STARCRAFT
Caption: 2438
Scene opens with stars, then panning down to a brown planet.
Caption: A Remote Terran Outpost
Scene cuts, it is the planet at night, you see it is a desert wasteland with sparse vegetation. Presently, two headlights emerge from the darkness, as they approach you see it is a rugged dune buggy. Scene cuts to inside the vehicle. Two soldiers sit staring out the window, cigarettes hang from their lips, one is massive with an unpleasant face, the other thin and gangly with greecy wiry hair. Twangy banjo music plays on the radio. The thinner one turns.
Soldier: Aw Sarge, what we always gotta listen to this shit for?
Sargent: Cause I'm in charge, that's why!
Soldier: (grumbling) Well that aint no kinda good reason....
He squints into the darkness, suddenly a massive shape emerges, leaping into the vehicles path, with a loud crash, the buggy strikes the creature, coming to a stop. The doors open and the two step out, the Sargent igniting a flash light, you see a strange creature laying in the road way, it is bestial but also insectoid, plates of articulated exoskeleton still twitch in its death throws.
Soldier: Aw hell Sarge! Looks like you mashed some poor fellers dog!
Sargent: It's a Zergling Lester! Smaller type of Zerg, but they wouldn't be out this far unless...oh shit...
There is a deep menacing growl from the darkness, the two turn and a pack of monstrous Zerg loom over them, many are like the small raptor Zergling laying dead at their feet but a few are monstrous snake like Hydralisk with massive triceratops like skull and bladed arms.
The Zerg lunge forward and tear the two soldiers apart.
Scene change, it is the wasteland, as far as the eye can see, dust and barren rock. Presently, a dust cloud is seen in the distance, it resolves into a mechanized Vulture bike, riding it is an epic figure in power armor, his visor down. He speeds into the main frame, coming to a stop at the crest of a hill, he pulls up his vulture and steps off, his visor slides open, revealing a middle aged balding man with stubbly beard, a resolute and honest look about his face, he surveys the wasteland in the distance.
Raynor: Command, this is Marshall Raynor, sector 4 is all clear....wait...
He squints into the distance...presently you a see shapes moving in the lowlands, they are Zerg, tiny and distant in the valley bellow.
Raynor: It's just like I said, the lowlands are crawling with them, we have to call for backup...
Radio: Sir...the Confederacy has already denied our requests..
Raynor: (Sighing) I know...it's just...what the hell are we supposed to do? Sit back while these folks get slaughtered?
Radio: I dunno sir.
Raynor: Right...I'm heading back now, just..keep the command center secure....
Radio: Roger that.
He sighs again and throwing one more glance down into the valley, steps back onto his Vulture bike and accelerates away.
Scene cuts, it is a base camp, you see a massive command center towering over other buildings, various vehicles and personnel go about tasks. You see Raynor's vulture pull up and he steps off, entering the command center.
Scene cuts, inside the command center, you see a few officers going about tasks, Raynor enters and they turn and greet him.
Marine: Marshall...
Raynor: At ease gentlemen....any news?
Marine: None sir......Zerg attacks have intensified...we estimate they will start encroaching on the Chau Sara settlments within a day.
Raynor: Damn...that colony has to hold.....get me every able bodied soldier we have...and round up every power suit, every bike or utility vehicle, we leave for Chau Sara in the hour...
Marine: Yes sir!
Raynor: Lets hope it's enough.....
Scene cuts. You see a large colony...it is a massive network of domes and buildings, obviously home to thousands of people, scene cuts and you see marines in power armor patrolling the walls, scene cuts again and it is in the darkness, the colony in the distance, suddenly you hear growling and see insectoid limbs against the sky, Zerg are moving in the badlands.
Presently you see a massive caravan of Terrans, their lights carve a pathway through the darkness, you see Jim Raynor at their head on his Vulture bike. They stop as the Chau Sara colony comes into view. You can see the tracers and flare of gunfire, the shots just audible.
Raynor: It's already begun..come on! Lets move!
The convoy speeds on with renewed haste.
Scene cuts, you see the gates of the Chau Sara colony, it is under heavy assault by the Zerg, Zergling throw themselves against the defenses and are blown apart only to be replaced double. Hydralisk spit acid spines tearing through the suits of the defenders and rending them apart.
The marines fight with valor, laying down vollies of fire, but the waves of Zerg surge forward, suddenly from the darkness Raynor and his convey emerge, they level rifles and the vultures unleash canister rifles that tear the attacking Zerg apart, Firebats unleash flame blasts and waves of Zergling are burned to a crisp, the defenders cheer and Raynors troops enter Chau Sara, joining the defenders.
Scene cuts, you see the command center, it is damaged and sparsely occupied, one officer is in command, his power armor scorched and a trickle of blood flows down his brow. Raynor enters with one of his officers.
Raynor: You in command?
Marine: Until someone else shows up...
Raynor: I'm Marshall down in the wastelands, we got overrun by the Zerg a few days ago, heard you might need some assistance...
Marine: Only if you came with a miracle from god...
They are silent for a moment.
Raynor: I've never been the religious type....
Marine: (With a shell shocked look) These Zerg....there not like anything we've seen, they come strait out of the void, like some kinda boogyman from the fairy tales, not real life...
Raynor: Keep your head on strait soldier, this things only getting worse from here....
In answer there is renewed gun fire from outside, you hear soldiers shouting, the radio crackles to life.
Radio: Another wave...its...oh god...we need backup...
Raynor looks at the marine with a serious look.
Raynor: Come on... this is it...
They move outside
Scene changes, it is outside, you see the desperate battle, Zerg threaten to overrun the inner defenses, Raynor and the officer join the battle, it is desperate but the Terrans hold out, you see a soldier approach the officer, she is dressed differently, part of the ghost division of special operations, complete with a thermoptic camouflage suit capable of invisibility and a heavy gage rifle of superior power.
She steps forward.
Kerrigan: Sir...when can I speak with my superior?
Marine: I told you...command hasn't responded to any messages in 36 hours...if they do Major, I promise you will be the first to know.
She nods.
Kerrigan: Well...damn...we really are stranded out here...those bastards...
She turns and sees Raynor.
Kerrigan: Who the hell are you?
Raynor: The name is Jim Raynor...I'm a Marshall around these parts...I guess now I'm a soldier fighting the Zerg...
Kerrigan: Huh...well, the name is Sarah Kerrigan...Ghost division. I was here on special research...and now..well...I'm a soldier fighting the Zerg.
Raynor: It's a pleasure to meet you.
Kerrigan: Well...dispense with the pleasantries...this place is about to be overrun...we only have one option....the Sons of Korhal...
Marine: The terrorist organization?
Kerrigan: You mean the freedom fighters...the only ones who are fighting the Zerg...who are willing to stand up to the Confederacy's bullshit!
Marine: Ya...ok...but how do we contact them?
Kerrigan: I got it...the signal is already sent!
Raynor: Damn...that's treason..
Kerrigan: Ya, well, fuck the Confederacy...if you got a problem with that...eat a frag...
Raynor: I got no problem...just, I think your brave is all.
Kerrigan: You would... damn... you have a dirty mind!
Raynor: Hey! I didn't say nothing!
Kerrigan: You were thinking it...
Raynor: Damn ghosts....I don't believe in no kinda psychic bullshit...
Kerrigan: (Laughing) Ya...believe what you want!
Raynor: I will...still sister...you better make good on this promise of reinforcements..otherwise were all toast!
Kerrigan: We need only wait...
As if in answer lights shine down from the sky, drop ships land and open, the evacuation begins. Kerrigan looks at Raynor and smiles as if to say told you so, they run to the ships. Scene cuts, it is inside a command center, a serious looking middle aged man with dark hair and a full beard sits pondering over a series of reports, presently Kerrigan and Reynor enter.
Mengks: (With southern drawl) Good, good, I'm glad you could join us...my name is Arcturs Mengsk, i'm the leader of the Sons of Korhol, we believe in fighting the domination of the confederacy...by any means necessary.
Kerrigan: Thanks for the rescue....
Raynor: So...whats the battle plan...we have to go back...there's other colonies ...
Mengks: Though I appreciate your enthusiasm..i'm afraid the planet was destroyed...by an unknown alien fleet...
Kerrigan: What...is it?
Mengks: The Protoss....
Raynor: Who?
Mengks: A savage alien race from a distant world...suffice to say, they are no friend to the zerg...but no ally of ours as well.
Raynor: Those people...
Mengks: There will be more...if we don't act...we are all that stands between the zerg...and the confederacy's inaction.
Kerrigan: I.....I know about...something....
Raynor: What is it?
Kerrigan: A laboratory...not far from here...there is something there, something that can help us defeat our enemies...
Mengks: You're going to have to give me more to go on than a few half rumors...
Kerrigan: It's...something called a Psy emitter...the confederacy...they've known about the zerg..for quite some time.
Mengks: I see...and what does this...Psy emitter...do?
Kerrigan: It controls the Zerg...lures them to wherever the emitter is planted.
Mengks: Ahhh!
Raynor: That's crazy...you're talking about turning the Zerg into a weapon!
Mengks: We have no choice, Major...prepare for your mission.
Raynor: (To himself) This is a terrible idea....
