was part of the solution of getting off of LoMa alive. But Talyn John didn’t want Jack to see him because of what I’ve stated above.) It’s perhaps worth noting that Ancient!Jack picked Talyn John rather than Moya John to track down…maybe because TJ is more in control of his emotions? Or maybe the Ancient is just lazy and aimed for the closest one. :P The podcasters are thrilled to have “Jack” back…I’m not so sure. I love that we get Kent McCord back, but he’s not Jack Chrichton, not here. He’s not playing John’s real father this hour, though he’s trying to act like a mentor. It’s just squicky to me to deny that he’s a completely unrelated alien. Perhaps made worse by his decision in this episode. He’s going to blow up a dreadnaught, killing scores of Scarrans, even when the other Ancients would forbid it? Who is this guy? It’s like “Farscape” is teasing at character development, and even moral questions, that it doesn’t really have time to answer. (Well, the moral questions might continue in upcoming episodes /zips lips) In the meantime, we have to focus on John and Harvey at a carnival, lol. And I’m not saying that ironically; those scenes added the perfect, kinetic energy to the John/Harvey dilemma in this episode. Clever place to hide from Jack, in a minor noisy moment, possibly from John’s childhood. Looks like it was meant to take place at Coney Island, though if the roller coaster is from the same time frame, we know from the footage that we’re in Sydney, near the harbor bridge. :p The wiki contains some interesting trivia about those scenes, like how the director chose the setting to be “spectacular,” and how Ben and Wayne were among the last people to ride that roller coaster before it was dismantled and moved to Queensland. Within the context of the story, John, when trying to drop Harvey to his doom, repeated the “to everything there is a season” liturgy, which is what Harvey himself tried to use in order to kill John in “Season of Death.” And not to be too morbid, but I appreciate that John paid a second of lip service to Zhaan, a reminder of her sacrifice, which was indirectly tied to that episode.
But as enticing as the John/Harvey relationship might be, we’d better end on a shipper note. :P John is apparently teaching Aeryn to speak English, a concept we, as viewers, might not think about a lot, because of course Claudia Black speaks English all the time. :P But within the context of the show, talk about romance. Certainly seems like a sign that they are trying to get to know each other better…and, as John and Aeryn discuss later, she’ll probably be returning to Earth with him! Squee! John is looking for major answers from the Ancients, and he still resents all of the trouble they put him through. Obviously, they don’t know that he knows about the wormhole knowledge, thanks to being tortured by Scorpius, but our human shares that intel today. It’s likely very telling that before he does so, he looks back towards his lady love. Aeryn is obviously his moral support in this situation. It’s a nice, subtle but powerful side to their relationship. Less subtle perhaps—their final kiss before John “goes under,” as filmed from several different angles. Show wanted to make sure that we got the picture. :P Also, John hands Winona over to her, which is rife with symbolism, both sexual, heh heh, and also about her protecting him, should the worst happen. And sure enough, when John wakes up, it seems like Harvey has won. :/ This appears to be Aeryn’s most personally emotional moment in the episode, where she’s faced with the conundrum of killing her lover with his own gun. Powerful stuff. Also, thanks to Karen from the Scaper Chronicles for reminding me, but first Aeryn attempted to give John mouth to mouth—which is something that she learned from him in “The Flax.” Pretty cool! Am loving all of the continuity this episode. Yup, makes everything seem more real.
Favorite Crichtonism: Harvey - kiss my medulla oblongata.
Favorite Quotes:
*learning English! Am thinking that these two words were intentional*
John: G-u-n.
Aeryn: Gun!
John: Gun! Do the next one.
Aeryn: S-u-n - Sun.
John: Sun.
*John’s got a score to settle*
Aeryn: All right, so let's say it is - this alien who takes the form of your father. Why would they come looking for you now?
John: I have no idea. I thought the Ancients were done with me.
Aeryn: Well why - don't you - just ignore it? Why do you want to look for them?
John: 'Cos I'm not done with them.
*quite the welcome :P*
Jack/Ancient: I'm here.
Crais: *alarmed, wants Talyn to defend himself* Talyn-!
John: Crais! No - I know this guy.
Jack/Ancient: And I thought I knew you. I may have been wrong. If I was - I may have to kill you.
*mind meld time!*
John: What the heck is this?
Jack/Ancient: Our last encounter left a residual link between our minds. I summonsed you with it.
John: Right. Got it. Make your point.
Jack/Ancient: My race was looking for a world to inhabit.
John: Yeah I know, but Earth didn't work for ya. So I can't help you there.
Jack/Ancient: We found a world, perfectly suited to us. The Ancients are there now.
John: Well congratulations. What can I do for you then?
Jack/Ancient: On our travel to the new world, we saw this -- your module - being flown though an unstable wormhole. Piloted by this creature.
John: What-? Who the hell is that?
Jack/Ancient: You tell me.
John: No idea. Never seen one before. When was this?
Jack/Ancient: A third of a cycle ago.
John: Well - my module was safe aboard Moya a third of a cycle ago.
Jack/Ancient: Are you saying this is a duplication?
John: I'm saying I don't know anything at all about it. *looks at device mounted to module exterior* What's that device?
Jack/Ancient: Phase stabilizer. Allows travel through any wormhole. Technology only a few could duplicate. Did you teach this creature to build it?
John: How would I do that when *I* don't know how to build it?
Jack/Ancient: Are you speaking the truth?
John: Jack - you're a mind-reading alien - like my dad. Don't you know when I'm speaking the truth?
Jack/Ancient: I can only penetrate your mind this deep.
John: Bummer.
Jack/Ancient: We gave you a gift. You misused it.
John: *bitter* What gift?
Jack/Ancient: If you didn't build that stabilizer, who did?
John: I dunno.
*Harvey bumps John into a distant memory, and plays the Aeryn card*
Harvey: Sorry - but I need your attention! And we only have a few moments! This is a fascinating place in your memory - and hard to find!
John: What do you want?
Harvey: Discretion! That false father image will terminate us both if he learns of my existence! There's no reason he should --Scorpius didn't copy your module!
John: How do you know?
Harvey: Tell me this John - could you rebuild a module from memory? Huh?
John: Probably not.
Harvey: Neither could Scorpius! All he knows - is what my neural chip absorbed from you!
John: So who did it?
Harvey: Who else knows of your wormhole search? Who has both - access to your module - and the expertise to replicate it? Hm?
John: Furlow.
Harvey: El-e-mentary!
John: Either that or you're coverin' your ass!
Harvey: Why give Jack - irrelevant information which may only provoke him into killing us ALL! Aeryn included!
John: Why would he kill Aeryn?
Harvey: Gamble with her life if you want. Tell him everything! But don't say you weren't warned!
*the Charrids are a serious threat*
Rygel: It was a Charrid, Stark! A frelling Charrid!
Stark: You're familiar with that species?
Rygel: Oh a 1000 cycles ago the Charrids invaded Hynerian space. They killed a billion of my people! Ate a million of our young.
Stark: I'm sorry - I didn't know.
Rygel: We finally repelled them with suicide attacks. Wave after wave after wave -- more death than even you could fathom - until we drove them off!
Stark: But if they had wormholes they could come back and-
Rygel: And attack us without warning and disappear before we could retaliate? We have no defense against that! *shudders* OH-H-H-H-H...
Stark: Quiet - I know a Delvian chant that is very calming in times of stress. Vas blu imishkith lume'trell-ahhh... Say it with me! Vas blu imishkith lume'trell- Vas blu imishkith lume'trell...
Rygel: Stop it you lunatic! Get it through what's left of that head of yours that THIS - IS - SERIOUS!
Crais: *entering* More serious than you can imagine. Unconfirmed intelligence reports suggest an alliance - between the Charrids - and the Scarrans.
*Jack brings us up to speed on the Ancients*
John: Lay it on me Jack. Why are you so afraid of a Halloween mask in a tiny module?
