Buck Rogers in the 25th Century s01e20 Episode Script
A Dream of Jennifer
I'm not the person you think I am at all, Buck: [Narrator.]
Buck falls in love with Jennifer, a lovely piece from his 20th-century past: : : Only to find it a mask of death, which promises destruction in the 25th century: [Explosion.]
- You may keep that face if you like: - How did you find us? She told us: The survival of Vega 5 rests with you: - I don't want them to hurt you: - "Them"? Just go: [Man Narrating.]
The year is 1987, and NASA launches the last of America's deep space probes: In a freak mishap, Ranger 3 and its pilot, Captain William "Buck'"Rogers, are blown out of their trajectory into an orbit which freezes his life-support systems: : : And returns Buck Rogers to Earth: : : [Chirping.]
Let's move it, Buck! I'm comin', I'm comin': Listen, thanks for helping me with my shopping, guys: I think that's about all the equipment I'm gonna need: [Chirping.]
It's about time: Yeah: [Theo.]
What exactly is a hot tub, Buck? Well, you get inside, fill it up, and you soak for a while: - Oh: Why? - Because it's relaxing: Wouldn't a sonic shower in zero gravity accomplish much the same thing? Tell you what come back to my place, I'll show you what it's gonna look like: Then maybe - I don't believe it: - Buck, is something wrong? Jennifer? [Chirping.]
Uh-oh: A pretty girl, and it's off to the races: Jenny:! Hey, it's me, Buck:! [Chirping.]
Buck:! Wait up, Buck:! Jennifer? [Theo.]
Buck? Are you all right? Yeah, I'm fine, Theo: I just thought I saw someone I knew: [Switch Clicks.]
[Sighs.]
I want to go to sleep: [Sighs.]
Hey, Buck: Buck:! Come on, buddy: Wake up: Come on, shake a leg, Rip Van Winkle: Your lady's gonna be here any minute: [Groans.]
What time is it, Toby? It's nearly 7:00: Oh, wow: I gotta get a move on: [Grunts.]
Listen, we gotta report at 0400 hours, buddy: - So you better make the most of the rest of the evening: - I intend to: I'm taking Jennifer to dinner at Raphael's: Raphael's? Fancy: Mm-hmm: Nothing but the best for her: Yeah? So how'd she get stuck with you? [Feigning Laughter.]
[Knocking On Door.]
Do you mind getting the door on your way out, Toby? Oh: Okay: I'm goin'! I'm gone: Listen, uh, we've gotta quit meeting like this: I mean, I think he's the jealous type: [Chuckling.]
Good night, Toby: Good night, Buck: - Hello: - Hi: You know, you're an amazing woman? Oh, yeah? Why is that? Because every time I see you, I think you couldn't get any more beautiful: And every time I see you, you do: Buck, I'm gonna miss you so much: I'm gonna miss you too: I brought you something: Oh, yeah? A going-away present? Well, sort of a "going-away" present and a "come-back-home-to-me-soon" present: Well, let me see what it is: [Laughing.]
[Clears Throat.]
Oh, wow! It's beautiful: Do you like it? I thought maybe you could take it with you on your ship: I will: Thank you: I love you: I love you too: Jennifer, I promise you: After this mission, I'm finished: I promise you: I'll never leave you again: Never again: [Buck's Voice, Echoing.]
Never again: Never again: Never again: Never again: Again, again, again, again: : : Again, again, again [Groans.]
[Wilma.]
That was some pretty fancy flying, Buck: I'm sure those cadets learned a great deal: It was nothin'special: Buck, are you all right? You've seemed: : : Kind of upset, all day: I'm fine: Of course: You want to talk about it? No: Wilma, I appreciate your concern, but I really don't want to talk about it: Not now, anyway: This is Deering: Good work, cadets: Return to Directorate flight hangar: Captain Rogers and I returning to New Chicago via central spaceport: Deering out: [Engines Rumbling.]
[Woman On P: A:.]
Flight 723, from Altair 3, now arriving at Gate 14: Orbital Shuttle 409, for City-On-The-Sea, now boarding at Gate 23: Oh, I have some business at the Spaceport Control: I won't be long: All right, fine: I'll wait for you in the lounge until you finish: Okay: [Woman Continues Announcements On Intercom.]
Again? Excuse me: Excuse me:! Pardon me! Excuse me! [Woman On Intercom.]
The last boarding call Miss! Miss, please! Wait! I'm sorry, sir: Flight 409 has just completed boarding: But there's a woman on that flight I've gotta see: I'm sorry, sir: Another flight will be departing in 20 minutes: Yeah, but she's on that flight, and I've gotta see her! I am sorry, sir: You are too late: [Woman On P: A:.]
Captain Christopher Pike, please report to the Veterans Affairs Office at once: [Snaps Fingers.]
Reservations desk: They'd at least have her name: Miss, I need your help: I'm looking for someone who just boarded Flight 409: I'm sorry, sir, but without the proper authorization, I'm afraid I can't release our passenger manifest to anyone: Look, this is important! I've got to find her! I'm sorry! - Problem? - Yes, I'm looking for someone who just boarded Flight 409: I have got to find her: It's very important: Aren't you Captain Rogers? Yes, I am: I'm very pleased to meet you, Captain: Um, give Captain Rogers any information he needs: Yes, sir: Thank you: Um, she's about 28, uh, blonde hair: : : Wearing a pink outfit with black boots: [Beeping Rapidly.]
Is this her? - Yeah, that's her: - Uh, name's Leila Markeson: No address listed: She's booked on Orbital Shuttle number 409, bound for City-On-The-Sea: - City-On-The-Sea? - An urban complex, located on the tip of what used to be called the Mississippi Delta: Oh, New Orleans! She may have gone to the, uh, Festival of Masks: We have hundreds of people leaving every hour: "Festival of"? Well, why not? I've never been to a 25th-century Mardi Gras before: Thank you very much: [Clicks.]
Nope: No, the computers don't show an address for Leila Markeson in City-On-The-Sea: She must just be a visitor of the city: Well, that makes things a bit harder, but I'm gonna find her: Buck, listen: Even if you do find her, what then? Doc Jennifer meant a lot to me: And even if there's only a one-in-a-million chance, I've got to take it: You can understand that, can't you? Oh, I suppose: [Sighs.]
