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Star Trek: The Next Generation
"Spiritus Datum" Writers Guild No. 503774 By Jason Heffel & Rob Gardiner |  | |
TEASER
SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The USS ENTERPRISE is distantly orbiting a MICROSTAR. We see
the microstar's glowing blue distortion field, spherical,
with ten equidistant indentations (vortexes) meeting at the
darkened center. A vessel is closely orbiting the distortion
field.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log: Stardate 46177.4.
The Enterprise's mapping mission of
sector four fourteen has been
delayed by the discovery and
investigation of the universe's
only known microstar. Until now,
microscopic black holes have
existed only in theory.
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
DATA at ops, WORF at tactical, PICARD at center seat making
log entry, RIKER to his right, ENSIGN PHLYNN at con Phlynn is
Data's protégé, as Chekov was to Spock. Various
SUPERNUMERARIES at science I and II.
PICARD
Our sensors have detected a vessel
of unknown origin orbiting the
microstar's distortion field, which
Mr. Worf is currently attempting to
hail...
Picard is interrupted by a moment of silent blinding
whiteness, after which everything returns to normal.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
Computer overload. Initializing
yellow alert.
RIKER
Damage report?
WORF
Life support is stable.
Communications and transporters are
not functioning.
PICARD
What was that, Mr. Data?
DATA
An emission from the microstar left
graviton particles in several of
the ship's systems. Radiation
levels are within safety
parameters.
PICARD
How was the other ship affected?
DATA
Indeterminable. I recommend a
sensor probe for a more thorough
analysis.
PICARD
Agreed.
DATA
(Programs probe)
Launching class four sensor probe.
Now receiving visual.
CUT TO:
ANGLE - INTERCUT AS NEEDED
On main view screen. P.O.V. sensor probe. The distortion
field fills the top half of the screen, while the vessel
gains definition as the LUMINO.
DATA
The probe reads three life signs in
the vessel.
(Operates controls)
The vessel has jettisoned a small
spherical object containing two of
the life signs. I detect no
propulsion system.
PHLYNN
Sir, the sphere's projected course
brings it within fifty meters of
the distortion field.
RIKER
Until we're sure otherwise, we have
to assume this isn't intentional
I suggest we move to within tractor
beam range.
WORF
That may leave us vulnerable to
another graviton emission.
PICARD
(Beat)
Make it so, number one.
RIKER
(To Phlynn)
Heading 199 mark 2.
PHLYNN
Aye, sir.
CUT TO:
SPACE - MICROSTAR AND VICINITY (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise rotates and moves towards the distortion
field.
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE
As before.
DATA
Sensors have locked onto the craft.
The ship shakes suddenly.
PHLYNN
Captain, the Enterprise is
accelerating towards the microstar.
DATA
Readings indicate a flux wave from
the alien vessel is causing our
increase in velocity.
PICARD
Reverse course.
The engines provide an annoying whine. After a beat…
RIKER
(To com)
Engineering, what can you give us?
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Not much more, Commander. Warp and
impulse engines are at maximum.
PICARD
I am open to suggestions.
DATA
(Swivels)
The Enterprise is carrying twenty-
six kilograms of tri-rhenium
compound, which will react with the
distortion field's hector bands and
neutralize the wave's integrity.
RIKER
Mr. Worf, have the torpedo room
stand by.
WORF
Aye, sir.
CUT TO:
SPACE - MICROSTAR AND VICINITY (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise's engines resist the flux wave's pull. A
photon torpedo is fired at the distortion field and explodes
on contact. The Enterprise's engines power down. All three
ships are now motionless.
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE
As before, with atmospheric relief.
PICARD
Ensign, return the Enterprise to
its previous coordinates. Mr. Worf,
I want communications re
established as soon as possible.
(To data)
Well Done, Mr. Data.
PHLYNN
Captain, the sphere is moving back
towards the vessel.
PICARD
What?
CUT TO:
ANGLE (OPTICAL)
P.O.V. Picard. HYUS KYTES, a DON GOTTAN, fills the panel at
Picard's right hand. Don Gottans are arrogant, pragmatic, and
have no prosthetic foreheads. Hyus is an especially arrogant
Don Gottan.
CUT TO:
ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Pan of interior shows Hyus Kytes on every screen, panel and
console. Settle on main view screen.
HYUS
(Infuriated)
I am Hyus Kytes.
CUT TO:
ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)
GEORDI and two supernumeraries are watching Hyus Kytes speak
from every panel in the room.
HYUS
(Continuing)
I am also irritated at your
interruption...
CUT TO:
SICKBAY (OPTICAL)
BEVERLY and a PATIENT see Hyus's face on the medical display.
HYUS
(Continuing)
Of a sensitive and controlled
experiment.
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE
As before.
HYUS
(Continuing)
Await further communication!
The panels all show static. Off their reactions.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
All screens are still static. Data and Geordi have removed
the top of the ops console, Picard is watching. Riker and
Worf at tactical, Phlynn at con, supernumerary at aft
stations.
