******************* star trek: generations script! ******************
fade in:
1 ext. space (vfx-i) 1
a vast and sparkling starfield. a pinpoint of light appears and starts
moving toward the camera. a small and distant cylindrical object
tumbling end over end, but we can't determine exactly what it is yet.
2 ext. wheatfield- day 2
a vast and undulating sea of wheat. we become aware that there are two
heads sticking out of the stalks of wheat: two men standing and looking
up at the sky. as we move towards them, we can see that the two men are
scotty and chekov, dressed in civilian clothing.
chekov
(points to sky)
there he is- there, to the south!
scotty
(peers upward)
what are ye, blind? that's a bird.
as they stare up at the sky
3 ext. space (vfx-i) 3
the cylinder tumbling through space is now closer, and we can now see
that it is a bottle of some sort, and it is tumbling directly toward the
camera.
4 ext. wheatfield- day 4
as before, chekov and scotty staring at the sky.
scotty
(concerned)
repelling the crystalline trench, rafting down lava flows, orbital
skyspaning.it's like the man is running a bloody decathlon across the
galaxy.
suddenly we hear a double sonic boom.
chekov
that should be him now. i think he's just crossed the sound barrier.
they shield their eyes against the sun and look up.
5 ext. space (vfx-i) 5
the bottle gets closer.
6 ext. wheatfield- day 6
a man in a high-tech body harness and parachute lands in the wheat flat
on his back. his body-suit is charred, scorched, wisps of smoke still
curling off it. there are small thrusters attached to his backpack and
boots. scotty and chekov move to him. the man removes his helmet. it is
kirk. he smiles broadly, like a child who has just come off a
rollercoaster.
kirk
right on target! i jump out over the arabian peninsula and i end up
here, right on the dime.
kirk gets to his feet.
chekov
actually, captain, your precise target area was thirty-five meters
(points)that way.
kirk
thanks for pointing that out.
kirk starts to pull off his suit, reacts to a sudden pain in his back.
kirk
oh
scotty
i've warned ye about that back of yours. you should have a doctor take a
look at it.
kirk waves him away, and continues to remove his harness.
6a ext. space (vfx-i) 6a
the tumbling bottle rushes past, and we can now see that it is a
champagne bottle- dom perignon, 2265. follow the bottle as it tumbles
through space.
6b ext. wheatfield- day 6b
kirk, scotty and chekov as before.
kirk
tomorrow i want to make a tri-elliptical jump. that's where you jump out
over northern china and make three complete orbits before you start
re-entry.
chekov
captain. perhaps you have forgotten that tomorrow is the christening
ceremony.
this strikes a nerve with kirk- we see a flash of hesitation and
irritation cross his face.
kirk
i'm not going (beat) scotty, help me with this chute.
scotty
what do you mean, you're not going? we promised.
kirk
when i retired, i swore i'd never set foot on a starship again, and i
meant it.
chekov
captain=8a
kirk
(firm)
i don't want to hear anymore about it. i'm not going, and that's final.
7 ext. space (vfx-i) 7
the champagne bottle smashes onto the bow of a federation starship
(excelsior class) sitting in its dock in orbit around earth.
7a ext. space (vfx-i) 7a
follow the shards of glass from the bottle as they spread over the ship,
revealing the name on the hull: u.s.s. enterprise ncc-1701-b.
8 angle on spacedock window 8
a large picture window overlooking the starship in its berth. the window
is filled with people in starfleet uniforms, applauding the christening
of the ship (but we hear nothing).
8a int. spacedock observation room (vfx-i) 8a
the people are still applauding and we can see that they are looking out
over the ship in its berth.
8b ext. space- enterprise-b in spacedock (vfx-i) 8b
the great ship sits in spacedock.
9 int. enterprise-b- bridge 9
close on a set of turbolift doors as they slide open to reveal kirk,
scotty and chekov. a bright light shines into their faces and they
react. move to reveal that the bright light is coming from a futuristic
camera with a small bank of lights attached to it. the camera is a
holographic recorder with two lenses and is worn on an operator's head.
there are four journalists clustered in front of the turbolift- one
associated with the camera, the others using padds to make notations.
also clustered around the door are the bridge crew of the
enterprise-b.everyone is applauding as kirk and the others blink under
the bright lights and enter the bridge.
journalists
(overlapping)
captain kirk, how does it feel to be back on the enterprise bridge=8a?
captain, can i have a minute? captain scott, do you have any comment on?
commander chekov
captain john harriman pushes through the crowd.
harriman
excuse me, excuse me=8a there will be plenty of time for questions
later.
the journalists edge away, and the cameraman moves to get a good angle.
harriman
(cont'd, to all)
i'm captain john harriman. i'd like to welcome you all aboard.
kirk
it's our pleasure.
harriman is young, confident, eager. this is his first command and he
takes it very seriously.
harriman
i just want you to know how excited we all are to have a group of living
legends with us on our maiden voyage. (beat) i remember reading about
your missions when i was in grade school.
the original enterprise officers all stop and give him a look. harriman
looks a little embarrassed- he didn't mean to insult them. but kirk
gives him a little smile, lets it roll off.
kirk
well, may we have a look around?
harriman
please, please.
chekov sees someone in the background, calls out to her.
chekov
demora!
chekov moves off.
journalist
(breezy)
so, captain=8a this is the first starship enterprise in thirty years
withoutjames t. kirk in command. how do you feel about that?
the journalist has unknowingly touched a nerve. kirk's eyes flash for
amoment- the longer he's on this bridge, the more he realizes he doesn't
feel good about it at all. he tries to shrug it off with a smile.
kirk
just fine. i'm glad to be here to send her on her way.
he tries to move away from the journalist, who dogs him.
journalist
what have you been doing since you retired?
kirk
i've been keeping busy.
at this point, chekov approaches with a young, mid-twenties, attractive,
asian female ensign named demora.
chekov
(to kirk)
excuse me, captain. i'd like you to meet the helmsman of the
enterprise-b. ensign demora sulu- captain james kirk.
demora
it's a pleasure to meet you, sir. my father's told me some interesting
stories about you.
kirk is shocked. for a long moment, he stares at her in amazement.
kirk
your father? hikaru sulu is your father?
