LA FEMME NIKITA
Fuzzy Logic

#215 "Fuzzy Logic"
Written by: Michael Loceff
Directed by: Ken Girotti
Edited by: David B. Thompson
Transcript Archived at TWIZ TV.COM
Originally posted at Flash Mission
Transcribed by: Karen H

co-starring:
Greg Hillinger Kris Lemche
Barry Dan Redican
Rita Hillinger Eve Crawford
Roberta ("Bert") Louisa Nixon
Thug Patrick Gallagher
Dave Christopher Crumb

B = Birkoff BA = Barry Fanning CT = Comm Tech GH = Greg Hillinger M = Michael MA = Madeline N = Nikita O = Operations R = Roberta ("Bert") RH = Rita Hillinger T = Thug TL = Team Leader W = Walter


TEASER
INTERIOR - SECTION / COMM - NIGHT

Its late. Section has a deserted air to it - except Comm. It is fully staffed and working at full capacity. Birkoff is racing around trying to do three things at once. It looks as if he hasn't eaten, slept or showered in days. One of his Techs, Roberta, walks over and hands him a disk. He shows an obvious displeasure at being disturbed.

[B] (IRRITABLE) What's this?

[R] It's the number table you wanted.

Operations watches from his office as Birkoff takes his frustrations out on his Techs.

[B] (ANGRY, RAISED VOICE) You idiot! Are you an idiot?! I want you to cycle it through. Don't give it to me!

Roberta straightens, looking up at the ceiling as if asking the Gods to give her strength.

[R] Sorry.

[B] (CAUSTIC) Bonehead!

Another Tech captures Birkoff's attention to show him a possibility on his monitor.

[CT] What about this?

This just sets off Birkoff into another tirade.

[B] (ANGRY, RAISED VOICE) No! What .., we already tried those. ... (YELLING; TO OTHER TECHS IN COMM) What's wrong with you people? Why don't you just go home? You're worthless!

No one moves, which just incenses Birkoff further.

[B] (FURIOUS, SHOUTING) I mean it! Get out of here!

Now Everyone gets the message, log off the System, and quickly vacates Comm. Birkoff watches everyone leave and, alone, returns to his station.

[B] (UNDERTONE) How many people does it take to run a program?

Birkoff tiredly removes his Comm unit, glasses, and sits staring at his monitor. It shows green walls of numbers scrolling up the screen in a never-ending progression. He then looks up at the monitor mounted above him, which shows the same image.


SECTION - MADELINE'S OFFICE

Madeline is conducting research at her stand-alone, when Operations barges into her office, hands in pockets, a fed-up look on his face.

[O] (IMPATIENT) I've been as accommodating as I can be. This has got to stop!

Madeline crosses the room to stand in front of her desk and look at a PDA resting on the desktop. [It is obvious she knows exactly what is irritating Operations, so I'll bet this is not the first time he has raised this subject.]

[MA]We've come this far, another few hours won't make any difference.

[O] Why can't he hand it off to somebody else? Madeline turns and looks at Operations.

[MA]We've tried. Birkoff is the only one who has any idea how to approach this thing. It's an unusual code.

[O] But, is it worth holding up a half dozen other operations that need his attention?

Madeline walks around and takes a seat behind her desk.

[MA] We've tried for two years to get sourced into this group. ... These people are extremely careful. We were lucky to even intercept the communication.

[This is the first unnamed group that Section hasn't given a code name. I wonder if this was Loceff's way of subliminally underlining how threatening the anonymity of this group posed. Or ..., was it to show that the group really didn't matter, only the code did? Hmmmm.]

[O] Fine. But, when does it end?

Madeline thinks a moment.

[MA] Give him until tomorrow morning.

[O] No more than that. His ultimatum given, Operations stalks out of the office. Madeline returns to researching the data on the PDA, this time utilizing the computer at her desk.


SECTION - COMM

Birkoff numbly stares at the screen, unable to get a handle on the code. He gets up, restless, rubbing his hand over his head. A sudden need to change his perspective has him walking into the middle of the Common Area. Once there, he crouches down, staring off at space. This doesn't seem to get him anywhere, so he takes it one step further and stretches out on the floor, staring up at the ceiling. Operations watches Birkoff's actions from the window in his office. Birkoff seems to be putting himself into a trance of some sort, mentally seeing the scrolling walls of numbers. Suddenly, his eyes light up as he thinks of a different way to attack the code. Birkoff leaps to his feet and rushes over to his station. Once there, he gathers his thoughts as he puts his glasses back on, then starts typing in parameters. As he works, his face again shows his usual look when he's about to solve a complex puzzle. Once he finishes typing the commands, he looks up at the monitor above him. It shows a percentage scale as the new program loads and starts deciphering the code. The monitor shows a two dimensional grid in which the code appears as a series of spikes, like a mountain range. The new program finishes decoding and the scale at the top reads "DECRYPTION COMPLETE." The grid now shows structures shaped like rectangular towers slowly surround the spikes. Birkoff, flushed with a sense of triumph, leaps up from his seat.

[B] (YELLING) YEAH!

Birkoff looks around the deserted Comm with a sense of accomplishment, now wanting to share his sense of victory with others.

[B] Yes!

[I.e., I am Computer Genius, hear me roar!]


INTERIOR - NIKITA'S APARTMENT

Nikita has a visitor - her new neighbor, Barry. His initial reason for the visit was to borrow a screwdriver, but he's now pouring out his inner most thoughts and concerns into Nikita's sympathetic ears. Barry is talking while Nikita putters around her kitchen.

[BA] Larry, my youngest, seems to be okay with it, you know, everything rolls off of him. But, its - its my daughter I'm worried about. She doesn't want to talk about it, and .., you know, it concerns me, because I'm - I'm a big believer in communication.

Nikita was taking a dish out of the refrigerator, but now turns and looks at Barry.

[N] How often do you get to see them?

[BA] Oh ..., a couple times a month ..., (SMALL GRIMACE) unless Denise goes out of town with the new boyfriend.

Nikita turns back and restores the dish to the refrigerator.

[N] So, how long have you been separated for?

Barry does some mental addition.

[BA] Well, let's see .., I .., ah, lost my job in September ... so ..., since October.

Nikita pours herself another mug of tea.

[N] What now?

[BA] I'm going to get a job. ... And then I'm going to get Denise .. back!

Barry notices Nikita is smiling at his response and gives a sheepish grin as he listens to himself.

[BA] That sounds ... crazy, doesn't it?

[N] Well, at least you have a plan.

Nikita suddenly realizes she has poured herself another cup of tea and hadn't offered any to Barry. She motions to her hand holding the mug.

[N] Did you want some tea?

[BA] Oh, no, no ... I .. got to get back. I've got tons of boxes to unpack.

Nikita walks over to her door with Barry.

[N] Well, if you need any help, just give me a shout.

[BA] Is everyone in this building as nice as you are?

Nikita quickly thinks of anyone else she knows in the building.

[N] I don't really know anybody else.

[BA] Well, you do now. (INDICATES SCREWDRIVER) Thanks for this. I'll get it back to ya.

Nikita opens the door to let Barry out.

[N] See you, Barry.

[BA] Bye. ... Thanks.

[N] You're welcome.

Nikita smiles as she returns to her chores, having enjoyed spending time, however brief, with a simple, uncomplicated man.


SECTION - BRIEFING AREA - DAY

Operations is, as usual, leading the briefing. Walter, Michael and Birkoff are seated among other Operatives.

[O] An explosion at a soccer match in Manchester, England; a car bomb at a Lima, Peru embassy; a charter plane down in Japan. Relatively small incidents ..., seemingly unrelated.

Operations leans his hands on the briefing table, as if to stress the importance of this Mission.

[O] Linked .. only by the fact that we have been unable to source them. Birkoff?

[B] (TO OTHER OPERATIVES) I cross-correlated the data on each act and discovered that each of the detonations was the result of a trigger communication from a DOD satellite.

Operations briefly straightens as he studies everyone's perception of Birkoff's Intel.

[W] (SURPRISED) Department of Defense?

[B] That's right. Someone drilled into a friendly satellite and was using it for terrorist acts.

[M] Why such small incidents if they can control the DOD computers?

[B] That's the scary part. Someone's beta testing the software - working out the kinks.

Operations again leans on the table as he jumps back into the discussion.