Jack/Ancient: Because they were on a course similar to ours which may have led them right to the new home of the Ancients.
John: All right I understand you're concerned about your privacy. But you guys are god-like aliens with the power of wormholes.
Jack/Ancient: We're a dyin' race John. The voyage made us weaker. We may not be able to defend against a hostile species. That's why I stayed behind. To make sure no one could find them.
John: You missed the boat?
Jack/Ancient: I volunteered.
John: But you can catch up?
Jack/Ancient: Unlikely.
*some flirtation, and a serious offer on the table*
John: So you think we really need all this stuff?
Aeryn: I hope not, but we don't know what we're going to find.
John: Yeah. Sorry to screw up your life again.
Aeryn: Yeah as long as you know it's all your fault.
John: Me and my damn wormholes.
Aeryn: Not all wormholes are bad.
John: Nooo... But ah - if I hadn't'a been huntin' wormholes we never would have run into Furlow or the Ancients.
Aeryn: If you hadn't fallen into a wormhole, you never would have met-
John: Rygel!
Aeryn: Furlow, I would think, is a better match for you. You could pool your knowledge and chase wormholes all you want.
John: Furlow! Yeah - she's sexy! She's the girl I wanna take home and meet the folks. What? You didn't think I planned on goin' home alone didja?
Aeryn: I haven't been thinking about it.
John: I wouldn't -- want to do that. To go back alone.
Aeryn: I wouldn't want you to.
John: We should talk about this.
Aeryn: Some other time?
John: Yeah.
*John’s perception during battle*
John: MAYBE IT'S JUST A COUPLE O' GUYS! *dozens of Charrids appear at the ridge* Oo-kay - maybe not.
*oh Talyn…even when you’re trying to be helpful, you’re a sullen teen :P*
Crais: TALYN! STAY IN SHADOW! DON'T EXPOSE YOUR SENSES TO THE INTENSITY OF THE SOLAR FLARE! *to John and Aeryn* HE KNOWS WE'RE IN TROUBLE AND HE'S COMING BACK TO HELP US!
Aeryn: WELL TELL HIM TO STOP!
Crais: HE REFUSES!
*Stark “helping” blinded Crais onto the transport pod*
Stark: Si fi-eshrava heerma ekun-ziek! Si fi-eshrava heerma ekun-ziek! Si fi-eshrava heerma ekun-ziek!
Crais: He said help me you idiot! Not chant me over to the other side!
*moving right past the pleasantries with Furlow :P*
Furlow: Well, well, well. If it isn't my favorite flyboy. Just couldn't stay away from me. Huh?
John: What the hell happened to you?
Furlow: You know, I'd be happy to tell ya all about it if you'd just CUT ME THE FRELL DOWN!
*hostage interrogation isn’t exactly successful*
Aeryn: How many troops on the planet?
Zylar: Bring any sisters? You won't be enough to pleasure all of us.
Aeryn: *knocks him down* HOW MANY?
John: Why grandma - what big teeth you have.
Zylar: We'll feast on you tonight and tomorrow - all your families!
John: Yeah and you can have our pets for breakfast. *Aeryn lifts device off of Zylar* Communicator?
Aeryn: I think so. Might be able to listen in. How many ways into this place Furlow?
Furlow: Except for the front door? None. All of the approaches are booby-trapped and some of the automatic guns are still working.
Aeryn: Some?
Furlow: Prob'ly.
Aeryn: I'll check the perimeter.
John: That's a good idea. Do me a favor? Take Smiley here and stash him somewhere on your way out.
Zylar: You fear me!
John: No - you just smell.
Furlow: Toodle-oo!
*what Furlow’s been up to all this time*
John: What the hell is this?
Furlow: What d'ya think? A truly fine copy of your module. Got a nice detailed scan last time you were here.
John: Yeah, when you ripped off all my data.
Furlow: Y'know you're - gonna have to let that go Johnny. Point is - I flew it through a wormhole. 4 times. And not just a wormhole - a proto-wormhole. Unstable as all flitz - didn't even muss m' hair.
John: How long have the Charrids been here?
Furlow: I hired 'em. For security. They even did the first test flights. Then - a couple o' solar days ago, the blotchers double-crossed me. Killed all my techs. Tried torture the secret outta me. Get the passwords to my computers. But ah - I'm tougher than they thought.
*Rygel and Stark fight over positions*
Crais: (urgently) Aeryn - my link with Talyn is gone! He's blinded and panicked! I must find him and board him quickly!
Aeryn: All right. Stark, send in Rygel and Jack - you try and take Crais back to Talyn.
Rygel: Ah! Ah - w-wait a microt - I'll fly Crais back. We get Talyn working - we can kill more Charrids quicker.
Crais: Nononono! Stark knows Talyn! He can help calm him down!
Stark: *leaning close to Crais* Let me be your eye.
Rygel: Perfect! The half-blind leading the blind.
Aeryn: No, he's right Rygel. Get in here.
Stark: She likes me more than she likes you.
*Furlow is enticed to play ball*
Furlow: Hands off the merchandise there - Jack.
Jack/Ancient: Give me the tool so I can open this up.
Furlow: Give me one reason why I oughta let ya.
Aeryn: Can I give you two? We just saved your life -and this gun.
Furlow: Fair enough.
*J/A is still following some sexy times :P*
Furlow: Right. Well. He can have the technology - if - he can afford it.
Aeryn: *to John* I think we should tie her back up.
John: Don't tempt me.
Aeryn: No I said tie her - back up.
*being a victim doesn’t automatically make you pure-hearted. Rygel’s probably the best example of that*
Zylar: A Hynerian. Good timing. I'm hungry. Pity you're so aged. You won't be so tasty. Don't glare at me! I'm not impressed. You think a Hynerian could ever frighten me?
Rygel: Oh! I'm not here to frighten you. Nonononono.
Zylar: Then what? To question me? Plainly you are unaware of our superior resistance to pain!
Rygel: Actually I do know something about Charrid physiology. Just as I know something about your weaponry. *picking up object* This ractor, for instance, contains neural circuits that inflict 10 times the normal pain. Designed to be effective even against your own kind. A very unpleasant death.
Zylar: You don't dare kill me!
Rygel: Don't I?
Zylar: The others want me alive!
Rygel: Yes. Well plainly you're unaware of one more fact - I don't give a garantas brax what the others want!
*Furlow is wholly mercenary*
Jack/Ancient: What have you done? Who else has this knowledge?
Furlow: Nobody got it from me. And they won't. Unless of course - they can meet my price.
Jack/Ancient: You'd sell this to anyone?
Furlow: Excuse me? Is that any of your business?
Jack/Ancient: Yes! You have no idea what this can do!
Furlow: Sure I do. That's how I know it'll make me rich.
*Aeryn comes across Rygel and a whole new set of problems*
Aeryn: RYGEL? What have you done?
Rygel: Interrogated. I thought he'd last much longer than that. He did tell me that there is a Scarran Dreadnought heading for this planet. It'll arrive within 6 arns.
*Aeryn redirects Rygel’s energy*
Furlow: Can this ship of yours stand up to a Scarran Dreadnought?
Aeryn: Not a chance. Even if he could see, it's about twice the size of a Command Carrier.
Rygel: We have to do something!
Aeryn: We will. Come on.
Rygel: Bu-uh-uh-uh - Where are we going?
Aeryn: You like killing Charrids? Now's your chance.
*Furlow is strangely unaffected by dager…*
John: This doesn't worry you?
Furlow: Nah. Even if they do get in a lucky hit and breach a wall the booby-traps'll get 'em before they get in.
*perhaps Stark isn’t the best companion for Crais after all :P*
Crais: What can you see?
Stark: Damage! Damage! Damage!
Crais: Whatever would I do without your verbal gifts?
Stark: Oh you want more words? Well the conduits are damaged. Bulkheads damaged. External sensors damaged too! There is nothing that is not damaged!
