SGA 2.01 "The Siege Part 3" Transcript
Episode Guide
SGA 2.01 "The Siege Part 3" Episode Guide
Précis
As Lt. Aiden Ford recovers from his near-fatal encounter with a Wraith, the team races against time to save the city from an impending Wraith assault.
Guide | Transcript
Transcript
PREVIOUSLY ON STARGATE ATLANTIS
[Scenes from SGA 1.19 "The Siege Part 1" and SGA 1.20 "The Siege Part 2" are shown.]
TEASER
EXT—ATLANTIS BALCONY, DAY
[Ford and his team are on a balcony, flanked by two groups of Wraith.]
FORD
Defense!
[Firefight between Ford's team and Wraith. Most on both sides are killed or rendered unconscious. A Wraith soldier drone disarms Ford, takes him by the throat and starts to feed on him. Meanwhile, an injured Marine removes the pin from a grenade and drops it on the floor behind the Wraith feeding on Ford, where it explodes. Ford and the Wraith are blown off the balcony and fall into the ocean below.]
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
[The Puddle Jumper, piloted by Colonel Sheppard, approaches the dart bay entrance to a Wraith hive ship.]
CALDWELL
(over radio)
Major Sheppard, de-cloak your jumper immediately.
SHEPPARD
(confused)
What? Who the hell is this?
CALDWELL
(over radio)
Authentication Alpha-Charlie-One. De-cloak now.
EXT—HIVE SHIP IN SPACE
[Puddle Jumper de-cloaks as it enters hive ship dart bay entrance.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Weir and Beckett are watching monitors anxiously as McKay reports.]
MCKAY
Detonation in five, four, three, two…
[Monitor shows positions of Wraith ships above the planet as red dots, with a blue dot representing the Puddle Jumper approaching a hive.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, DAY
[Dozens of Wraith darts fly over the city, firing on it. There is a bright flash through the clouds.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Monitor shows the bright flash of an explosion where one of the Wraith ships was positioned, then it disappears along with the blue dot representing the Puddle Jumper. McKay, Beckett and Weir are anxiously watching the screen.]
CHUCK
Target has been neutralized.
WEIR
He did it.
MCKAY
(sadly)
Yeah. He did it.
CHUCK
Dr. Weir, I'm picking up another ship.
WEIR
Another hive ship?
CHUCK
Negative. I'm reading I.F.F.
SHEPPARD
(over radio)
Atlantis, this is Sheppard.
WEIR
(with disbelief)
John?
SHEPPARD
(over radio)
What other Sheppards do you know?
BECKETT
(smiling broadly and punching McKay on the shoulder)
Oh, thank God.
MCKAY
(incredulous)
No, it can't be. We saw the hive ship go up.
CALDWELL
(over radio)
I assure you, Dr. McKay, that Major Sheppard is alive and well.
WEIR
Who is this?
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
[Caldwell takes his seat on the bridge, flanked by his Bridge Officer, Kleinman and pilot, Cooper.]
CALDWELL
Colonel Steven Caldwell, commander of the Daedalus. We are ready to assist you.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
MCKAY
(with relief)
Oh, thank you.
WEIR
Well, we are very glad to hear it, Colonel. And I assume we have you to thank for saving Major Sheppard.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
We were monitoring your transmissions as soon as we came out of hyperspace, but we couldn't beam him in until he de-cloaked his jumper.
SHEPPARD
Didn't take much convincing.
CALDWELL
Dr. McKay?
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
MCKAY
(jumping to his feet with surprise)
Present. Yes.
CALDWELL
(over radio)
I trust you'll know what to do with this.
[Two Marines carrying a metal box are beamed into the control room.]
MARINE #1
Your ZPM, Sir.
BECKETT
(shocked)
How did they do that?
MCKAY
(excitedly taking the box from the Marine)
The Daedalus is loaded with Asgard technology. The beaming technology's the first part of it. They've got…
SHEPPARD
(over radio)
Rodney…
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
SHEPPARD
What say we get the shields back up?
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
MCKAY
(smiling as he takes the ZPM from the box)
What say we.
WEIR
We still have Wraith all over the city.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
After we deal with this other hive ship, we'll assist you as soon as we can. Caldwell out.
KLEINMAN
Sir, we have incoming enemy fighters bearing three-two-zero.
CALDWELL
All forward rail guns stand by. Launch all fighters.
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
[Firefight between Daedalus and Wraith ships begins.]
END TEASER
OPENING CREDITS
EXT—ATLANTIS, DAY
[Dozens of Wraith darts are flying over the city.]
EXT—ATLANTIS BALCONY, DAY
[Colonel Everett is struggling with a Wraith, he fires at it but runs out of bullets. The Wraith begins to feed on Everett, then an injured Marine fires at it.]
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
[Firefight between Daedalus and Wraith ships continues.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
NOVAK
(over radio)
Colonel Caldwell? This is Novak in Engineering.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
CALDWELL
(over radio)
What is it?
NOVAK
Hermiod wanted to remind you that our shield strength will be severely diminished without the Zero Point Module tied into our power systems.
CALDWELL
(over radio)
I'm well aware of that, Doctor. Caldwell out.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
[Sheppard is standing at the window of the bridge, where Caldwell joins him. The battle can be seen going on outside the ship.]
CALDWELL
Major, do you recommend any specific target on the hive ship?
SHEPPARD
One of the fighter bays, Sir.
CALDWELL
It would increase the chance of secondary explosions.
SHEPPARD
That was the thinking, Sir.
CALDWELL
I agree.
(to Kleinman)
Weapons, arm two Mark VIII tacticals. Our target is the hive ship's main fighter bay.
KLEINMAN
Warheads armed. Target is locked, Sir.
CALDWELL
Fire.