[O] And when they do, we can assume the actions will be much more devastating.

[W] Well, why don't we just take out the satellite?

[O] We have, but the same techniques can be used on others. In the meantime, Birkoff has exacted a location from the group's last encoded command set. (TO MICHAEL) Work up an approach strategy.

[M] What mode?

[O] Bring back as many as you can. Let's find out who these people are.

With that Operations sets the remote back down on the table[this is one of the few briefings where Operations has not used the blue screen as a visual aid] and leaves, at the same time the other Team members get up to initiate their segment of the Mission.


EXTERIOR - INDUSTRIAL AREA - NIGHT

The Section Van is traveling down a deserted road in an industrial area. [The impression is that it is very late at night.]


INTERIOR - SECTION VAN

Inside, Michael is standing giving a final briefing to the Mission Teams, who are seated around the van's table.

[M] The building is stand-alone - forty-five hundred square meters, mostly space. ... (INTO MIC) Birkoff, how many bodies are you reading?


INTER - SECTION / COMM

[B] Right now I see twelve ..., plus transmitters and computers. It would be nice to bring some of that stuff back intact.


SECTION VAN

[M] (TO TEAMS) Assume a high density defense. We'll strike quickly. Teams Two and Three, stay outside ..., cover the retreat.


EXTERIOR - URBAN BUILDING

The Section Van stops in front of an isolated stone building. Its outside structure gives nothing away - this building could contain the most basic type of equipment ..., or the most expensive high tech. The Teams spill out of the Van: Teams Two and Three surround and back-up Team One, who penetrates the building.

[I'm going by Michael's description of the sequence, not the actual number and groups of Operatives.]


INTERIOR - URBAN BUILDING

Once inside, Team One fans out, searching stairs and corridors for inhabitants as they infiltrate the building's interior.


SECTION VAN

Michael is overseeing the Mission from the Van.

[M] (INTO MIC) Team One, report.


URBAN BUILDING

Team One's leader checks in with Michael and Birkoff.

[TL] There's no one here.


SECTION - COMM

[B] I'm picking up twelve bodies. Someone's there. (TYPES SOMETHING ON KEYBOARD) I just sent you a mark.

Birkoff briefly glances up at the monitor above his head.

[B] Check it out.


URBAN BUILDING

The Team follows the mark on their PDA to a large room. In the middle of the room is a cement platform, where a strange station had been erected. It is lit by neon lights that give it an eerie green glow. The station itself is unmanned. Still, Team One surrounds and covers as the Team's leader climbs the platform to get a closer look at the equipment. Placed around the platform are a series of flat Plexiglas outlines of masculine-like figures webbed with circuits and tubings or feminine-like torsos ribbed with the green neon lighting. The Team Leader's Comm camera shows Birkoff and Michael what he is scrutinizing.


SECTION - COMM

Birkoff's monitor shows the silhouettes haloed in a green glow. He, like everyone else, has no idea what they are looking at.

[B] (PUZZLED)What is it?


URBAN BUILDING

The Team Leader moves further into the station as he tries to see something that will give him or Section a clue as to what function the station was designed.


SECTION VAN

Michael suddenly realizes the station's purpose.

[M] (FLAT)It's a trap. Michael has no time to warn the Team. Almost as soon as he voices his theory, the Team Leader's presence triggers the trap and the entire platform goes up in an explosion. The fire ball is reflected in Michael's eyes as he is forced to watch as Team One is vaporized.


SECTION / COMM

Birkoff, stunned, leans back in his chair in silence as he witnesses the same on his monitor.


INTERIOR - SECTION / MADELINE'S OFFICE

Madeline's monitor shows the last few seconds before and after the explosion at the industrial building. Madeline watches seated at her desk, with Operations viewing while standing behind her holding his glasses.

[O] What does Analysis have to say about what they found on site? Madeline turns her head a bit, but doesn't turn around as she answers Operations.

[MA] Everything was state of the art. No expense was spared.

[O] Red Cell?

Madeline thinks a moment.

[MA] No, it doesn't have their signature. Red Cell wouldn't go to the trouble to fully automate an operation. They'd use personnel.

As Madeline answers, Operations walks around and takes a seat in front of her desk. The door slides open, and Birkoff enters. He shares his opinion of what transpired the minute he sees them.

[B] It was a bogus code. ... Probably a decoy.

Operations doesn't bother to turn around as he responds to Birkoff's comment.

[O] Not according to our friends from the NSA.

This is news to Birkoff.

[B] What did they say?

[O] That the information's in the code....

Operations gets up and faces Birkoff.

[O] The data you extracted ... was simply an outer shell, a protective mechanism.

Birkoff looks over at Madeline.

[B] Can they get at it?

[MA] No. They've tried. It's beyond their capabilities.

[O] (SHORT) This is unacceptable! There's got to be someone who can do this!

[MA] (TO BIRKOFF) Can you find us someone?

[B] From the outside?

[MA] Yes.

[B] (THINKING)There's probably no more than a handful of mathematicians who work in this area at this level.

[O] (TO BIRKOFF) Find them.

[B] Yes, sir.

Birkoff leaves to start researching the order.


INTERIOR - SECTION / SYSTEMS

Birkoff is briefing Operations, Madeline and Michael on his findings. The young Tech is sitting at the computer, while the others stand around the holograph table. He pulls up a holograph Profile on his first candidate.

[B] Emil Ondruska. The world's leading specialist in non-linear key theory.

[MA] Where does he do his work from?

[B] University of St. Petersburg.

[M] Government affiliations?

[B] Many. He's owned by Moscow.

Birkoff pulls up the holograph Profile of the next candidate - a young Asian woman.

[B] Sung-Hee Park. A professor at a Think Tank in North Korea. She was the brains behind the J-MEV algorithm.

Operations tires of seeing Profiles of individuals that Section can't touch.

[O] How about somebody accessible?

[B] Like I told you, it's a pretty select group. I did pull one match from the West who might be able to do it, but there are constraints.

[MA] What kind of 'constraints'?

[B] He's young. ...

Birkoff pulls up the holograph Profile and reads the information noted.

[B] His name is Greg Hillinger. Graduated high school at eleven; college at thirteen. Received his Ph.D. after six months. Wrote his thesis on non-linear principal components. Because he's the youngest tenured Professor in the history of the University, he's highly visible.

[MA] What makes you think he can do this?

[B] He's written several papers on statistical L-trees. Exactly the kind of approach that's needed.

[O] Family? Birkoff turns and accesses up Hillinger's personal data.



[B] Actually (ACCESSES NEW DATA) ..., he still lives with his mother.

[O] Will he cooperate with his government?

Birkoff turns and looks at Operations.

[B] He's turned down NSA and other agencies who've tried to enlist him. (DRY) Mother doesn't want her only child designing weapons.

[MA] Then we'll have to take him .. against his will.

[B] That shouldn't be too difficult. The University sends a van to pick him up every morning.

Birkoff pulls up a holograph of the Hillinger residence for Michael to study.


EXTERIOR - HILLINGER RESIDENCE - DAY

A van pulls up outside the Hillinger residence, stops and honks its horn. Greg emerges, looking like a normal teenager in jeans, jacket and backpack. He is quickly followed by his mother carrying a brown bag lunch.

[RH] (CALLING TO GREG) Hey!

Greg turns back to his mother and she notices his hands are bare.

[RH] Hey, where are your gloves?

[GH] Don't need 'em.

[RH] I don't want you getting sick.

As Greg turns to face his mother, he shoves his hands in his pockets and holds them up so his mother can see.

[GH] (CHEEK) Okay?

Rita is not impressed. She lightly shoves his lunch at him, forcing Greg to pull his hands out to grab it.

[RH] Don't you get smart with me.

While Greg turns to leave, Rita notices how long is hair is. She grimaces and briefly runs her hands over his head.



[RH] Boy, do you need a haircut.

This obvious is not a new topic of conversation Greg has with his mother, and he just shrugs it off.

[GH] Mom, I've gotta go.

Mrs. Hillinger smiles and lightly pushes him away, calling out to Greg as he walks down the driveway to the van.

[RH] (RAISED VOICE) We're having spaghetti for dinner.

Greg doesn't stop walking toward the van, but briefly turns his head and squints a smile at his mother.

[GH] (CALLING) Thanks.