demora
yes, sir.
chekov
you met her once before, but she was
chekov holds out his hand and indicates a very short height.
kirk
but that wasn't so long ago. it couldn't have been more than...
chekov
twelve years, sir.
kirk
yes, well, congratulations, ensign. it wouldn't be the enterprise
without a sulu at the helm.
demora
thank you, sir. (to chekov) let me show you the new inertial guidance
system.
demora and chekov move off and kirk looks after them for a long beat.
the expression on his face changes from shock to sadness. something is
clearly bothering him. scotty moves over to kirk, with a smile on his
face.
scotty
(to kirk)
damn fine ship if you ask me.
but kirk's mind is still on demora. he watches her as she moves to the
helmsman's position.
kirk
you know, scotty, it amazes me.
scotty
and what would that be, sir?
kirk
sulu. when did he find the time for a family?
scotty
it's like you always said- if something's important enough, you make the
time.
kirk nods absently. scotty realizes something.
scotty
so, that's why you've been running around the galaxy like an
eighteen-year-old. finding retirement a little lonely, are we?
kirk gives him a look.
kirk
with that kind of tact, i'm glad you're an engineer and not a
psychiatrist.
harriman interrupts.
harriman
excuse me, gentlemen, if you'll take your seats.
kirk
oh, of course.
10 new angle 10
revealing that three chairs have been neatly arranged to one side.
scotty, kirk and chekov all take their seats. the journalists take
positions on the opposite side of the bridge. harriman moves to the
command chair and the rest of the bridge crew go to their stations.
harriman
(to all)
prepare to leave spacedock. aft thrusters ahead one quarter, port and
starboard at station keeping. (beat) captain kirk, i'd be honored if you
would give the order to get underway.
kirk
no, no. thank you.
harriman
please, i insist.
all eyes on kirk- he has little choice. he stands uncomfortably. there
is a moment of anticipation.
kirk
(to all)
take us out.
everyone breaks into applause. kirk sits down in acute embarrassment and
annoyance.
chekov
(sotto)
very good, sir.
scotty
(sotto)
brought a tear to my eye.
cut to:
11 ext. space- enterprise-b (vfx-i) 11
the great ship majestically leaves the dock and heads out into open
space,passing directly overhead.
12 int. enterprise-b- bridge 12
a short time later. harriman turns to his guests.
harriman
well, we've just cleared the asteroid belt. our course will take us
outbeyond pluto and then back to spacedock. just a quick run around the
block. (beat) if we have time, we'll conduct a few tests of the warp-
suddenly the communications console starts to beep. the com officer hits
a few commands in response.
com officer
(to harriman)
we're picking up a distress call, captain.
this grabs everyone's attention.
harriman
on speakers.
we hear the voice of a crewmember who sounds panicked and urgent.
com voice
(fritzed)
this is the transport ship lakul. we're caught in some kind of
energydistortion. we can't break free... need immediate help... it'
tearing us-
the voice is drowned out by static. the science officer checks something
on his console. the journalist with the holo-camera turns on his light
and pans it around to capture the action.
science officer
the lakul is one of two ships transporting el-aurian refugees to earth.
harriman blinks a couple of times, surprised at this unexpected turn of
events. kirk watches him intently. harriman clears his throat, then
turns to demora.
harriman
can you locate them?
demora
harriman
signal the closest starship. we're in no condition to mount a rescue. we
don't even have a full crew aboard.
the navigator checks his console.
navigator
we're the only one in range, sir.
the holo-camera light is shined on harriman as he shifts in his seat,
hesitant to take the plunge. kirk is drumming his fingers impatiently on
his leg. finally, harriman takes a breath and straightens his jacket a
bit.
harriman
well, then, i guess it's up to us. (to demora) helm, lay in an intercept
course and engage at maximum warp.
kirk fidgets in his chair, itching to get in on the action- his
instincts taking over. scotty shoots him a side-long glance.
scotty
is there something wrong with your chair, captain?
kirk gives him a look.
13 ext. space- enterprise-b (vfx-i) 13
the ship snaps into warp.
14 int. enterprise-b- bridge 14
a few minutes later. demora is watching her console.
demora
we're within visual range of the energy distortion, captain.
harriman
on screen.
15 include viewscreen (vfx-i) 15
which now shows a huge ribbon of crackling energy directly ahead of the
enterprise-b. everyone reacts to the bizarre sight.
chekov
what the hell is that?
demora
(off console)
i've found the transport ships.
15a include viewscreen (vfx-i) 15a
the viewscreen now shows two transport ships trapped like insects in the
violent torrent of energy. the ships are being buffeted and thrown about
by large tendrils of crackling energy.
demora
(cont'd)
their hulls are starting to buckle under the stress- they won't survive
much longer.
the ship suddenly shakes. the navigator works his console.
navigator
we're encountering severe gravimetric distortions from the energy
ribbon.
harriman
we'll have to keep our distance. we don't want to get pulled in, too.
harriman frowns at the screen, trying to figure out what to do. kirk can
barely contain himself- to him the answer is obvious. he blurts out the
answer.
kirk
tractor beam...
scotty quickly elbows him in the side- this isn't kirk's ship. kirk
shuts up. harriman glances at kirk.
harriman
we don't have a tractor beam.
kirk
you left spacedock without a tractor beam?
harriman
it won't be installed until tuesday. (beat) ensign sulu, try generating
a subspace field around the ships. that might break them free.
demora
aye, sir.
when kirk hears this order, he shakes his head slightly and mouths the
word 'no' under his breath. he knows that won't work.
demora
(shakes her head)
there's too much quantum interference, captain.
harriman frowns again, trying to come up with another solution, but it
isn't easy- it's his first day in command; his ship is under-manned and
ill-prepared. it's a nightmare come true. kirk is itching to get in on
this, his fingers digging into the arms of his chair- but he restrains
himself.
harriman
what about=8a venting plasma from the warp nacelles? that might disrupt
theribbon's hold on the ships.
navigator
aye, sir. releasing drive plasma.
a tense beat. harriman glances over at the journalists, then glances
over at kirk. kirk goves him a pained smile, trying to be encouraging
even though he knows this is not the right course of action.
navigator
it's not having any effect, sir. i think-
demora
sir! the starboard vessel's hull is collapsing.