EXT—DAEDALUS, SPACE BATTLE
[Missiles are launched but are intercepted by darts.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
SHEPPARD
(frustrated)
They didn't even get close.
CALDWELL
Pilot, alter heading to intercept. Go to max thrust.
COOPER
Max thrust.
CALDWELL
We'll just have to get closer.
SHEPPARD
(quizzically)
The Asgard gave you hyperdrives and shields. How come no offensive weapons?
CALDWELL
They don't like providing other races with anything that could potentially be used against them.
SHEPPARD
I thought they were allies.
CALDWELL
Without their beaming technology, you wouldn't be here, Major.
(to Kleinman)
Arm two more Mark VIIIs.
SHEPPARD
You're wasting ordnance, Colonel. Those missiles are being intercepted miles from the hive ship.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Zelenka runs down the stairs into the control room, where he joins McKay who is punching keys on the computer.]
MCKAY
I brought up the shield subroutine. When I give the word, all you have to do is punch in…
ZELENKA
(impatiently)
Yes, I know what to do. Go.
[McKay takes the metal box containing the ZPM and joins Weir and two Marines outside the control room.]
MCKAY
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. What is this? This is my security escort?
WEIR
Well, we are spread a little bit thin right now.
MCKAY
(to Marines)
Okay, well, you need to know that if we come under fire, you'll have to put your lives on the line to protect me.
WEIR
Rodney!
MCKAY
Okay, I mean, the ZPM. You need to protect the ZPM at all costs… and me.
(to Weir)
Am I wrong?
[McKay and the Marines leave the gate room.]
CHUCK
Dr. Weir?
WEIR
Yes?
CHUCK
I've lost contact with some of our people.
WEIR
Who?
CHUCK
I can't get a hold of the teams led by Captain Radner, Teyla, or Lieutenant Ford.
WEIR
Well, keep trying.
[Weir walks away as Chuck returns to his console, exchanging a sympathetic glance with Zelenka and Beckett.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
[The monitor shows numerous Wraith ships bearing down on the Daedalus.]
SHEPPARD
Okay, now we're oh-for-two. How many of these things have you got?
CALDWELL
Only one needs to get through.
SHEPPARD
Is there any way we can deliver a warhead the same way you plucked me out of the Jumper?
CALDWELL
The Asgard have already considered that, Major. There are fail-safes built into the system to prevent their use as a weapons delivery system.
SHEPPARD
You've got one of these Asgard on board. Can he override the fail-safe?
CALDWELL
Why would he do that?
SHEPPARD
Well, his butt's on the line just as much as ours.
CALDWELL
(into radio)
Novak, I need you and Hermiod to figure out how to get a site-to-site transport lock on a set of coordinates inside the hive ship.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
NOVAK
(nervously)
No, no, no, no, no, no. Sir, uh, Hermiod isn't going to like that.
CALDWELL
(over radio)
Get it done, Doctor. That's an order.
[Hermiod looks quizzically at Novak, who appears anxious.]
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR
[McKay and two Marines are stealthily making their way through darkened corridors. They stop when they see two Wraith soldier drones at a control panel ahead.]
MCKAY
That's where we have to go.
[One of the Marines gives a series of hand signals to the other as the three men take positions.]
MCKAY
What's that? I didn't get all that. What do I do? Look, I'm getting good at the roll-y things. Maybe I can…
[The Marines move out, attracting the attention of the Wraith, who come to investigate. They are ambushed and shot.]
MARINE
(to the other Marine)
Clear.
(to McKay as he tries to go with them)
No. You stay here.
MCKAY
What?
[Both Marines are shot by a Wraith soldier drone, who then aims his weapon at McKay. McKay puts down the box containing the ZPM and looks defiantly at the Wraith.]
MCKAY
So…this is how it's going to be, huh? Just me?
[Another Wraith enters and aims its weapon at McKay.]
MCKAY Okay, that's fine!
(drawing his sidearm)
You want some of this? Huh? Huh?
[McKay attempts to fire at the Wraith but the clip falls out of the gun.]
MCKAY
(calling out frantically)
This is McKay! I'm in trouble down here!
[McKay ducks out of the way as automatic weapons fire is heard. Teyla enters, having shot the two Wraith.]
TEYLA
Dr. McKay? Are you all right?
MCKAY
Teyla! We thought you were…
TEYLA
My radio is broken and I was separated from my group. I have been trying to make my way back.
MCKAY
Well, thank God. I mean, you have no idea. I thought I was going to…
TEYLA
I thought you were very brave.
MCKAY
(surprised)
Really? Oh.
[Teyla looks questioningly at the metal box.]
MCKAY
I have a ZPM.
TEYLA
Yes.
MCKAY
Because we need to get the shields up.
TEYLA
Lead the way.
MCKAY
Yeah, sure. Uh, after you.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
[Monitor screen shows a detonation sequence.]
NOVAK
I've set the timer for five seconds. Is that enough time for you?
HERMIOD
Five seconds should be more than ample.
NOVAK
Okay, look… I know you don't approve of using technology this way, but you have to understand…
HERMIOD
(firmly)
I am ready.
NOVAK
(into radio)
Colonel, Hermiod is ready and standing by for warhead transport, but I can tell you he is not happy about this.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
(into radio)
I'll take that under advisement.
(to Kleinman)
Are we within transport range?
KLEINMAN
Yes, Sir.
CALDWELL
Transport warhead when ready.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
NOVAK
Ready. Five…
[beeping]The weapon is away.
[Hermiod mutters unintelligibly.]
EXT—HIVE SHIP IN SPACE
[The hive explodes in a massive fireball.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Monitor shows the explosion.]
CHUCK
(grinning)
We have a kill. The last hive ship has been neutralized.