[RH] (RAISED VOICE) Keep your hands warm!

Greg shoves one of his hands in a pocket and holds it up to show his mother. Rita smiles and returns to the house.


INTERIOR - SECTION VAN

Greg gets in the back and removes his backpack. Without bothering to look up front he greets the person he believes is driving.

[GH] What's going on, Jake?

Instead of getting a return greeting, both back doors suddenly lock. Now Greg looks up front to see - Michael.

[GH] (DEMAND Who the hell are you?

Michael says nothing, just starts the van moving. While Greg is focused on Michael, Nikita appears from her hiding place in the rear storage space of the van.

[N] Hello, Greg. I'm Nikita. ...

Greg whips around, startled at having someone seem to suddenly appear behind him.

[N] (REASSURE) Listen, we're not gonna hurt you. We just want your help. You'll be back home in twenty-four hours.

Greg immediately turns and tries to open one of the locked back doors.

[GH] (PANICKING) No! ... No!

Nikita reaches over the seat and lightly grabs Greg's shoulders, trying to reassure - and calm him down.

[N] Greg, I'm sorry. Twenty-four hours ..., you'll be back home ..., before you know it. Just .. take it easy.


INTERIOR - SECTION / VAN ACCESS

Nikita and an Operative holding the struggling teenager by his arms enter. Greg's head is encased in a black hood [same way they brought Kessler's daughter, Annie, into Section.] They are greeted by Operations. Greg is busy struggling and tossing out warnings.

[GH] (SHOUT) Hey, you can't do this! I happen to be a really important person. There's going to be people looking for me, and not just the police!

[O] I'm sorry we had to do this, Greg. We need your assistance for a short time ..., then you'll be safely returned.

[GH] (DEMAND) Hey, go to Hell! I want to talk to the man in charge!

[O] I am the 'man in charge.'

[GH] (DERISIVE) You couldn't be in charge of my crotch!

It is quickly apparent that Operations has not spent much time with teenagers. [The expression on Nikita's face here is priceless!] Nikita swallows a grin and looks away. However, Operations is not amused, and glances at Nikita.

[O] (DEMANDING) Why hasn't he been sedated?

Greg gives a scornful chuckle.

[GH] (MOCK) That's real smart! Real Smart! What are you gonna do, fill my brain with beta blockers and get me to solve a problem? (SHOUTING) Where am I, exactly? Stupid City?

It has taken less than a minute for Greg to get the better of a man who has kept his cool under the most trying conditions.

[O] (TO NIKITA) Take him to his room. Tell Madeline he's here.

Nikita motions for the Operative to follow her with Greg.

[N] Come on, Greg.

The Operative follows Nikita, lightly pushing him forward, while Greg continues to fight and yell.


INTERIOR - SECTION / GREG'S ROOM

Nikita enters first, followed by the Operative with a resistant and griping Greg.

[GH] (RAISED VOICE) Ow! Hey, easy! Ow!

Nikita turns and looks at Greg, her look one of amused tolerance. The other Operative takes this opportunity to drop Greg's backpack on the floor.

[N] You want to calm down for one second, so I can take the hood off?

At the same time Nikita is removing the hood, the Operative escorting Greg removes his wrist restraints.

[GH] (BRAVADO) Ah, yes, great, good ..., take the hood off! Sure, finally I get to see this pathetic ....

The hood off, the first thing Greg sees is the computer set-up - which immediately holds his attention. He forgets to argue and walks over to the computer.

[GH] What's that? That's not a Unix C Shell. I've never seen this .. OS before. (TO NIKITA) You running on some derivative of the Korn interface?

Greg leans down and starts typing on the keyboard.

[N] (DISINTEREST) I don't know. Birkoff will get into that with you.

Nikita takes off her glasses and uses her shirt to clean them.

[GH] Birkoff? Sounds like a Nazi! No, you know what?

Greg straightens and glares over at Nikita, once more remembering how and in what manner he arrived.

[GH] (TANTRUM) You're ALL Nazis! And don't tell me to calm down, okay? Because, I'm not going to calm down! I'm not gonna do anything .. for anybody until somebody lets me talk to my Mom!

Nikita just gives a slight smile at this tirade, which sets off Greg even further.

[GH] (TANTRUM) Okay? You know what, do me a favor. Go tell that to the guy with the bullfrog in his throat who thinks he's in charge!


SECTION - MADELINE'S OFFICE

Madeline is seated at her desk observing Greg on her monitor. Operations is standing behind her, also staring at the scene. He leans down to get a closer look at Greg. They watch as Nikita leaves Greg to amuse himself.

[GH] (MONITOR) Thanks!

[O] What do you think?

Madeline's eyes don't leave the monitor as she answers Operations.

[MA] I'll observe him for a couple of hours. Then, we'll have a talk.

Madeline is wearing a slight smile, but Operations sees nothing funny about their teenaged guest.

[O] (SHORT) Tolerate only so much from this kid. If he doesn't cooperate, wear him down!

[Operations' tone implies he's hoping Madeline will use pain as a persuasion tool!] Madeline watches Operations stalk out, then folds her arms back against her chest and turns her attention back to Greg, who has pulled a small computer toolkit from his backpack and begun dismantling one of the computer units.


INTERIOR NIKITA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Nikita is in bed, asleep, when she hears someone knocking on the door. When the knocking repeats, she gets up.

[N] (RAISED VOICE) Hold on!

Nikita pulls on a robe and shuffles, still half-asleep, over to her front door. She opens it and finds herself face-to-face with ... Barry.

[N] (SLEEPY SURPRISED) Ah .., Barry. You're up late. It is obvious that time has gotten away from Barry, because he seems genuinely surprised that he has disturbed Nikita's sleep.

[BA] Oh, I'm sorry. Did I get you up?

[N] (SLEEPY) What's up?

[BA] I'm been in my .. apartment going through the classifieds ..., and ....

[N] (SLEEPY) Any luck?

[BA] No - Not yet, but I am going to make some ... you know ... some phone calls tomorrow, so ...

[N] (SLEEPY) Good, good. ... (HOLDS DOOR OPEN WIDER) Do you want to come on in?

Even while protesting he can't, Barry enters to stand just inside Nikita's door.

[BA] Oh, no, no. .. I, I - I really can't ... I just .. I just, um ..., ah ...

Nikita picks up that there is something Barry wants to speak to her about.

[N] Is there something wrong?

[BA] (HESITATES A MOMENT) Ah ... Yes and No. Not, not really. Ah ... But there's a - there's a favor ... I'd like to ask of you?

[N] Sure. What is it?

Up to now, Barry's hands have been behind his back. He now brings them out to show he's holding a smallish wooden box in his hands[ about the size of a jewelry box.]

[BA] Could you, ah, hold on to this .. ah, .. for me just for a couple of days?

Nikita looks down at the box.

[N] What's in it?

[BA] Oh, ah, jewelry, heirlooms, that - that sort of thing.

[N] (CONFUSED) Barry, I don't understand.

[BA] Oh, well, you see ... Denise is sending over a couple of lawyers tomorrow. They're gonna do a 'discovery.' They're going to search the whole place ..., this (SIGHS) divorce is really getting crazy.

As Barry sighs, he returns his gaze to the box. Nikita is still fighting the effects of being suddenly awakened, but, even so, she's not crazy about this request.

[N] (UNHAPPY) Barry, I - I'd really rather not.

[BA] (SIGHS) Yeah, I know what you mean ..., you can't be too careful. But, it- it really ..., there's nothing that spectacular in here. It just, you know, some ... stuff ....

Barry opens and starts to rummage through the box, holding up a coin, a ring.

[BA] ... its my Dad's coin collection .., and my ... this ring, my - my grandmother brought this ring from Russia. .. in 1897. And, ah, she never sold it, even when things got tough, and I ...

[N] (BREAKS IN) It's very pretty.

[BA] Ah, yeah. (SIGHS) I don't even know if it's worth anything, but, it means a lot to me. ... I'd hate for those lawyers to end up with this ....

Nikita gives in to the emotional blackmail. She snaps the box shut and takes it, at the same time lightly prodding Barry out the door.

[N] (WHISPERS) All right.

Barry smiles and starts suggesting possible times that he can retrieve the box as Nikita nudges him into the hallway.