Crais: Least of all YOU!
Stark: *I* can see!
Crais: If only you could think!
*Aeryn’s idea of bravery*
Rygel: What's this?
Aeryn: It's an automated gun turret.
Rygel: Well it doesn't look like it's working.
Aeryn: Well - the targeting system's gone, but everything else is still intact. You can operate it manually.
Rygel: I can?
Aeryn: Yeah. That's where you reload. This is aim. And this is fire. Now if you can't actually hit anything - just make sure you force the Charrids to keep well away from us.
Rygel: Uh- where will you be?
Aeryn: I'll be somewhere else.
Rygel: Uh - we work better as a team!
Aeryn: Well you didn't need any help when you were knifing the Charrid.
Rygel: This is different! I'm unprotected here! What happens if they fire in a mortar shell?
Aeryn: Well that's simple - you'll die. So keep them back.
Rygel: You keep them back! You're the artillery expert!
Aeryn: Tell me something Rygel. How many Hynerians perished in the suicide attacks when they repelled the Charrids?
Rygel: Millions upon millions.
Aeryn: Any of them volunteer or were they all forced?
Rygel: Why?
Aeryn: I'm just curious to know whether sacrifice and bravery are Hynerian concepts.
Rygel: Show me how this works again.
Aeryn: That's your reload - that's your aim - and this is your fire. Good-bye.
*Jack unveils his true self to get Furlow in line*
Jack/Ancient: You still don't understand how dangerous this technology can be. A wormhole isn't just a shortcut through space. It can be turned into a weapon of incredible destruction.
John: And we can't let the Scarrans have that kind of power.
Furlow: Okay. So we ah - turn around and sell it to the Peacekeepers. Maybe the Nebari too. Balance of power and we - clean up!
Jack/Ancient: The potential for disaster is too great. The danger is clear.
Furlow: It isn't clear to me. *points gun at him* You know, I think - all this high-minded talk is a pile of dren. And you're just tryin' t'take out a competitor.
Jack/Ancient: I speak the truth.
Furlow: Oh yeah? And why should I believe you? Where do you get all this cosmic knowledge? Who are you to tell me what I should do? *Jack transforms into his true form* What the frell-? Who are you?
Jack/Ancient: Someone who understands the risks of power. Do you, Furlow? Do you understand the future you're about to create? Are you willing to see entire planets, entire civilizations wiped out? Put your weapon down. *a pregnant pause later* Put it down - now. *takes gun from her* Aeryn - you got explosives in your pack?
Aeryn: Yes.
Jack/Ancient: Set them.
Furlow: *to John* He ah - that alien? Why didn't ya tell me?
John: I think I did.
Furlow: Fair enough.
*Furlow attempts a secret deal with John, and the stakes on the table get worse*
Furlow: You know this - this really isn't necessary. We could uh -- just beat it before the Dreadnought gets here. You, me -- in the module. Down the wormhole. Sell the technology. Uh - only to uh - peaceful races of course.
John: And what about the others?
Furlow: Well same thing happens whether we're here or not. Listen - the Scarrans aren't gonna leave anybody breathing. No reason for all of us to die.
John: What's with your computer?
Furlow: Somebody's tapped in. They're stealing all my data.
Jack/Ancient: Shut it down!
Furlow: I can't. They've got full control.
Aeryn: Stand clear. Now! *John and Aeryn shoot the computer down*
Jack/Ancient: Who tapped in?
Furlow: A remote download. Overrode all my pass codes. Charrids are too stupid for that. Had to be Scarrans.
John: How much data did they get?
Furlow: Oh enough t'make their own phase stabilizer. But I guarantee - the Dreadnought'll still get here. They'll wanna make sure that nobody else gets the prototype. And - what's in here. *taps noggin* And ah - *to John* - you know that thing we were talkin' about earlier? It's lookin' even better now.
*Jack wants to destroy the dreadnaught, which means he must come clean about the wormhole knowledge in John’s head*
John: You got a plan?
Jack/Ancient: Yes. Something the Ancients wouldn't permit. Their sanctuary's under threat. I believe we can convert this phase stabilizer to another function.
John: We?
Jack/Ancient: Yes. Your knowledge of this level of technology is greater than mine. Alone, I'd never be able to complete the modifications in time.
John: Except I don't know how this thing works much less how to modify it - I won't be much help.
Jack/Ancient: Yes you will. During our last encounter, the Ancients embedded something else deep within your memory. The equations to create wormholes. It wasn't meant to be accessed consciously, but merely to guide you.
John: Guide me? Why not just give it to me?
Jack/Ancient: Because it was important that you develop it on your own. Or else not at all.
John: *bitter* Is that some sorta rule? Only hints otherwise it's cheating?
Jack/Ancient: There were Ancients who didn't want to give you anything. This knowledge is very dangerous.
John: Yeah I know - so give me the useless consolation prize.
Jack/Ancient: No not useless. It was meant to keep you on the right path. Possibly subtracting years from your research.
John: Possibly. Well thanks for the help.
Jack/Ancient: John, this knowledge may save all of our lives here. I can unlock it!
John: And what will your friends think about that?
Jack/Ancient: They'd stop me if they could. If they knew what you and I were creating here, they'd kill us both.
John: That's - terrific - Jack, I already got half the universe after me - I really want the Ancients on my ass as well.
Jack/Ancient: We don't have a choice. That Dreadnought is less than 5 hours from here. I need your expert help! If you're unwilling to give it then-
John: I didn't say - I wouldn't help.
Jack/Ancient: Good.
*John comes clean about Scorpius and Harvey*
John: Jack... I have a - confession to make. I knew about the stuff you guys put in my head.
Jack/Ancient: How?
John: Guy named Scorpius. He discovered the info was there and he put a neural chip in my head to extract the information.
Jack/Ancient: And he succeeded?
John: Well the chip's gone so I'd say yes - more or less.
Jack/Ancient: Why didn't you tell me?
John: *looks to Aeryn, who comes to stand near him in support* All right - there's more. When the chip was pulled, a - chunk - of Scorpius' personality was left behind.
Jack/Ancient: A neural clone?
John: You could call it that. I call it ah -- Harvey.
Jack/Ancient: Then we can't unlock the information in front of this clone.
John: So what do you wanna do?
Jack/Ancient: My mental energy is limited. But I believe between the two of us - we can drive this clone from your mind.
John: *hopeful* Could you say that with a little more confidence?
*Furlow’s way of getting rid of Charrids that have crossed Rygel’s line and come into the bunker*
Furlow: What the frell is-? *lobs explosive with her space wrench* WE'RE CLOSED, YA THODDOES!
*Aeryn gets the most heart-wrenching job, in the case of the Harvey extraction going wrong*
John: I don't see a lot of choice. Harvey's gotta go. (he trails Aeryn who walks over to talk to the Ancient)
Aeryn: And you can do this Jack?
Jack/Ancient: I can infuse him with all the mental capacity that I possess.
Aeryn: Which you admit is limited.
John: We take what we can get.
Aeryn: Is there some way to transfer energy? Can you - link his mind with mine?
Jack/Ancient: No. Aeryn Sun, John already has your strength.
John: And someone's gotta stay on the outside in case everything goes pear-shaped.
Aeryn: I know what to do.
*possible foreshadowing…Furlough remains a shifty character*
Furlow: Here's your partanium. Trouble is - I don't know if I can scrape up a protection suit.
Jack/Ancient: I don't need one.
Furlow: No kiddin'? *to John* Imagine if he was on our side.
John: He is on our side.
Furlow: Uh-huh.
*Crais attempts manual override, as something might be going wrong on Talyn…*
Crais: Talyn! I am taking control! I will keep you stable so you can calm down and heal your senses!
Stark: It's working I think- It's working, working!
Crais: Is the navigation console responding?
Stark: No - but I'm feeling better.