DATA
The transmission polarized the
optical data network with an
electro-faradic charge.
PICARD
(Concerned)
How long for a repair?
GEORDI
Two hours to bring this panel on
line. From here we can instruct the
ships computer to depolarize the
entire network.
CUT TO:
ANGLE - INTERCUT AS NEEDED
The main view screen shows ZYLUS, a far less aggressive Don
Gottan than Hyus, but no less passionate. The crew turn to
face him.
ZYLUS
I am Zylus Serobus of the planet
Don Gotta. And to what do I speak?
PICARD
I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the
Federation starship Enterprise. We
seem to be having problems with
our…
ZYLUS
Federation ships are notoriously
fragile. We will modify our
transmissions accordingly.
All bridge panels return to their normal displays.
ZYLUS
(Continued)
Contact will be re-established in
point zero, zero, three, two, five
rotations of the Microstar.
The view screen abruptly goes blank. Picard is noticeably
frustrated.
PICARD
Data?
DATA
Approximately nine minutes, sir.
WORF
Interactive panels are now on-line
ship wide.
PICARD
Senior officers to the observation
lounge. Ensign Phlynn, you have the
con.
CUT TO:
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Geordi, Beverly, and TROI are
seated.
RIKER
At that range, wouldn't their ship
have been affected by the graviton
emission?
GEORDI
Not if that flux wave does what I
think it does.
BEVERLY
Apparently the charming Mr. Kytes
was seeing just how close he could
get.
DATA
That appears to be correct, Doctor.
PICARD
(To Troi)
What was your impression of Mr.
Kytes?
TROI
His irritation was genuine.
WORF
As was mine.
After brief static, Hyus, Zylus, and ANTONUS appear on thirds
of the view screen. When one speaks, he occupies the whole
screen. When they're not speaking, we see all three. Antonus
is the most friendly and politically correct of the trio.
ANTONUS
I am Antonus Tabix of Don Gotta.
PICARD
This is the first contact between
the Federation and representatives
of Don Gotta.
HYUS
We conceal our presence because
Federation politics can be an
impediment to progress, as well as
justification for unwanted
interruptions.
RIKER
We only "interrupted" because we
thought lives were in danger.
ANTONUS
Your concern is appreciated, but
neither the Lumino nor its
auxiliary vehicle were ever in any
danger.
PICARD
May we inquire as to the nature of
your experiment?
ZYLUS
We are collecting data to calculate
our course into the microstar and
through the four dimensional
universe beyond.
GEORDI
Entering a black hole is survivable
with a focused flux wave, but
that's at least sixty years down
the road.
ZYLUS
We developed advanced flux wave
technology generations ago.
PICARD
Perhaps you would be interested in
a mutually beneficial exchange of
technology.
HYUS
Unfortunately, an exchange of this
nature wouldn't benefit us as
mutually as it would you.
ANTONUS
(Arguing with Hyus)
However, there are some among us
who recognize the Federation as
potential collaborators. For your
analysis, we will send a brief
summary of our work and a
holographic representation of our
laboratory, which we can access
through our communication signal.
PICARD
Your generosity is appreciated. We
would be happy to assist you in any
way possible.
Hyus is not impressed.
ZYLUS
Very well then. Await further
communication.
Hyus, Zylus and Antonus disappear as the view screen displays
a high-speed sequence of equations and technical information.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
Program stored.
Picard breaks the crew's momentary silence.
PICARD
Experience shows that when a
society is exposed to advancements
prematurely, it faces more
responsibility than it can
maintain. This is the basis for our
own Prime Directive.
RIKER
Only this time, we're the
"premature" society.
PICARD
Yes, and many times we've seen the
potential dangers of exposure to
too much, too quickly.
BEVERLY
The question is, will we have the
wisdom to refuse what we're not
ready for?
CUT TO:
SPACE - MICROSTAR AND VICINITY (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise is holding position. Time passes.
CUT TO:
CORRIDOR
Data and Phlynn are outside the HOLODECK.
DATA
Computer, run program 'Don Gottan
laboratory, simulation of
Microstar's formation'.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
Program complete. You may enter
when ready.
The Holodeck doors open to reveal a reproduction of the Don
Gottans' laboratory. Data and Phlynn enter.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTAN LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
PHLYNN
(Picks up small object)
Charming contraption, data. What is
it?
DATA
That is an Existentialation
Deprivation Device.
PHLYNN
(Improvising)
To alleviate feelings of
insignificance when faced with the
infinite void.
Data offers a brief acknowledgment and then touches a panel.
In the center of the room, a 3-D image of a star pressing
against a flexible grid.
DATA
The star, upon reaching the density
of one point two million suns per
atomic nucleus, punctured a tear in
space-time and re-ignited in a
universe with four spatial
dimensions.