They turn away. Scene changes, you see everyone is prepared for battle. Raynor has his power armor and Kerrigan her Ghost equipment. They stand at an air lock with a group of marines and a technician in SCV utility power armor, it's awkward bulk hovering on orange thrusters behind the other troops.
Radio: Fifteen seconds.
Marine: Acknowledged...weapons at the ready....
You hear a loud crunch, then the door mechanism engages, turning and then sliding open, there are a few confederate marines in the doorway, they look puzzled.
Confederate: What the hell? We weren't expecting a shipment until...
The rebels open fire, the marines are blown away, Kerrigan and Raynor fight with fury, the confederates are pushed back, the rebels move into the facility. They fight their way down corridors, the confederates are pushed back at every turn, you see the rebels come upon a large hatchway with a data pad.
Kerrigan: Weird...this one is heavy encryption....wait...ok...got it...
The doors slide open...the rebels are face to face with half a dozen Zerg, six Zergling, five Hydralisk and one massive towering Ultraliks, like an elephant with massive blade arms. The zerg charge and the marines open fire, a terrible battle ensues, you see Kerrigan throw a sarcastic smile at Raynor, then she vanishes, her thermoptic cloak engaged. Jim sighs and unleashes his rifle on the Zerg, dodging acid spikes and Zergling claws, the Ultralisk tears through troops, finally, they bring it down, the battle is over, half the troops are dead. Kerrigan emerges.
Raynor: What the hell...the confederacy keeping Zerg for pets?
Radio: This is Mengks...what the hell happened down there...
Kerrigan: Zerg...looks like the confederacy has taken interest in them.
Radio: Well be careful...the command center is just ahead.
Kerrigan: Acknowledged.
She looks at Raynor and smiles.
Kerrigan: Well...this is it...you ready?
Raynor: You know it sister.
Kerrigan: Lets rolls!
She levels her rifle and moves out, the team follows her, now just two dozen or so strong.
Scene cuts, you see the confederate laboratory, scientists in lab coats go about tasks, there are a few guards, suddenly the door opens, it is the rebels, the guards surrender, they are lead out with the scientists, hands on their heads. Kerrigan moves to a central console, Raynor looking over her shoulder.
Kerrigan: This is it...the Psy emitter...its in storage block three, just two corridors left!
A marine nods and turns, the technician and a few other following him.
Kerrigan: I'm downloading the data base...hold on...
They sit in silence for a moment, then suddenly gun fire erupts from down the hallway, they turn as the group of marines run back into the room, firing as they run, the SCV zips past them, it's orange jets blazing, in its manipulator arms is a large utility crate. A marine fires down the hallway but is hit by armor peircing round which tear through his suit, he falls dead.
Kerrigan: (Yelling to Raynor) We got it, lets get the hell out of here!
They run out of the room, firing their guns at the troopers. Scene cuts, you see them running down a coridore, Confederate marines on their tail, Raynor and Kerrigan turn as the SCV moves ahead, with the last of their marines they lay down fire on their enemies, desperately trying to buy the SCV time to escape, Raynor and Kerrigan dodge into an alcove as another marine falls.
Kerrigan: Jimmy! Look out!
She pushes him out of the way as bullets ricochet past them, the battle intensifies. You see Kerrigan laying on top of Raynor, his face almost comically small in his power armor, Kerrigan looks at him with longing and sorrow.
Kerrigan: Sorry...
Raynor: Wait!!
Kerrigan vanishes, her thermoptic armor activated, Raynor is suddenly alone. Confederate marines are on top of him, guns pointed at his head.
Marine: Freeze!
You see Rayoner helpless with his hands up. Scene cuts, Raynor is being dragged into a prison cell, his power armor removed. He lays prostrate on the floor, looking bedraggled and defeated.
Scene change, you see Raynor bound to a post in the center of a room, he has been beaten. The door opens and a confederate officer enters.
Officer: (Consulting tablet) James...Raynor. Marshall. Discharged from the military for...insubordination.
Raynor: You confederate scum...get on with it.
Officer: (Laughing) Oh...we will..don't get over enthusiastic.
The door opens and attendants carry a tray of torture devices, the Officer smiles cruelly.
Raynor: I don't know anything.
Officer: (Pulling out a taser) Even better.
He plunges the taser into Raynor chest, he cries out in pain. Camera back out of the room. Scene changes, you see Raynor, now near unconscious, bleeding from various wounds. The confederate officer enters again with an attendant.
Officer: This one is almost finished. Bring me the knives.
The attendant bows and leaves. The officer stares at Raynor.
Officer: You didn't break...yet....we will see what the end of you life will show us...
The door opens, the confederate officer turns, expecting to see the attendant, instead it is Kerrigan.
Officer: What the hell....?
Kerrigan steps forward without a word and levels a pistol at his head, the shot resounds off the walls of the tiny room, the officer is thrown back against the wall and crumples to the ground, instantly dead.
Raynor: Sarah....
Kerrigan: You sure got yourself into a bind...
She goes quickly to him and cuts the chain, supporting him as he falls to the floor, weak from starvation and torture.
Raynor: Thank you....
Kerrigan: Don't think this makes us even...you still owe me one...
Raynor: I owe you a hundred...
Kerrigan: Don't say that! Come on...lets get out of here.
She slings his arm over her shoulder and walks him out the door.
Scene cuts, it is Mengsk's office, he sits at his desk, Kerrigan stands in front of him with her arms crossed.
Mengsk: You've done well, the psy emitter is a valuable prize.
Kerrigan: And what do you intend to do with your..prize?
Mengsk: I intend to end this war once and for all! I will destroy the confederacy and all who stand in my way!
Kerrigan: Then what...declare yourself Emperor?
Mengsk: (Laughing) Maybe I will...maybe I will...but first...I need you to do something for me. Our fleet is approaching the confederate capital world of Tarsonis. I want you to deploy the Psy emitter personally.
Kerrigan: Tarsonis? Are you insane? Ten million people live there! Civilians!
Mengsk: The breathing heart of the confederacy, we need to strike a blow from which they can never recover! Then...from the ashes... a new order will rise...
Kerrigan: Why me?
Mengsk: Because, we need to use discretion, the people need to welcome us as saviors when we eradicate the Zerg...they can never know the truth about what happened here...
Kerrigan is silent.
Kerrigan: If I do this....you need to promise me something.
Mengsk: (Raising his eyebrow) And what is that?
Kerrigan: Me...and Jimmy... our people...were out. We do this..and then were gone. Understand?
Mengsks is silent for a moment, there is a steely glint in his eye.
Mengsk: Agreed. Do this for me..and your free to go.
Kerrigan nods.
Kerrigan: I'll get it done.
Mengsk: See that you do.
He sits back in his chair and Kerrigan turns and walks out. Scene change, you see Kerrigan in full combat gear walking toward the hanger, suddenly Raynor is behind her.
Raynor: Sarah...what are you doing?
Kerrigan: I'm ending this war...don't try to stop me Jimmy.
Raynor: Just...wait, you don't have to do this! He's using you!
Kerrigan: I can handle myself! You don't have to rescue me Jim! Just...stop it.
She turns away.
Raynor: Sarah...be careful.
Kerrigan: (Smiling slightly) I will....see you around Marshall.
She walks into the hanger and the door closes, Raynor stands silently.
Scene cuts, it is a urban world, you see city in the skyline, a might battle is underway, you see marines in various positions firing into the horizon, nearby, a siege tank fires round after round into the distance. Presently Kerrigan enters, you see a Marine approuch her.
Marine: (Yelling over gun fire) Major! The payload is this way!
Kerrigan follows the marine, An SCV utility powersuit hovers awkwardly on orange jets, its massive robotic arms grip a utility crate.
Kerrigan: Captain! Tell your men to push forward! Lay down as much cover fire as you can! And tell that artillary to cut it out!
Marine: Yes Ma'am!
You see the marine turn and issue commands to his squad, the siege tank stops firing, Kerrigan turns and narrows her eyes, camera zooms in on the box, shot has an ominous feel.
Scene cuts again, you see the squad moving out and firing machine guns, they press ahead, then, Kerrigan walks with her rifle in hand, the SCV floating behind her with the crate. You see the Marines taking up positions ahead, the captain approaches Kerrigan.
Marine: Were encountering heavy resistance!
Kerrigan: We need to get at least 150 meters north! Tell you're men to create a perimiter! Push forward at all cost!
The captain salutes and moves off, you see the Marines pressing forward, several fall, massive armor piercing rounds cutting through their bulky power armor sending them collapsing to the ground. They push forward, Kerrigan follows. Finally, the marines fan out and create a perimiter, taking cover and firing at enemies in all directions. You see Kerrigan turn to the SCV.
Kerrigan: Set her down!
The robotic arms lower the crate to the ground, then the SCV turns and scoots away, high tailing it back to base on orange jets. Kerrigan approuches the crate, pushing a few buttons on a control panel the box slides open, revealing a complex device resembling multiple satalite dishes set around a base. Sliding the devise to the ground, Kerrigan presses a few buttons. The top begins to spin, turing faster and faster, it whirs to life, then beeps to confirm it is fully functional. Kerrigan sighs, then presses the radio control.
Kerrigan: This is ghost one. Package is in place...repeat...package is in place. If you can hear me Arcturus...i did it.
She stands for a moment, there is silence from the radio, you hear the gun battle raging around her. Scene cuts, it is the bridge of Mengsk's ship. He stands overlooking the planet, the battle raging on the ground can be seen from orbit.