[Weir and Zelenka smile at each other with relief.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
(into radio)
Novak, I need you to prep another warhead for transport. We need to take out those cruisers.
SHEPPARD
Sir, wait.
[Through the window behind Sheppard we see Wraith ships disappearing.]
KLEINMAN
Colonel, cruisers have broken off and entered hyperspace.
CALDWELL
After seeing what we just did to their remaining hive ships, I don't blame them.
SHEPPARD
There's still a lot of darts out there.
CALDWELL
All right, let's clean this up.
KLEINMAN
Sir, the Wraith fighters are regrouping.
CALDWELL
All rail gun positions stand by for defensive fire.
SHEPPARD
We're not the target.
KLEINMAN
Major Sheppard is right, Sir. The formation is headed toward Atlantis.
SHEPPARD
(into radio)
Elizabeth, you've got a problem.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[The monitor shows a large group of red dots moving towards the city.]
WEIR
Yeah, we see that, Major.
SHEPPARD
(over radio)
We're moving to intercept but I don't think we can get there in time.
CHUCK
Not a chance. They're coming in too fast.
ZELENKA
(horrified)
Oh, my God. Their approach is ballistic.
WEIR
And what exactly does that mean?
ZELENKA
Their impact velocities will be in excess of 10,000 kilometers an hour. No part of the city can withstand that.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
SHEPPARD
You better get the damn shield up.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
How much time do we have?
ZELENKA
Forty-five seconds.
WEIR
(into radio, anxiously)
Rodney, we need the shield up in forty seconds or we're dead.
EXT—ATLANTIS ZPM STATION, DAY
MCKAY
(into radio)
What, are you kidding me?
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Weir is at the balcony door, which slides open to reveal the cloudy sky from which the darts will descend on the city.]
WEIR
(into radio)
No.
EXT—ATLANTIS ZPM STATION, DAY
MCKAY
(into radio)
Because I can't help but think you're just trying to determine the point at which I completely snap.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
(into radio)
Rodney!
EXT—ATLANTIS ZPM STATION, DAY
[Teyla watches as McKay positions the ZPM in its holder, it illuminates and he runs to a control panel.]
MCKAY
(into radio)
That should do it. Fire it up.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Zelenka shakes his head at Weir. The monitor shows the red dots advancing on the city.]
WEIR
(into radio)
That didn't do it.
EXT—ATLANTIS ZPM STATION, DAY
MCKAY
(into radio)
What?
TEYLA
It is not working.
MCKAY
I know what she said.
WEIR
(over radio)
Twenty seconds.
MCKAY
(into radio, waving his finger angrily)
Okay. Snap! That's it! You all happy now?
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
(into radio)
Rodney!
EXT—ATLANTIS ZPM STATION, DAY
[McKay pushes down on the ZPM and it begins to fall slowly into its holder.]
MCKAY
(into radio while waiting for the ZPM to fall fully into place)
Okay, okay, okaaay. Try it now!
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
ZELENKA
(relieved)
Yes.
EXT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM BALCONY, DAY
[Weir watches as the shield rises over the city. The Wraith darts descend from the clouds and crash into it, exploding on impact.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
SHEPPARD
(into radio)
Atlantis, this is Sheppard. Come in. Atlantis.
[Sheppard and Caldwell exchange a look of concern.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Zelenka and Weir are watching the explosions above the city.]
SHEPPARD
(over radio, broken by static)
Elizabeth…I repeat…this is Sheppard. What is your status?
ZELENKA
The explosions must have disrupted the radio signals.
WEIR
(into radio)
We're still here. That's our status.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
SHEPPARD
(relieved, into radio)
Don't scare me like that.
WEIR
(over radio)
Sorry. What about the Wraith fleet?
CALDWELL
(into radio)
The remaining cruisers have withdrawn from the battle.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
(into radio)
Thank you, Colonel. Thank all of you.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
(into radio)
Glad to be of help. We're going to stay in geosynchronous orbit for the time being. Can we be of any further assistance?
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
(into radio)
We could use some help with the Wraith in the city.
CALDWELL
(over radio)
I'll send some people to help with that. Daedalus out.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
Major Sheppard, I'm sure you're anxious to get back to Atlantis.
SHEPPARD
Yes, Sir. Thank you.
[Sheppard leaves the bridge.]
EXT—ATLANTIS ZPM STATION, DAY
WEIR
(over radio)
Rodney, you can take the rest of the day off.
MCKAY
(lying down on floor)
Oh… I'm going to curl up in bed with the largest sandwich I can find.
TEYLA
(leaning over him, snarkily)
Shall I just explain to the rest of the Wraith left on the base that you are unavailable to fight?
MCKAY
Right.
[Teyla helps McKay get up and they enter the city.]
INT—ATLANTIS GATE ROOM
[Sheppard and four Marines beam into the gate room.]
SHEPPARD
(to Marines as they move out)
Secure Stargate Operations.
(calls out)
Well, I'm home.
[Weir walks over to Sheppard, smiling, and hugs him. He returns the hug, uncomfortably.]
WEIR
Yes, you are. I truly thought you…
SHEPPARD
Yeah, yeah, I thought the same thing about you a minute ago. We've got to stop that.
WEIR
I'd like that.
SHEPPARD
(changing the subject)
So where are we?
WEIR
Well, most of our sensors are still down, but we do know there are at least a handful of Wraith still in the city.
SHEPPARD
I've still got some work to do.
WEIR
Before you do anything, Colonel Everett insists on speaking with you. He's in the infirmary.
[Sheppard walks away.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[Sheppard is standing my Everett's infirmary bed. Everett has aged significantly as a result of having been fed on by the Wraith. His hands are shaking and speech is difficult.]
SHEPPARD
We've neutralized the hive ships, activated the shields and we've mustered as many people as we can, making sure there's no Wraith hiding in the shadows.