15b include viewscreen (vfx-i) 15b
suddenly the right-hand ship on the screen is engulfed by a fiery
tendril of energy and it explodes. the other ship continues to be thrown
about and buffeted. everyone reacts with shock on the bridge.
>>> chekov
how many people were aboard that ship?
demora
two hundred sixty-five.
>>> harriman pales at the sight, seems shell-shocked by the struction
of the ship. he's overwhelmed now; at a genuine loss as to what to do
next.
demora
(urgent)
the lakul's hull integrity is down to twelve percent, sir.
harriman looks over at kirk, who has remained quiet during this entire
sequence only through great effort and out of deference to the young
captain. this is a delicate moment- harriman doesn't want to look
incapable, but at the same time, he needs help.
harriman
captain kirk, i would appreciate any suggestions you might have.
kirk is out of his chair like a cork out of a bottle. he moves down to
stand next to harriman.
kirk
(sotto)
first, move us within transporter range and beam those people to the
enterprise.
harriman looks at him with surprise.
harriman
what about the gravimetric distortions? they'll tear us apart.
kirk
(gently)
risk is part of the game if you want to sit in that chair.
kirk gives him a supportive look. harriman buckles down and grimly looks
at the image on the screen.
harriman
helm, close to within transporter range.
kirk glances at the cameraman, who's still shining the light on them
all.
kirk
and second, turn that damned thing off.
the cameraman turns off the light.
cut to:
16 ext. space- enterprise-b (vfx-i) 16
the ship edges in yet closer to the crackling ribbon. the tendrils from
the ribbon lash out at the ship, just missing it.
17 int. enterprise-b- bridge 17
as before.
demora
we're within range, sir.
harriman
(to lieutenant)
beam them directly to sickbay.
chekov
(concerned)
how big's your medical staff?
harriman
(embarrassed)
the medical staff doesn't arrive until tuesday.
chekov turns to the two journalists.
chekov
you and you. you've just become nurses. let's go.
chekov and the journalists exit to the turbolift.
demora
main engineering reports fluctuations in the warp plasma relays.
scotty
bypass the relays and go to auxiliary systems.
the lieutenant is having problems at the aft console.
lieutenant
sir, i'm having trouble locking onto them. they appear to be in some
sort of temporal flux.
kirk turns to scotty.
kirk
scotty?
scotty quickly moves to look at the transporter console.
scotty
what the hell...
kirk moves to him.
scotty
their life signs are are phasing in and out of our space-time continuum.
kirk
phasing? to where?
scotty begins to work.
navigator
sir! their hull's collapsing!
18 ext. space- the lakul (vfx-i) 18
the ship is destroyed by an energy tendril.
19 int. enterprise-b- bridge 19
all eyes on scotty.
scotty
i got forty-seven of them (beat, grim) out of one hundred fifty.
suddenly the ship is rocked violently. klaxons and alarms start to wail
and the lights flicker on and off. a bulkhead explodes, sending metal
fragments screaming across the bridge and killing the navigator. scotty
quickly takes over the dead man's console.
kirk
report!
demora
we're caught in a gravimetric field emanating from the trailing edge of
the ribbon.
harriman
all engines, full reverse!
20 ext. space- enterprise-b & ribbon (vfx-i) 20
the ship is turning sideways into the wake of the ribbon, but cannot
break away. it is clearly being pulled along, out of control. tendrils
leap up from the ribbon, lashing against the ship.
the room is filled with the survivors of the lakul. they are all members
ofthe el-aurian race- humanoid and dressed in distinctive clothing. the
survivors are in various states of shock. many sit on the floor, staring
into middle distance. some lie on tables, unconscious. others are
mumbling incoherently to themselves. chekov and the journalists are
moving from person to person trying to get control of the situation as
the ship is rocked and flung about. chekov has a tricorder.
survivors
(incoherent, overlapping)
the colors are touching me. i'm caught in the glass. help me...i can see
the seconds...over here...
chekov
it will be all right. we're going to take care of you.
he looks at the tricorder.
chekov
(off tricorder)
only minor injuries so far. (beat) but it looks like they're all
suffering from some kind of neural shock.
one journalist moves past a man sitting on a biobed with a dazed look on
his face. he has a nasty looking wound on one side of his face. (we will
learn later that this man is named doctor soran.)
the journalist is about to turn away when suddenly soran grabs him
roughly- clearly a man of great strength- and pulls him close. soran's
eyes are suddenly wild, crazed.
soran
why, why?
journalist
it's all right. you're safe=8a you're on the enterprise.
soran
no, i have to go... i have to get back. you don't understand! let me go!
soran begins to attack the journalist, but before he can do any real
damage, chekov injects soran with a hypospray and soran falls
unconscious.
journalist
what was he talking about?
suddenly a woman with her back toward us stumbles nearby. chekov quickly
grabs her arm and catches her before she falls.
chekov
easy there...
the woman turns around and we see her face for the first time- it's
guinan. she seems dazed and confused. chekov smiles at her warmly.
chekov
it's going to be okay. here, just lie down.
as he guides guinan onto a table
22 int. enterprise-b- bridge (vfx-i) 22
energy ribbon on viewscreen.
demora
inertial dampers failing.
scotty
engines not responding!
harriman is gripping the arms of his chair with one hand. his face
pales.
harriman
(quiet)
i didn't expect to die my first day on the job.
kirk tries to buck up the young captain.
kirk
(sotto)
the first thing you learn as captain is how to cheat death. (beat, then
louder) scotty?
scotty
(outraged)
there's just no way to disrupt a gravimetric field of this magnitude!
demora
hull integrity failing.
kirk looks at scotty expectantly for a moment.
scotty
(cont'd)
but i do have a theory...
kirk
i thought you might.
scotty
an anti-matter discharge directly ahead=8a it might disrupt the field
long enough for us to break away.
kirk
a photon torpedo?
scotty
aye.
kirk
(quickly, to demora)
load torpedo bays, prepare to fire on my command.
demora turns to him.
demora
captain, we don't have any torpedoes.
kirk glances at harriman.
kirk
don't tell me...tuesday.
harriman nods, a little embarrassed. the shaking gets worse.
scotty
captain, it may be possible to simulate a torpedo blast using a
resonance burst from the main deflector dish.
kirk
(onto the idea)
where are the deflector relays?
demora
harriman
(to kirk)
i'll go. you have the bridge.
harriman heads for the turbolift, and there is a moment as kirk is
sorely tempted to take command of the ship and sit in the captain's
chair one more time. but he pulls himself back before harriman can exit.
kirk
no=8a a captain's place is on the bridge of his ship. (beat) i'll take
care of it.
harriman nods in acknowledgement. kirk heads for the turbolift.
kirk
(on the move, to scotty)
keep her together until i get back.
scotty
(matter of fact)
i always do.
kirk smiles as the turbolift doors slide shut.