Operator: Sir..should we launch drop ships?
Mengsk: No..no...i don't think so...pilot, take us out of orbit.
Raynor steps forward, he has been watching from the shadows.
Raynor: You...son of a bitch! You're abandoning her! To the zerg!
Mengsk: We all must make sacrifices.... for the greater good.
Raynor: (Yelling) This is bullshit! You launch those god damn drop ships!
He leaps at Mengsk, two security guards tackle him and drag him screaming from the room. Mengsk stands silently.
Scene changes, you see Kerrigan standing by the Psy emitter, shot is from above, she looks up into the sky as if expecting a ship, you see the marines still in position around her, suddenly you hear bestial roaring in the darkness, the marines fire their guns, camera pans upwards, Kerrigan continues to stare up at the sky, following the camera despite the chaos around her, lighting strikes, illuminating the surroundings, you see the city around the defenders teaming with Zerg, they close in, screen goes black.
Scene cuts. The screen buzzes with static, as if it is suddenly a broadcast being received, you see the logo of a TV channel, then the red crest of the Dominion, Mengsk's new empire. A caption reads "Coronation speech of Emperor Mengsk The Ist." Mengsk stands at a massive podium in front of a crowd.
Mengsk: Greetings...Terrans. ...Citizens of the Dominion. I come before you today, not as a conqueror, but as a fellow Terran. In recent days we have all been witness to the alien threat, the nightmarish Zerg, the cold calculating ruthlessness of the Protoss. (Video shows images of the war) Catastrophic! Unprecedented, these enemies have come from the depths of space to destroy us and everything we stand for, yet, I say to you, we will prevail! The Confederacy is no more. Yet from the ashes has risen the mighty Dominion! From this day forward, let no Terran fight any other Terran, for we must unite against the common enemy. Together, we will go forward, to victory...and from the high tower...I will watch over you.
The music builds to a crescendo with the drums of war accenting the images of battle, then with Mengks's final words, the music hits a deep and ominous note, the beat slows to a simple rhythm, like a heart beat, you see a majestic Terran city shining, the banners of the Dominion fly from a high tower. Then, the screen goes black, the heartbeat drum continues, it slows, its rhythm eerie, then a sinister voice pierces the silence, it is twisted and guttural, deep and monstrous, alien and terrifying.
Overmind: Kerrigan.
Scene cuts to Kerrigans face, she is immersed in a chrysalis, tentacles dig into her skin and face, she is immersed in some orangeish fluid. Suddenly, her eyes pop open, her pupils white, unseeing, she tries to move but cannot.
Overmind: Awaken, my child, and embrace the glory that is your birth right. Know that I am the Overmind, the eternal will of the swarm, and that you have been created to serve me. Soon, you will awaken into the swarm and become among the greatest of my agents. Sleep...now..and soon, your time will come...
Scene zooms out as the Overmind speaks, you see Kerrigan encased in a chrysalis on a barren, volcanic planet, zooming out more and more you see fire in the distance, it is a modeled black and orange world, Char, the Zerg homeworld.
Scene cuts, it is a barren planet, you see Terran marines working their way down a canyon, at the head you see Jim Raynor. They move cautiously as if expecting ambush.
Marine: Scanners show movement on the ridge top.
Raynor: Stay sharp!
Scene backs out, you see Zergling moving along the canyon walls, suddenly they pour down the sides toward the terrans who open fire.
Raynor: Keep moving! We need to get to cover!
The marines run with power suit enhanced speed down the canyon, the Zergling trailing behind them, the marines take pot shots at the Zerg who gain on them. The canyon grows tighter, coming around a bend, the Marines run strait into a band of Protoss warriors, about a dozen or so, they tower of the Marines, their long mouth less faces with grey modeled skin and glowing blue eyes seem alien and menacing, they wear strange gold armor which encircles their body in rings, providing a personal shield. Their legs are reptilian and bent backwards, giving a strange appearance.
The marines point weapons but the lead Protoss holds up his hand.
Fenix: Wait!
His voice is deep but strange and flat with an airy quality, almost artificial, he speaks in perfect english.
Fenix: We are not your enemies.
Marine: Hell if you get to decide that!
He points his weapons but Raynor places his armored hand over it and forces the barrel down.
Raynor: Wait, were both outnumbered, we need to join forces.
Fenix: A wise choice Terran. I am Preator Fenix, leader of the ground forces in this sector.
Raynor: So ...not the boys who've been burning our planets?
Fenix: Indeed we are not. Our Executor Tassadar is somewhat... ruthless.
Raynor: I'll say. Come on lets keep moving.
Fenix: The Zerg are approaching from the south as well.
Raynor: Damn, we need to make a stand!
Fenix: If we die in battle it will be with honor!
Raynor: (Shouldering his rifle) Well, that's one way to look at it! Boys! make two lines, one north, one south!
They scramble to form two lines facing outward from a central point, The Protoss warriors stand behind the Marines. You see Zergling approaching the firing line, the Marines on the north open fire, then the south facing marines as well as Zerg close in from both sides, the battle is furious, you see Hydralisk spitting spikes to hit a marine before bullets tear it apart and the monster falls dead. The Protoss still stand at the ready but don't move.
Marine: Cap! Almost outa ammo!
Raynor: Keep firing! Get ready for melee combat!
Zergling reach the line. The Protoss warriors leap forward and ignite blue psy blades from their arms, they leap forward and cut down the Zergling like butter, a Hydralisk spits acid spikes but they ricochet harmlessly off the energy shield of a Protoss, the warrior sprints forward, leg augmentations granting him incredible speed, he is upon the Hydralisk and slices it neatly in two with a psy blade. The battle rages. Suddenly, a drop ship speeds down into the center of the defenders, a hatch opens.
Raynor: Come on! That's our ride!
He turns to Fenix.
Raynor: Need a lift?
Fenix nods and gestures to his warriors, the marines fire the last of their ammo covering the Protoss retreat and then run to the drop ship, lifting off just in time to avoid Zergling claws.
Scene cuts, it is a council chamber within a Protoss command ship, the room is strange and alien, a massive hall with looming ceiling and giant pillars, a strange motif of gold and blue, light and shadow juxtapositioned. Protoss warriors line the hall, a few Templars, dressed in ornate robes, sit in an inner circle. Presently, Fenix and his attendants enter, Raynor and a few marines follow.
Protoss: En taro Adun Preator...(Seeing Raynor) You have brought strangers into the Conclave...
Fenix: These Terran are great warriors, they could be valuable allies against the Zerg.
Protoss: You're taking great liberties with our good will Fenix, when the Judicator hears of this he will not be pleased.
Fenix: (Angry) The Judicator should leave matters of war to those fighting on the ground, not sitting back on Aiur.
Protoss: The council has tolerated your insolence for a long time, but a day may come when you are no longer allowed that privilege...
Fenix: Only once I have defeated the Zerg...on that day I will accept whatever punishment the council has in store for me.
Fenix turns in the Protoss equivalent of wrath, his eyes flash and he nods to Raynor, Fenix and his Protoss followed by Raynor's Marines walk out of the chamber, the Templars watch them with cool calculation.
Scene changes, it is another Protoss council chamber, only smaller, you see Fenix sitting with a dozen warriors, Raynor sits across from him with a half dozen marines.
Fenix: The situation is desperate, by refusing to make allies we have doomed ourselves, Judicator Aldaris is a great warrior but he is proud, his mind traditional. To him, joining with any alien race would be seen as treason to the Protoss people themselves. As well he will not hear any talk of directly challenging the Zerg, instead , maintaining our isolation and relative neutrality, only destroying the Zerg when they encroach into our sphere of influence..
Raynor: I for one am fed up with these generals sitting around in high places deciding if we get to live or die...
Fenix: I as well, master Raynor, that's why my allies have been planning a direct invasion of the Zerg home world Char. We would be honored if you would join us in the attack.
Raynor: Zerg home world? This just keeps getting better and better....Ya...of course i'm in...wouldn't miss it for the world.
Fenix: Good...good, Char is a battered and broken world, your warriors must prepare every advantage. I will signal my allies and rally our fleet. We depart this system in twelve hours.
Raynor: That should be enough time to get the Raiders geared up, alright, we'll be there.
Fenix: May Adun watch over you.
Raynor: ....and you.
Scene changes, it is space, you see a massive Protoss carrier ship, it is long, almost flower shaped with massive petal like fins curved around its surface, coming to an open crest at the front where the bridge of the ship emerges from the central super structure. Around the carrier fly dozens of smaller scout fighters, then you see a wing of Terran drop ships surrounded by a dozen or so wraith fighters, their wings like soaring birds of prey with a stinger like gun on its down thrust tail. The ships fly together in formation.
Scene changes, it is the bridge of the carrier, various Protoss go about tasks, standing on the upper deck you see Fenix and a few other Protoss. A view screen buzzes to life, you see Jim Raynor's face, he is wearing power armor.
Raynor: All strapped in here boys, you ready for warp space?
Fenix: Affirmative.
Raynor: Then hold onto something...and good luck...
Scene cuts back to space and the ship's engines glow, then they shoot off into the distance and vanish one by one, tunneling through warp space on their long journey to the distant Char.