EVERETT
Good work, Major.
SHEPPARD
Thank you, Sir.
EVERETT
They're shipping me out with the next batch of wounded. I want to finish our conversation.
SHEPPARD
Yes, Sir.
EVERETT
I owe you an apology.
SHEPPARD
No, Sir, you don't.
EVERETT
I think I have a pretty good idea I would have done the same thing as you did when you found Colonel Sumner. That's what I wanted to tell you.
SHEPPARD
Well, none of that matters right now, Sir.
EVERETT
(fighting back tears)
I'm trying to say… I wish you had been there for me.
SHEPPARD
You're going to be fine, Sir. Once you get back to Earth…
EVERETT
I said what I had to say. Get back to work.
[Sheppard stands to attention and salutes Everett.]
SHEPPARD
Yes, Sir.
[Sheppard turns and leaves.]
INT—ATLANTIS GATE ROOM.
[Sheppard enters gate room with Zelenka and they approach Weir, who is having a conversation with two soldiers.]
ZELENKA
The preliminary count is forty casualties. Maybe more. I'm still trying to line up life signs readings with actual people.
SHEPPARD
There are no Wraith life signs?
[Weir joins Sheppard and Zelenka and they walk across and up the stairs to the control room as they talk.]
ZELENKA
The last one was trapped in one of the deeper parts of the city. He died trying to damage the city with one of their grenades.
WEIR
Three of our men were injured. On the bright side, there was no flooding.
SHEPPARD
Have we been able to locate Lieutenant Ford yet?
ZELENKA
I'm sorry. No. We've searched everywhere in the city. It's possible he may have beamed up into one of the Wraith darts.
SHEPPARD
Let's not make that assumption.
ZELENKA
Major, I'm sorry. We've searched everywhere in the city.
SHEPPARD
Well, how about outside the city?
ZELENKA
I don't understand.
SHEPPARD
Well, expand the sensors. Maybe he's in the water.
ZELENKA
Even if that was the case, there's no chance…
SHEPPARD
(frustrated)
Look, I'm not asking you to swim out there. I'm asking you to press a few damn buttons.
ZELENKA
Even if you're right, I don't see how…
[Zelenka presses some buttons and the monitor shows a blip outside the city perimeter.]
ZELENKA
Oh my God.
WEIR
(into radio)
Colonel Caldwell, one of our men is in the ocean outside our shield, most probably injured. Can you beam him to your ship, then down to our infirmary?
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
[Novak, Hermiod and some other personnel are at a console. We only see the light from a beam, but it is Novak's horrified expression that tells us something is wrong.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
NOVAK
(over radio)
Atlantis? This is Dr. Novak on the Daedalus. You're going to need some S.O.s in your infirmary before we beam your man down.
BECKETT
(into radio)
We already do, Doctor. Beam away.
[Ford is beamed into the infirmary with the Wraith that was feeding on him when they fell still attached by its hand to his chest.]
BECKETT
Good Lord. Let's get this thing off of him.
[Beckett runs to the prone Ford, feeling for a pulse.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, DAY
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[Ford is lying in an infirmary bed, unconscious. The camera zooms in on him slowly as we hear the conversation.]
SHEPPARD
(voice)
How is he?
BECKETT
(voice)
I gave him a mild sedative to help him rest. But he should be dead.
SHEPPARD
(voice)
Well, he's a tough kid.
[We now see Weir, Beckett and Sheppard standing around Ford's bed.]
BECKETT
Not my point, Major. He was laying face down in the freezing water for over an hour. I don't care how tough he is.
WEIR
So, what are you saying?
BECKETT
We still have no idea how it works, but during the Wraith feeding process, the victim is injected with a special enzyme. It strengthens the human body temporarily and ensures that the heart continues to beat.
SHEPPARD
Why would they want to make you stronger?
BECKETT
So the victim doesn't die immediately. The feeding process is so traumatic, without the special enzyme we shut down far sooner than they like.
WEIR
They make you stronger so they can take more time to kill you.
BECKETT
Lovely, isn't it? In most cases, the enzyme is released slowly into the blood stream throughout the feeding process. I can only ascertain that the Wraith died quite suddenly and that Lieutenant Ford's system became flooded with it.
WEIR
And that's why he was able to survive in the water for so long.
BECKETT
Exactly. The problem is now the enzyme is breaking down in his system. Eventually there'll be none left.
SHEPPARD
That's not good.
BECKETT
No. In fact, I'm quite certain it will kill him. It's possible his body's become dependent on the enzyme to function.
WEIR
What's the treatment?
BECKETT
We wean him off it, sneak his body chemistry back to normal incrementally.
SHEPPARD
Then we're going to have to get more of this enzyme.
BECKETT
Aye. With your permission, Doctor, I'd like to harvest it from the Wraith bodies in the morgue. I know it's a wee bit creepy, but…
MCKAY
(over radio)
Elizabeth. Major Sheppard.
WEIR
(to Beckett)
Do whatever you have to do.
(to McKay over radio)
What is it?
MCKAY
(over radio)
You're going to want to get up here.
[Weir and Sheppard leave the infirmary.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Zelenka and McKay are working at consoles as Weir and Sheppard enter the control room.]
SHEPPARD
Aren't you supposed to be getting some sleep, Rodney?
MCKAY
I was trying to do just that, but someone thought I should know the deep space sensors were back up and running.
WEIR
Yes, and?
ZELENKA
We've picked up twelve more hive ships traveling in hyperspace.
MCKAY
Their course and speed will bring them here in… thirty six hours.
[The monitor shows a dozen hive ships on course, as Weir and Sheppard exchange concerned looks.]
INT—ATLANTIS BRIEFING ROOM
[Monitors around the room show the progress of the hive ships as Caldwell paces past them angrily.]