23 omitted 23
24 int. enterprise-b- corridor 24
kirk running down the corridor, opens a door.
25 int. enterprise-b- deflector room (continuous) 25
a small control room with a few consoles. kirk rushes in and rips off
one of the large wall panels. he quickly begins to re-route cabling and
circuitry.
26 int. enterprise-b- bridge 26
as before. the ship is shaking badly.
demora
forty-five seconds to structural collapse!
scotty is working the consoles frantically.
scotty
bridge to captain kirk.
intercut:
27 int. enterprise-b- deflector room 27
kirk working furiously.
kirk
kirk here.
scotty
captain, i don't know how much longer i can hold her together!
kirk finishes working and slams the wall panel closed.
kirk
that's it. go!
28 int. enterprise-b- bridge 28
as before.
harriman
(to demora)
activate main deflector.
demora works the console.
29 ext. space- enterprise-b (vfx-i) 29
a large burst of energy leaps out of the main deflector dish and
explodes in front of the ship. there is an immediate reaction within the
energy ribbon, which roils and fluctuates in response.
30 int. enterprise-b- bridge 30
as before.
scotty
we're breaking free.
31 ext. space- enterprise-b (vfx-i) 31
the ship now begins to turn away from the crackling ribbon. but just as
it's turning, one final tendril of energy suddenly leaps out and hits
the ship.
32 omitted 32
33 int. enterprise-b- bridge 33
the ship is rocked so hard that everyone is knocked off their feet.
gradually, the shaking stops. demora scrambles back into position.
demora
we're clear.
everyone reacts with relief.
harriman
(excited, to com)
you did it, kirk! (to demora) damage report, ensign.
demora
(off console)
there's some buckling on the starboard nacelle. (reacts) we've also got
a hull breach in the engineering section. emergency forcefields are in
place and holding.
scotty
where?
demora
sections 20 through 28 on decks 13, 14...(looks at scotty with meaning)
and 15.
everyone turns around and looks at scotty.
scotty
(to com)
bridge to captain kirk. (beat) captain kirk, please respond.
still no response. scotty's face falls.
scotty
(continuing, to demora)
have chekov meet me on deck 15.
harriman, very concerned, gets up and follows scotty. they exit to the
turbolift.
cut to:
34 int. enterprise-b- corridor 34
scotty and harriman head down the corridor. they round a bend, and then
stop short. they react to something ahead of them.
35 new angle (vfx-p) 35
revealing that the corridor ahead of them is gone. a jagged hole has
been ripped in the ship and open space can be seen beyond the twisted
metal. a forcefield flickers on and off, holding the vacuum of space at
bay.
scotty and harriman look at the awesome sight for a moment. chekov comes
running up the corridor behind them. he stops and reacts.
chekov
my god...(beat) was anyone in there?
a long silent beat as scotty looks out into space.
scotty
aye.
36 ext. space- enterprise-b (vfx-i) 36
a huge chunk has been ripped out of the engineering section, looking
like an open wound. scotty, chekov and harriman can be seen standing
inside the small corridor, looking out into space.
37 int. enterprise-b- bridge 37
a short time later. scotty, harriman and chekov are listening to demora,
who is working the helm console.
demora
i've checked the entire ship and the surrounding space, there's no sign
of him.
a silent moment. chekov looks to scotty, hoping to hear some sort of
miracle. scotty takes a moment, looks at the empty command chair. then
he shakes his head. a long beat as everyone is forced to accept this
terrible truth.
scotty
(quiet)
just a quick run around the block.
chekov
i never thought it would end like this.
scotty
all things must end, mr. chekov.
harriman finally breaks the stillness of the bridge.
harriman
let's go home.
harriman steps down to the captain's chair and takes command of his
ship.
scotty and chekov exchange a final look. off the reactions of these two
friends who have just lost someone very dear to them both.
cut to:
38 ext. space- enterprise-b (vfx-i) 38
the crippled ship turns and heads away=
fade to black
super: seventy-eight years later=8a
39 close on a halyard 39
as a flag is quickly hoisted to the top of a mast. the flag reaches the
top and is then caught by the wind- the blue and white banner of the
united federation of planets waves in the breeze.
move to reveal the location
40 ext. sailing vessel- day 40
a nineteenth-century three-masted sailing vessel (about the size of a
frigate) is hove-to and sitting in the water gently rocking. across the
stern of the ship, we can see the name enterprise picked out in gold
letters.
41 on the main deck 41
where picard and riker are standing before the assembled crew of the
ship. everyone is dressed in full-dress naval uniforms of the period,
complete with cocked hats, epaulettes, etc. the crew is standing at
attention, the wind whistles through the rigging, the timbers creak.
picard grimly looks over his crew, then nods to riker.
riker
bring out the prisoner!
a drummer begins a long drum roll.