For a year after my wife died, I had dreams: Nightmares, actually: I'd wake and: : : Expect to see her face: And then I'd remember that she was gone: I suppose, were I in your shoes, l I'd do exactly the same thing: - Good luck: - Thanks, Doc: [Door Opens.]
Buck, your shuttle is ready for takeoff: Thank you, Wilma: [Chirping.]
Good-bye, Buck: See ya, old buddy: Buck, l I hope you find what you're looking for: You deserve it: Thanks, Wilma: [Mechanical Clicking.]
Progress report from Vega system, Commander: - Capsulize: - The Vega colony is within our grasp: We estimate their weaponry and supplies will be depleted: : : Within five solar days: Unless, of course, the Earth Defense Directorate: : : Succeeds in their mission of mercy: You would know better than I the possibilities of that situation: Also, the Terran woman just arrived from New Chicago: Send her in: [Humming.]
Commander Reev will see you now: Reev? Everything went as planned: Buck Rogers should be on his way to City-On-The-Sea: Airspace Control, this is Captain Buck Rogers: Request permission to dock at central spaceport: Captain Rogers, this is City-On-The-Sea: You're cleared for docking: Please decelerate to Mach 1 and prepare for approach: Roger: [Rocket Decelerating.]
Now, about my credit voucher: But of course: The first half of your payment has already been deposited, as you know: The second half shall be transferred upon delivery of Rogers to us: With his help, we'll easily destroy the freighter the Terrans are sending to Vega: And as an added gratuity, you may keep that face, if you like: No, thank you: I prefer my own face: I'll be ready for molecular surgery immediately, after I complete this job: As you wish: Now then, allowing for a half-hour journey from New Chicago: : : Fifteen minutes to disembark, ten minutes to register for lodgings I'd say that Rogers will begin his search for his "lost love": : : At precisely 1500 hours: Let him search for an hour or two: Long enough for him to become tired: Discouraged: He'll be at his most vulnerable then: That is the moment you must appear: You think of everything, don't you, Reev? I can't afford not to: Well, you'll have your man: And I'd better have my money: Despite her behavior, your Leila's weak and soft: That could prove a danger: I have already taken that into account, Nola: There are ways to make that: : : Softness: : : Work to our advantage: The Koven are a warrior race in the Kadar system: We have recently learned of their plans to move against Vega 5: Since Vega 5 is an independent colony, we cannot send in fighter squadrons to help them fight the Koven: We can send them emergency equipment, supplies and weapons: And you five and Colonel Deering will transport those supplies: : : In an M-class starfreighter which we've secured for this mission: - Colonel Deering? - Lieutenant Rekoff? M-class freighters were abandoned years ago: Why are we using such an old model? This is a clandestine operation, Lieutenant: We've tried to keep every detail secret from the Koven operatives: Don't worry: We've replaced the freighter's old-fashioned ion engines: : : With a new tachyon drive, capable of tremendous speeds: Thank you, Colonel: Now: The ship is in Earth orbit: Colonel Deering and you will constitute the bridge crew: All other functions aboard the ship will be handled by maintenance androids: The survival of Vega 5 rests with you: : : And the supplies you'll be carrying: - Good luck: - [Sighs.]
Dismissed: [Door Opens.]
[Door Closes.]
[Dixieland.]
Masks! Robes! Enchantments! Festival tonight! No festivities without a mask, a robe, a pair of gloves! Ah, you:! What is your fancy? What kind of woman hides inside of you? Is it an angel, a peasant, a queen? Well, take a mask and live your dreams:! Well! And what about you, sir? A mask? A robe? No, no! An enchantment! No, thank you: I'm not here for the festival: No? Then why are you here? I'm looking for someone something that meant a lot to me: "Meant"? But that's in the past: Yesterday is gone: We have to live for today: You know, you may be right: What are you, anyway? A peddler or a psychologist? [Laughing.]
Neither, actually: You see Forgive me: They call me Silby: At your service: Buck Rogers: Pleased to meet you, Buck: No, I just, uh: : : Do this to make a living: But in real life, I'm a magician: That's funny: I didn't even think magic existed anymore: But of course it does: And will: For as long as we believe in the impossible: Sometimes that's very difficult to do: Yes: Yes: Well, it takes extraordinary people nowadays: Watch closely: Don't move: Watch this: Nothing here: : : Nothing there: : : But in the twinkling of an eye a bowl of fruit: [Crowd Laughing, Applauding.]
Not even close: Well, a mistake: A mistake: Never mind, sir: Never mind: Now, watch closely: Watch closely: Nothing: Nothing in my robes, yes? Nothing in my hands? But in the merest flash of a second: : : You will see an Antarean nightbird! [Crowd Laughing.]
[Dixieland.]
Miss! Leila! Leila Markeson: Yes? Can I help you? You're the man in the spaceport in New Chicago: Even the voice is the same: [Chuckling.]
Excuse me? I'm sorry: My name is Buck Rogers: And despite appearances, I'm not really crazy: L Oh, I didn't think you were crazy: Just a little strange, maybe: It's just that you remind me of someone I knew, a long, long time ago: Did you come all the way down here just to tell me that? No, no: Of course not: It's just that this person: : : Meant an awful lot to me, and when I saw you at a distance, l Okay: Can we go someplace and talk? [Chuckling.]
Maybe I can help clear this up: [Dixieland Ends.]
All right: - Um, I think there's a little café nearby: - Okay: Alpha Team, get the field generator to Shuttle 12: And stow it in hull section "C": And hurry: We only have nine hours: [Chirping.]
- Hiya, good-lookin': - [Chuckles.]
- How's it coming along, Colonel? - Fine, Dr: Huer: We should have the shuttle loaded by 1300 hours: And then one hour to the freighter, two more hours to get everything transferred: : : For the trip to Vega 5 Looks like we'll depart right on schedule: Good: So far, there are no indications the Koven is aware of this operation: Well, let's hope it stays that way: Any word from the Vega system? No: Our last communication with the colony was two hours ago: I'm afraid the Koven is jamming all subspace transmissions out of the system: Well then, we'll have to step up the operation: Exactly my idea, Colonel: [Chirping.]