CALDWELL
Twelve hive ships?
SHEPPARD
The cruisers that got away probably called for reinforcements.
MCKAY
Our research shows there are at least sixty hive ships in this galaxy, so who knows how many more could be on the way.
SHEPPARD
At least the shield's up and running.
MCKAY
That only buys us time.
SHEPPARD
I like time.
MCKAY
(becoming agitated)
The first siege of Atlantis lasted for years. I mean, with only one functioning ZPM, we can't expect to hold on that long.
CALDWELL
Can we submerge the city again?
MCKAY
(condescendingly)
It's a city, not a yo-yo. Look, I don't even know how they did it the first time.
CALDWELL
How long until they arrive?
WEIR
A little over a day.
SHEPPARD
You know what? I'm sick of this.
WEIR
I'm sorry?
SHEPPARD
I mean sitting around waiting for them to show up. I say we take the fight to them.
CALDWELL
We've got one ship, Major.
SHEPPARD
One ship with an Asgard shield, an armory full of nukes and beaming technology. That evens the odds a hell of a lot.
CALDWELL
Twelve ships and their escorts.
SHEPPARD
I'm telling you, we've got to send these guys a message. We're not like the Ancients. We're not going to sit around and wait. If they don't back off, we have the capacity and the will to go kick their asses for a change.
CALDWELL
How do I fight a ship in hyperspace?
MCKAY
The Wraith's faster-than-light travel is not as efficient as the Asgard hyperdrive aboard the Daedalus. (indicating the display on the monitor showing the hives' progress)
Not only are they slower, they need to travel in a series of jumps. So, if my calculations are correct, they'll make one last stop here, fifty light years away, before they make the final jump to Atlantis.
CALDWELL
Dr. Weir?
WEIR
It will feel good to have them on the defensive for a change.
SHEPPARD
All right, then. Let's do this.
EXT—SPACE
[The Daedalus drops out of hyperspace.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
KLEINMAN
Scanners are clear, Sir. No contacts.
CALDWELL
I hope we're in the right spot.
SHEPPARD
They'll be here. I've learned to trust Rodney about these things.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
NOVAK
I've set the warheads to go off one second…
(Hermiod groans)
…after reintegration. So, I assume you're fine with that?
[Hermiod ignores Novak and works at a console with his back to her.]
NOVAK
Okay.
EXT—ATLANTIS, DAY
INT—ATLANTIS, DR WEIR'S OFFICE
TEYLA
They are angry. I can feel it. Word of our success might spread to other worlds. They want us silenced.
WEIR
You can sense that?
TEYLA
The Wraith warriors were in such close proximity…
[The door to Dr Weir's office slides open and Ford enters.]
FORD
Excuse me.
WEIR
Ford!
FORD
I'd like to report for duty, ma'am.
WEIR
(incredulously)
Dr. Beckett released you?
FORD
Why wouldn't he? I'm fine.
[Teyla and Weir exchange concerned looks.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
SHEPPARD
If we can hit the first one or two as soon as they exit hyperspace, I think that'll send a message.
CALDWELL
Who knows? Maybe they'll surrender.
KLEINMAN
Sir, we have a contact.
CALDWELL
Standby for weapons deployment. Shields at max power.
KLEINMAN
Shields up.
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
[Twelve Wraith ships drop out of hyperspace in front of the Daedalus.]
CALDWELL
(into radio)
Novak, this is Caldwell. Begin deployment at your discretion.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
HERMIOD
I have a weapons' lock on the coordinates of the first enemy vessel.
NOVAK
Got it. First weapon away, Colonel.
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
[The Wraith ship nearest to the Daedalus explodes.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
[The monitor shows one the twelve red dots disappearing.]
KLEINMAN
That's a kill.
NOVAK
(over radio)
Stand by.
[The monitor shows another red dot disappearing.]
SHEPPARD
All right, that's two.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
NOVAK
It's working.
HERMIOD
Stand by for coordinates.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
KLEINMAN
The other hive ships are altering course to intercept.
CALDWELL
Take us right at them.
COOPER
Yes, Sir.
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
[A firefight between the Daedalus and several Wraith ships ensues.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
SHEPPARD
They're flanking us.
CALDWELL
Forward rail guns return fire.
(into radio)
Novak, we need to speed up deployment of those nukes, or this fight is going to be over soon.
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
[Sparks start flying in engineering.]
HERMIOD
The enemy has engaged countermeasures that are preventing our ability to transport.
NOVAK
Is there a way to counter the countermeasures?
HERMIOD
None.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
NOVAK
(over radio)
Colonel, we have a problem. They've found a way to jam us from beaming onto their ships. We don't know how.
[Sparks start flying on the bridge.]
KLEINMAN
Rear shield emitters are down to forty percent!
[An airman is hit by flying sparks and steam from a burst pipe and falls to the ground; others rush to her aid. The situation on the bridge is worsening.]
KLEINMAN
Ventral rail gun two is out of action!
CALDWELL
Bring subspace engines to max thrust.
COOPER
Yes, Sir.
CALDWELL
Try keeping the damaged shield from their main force.
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
[The firefight continues. We pan around to see a Wraith ship coming into position above the Daedalus.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
[Warning sirens are blaring and people are trying to get damage under control.]
KLEINMAN
Sir, one of the cruisers is approaching on a parallel course.
SHEPPARD
They may intend to board us. That was their strategy when they attacked Atlantis.
CALDWELL
Shield status.
[The monitor shows shields getting lower.]
KLEINMAN
Under twenty percent.
CALDWELL
Set course for Atlantis and engage hyperdrive.
COOPER
Hyperdrive. Yes, Sir.
CALDWELL
This fight is over.