Scene changes, it is the planet Char, it's surface is modeled with volcanic activity and lava flow, in orbit you see a group of Zerg, some are massive bulk Overlords floating along blissfully, their transport pouches bulging with Zerg warriors, around them fly a cloud of bat like Mutalisk, their shrimp like bodies curve toward a fanged mouth at the front, their leathery wings tucked back for space flight.
Suddenly, the Protoss carrier emerges from hyperspace, with it the scouts and wraiths, without waiting they open fire, the wraiths fire red laser bolts, incinerating any Zerg hit, the scouts launch a series of missiles with glowing blue tails, they scoot across space and tear through the Zerg. From the carrier issues a mass of tiny drone fighters, they swarm in synchronized patterns and unleash a torrent of fire upon the Zerg, which are decimated without much chance to fight back.
The fleet now descends into orbit, you see fighters peeling away to intercept targets, finally, the fleet reaches the ground. Dropships land and 100 or so Terran marines disembark, creating a perimeter. The carrier lands and hundreds of Protoss warriors join them, most are equipped like Fenix's warriors, however some seem to float on a cloud of blue energy, their whole bodies shining with a strange inner fire. They are the Templars, only a few of whome have joined Fenix, yet their presence is unmissable. Then there are a dozen spidery robotic Dragoons, their bulk towers over the other Protoss, massive ion cannons sit at the center, rotating this way and that, the four segmented legs moving gracefully across the ground. There are also two robotic reavers, like giant segmented catterpillers crawling their way accross the ground, they carry smart artillary "Scarabs" which can fly self directed to a target up to 5 miles away and detonate with the power of a mini nuke.
Raynor and his Marines watch in awe as the Protoss move out, their organization and expertise obvious. Overhead the Scouts and Wraiths patrol, intercepting the occasional Mutalisk. Other wise, the Zerg have yet to respond to their presence. You see Fenix making his way toward Raynor.
Fenix: Marshall, our forces are ready to move out, there is a massive hive cluster 7 miles north west.
Raynor: (nodding) Alright, ready to move out anytime.
Fenix nods and turns, a few moments later, the massive army moves out, scouts run to a nearby ridge top. Raynor signals his troops and they follow in formations. Scene zooms out, you see the horizon, the sun shines brightly over the barren volcanic wasteland. Scene cuts again, you see Marines walking along, Raynor at their head, suddenly they look down and lift up their feet.
Marine: What the hell...it's like the ground is....
Raynor: Alive..
Camera pans down and you see the ground covered in a strange flesh like substance, grotesque roots and veins run through it, it seems to pulsate.
Marine: My god...
You see Fenix approaching with a group of warriors.
Fenix: We're getting close, this is the creep, a living mat into which the zerg root their structures, at the center of the hive cluster it is over 10 meters thick...
Raynor: Damn...well...let's get this over with...
Fenix nods and they move off, presently you see them setting up a temporary base camp under the crest of a hill.
Fenix: The Reavers can provide us with maximum support from this position, once the bombardment begins, a squadron of my warriors will attack from the flank, stay here and hold this position at all costs. When the zerg retreat, only then attack.
Raynor: (Nods) Ok...be careful out there Preator.
Fenix: You as well, good luck.
Fenix turns and you see a massive group of Protoss follow him down a valley away from the camp.
Raynor: Alright men, fortify this hilltop! Let's go, on the double!
Scene changes, you see the defenders ready for battle, marines line the hilltop which has been dug out with foxholes and bunkers, they point rifles into the distance.
Radio: (Fenix) We are in position, begin the bombardment.
Without a word the two Reavers open fire, from the front "mouth" area each spits a large metallic object about a meter in diameter, it floats forward on a glowing blue trail, hovering for a moment, then suddenly blasts away into the distance, a few moments pass, then you see a blue fireball on the horizon, then another. The Reavers fire a second round, then a third. Finally after eight or so, they stop.
Protoss: Ammunition depleted, restoration cycle beginning. Twelve minutes until firing recommences.
Raynor: Now...we wait..
Suddenly you hear a distant sound, it is a high pitched shrieking, growing in loudness, there are roars and gutteral utterances.
Marine: We got movement, two miles out but closing fast....it's...god damn sir..
Suddenly the marines head explodes, literally, spraying out of his helmet, he doesn't have time to scream, two worm like Zerg Broodlings slither from what remains of his body, they set upon the other marines, tearing into them with claws and teeth, they fire at the monsters, leaving them bullet ridden and dead. Turning, you see the Zerg forces almost upon them. Suddenly a Zergling leaps over the wall, its massive arms reach forward, claws yearning to tear into the nearest Terran, but it is riddled with machine gun fire and falls back. Then twenty others leap forward, the battle rages. You see Hydralisk spitting acid, a marine throws a grenade and ten Zerg are destroyed, only to be replaced. You see Raynor rallying his troops in the back, Protoss run to engage the front lines, Dragoons fire energy cannons from high positions.
Suddenly, without warning, an orange cloud of smoke engulfs the battlefield, Marines lower visors and fire on the Zerg, but something is different. It is not smoke, but an oily thick swarm, almost alive. Within it, light is almost extinguished. Zergling rush forward and Marines fire weapons, but the swarm seems to stick to the bullets, slowing them, they have little or no effect on the Zergling who tear into the marines. Suddenly the line realizes their weapons are no longer effective. Ion blasts dissipate in the swarm. Protoss psy blades flicker and die. The defenders retreat. You see the Reavers turn to make a slow escape but the Zergling are upon them, ripping them apart.
Raynor: To the drop ships! Now! Fenix, if you're still out there, we've underestimated the Zerg....
Suddenly massive shapes emerge ahead of them, giant elephantine Ultralisks, their bladed arms sweep through the fleeing defenders, Protoss and Terran alike are butchered, now out of the orange smoke, the defenders weapons again function but they take heavy losses, finally cutting their way through the Ultralisks.
Reaching the ship they find a perimeter guard fighting off Zerg from all directions.
Raynor: Captain, lets get the hell out of here!
Marine: Sir!
He points in the distance, you see a dark cloud approaching in the sky.
Raynor: What the hell...
It resolves into hundreds of individual shapes, floating in the air, coming menacingly closer. They are like giant flying crabs complete with legs and pincers.
Raynor: Fire!
The marines aim rifles as the approaching monsters but they do little to slow the hoard of Guardians, suddenly they unleash a torrents of acid bolts, the shots tear through the carrier, again and again until it is utterly destroyed, the Terran drop ships suffer the same fate.
Radio: (Fenix) Marshall, our attack has failed, we are inbound to your position. Hold the ships at all cost.
Raynor: ...We just lost the carrier, some kind of air attack, it's like nothing I've every seen.
Fenix: Then tonight we sleep with Adun! Prepare yourselves...
Raynor turns grimly and continues the fight, the Zerg press in, it seems hopeless. Suddenly Fenix and his warriors break into the circle, they are only a few dozen and seem harried, closing the line the defense continues, hopeless as ever.
Suddenly, the smoke clears, you see Jim Raynor stop and turn, almost instinctively. Standing behind the Zerg line, her silhouette clear against the sky, is Sarah Kerrigan...transformed. Great bat wings rising from her shoulders without skin stretched between them, Claws extending from the tips of each finger. Her body is overgrown with the Zerg, her skin an indescribable modeled array of colors, her eyes pupil-less, almost glowing, her lips curve in a cruel smile.
Raynor: (In horror) Sarah?
Kerrigan: (In a voice from your nightmares) Hey Jimmy...I'm back.
She leaps forward with inhuman speed and plunges claws into a marines head, killing him instantly, she turns and grapples with a Protoss warrior, psy blades flash but she is faster, catching his arms and throwing him to the ground, she crushes his chest through his energy shield and armor.
Raynor turns his rifle and with tears of fury in his eyes, opens fire. Kerrigan smiles, then vanishes, Raynor's bullets pass through nothing. He cries out with rage and pain.
The battle rages on, the defenders pushed back more and more, on the brink of defeat, then, suddenly, Zerg fall left and right, as if by a hidden hand, their is a woosh and a Hydralisk falls away, cut down by an invisible blade. Suddenly strange Protoss warriors appear throughout the group, they are dressed in rags and their faces covered. One steps toward Fenix.
Zeratul: Adun Turadas Preator.
Raynor: What the hell?
Fenix: The...Dark Templar.
Zeratul: Peace be upon you, my name is Prelate Zeratul, we come not to reopen the wounds of old, but to offer an alliance.
Fenix: An alliance! But what can you renegades possibly offer us? With the full might of the Khalia?
Zeratul: We offer you...a means to slay the cursed Overmind.
Fenix: Overmind?
Zeratul: You see, you cannot possibly fight what you do not know.
Fenix: (Suspicious) Tell me more...
Zeratul: As you know...long ago my people cut off our connection with the world crystal, the Khala as you know it, and returned to the primal void energies which were our original source of power...
Fenix: And in so doing allowed the energies of the void to corrupt the Khala!
Zeratul: No...no Praetor, it was not we who did this, for when we reconnected with the energies of the void, we found...another had come to dwell in our ancestral home.
Fenix: What do you mean? Tell me now...
Zeratul: I mean the Zerg, Fenix! When the Templars left the void energy and moved to channel only the refined energy of the Khala, we made ourselves vulnerable, and the Overmind now feeds off this energy.
