Aeryn and Crichton find themselves getting closer while working in cramped surroundings, but Aeryn quickly derails the romantic encounter before it can get started. Soon after, the crew encounters one of the Breakaway Colonies, worlds settled by Sebaceans that are independent of the Peacekeepers and neutral in their conflict with the Scarrans. Relaxing in a nightclub, they observe one of the planet’s courtship rituals – a man and woman place a drop of liquid on their tongues and then kiss; the resultant taste reveals the two’s genetic compatibility or lack thereof. One of the club’s patrons, Katralla, is particularly urgent in her search. She is heir to the planet’s throne, but unless she can find a mate in the next two days, she will lose her status and the throne will pass to her younger brother Clavor. What Katralla doesn’t know is that Clavor has sabotaged her DNA, mutating it to be incompatible with any Sebacean. But what Clavor doesn’t know is that the mutations make her compatible with humans. So when Katralla performs the ritual with Crichton, there is much rejoicing – on everyone’s part but Crichton, who’s less than eager to enter an arranged marriage. The planet’s matriarch has one more ace up her sleeve – Scorpius has arrived, and Crichton has just two options: marry the princess, or be turned over to the Peacekeeper.
written by David Kemper
directed by Andrew Prowse and Tony Tilse
music by Guy GrossGuest Cast: Wayne Pygram (Scorpius), Felicity Price (Princess Katralla), Bianca Chiminello (Jenavian Charto), Matt Day (Counsellor Elka Tyno), Tina Bursill (Empress Novia), Felix Williamson (Prince Clavor), Aaron Cash (Dregon), Gavin Robins (Cargn), Francesca Buller (ro-NA), Jonathan Hardy (Kahaynu)
LogBook entry by Dave Thomer