Crais: Something doesn't feel right. Must be the - must be the docking control...
Stark: It looks all right.
Crais: Try the comms again! Boost Talyn’s signal to maximum!
*Rygel might be an enthusiastic soldier*
Rygel: About time!
Aeryn: You let two through!
Rygel: Two? But I turned at least 12 of them to sand stains! Ah-ha! Here comes number 13! *shoots gun gleefully; misses target, but he retreats* Aw - miscalculated the windage. Next time I'll get him! I ever tell you about Rygel IX?
Aeryn: No.
Rygel: Single-handedly led the climactic charge at the Battle of Katreen.
Aeryn: He was a hero?
Rygel: He was a moron! Dominar’s are far too valuable for combat, much less front lines! But you know, strangely enough - I think I understand why he did it! Ah! Ha ha! Second try! *he shoots, and Charrid and his vehicle go flying in different directions* Taste this! Bloodsucker!
Aeryn: We'll make a soldier out of you yet Rygel.
Rygel: Well don't think I'm gonna make a habit of it!
*both John and Harvey struggle for dominance on the careening roller coaster*
John: Buckle up Scorp! We're goin' for a little riiiide!
Harvey: You don't have to do this John! I-I pose you no threat.
John: Right.
Harvey: I happen to know - that the wormhole knowledge is still inside your brain! But I don't want it!
John: Your better half does.
Harvey: Well he has a copy. But whether he knows how to make use of it - is not my concern! Therefore - there's no reason to get rid of me.
John: Yeah there is.
Harvey: No, it's the truth John - I don't want to overtake you! I'm happy to - COEXIST!
John: I'm not!
Harvey: Oh stop this John! I've helped you countless times! I'VE EVEN SAVED YOUR LIFE!
John: TO SAVE YOURSELF - YOU DON'T GET BROWNIE POINTS FOR THAT SCORP!
Harvey: OOoOOoOOO! BUT I CAN HELP YOU NOW! THAT ALIEN - HE'S USING YOU! AND AFTER YOU'VE DONE HIS DIRTY WORK FOR HIM, HE WILL TERMINATE YOU! FURLOW, RYGEL, STARK, AERYN-
John: DO NOT PLAY THE AERYN CARD SCORP! YOU KILLED HER!
Harvey: AERYN IS ALI-IVE!
John: NOW ZHAAN'S GONE! WHO DO I THANK FOR THAT?
Harvey: OOoOOOOoOoO! STOP THIS JOHN OR WE'LL BOTH DIE!
John: HOW CAN YOU DIE SCORP, WHEN YOU'RE NOT EVEN REAL?
Harvey: OHICANFEELIT! ICANFEELIT! WE'REBOTHGOINGTODIE! WE'REBOTHGOINGTODIE!
John: CAN YOU FEEL IT? WHY SHOULD I CARE?
Harvey: BECAUSE I AM PART OF YOU JOHN!
John: YEAH I KNOW! AND I'M SICK OF IT!
*dangling from the coaster tracks, then falling into a wormhole*
Harvey: (Help me John!
John: Go to hell Scorpy! For everything there is a season. A time to keep, and a time to cast away.
Harvey: *viciously* I warned you!
*Rygel’s final remarks before he’s hit by shrapnel and goes down*
Rygel: That's it! Keep running! Ohh - I'll give you indigestion! Charrid cowards couldn't hit a pregnant lobboth at that-
*…is John dead, too??*
Harvey/John: Officer Sun! What luscious lips. Amongst - *seizes her by throat* - other things. Crichton was a very - lucky man.
Aeryn: *struggling to speak* Where is he?
Harvey/John: Gone. Gambled and lost. How unfortunate you must lose as well.
If you need any more hints about the significance of this episode, well, it’s part one of two. :P Big story ideas take more time than usual. Also, like most “Farscape” multi-parts, it has a complicated name. The duology has its own title, “Infinite Possibilities.” This refers to one of the biggest themes of the show, about how the variety of choices in life and science can lead to different realities. Our biggest indicator of that right now is that we have two John Chrichtons on two different paths—Moya John is driving his crew mates to distraction and Talyn John is canoodling with Aeryn. :P Also, the choices we make, say back in season one, might have unforeseen consequences down the line, heh.
And then there’s part one’s title, “Daedalus demands.” Daedalus is a man from ancient Greek mythology. He is imprisoned in a labyrinth and he makes some wings out of wax to fly home. He “demands,” in a manner of speaking, to his son that when he puts on his wings, he doesn’t fly too close to the sun. Here’s how I see this metaphor, which is played out, to be slightly spoilery, by a returning character in the episode. The Ancients gave John the wormhole knowledge, aka wings, that he might need to ultimately return home. But they locked it up so that John would have to slowly tease it out, rather than moving too quickly and “flying too close to the sun.” Wormhole knowledge be dangerous, yo. This is also our first episode where we talk about them as more than just transport—they can be weapons! :0
I’m pretty sure, when this episode first aired, that I was out of town this week. Made tuning in for part two the next week a bit confusing, hee.
Episode summary is here, courtesy of the John and Aeryn Fansite.
John, of course, is canoodling with Aeryn, but he’s also following an internal beacon in his head, which leads him to a wormhole/Earth photo mirage and alien Jack entering the building. He’s worried that John has betrayed them, and they do a little bit of a mind meld thing to get up to speed. The Ancients indeed found a welcoming home, but on their way there, they came across an oily alien flying John’s module into a wormhole! What’s more, it’s equipped with a phase stabilizer, which completely bewilders John. What the frell? Jack wants to know which possibly hostile species has had access to John’s data, and before our human can go into Scorpy territory, Harvey pulls him aside into a bumper car memory to divert his attention to another season one character, good ol’ Furlow. After all, Scorpy couldn’t build a phase stabilizer if John couldn’t, and who knows how Jack would take that complicated piece of information about neural chips and the like. He might take it out on Aeryn! :P It’s enough to direct Jack’s attention to Furlow, and the crew hightails to her planet, Dam-Ba-Da. Crais and Talyn are blinded during a shoot out with the oily aliens, and exit to recuperate with Stark. John, Aeryn and Jack rather easily fight their way into Furlow’s compound where she’s tied up. Apparently she hired the oily aliens, called Charrids, as security, but when the wormhole tech showed promise, they turned on her. They’re working with the Scarrans! They also conducted a brutal genocide against Hynerians, which leads Rygel to torture their hostage to death. Before he dies, the Charrid lets loose that a Scarran dreadnaught is on its way. Jack wants to destroy the technology, much to Furlow’s consternation, and then lo and behold, it’s discovered that the Scarrans hacked into her computer and have all her intel anyway. Plan B becomes destroying the dreadnaught. John can do so by unlocking the wormhole tech in John's mind…but before John allows Jack in, he comes clean about Harvey’s presence. The two of them work to remove the stubborn clone, via a rollercoaster ride. Outside, Rygel is seriously wounded in battle while Aeryn waits anxiously for John to wake up…but it’s not John after all; it’s Harvey! Tearfully, Aeryn takes out Winona and brings it to his temple.