Raynor: What is this Overmind thing you keep mentioning?
Zeratul: It is the collective mind of the Zerg, an entity which controls the disparate hives. If it is destroyed, the Zerg will fall...but..this can only be done with the energy and techniques of the Dark Templar.
Fenix: Lies! You're only trying to justify you're betrayal of the Khala!
Zeratul: It is not I who have betrayed the Khala, it is the Templars themselves!
Raynor: Alright boys, lets reign it in! We still got a battle to win.
Turning you see the Zerg are pressing in again and the warriors fight desperately. Suddenly, spot lights shine from above, you see a dozen Protoss carriers, they deploy interceptors and tear into the Zerg.
Scene cuts, you see Fenix, Zeratul and Rayonor looking up at the ships, their expressions hard and unreadable.
Scene cuts, it is on the command deck of a Carrier, you see a Protoss standing, looking out over a massive fleet in orbit. Presently another Protoss approaches.
Protoss: Executor Tassadar, the ground invasion was being lead by.... Preator Fenix. There was a detachment of Terrans with them, Marines lead by a... Jim Raynor. But also, we captured a group of..Dark Templar.
Tassadar: The Nerazim!
Protoss: It seems they were here on a separate offensive attempting to destroy the Zerg.
Tassadar: Hmm...we will have to determine Fenix's level of involvement...bring them before me....the Terran to.
Protoss: Yes Executor.
Scene cuts, Tassadar sits in a chair like a throne, Raynor, Fenix and Zeratul are brought before him. Zeratul is in chains, the other are free.
Tassadar: En taro Adun Praetor, odd company you're keeping these days.
Fenix: Executor! I humbly take responsibility for my actions against the Zerg, and allying myself with this..human. He has proven himself worthy by my side in battle. But I do not condone the actions of the Dark Templar! I have always been loyal to the Khala and to the Conclave!
Tassadar: (Nodding) I believe you, Praetor, I believe you....but what of this one, and his followers. If I allow them to live, it could be dangerous. What have you to say for yourself, Dark Templar?
Zeratul raises his head, he looks strong and proud, still dressed only in rags.
Zeratul: Greetings, Executor. My name is Prelate Zeratul of the Dark Templar. I come before you today, not as an enemy, but offering the hand of friendship, so that we might strike down our common enemy together, otherwise I fear Aiur itself could be overrun.
Tassadar: What care you of Aiur?
Zeratul: It is still my homeworld, and I do not desire for the Khala's destruction, only freedom from it's grasp.
Tassadar: And what is this so called... Overmind?
Zeratul: The collective intelligence of all the Zerg, it is the will of the hive cluster, residing within the same psychic space as the Dark Templar draw our energy, only we have seen it's great weakness, only we have the power to destroy it, otherwise, the Overmind and it's Cerebrate minions will regrow from the void.
There is silence, Tassadar is obviously thinking.
Tassadar: If what you say is true....it would mean the Conclave could never permanently destroy the Zerg...
Zeratul: That is correct...
Fenix: Executor! How can you listen to this nonsense? Is it not clear he is lying to save his own neck?
Tassadar: Peace, Praetor, peace. There are many things about this war known only to the Conclave. It is indeed true the powers of Khala have yet been unable to damage a Zerg Cerebrate...
Fenix: What? How can that be?
Tassadar: No slain Cerebrate is every permanently killed...it regrows, as if from nothing...from the void.
Fenix: This...this cannot be...the power of the Khala cannot fail to defend us!
Zeratul: Indeed it already has, we must fall back on the old ways!
Tassadar: We will see about that....however, based on the information provided...I must bring this Dark Templar before the Conclave and make his case...
Fenix: Executor! Surely the Conclave will sentence you to death!
Tassadar: It may be so, but we have all been fighting this war to long. If my death can help put an end to it...then let it be so.
Zeratul: Thank you Executor...May Adun be with you.
Tassadar: And with you.
Scene changes, you see a blue green planet from orbit, presently a Protoss carrier flies past on its way into orbit. Scene cuts, it is a wide shot of a shining Protoss city, its buildings like great curved golden spires jutting up from the depths of a tangled green jungle. Scene cuts, it is the Conclave council chamber, similar in design to the meeting chamber on the carrier but vastly larger. A group of Protoss sit arrayed around a raised section of the room at the far end, they are dressed in fine robes and carry an air of authority. Sitting in the center, as if on a throne, is Judicator Aldaris. He is old, his face visibly wrinkled, his expression hard and unreadable. Presently you see a dozen Protoss guards enter the room, they lead Tassadar and Zeratul forward to stand before Aldaris.
Aldaris: Exector Tassadar...you have brought our gravest enemy into the heart of the conclave, explain your actions!
Tassadar: Judicator...the battle against the Zerg does not go well...they continue to spread deeper into our territory, our warriors have been unable to harm the Cerebrates which control the swarm and continue to rally the Zerg against us. And..what is more..we have learned of the Overmind...like a great Cerebrate who rules over all the others...controls all the Zerg...
Aldaris: What? And who gave you this idea Tassadar? Perhaps it was your incompetence which stopped you slaying the Cerebrates, and now you come before the Conclave with fairy tales of a so called Overmind? And what of this blatant treason?
Tassadar: (Angry) My warriors slew over a dozen Cerebrates, and within days they had regrown! We are facing an unprecedented threat...and these...Dark Templar...have found the key to destroying the Zerg once and for all...
Aldaris: And he told you this?
Zeratul: I speak only the truth..Judicator. What option do you have? Without the power to destroy the Cerebrates...your efforts against the Zerg are doomed.
Aldaris: Presumptuous. This council has stood for over a thousand years... and it will stand a thousand years still...
Tassadar: Aldaris...old friend...you must listen to reason!
Aldaris: Tell me...old friend...when did the words of reason become treason in your mind?
Tassadar: If you arrest us...it will be you who is guilty of treason..and of betraying our whole race...
Aldaris: We will see...Guards! Sieze them.
The guards step forward and move to grab them, they detain Tassadar but the imagine of Zeratul evaporates into a blue smoke, leaving the guards standing empty handed. Tassadar's eyes flash in victory.
Aldaris: (Standing) What? An Illusion!
Tassadar: If you will not destroy the Overmind, Judicator...then others will.
Aldaris: Imprison him! Prepare the execution!
The guards drag away Tassadar and Aldaris returns to his seat, still enraged.
Scene cuts, it is the bridge of a carrier, Fenix stands looking out into space. Presently, Raynor and Zeratul enter.
Raynor: It's all over the network...Tassadar has been sentenced to death.
Zeratul: The Conclave has rejected our offer.
Fenix: As we knew they would, now, Tassadar must die for their foolishness...
Raynor: Hey, I for one am not ready to give up on Tassadar yet, he risked his life trying to help us stop the Zerg, and if there is still any chance of rescuing him...we gotta try it.
Zeratul: He did tell us not to come rescue him...
Raynor: Ya, well, he wasn't really expecting us to listen to that!
Fenix: The Conclave is well guarded, it would mean the death of many Protoss warriors.
Zeratul: If Aiur falls, it will mean the death of many more...
Fenix: But to fight our own people?
Raynor: Trust me...I hate fighting my own people to...but sometimes you have to do whats right over what you want.
Fenix: It is a sacrifice I am willing to make...may Adun forgive us.
Zeratul: Adun would join us...brother.
The two Protoss stand silent for a moment, the depth of the moment lost on Jim Raynor.
Fenix: Then we attack at dawn, for Aiur!
Zeratul! For Aiur!
Scene changes, it is early morning on the Protoss capital, you see utility Probes zooming this way and that, otherwise, it is quiet. Scene cuts, it is a Protoss garrison, you see warriors patrolling atop a massive wall, towers look town over the street, photon cannons sitting poised atop their peaks.
Suddenly, blue ion blasts streak through air, striking the ramparts which explode in a fiery ruin, Protoss soldiers careen to the ground, photon cannons arm to fire but are hit and explode in a cloud of debree. Protoss warriors run forward and burst through the shattered gates. They are greeted by a hail of ion blasts, they clash with enemy soldiers, psy blades flash, penetrating shields to find their mark, the soldiers hack each other apart ruthlessly.
You see Fenix rallying his troops, Raynor is there with a small group of marines firing their rifles, they advance through the compound, the battle is fierce, finally they reach a holding area where a massive towering hibernation tube sits, the glowing green gell within it partially obscuring the bound Protoss held in stasis within.
Reaching the pod, Fenix presses the controls, the gel drains and you see Tassadar bound within. The glass tube slides open.
Raynor: My god.
Fenix: Zealots, cut him loose!
Stepping forward several Protoss warriors ignite psy blades and cut Tassadar's bonds, lifting his prostrate body they carry him back toward the prison gate, the battle still rages around them.
Scene cuts, it is a carrier in deep space, cut to a council chamber in the carrier. You see Raynor, Zeratul and several other Templars, presently Tassadar enters, he still looks haggard from his imprisonment but some of his former glory is restored.
Zeratul: Greetings Executor.
Tassadar: Not Executor any long Prelate, not even a Templar of the order...
Zeratul: You must create your own temple now Tassadar.
Tassadar: How can we? Without the power of the Khala we cannot hope to match our former glory. Even now, the spark begins to fade...
He holds out his hands, blue energy pulses through them for a moment and is gone.