EXT—DAEDALUS IN SPACE
[The Daedalus flees the fight and jumps into hyperspace while the Wraith continue their barrage of weapons fire.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
CALDWELL
(over radio)
Bottom line is, it didn't work.
WEIR
Well, at least you gave them something to think about.
CALDWELL
We'll see. I doubt very much if that tactic will work again.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
(into radio)
The Daedalus has sustained damage.
SHEPPARD
It was still the right thing to do.
(to Weir into radio)
We should make it home before they do.
WEIR
(over radio)
I hope so. We'll keep the porch light on for you.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
Okay, what are our options?
MCKAY
Oh, let me see. We've got slow death, quick death, painful death, cold, lonely death…
WEIR
Okay, you said yourself that the shield should buy us some time at least.
[Weir is speaking to McKay and is taken aback by Ford's presence.]
FORD
Where do you want me?
WEIR
Lieutenant, I…
[The door opens and Beckett enters the control room. He's angry.]
BECKETT
Lieutenant, what do you think you're doing here?
FORD
I'm fine, Doc, really. It's cool.
BECKETT
The hell you are. You should be back in bed.
FORD
I feel great. Just drop it.
BECKETT
I will not "just drop it." Not 20 minutes ago, you were at death's door. I don't care how spry you're feeling. You need to be under medical supervision.
FORD
I'm good to go.
WEIR
I appreciate your enthusiasm, Lieutenant, but…
FORD
I'm serious. Just let me prove it. Just give me something to do.
BECKETT
I don't think so.
[Ford swings around and grabs Beckett by the throat, lifting him up and pushing him against the glass wall.]
FORD
(furiously)
Don't push me around!
TEYLA
Lieutenant! Put him down, Aiden. He's trying to help you. Aiden.
[Ford slowly lowers Beckett to the ground, his expression changing from fury to remorse.]
FORD
I'm sorry, Doc. I don't know why I…
BECKETT
(clutching at his throat, his voice cracking)
You need to be under medical supervision.
WEIR
He's right, Lieutenant. We just want to know why you're suddenly feeling this way.
FORD
Okay. I'll go back.
WEIR
Good. That's what you should do.
FORD
Yes, Ma'am.
[Teyla escorts Ford from the room.]
WEIR
Sedate him if you have to.
BECKETT
Aye.
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[Ford is seemingly unconscious in a bed. Teyla and Weir stand by the door and Beckett walks over to them.]
BECKETT
It's starting to affect his brain chemistry.
WEIR
There's no way you could have known that, Carson, and it's better this than dead.
BECKETT
We need to be more aggressive, wean him off it quicker than I expected to.
[Ford's eyes suddenly open and he lies still, listening to conversation.]
BECKETT
It'll be painful and arduous, but I think it may be the only option. I've sedated him, but he should definitely be under secure supervision.
WEIR
I've already stationed a guard at the door.
CHUCK
(over radio)
Dr. Weir, the Daedalus is requesting permission to land on the east pier.
WEIR
(into radio)
Permission granted. I'll meet them there.
[Weir walks away. Teyla and Beckett approach Ford's bed and he closes his eyes, pretending to be unconscious.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
[The Daedalus lands on the pier.]
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR
[Weir meets Caldwell, Sheppard and several airmen as they enter. They walk through the city, talking.]
WEIR
Welcome back to Atlantis, Colonel.
SHEPPARD
The Wraith are right behind us.
WEIR
I wasn't expecting you to land.
CALDWELL
Until repairs are complete, the Daedalus is going to need Atlantis' shields as much as you do.
CHUCK
(over radio)
Dr. Weir, the hive ships are emerging from hyperspace.
WEIR
We're on our way.
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[Beckett and another doctor are helping a man in a neck brace while an armed Marine patrols. As the Marine leaves the room, Ford grabs a metal cup from beside his bed. The Marine hears and turns around as Ford throws it at him. It hits the Marine in the face, knocking him to the ground. Ford runs to him and takes his weapon.]
BECKETT
Ford!
FORD
Don't move or I'll shoot him.
(aiming the gun at Beckett)
Where's the rest of the enzyme?
BECKETT
There is no more.
FORD
I saw you extract it. Don't lie to me. Where is it?
BECKETT
No, I'm not lying!
[Ford fires at the shelves behind Beckett, who ducks out of the way.]
FORD
Where is it?
BECKETT
You're not thinking straight, son.
FORD
You're all afraid of me.
BECKETT
Look at what you're doing. We have good reason to be.
FORD
I'm going to die if I don't get it.
BECKETT
Aiden, you're not going to die!
FORD
Shut up!
(pointing the gun at the man in the neck brace)
I'm not going to ask again.
[Beckett goes to the fridge and takes out some I.V. bags filled with red gel.]
FORD
Is that all of it?
BECKETT
I promise you.
FORD
Toss it over. Toss it!
[Beckett throws the bags to Ford.]
FORD
Don't follow me.
[Ford runs from the room.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[McKay, Sheppard, Weir and Caldwell enter as an alarm sounds on Chuck's control panel.]
CHUCK
They're getting into some sort of formation.
MCKAY
Move, move.
[McKay approaches a console and starts punching keys.]
EXT—SPACE
[The remaining hive ships are in space above the city and begin firing on it.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
[The Wraith weapons' fire rains down on the shield.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Flashes of light and the sound of explosions have everyone concerned.]
MCKAY
The shield's holding under the bombardment, but it's under incredible strain.
WEIR
How long will it hold?
MCKAY
If they'd stop firing at it, it'd last almost indefinitely but with this kind of…
WEIR
Are we talking months? Weeks?
MCKAY
Days. At this rate, the ZPM will be depleted within days.
[Concerned looks are exchanged between Weir, Caldwell and Sheppard.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
[Bright flashes like fireworks fill the sky as the Wraith weapons explode on the shield above the city. McKay and Sheppard stand on a balcony, watching the display.]