See ya later, Wilma: YourJennifer sounds like she was a very lovely woman: And very lucky: Wait a minute: I was the lucky one: Oh, no: So was she: To have someone like you to love her: As much as you obviously did: I'm sorry: I keep staring: Can't seem to stop it: I don't mind: [Chuckles.]
I like the way you look at me: Very much: I just wish you were really looking at me: - And notJennifer: - Leila I know you're notJennifer: Yeah, physically, you do look like her, but: : : There's something different about you: I don't know if it's your smile, or your eyes, or Or something: Look, Buck, I have to I'd just like the chance to get to know that part of you: I'd like that too, very much: But you don't know what you're getting into: - And what's that? - I'm not the person you think I am at all, Buck: - You don't know anything about me: - That's what I'm talking about: - I'd like to get to know more about you: - No, you don't know what you're talking about: Look, just go home: Forget about me: Please: Go home: - Leila, I don't understand: - Leave! I don't want them to hurt you: - "Them"? - Just go: Hello, Captain Rogers: Good work, Leila: Captain Rogers: You will come quietly with us, and nobody will get hurt: [Grunting.]
Come on: After them and find Reev! That should do it: As soon as you take the shuttle back to Earth, we'll be able to leave orbit: Good: We'll be able to track you to stargate: After that, we'll have to maintain subspace silence: I understand: Lieutenant Rekoff estimates that we will reach the Vegan system: : : Excellent: Well: Then I won't keep you: Good luck: Convey my thanks to your crew: Dr: Huer: - Have you heard from Buck? - No, I haven't: I imagine he's still in City-On-The-Sea, chasing his dream: - Do you think he'll really find it? - I hope so: It would be nice to think that one could still recapture one's lost dreams: Wouldn't it? [Sighs.]
In here: Now Look, don't start in on me, Buck: I didn't know you: I didn't know anything about you, and I didn't care: How could you do something like this? To anyone! For money: I was poor, and I was sick of being poor: I was all alone, and I was scared: [Scoffs.]
And my precious ethics were getting me nowhere: For the first time in my life, I wanted to think of myself first: There was no way I could have known it was gonna be the wrong time: What's your connection with these aliens? They hired me: I was supposed to help them capture you: I don't know why: They didn't tell me all the details: I think they They want you to destroy something: A starfreighter, I think: How, uh How did they find out aboutJennifer? When you were off-planet, they got into your apartment: And they saw her photograph: And they set about: : : Creating a new Jennifer: "Creating"? - I don't believe it: - Molecular surgery: It's fast, it's very efficient, and it's reversible: Oh, Buck: I had to do it: Oh, Buck, I didn't know any of this was going to happen: How could I have known how you'd feel? [Softly.]
Or how I'd feel? [Whispers.]
It's all right: Leila: Everything up to now is in the past: Let's forget about it: It's not too late: Now, you wait right here: I'm gonna find the communications center and contact New Chicago: They'll have a shuttle here for us in less than an hour: No, Buck: Don't: No, you can't do that: That's exactly what they expect you to do: I know them: They've anticipated every move you can make: And they've got traps set for you everywhere: [Reev.]
I wouldn't try anything if I were you, Captain Rogers: Something might happen to your friend: - How did you find us? - She told us: During her surgery, we had a small transponder inserted beneath her skin tissues: We've known exactly where she's been: : : Ever since she decided to renege on our agreement: Stargate in 20 seconds, Colonel: Excellent: Punch in our destination, Lieutenant: Coordinates on the board: Entering stargate: [Exploding.]
Vega 5 now Very good, Lieutenant: Maintain subspace silence from this point on: You are to respond to no one and to no signal: I'll be in the cargo hold if you need me: You have comm: Captain Rogers, let's be reasonable: The conflict on Vega 5 is a minor one: A petty squabble that will quickly die if left alone: But, if the Federation freighter reaches the colony with those weapons, this could escalate into something monstrous: I'm sure the Federation knows what it's doing: Apparently not: Their intelligence network was infiltrated by nationalists in the colony: The Federation is responding to totally inaccurate information: Why didn't you go directly to the Federation with this? Unfortunately, the Federation is suspicious of anything we do: Most probably due to the same intelligence contamination: - As a result, we need you: - To do what? Our ships cannot intercept and destroy that freighter: : : Without inviting a war with the Federation: We do not wish that: But you could intercept and destroy the freighter: : : Before it reaches the colony: And why should I do anything for you, Reev? Two reasons: One, you would be doing a great service: : : For the Federation, and for all the innocent people on Vega 5: Secondly, if you do not help us, and them you and Leila Markeson will die: That's not true, Buck: Don't believe him: He's planning to put me in a state of cellular suspension: It's been his plan all along: The plan we told you about, Leila: Not the exact plan: Captain Rogers, I am totally serious about this: I am willing to do whatever is necessary to help those people: Use your head, Captain: There is nothing on that freighter but androids: You would be harming no one and saving countless lives: I can't do it, Reev: Not for you: Not for anyone: Then for Leila: [Whimpering.]
Buck? Okay, Reev: I'll do it: I don't like it, but I'll do it: Thank you, Captain Rogers: I can assure you: This is the right decision: Nola will be accompanying you: We'll be monitoring that sector with our long-range sensors: And we will know if the freighter is: : : Or is not destroyed: You have 12 hours to do so, and return here to Earth, before Leila is put to death: Fortunate for us you care so much for the Terran woman: [Engines Whining.]
Although I can hardly see why: She's so weak: Soft: You deserve someone much: : : Smarter: Stronger: I'm sure you have someone in mind: Perhaps: Thanks for the thought: But I'm not your type: [Low Humming, Increasing In Intensity.]
[Rockets Firing.]
Stargate coming up in 20 minutes: We should rendezvous with that freighter about five minutes after that: How do you plan on slipping past their defense shields? Oh, I thought I'd just wing it: - What? - Trust me: Not on your life: [Chirping.]
Hiya, Dr: Huer: Hello, Twiki: I don't believe I ordered any dinner: [Theo.]
Twiki thought you might need some nourishment, Doctor: [Chirping.]
Try it: You'll like it: What's the latest update on Vega 5, Doctor? Not good, I'm afraid: Koven warships have breached the colony's outer defense perimeter: They should be within striking range in ten hours: Well, at least it gives a four-hour margin of safety to Colonel Deering: You'll be monitoring the subspace channels all night, I expect? Of course: [Chirping.]