Zeratul: One day...perhaps you can return to Aiur...
Suddenly a Protoss bursts into the room, they all turn and look in surprise.
Protoss: Executor...er..Sir...it's Aiur! The Zerg are invading!
The Protoss all look at each other in horror.
Zeratul: Perhaps that day may come sooner than we had expected...
Tassadar: Set course for Aiur at once! Prepare for battle!
Protoss: Yes Executor!
Scene cuts, you see Fenix and dozens of warriors standing upon a fortified hilltop, in the back ground you see a Protoss city, it is burning from many fires. The camera turns and you see hundreds of Zerg suddenly emerge from the thick jungle, they tear across the valley toward the defenders who unleash volly after volly of ion cannon fire. Many Zerg fall but they are undaunted. Warriors leap forward and psy blades cut the Zerg apart but many more surge forward to replace them, the Protoss are overwhelmed. You see Fenix rallying warriors for a last stand inside a massive temple.
The protoss stand shoulder to shoulder inside a long cooridore, you see Fenix standing with his troops, Zerg pour down the hallway, their monstrous alien faces shine with hideous radiance, reflecting the sun through the temple windows, the warriors ignite their Psy blades and leap forward, there is a terrible battle, the Protoss fall, you see Fenix fall under the hulking menace of a Hydraliks.
Scene cuts, it is orbit over Aiur, you see various Zerg floating in orbit, on the ground, the planet burns. Presently, a carrier jumps in from hyperspace. Scene cuts to the bridge where Raynor, Tassadar and Zeratul stand.
Raynor: Damn..we're to late.
Protoss: Executor..Preator Fenix has fallen in battle, the citadel is overrun, reports say the Conclave has fled the planet.
Tassadar: Aiur has fallen.
Zeratul: Executor...there may still be time to save your people...
Tassadar: What do you mean? Speak Dark Templar.
Zeratul: There is a place where we can be safe from the Zerg, the Dark Templar homeworld of Shakuras. There is a way...a portal, kept hidden by my people for centuries.
Tassadar: A portal! So that is how your people escaped our grasp!
Zeratul: We hid many things from you Executor, but it was for our own survival.
Tassadar: Yes...yes...I suppose we have no choice, we must begin rallying our people, bring us to the portal.
Zeratul nods, scene cuts and you see the carrier descending into orbit. Scene cuts again and you see the landed carrier in the background, Raynor, his marines, Tassadar, Zeratul and various Protoss warriors make their way through the jungle.
Zeratul: It is not far...
Suddenly two Protoss step from behind a thicket.
Protoss: En taro Adun Prelate...we did not expect to see you upon the homeworld.
Zeratul: There is little time left, we must get as many of our people through the portal as possible.
Protoss: Take them to Shakuras? (He looks nervously at Tassadar and the Templars)
Zeratul: Yes...we have no choice, it is the only way to save our people.
Protoss: Very well, we have little time to lose, I will prepare the portal.
Zeratul: Tassadar, rally your people as quickly as possible! We will protect this position!
Tassadar nods and with the other troops and Templars hurry off, you see Zeratul, Raynor and the others move through the thicket and into a camp, atop a raised earth mound is a massive portal, a vertical golden ring now starting to spin, the inner circle glowing with blue energy.
Zeratul: (To Raynor) Terran, prepare your warriors, it is likely the Zerg are on their way.
Raynor nods and gestures to his warriors, they take up positions along the perimeter.
Scene cuts, you see thousands of Protoss refugees making their way in lines through the jungle. They reach the portal and are helped through by Zeratul and other Protoss. You see Tassadar approach Raynor and Zeratul.
Tassadar: Thank you...Prelate...I..our people owe you a great debt.
Zeratul: I hope this can begin to heal the rift between our peoples.
Tassadar: As do I...
A Protoss warrior approaches Tassadar.
Protoss: Executor, we were successful at retrieving Fenix's remains as you asked.
Tassadar nods.
Protoss: We also downloaded the Conclave's data base, we have the latest data on zerg tactics and positions.
Tassadar nods again, the Protoss hesitates.
Protoss: And...there is...
Tassadar: What is it?
Protoss: The Conclave believes a Cerebrate has taken root on Aiur...it has been helping the Zerg coordinate their attack.
There is silence while they absorb the meaning of this.
Tassadar: Zeratul...It appears there is one more thing I must ask of you...
Zeratul: You wish me to destroy this foul beast.
Tassadar: I do wish it.
Zeratul: Then it will be done.
Tassadar turns to Raynor.
Tassadar: There is place for you here as well son of Terra.
Raynor: I would be honored to help you kill this, what do you call it, Cerebrate?
Tassadar: Yes, we leave now, before the portal closes, and if Adun be with us the Zerg will be driven off Aiur!
Zeratul: Adun be with us.
They turn and begin to rally for the attack, you see the waves of Protoss still moving into the portal.
Scene cuts, it is Aiur, you see fires in the distance, a group of Protoss and Terrans lead by Tassadar arrive at a ridge top, they look out over a valley, a massive Zerg hive cluster is visible, giant pyramidal hives reach up toward the clouds, their grotesque fleshy surfaces quiver in the evening light. Underfoot, the creep is again present, it's reddish purple surface modeled with veins and arteries, always pulsating with a distant heartbeat.
Tassadar points to the far end of the valley were a strange structure is visible, it is like a giant grey worm or centipede, its legs rooted into the creep.
Tassadar: The Cerebrate...we must strike quickly, Zeratul, how long do you need to kill the creature?
Zeratul: Not long, only a few moments.
Tassadar: Good, then Adun be with us! Create a perimiter around the Dark Templar! We must not fail!
The Protoss warriors nod at each other and then move foreward, followed by Raynor and the marines, their guns held at the ready.
Moving down they valley toward the hive they encounter various other Zerg structures, all strange and twisted, rooted into the creep as if living. Suddenly Zerg surge out from behind structures, letting out their twisted gutteral roars and charging into battle. The Protoss unleash ion blasts and light psy blades, charging through the wall of Zerg to heavy losses, yet they press forward.
You see Zeratul walking forward, the Marines around him firing in all directions, the Cerabrate is ahead, Zeratul steps forward, two other Dark Templar flank him. They encircle the massive worm like Cerabrate, which towers many stories above them.
The Dark Templars reach and and place their hands on the Cerebrate, where they touch begins to eminate a red glow, spreading and cracking accross the surface, the Cerebrate is obviously being wounded.
You see the defenders being pushed back closer and closer to the Cerebrate, more and more fall, Tassadar and Raynor put up a last stand, until finally only two dozen Protoss and marines remain.
Tassadar: Marshall, take your men to the high ground, the moment that Cerebrate is dead, get everyone out of here.
Raynor: What the hell are you talking about?
Tassadar: I'm going to buy you the time to escape.
Raynor stands dumbfounded, Tassadar steps forward, he moves to stand on a hillock of twisted creep, he looks out as a mass of Zerg surge forward to attack.
Tassadar: Go! Or you will die in the fury of my attack!
Raynor turns and run, the rest of his marines follow, the other Protoss as well, you see Tassadar turn, his hands glow with blue Templar energy, suddenly, there are many copies of him, they run out into battle, charging the Zerg headlong, the Zerg turn to engage with the phantom forms only to find them dissipate like smoke.
Raising his hands, blue electricity pulsates through Tassadars fingers, for a moment he stands poised, fully charged, then unleashes the psyionic storm upon his foes, still distracted by the illusions.
The storm crashes down upon the Zerg, rending them apart with lightning, it tears through the bestial forms, slaying every Zerg in a hundred meters. You see Tassadar raise his hands for another attack.
Scene cuts, Raynor and the others stand guard over the Dark Templar, you see Tassadar in the distance as his psyionic storm strikes again and again.
Raynor: Damn, that's one hell of a show!
Protoss: Protoss Templars spend their lives charging their bodies with the energy of the Khala, when unleashed, it can be quite impressive.
Raynor: I'll say!
Zeratul: Marshall, the Cerebrate is nearly slain!
Turning you see the read lines coursing across the Cerebrates body, it visibly writhes in pain. The characters turn back and you see Tassadar unleash another storm, Scene cuts back to him and he is obviously exhausted. A thousand Zerg lie dead at his feet, yet, still they surge forward. You see a massive Ultralisk at the front, barreling toward the Templar. Tassadar draws his psy blades and runs forward, dodging the Ultralisks bladed arms and gutting it neatly down the length of it's body, not waiting to see the results, he turns and plunges his blades into a Hydralisk. Tassadar fights with fury, now encircled.
Scene cuts back to the Cerebreate, it lets out a crie of pain and then bursts, its guts spill out, the Dark Templar leap back just in time and stand looking over the monster's ruin with the other defenders.
Raynor: That's it...lets get the hell out of here!
Turning you see Tassadar, utterly surrounded by the Zerg, his blades flash in the center, but he is losing ground.
Raynor: Tassadar...
He falls, the Zerg swarm over him, Raynor steps forward but one of the Protoss puts and arm on his shoulder.
Protoss: His death will be remembered always in the halls of Adun.
Raynor stares in silence, then they turn and run, the mob of Zerg now tearing toward them, however, something is different, the Zerg now attack each other in a frenzy, they spread out in a chaotic wave, still attacking the defenders, but something is different, the singular direction of the Zerg is lost.