MCKAY
It's almost pretty, isn't it?
SHEPPARD
Almost. Not quite.
[They walk back inside.]
INT—ATLANTIS BRIEFING ROOM
[Sheppard and McKay join Teyla, Weir, Caldwell, Zelenka and numerous other personnel around the conference table.]
CALDWELL
We can get the Daedalus back into fighting form within 24 hours, but I think the next engagement's going to have the same result.
WEIR
Even if we were able to destroy these ships this instant, more would be here in a few days, and even more a few days after that. From where I'm standing, I just don't see how we can win this.
MCKAY
Well, now we know how the Ancients must have felt.
ZELENKA
Atlantis is the only way to Earth. As long as they know we're here, they're just going to keep coming.
SHEPPARD
"As long as they know that we're here."
WEIR
What do you mean?
SHEPPARD
Zelenka just said, "As long as they know that we're here, they'll keep coming."
MCKAY
Yes, he said that.
SHEPPARD
What if they thought we were gone?
TEYLA
Then there'd be no reason for them to stay.
SHEPPARD
Exactly.
MCKAY
Exactly what?
SHEPPARD
We disappear.
CALDWELL
Destroy the city, you mean?
SHEPPARD
No, we just make it look like we did.
WEIR
How?
MCKAY
(clicking his fingers excitedly)
We cloak it.
ZELENKA
Yes! Yes! The Puddle Jumpers are equipped with cloaking technology, which renders them invisible to the naked eye and to Wraith scans. If we just simply remove one of the cloak generators from the Puddle Jumper…
MCKAY
I wouldn't say "simply", but, yes. By interfacing a Jumper's stealth mode generator with the city shield, we should be able to render the city invisible.
CALDWELL
That's all well and good, but I think if the city were to suddenly disappear, they might be able to put one and one together.
MCKAY
(wagging his finger and smiling smugly)
Which is why we fake a self-destruct. Have the Daedalus beam a nuke right above the city shield and then detonate it. While their sensors are blinded, we cloak the city. When the smoke clears…
WEIR
Nothing but ocean.
CALDWELL
What about hard radiation?
MCKAY
I should be able to calculate with reasonable accuracy how long to wait before we switch over to cloak.
ZELENKA
What about the displacement issue?
MCKAY
That's coplanar emulation. That's the easy part.
ZELENKA
Okay. What about the hard part?
SHEPPARD
Hard part?
MCKAY
The cloak, for all intents and purposes, will replace the shield, which means that we'll be completely unprotected once the cloak's activated.
WEIR
We'll be completely exposed?
MCKAY
Well, yes.
CALDWELL
So if they're not fooled by the ruse…
SHEPPARD
Then they destroy the city. Which, I remind you, is exactly what we were going to do anyway.
WEIR
What about the Daedalus?
CALDWELL
Well, if it doesn't work, our shield should be sufficiently recharged to break through their lines and escape. We know we can outrun them.
SHEPPARD
All right. Let's get as many non-essential personnel onto your ship as we can, just in case.
WEIR
I love this idea, I really do, but the Wraith are aware that we have cloaking technology.
TEYLA
They are close. Close enough for me to connect to them. If I can convince them that we intend to destroy Atlantis rather than allow it to be taken, just before the explosion occurs…
WEIR
How will we know whether or not they believe you?
SHEPPARD
Once they stop the bombardment, we'll know.
TEYLA
He's right. If the Wraith believe that we intend to destroy the city, the last thing they'll want to do is to help us do it.
WEIR
How much time do you need?
MCKAY
Oh, uh…
ZELENKA
A week.
MCKAY
Couple of hours.
WEIR
I'll take the second estimate. Go.
[As everyone gets up to leave, McKay looks derisively at Zelenka.]
MCKAY
(snarkily)
What, are you union?
ZELENKA
(annoyed)
"Couple of hours."
INT—ATLANTIS GATE ROOM
[Beckett runs up the stairs from the gate room.]
BECKETT
He escaped.
TEYLA
What?
SHEPPARD
Who?
BECKETT
Ford. He was able to disarm one of the Marines and got away with all the Wraith enzyme I had left.
SHEPPARD
(into radio)
Ford, this is Sheppard. Come in. Ford, I need you to come back to the control room, buddy. We're all going home.
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR
[Ford is sitting in a darkened corridor having just injected himself with some of the Wraith enzyme. He still has the rest in I.V. bags.]
SHEPPARD
(over radio)
Lieutenant, do you copy?
FORD
(into radio)
You're just afraid of me, Major. You're afraid of what I can do now. I'm not listening to you.
INT—ATLANTIS GATE ROOM
SHEPPARD
I'm going after him.
[Sheppard hurries away.]
WEIR
(calling out after Sheppard)
Now's not the right time!
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
[McKay and Zelenka, guarded by a Marine, are working on the Jumper's cloaking device.]
INT—DAEDALUS CORRIDOR
[Personnel, including the injured, are boarding the Daedalus.]
INT—ATLANTIS WALKWAY
[Ford is sneaking around while Sheppard searches for him in the darkened bowels of the city.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
[The Wraith barrage on the shield continues.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[Teyla is lying on a bed with Beckett sitting by her.]
BECKETT
Now, I'm jolting you out of this the second I feel there's a problem.
TEYLA
I understand.
BECKETT
(into radio)
We're all set down here.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[McKay is at a console as Weir looks on.]
WEIR
Good. We're almost ready up here. Rodney?
MCKAY
Ready.
(into radio)
Radek.
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
ZELENKA
Ready to go.
[Zelenka operates the dials on the Jumper's control panel.]
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
WEIR
(over radio)
Colonel Caldwell?