Okay, Doc: Eat your soup: What are you doing? Take a look out the starboard viewport: I'm sending out a code blue distress signal: All Directorate ships are obliged to respond: With any luck, the androids on board that freighter will tractor beam us right into their hangar bay: - And if they don't? - If they don't? I'll try and punch a hole in the middle of their force shield: We go in anyway: Do not try anything foolish, Captain Rogers: Like sabotaging your attack: If we do not get home, Leila Markeson dies: Don't worry, lady: Slamming my ship into a force shield is not exactly my idea of a good plan: [Rekoff.]
I'm receiving a code blue distress signal from a shuttle: : : Two thousand kilometers astern: Our orders are to proceed directly to Vega 5: I understand that, Colonel: But this is a code blue signal: Yes: That shuttle wouldn't be issuing it unless they were in some kind of serious trouble: [Inhales, Exhales.]
- Can you raise the shuttle on subspace? - [Buttons Clicking.]
Negative: They're not receiving: Their P: C: Units could be down: Mm-hmm: Tractor beam: Send two androids to the cargo hold: Keep them there until we find out who they are and what the trouble is: Yes, Colonel: [Electronic Whistling.]
Here we go: Halt: Please remain in the cargo area: : : Until proper identification can be verified: Certainly: We have our identification right here: - You know where the engine room is? - Ive got a pretty good idea: Look: We're bound to run into a lot of resistance: Don't you think I ought to have a gun? I don't think that's a wise idea, Captain Rogers: Why not? I told you I'd help you destroy this thing: Which is exactly what you're going to do: Proceed: - Buck! What's - Wilma, what are you doing here? Enough talking: Drop the gun: - What's going on? - Just do as she says, Wilma: - We don't have time to talk: - You're with: : : Her? Just drop the gun, Wilma: And get out of the way: I'll do that: Wilma, what are you doing here? It's only supposed to be androids on board: We were escorting the freighter to Vega 5, to help the colonists fight the Koven: What are you doing here with a Koven warrior? - The woman I was following? - Leila: Yeah: The Koven used her to get me to agree to come on board and try to blow up this freighter: - Nola and I were here for just that reason: - I don't understand: You wouldn't do that: No, of course not: But they've got Leila: And they're gonna kill her unless I can make them think that I've blown it up: - What did you have in mind? - They're scanning this quadrant with long-range sensors: - Mm-hmm: To monitor the explosions: - Exactly: But at this distance, it's almost impossible for them to distinguish between: : : A freighter explosion and an asteroid explosion: - You're probably right: - You got any bombs on board? We have a contra-terrene warhead we were delivering to the colonists: - Uh, that's in Hangar "B": - That's perfect: Let's get on down there: We've only got nine hours before they "deal" with Leila: Wilma? How are you coming with that warhead? [Keys Clicking.]
It's in launch position now: We'll eject it as soon as you're out of range: Good: As soon as it blows, put that freighter into overdrive: The Koven are unaware of the new tachyon engines: The warhead explosion will cover your escape: Yes, and by the time their sensors clear, we'll be far enough away that they won't even recognize us: Right: Good luck, Buck: Thank you, Wilma: Good luck to you: See you back on Earth: Rogers out: Captain Rogers has just entered the stargate: If everything goes as planned, the freighter should explode within 23 seconds: - [Explosion.]
- Exactly! On schedule: Captain Rogers will be returning here within 30 minutes: And then, what will you do? Absolutely nothing: You see, Rogers would never admit he deliberately sabotaged a Directorate mission: And, as for you, well I think your payment will ensure: : : Your continuing loyalty: If Buck will have me, then I'm going with him: I'm afraid I can't allow that to happen: Well, you can't stop me from leaving: Oh, I won't have to stop you: You'll gladly stay: - Why? - You have forgotten your transponder, Leila: It cannot be removed: If you were to leave with Buck Rogers: : : I would find you and kill you both: [Explosion.]
Buck! Don't try it! The explosion in space: It was a counterfeit: - That's very astute: - I anticipated as much: There was a 33% chance that you would not go through with the plan: I was counting on Nola to even up those odds: Nola's in a brig, on her way to Vega 5: Sorry to disappoint you: Leila, come on: Let's get out of here: - I can't go with you, Buck: - Why not? It's too late: Too much has already happened, and I don't think we could ever change that: And I'm just an image of somebody you lost a long, long time ago: - Leila, I know you're notJennifer: - No, please: Just go: I've already done too much, and I don't think I can ever turn back: Just go: Forget about me: [Reev.]
Any disturbance in the immediate area triggers off an alarm, as you can see: Reev! You told me he could live! Under different circumstances, yes: But not now: No! [Gasping.]
Leila? [Gasps.]
Leila? [Sobbing.]
I'm sorry: Shh: I'm so sorry I disappointed you: You didn't disappoint me: [Gasping.]
All I ever wanted to do was: : : Just to be like yourJennifer: Leila: Do you think: : : Maybe I was like her just a little bit? Yeah: Then I guess I didn't do: : : Everything wrong, did I? [Gasps.]
Buck? [Exhales.]
Dr: Huer, the spaceport just called, and Buck has just returned from the Antares system: Excellent! Do you suppose these last few weeks of rest have done him any good? I don't know: The last time I talked to him, three weeks ago, from the City-On-The-Sea, he sounded absolutely numb: Yes: Well, I know the feeling: [Beeping.]
Ah: That must be him: Well, welcome home, Buck: Thank you, Doctor: [Sighing.]
Good to have you home: Thank you, Wilma: Well, I wouldn't want to live through the last three weeks: : : For anything in the universe, but uh, at least it gave me some time to think: I learned something: I can't go back: It's impossible to pick up the past and try to relive it: All I can do is try to make the best of what I've got here: [Chirping.]
Welcome home, Buck: - Thanks, Twiki: - Speaking of homecomings: We have a little gift here, to celebrate yours: Dr: Junius found it in the archives: It's an old entertainment clip from the 20th century: I believe you called them "movies:" Thank you, Doc: I think it's a nature documentary of some kind: - A nature documentary? - Yes, apparently: : : It deals with aquatic life-forms although the title indicates anatomy: I think it's called Mouth or Mandibles or something like that: - Jaws? - Yes! Jaws:! That's it exactly! [Chirping.]