42 on a hatch 42
as worf is brought on deck by troi and la forge. worf is shackled by
hand and leg irons. troi and la forge hold him by either arm and shove
him toward thecaptain. the drum roll stops. picard moves to worf and
peers at him closely.
picard
mr. worf. i always knew this day would come. are you prepared to face
the charges?
worf doesn't answer and troi jabs him in the side.
troi
answer him!
worf
i am prepared.
picard looks to riker, who then pulls out a large, rolled piece of
parchment. he opens the scroll and begins to read from it. in the b.g.,
la forge removes worf's shackles.
riker
'we, the officers and crew of the u.s.s. enterprise, being of sound mind
and judgment, hereby make the following charges against lieutenant worf:
one. that he did knowingly and willfully perform above and beyond the
call of duty on countless occasions. two. that he has been a good and
solid officer on this ship for one score less twelve years. and three.
most seriously that he has earned the respect and admiration of the
entire crew.'
riker puts away the scroll
picard
there can be only one punishment for such crimes. (beat) i hereby
promote you to the rank of lieutenant commander, with all the rights and
privilegesthereto. and may god have mercy on your soul.
everyone roars in approval. picard smiles at worf and shakes his hand.
picard
(cont'd)
congratulations, commander.
worf
(smiles)
thank you, sir.
picard continues to smile at him for a moment, then riker steps in.
riker
extend the plank!!
worf's face registers surprise as everyone grabs him and hauls him
toward the side, where a long plank is being pushed out over the water.
crewmembers
into the sea with him. feed him to the sharks! walk the plank!
picard gives riker a questioning look.
picard
don't you think you're taking this a little too far, number one?
riker
when we went to ancient rome for deanna's promotion, we threw her to the
lions, remember?
picard shrugs it off- it's not exactly his cup of tea, but he'll go
along with it.
worf is hustled to the rail where crusher is waiting patiently by the
plank, holding a long pike. worf is put on the plank and crusher prods
him with the pike until worf is nearly at the end.
worf finally stops and turns around
worf
(a shout)
wait!
everyone falls silent a moment. worf looks over the side at the water
below.
worf
(a little embarrassed)
i can't swim.
la forge
(calmly, to worf)
the holodeck safety program is engaged. the computer won't let you
drown.
crusher
but the sharks are quite convincing.
crusher prods him with the pike and worf falls into the sea with a huge
splash. everyone laughs and cheers. reveal data, who is standing near
the side rail, looking a little confused at the reaction.
data
(to crusher)
doctor, i must confess i am uncertain as to why pushing someone into
freezing, shark-infested water is amusing.
crusher
it's all done in good fun, data. get in the spirit of things.
data
ah.
data thinks a moment, then he lifts crusher with one hand and hold her
over the rail.
crusher
data...data-!
data lets go and crusher plummets into the ocean. data looks around- no
one is laughing. they all look a little surprised.
la forge
data=8a that wasn't funny.
data is puzzled by the reaction of the crowd. he's more confused than
ever.
43 picard and riker 43
are standing on the quarterdeck as a very wet beverly crusher comes up
on deck.
picard
well, now that we're all aboard=8a (beat, then smiles) number one, bring
the ship before the wind. (savoring the moment) let's see what's out
there.
riker
aye, aye, sir. (to troi) take the wheel, commander.
troi takes the ship's wheel.
riker
(shouts)
all hands make sail! raise up tacks and stand by the braces!
the crew springs into action, rushing to their places aloft and on
deck,grabbing ropes and lines, starting to unfurl the sails, trimming
the yardarms, getting the ship ready to sail.
44 44
thru omitted thru
45 45
46 picard and riker 46
picard is drinking in the scene with a look of great satisfaction and
contentment.
picard
imagine what it was like, will. no engines, no computers, just the wind,
the sea and the stars to guide you.
riker
bad food, brutal discipline. (beat) no women.
but picard won't let riker rain on his parade- he's thoroughly enjoying
himself.
com voice
bridge to captain picard.
picard
picard here.
com voice
there is a personal message for you from earth.
picard
(annoyed)
put it through down here. (to riker) but the best thing about a life at
sea was that they couldn't get to you.
picard walks toward the bow.
picard
(to com)
computer, arch.
46a angle (vfx-p) 46a
a u-shaped arch with several computer panels visible appears on the
forecastle. it's a strange sight to see a piece of the 24th century on
the deck of this ship. picard goes to the arch and activates one of the
monitors and waits for the transmission to appear.
46b new angle (vfx-p) 46b
a text message appears and he starts to read it. after a moment, he
reacts with shock and dismay to something on the screen.
47 on troi 47
whose attention has been drawn to picard, at the arch. she reacts with
concern at the expression on his face.
troi
(to crewmember)
here. take the wheel.
troi moves toward the bow.
48 on picard (vfx-p) 48
whose face is now ashen with shock. clearly he has just read something
on the screen which is very disturbing. he stares into the middle
distance for a moment. troi moves to him.
troi
(quiet)
captain, are you all right?
picard
yes. fine. if you'll excuse me.
he turns off the screen.
picard
computer, exit.
48a angle (vfx-p) 48a
the holodeck doors appear within the arch. picard is clearly distracted
as he exits to the corridor. troi looks after him with concern.
49 new angle 49
favoring riker. he takes a couple of steps toward worf.
riker
set the royals and the studding sails, mr. worf.
worf looks at him blankly for a moment.
worf
the royal...studs?
riker
(smiles, points aloft)
you see the top yardarm, now look to the-
suddenly a com voice interrupts.
com voice
bridge to commander riker.
riker
riker here.
com voice
we're picking up a distress call from the amargosa observatory, sir they
say they're under attack.
riker
(to all)
red alert! all hands to battle stations! captain picard to the bridge.
everyone on the ship reacts, and there is a general rush to the bow of
the ship.
cut to:
50 ext. space- enterprise-d (vfx-i) 50
the great ship at impulse. we follow it and then see ahead of the ship,
a small solar observatory with a complex optical array. the observatory
bears scorch marks and other signs of recent battle. (in the b.g., a
yellow sun can be seen.)