A big hearty hurrah to Magda Szubanski for reprising her role as Furlow! She was around for only one episode, and that was years ago, but she picks up as if she’s been running wormhole tests this whole time. :P Technically, John handed over his data during a bind in “Until the Blood Runs Clear,” which was before he even met the Ancients. But Furlow’s a talented mechanic, and John’s schematics were apparently enough to get her going. Imagine if Scorpy had gotten a hold of her…apparently she’s like Anakin, existing so much on the fringes of outer space that the Jedi Masters can’t pick up on his force signal. :P Anywho. From the first time I watched this, I loved the continuity of bringing this character back; made the over-arching story and worldbuilding feel all the more real. I also really like Furlow as a character…not in the “I wanna be her best friend” sort of way, but in that she’s intriguing. She’s kind of on the Talyn crew’s side…or is she? She has a mercenary agenda, but she’s not a violent ideologue. OK, so we can’t really trust her, but damn is she funny…and sneaky. :P Talk about some nice chemistry with Ben Browder. But she sure doesn’t seem too put out by the Scarrans hacking into her computer, did she? Hmmm. She’s freaked out by Jack’s true alien form, which is intriguing on it’s own. Does she know something about the Ancients, who by the way, appear different than they did back in “A Human Reaction”? :P She plays along with Jack’s instructions, but she doesn’t appear to be too happy about it; definitely interferes with her personal goals. In a Rygel-like move, she tries to take John aside to talk alternatives that don’t involve destroying her data. And she certainly has something on him, because she’s much closer to navigating wormholes than he is. But we all know that John is a good boy. :P Maybe a little rough around the edges, but a do-gooder all the same.
But speaking of the bad boy himself, our favorite Hynerian was on quite the ride today. The Scaper Chronicles posited, and I think they have a point, that the Charrid genocide against the Hynerians was basically inserted into the episode to give Rygel something to do. I rather resented Rygel’s whole speech about eating children and millions dying to basically be throw-away talk. This isn’t a conflict that will be explored in any depth; it’s merely a plot point to explain why Rygel would torture someone to death. Couldn’t think of any other way to give that dreadnaught info to us, I suppose. Conversely, I do like that the Scarrans have allies out there; makes them as a threat seem more real. But I’m not thrilled with Rygel’s behavior. I disagree with the Scaper Chronicles here, who see him as a “badass.” Unsurprising to me, whenever fans tout out the word “badass,” I’m pretty likely to not like what’s going on. Hurting and killing people out of vengeance is never anything I’m going to condone. It’s just perpetuating a cycle of hate and abuse. I kind of wonder if the show was in agreement with me here, or at least Aeryn was. She didn’t seem too impressed with Rygel killing a tied up, unarmed hostage. She’d rather the fight be taken out to the battlefield, where at least the stakes are more even-handed. And Rygel seemed to enjoy himself just fine out there, heh. Until he got seriously wounded…perhaps the show telling us that vengeance doesn’t always lead to victory? Sometimes you reap what you sow? That being said, Rygel stopped being a puppet to me a long time ago; my stomach clenched up quite a bit at that wound. And to think, Aeryn might not get to him in time because of the Harvey thing! Stakes run high right before the screen flashes “to be continued.” :P
Just briefly touching upon Crais and Stark, because there’s not much to be said. Crais, understandably, is at first distrusting of Jack, who after all appears on Talyn with no warning. The Scaper Chronicles podcasters wondered if Stark knew about the Charrids, as he's so well traveled, but that’s never confirmed or denied. The good captain intends to storm the compound with John and Aeryn, but when Talyn is blinded in an attack, so is he. It’s kind of part of the ongoing theme of “Farscape” that the hand of friendship isn’t such a great thing. :P Poor Crais is victimized by it constantly. Stark has to take him back to Talyn, I guess since his crazy mutiny in “Meltdown” makes him more knowledgeable about the ship than Rygel. Things from there pretty much devolve into goofy, almost slapstick dialogue and sick Talyn acting like sullen teenager Talyn, hee. He’s supposed to be healing in the dark side of the planet, being no match for a Scarran dreadnaught, which is bigger than a Peacekeeper command carrier. So far, Crais remains blind, and we exit the B plot with what seems like an opaque threat about the docking control…are enemies afoot? Tayn’s still blind, too! Minor nitpick about Crais’s condition—shouldn’t he still have been wearing his goggles during the solar flares? Just because he’s blind doesn’t mean he can’t do more damage to his eyes. Oy.
The Scaper Chronicles podcasters, particularly the newbies, remain a tiny bit conflicted about the nature of Harvey. Is he a clone or is he part of John himself? I feel like I’ve solidified my opinion of Harvey, which I think I’ve mentioned in recaps before—he is a clone who has decided to take on parts of John’s personality. He’s definitely an outside agent, and he’s definitely still working for Scorpius. That’s why he didn’t want Jack to find out about him; because he wants Scorpius to succeed. He also wants John to survive, so that any new intel could be useful to his creator. (Interesting juxtaposition between the Johns on their parallel paths—Moya Harvey wanted D’argo to see him last episode, because he was part of the solution of getting off of LoMa alive. But Talyn John didn’t want Jack to see him because of what I’ve stated above.) It’s perhaps worth noting that Ancient!Jack picked Talyn John rather than Moya John to track down…maybe because TJ is more in control of his emotions? Or maybe the Ancient is just lazy and aimed for the closest one. :P The podcasters are thrilled to have “Jack” back…I’m not so sure. I love that we get Kent McCord back, but he’s not Jack Chrichton, not here. He’s not playing John’s real father this hour, though he’s trying to act like a mentor. It’s just squicky to me to deny that he’s a completely unrelated alien. Perhaps made worse by his decision in this episode. He’s going to blow up a dreadnaught, killing scores of Scarrans, even when the other Ancients would forbid it? Who is this guy? It’s like “Farscape” is teasing at character development, and even moral questions, that it doesn’t really have time to answer. (Well, the moral questions might continue in upcoming episodes /zips lips) In the meantime, we have to focus on John and Harvey at a carnival, lol. And I’m not saying that ironically; those scenes added the perfect, kinetic energy to the John/Harvey dilemma in this episode. Clever place to hide from Jack, in a minor noisy moment, possibly from John’s childhood. Looks like it was meant to take place at Coney Island, though if the roller coaster is from the same time frame, we know from the footage that we’re in Sydney, near the harbor bridge. :p The wiki contains some interesting trivia about those scenes, like how the director chose the setting to be “spectacular,” and how Ben and Wayne were among the last people to ride that roller coaster before it was dismantled and moved to Queensland. Within the context of the story, John, when trying to drop Harvey to his doom, repeated the “to everything there is a season” liturgy, which is what Harvey himself tried to use in order to kill John in “Season of Death.” And not to be too morbid, but I appreciate that John paid a second of lip service to Zhaan, a reminder of her sacrifice, which was indirectly tied to that episode.
But as enticing as the John/Harvey relationship might be, we’d better end on a shipper note. :P John is apparently teaching Aeryn to speak English, a concept we, as viewers, might not think about a lot, because of course Claudia Black speaks English all the time. :P But within the context of the show, talk about romance. Certainly seems like a sign that they are trying to get to know each other better…and, as John and Aeryn discuss later, she’ll probably be returning to Earth with him! Squee! John is looking for major answers from the Ancients, and he still resents all of the trouble they put him through. Obviously, they don’t know that he knows about the wormhole knowledge, thanks to being tortured by Scorpius, but our human shares that intel today. It’s likely very telling that before he does so, he looks back towards his lady love. Aeryn is obviously his moral support in this situation. It’s a nice, subtle but powerful side to their relationship. Less subtle perhaps—their final kiss before John “goes under,” as filmed from several different angles. Show wanted to make sure that we got the picture. :P Also, John hands Winona over to her, which is rife with symbolism, both sexual, heh heh, and also about her protecting him, should the worst happen. And sure enough, when John wakes up, it seems like Harvey has won. :/ This appears to be Aeryn’s most personally emotional moment in the episode, where she’s faced with the conundrum of killing her lover with his own gun. Powerful stuff. Also, thanks to Karen from the Scaper Chronicles for reminding me, but first Aeryn attempted to give John mouth to mouth—which is something that she learned from him in “The Flax.” Pretty cool! Am loving all of the continuity this episode. Yup, makes everything seem more real.
Favorite Crichtonism: Harvey - kiss my medulla oblongata.
Favorite Quotes:
*learning English! Am thinking that these two words were intentional*
John: G-u-n.
Aeryn: Gun!
John: Gun! Do the next one.
Aeryn: S-u-n - Sun.
John: Sun.