Just when you thought it was safe in the 25th century: [Laughing.]
Buck falls in love with Jennifer, a lovely piece from his 20th-century past: : : Only to find it a mask of death, which promises destruction in the 25th century: [Explosion.]
- You may keep that face if you like: - How did you find us? She told us: The survival of Vega 5 rests with you: - I don't want them to hurt you: - "Them"? Just go: [Man Narrating.]
The year is 1987, and NASA launches the last of America's deep space probes: In a freak mishap, Ranger 3 and its pilot, Captain William "Buck'"Rogers, are blown out of their trajectory into an orbit which freezes his life-support systems: : : And returns Buck Rogers to Earth: : : [Chirping.]
Let's move it, Buck! I'm comin', I'm comin': Listen, thanks for helping me with my shopping, guys: I think that's about all the equipment I'm gonna need: [Chirping.]
It's about time: Yeah: [Theo.]
What exactly is a hot tub, Buck? Well, you get inside, fill it up, and you soak for a while: - Oh: Why? - Because it's relaxing: Wouldn't a sonic shower in zero gravity accomplish much the same thing? Tell you what come back to my place, I'll show you what it's gonna look like: Then maybe - I don't believe it: - Buck, is something wrong? Jennifer? [Chirping.]
Uh-oh: A pretty girl, and it's off to the races: Jenny:! Hey, it's me, Buck:! [Chirping.]
Buck:! Wait up, Buck:! Jennifer? [Theo.]
Buck? Are you all right? Yeah, I'm fine, Theo: I just thought I saw someone I knew: [Switch Clicks.]
[Sighs.]
I want to go to sleep: [Sighs.]
Hey, Buck: Buck:! Come on, buddy: Wake up: Come on, shake a leg, Rip Van Winkle: Your lady's gonna be here any minute: [Groans.]
What time is it, Toby? It's nearly 7:00: Oh, wow: I gotta get a move on: [Grunts.]
Listen, we gotta report at 0400 hours, buddy: - So you better make the most of the rest of the evening: - I intend to: I'm taking Jennifer to dinner at Raphael's: Raphael's? Fancy: Mm-hmm: Nothing but the best for her: Yeah? So how'd she get stuck with you? [Feigning Laughter.]
[Knocking On Door.]
Do you mind getting the door on your way out, Toby? Oh: Okay: I'm goin'! I'm gone: Listen, uh, we've gotta quit meeting like this: I mean, I think he's the jealous type: [Chuckling.]
Good night, Toby: Good night, Buck: - Hello: - Hi: You know, you're an amazing woman? Oh, yeah? Why is that? Because every time I see you, I think you couldn't get any more beautiful: And every time I see you, you do: Buck, I'm gonna miss you so much: I'm gonna miss you too: I brought you something: Oh, yeah? A going-away present? Well, sort of a "going-away" present and a "come-back-home-to-me-soon" present: Well, let me see what it is: [Laughing.]
[Clears Throat.]
Oh, wow! It's beautiful: Do you like it? I thought maybe you could take it with you on your ship: I will: Thank you: I love you: I love you too: Jennifer, I promise you: After this mission, I'm finished: I promise you: I'll never leave you again: Never again: [Buck's Voice, Echoing.]
Never again: Never again: Never again: Never again: Again, again, again, again: : : Again, again, again [Groans.]
[Wilma.]
That was some pretty fancy flying, Buck: I'm sure those cadets learned a great deal: It was nothin'special: Buck, are you all right? You've seemed: : : Kind of upset, all day: I'm fine: Of course: You want to talk about it? No: Wilma, I appreciate your concern, but I really don't want to talk about it: Not now, anyway: This is Deering: Good work, cadets: Return to Directorate flight hangar: Captain Rogers and I returning to New Chicago via central spaceport: Deering out: [Engines Rumbling.]
[Woman On P: A:.]
Flight 723, from Altair 3, now arriving at Gate 14: Orbital Shuttle 409, for City-On-The-Sea, now boarding at Gate 23: Oh, I have some business at the Spaceport Control: I won't be long: All right, fine: I'll wait for you in the lounge until you finish: Okay: [Woman Continues Announcements On Intercom.]
Again? Excuse me: Excuse me:! Pardon me! Excuse me! [Woman On Intercom.]
The last boarding call Miss! Miss, please! Wait! I'm sorry, sir: Flight 409 has just completed boarding: But there's a woman on that flight I've gotta see: I'm sorry, sir: Another flight will be departing in 20 minutes: Yeah, but she's on that flight, and I've gotta see her! I am sorry, sir: You are too late: [Woman On P: A:.]
Captain Christopher Pike, please report to the Veterans Affairs Office at once: [Snaps Fingers.]
Reservations desk: They'd at least have her name: Miss, I need your help: I'm looking for someone who just boarded Flight 409: I'm sorry, sir, but without the proper authorization, I'm afraid I can't release our passenger manifest to anyone: Look, this is important! I've got to find her! I'm sorry! - Problem? - Yes, I'm looking for someone who just boarded Flight 409: I have got to find her: It's very important: Aren't you Captain Rogers? Yes, I am: I'm very pleased to meet you, Captain: Um, give Captain Rogers any information he needs: Yes, sir: Thank you: Um, she's about 28, uh, blonde hair: : : Wearing a pink outfit with black boots: [Beeping Rapidly.]
Is this her? - Yeah, that's her: - Uh, name's Leila Markeson: No address listed: She's booked on Orbital Shuttle number 409, bound for City-On-The-Sea: - City-On-The-Sea? - An urban complex, located on the tip of what used to be called the Mississippi Delta: Oh, New Orleans! She may have gone to the, uh, Festival of Masks: We have hundreds of people leaving every hour: "Festival of"? Well, why not? I've never been to a 25th-century Mardi Gras before: Thank you very much: [Clicks.]
Nope: No, the computers don't show an address for Leila Markeson in City-On-The-Sea: She must just be a visitor of the city: Well, that makes things a bit harder, but I'm gonna find her: Buck, listen: Even if you do find her, what then? Doc Jennifer meant a lot to me: And even if there's only a one-in-a-million chance, I've got to take it: You can understand that, can't you? Oh, I suppose: [Sighs.]