51 int. bridge (vfx-i) 51
picard in command. riker, troi, worf and data at their stations they
didn't have time to change, so they are all still dressed in their
costumes from the ceremony. the ship is at red alert. the image of the
burnt-out observatory is on the viewscreen.
riker
it looks like we're too late.
worf
(off console)
there are no other ships in the system.
data
sensors show five life signs aboard the station, captain.
riker
the station complement was nineteen.
a grim beat. picard gets up and starts heading for the ready room- his
attitude is dismissive, almost irritated that this has interrupted some
deeper concern of his.
picard
secure from red alert. number one, begin an investigation. i'll be in my
ready room.
troi and riker exchange a surprised look.
riker
sir?
picard
(hard)
make it so.
picard exits. an awkward beat. what's wrong with the captain? but they
have their orders. as riker and worf head for the exit,
cut to:
52 int. observatory- ops center (vfx-p) 52
the station is a smoking ruin- consoles flickering, lights dim, damage
everywhere. only a few minutes have passed since they were attacked.
riker, worf, crusher and two security guards materialize. they're all
back in uniform, holding phasers and palm beacons. worf has a tricorder
and crusher has a medical kit. the room is cramped, there are fallen
bulk-heads and blown- out consoles. the debris makes it difficult to get
a clear view of the room.
worf
these blast patterns are consistent with type iii disruptors.
riker
well, that narrows it to klingon, breen or romulan.
crusher follows her tricorder readings.
crusher
i'm picking up lifesigns...about twenty meters ahead.
worf
that rules out klingons.
riker gives him a look.
worf
they would not have left anyone alive.
crusher
over here.
they pick their way carefully through the carnage of the station and
come to the body of a starfleet science officer. he has taken a
disruptor blast to the back and there is a nasty-looking scorch mark on
his uniform. crusher immediately takes some devices out of her medical
kit and begins to treat him.
riker
worf, you're with me. paskall, you and mendez search the upper deck.
the security guards climb a nearby ladder while riker and worf head
down a dimly-lit corridor. riker stops at two bodies in the hall, checks
them over- but they're dead. there is a sudden banging from the far
corner of the room. worf and riker quickly move to a collapsed bulkhead.
worf
under here.
they both grab hold of a large metal plate, pull it aside and begin to
dig through the debris. finally, a hand can be seen grasping about from
within the pile of rubble. riker and worf work faster. worf grabs the
man's hand.
worf
it's all right. do not struggle.
worf holds the man's hand as riker shoves away a final console. we
reveal the head and torso of doctor soran, one of the survivors from the
lakul (and last seen in sickbay aboard the enterprise-b). soran has not
aged at all over the years but he does have a permanent scar on his face
from the earlier wound. he blinks a few times, seems a little dazed.
riker
i'm commander william riker of the starship enterprise.
soran
soran, doctor tolian soran.
soran puts a hand to his head, still trying to get his bearings.
riker
who attacked you, doctor?
soran
i'm not sure, it happened so fast.
security officer
(calls out)
commander- you'd better take a look at this.
riker and worf move to the ladder as crusher begins to scan soran.
53 new angle- upper deck 53
riker and worf move over to the two security guards who are kneeling
over a dead body which is obscured from view. one guard turns over the
body, revealing a romulan soldier. worf looks at him in disgust.
worf
romulan.
riker and worf exchange a look. off their reactions
cut to:
54 int. data's quarters 54
data is sitting in a chair, petting spot the cat. la forge is standing
next to him.
data
is she still angry?
la forge
no, but i'd stay out of sickbay for a while if i were you. i still don't
know why you dropped her in the water.
data
i was attempting to get in the spirit of things. i thought it would be
humorous.
data frowns, troubled by this recent experience. he puts spot down and
moves to a bulkhead. he activates a control panel and a small
compartment slides open, revealing a small computer chip which is
suspended in a glass and metal framework. data looks at the chip for a
beat and la forge moves to him in concern.
la forge
data, you're not thinking about using that thing are you?
data
it has occurred to me on several occasions. but i believe this may be
the appropriate time.
la forge
wait a minute. i thought you've always been afraid it would overload
your neural net.
data
that is true. however, i believe my growth as an artificial lifeform has
reached an impasse. for thirty-four years i have endeavored to become
more 'human'- to grow beyond my original programming. and yet i am still
unable to grasp such a simple concept as humor. this emotion chip is the
only answer.
la forge considers a moment, looks at the chip, and reluctantly has to
agree.
la forge
all right.
data sits down and la forge moves to stand behind him.
la forge
but at the first sign of trouble, i'm going to deactivate it. agreed?
data
agreed.
la forge works on data's head for a moment, and the opens a panel on
data's head, revealing the blinking circuitry within.
cut to:
55 int. ready room 55
riker is standing next to picard, who has his back turned and is staring
out the window. picard seems distracted during the scene, his mind
clearly elsewhere as riker finishes his report.
riker
we found two dead romulans aboard the station. we're analyzing their
equipment to see if we can determine what ship they came from.
picard nods absently.
picard
there's still no indication of why they attacked the station?
riker
we think they were looking for something- they practically tore the
place apart.
picard
hmm, (beat) inform starfleet command. this could indicate a new romulan
threat in this sector.
riker
you want me to contact starfleet?
picard
is there a problem?
riker
no, sir.
picard
thank you, number one.
picard keeps his back turned, looking out the window. riker hesitates,
awkward.
riker
there is something else, captain. one of the scientists, a doctor
soran,has insisted on speaking with you. (beat) i told him you were
busy, sir,
but he said it was absolutely imperative that he speak with you right
away.
picard
understood. that will be all.
riker
sir, is there anything wrong?
picard
no. thank you.
a beat, then riker turns and exits. off picard's unreadable face.
cut to:
56 int. ten forward 56
the room is bustling with patrons and activity. data enters with an
oddlook on his face, his body language subtly altered. he is looking at
the world through new eyes. la forge is following him closely, watching
his every move. they move to the bar. guinan comes over- she has not
aged at all since the enterprise-b. she sets down an exotic-looking
container full of dark liquid.
guinan
you two just volunteered to be my first victims. this is a new
concoction i picked up on forcas iii. trust me, you're going to love it.
she pours two glasses of the liquid. data takes one and sniffs it, then
takes a drink. la forge watches him closely. data frowns.
la forge
well?
data
i believe the beverage has provoked an emotional response.
la forge
really? what do you feel?
data
i am uncertain. i have had little experience with emotions. i am unable
to articulate the sensation.
guinan
emotions?
la forge
i'll explain later.
data finishes the drink, concentrates, tries to make sense of the rush
of feelings. his expression is one of disgust.
guinan
(to la forge)
i don't think he likes it.
data
(excited)
yes. that is it. i hate it.
la forge
data, i think the chip is working.
data looks at la forge with a big smile on his face.
data
yes. i hate this! it is revolting!
beat.
guinan
another round?
data
please.
in the b.g., we see picard enter ten forward.