*John’s got a score to settle*
Aeryn: All right, so let's say it is - this alien who takes the form of your father. Why would they come looking for you now?
John: I have no idea. I thought the Ancients were done with me.
Aeryn: Well why - don't you - just ignore it? Why do you want to look for them?
John: 'Cos I'm not done with them.
*quite the welcome :P*
Jack/Ancient: I'm here.
Crais: *alarmed, wants Talyn to defend himself* Talyn-!
John: Crais! No - I know this guy.
Jack/Ancient: And I thought I knew you. I may have been wrong. If I was - I may have to kill you.
*mind meld time!*
John: What the heck is this?
Jack/Ancient: Our last encounter left a residual link between our minds. I summonsed you with it.
John: Right. Got it. Make your point.
Jack/Ancient: My race was looking for a world to inhabit.
John: Yeah I know, but Earth didn't work for ya. So I can't help you there.
Jack/Ancient: We found a world, perfectly suited to us. The Ancients are there now.
John: Well congratulations. What can I do for you then?
Jack/Ancient: On our travel to the new world, we saw this -- your module - being flown though an unstable wormhole. Piloted by this creature.
John: What-? Who the hell is that?
Jack/Ancient: You tell me.
John: No idea. Never seen one before. When was this?
Jack/Ancient: A third of a cycle ago.
John: Well - my module was safe aboard Moya a third of a cycle ago.
Jack/Ancient: Are you saying this is a duplication?
John: I'm saying I don't know anything at all about it. *looks at device mounted to module exterior* What's that device?
Jack/Ancient: Phase stabilizer. Allows travel through any wormhole. Technology only a few could duplicate. Did you teach this creature to build it?
John: How would I do that when *I* don't know how to build it?
Jack/Ancient: Are you speaking the truth?
John: Jack - you're a mind-reading alien - like my dad. Don't you know when I'm speaking the truth?
Jack/Ancient: I can only penetrate your mind this deep.
John: Bummer.
Jack/Ancient: We gave you a gift. You misused it.
John: *bitter* What gift?
Jack/Ancient: If you didn't build that stabilizer, who did?
John: I dunno.
*Harvey bumps John into a distant memory, and plays the Aeryn card*
Harvey: Sorry - but I need your attention! And we only have a few moments! This is a fascinating place in your memory - and hard to find!
John: What do you want?
Harvey: Discretion! That false father image will terminate us both if he learns of my existence! There's no reason he should --Scorpius didn't copy your module!
John: How do you know?
Harvey: Tell me this John - could you rebuild a module from memory? Huh?
John: Probably not.
Harvey: Neither could Scorpius! All he knows - is what my neural chip absorbed from you!
John: So who did it?
Harvey: Who else knows of your wormhole search? Who has both - access to your module - and the expertise to replicate it? Hm?
John: Furlow.
Harvey: El-e-mentary!
John: Either that or you're coverin' your ass!
Harvey: Why give Jack - irrelevant information which may only provoke him into killing us ALL! Aeryn included!
John: Why would he kill Aeryn?
Harvey: Gamble with her life if you want. Tell him everything! But don't say you weren't warned!
*the Charrids are a serious threat*
Rygel: It was a Charrid, Stark! A frelling Charrid!
Stark: You're familiar with that species?
Rygel: Oh a 1000 cycles ago the Charrids invaded Hynerian space. They killed a billion of my people! Ate a million of our young.
Stark: I'm sorry - I didn't know.
Rygel: We finally repelled them with suicide attacks. Wave after wave after wave -- more death than even you could fathom - until we drove them off!
Stark: But if they had wormholes they could come back and-
Rygel: And attack us without warning and disappear before we could retaliate? We have no defense against that! *shudders* OH-H-H-H-H...
Stark: Quiet - I know a Delvian chant that is very calming in times of stress. Vas blu imishkith lume'trell-ahhh... Say it with me! Vas blu imishkith lume'trell- Vas blu imishkith lume'trell...
Rygel: Stop it you lunatic! Get it through what's left of that head of yours that THIS - IS - SERIOUS!
Crais: *entering* More serious than you can imagine. Unconfirmed intelligence reports suggest an alliance - between the Charrids - and the Scarrans.
*Jack brings us up to speed on the Ancients*
John: Lay it on me Jack. Why are you so afraid of a Halloween mask in a tiny module?
Jack/Ancient: Because they were on a course similar to ours which may have led them right to the new home of the Ancients.
John: All right I understand you're concerned about your privacy. But you guys are god-like aliens with the power of wormholes.
Jack/Ancient: We're a dyin' race John. The voyage made us weaker. We may not be able to defend against a hostile species. That's why I stayed behind. To make sure no one could find them.
John: You missed the boat?
Jack/Ancient: I volunteered.
John: But you can catch up?
Jack/Ancient: Unlikely.
*some flirtation, and a serious offer on the table*
John: So you think we really need all this stuff?
Aeryn: I hope not, but we don't know what we're going to find.
John: Yeah. Sorry to screw up your life again.
Aeryn: Yeah as long as you know it's all your fault.
John: Me and my damn wormholes.
Aeryn: Not all wormholes are bad.
John: Nooo... But ah - if I hadn't'a been huntin' wormholes we never would have run into Furlow or the Ancients.
Aeryn: If you hadn't fallen into a wormhole, you never would have met-
John: Rygel!
Aeryn: Furlow, I would think, is a better match for you. You could pool your knowledge and chase wormholes all you want.
John: Furlow! Yeah - she's sexy! She's the girl I wanna take home and meet the folks. What? You didn't think I planned on goin' home alone didja?
Aeryn: I haven't been thinking about it.
John: I wouldn't -- want to do that. To go back alone.
Aeryn: I wouldn't want you to.
John: We should talk about this.
Aeryn: Some other time?
John: Yeah.
*John’s perception during battle*
John: MAYBE IT'S JUST A COUPLE O' GUYS! *dozens of Charrids appear at the ridge* Oo-kay - maybe not.
*oh Talyn…even when you’re trying to be helpful, you’re a sullen teen :P*
Crais: TALYN! STAY IN SHADOW! DON'T EXPOSE YOUR SENSES TO THE INTENSITY OF THE SOLAR FLARE! *to John and Aeryn* HE KNOWS WE'RE IN TROUBLE AND HE'S COMING BACK TO HELP US!
Aeryn: WELL TELL HIM TO STOP!
Crais: HE REFUSES!
*Stark “helping” blinded Crais onto the transport pod*
Stark: Si fi-eshrava heerma ekun-ziek! Si fi-eshrava heerma ekun-ziek! Si fi-eshrava heerma ekun-ziek!
Crais: He said help me you idiot! Not chant me over to the other side!
*moving right past the pleasantries with Furlow :P*
Furlow: Well, well, well. If it isn't my favorite flyboy. Just couldn't stay away from me. Huh?
John: What the hell happened to you?
Furlow: You know, I'd be happy to tell ya all about it if you'd just CUT ME THE FRELL DOWN!
*hostage interrogation isn’t exactly successful*
Aeryn: How many troops on the planet?
Zylar: Bring any sisters? You won't be enough to pleasure all of us.
Aeryn: *knocks him down* HOW MANY?
John: Why grandma - what big teeth you have.
Zylar: We'll feast on you tonight and tomorrow - all your families!
John: Yeah and you can have our pets for breakfast. *Aeryn lifts device off of Zylar* Communicator?
Aeryn: I think so. Might be able to listen in. How many ways into this place Furlow?
Furlow: Except for the front door? None. All of the approaches are booby-trapped and some of the automatic guns are still working.
Aeryn: Some?
Furlow: Prob'ly.
Aeryn: I'll check the perimeter.
John: That's a good idea. Do me a favor? Take Smiley here and stash him somewhere on your way out.
Zylar: You fear me!
John: No - you just smell.
Furlow: Toodle-oo!
*what Furlow’s been up to all this time*
John: What the hell is this?