[BA] Okay, so .. ah ... I'll come back tomorrow, after the lawyers have finished snooping around and .. get it again ... okay?

[N] Good. Good night.

Nikita gives Barry a final smile, then firmly closes the door in his face.


INTERIOR - SECTION / GREG'S ROOM

Greg is keeping busy on the computer when Madeline enters his room. Greg briefly looks over his shoulder when he hears the door open, then returns his attention back to the computer, where he logs off of what he was working. Madeline looks around the room, acknowledging she's noticed his 'realignment' of the computer hardware and wiring.

[MA] I see you've made yourself at home. Madeline moves closer, but still keeps a small distance between herself and Greg.

[GH] (SNIFFS) I could care less about this crap. (RUBS EYE) I'm just bored.

[MA] We don't want that.

[GH] (SIGHS) Is somebody ever going to tell me what I'm doing here?

[MA] In a bit.

[GH] Okay ..., what about ....

Greg swing his chair around and keys in a command. Birkoff's Profile appears on the monitor.

[GH] Birkoff? (READING FROM MONITOR) Seymour Birkoff. Age - twenty-one; one hundred thirty-five pounds; 20-80 vision; SYS ADMIN for every host on this LAN. Should I continue?

[MA] We've let you roam through an outer, non-secured area of the network to give you something to do.

[GH] (SCORNFUL)) Gee, thanks. You think I can't dig deeper?

Madeline turns from distant and kind to threatening almost instantaneously, as she moves closer to Greg. Even though she is still not that close to him, Greg immediately feels her intrusion into his personal 'space' (which is exactly what Madeline wanted him to feel).

[MA] (THREAT) If you did ... and by some fluke ... happened on to something, classified ...

Greg, being the bright genius he is, picks up that this woman is dangerous.

[MA] (THREAT) ... You'd never go home again. ... Never see your mother again. ... You're life would be over.

For a brief moment their eyes have a type of holding war. Then, warning delivered, Madeline returns to her 'distant and kind' impersonation.

[MA] We've gone to a great deal of trouble to protect you, don't work against us, Gregory.

[GH] (SLIGHTLY INTIMIDATED) Who are you guys? Secret Service? Interpol?

[MA] We need you to break a code.

[GH] (SMALL LAUGH) That's it? Just break a code? Why didn't you just ask me?

[MA] We couldn't take a chance that you or your mother might object. It needs to be done immediately.

[GH] What if I don't do it?

Madeline immediately dials her 'threat ray' back up and beams a large dosage at Greg.

[MA] (THREAT) You'll do it.

Greg is facing a personality he has never had to face before. Someone intelligent enough to realize his potential, but cold enough not to be more lenient due to his age. Having presented her 'request,' Madeline departs - leaving Greg to reassess his captors.


INTERIOR - SECTION / COMM

Madeline joins Birkoff in Comm, who is getting the data ready to present to Greg.

[MA] He's ready.

[B] (UN-ENTHUSED) Great.

Birkoff starts inputting the problem code into a laptop. Madeline hears the tone in his voice.

[MA] Birkoff ..., remember, this is not about who's smarter than whom.

Birkoff looks up and briefly meets Madeline's gaze.

[B] (UNENTHUSIASTIC) Yeah, I know.

[MA] He'll challenge you. Stay above it. We have an objective and a deadline.

Birkoff nods his acknowledgment, and Madeline leaves him to finish transferring the code.


INTERIOR - SECTION / GREG'S ROOM

Greg is, again, working on the computer when Birkoff enters.

[GH] (SCORNFUL JOCULARITY) Ha-hey, its Birkoff! ... Come on in! How's it going, Birkoff?

Birkoff ignores Greg's juvenile obnoxiousness, just puts the laptop down and starts keying in commands to bring up the code.

[GH] Good. You know what? I wish you guys would let me in deeper, because there's really not too more I can fix here.

[B] (STARTLED) Fix?!

[GH] Yeah, you had some bad modification dates in your .. ah .. master symbol table.

Birkoff leans over to see what is on Greg's monitor.

[B] Which one?

[GH] Don't worry. I fixed 'em.

Birkoff looks down at Greg a moment, manages to shrug off the slight and gets back to the job at hand.

[B] Let's just get to work, okay? (SARCASTIC) Then you can go back home to your Mommy. ...

[GH] Sure. ... So ..., you're the guy who couldn't break the code.

[B] (DEFENSIVE) Yeah, I haven't devoted my entire life to one obscure corner of technology.

[GH] (AMUSED SNIFF) Non-linear principal components? (NEEDLE) Yeah! ... I remember that ..., six months, actually. It was fun. Did it at .. ah .. UCLA. I learned to surf that summer.

Birkoff again ignores the challenge and pulls up the code.

[B] Here it is. Birkoff stands back, arms crossed, unconsciously silently challenging Greg.

[GH] Let's take a look.

Greg slides his chair over to the laptop and gets to work.

[GH] Hmmm. Its got an outer shell. It's a big decoy ...

Greg turns and looks up at Birkoff.

[GH] (OBNOXIOUS) if you're six years old! When Birkoff won't play 'word upmanship,' Greg turns back to the laptop. Even while working on the code, he can't help throwing questions and verbal darts at Birkoff.

[GH] (SNIFFS) So, what is this place?

[B] Just work.

[GH] (NEEDLE) What's the matter, Birkoff, can't you chew gum and walk at the same time?

It's getting harder, but Birkoff manages to keep his cool. Greg is intrigued, curious.

[GH] What'd they do ..., kidnap you, too? Greg turns and looks up at Birkoff, but Birkoff refuses to answer.

[GH] (BIG SIGH) Okay, watch this.

Greg types in some commands. The screen shows a red grid in which graphs materialize like mountain ranges. Birkoff's eyes widen when he watches Greg work, which the teenager realizes.

[GH] You like that, huh?

[B] (AMAZEMENT) That function wasn't in the program.

[GH] (GLEEFUL) I know.

Greg types in another command, then slides his chair away from the laptop.

[GH] So (BORED SIGH), what do you wanna do now?

[B] (SURPRISED DISBELIEF) What do you Mean? You're done?!

Greg gets up, wanders over to the bed, and sprawls across its width.

[GH] (DISINTEREST) Of course not, Einstein. It's got to cycle through.

Birkoff can't seem to take his eyes away from the monitor.

[B] How long's it gonna take?

[GH] (DISINTEREST) On that piece of crap? I don't know ..., twelve hours.

[B] Could it go any faster?

Birkoff looks over at a reclining Greg.

[GH] Not unless you've got a multi-threaded O.S. hanging around the bat cave.

Birkoff looks back at the monitor.

[B] (THOUGHTFUL) We've got one. I can't take you there.

Birkoff's answer has Greg sitting up.

[GH] Patch me in.

Greg's reply has Birkoff giving him a "you've got to be kidding" look. He sees the answer in Birkoff's eyes and holds his hands up.

[GH] ... Read Only. I can't touch anything. You'll have your code in ... two hours.

[B] I can't give you that kind of access.

Greg turns away and nods, throwing out another challenge.

[GH] You're right.

Greg lays down on the bed.

[GH] It's safer to have a guy like me outside the firewall. (NEEDLE) Its not like we're in a hurry or anything.

Birkoff thinks a moment. This time the challenge is too irresistible to resist. His ability to keep Greg out of his computer system's inner workings and quickly break the code - against the havoc the teenager could wrought if he manages to slide past Birkoff's security nets. Birkoff reaches up and pulls down a computer hook-up, which he connects to the back of the laptop.

[B] All right, I'll go up ..., open a channel.

Greg doesn't move from his prone position on the bed.

[GH] Good, maybe I can get out of here.

[B] That'd be nice.

Birkoff leaves to finish the connection.


INTERIOR - SECTION / MADELINE'S ROOM

Michael enters and walks over to Madeline, who is seated at her stand-alone computer against the far wall.

[M] I've just heard from Birkoff. Greg was successful. He broke the code.

Madeline looks up and meets Michael's gaze.

[MA] What did it tell us?

[M] The transmission was sent from a small village in South Africa.

[MA] Prepare a Team.

Michael nods and leaves to select a Team for the Mission.


INTERIOR - SECTION / COMM

Nikita enters the Common Area and wanders over to Birkoff, who's seated at his station in Comm.

[N] Hey. So I hear Boy Wonder came through.