57 follow picard 57
as he walks through ten forward and heads toward a table by the windows.
soran is sitting at the table, staring out at the stars, lost in
thought. his observatory uniform is distinctive, and sets him apart from
everyone else in the room. picard walks up to the table.
picard
doctor soran?
soran
yes, yes, captain. thank you for coming.
the men skake hands and picard sits down. soran is an imposing physical
presence, but at the moment he seems very much the eccentric scientists
consumed with his work. picard waves away a waiter.
picard
nothing for me. (brusque, to soran) i understand there's something
urgent you need to discuss with me.
soran
yes. i need to return to the observatory immediately. i must continue a
critical experiment i was running on the amargosa star.
picard's reaction is a little impatient- this doesn't sound that
imperative to him.
picard
doctor, we're still conducting an investigation into the attack. once
we've completed our work, we'll be happy to allow you and your fellow
scientists back aboard the observatory. until then-
soran
the timing is very important on my experiment- if it is not completed
within the next twelve hours, years of research will be lost.
picard
we're doing the best we can. now if you'll excuse me...
picard moves to stand, but soran reaches out and gently but firmly grabs
him by the arm. the unexpected physical contact and the change of
intensity in soran's face stops picard in his tracks.
soran
(cryptically)
they say time is the fire in which we burn, and right now, captain, my
time is running out. (beat) we leave so many things unfinished in our
lives- i'm sure you can understand.
for some reason, soran's words have struck a deep chord within picard.
he looks away from soran's compelling gaze and thinks for a long moment.
when he finally speaks, his voice is barely above a whisper.
picard
i'll see what i can do.
picard walks away without a word before soran can thank him. soran looks
after him with relief, then pulls out an antique pocket watch and opens
it. he looks at the watch for a long moment, then snaps it closed and
head for the opposite exit from the one picard took. follow soran across
ten forward until he suddenly stops in shock at something he sees.
58 soran's pov 58
of guinan, who is now back at the bar.
59 resume soran 59
a dark look crosses his face- he is disturbed by the sight of guinan. he
quickly turns and exits.
60 on guinan 60
she begins to sense something, as though someone is watching her. she
turns, looks in the direction where soran was just standing, but there's
no one there now. she shakes off the feeling and goes back to work.
cut to:
61 int. engineering 61
a short time later. a romulan tricorder is connected to some diagnostic
equipment near a console. worf is talking to riker.
worf activates a monitor which shows a complex diagram of sensor
information.
worf
one of the dead romulans had a tricorder. we analyzed its sensor logs
and found they were scanning for signature particles of a compound
called trilithium.
riker
trilithium?
worf
an experimental compound the romulans have been working on. in theory, a
trilithium-based explosive would be thousands of times more powerful
than an anti-matter weapon. but they never found a way to stabilize it.
riker
why were they looking for it on a federation observatory? it doesn't
make any sense.
riker considers.
riker
(cont'd)
have geordi and data go over with the next away team. tell them to scan
the observatory for trilithium.
worf
aye, sir.
cut to:
62 int. observatory ops 62
the station is still a wreck. la forge and data are scanning the room
with tricorders.
la forge
(off tricorder)
there's no sign of any trilithium in here.
la forge continues to scan. suddenly data lets out a quiet giggle. la
forge stops and turns to look at him. data giggles louder.
data
(laughing, to himself)
i get it. i get it.
la forge
you get what?
data laughs again.
data
when you said to commander riker (imitating la forge's voice) 'the clown
can stay, but the ferengi in the gorilla suit has to go.'
la forge looks blankly at him for a moment.
la forge
what?
data
during the farpoint mission. we were on the bridge and you told a joke.
that was the punchline.
la forge
the farpoint mission? data, that was seven years ago.
data
i know. i just got it. (laughs) it was very funny.
la forge
thanks.
la forge indicates a corridor. they exit in that direction.
63 int. observatory corridor- continuous 63
a short corridor connecting the ops center with other compartments. la
forge suddenly stops in front of what appears to be a standard bulkhead.
la forge
wait a minute, there's a hidden doorway here. i can see the joint of the
metal with my visor.
la forge runs his finger in a vertical line along what appears to be a
smooth bulkhead.
data
(off tricorder)
there appears to be a dampening field in operation. i cannot scan beyond
the bulkhead.
la forge puts his tricorder away and begins looking for a way to open
the door.
la forge
i don't see a control panel, or an access port.
data
(off tricorder)
it appears to be a magnetically sealed.
data steps forward and opens a small panel on wrist and makes a quick
adjustment to the circuitry within.
data
i believe i can reverse the polarity by attenuating my axial servo.
data completes his adjustment and then moves his wrist over the door
panel.
data
(joking)
'open sesame.'
there is a humming sound followed by a loud click. the door slides open.
data
(smiles)
you could say i have a magnetic personality.
la forge reacts to the bad pun with a grimace. they exit to
64 int. observatory probe room- continuous 64
a small room with several probes stacked in holding racks. la forge and
data scan.
la forge
i'm still not picking up anything. someone went to a lot of trouble to
shield this room.
they put their tricorders away and begin looking around the room. data
continues to snicker and giggle as he tries not to laugh at jokes his
mind conjures up. la forge begins inspecting the probes, finally stops
at one probe which has several odd devices attached to the side.
la forge
data, take a look at this. (data comes over) you ever seen a solar probe
with this kind of configuration?
data uses the tricorder as if it were a puppet as he opens and closes it
like a mouth.
data
(making tricorder 'talk')
no, geordi. i have not. it is most unusual.
data giggles and la forge reacts with the irritation of someone
listening to a very bad comedian.
la forge
just help me get this panel open.
data helps la forge as they try to open a panel on the casing of the
probe. they open the panel and la forge looks inside. he reacts to
something.
la forge
whoa, my visor's picking up something in the theta band. it could be a
trilithium signature.
data suddenly start laughing. la forge turns in irritation.
la forge
data, this isn't the time.
data
(laughing)
i am sorry, but i cannot stop myself. i think something is wrong
64a angle (vfx-p) 64a
data's laughter escalates into hysteria, then data begins to jerk and
shake and goes into a bizarre 'emotional seizure.' a rush of emotions
race across his face: anger, passion, shock. a kaleidoscopic blur of
reactions contort his features. then it stops and he falls to the
ground.
la forge
data!
la forge rushes to him. data has a look of surprise on his face as he
blinks a few times. he sits up.
la forge
data, are you all right?
data
i believe the emotional chip has overloaded my positronic relays.
la forge
we better get you back to the ship (hits combadge) la forge to
enterprise.
there's no response. la forge frowns for a beat, then we hear soran's
voice.
soran
is there a problem, gentlemen?