Furlow: What d'ya think? A truly fine copy of your module. Got a nice detailed scan last time you were here.
John: Yeah, when you ripped off all my data.
Furlow: Y'know you're - gonna have to let that go Johnny. Point is - I flew it through a wormhole. 4 times. And not just a wormhole - a proto-wormhole. Unstable as all flitz - didn't even muss m' hair.
John: How long have the Charrids been here?
Furlow: I hired 'em. For security. They even did the first test flights. Then - a couple o' solar days ago, the blotchers double-crossed me. Killed all my techs. Tried torture the secret outta me. Get the passwords to my computers. But ah - I'm tougher than they thought.
*Rygel and Stark fight over positions*
Crais: (urgently) Aeryn - my link with Talyn is gone! He's blinded and panicked! I must find him and board him quickly!
Aeryn: All right. Stark, send in Rygel and Jack - you try and take Crais back to Talyn.
Rygel: Ah! Ah - w-wait a microt - I'll fly Crais back. We get Talyn working - we can kill more Charrids quicker.
Crais: Nononono! Stark knows Talyn! He can help calm him down!
Stark: *leaning close to Crais* Let me be your eye.
Rygel: Perfect! The half-blind leading the blind.
Aeryn: No, he's right Rygel. Get in here.
Stark: She likes me more than she likes you.
*Furlow is enticed to play ball*
Furlow: Hands off the merchandise there - Jack.
Jack/Ancient: Give me the tool so I can open this up.
Furlow: Give me one reason why I oughta let ya.
Aeryn: Can I give you two? We just saved your life -and this gun.
Furlow: Fair enough.
*J/A is still following some sexy times :P*
Furlow: Right. Well. He can have the technology - if - he can afford it.
Aeryn: *to John* I think we should tie her back up.
John: Don't tempt me.
Aeryn: No I said tie her - back up.
*being a victim doesn’t automatically make you pure-hearted. Rygel’s probably the best example of that*
Zylar: A Hynerian. Good timing. I'm hungry. Pity you're so aged. You won't be so tasty. Don't glare at me! I'm not impressed. You think a Hynerian could ever frighten me?
Rygel: Oh! I'm not here to frighten you. Nonononono.
Zylar: Then what? To question me? Plainly you are unaware of our superior resistance to pain!
Rygel: Actually I do know something about Charrid physiology. Just as I know something about your weaponry. *picking up object* This ractor, for instance, contains neural circuits that inflict 10 times the normal pain. Designed to be effective even against your own kind. A very unpleasant death.
Zylar: You don't dare kill me!
Rygel: Don't I?
Zylar: The others want me alive!
Rygel: Yes. Well plainly you're unaware of one more fact - I don't give a garantas brax what the others want!
*Furlow is wholly mercenary*
Jack/Ancient: What have you done? Who else has this knowledge?
Furlow: Nobody got it from me. And they won't. Unless of course - they can meet my price.
Jack/Ancient: You'd sell this to anyone?
Furlow: Excuse me? Is that any of your business?
Jack/Ancient: Yes! You have no idea what this can do!
Furlow: Sure I do. That's how I know it'll make me rich.
*Aeryn comes across Rygel and a whole new set of problems*
Aeryn: RYGEL? What have you done?
Rygel: Interrogated. I thought he'd last much longer than that. He did tell me that there is a Scarran Dreadnought heading for this planet. It'll arrive within 6 arns.
*Aeryn redirects Rygel’s energy*
Furlow: Can this ship of yours stand up to a Scarran Dreadnought?
Aeryn: Not a chance. Even if he could see, it's about twice the size of a Command Carrier.
Rygel: We have to do something!
Aeryn: We will. Come on.
Rygel: Bu-uh-uh-uh - Where are we going?
Aeryn: You like killing Charrids? Now's your chance.
*Furlow is strangely unaffected by dager…*
John: This doesn't worry you?
Furlow: Nah. Even if they do get in a lucky hit and breach a wall the booby-traps'll get 'em before they get in.
*perhaps Stark isn’t the best companion for Crais after all :P*
Crais: What can you see?
Stark: Damage! Damage! Damage!
Crais: Whatever would I do without your verbal gifts?
Stark: Oh you want more words? Well the conduits are damaged. Bulkheads damaged. External sensors damaged too! There is nothing that is not damaged!
Crais: Least of all YOU!
Stark: *I* can see!
Crais: If only you could think!
*Aeryn’s idea of bravery*
Rygel: What's this?
Aeryn: It's an automated gun turret.
Rygel: Well it doesn't look like it's working.
Aeryn: Well - the targeting system's gone, but everything else is still intact. You can operate it manually.
Rygel: I can?
Aeryn: Yeah. That's where you reload. This is aim. And this is fire. Now if you can't actually hit anything - just make sure you force the Charrids to keep well away from us.
Rygel: Uh- where will you be?
Aeryn: I'll be somewhere else.
Rygel: Uh - we work better as a team!
Aeryn: Well you didn't need any help when you were knifing the Charrid.
Rygel: This is different! I'm unprotected here! What happens if they fire in a mortar shell?
Aeryn: Well that's simple - you'll die. So keep them back.
Rygel: You keep them back! You're the artillery expert!
Aeryn: Tell me something Rygel. How many Hynerians perished in the suicide attacks when they repelled the Charrids?
Rygel: Millions upon millions.
Aeryn: Any of them volunteer or were they all forced?
Rygel: Why?
Aeryn: I'm just curious to know whether sacrifice and bravery are Hynerian concepts.
Rygel: Show me how this works again.
Aeryn: That's your reload - that's your aim - and this is your fire. Good-bye.
*Jack unveils his true self to get Furlow in line*
Jack/Ancient: You still don't understand how dangerous this technology can be. A wormhole isn't just a shortcut through space. It can be turned into a weapon of incredible destruction.
John: And we can't let the Scarrans have that kind of power.
Furlow: Okay. So we ah - turn around and sell it to the Peacekeepers. Maybe the Nebari too. Balance of power and we - clean up!
Jack/Ancient: The potential for disaster is too great. The danger is clear.
Furlow: It isn't clear to me. *points gun at him* You know, I think - all this high-minded talk is a pile of dren. And you're just tryin' t'take out a competitor.
Jack/Ancient: I speak the truth.
Furlow: Oh yeah? And why should I believe you? Where do you get all this cosmic knowledge? Who are you to tell me what I should do? *Jack transforms into his true form* What the frell-? Who are you?
Jack/Ancient: Someone who understands the risks of power. Do you, Furlow? Do you understand the future you're about to create? Are you willing to see entire planets, entire civilizations wiped out? Put your weapon down. *a pregnant pause later* Put it down - now. *takes gun from her* Aeryn - you got explosives in your pack?
Aeryn: Yes.
Jack/Ancient: Set them.
Furlow: *to John* He ah - that alien? Why didn't ya tell me?
John: I think I did.
Furlow: Fair enough.
*Furlow attempts a secret deal with John, and the stakes on the table get worse*
Furlow: You know this - this really isn't necessary. We could uh -- just beat it before the Dreadnought gets here. You, me -- in the module. Down the wormhole. Sell the technology. Uh - only to uh - peaceful races of course.
John: And what about the others?
Furlow: Well same thing happens whether we're here or not. Listen - the Scarrans aren't gonna leave anybody breathing. No reason for all of us to die.
John: What's with your computer?
Furlow: Somebody's tapped in. They're stealing all my data.
Jack/Ancient: Shut it down!
Furlow: I can't. They've got full control.
Aeryn: Stand clear. Now! *John and Aeryn shoot the computer down*
Jack/Ancient: Who tapped in?
Furlow: A remote download. Overrode all my pass codes. Charrids are too stupid for that. Had to be Scarrans.
John: How much data did they get?