CALDWELL
Your people are securely aboard. Warhead has been armed and is ready for deployment on your mark.
WEIR
Very good. Stand by.
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR
[Ford is sneaking around in the darkened corridor, but Sheppard is aware of his position and is pursuing him with a Wraith stun weapon.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
(into radio)
Dr. Beckett?
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
BECKETT
Teyla?
TEYLA
I am ready.
BECKETT
(into radio)
We're good to go.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
All right. Let's send our message.
[McKay works a computer.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[Teyla goes into a trance-like state.]
INT—WRAITH SHIP
[We see Wraith walking along corridors.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
TEYLA
I'm on one of the ships.
INT—WRAITH SHIP
[We see Wraith walking along corridors.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
TEYLA
They see me.
[Beckett looks concerned, then Teyla gasps and sits up suddenly.]
BECKETT
Teyla?
TEYLA
The message has been delivered.
BECKETT
(into radio)
Elizabeth, it's done.
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
[The barrage of weapons' fire against the shield ceases.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
Seems that they heard Teyla loud and clear. Rodney?
MCKAY
Yeah, I think I'm ready.
WEIR
You "think"?!
MCKAY
I am definitely ready.
WEIR
(into radio)
Daedalus, launch the weapon.
(to Chuck)
Give me city-wide.
(over loudspeakers)
Attention all personnel. Prepare for detonation flash.
[McKay shuts the consoles down and puts on protective eyewear.]
MCKAY
Shut them down!
INT—DAEDALUS ENGINEERING
[Hermiod works at a console then gives Novak a nod.]
NOVAK
(into radio)
The weapon is away.
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
[A huge explosion is seen above the city and it is shrouded in a massive cloud.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[Weir and Chuck look up from where they had been covering their eyes as Rodney takes off his eyewear and anxiously checks a computer.]
WEIR
Rodney?
MCKAY
If we switch to the cloak before the blast radius diminishes, we'll all be incinerated. Five seconds.
INT—DAEDALUS BRIDGE
CALDWELL
Stand by to engage sub-light engines on my mark.
COOPER
Standing by, Sir.
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
[The fireball of the explosion and the resulting cloud spread up and out over the city.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
Okay, that was definitely five seconds!
[McKay hits some keys on the computer.]
MCKAY
We're cloaked.
WEIR
How can you tell?
MCKAY
(whispering)
They're scanning for us.
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR
[Sheppard is advancing along a darkened corridor with the Wraith stun weapon ready to fire. He approaches Ford, who is standing in the light, his weapon aimed at Sheppard.]
FORD
I could've shot you a couple of times by now.
[Sheppard lowers his weapon.]
SHEPPARD
Well… I'm glad you didn't.
[Ford lowers his weapon.]
SHEPPARD
(advancing slowly)
Look, why don't you and I just go someplace where we can talk.
FORD
(backing away)
You're trying to change me back.
SHEPPARD
(still advancing)
No. I'm just trying to help you.
FORD
(shakes his head)
No, you're not.
[Ford turns and walks into a transporter.]
SHEPPARD
Oh, crap.
[Sheppard fire the stun weapon and hits Ford in the back. Ford just turns and looks angrily at him as he punches a destination on the console. As the transporter doors close, Sheppard runs towards them, but when they open again, Ford is gone.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
MCKAY
(whispering)
I don't think they've detected us.
WEIR
(whispering)
Why are you whispering?
MCKAY
I don't know. It just seems like the right thing to do.
WEIR
Is it working or not?
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR
[Zelenka is walking along punching buttons on a handheld device. As he turns from one corridor into another, he is punched in face by Ford and falls to the ground. Ford grabs a bag from the floor and runs away.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[The Stargate starts dialling.]
WEIR
What the hell?!
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
[Ford is at the controls of a Jumper, dialing the 'gate.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
[McKay works at the console. Sheppard runs in.]
SHEPPARD
Where's Ford?
MCKAY
(angrily)
I assume that's him in that Jumper.
INT—ATLANTIS GATE ROOM
[The Jumper descends and positions itself in front of the open wormhole.]
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
WEIR
Can they detect that?
MCKAY
I don't know.
WEIR
Shut it down.
MCKAY
I can't. The Jumper's in control.
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
[Ford is at the Jumper controls and Sheppard is standing in front of it.]
SHEPPARD
Ford! Stand down! This is a direct order!
[Ford looks defiantly at Sheppard then flies the Jumper through the 'gate. The wormhole disconnects. Sheppard is left standing by the 'gate.]
SHEPPARD
(calling up to the control room)
Where the hell is he going?
WEIR
It won't matter if the Wraith can detect the gate activity through the cloak.
MCKAY
There's only one way to know.
[McKay and Weir stand in silence, listening for sounds of Wraith attack.]
CALDWELL
(over radio)
This is Daedalus. Our sensors indicate the Wraith fleet is breaking orbit.
MCKAY
(checking his computer)
I can confirm that. They're headed for hyperspace.
(relieved)
Look, I'm going to keep the cloak up for a while just to be sure, but, uh…I think they bought it.
INT—ATLANTIS GATE ROOM
[Sheppard is still standing in front of the 'gate as Weir goes to join him.]
WEIR
The gate address will be in the log. There's still a chance…
SHEPPARD
Doesn't matter where he goes. The second he gets to wherever he's going, he's going to ditch the Jumper, turn around, and dial another address, one we can't trace.
WEIR
We'll find him.
SHEPPARD
Maybe.
WEIR
Hey. At least we're still around to try.
SHEPPARD
Yeah.
[Sheppard walks away.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, DAY
[The city appears from the cloak.]
FADE OUT
END CREDITS
Transcribed for Stargate Solutions by Lahela, August 2010.
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--Michelle 05:23, 28 August 2010 (UTC)