For a year after my wife died, I had dreams: Nightmares, actually: I'd wake and: : : Expect to see her face: And then I'd remember that she was gone: I suppose, were I in your shoes, l I'd do exactly the same thing: - Good luck: - Thanks, Doc: [Door Opens.]
Buck, your shuttle is ready for takeoff: Thank you, Wilma: [Chirping.]
Good-bye, Buck: See ya, old buddy: Buck, l I hope you find what you're looking for: You deserve it: Thanks, Wilma: [Mechanical Clicking.]
Progress report from Vega system, Commander: - Capsulize: - The Vega colony is within our grasp: We estimate their weaponry and supplies will be depleted: : : Within five solar days: Unless, of course, the Earth Defense Directorate: : : Succeeds in their mission of mercy: You would know better than I the possibilities of that situation: Also, the Terran woman just arrived from New Chicago: Send her in: [Humming.]
Commander Reev will see you now: Reev? Everything went as planned: Buck Rogers should be on his way to City-On-The-Sea: Airspace Control, this is Captain Buck Rogers: Request permission to dock at central spaceport: Captain Rogers, this is City-On-The-Sea: You're cleared for docking: Please decelerate to Mach 1 and prepare for approach: Roger: [Rocket Decelerating.]
Now, about my credit voucher: But of course: The first half of your payment has already been deposited, as you know: The second half shall be transferred upon delivery of Rogers to us: With his help, we'll easily destroy the freighter the Terrans are sending to Vega: And as an added gratuity, you may keep that face, if you like: No, thank you: I prefer my own face: I'll be ready for molecular surgery immediately, after I complete this job: As you wish: Now then, allowing for a half-hour journey from New Chicago: : : Fifteen minutes to disembark, ten minutes to register for lodgings I'd say that Rogers will begin his search for his "lost love": : : At precisely 1500 hours: Let him search for an hour or two: Long enough for him to become tired: Discouraged: He'll be at his most vulnerable then: That is the moment you must appear: You think of everything, don't you, Reev? I can't afford not to: Well, you'll have your man: And I'd better have my money: Despite her behavior, your Leila's weak and soft: That could prove a danger: I have already taken that into account, Nola: There are ways to make that: : : Softness: : : Work to our advantage: The Koven are a warrior race in the Kadar system: We have recently learned of their plans to move against Vega 5: Since Vega 5 is an independent colony, we cannot send in fighter squadrons to help them fight the Koven: We can send them emergency equipment, supplies and weapons: And you five and Colonel Deering will transport those supplies: : : In an M-class starfreighter which we've secured for this mission: - Colonel Deering? - Lieutenant Rekoff? M-class freighters were abandoned years ago: Why are we using such an old model? This is a clandestine operation, Lieutenant: We've tried to keep every detail secret from the Koven operatives: Don't worry: We've replaced the freighter's old-fashioned ion engines: : : With a new tachyon drive, capable of tremendous speeds: Thank you, Colonel: Now: The ship is in Earth orbit: Colonel Deering and you will constitute the bridge crew: All other functions aboard the ship will be handled by maintenance androids: The survival of Vega 5 rests with you: : : And the supplies you'll be carrying: - Good luck: - [Sighs.]
Dismissed: [Door Opens.]
[Door Closes.]
[Dixieland.]
Masks! Robes! Enchantments! Festival tonight! No festivities without a mask, a robe, a pair of gloves! Ah, you:! What is your fancy? What kind of woman hides inside of you? Is it an angel, a peasant, a queen? Well, take a mask and live your dreams:! Well! And what about you, sir? A mask? A robe? No, no! An enchantment! No, thank you: I'm not here for the festival: No? Then why are you here? I'm looking for someone something that meant a lot to me: "Meant"? But that's in the past: Yesterday is gone: We have to live for today: You know, you may be right: What are you, anyway? A peddler or a psychologist? [Laughing.]
Neither, actually: You see Forgive me: They call me Silby: At your service: Buck Rogers: Pleased to meet you, Buck: No, I just, uh: : : Do this to make a living: But in real life, I'm a magician: That's funny: I didn't even think magic existed anymore: But of course it does: And will: For as long as we believe in the impossible: Sometimes that's very difficult to do: Yes: Yes: Well, it takes extraordinary people nowadays: Watch closely: Don't move: Watch this: Nothing here: : : Nothing there: : : But in the twinkling of an eye a bowl of fruit: [Crowd Laughing, Applauding.]
Not even close: Well, a mistake: A mistake: Never mind, sir: Never mind: Now, watch closely: Watch closely: Nothing: Nothing in my robes, yes? Nothing in my hands? But in the merest flash of a second: : : You will see an Antarean nightbird! [Crowd Laughing.]
[Dixieland.]
Miss! Leila! Leila Markeson: Yes? Can I help you? You're the man in the spaceport in New Chicago: Even the voice is the same: [Chuckling.]
Excuse me? I'm sorry: My name is Buck Rogers: And despite appearances, I'm not really crazy: L Oh, I didn't think you were crazy: Just a little strange, maybe: It's just that you remind me of someone I knew, a long, long time ago: Did you come all the way down here just to tell me that? No, no: Of course not: It's just that this person: : : Meant an awful lot to me, and when I saw you at a distance, l Okay: Can we go someplace and talk? [Chuckling.]
Maybe I can help clear this up: [Dixieland Ends.]
All right: - Um, I think there's a little café nearby: - Okay: Alpha Team, get the field generator to Shuttle 12: And stow it in hull section "C": And hurry: We only have nine hours: [Chirping.]
- Hiya, good-lookin': - [Chuckles.]
- How's it coming along, Colonel? - Fine, Dr: Huer: We should have the shuttle loaded by 1300 hours: And then one hour to the freighter, two more hours to get everything transferred: : : For the trip to Vega 5 Looks like we'll depart right on schedule: Good: So far, there are no indications the Koven is aware of this operation: Well, let's hope it stays that way: Any word from the Vega system? No: Our last communication with the colony was two hours ago: I'm afraid the Koven is jamming all subspace transmissions out of the system: Well then, we'll have to step up the operation: Exactly my idea, Colonel: [Chirping.]
See ya later, Wilma: YourJennifer sounds like she was a very lovely woman: And very lucky: Wait a minute: I was the lucky one: Oh, no: So was she: To have someone like you to love her: As much as you obviously did: I'm sorry: I keep staring: Can't seem to stop it: I don't mind: [Chuckles.]