Furlow: Oh enough t'make their own phase stabilizer. But I guarantee - the Dreadnought'll still get here. They'll wanna make sure that nobody else gets the prototype. And - what's in here. *taps noggin* And ah - *to John* - you know that thing we were talkin' about earlier? It's lookin' even better now.
*Jack wants to destroy the dreadnaught, which means he must come clean about the wormhole knowledge in John’s head*
John: You got a plan?
Jack/Ancient: Yes. Something the Ancients wouldn't permit. Their sanctuary's under threat. I believe we can convert this phase stabilizer to another function.
John: We?
Jack/Ancient: Yes. Your knowledge of this level of technology is greater than mine. Alone, I'd never be able to complete the modifications in time.
John: Except I don't know how this thing works much less how to modify it - I won't be much help.
Jack/Ancient: Yes you will. During our last encounter, the Ancients embedded something else deep within your memory. The equations to create wormholes. It wasn't meant to be accessed consciously, but merely to guide you.
John: Guide me? Why not just give it to me?
Jack/Ancient: Because it was important that you develop it on your own. Or else not at all.
John: *bitter* Is that some sorta rule? Only hints otherwise it's cheating?
Jack/Ancient: There were Ancients who didn't want to give you anything. This knowledge is very dangerous.
John: Yeah I know - so give me the useless consolation prize.
Jack/Ancient: No not useless. It was meant to keep you on the right path. Possibly subtracting years from your research.
John: Possibly. Well thanks for the help.
Jack/Ancient: John, this knowledge may save all of our lives here. I can unlock it!
John: And what will your friends think about that?
Jack/Ancient: They'd stop me if they could. If they knew what you and I were creating here, they'd kill us both.
John: That's - terrific - Jack, I already got half the universe after me - I really want the Ancients on my ass as well.
Jack/Ancient: We don't have a choice. That Dreadnought is less than 5 hours from here. I need your expert help! If you're unwilling to give it then-
John: I didn't say - I wouldn't help.
Jack/Ancient: Good.
*John comes clean about Scorpius and Harvey*
John: Jack... I have a - confession to make. I knew about the stuff you guys put in my head.
Jack/Ancient: How?
John: Guy named Scorpius. He discovered the info was there and he put a neural chip in my head to extract the information.
Jack/Ancient: And he succeeded?
John: Well the chip's gone so I'd say yes - more or less.
Jack/Ancient: Why didn't you tell me?
John: *looks to Aeryn, who comes to stand near him in support* All right - there's more. When the chip was pulled, a - chunk - of Scorpius' personality was left behind.
Jack/Ancient: A neural clone?
John: You could call it that. I call it ah -- Harvey.
Jack/Ancient: Then we can't unlock the information in front of this clone.
John: So what do you wanna do?
Jack/Ancient: My mental energy is limited. But I believe between the two of us - we can drive this clone from your mind.
John: *hopeful* Could you say that with a little more confidence?
*Furlow’s way of getting rid of Charrids that have crossed Rygel’s line and come into the bunker*
Furlow: What the frell is-? *lobs explosive with her space wrench* WE'RE CLOSED, YA THODDOES!
*Aeryn gets the most heart-wrenching job, in the case of the Harvey extraction going wrong*
John: I don't see a lot of choice. Harvey's gotta go. (he trails Aeryn who walks over to talk to the Ancient)
Aeryn: And you can do this Jack?
Jack/Ancient: I can infuse him with all the mental capacity that I possess.
Aeryn: Which you admit is limited.
John: We take what we can get.
Aeryn: Is there some way to transfer energy? Can you - link his mind with mine?
Jack/Ancient: No. Aeryn Sun, John already has your strength.
John: And someone's gotta stay on the outside in case everything goes pear-shaped.
Aeryn: I know what to do.
*possible foreshadowing…Furlough remains a shifty character*
Furlow: Here's your partanium. Trouble is - I don't know if I can scrape up a protection suit.
Jack/Ancient: I don't need one.
Furlow: No kiddin'? *to John* Imagine if he was on our side.
John: He is on our side.
Furlow: Uh-huh.
*Crais attempts manual override, as something might be going wrong on Talyn…*
Crais: Talyn! I am taking control! I will keep you stable so you can calm down and heal your senses!
Stark: It's working I think- It's working, working!
Crais: Is the navigation console responding?
Stark: No - but I'm feeling better.
Crais: Something doesn't feel right. Must be the - must be the docking control...
Stark: It looks all right.
Crais: Try the comms again! Boost Talyn’s signal to maximum!
*Rygel might be an enthusiastic soldier*
Rygel: About time!
Aeryn: You let two through!
Rygel: Two? But I turned at least 12 of them to sand stains! Ah-ha! Here comes number 13! *shoots gun gleefully; misses target, but he retreats* Aw - miscalculated the windage. Next time I'll get him! I ever tell you about Rygel IX?
Aeryn: No.
Rygel: Single-handedly led the climactic charge at the Battle of Katreen.
Aeryn: He was a hero?
Rygel: He was a moron! Dominar’s are far too valuable for combat, much less front lines! But you know, strangely enough - I think I understand why he did it! Ah! Ha ha! Second try! *he shoots, and Charrid and his vehicle go flying in different directions* Taste this! Bloodsucker!
Aeryn: We'll make a soldier out of you yet Rygel.
Rygel: Well don't think I'm gonna make a habit of it!
*both John and Harvey struggle for dominance on the careening roller coaster*
John: Buckle up Scorp! We're goin' for a little riiiide!
Harvey: You don't have to do this John! I-I pose you no threat.
John: Right.
Harvey: I happen to know - that the wormhole knowledge is still inside your brain! But I don't want it!
John: Your better half does.
Harvey: Well he has a copy. But whether he knows how to make use of it - is not my concern! Therefore - there's no reason to get rid of me.
John: Yeah there is.
Harvey: No, it's the truth John - I don't want to overtake you! I'm happy to - COEXIST!
John: I'm not!
Harvey: Oh stop this John! I've helped you countless times! I'VE EVEN SAVED YOUR LIFE!
John: TO SAVE YOURSELF - YOU DON'T GET BROWNIE POINTS FOR THAT SCORP!
Harvey: OOoOOoOOO! BUT I CAN HELP YOU NOW! THAT ALIEN - HE'S USING YOU! AND AFTER YOU'VE DONE HIS DIRTY WORK FOR HIM, HE WILL TERMINATE YOU! FURLOW, RYGEL, STARK, AERYN-
John: DO NOT PLAY THE AERYN CARD SCORP! YOU KILLED HER!
Harvey: AERYN IS ALI-IVE!
John: NOW ZHAAN'S GONE! WHO DO I THANK FOR THAT?
Harvey: OOoOOOOoOoO! STOP THIS JOHN OR WE'LL BOTH DIE!
John: HOW CAN YOU DIE SCORP, WHEN YOU'RE NOT EVEN REAL?
Harvey: OHICANFEELIT! ICANFEELIT! WE'REBOTHGOINGTODIE! WE'REBOTHGOINGTODIE!
John: CAN YOU FEEL IT? WHY SHOULD I CARE?
Harvey: BECAUSE I AM PART OF YOU JOHN!
John: YEAH I KNOW! AND I'M SICK OF IT!
*dangling from the coaster tracks, then falling into a wormhole*
Harvey: (Help me John!
John: Go to hell Scorpy! For everything there is a season. A time to keep, and a time to cast away.
Harvey: *viciously* I warned you!
*Rygel’s final remarks before he’s hit by shrapnel and goes down*
Rygel: That's it! Keep running! Ohh - I'll give you indigestion! Charrid cowards couldn't hit a pregnant lobboth at that-
*…is John dead, too??*
Harvey/John: Officer Sun! What luscious lips. Amongst - *seizes her by throat* - other things. Crichton was a very - lucky man.
Aeryn: *struggling to speak* Where is he?
Harvey/John: Gone. Gambled and lost. How unfortunate you must lose as well.
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