Raynor: Damn, the Overmind is losing control of the Zerg...It's working!
They fight there way out of they valley, Scene cuts, they return to the portal, you see Protoss defenders standing guard as the last refugees enter the camp. Raynor and the other survivors enter, there are just six marines and and fourty Protoss warriors.
Zeratul: We must enter the portal and disable it's function from the other side.
Raynor: What you think the Zerg are smart enough to work this thing?
Zeratul: We do not know what they are capable of, it would be a wise precaution.
Raynor: We could be stranding other folks on this side...
Zeratul: We do not have a choice, even with the Cerebrates death there are to many Zerg on Aiur, if the Overmind regains control of the swarm they could follow us to Shakuras.
Raynor nods.
Raynor: Alright...let's do this.
They walk toward the portal, Scene changes, it is a strange world, the rocks glow with a purple hue, the sky seems shaded with dark clouds and little plant life grows. You see a portal identical to the one of Aiur, various Protoss emerge and then Raynor and the other marines, they seem disoriented
Raynor: What a rush! (He rubs his eyes)
Protoss: The feeling will wear off shortly.
Raynor: (Looking around) What is this place?
Zeratul: Shakuras, the ancestral home of the Dark Templar, it is here we first went into hiding from the Khalia's wrath.
Raynor: Not very hospitable.
Zeratul: The eternal darkness and unique mineral compositions helps hide us from the enemy.
Raynor: I see.
They make there way down a valley were you can see the lines of Protoss refugee's moving into the distance.
Raynor: What will they do?
Zeratul: Our people have adequite resources for them..but eventually they will have to return to Aiur...or permenantly join our people.
Raynor: From everything I know of the Protoss, that will never happen!
Zeratul: Indeed, it is unlikely...we will see.
Raynor nods, Scene zooms out, you see the dark surface of Shakuras and the lines of refugees.
Scene cuts. It is night on a Terran colony on a boarder world. You see the evidence of many battles, there are trenches, barbed wire and craters, the flag of the UED looks recently planted. A marine stands in a trench, all around him, the battle rages. The fire of machine guns and the roar of flame throwers engulfs him. You see Zerg and Terrans burn in the fire alike.
Suddenly Zergling pour down the trench. Turning the marine unleashes sprays of fire down the trench, Zergling fall but more spring forward. The ammo counter on the marines rifle runs to zero. The marine looks on in horror as the Zerg surge forward, suddenly a massive missile launcher in the distance fires a shot, it hits the trench, sending debris and Zerg body parts in every direction.
The marine turns and makes his way down the trench, articulated power armor helping him clamber over debree. Ahead you see another marine sitting in the trench, his back to the wall, the battle ignored, a cigar hangs from his mouth. He rocks backward and forward as if traumatized.
Marine: (Yelling over the battle) Whose in charge here?
The sitting marine continues rocking backward and forward but does not answer.
Marine: Where is the air support?
The marine slowly raises an armored hand and point up at the sky. You see a the dark shape of a Battle Cruiser flying over head. Suddenly, spot lights flash on, swinging out over the battlefield. The sitting marine lowers his helmat, gold visor obscuring his face. The scene zooms out from the ground, leaving the marines.
Scene cuts to the bridge of the destroyer. You see an older man in an admirals uniform, he has a long, serious face, clean shaven, he looks out over the battle. Presently another man enters, he is short, wearing the uniform of a vice admiral, he has short cropped black hair and a beard/moustache. He lights a Cigar and steps forward.
Stukov: (Russian Accent) So...Gerard...I suspect you have a good reason for calling me away from my...duties.
Dugalle: Your Vodka can wait my good Alexi! Come! Stand here! You need to see this.
Stukov: I know all about the Zerg Gerard. (He hits the Cigar) We've all seen the tapes a hundred times!
Dugalle: (Grabbing Stukov firmly by the arm, causing him to drop the Cigar which rolls away on the floor) You've seen nothing! Disecting a dead Zerg in a lab is one thing, unleashing them on men is another! (He grips Stukovs shoulders with both hands, trying to impress the point upon him.) You must go into this with both eyes open! (Gesturing out to the battlefield with one arm, the other still around Stukov's shoulder) Once started...there is no going back.
Alex steps back and stomps on the Cigar, putting it out.
Dugalle: Are you prepared to go all the way with this, Alexi?
Stukov looks down for a moment, as if absorbing his words.
Stukov: Yes, (Preparing a fresh Cigar)...Yes..I am prepared to go all the way...my good Admiral. (He lights the Cigar.)
Dugalle: Good...good, I knew I could count on you.
Camera zooms out, you see the Sillhouette of the two men against the window.
Radio: Admiral, the colonists base will be overrun in a matter of minutes, should we intervene?
An operatic theme begins to the play, slow and quiet at first.
Dugalle: Take us into orbit Mr. Monstien.
Protective shields slide over the windows, Scene cuts the ground, you see the Battle Cruiser turn and start to pull away. Operatic theme builds, becoming a haunting chorus. Scene pans down into the trench, still angled up as the cruiser starts to pull away, you see the sitting marine, his gold face plate down, still rocking backward and forward. The Battle Cruiser pulls away and dissapears.
Scene cuts to shot of the standing marine looking down from above, he looks up into the sky. Camera starts to zoom away, backing out into the sky. You see the trench and the surrounding badlands, crater marked and twisted with barbed wire. Music builds to a crescendo. Lighting strikes, you see teeming hoards of Zergling coming from all sides toward the trench, then, everything goes dark.
Scene cuts, it is a massive UED fleet in space. Scene cuts again and you see Dugalle on the bridge. An officer approaches.
Officer: Admiral, the psyionic signals have been traced to a planet called Char. Intelligence beleives the Overmind is rooted somewhere on the surface.
Dugalle: Good work, set coarse for Char, tell our ground troops to prepare for invasion, inform ghost division...prepare to subdue the Overmind
Officer: Yes Admiral.
Scene cuts, you see the fleet jump away into hyperspace.
Scene cuts, you see a band of Protoss and a few Marines, lead by Jim Raynor working their way across the jungles of Aiur. They look nervous and ready for battle.
Raynor: Stay frosty, no sign of the Zerg yet.
Protoss: The city should be visible from the ridge top.
They continue, suddenly you see a group of Protoss warriors moving down the valley toward them, a spidery Dragoon at the head.
Protoss: Our allies!
They move to greet the Protoss. The Dragoon steps forward. An eerie robotic voice issues forth, but it is unmistakably Protoss.
Fenix: En taro Adun my brethren! It is good to meet you again on the field of battle.
Raynor: Is that...
Fenix: It is I...Fenix...when a Protoss dies the energy of our body is placed into the shell of a robotic Dragoon.
Raynor: Well...I'll be damned. Welcome back.
Fenix: It is good to be back son of Terra. Now, let us cleanse Aiur of this Zerg filth.
They move up towards the peak of a ridge, reaching it they survey the valley bellow, the ruins of a massive Protoss city strech out before them, some parts of it still burning, a thick cloud of black smoke hangs over everything.
Raynor: We should get bellow the ridge line.
They move down and make their way toward the valley, suddenly a Protoss signals a halt.
Protoss: There are Zerg in the trees ahead.
They prepare for battle, squinting into the treeline bellow, sure enough you see the shapes of hundreds of Zerg huddled among the underbrush.
Marine: Those Zerg aren't attacking...
Raynor: Odd...even after we destroyed the Cerebrate, the Zerg attacked everything including each other...
Fenix: Something is different...
Suddenly a figure emerges from the underbrush, it is Kerrigan, her bat like wings stretching before folding away, her face still a mottled terror.
Raynor: You!
Kerrigan: Don't look so surprised Jimmy, when the Cerebrate died I regained my freedom.
Raynor: I don't buy it sister...not for a second. Your still Zerg filth down to the core.
Kerrigan: Well...I can't blame you for not trusting me, but you might want to hear what I have to say. A massive Terran fleet has arrived from Earth under the United Earth Directorate, it's unlike anything we've seen. The Dominion is on the brink of defeat.
Raynor: Damn...The UED...sounds like Mengks is going to get what's coming to him!
Kerrigan: Not so fast Jimmy, we are going to need all the allies we can get if we hope to destroy the UED!
Raynor: We? Who the hell is we? We're not working with you sister...no way...
Kerrigan: You know you have no choice, you're out numbered and out gunned...and the first thing we're going to do, is rescue Arcturs.
Raynor: The hell...you know what he did to you!
Kerrigan: Of course...I should thank him really, you can't imagine what it's like Jimmy! The things I can see...feel!
Raynor: (Shuddering) I'd rather not imagine.
Kerrigan: Look, lets just forget that past and do what we have to in order to survive. Destroying that Cerebrate may temporarily have freed the Zerg on Aiur from the Overmind...but it wont last long, the Overmind will quickly regain control...unless we act.
Raynor: So..you're controling those Zerg there?
As if in answer a hoard of zerg emerge from the woods, they form in a mass behind Kerrigan and then stop, as if waiting for a command.
Kerrigan: I have gathered as many Zerg under my command as I have capacity to control. But there is something else...The UED have captured the Overmind on Char. Soon they will command the full might of the Zerg as well..
Raynor: Damn..this just keeps getting worse.