I like the way you look at me: Very much: I just wish you were really looking at me: - And notJennifer: - Leila I know you're notJennifer: Yeah, physically, you do look like her, but: : : There's something different about you: I don't know if it's your smile, or your eyes, or Or something: Look, Buck, I have to I'd just like the chance to get to know that part of you: I'd like that too, very much: But you don't know what you're getting into: - And what's that? - I'm not the person you think I am at all, Buck: - You don't know anything about me: - That's what I'm talking about: - I'd like to get to know more about you: - No, you don't know what you're talking about: Look, just go home: Forget about me: Please: Go home: - Leila, I don't understand: - Leave! I don't want them to hurt you: - "Them"? - Just go: Hello, Captain Rogers: Good work, Leila: Captain Rogers: You will come quietly with us, and nobody will get hurt: [Grunting.]
Come on: After them and find Reev! That should do it: As soon as you take the shuttle back to Earth, we'll be able to leave orbit: Good: We'll be able to track you to stargate: After that, we'll have to maintain subspace silence: I understand: Lieutenant Rekoff estimates that we will reach the Vegan system: : : Excellent: Well: Then I won't keep you: Good luck: Convey my thanks to your crew: Dr: Huer: - Have you heard from Buck? - No, I haven't: I imagine he's still in City-On-The-Sea, chasing his dream: - Do you think he'll really find it? - I hope so: It would be nice to think that one could still recapture one's lost dreams: Wouldn't it? [Sighs.]
In here: Now Look, don't start in on me, Buck: I didn't know you: I didn't know anything about you, and I didn't care: How could you do something like this? To anyone! For money: I was poor, and I was sick of being poor: I was all alone, and I was scared: [Scoffs.]
And my precious ethics were getting me nowhere: For the first time in my life, I wanted to think of myself first: There was no way I could have known it was gonna be the wrong time: What's your connection with these aliens? They hired me: I was supposed to help them capture you: I don't know why: They didn't tell me all the details: I think they They want you to destroy something: A starfreighter, I think: How, uh How did they find out aboutJennifer? When you were off-planet, they got into your apartment: And they saw her photograph: And they set about: : : Creating a new Jennifer: "Creating"? - I don't believe it: - Molecular surgery: It's fast, it's very efficient, and it's reversible: Oh, Buck: I had to do it: Oh, Buck, I didn't know any of this was going to happen: How could I have known how you'd feel? [Softly.]
Or how I'd feel? [Whispers.]
It's all right: Leila: Everything up to now is in the past: Let's forget about it: It's not too late: Now, you wait right here: I'm gonna find the communications center and contact New Chicago: They'll have a shuttle here for us in less than an hour: No, Buck: Don't: No, you can't do that: That's exactly what they expect you to do: I know them: They've anticipated every move you can make: And they've got traps set for you everywhere: [Reev.]
I wouldn't try anything if I were you, Captain Rogers: Something might happen to your friend: - How did you find us? - She told us: During her surgery, we had a small transponder inserted beneath her skin tissues: We've known exactly where she's been: : : Ever since she decided to renege on our agreement: Stargate in 20 seconds, Colonel: Excellent: Punch in our destination, Lieutenant: Coordinates on the board: Entering stargate: [Exploding.]
Vega 5 now Very good, Lieutenant: Maintain subspace silence from this point on: You are to respond to no one and to no signal: I'll be in the cargo hold if you need me: You have comm: Captain Rogers, let's be reasonable: The conflict on Vega 5 is a minor one: A petty squabble that will quickly die if left alone: But, if the Federation freighter reaches the colony with those weapons, this could escalate into something monstrous: I'm sure the Federation knows what it's doing: Apparently not: Their intelligence network was infiltrated by nationalists in the colony: The Federation is responding to totally inaccurate information: Why didn't you go directly to the Federation with this? Unfortunately, the Federation is suspicious of anything we do: Most probably due to the same intelligence contamination: - As a result, we need you: - To do what? Our ships cannot intercept and destroy that freighter: : : Without inviting a war with the Federation: We do not wish that: But you could intercept and destroy the freighter: : : Before it reaches the colony: And why should I do anything for you, Reev? Two reasons: One, you would be doing a great service: : : For the Federation, and for all the innocent people on Vega 5: Secondly, if you do not help us, and them you and Leila Markeson will die: That's not true, Buck: Don't believe him: He's planning to put me in a state of cellular suspension: It's been his plan all along: The plan we told you about, Leila: Not the exact plan: Captain Rogers, I am totally serious about this: I am willing to do whatever is necessary to help those people: Use your head, Captain: There is nothing on that freighter but androids: You would be harming no one and saving countless lives: I can't do it, Reev: Not for you: Not for anyone: Then for Leila: [Whimpering.]
Buck? Okay, Reev: I'll do it: I don't like it, but I'll do it: Thank you, Captain Rogers: I can assure you: This is the right decision: Nola will be accompanying you: We'll be monitoring that sector with our long-range sensors: And we will know if the freighter is: : : Or is not destroyed: You have 12 hours to do so, and return here to Earth, before Leila is put to death: Fortunate for us you care so much for the Terran woman: [Engines Whining.]
Although I can hardly see why: She's so weak: Soft: You deserve someone much: : : Smarter: Stronger: I'm sure you have someone in mind: Perhaps: Thanks for the thought: But I'm not your type: [Low Humming, Increasing In Intensity.]
[Rockets Firing.]
Stargate coming up in 20 minutes: We should rendezvous with that freighter about five minutes after that: How do you plan on slipping past their defense shields? Oh, I thought I'd just wing it: - What? - Trust me: Not on your life: [Chirping.]
Hiya, Dr: Huer: Hello, Twiki: I don't believe I ordered any dinner: [Theo.]
Twiki thought you might need some nourishment, Doctor: [Chirping.]
Try it: You'll like it: What's the latest update on Vega 5, Doctor? Not good, I'm afraid: Koven warships have breached the colony's outer defense perimeter: They should be within striking range in ten hours: Well, at least it gives a four-hour margin of safety to Colonel Deering: You'll be monitoring the subspace channels all night, I expect? Of course: [Chirping.]