[B] (PSEUDO DISINTEREST) Yeah.

Nikita hears the tone in Birkoff's voice and studies his face for a moment.

[N] (TEASE) Don't mope, Birkoff. ... It doesn't become you.

Nikita walks around and takes a chair next to his desk. Birkoff meets Nikita's stare for a moment, before looking off into space.

[B] (RECOLLECTION) You know what really bugs me? I was just like him when I was his age. Thought I had all the answers.

[N] (DRY HUMOR) But, he does.

[B] (EARNEST) No, he doesn't! ... He's got everybody fooled. He's a one-trick pony.

[N] (SMILES) Okay, so when's the 'pony' going home?

Birkoff sighs and turns back to his computer.

[B] (SLIGHT SMILE) That's your job.

This news has Nikita sitting up straight.

[N] I'm not on Team One?

[B] (DRY TONE) You're Greggie's ride home.

Nikita smiles in appreciation of his dry wit, gets up, then leans down so her head is level with Birkoff's.

[N] Don't worry, Birkoff. You're still my favorite overachiever.

With that Nikita leans over, gives him a peck on the cheek, winks at him, then leaves to retrieve Greg. Birkoff returns his attention back to his work, his humor improved.


INTERIOR - SECTION / GREG'S ROOM

Nikita enters Greg's room, swinging the hood Greg needs to wear in her hand.

[N] (RAISED VOICE) I've got good news, Greg, you're going home.

The room appears deserted.

[N] Greg?

Nikita walks in, checks the bathroom, looks around once more, then contacts Birkoff.

[N] (INTERCOM) Birkoff, I thought you said he was in his room. ....


SECTION / COMM

[N] (VOICE) Did someone else come pick him up?

[B] No. Why?


SECTION / GREG'S ROOM

Nikita now glances over and sees something on the computer's monitor.


SECTION / COMM

[B] Is everything okay?

[N] (VOICE) Yeah, he's here. .. Never mind.


SECTION / GREG'S ROOM

Nikita bolts out of the room. The monitor shows a drawing of a boy [Greg, I presume] sitting on a pier, fishing. As the image hooks and pulls a fish with Birkoff's head out of the water the words, "GONE FISHING," flash across the screen at the same time you hear a computer generated voice say the phrase.


INTERIOR - SECTION / CORRIDOR

Nikita is in major 'freak' mode. She hurries down Section corridors trying to be inconspicuous while at the same time searching for Greg.


INTERIOR - SECTION / COMMON AREA

Nikita enters the Common Area, staying in the background until she sees Birkoff grab some disks and leave.


INTERIOR - SECTION / COMM

As soon as Birkoff leaves, Nikita hurries over to his station and pulls up security camera views from all over Section. She quickly views camera angles of Section corridors, Van Access, Medical, a general computer room. ... Unfortunately, Nikita finds Greg in the worst place he could be - Systems' observation area watching a Team working on a project using the holograph program.


INTERIOR - SECTION / SYSTEMS

Greg occasionally checks over his shoulder to make sure he hasn't been discovered, but it is obvious that Systems' computers have dazzled him. Nikita is able to walk up behind him and slap her hand over his mouth.

[N] (FURIOUS WHISPER) Listen to me carefully, Greg. Has anyone seen you? ... Yes or No?

Greg shakes his head 'no.' Nikita drags him away from the railing, into a more obscure corner of the observation area. She slams him against the wall, still holding her hand against his mouth.

[N] (FURIOUS WHISPER) Here's what we're going to do. I'm gonna put this hood on your head and we're out of here. If anybody had found out that you've seen this place ..., you'd never leave here. Ever! Do you understand? (EMPHATIC) Do .. You .. Understand?

Greg nods he understands. Nikita removes her hand from his mouth - which she soon regrets.

[GH] (WHISPER) I don't want to leave.

Nikita looks at Greg like he's lost his mind.

[GH] (URGENT WHISPER) I don't ..., I don't want to leave. Have you've seen that stuff? They've got ten time the resources of any Think Tank they've ever wanted me to work at.

[N] (URGENT WHISPER) You're not hearing me!

Greg has forgotten the warning Madeline had given him earlier. He is full of himself - and the desire to play with the 'Section toys.'

[GH] (LOUDER BOASTFUL WHISPER) I'm hearing you .. just fine. "I'm never gonna get out, blah, blah, blah." But, you forget who I am! .. Computers .. control .. this .. whole .. compound. Who controls the computers ..., I do!

Nikita is almost speechless. She would give anything to be where Greg is now, and he's throwing his chances for a free future away. She now tries to use his home life to bring him around.

[N] (FURIOUS WHISPER) Well, what about your mother?

[GH] (LOUDER WHISPER) If I miss her ..., I'll leave. I can find a way. Believe me. But, that's gonna be a while .., 'cause I like it here.

Nikita loses it. She tightens her grip and slams him against the wall.

[N] (WHISPER) Do you know what this place is? Do you any idea what they do here?

[GH] (LOUDER WHISPER) I don't know ..., intelligence gathering for some multi-national corporation ..., who cares? Whoever you are, those are some really expensive toys. You've got enough R&D dollars to do some really serious damage.

Nikita gives Greg a sad smile, thinking to end the 'discussion.'

[N] (WHISPER) You're going home.

[GH] (ALMOST NORMAL) Okay, aren't you forgetting something, Barbie? I've already seen this place. I'm gonna tell somebody and they'll make me stay .....

Nikita slaps her hand back over Greg's mouth to shut him up.

[N] (THREATENING WHISPER) You say a word and I'll .. break .. your .. neck. Got it?

Greg nods his head.

[N] Good. Walk slowly, boy.

With that Nikita pushes Greg out of Section's observation area.


INTERIOR - SECTION / CORRIDOR

Nikita leads Greg down a Section corridor.

[GH] Where are we going?

[N] I want to show you something.


INTERIOR - SECTION / GAMBIT'S OBSERVATION ROOM

Greg hears screaming as soon as he enters the room. When Nikita pulls the hood off he sees a man shackled to the same post Kessler ["GAMBIT's" 'Hannibal the Cannibal' was confined]. The man's head is encased in a cage-like brace that is attached to a set of cable wiring hanging from the ceiling. You can't see the man's expression or eyes, because of the brace, but the screams pretty much give away what he's feeling. Two Operatives are taking turns shocking him with what look like cattle prods. They also stop when it looks like their subject is about to pass out. It is very apparent that Greg has never seen someone deliberately tortured.

[GH] (SICKENED) Oh God!

For a minute it looks like Greg is about to get sick. Nikita is standing behind him, leaning against the back wall.

[N] (COLD) You like that? .. Because you better get used to it if you want to hang here. Happens every day.

Greg seems unable to take his eyes of this tableau he's witnessing, and tries to find a reasonable explanation for the torture.

[GH] (HORRIFIED) What is he? ... Some kind of criminal?

[N] (MATTER-OF-FACT) No. .. That's Dave. He works here.

[GH] (HORRIFIED) Why are they doing that to him?

[N] He made a mistake. Had lunch with an old girlfriend in London.

[GH] (CONFUSED) I don't get it.

Tears are slowly running down Greg's face without him being aware of it.

[N] They thought maybe he told her about this place. He probably didn't, but they wanted to make sure ..., before they kill him.

Nikita realizes that Greg's has seen about all he can take, and moves up to stand behind him.

[N] (QUIET) Now, we're going to go back to your room, and we are gonna get your things. And then we're going to leave. ...

Nikita reaches over and puts a comforting hand on Greg's shoulder.

[N] And you'll never tell anybody about any of this ..., right?

Greg is beyond speech, all he can do is nod his head. Nikita gives him another consoling pat.


INTERIOR - SECTION / CORRIDOR

Nikita is escorting a very subdued Greg down a corridor, the hood back in place. Nikita still has her arm around his shoulders, and gives him gentle pats of comfort. Suddenly, a large imposing Operative rounds the corner. It is apparent his objective is to intercept them. Nikita immediately grabs Greg and backs him against her chest, unconsciously trying to hold off what she knows is about to come. Madeline, with another Operative, appears around the corner at the opposite end of the corridor. They are unnoticed by Nikita until Madeline speaks.

[MA] (TO OPERATIVE) Take the boy.

As the first Operative takes Greg from Nikita and escorts him over to Madeline, he immediately begins to struggle.