65 include soran 65
standing in the room. la forge didn't hear him come in.
la forge
oh, doctor. yeah, as a matter of fact, there is. there's a damping=
field in here blocking our com signal. (re: data) will you give me a
hand?
over the above dialogue, soran glances over at the solar probe la forge
was inspecting. he notes the opened panel and a disturbed look crosses
his face. soran looks back at la forge.
soran
i'd be happy to.
soran moves toward them, and then without warning, he punches la forge
in the face, knocking the visor across the room. he whirls around and
points a phaser at data, who suddenly looks fearful.
data
please don't hurt me.
cut to:
66 int. picard's quarters 66
picard is standing at the replicator.
picard
tea. earl grey. hot.
the cup of tea appears in the replicator and at the same moment, the
door chimes.
picard
come.
troi enters. picard would rather not be bothered right now, but he is
polite as always.
picard
counselor. what can i do for you?
troi
actually, i'm here to see if there's anything i can do for you.
picard
well, i appreciate your concern, but i'd rather not discuss it right
now, thank you.
but troi won't be brushed away so easily.
troi
i'm afraid i can't just leave it at that. the commanding officer of this
ship is clearly distraught about something. as ship's counselor, it's my
duty to-
picard
as ship's counselor, it's your duty to know not only when you're needed
but also when you're not.
troi
you can't fool an empath, captain. i know exactly when i'm needed.
picard is really not in the mood for this. his tone hardens.
picard
well, with all due respect to your betazoid senses, i prefer to be alone
right now.
troi
very well. i suppose i could make out my weekly report to starfleet
command without your input. (beat) 'admiral lusby, regarding the unusual
behavior of jean-luc picard: i find him increasingly irritable, remote
and uncooperative. i recommend forced shore leave at a starbase facility
in order to-'
picard
all right, all right. you've made your point.
troi takes a seat and patiently waits. picard gets up, moves around the
room for a moment, and stops. he speaks in a flat, unemotional tone of
voice.
picard
the message i received. (beat) my brother and his son- my nephew- burned
to death in a fire.
troi reacts, genuinely surprised.
troi
captain, im sorry. (beat) i know there were a lot of unresolved
conflicts between you and your brother.
picard
what i can't get out of my mind is the image of rene- my nephew. i just
can't believe he's gone.
he trails off.
troi
it's only natural to feel a heightened sense of tragedy when a child
dies. (sensing more) but it goes deeper than that, doesn't it? i can
sense that rene meant a great deal to you.
picard
in a way, he was as close as i ever came to having a child of my own.
troi eyes an open photo album on the table. she reaches over and flips
through the pages for a moment. there are many photos inside, from many
periods in time, including one of picard's brother standing next to his
young son. this is the picard family album.
troi
your family history is very important to you, isn't it?
picard
(nods)
ever since i was a little boy, i remember hearing about the family line.
the picards that fought at trafalgar, the picards that settled the first
martian colony. when my brother married and had a son...
picard hesitates- this is difficult for him.
troi
you felt it was no longer your responsibility to carry on the family
line.
picard
(nods)
my brother had shouldered that burden, allowing me to pursue my own
selfish needs.
troi
there's nothing selfish about pursuing your own life, your own career.
picard moves to the window, stares outside. a shadow crosses his face.
he's getting to the heart of the matter.
picard
you know, counselor, i'm not getting any younger. for some time now,
i've been aware that there are fewer days ahead than there are behind.
(beat) but i always took comfort in the fact that when i was gone, my
family would continue. but now...
picard moves back to the photo album, open it to the last page, an then
flips through the remaining pages. they are blank.
picard
i've had brushes with death...more than i care to contemplate. i always
accepted it as a calculated risk that goes along with wearing this
uniform. (beat) but now, the idea of death has a terrible sense of
finality to it.
he looks at her.
picard
i'm the last picard.
a quiet beat as troi considers him.
troi
captain, perhaps we-
suddenly, a blinding burst of light from outside the windows washes into
the room. troi and picard rush to the window and shield their eyes
against the glare.
riker's com voice
red alert! all hands to duty stations!
cut to:
67 67
thru omitted thru
68 68
69 int. bridge (vfx-i) 69
picard and troi enter from a turbolift. riker and worf at their
stations. the star is on the viewscreen, getting darker by the second.
more=flaming debris is being ejected into space.
picard
report.
riker
a quantum implosion has occurred within the amargosa star. all
nuclearfusion is breaking down.
picard
how is that possible?
worf
sensor records show a solar probe was launched from the observatory a
few moments ago.
riker
the star's going to collapse in a matter of minutes.
something beeps on worf's console.
worf
sir, the implosion has produced a level twelve shock wave.
troi
(shocked)
level twelve? that'll destroy everything in this system.
transporter com voice
transporter room to bridge. i can't locate commander la forge or
commander data, sir.
riker
(to worf)
did they return to the ship?
worf
(works)
no, sir. they are not aboard.
picard
how long until the shock wave hits the observatory?
worf
four minutes, forty seconds.
picard looks at riker, who then quickly heads for the turbolift.
riker
mr. worf.
riker and worf exit.
70 ext. space- the star (vfx-i) 70
the star is almost entirely dark. radiating out from the star is a huge
shock wave- a rapidly growing sphere of energy.
71 int. observatory probe room (vfx-p) 71
soran is standing at a console watching a graphic depiction of the
star's collapse on a monitor when the door suddenly opens. soran whirls
around and fires his phaser at riker and worf. they spane for cover just
outside theroom. (note: the probe la forge examined earlier is now
gone.)
riker
(to worf)
what the hell's he doing?
worf dodges another phaser blast and sees la forge lying unconscious on
the deck. data is nowhere to be seen.
picar