Fenix: Marshall...we may have no choice, if what she says about the Overmind is true, the whole sector could be over run.
Raynor: (Sighing) Aw hell...I don't like this...but...I guess we have no choice.
Kerrigan: Good...good. Now, let's find Mengks.
Raynor: Great...lets get this over with...
Scene cuts, it is a Terran council chamber, the red banners of the Dominion hang from the walls. You see Mengsk sitting surrounded by his advisors.
Advisor: My Emperor...our beacons detected the fleet only hours ago....they will be arriving in the quadrant within the day...
Mengsk: Damn...this...United Earth Directorate you say...how many warships?
Advisor: We estimate over a thousand...
Mengsk: Looks like Earth has come back for it's prize...but the Dominion won't go down with a fight, Admiral! Prepare the fleet for battle!
Admiral: Yes my Emperor!
Scene cuts, you see a Terran fleet in orbit over Tarsonis, the capital of the Dominion. The ships move toward space in formation, there are hundreds of them, large, hammer headed Battle Cruisers with long drive sections and wings like a soaring bird with weapons arrays pointing menacingly forward.
Scene cuts and you see coming toward the planet the UED fleet. It utterly dwarfs the Dominion fleet, there are more Battle Cruisers than the eye can count, with them are countless drop ships and large spherical Science Vessels.
The fleets engage, exchanging red laser blasts, Wraith wings fly out and engage swooping and darting through the larger ships with agility. The Dominion fleet is utterly pulverized. You see the drop ships moving into the atmosphere.
Scene cuts, it is the surface, the UED moves through a Terran city, their marines are well equipped, dressed in uniformed white power armor. Along side them fight hoards of Zerg, now under the UED's control. Using them as human shields, the Marines let the bestial Zerg tear into the Tarsonis defenders, follwing behind to clean up what's left. Behind them, massive mech walker Goliath's move through the wide streets, blasting anything with their massive gattling guns. Ghost special operatives move from cover to cover sniping down any survivors.
The Dominion is no more. You see a banner bearing the red Dominion crest burn up and blow away in the wind.
Scene cuts, it is back in Mengks's command center, there is chaos, officers are running this way and that. You see Mengsk consulting a series of reports, he looks frustrated. A marine approaches him.
Marine: Sir...communication for you. It's from...Jim Raynor.
Mengsk: (In surprise) Patch him through.
Raynor: Hello Arcturus...I suppose this is probably the last person you expected to be hearing from...but, lets just say the situation requires we put aside our past...disagreements.
Mengsk: What are you proposing?
Raynor: We get you out of that siege...and you fight for our alliance against the UED. But you do whatever we tell you...understand? Or no deal.
Mengsk: You sure got a strong mouth on you boy...I heard all about your dealings with the Protoss....If I join this little alliance of yours I'm going to need assurance that they won't interfere with me reestablishing my...Dominion.
Raynor: You can keep your precious Dominion, the Protoss have assured me once the UED and Zerg are destroyed they will leave your space permanently.
Mengsk: That sounds good to me...Very well..you got yourself a deal boy.
Scene cuts, it is orbit of Tarsonis, suddenly a group of Protoss Carriers and a Terran Battle Cruiser jump in from hyper space, they punch through the UED fleet and descend toward the surface. Scene cuts and you see the ships hovering over the city exchanging fire with the UED troops. Drop ships land and you see Marines disembark. The battle rages, presently you see the Marines returning with Mengsk and a few other Dominion officers, they board the drop ship. Hangers open and dozens of Domion drops ships fly out, protected by the Protoss Carriers and Wraith wings. The fleet moves into the atmosphere and then orbit, dueling with UED warships before jumping into hyperspace.
Scene cuts, it is inside a council chamber on Battle Cruiser. Raynor, Fenix, Zeratul, Kerrigan and a others are there. Presently Mengsk enters. When he sees Kerrigan he stops short.
Mengsk: You...what the hell?
Kerrigan: You let the Zerg have their way with me Arcturus...and this is what was left.
Mengsks: (To Raynor) She's part of this alliance to? We're fighting along side the Zerg now?
Raynor: I told you this is take it or leave it...you did this..now face the consequences.
Mengsks: (Sighing) I guess I have no choice, very well, what do you have in mind?
Kerrigan smiles.
Scene cuts, it is a mostly polar world from orbit, punctuated by patches of green. You see orbital infrastructure. Suddenly a fleet of Carriers and one Battle Cruiser jumps into orbit. They engage with orbital defences and destroy them. You see the orbital infrastructure is a massive shipyard with dozens of Battle Cruisers in dock.
Scene cuts to the Bridge of the Battle Cruiser, Raynor, Kerrigan and Zeratul are there. A screen flickers on and you see Fenix, his face distorted within the Dragoon's body.
Fenix: The fleet is moving to capture the shipyards, send your forces to the surface and destroy the industrial yards!
Raynor: On our way.
You see the Battle Cruiser descend into orbit, a series of drop ships fly from a hanger and descend to the ground while the Cruiser bombards from orbit. You see Troops emerging, with them Raynor. Siege Tanks roll behind them and then anchor to the ground, their upper sections swivling out and pointing toward the distant enemy. Goliath walkers stomp out in the snow, their massive bulk riding high above the ground.
The Siege Tanks begin firing, artillary round after round tearing through the sky and hitting far away, then in return you see enemy artillary striking here and there, whistling past the Terrans. Raynor signals and they move out, they Tanks remaining in place, laying down cover fire. Ahead there is a Bunker, its rounded top sits shining metalic in the sunlight on a hilltop. From inside Marines lay down fire on the attackers you take cover. Raynor nods at a Firebat, his red armor distinctive, twin flame throwers on each massive armored hand, fuel tanks heavy on his back.
The Firebat runs out and the Marines lay down cover fire, reaching the Bunker the sprays jets of fire into the defenders, the whole bunker goes up. The Marines emerge from cover and move forward, Goliaths trailing behind. Suddenly Zergling surge from around a hillside, the Marines open fire, but the raptor like beasts tear into the front line of Marines, ripping through their armor, finally the Zerglings are dead, the Marines stand shaken.
Raynor: What the hell, Zerg fighting for the UED?
Radio: (Kerrigan) They must have taken control of the Overmind...
Raynor: Damn...
Radio: (Fenix) If what you say is true, the situation could be more dangerous than we have anticipated, we cannot wait to strike at the heart of the UED.
Raynor: May troops are pulling out, did you capture those battle ships?
Fenix: Affirmitive, 18 ships comandeered.
Raynor: All right boys, lets get the hell out of here before any more Zerg show up....
They turn and head back toward the waiting ship.
Scene cuts, it is the council chamber inside the Battle Cruiser. Raynor, Fenix, Kerrigan and Mengsk are there.
Kerrigan: If the UED has gained control of the Overmind...I could soon become one of their agents....we don't have a moment to lose! We need to attack!
Mengsk: I for one can't help but agree, with the Zerg under their command the Directorate will soon become to powerful for us to defeat. We must act quickly.
Raynor: So...what we attack..just like that? Even without the Zerg the UED is to powerful for us to take head on!
Kerrigan: Perhaps...there is something I could contribute to this effort...a sort of...Ironic twist. I'm sure you will understand what I mean Arcturus.
Mengsk looks puzzled.
Kerrigan: There is a piece of technology that interupts the Zergs psyionic communication. It's known as a Psy Disruptor.
Mengsk Laughs.
Mengsk: I see were you're going with this...you wan't to disrupt the UED's control of the Zerg...and let them do the dirty work.
Kerrigan: Precisely.
Raynor: Well...it is ironic. Alright...I guess we do this. Lead the way sister.
Kerrigan nods. Scene changes.
It is a Terran science fascility. Scientists in lab coats go about their work. Suddenly the door opens and Kerrigan is there, flanked by Hydralisk. She and her Zerg slaughter the Terrans. Kerrigan steps up to the terminal.
Kerrigan: I'm in. Looks like its here, i'll have one of my Drones bring you the Disruptor.
Radio: (Raynor) Sounds good...
You see an insect like Zerg Drone gripping a crate in its massive jaws. The Hydralisk follow it down the cooridore, Kerrigan turns and gives one last glance into the science lab, a shadow of the past flickers over her face, then is gone. She exits.
Scene cuts, it is the Council chamber, Kerrigan enters.
Kerrigan: That's it, we can set course for Tarsonis. I think Arcturus should be the one to deliver the devise personally...don't you think so Jimmy?
Raynor gives her a dark look.
Mengsk: Fine..I suppose it's only fair...I did agree to be part of this deal...
Fenix: I will command the Protoss ground Invasion.
Fall of Aiur
UED arrival
UED captures Overmind
Raynor meets Fenix on Aiur
Kerrigan emerges
Raynor and Fenix go to Tarsonis
UED overthrows Dominion W/ Zerg
Raynor and Fenix Rescue Mengsk
Kerrigan Steals Psy Disruptor
Fenix and Mengsk Plant Disruptor on Tarsonis
Zerg Destroy UED Capital
Raynor and Zeratul Kill Overmind on Char
Kerrigan takes control of Zerg on Tarsonis
Kerrigan Kills Fenix and Mengsk
Raynor and Zeratul discover Kerrigans Treachery
Raynor and Zeratul escape to Shakuras
Kerrigan Destroys UED, takes full control of the Zerg
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