Okay, Doc: Eat your soup: What are you doing? Take a look out the starboard viewport: I'm sending out a code blue distress signal: All Directorate ships are obliged to respond: With any luck, the androids on board that freighter will tractor beam us right into their hangar bay: - And if they don't? - If they don't? I'll try and punch a hole in the middle of their force shield: We go in anyway: Do not try anything foolish, Captain Rogers: Like sabotaging your attack: If we do not get home, Leila Markeson dies: Don't worry, lady: Slamming my ship into a force shield is not exactly my idea of a good plan: [Rekoff.]
I'm receiving a code blue distress signal from a shuttle: : : Two thousand kilometers astern: Our orders are to proceed directly to Vega 5: I understand that, Colonel: But this is a code blue signal: Yes: That shuttle wouldn't be issuing it unless they were in some kind of serious trouble: [Inhales, Exhales.]
- Can you raise the shuttle on subspace? - [Buttons Clicking.]
Negative: They're not receiving: Their P: C: Units could be down: Mm-hmm: Tractor beam: Send two androids to the cargo hold: Keep them there until we find out who they are and what the trouble is: Yes, Colonel: [Electronic Whistling.]
Here we go: Halt: Please remain in the cargo area: : : Until proper identification can be verified: Certainly: We have our identification right here: - You know where the engine room is? - Ive got a pretty good idea: Look: We're bound to run into a lot of resistance: Don't you think I ought to have a gun? I don't think that's a wise idea, Captain Rogers: Why not? I told you I'd help you destroy this thing: Which is exactly what you're going to do: Proceed: - Buck! What's - Wilma, what are you doing here? Enough talking: Drop the gun: - What's going on? - Just do as she says, Wilma: - We don't have time to talk: - You're with: : : Her? Just drop the gun, Wilma: And get out of the way: I'll do that: Wilma, what are you doing here? It's only supposed to be androids on board: We were escorting the freighter to Vega 5, to help the colonists fight the Koven: What are you doing here with a Koven warrior? - The woman I was following? - Leila: Yeah: The Koven used her to get me to agree to come on board and try to blow up this freighter: - Nola and I were here for just that reason: - I don't understand: You wouldn't do that: No, of course not: But they've got Leila: And they're gonna kill her unless I can make them think that I've blown it up: - What did you have in mind? - They're scanning this quadrant with long-range sensors: - Mm-hmm: To monitor the explosions: - Exactly: But at this distance, it's almost impossible for them to distinguish between: : : A freighter explosion and an asteroid explosion: - You're probably right: - You got any bombs on board? We have a contra-terrene warhead we were delivering to the colonists: - Uh, that's in Hangar "B": - That's perfect: Let's get on down there: We've only got nine hours before they "deal" with Leila: Wilma? How are you coming with that warhead? [Keys Clicking.]
It's in launch position now: We'll eject it as soon as you're out of range: Good: As soon as it blows, put that freighter into overdrive: The Koven are unaware of the new tachyon engines: The warhead explosion will cover your escape: Yes, and by the time their sensors clear, we'll be far enough away that they won't even recognize us: Right: Good luck, Buck: Thank you, Wilma: Good luck to you: See you back on Earth: Rogers out: Captain Rogers has just entered the stargate: If everything goes as planned, the freighter should explode within 23 seconds: - [Explosion.]
- Exactly! On schedule: Captain Rogers will be returning here within 30 minutes: And then, what will you do? Absolutely nothing: You see, Rogers would never admit he deliberately sabotaged a Directorate mission: And, as for you, well I think your payment will ensure: : : Your continuing loyalty: If Buck will have me, then I'm going with him: I'm afraid I can't allow that to happen: Well, you can't stop me from leaving: Oh, I won't have to stop you: You'll gladly stay: - Why? - You have forgotten your transponder, Leila: It cannot be removed: If you were to leave with Buck Rogers: : : I would find you and kill you both: [Explosion.]
Buck! Don't try it! The explosion in space: It was a counterfeit: - That's very astute: - I anticipated as much: There was a 33% chance that you would not go through with the plan: I was counting on Nola to even up those odds: Nola's in a brig, on her way to Vega 5: Sorry to disappoint you: Leila, come on: Let's get out of here: - I can't go with you, Buck: - Why not? It's too late: Too much has already happened, and I don't think we could ever change that: And I'm just an image of somebody you lost a long, long time ago: - Leila, I know you're notJennifer: - No, please: Just go: I've already done too much, and I don't think I can ever turn back: Just go: Forget about me: [Reev.]
Any disturbance in the immediate area triggers off an alarm, as you can see: Reev! You told me he could live! Under different circumstances, yes: But not now: No! [Gasping.]
Leila? [Gasps.]
Leila? [Sobbing.]
I'm sorry: Shh: I'm so sorry I disappointed you: You didn't disappoint me: [Gasping.]
All I ever wanted to do was: : : Just to be like yourJennifer: Leila: Do you think: : : Maybe I was like her just a little bit? Yeah: Then I guess I didn't do: : : Everything wrong, did I? [Gasps.]
Buck? [Exhales.]
Dr: Huer, the spaceport just called, and Buck has just returned from the Antares system: Excellent! Do you suppose these last few weeks of rest have done him any good? I don't know: The last time I talked to him, three weeks ago, from the City-On-The-Sea, he sounded absolutely numb: Yes: Well, I know the feeling: [Beeping.]
Ah: That must be him: Well, welcome home, Buck: Thank you, Doctor: [Sighing.]
Good to have you home: Thank you, Wilma: Well, I wouldn't want to live through the last three weeks: : : For anything in the universe, but uh, at least it gave me some time to think: I learned something: I can't go back: It's impossible to pick up the past and try to relive it: All I can do is try to make the best of what I've got here: [Chirping.]
Welcome home, Buck: - Thanks, Twiki: - Speaking of homecomings: We have a little gift here, to celebrate yours: Dr: Junius found it in the archives: It's an old entertainment clip from the 20th century: I believe you called them "movies:" Thank you, Doc: I think it's a nature documentary of some kind: - A nature documentary? - Yes, apparently: : : It deals with aquatic life-forms although the title indicates anatomy: I think it's called Mouth or Mandibles or something like that: - Jaws? - Yes! Jaws:! That's it exactly! [Chirping.]
Just when you thought it was safe in the 25th century: [Laughing.]