[GH] (STRUGGLING, YELLING) NO! No! Let me alone!

Nikita and Madeline do not break eye contact until Greg reaches Madeline, who pulls off the hood covering his head. Nikita briefly looks down, having trouble watching Greg lose what so recently was a bright and free future.

[GH] (PANIC) What are you doing ..., I'm gonna see stuff?!

[MA] (UNEMOTIONAL) You already have. I tried to warn you, Greg. (TO OPERATIVES) Take him.

The two Operatives escort Greg away, leaving Madeline and Nikita alone.

[MA] So ..., what do we do about you now?

Nikita doesn't make excuses for herself, just tries to get Madeline to rethink how she handles Greg.

[N] He's a teenage boy with an extraordinary mind. ... Who knows what he'll accomplish or how many people will .. benefit if he lives. ... You want to lock him up because that's what the rule book says?

[MA] Your point is well-taken. ... But these aren't easy decisions. I don't enjoy making them.

Nikita is embittered with what just occurred, and even though it is Greg's fault, she takes it out on Madeline.

[N] (HOSTILE) I think you do. ... I think you go home to bed every night ..., hoping someone will screw up, so you can make your "hard decisions."

Madeline realizes Nikita is lashing out in anger, and acts as if she hadn't heard Nikita's last sentence.

[MA] I'll overlook this incident for now ..., (WARNING) but we will be watching you more closely.

Madeline walks away, leaving Nikita alone in the corridor, shaking her head in sorrow at what Greg unthinkingly threw away.


SKIES OVER JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
EXTERIOR - SECTION CARGO PLANE

Michael and his Mission Teams are en route to seize the Group who created the code.


INTERIOR - SECTION CARGO PLANE

Michael has noticed an anomaly in the information Greg pulled from the code, and contacts Birkoff.

[M] Birkoff, are you there?

[B] (VOICE) are you seeing it, too?

Michael's monitor shows their target moving across the geographic schematic.

[M] Why is the beacon moving?

[B] (VOICE) I don't know, I thought we were suppose to be locked on.

[M] Could the target be moving?


INTERIOR - SECTION / COMM

[B] Not three times the speed of sound.

[M] (VOICE) What does it mean?

[B] It means ..., the sequence Greg extracted from the code is self-modifying.


SECTION CARGO PLANE

[M] A virus?

[B] (VOICE) (PONDERING) Could be.


SECTION / COMM

[B] Maybe Amadeus didn't catch it.


SECTION CARGO PLANE

[B] (VOICE) I'll see if I can separate out some clean data. Give me a minute here ...

[And unfortunately, this is where Michael spends the remainder of the episode - in a holding pattern over Johannesburg. I think this episode gives Michael Season's Two smallest portion of the action. Bummer!]


INTERIOR - NIKITA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Nikita is in her kitchen washing dishes when she hears a commotion coming from Barry's apartment. She walks over and stands next to her front door, hearing moans and grunts of pain coming from across the hall. Nikita vacillates a moment, not wanting to be sucked into a situation that could expose herself to the police. However, she weakens when the sounds continue. She opens her door a crack and peeps out.

[BA] (FRIGHTENED VOICE) You got it wrong! You - You've got it all wrong! I went right from the bar to Rod's place. If you're light, then talk to Rod. Not me.

Barry's door opens and you see a hallway full of boxes. Two men exit, one wiping his hand on a handkerchief.

[T] We'll be back in an hour. (WARN) You better have it, Barry.

As they close Barry's door and walk down the hall, Nikita correspondingly closes her door, confused between her impression of Barry and what she just heard. Suddenly, Nikita remembers the box she's holding for him. She whips around and stares at the box sitting on top of her kitchen cabinets a moment, before retrieving and opening it. She removes all the items and finds a false bottom in the box. The contents in the hidden compartment confirms Nikita's fears. The overheard conversation now makes distasteful sense.


INTERIOR - SECTION / OPERATIONS' PERCH

The same two Operatives that removed him from Nikita's care escort Greg into Operations' office. Operations was staring at one of the back panels when they enter, but now turns to face Greg, dismissing the men.

[O] Thank you.

Greg has to show the departing Operatives he's not afraid, turning his face in their direction as he speaks.

[GH] (RAISED VOICE) Yeah, thanks.

Greg cockily faces Operations, already disregarding what happened to Dave when he made a mistake, and is seeing this as just another challenge.

[O] That was a stupid thing you did, Greg.

Greg doesn't reply, but his body language shows he doesn't fear or feel threatened by Operations. [I think this is what ticks Operations off, the thought that he can make almost every captured Target and Operative in Section shake in fear, but can't faze a teenager.]

[O] Unfortunately ..., this place cannot tolerate mistakes. You've seen that. [Aha! It seems Operations is aware of Nikita giving Greg a little idea of Section's persuasion tactics.]

[GH] (UNIMPRESSED) Spare me the lecture, Old Folks. Are you going let me go or not?

[O] (SMALL SMILE) No, we're not.

[GH] (SMILE) Hmmm. You may want to reconsider that.

[O] And why would I want to do that?

[GH] ( COCKY) Ask Birkoff.

[O] (CONCERN) Birkoff?

Operations stares at Greg a moment, then walks over to his window. He has a clear view of Comm when he contacts Birkoff, and immediately notices that something is going on.

[O] (INTO MIC) Birkoff.

[B] (TENSE VOICE) Sir, I'm sorry, we're in the middle of a multiple anomaly.

Operations quickly looks over at Greg before asking for details.

[O] (CURT) What's wrong?

[B] (DISTRACTED) The decoded sequence is generating a virus that's bleeding into the system.

[O] The entire system?

Birkoff hasn't stopped working as he speaks with Operations.

[B] Yeah.

Operations breaks the connection and looks at Greg, who is wearing a very cocky expression on his face.

[GH] I might be able to fix that for you.

Operations realizes Greg knew about the possibility of a virus before he left on his little sight-seeing tour of Section.


INTERIOR - SECTION / COMM

Birkoff and the rest of his people are franticly trying to stem the imminent collapse of their communication system. Birkoff is standing, overseeing the Techs working at computer stations. He hears Roberta having trouble communicating with a Mission Team and moves so he can see her monitor.

[R] (TO BIRKOFF) We're not receiving. (INTO MIC) Are you there?

[B] Use analog.

[R] But its not secure.

[B] Doesn't matter. All our digital channels are being corrupted by this thing.

Birkoff notices work another Tech is trying to finish.

[B] That's a non-essential process. Kill it! Call NATO Comm, find out if we can borrow some of their bandwidth.

Birkoff sees Operations standing nearby observing the activity and steps out to bring him up to date.

[B] It's getting worse. Our communication integrity is down almost eighty percent.

[O] How many places are we mid-Mission?

[B] Three. I'm trying to work around it.

[M] And Michael?

[B] He's in a holding pattern outside Johannesburg. I'm still trying to figure out if the location Hillinger extracted from the code is real.

[O] Hillinger says he can make the problem go away, if we let him go.

Birkoff is angry at himself for making if possible for Greg to put Section in this position.

[B] I'm sorry. I should have seen this coming.

Operations doesn't want apologies or excuses, just a solution.

[O] (IMPATIENT) This is just a game to him. One that we can't let him win. Can you get us out of this?

Birkoff briefly looks back at the situation in Comm, then meets Operations' eyes.

[B] (SUBDUED) No. He's too good.

[This scene shows how much Birkoff has matured. It is apparent from the look he gives Operations that he thinks the answer he gives could put him on the Abeyance List. But, even thinking this, he gives Operations a straight answer because he realizes that it is more important that the crisis be rectified.] Operations stares at Birkoff at moment, then leaves. Birkoff stands watching Operations walk away, then returns to Comm.


INTERIOR - NIKITA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Nikita is standing next to her kitchen, leaning against the hall closet door munching on an apple. She appears to be waiting for something. Suddenly, there is a rapid knocking at her door. Nikita doesn't move, just keeps munching. However, when the knocking repeats (with both the sound and number of knocks increased), Nikita walks over and opens the door.

[N] Hi, Barry.

Barry looks like he ran into a brick wall - besides appearing both anxious and troubled.

[BA] (HARRIED) Um, Nikita, I need - I need that thing back.

[N] Come on in.

Nikita starts walking towards her bedroom.

[BA] Um ..., um, I'm really in ... I'm in - I'm in really a hurry.

[N] (UNFAZED) Sure.

Barry watches Nikita, wanting to hurry her, but not wishing to appear impolite to someone who did him a favor. Nikita retrieves the box from the top of her wardrobe.

[N] (SPEAKING FROM BEDROOM) So, why are you in such a hurry?

[BA] (DISTRACTED) Oh, it's a ..., its just been a crazy day. Ah ..., thank you.

When Nikita nears Barry with the box, his eyes light up and he puts his hands out to accept it. However, Nikita ignores his outstretched hands and walks past him.

[N] I'm listening.

Barry doesn't understand why Nikita is acting like this, but follows her, still trying to be cordial.

[BA] (DISTRACTED) Ah. No, no ..., its - its - its - its just personal stuff and its - its - its not important.

Nikita drops the box on her kitchen counter and puts her hand on top of it, making it plain that Barry is not to touch the box.

[N] So, how's the kids?

Barry can only look at Nikita in confusion.

[N] Or was that a lie, too?

[BA] (SHOCK) No!

Barry is trying to convince her of his sincerity, but can't help giving the box another quick glance.

[N] Barry, if you want the box back, why don't you tell me what's going on?

Barry shakes his head in confusion.

[BA]What - what are you talking about?

[N] Barry, what are you doing with half a kilogram of heroin?

This stops Barry for a second. He stares at Nikita, appalled at what she has discovered, his mouth hanging halfway open.

[BA] Look, its - its not what you thinking. I've never done ... this before. ... (WHIPPED TONE) I lost my job, and my family ..., and if I can just get enough money to get back on my feet ..., I can get us back together again.

[N] Selling drugs?

[BA] Yeah .., but just - just this once. Just - just till I get back on my feet.

[N] Then why am I holding it for you? Hmmm?

Barry closes his eyes, then confesses.

[BA] (SIGHS) Okay, I got ..., I got greedy and I skimmed a little .., and - and I didn't think anybody would notice.

[N] But they did.

[BA] (BEATEN) It doesn't - it doesn't matter, because I'm just gonna give it back to them now, and that will be the end of it.

[N] (SCORNFUL) That's crap!

Barry gives a small, hurt laugh.

[BA] I guess I was wrong about you. I thought you were my friend.

Barry reaches over and starts to slide the box over to himself. Nikita lays her hand on the box, once more stopping him.

[N] (SINCERE) I am.

Someone is heard pounding on Barry's door. Barry looks over his shoulder, toward the sound, then looks longingly down at the box, before meeting Nikita's gaze.

[BA] That's them, okay, I've got to go now.

Nikita gets the attention of Barry's business associates in a simple, yet effective, fashion.

[N] (CALLING) Hey, guys! We're in here. We got your heroin.

Nikita goes back to munching on her apple, while Barry looks at her in disbelief. [Let us just say that I haven't noticed that Barry exactly 'shines' under pressure.] After a short pause, the same men that visited Barry earlier enter Nikita's apartment. The senior thug looks around the apartment, then zeros in on Barry and Nikita.

[T] What's going on, Barry?

[BA] Yeah, I forgot - forgot, I left it .. in here.

Barry grabs the box, walks over to the other end of the kitchen counter out of Nikita's reach and opens it.

[BA] (RUMMAGING THROUGH BOX) Oh, umm ....

Nikita doesn't bother to look at her new guests or watch her neighbor disemboweling his box. She just continues to nibble at her apple. However, when Barry removes his possessions and opens the hidden compartment - it's empty. When he doesn't find the heroin, Barry walks over and confronts Nikita.

[BA] (BAFFLED) Where is it?

[NA] (MATTER OF FACT) I flushed it down the toilet.

Barry blinks, not believing Nikita would do such a thing.

[BA] Wha ....?

Barry looks over at his associates - who don't look amused - and gives a very nervous laugh.

[BA] (TO THUGS) She's - she's kidding ..., (TO NIKITA) right?

Nikita also looks over at the thugs and shakes her head.

[N] (TO THUGS) No, I'm not.

By now, Barry is so 'freaked' that he's incapable of speech. He can only look first at Nikita, then the other men.

[N] (MATTER-OF-FACT) See, a lot of people who sells drugs, sell 'em to kids. They use them (SHRUGS SHOULDERS), they get addicted.

Thug #1 has had it. He's in no mood to play word games with Nikita. He pulls his gun and aims it at Nikita.

[T] (THREAT) Look, lady, I don't know who you are ..., but you better come up with those bags ..., right now! (UNPLEASANT SCOWL) Okay?

Nikita pulls out her "scared innocent" portrayal - giving the Thug a timid look as she nods her head.

[N] Sure, okay. (TO THUGS) Put down the gun ..., please?

Nikita looks over at Barry, as if looking to him for support, but the poor guy is frozen with fear. Barry's expression indicates he thinks he and Nikita are about to be murdered [and he's in the middle of a quick mental run through of his life.].

[N] Barry, will you tell him to put down the gun? The minute Thug #1 looks over at Barry, Nikita swings into action. She picks up an empty metal vase on the kitchen counter and starts swinging - first knocking the gun out of Thug #1's hand before whacking both guys in the head, knocking them out. As Nikita jumps over one thug and grabs the gun of the other, she spits out a command to Barry.

[N] (RAISED VOICE) Leave. ... Leave!

Barry had watched, dumbstruck, as Nikita incapacitated his 'associates' in seconds. Now he can only stare at Nikita in amazement. [I did notice that Barry did jam his legs into reverse and slowly start to back out of Nikita's apartment the minute she uttered the last "leave."]

[BA] (WHAT) What ....?

Nikita hops over the smaller thug's prone body to reach the table where she keeps her phone.

[N] Pack up your things and go. (RAISED VOICE) Now! Barry backs toward Nikita's front door, still not believing what he just witnessed. He points down at one of the floored thugs.

[BA] (SHOCK) But - but .., what's gonna happen ....?

Nikita is busy dialing, and loses patience with Barry.

[N] (SNAPS) GO!

Barry's convinced Nikita has the situation well in hand and bolts for his own apartment. Meanwhile, Nikita has reached Section.

[N] (INTO PHONE) Three Five Seven Black ..., I've been exposed.

One of the thugs starts to come round. Nikita guards the men with one of their guns as, for once, she puts Section to good use.

[N] (INTO PHONE) Send Housekeeping.


INTERIOR - SECTION / GREG'S ROOM

Greg is back working on the computer in his assigned room. The door opens and Birkoff enters. The younger Tech doesn't bother to turn around.

[B] I guess you heard. They're letting you go.

[GH] (CAUSTIC) Ho, ho! There's a surprise.

Greg keys in a few more commands.

[GH] (SIGHS) Okay, I've eradicated most of the virus. (WARNING) I'm not gonna kill it all .. till I'm safe.

[B] Sure.

Birkoff doesn't seem to be listening to Greg, just looks around the room for the teenager's belongings.

[GH] (SLIGHTLY ACERBIC) And I suppose I don't have to tell a smart boy like you that if the virus is left unattended it'll come back worse than before.

[B] (MATTER OF FACT) I know, Greg. It's your world, we just live in it.

Greg smiles and swings his chair to face Birkoff. He thinks a moment, agreeing - and savoring - Birkoff's last statement.

[GH] You know what? I never thought about it like that, Seymour, but you're probably right.

Birkoff doesn't respond to the taunt, just tosses Greg his backpack. [Poor Birkoff. He now has been told or has realized that he's going to have to deal with Greg for at least another decade or two. What's worse, he could be looking at his future replacement. If you look at this episode carefully, you'll realize that there is really nothing here that Birkoff can celebrate. How would you like it if, at 21, you were told that your family has 'adopted' a young, teenage brother who is smarter than you ..., will probably never leave home and - at some point - will join the family business ... in your position?]

[GH] Thanks.

Greg gets up and walks through the door Birkoff holds open for him. Birkoff takes one more quick glance around the room, then follows Greg out the door.


INTERIOR - SECTION / MADELINE'S ROOM

Operations briefs Greg on the logistics of returning him. Besides Madeline, there are two Operatives (dressed to resemble Secret Service) waiting to escort Greg home.

[O] (CURT) You cover story will be that you were kidnapped and later recovered by the FBI.

[GH] Who were the kidnappers?

Operations paces around Greg as they talk.

[O] Bulgarian Nationalists.

Madeline is studying Greg from behind her desk.

[GH] (IMPRESSED) That's not bad. Okay, ah, they wanted me to .. ah .. help them develop a system for their Gamma Project ..., that'll fly with the NSA.

[MA] Before we can release you .., you'll need to sign several non-disclosure statements ..., then take a binding oath .. in the presence of an international officer.

Operations has been studying Greg's face while Madeline talks and notices the teen doesn't seem too happy about the oath and signed statements.

[O] You have a problem with that?

[GH] It just depends what's in the statements.

Operations turns his back to Greg, not wanting the boy to see his expression. Madeline realizes Operations has reached his boiling point and steps in to smooth things over. [Was that what was happening ..., or was it something else? To be honest, I don't see the logic in having Greg sign and swear to the above. What did they want to have - proof for his mother that they stole Greg fair and square? His reaction to the requests shows this was not something he needed to see to give a sense of normalcy to the proceedings. Sorry, I just don't see the reasoning here. I'll just take the easy way out and assume the original reasoning behind this dialogue was probably eradicated in an earlier draft of the script.] As she speaks she gets up and walks around her desk to stand in front of Greg.

[MA] (CONCILIATORY) I'm sure if the language is not to your liking .., you won't have any difficulty .. in suggesting .. alternatives we can both live with.

[GH] (COCKY) Sure ..., I'd be happy to help you out there, too.

Operations has his self-control back in place and turns around to face Greg, once more assuming command of the discussion.

[O] Birkoff will be going with you. ... As soon as you're back home, you'll give him the correction.

[GH] (COCKY) No problemo.

As Greg and his escorts leave, Operations and Madeline exchange looks, which seems to indicate Greg just walked into their stratagem.


EXTERIOR - HILLINGER RESIDENCE - NIGHT

Greg is returned home in a Mercedes. As he gets out of the car, the front door to his home opens and Rita Hillinger rushes down the sidewalk.

[RH] (FRANTIC CRY) GREG!

Greg's mother is stopped by the two Operatives who flank her. Greg realizes his mother has been stopped from reaching him and calls out to reassurance her.

[GH] (RAISED VOICE) It's okay, Mom. It's okay. I'm right here, okay? Right here.

Birkoff and the Operatives escorting Greg have emerged from the car as well. Nothing is said, but it is apparent that Greg doesn't get within touching distance of his mother until he keys in the final commands that will kill the virus. Birkoff opens a metal case housing a computer, then steps back so Greg can enter the last commands necessary to kill the virus.

[GH] (CAUSTIC) Okay. It's so simple ... when you know what you're doing.

Greg turns and briefly looks at Birkoff. He is full of himself, and can't help gloating. The monitor shows a green two dimensional grid. Once more the virus is shown as a series of spikes. And, once more, the program Greg inserts appears as tower-like columns that surround the virus. The top left of the monitor shows the program has been loaded, and the virus eradicated.

VIRUS TERMINATED.

[GH] (SUPERIOR SMILE) That's it. Greg turns to join his mother, but Birkoff hasn't finished, and has Greg's escorts stop him while he checks to make sure Greg terminated the virus.

[B] Not yet.

While Greg's escorts keep hold of him, Birkoff checks in with one of his Techs, Roberta, in Comm.

[B] (INTO MIC) Okay, Roberta, it's me. .


INTERIOR - SECTION / COMM

[B] (VOICE) Check out the file N6.BAK.

Roberta types in the code.

[R] Yup, I can read it.


HILLINGER RESIDENCE

[B] And our line to Johannesburg?

As Birkoff talks to Roberta, Greg looks over his shoulder at his mother, still held by Operatives from coming any closer.

[R] (VOICE) We're on.

[B] Okay, we're up and running.

Birkoff looks over at one of the Operatives holding Greg.

[B] He's clear.

Greg's escorts release him and he starts to walk towards his mother.

[B] See ya, later.

[Man, does Birkoff sound depressed about this!] Greg briefly looks back at Birkoff, unable to resist one last quip.

[GH] Yeah. It's too bad you're stuck here. (JAB) I could always use another assistant.

Birkoff watches as Greg is enfolded in Rita's arms.

[B] I'm fine, Mom.

While Greg continues to reassure his mother, Birkoff contacts Roberta again.

[B] Okay, Roberta, it's me, again. I want you to do a warm boot on the entire system.

[R] (VOICE) The entire system?


SECTION / COMM

[R] If we're not clean, we'll lose too much data.


HILLINGER RESIDENCE

[B] It's the only way we'll know for sure.


SECTION / COMM

[R] (RELUCTANT) Okay.


HILLINGER RESIDENCE

While Birkoff waits for Roberta to get back to him, he hears part of Greg's conversation with his mother.

[GH] They didn't hurt me or anything. One of them ....

[R] (VOICE) We're up and running.

[B] Okay, we're done.

[I know Close Captioning said the line below was "it paid off," but the script has the line as "pay it off," so I'm going with the script.] Birkoff turns the computer off and looks back at Greg as he closes the case.

[B] (INTO MIC) Pay it off.

Greg and his mother have reached their front door when he realizes the Operatives escorting him and his mother haven't left. He stops and turns to face them.

[GH] (IMPATIENT) What are you guys still doing here?

[RH] (NIKITA'S VOICE) You're going with them.

Greg wheels around to stare at his 'mother.' He watches in bewilderment as she reaches up and peels away a mask made to resemble his mother to reveal Nikita, wearing a sad but closed expression.

[N] I'm sorry, Greg.

Nikita has to looks away from Greg's stunned expression.

[N] (QUIET) You should've listened.

The Operatives grab Greg again and start to walk him back to the car.

[GH] ( WHIMPER) What are you going to do to me?

[N] We have to take you back.

[GH] For how long?

Nikita stops, but says nothing. Greg looks over, sees Birkoff watching the proceedings and realizes he is looking at his own future. Birkoff holds his look a moment, then turns away. Greg's face now wears a sick expression.

[GH] Oh, God.

And now Greg thinks about how Section will 'handle' his mother.

[GH] (PANIC) What about my Mom? Where's my Mom?

[N] She won't even know we were here.

[GH] (FEARFUL) Am I ever going to see her again?

Nikita can't make herself say the words, so she just reaches out and lays a comforting hand on his shoulder. She watches as Greg is once more escorted to the car and placed inside. The Operatives that were with Nikita during her characterization of Rita Hillinger have returned to their car and wait for her to join them. However, she just stands and watches as the car carrying Greg drives away, before slowly walking toward her own vehicle.


INTERIOR - SECTION / MADELINE'S ROOM

Operations enters and gives Madeline a status report on the group who created the virus.

[O] Michael just got back from Johannesburg.

Madeline is working at her desk. She looks up when Operations enters.

[MA] And?

[O] The location was destroyed. We've brought back hostiles.

Operations takes a seat in front of her desk.

[MA] What about the hardware?

[O] They stripped it. It's being reverse engineered.

[MA] Who was behind it?

[O] (DRY) Oh, just another group of insane misfits empowered by technology.

Operations gets up, smiling, and removes his glasses.

[O] (DRY) Another day at the office?

Madeline smiles in appreciation of his witticism. Operations turns to go, then thinks of something.

[O] What about Hillinger?

[MA] I'm working on an integration program.

[O] What's his survival likelihood?

[MA] Over 92 percent, actually. .. He's a surprisingly good match.

Operations' expression shows this is not what he wanted to hear - the good match part, that is. [I compare his expression to Nikita's when she's told she's becoming a good Operative. They both look like you just insulted them.] Operations stares at Madeline a moment, before exiting, leaving her to get back to her interrupted work.


INTERIOR - NIKITA'S APARTMENT

Nikita is lifting weights. Her appearance shows she has been working out for some time. However, its not keeping the thoughts at bay, and she finally drops the weight in surrender. Her face mirrors the sadness she's feeling for Greg's lost future. She gets up, goes to the refrigerator and removes a carton of milk - drinking directly from the spout, draining the contents. She then turns and drops it in the trash. As she walks away you see the backside of the container. It is a "Have You Seen Me" advertisement for missing children. The picture on the container is Greg.


END OF EPISODE