As the star shrinks, and the depression gets deeper. The star
eventually punctures the grid, breaks through to the other
side and grows to its previous size. The grid flattens out,
but a tiny hole remains surrounded by a blue distortion
field.
DATA
(Continued)
Twenty-first century astronomer
Nonnel Bracken theorized the
existence of vortexes in the
distortion field, while Adams
stated that there is one "total
perspective vortex", which acts as
a trans-dimensional passage.
A tiny dot (sphere) makes a downward spiral through a vortex,
slingshots around the re-ignited star and leaves the way it
came.
DATA
(Continued)
The Don Gottans' auxiliary vehicle
will enter the vortex and orbit the
re-ignited star before returning to
this universe.
PHLYNN
Not a simple task, considering our
perception of four dimensions.
DATA
That is subjective.
(Half beat)
I suspect space is volume less,
time is directionless, and thought
is pure.
PHLYNN
(Equally contemplative)
Purity of thought may be beyond our
comprehension.
DATA
An interesting, if not typically
human supposition, Ensign. I have
always maintained that with
sufficient effort, nothing is
beyond comprehension.
PHLYNN
(Slightly sarcastic)
In that case, Data, I envy you for
your limitless ability to reason
and comprehend.
Data misses the point as Antonus' hologram appears.
ANTONUS
Data, I see you've acquainted
yourself with our laboratory.
DATA
I was explaining your project to
Ensign Phlynn.
PHLYNN
Fascinating stuff, but if you'll
excuse me, I need to start those
neutrino dilations.
Data nods and Phlynn exits.
ANTONUS
Have you come to any conclusions
based on the files we sent you?
DATA
I have learned all the necessary
equations of exocentric calculus.
ANTONUS
Very impressive. You've
accomplished in one day what has
taken others lifetimes. In fact,
we'd like to ask you to serve as
our pilot.
DATA
Into the microstar?
ANTONUS
Yes. We believe you are capable of
piloting through four dimensions
and we wish to have you come along,
if your duties allow.
Off data's allegro reaction.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
MICROSTAR AND VICINITY
The Enterprise is orbiting the microstar.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's personal log
supplemental. Lieutenant Commander
Data has requested and been granted
permission to accompany the Don
Gottans with their experiment.
CUT TO:
TEN FORWARD
Pan of room. Various supernumeraries are enjoying themselves.
PICARD V.O.
(Continued)
I find myself in cadence with
Data's excitement, and perhaps a
bit envious.
Data and Geordi are sitting at a table next to the windows.
The Distortion Field is visible ahead.
GEORDI
I had a chance to look at the Don
Gottans' files earlier. The
Lumino's flux wave generator is
incredible.
DATA
It is the primary component of
their technology.
GEORDI
If we had that generator, we would
be resistant to radiation, phasers,
we could even hold off the Borg.
(Beat)
I just hope they share this with us
before the Romulans.
DATA
They have no intention of sharing
their technology with anyone.
GEORDI
Except you, Data.
DATA
Perhaps I was selected because I do
not have the same limitations as
humans.
GEORDI
What are you expecting to find
that's... beyond humanity?
DATA
I am not sure, Geordi. Perhaps I
will discover the nature of Grand
Reality, which humans would most
likely find overwhelming.
GEORDI
(Impressed)
Would you share those findings with
us?
DATA
I will have to use my own
discretion.
PHLYNN'S COM VOICE
Ensign Phlynn to Commander Data.
DATA
Go ahead, Ensign.
PHLYNN'S COM VOICE
The results of the star's neutrino
dilations are ready for your
review, sir.
DATA
I'm on my way.
Data gets up and exits.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTAN'S LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
Holograms of Hyus, Zylus and Antonus are using the advanced
Don Gottan computational equipment.
ANTONUS
It is imperative that these beings
retain no record of our materials.
HYUS
(Patronizing)
Now, Antonus, haven't we taken the
necessary precautions for that
already?
ANTONUS
Precautions that only apply if our
mission is successful. We must
acknowledge the possibility of our
failure.
ZYLUS
What are you implying, Antonus?
ANTONUS
That there may be circumstances we
have failed to consider.
HYUS
What circumstances, you weed?
ANTONUS
We came here, confined and
confused, and have learned to
adapt.
HYUS
So what is the problem?
ANTONUS
The problem is that I am the only
one who acknowledges the risk.
HYUS KYTES
(Furious)
I ask you again, what risk?!?
ANTONUS
We may have assimilated to this
place too completely... Too
permanently.
ZYLUS
(Calmingly)
Projections show no difficulties of
any kind, and now that the android
has chosen to accompany us...
ANTONUS
Yes, but what if...
Hyus disappears, like a frustrated hologram.
ZYLUS
(Quietly)
We will succeed, Antonus, but in
the meantime, try showing more
optimism. Now if you'll excuse me,
I am required elsewhere.
Zylus disappears.
CUT TO:
ENTERPRISE SCIENCE LAB
Data, Phlynn, and several Supernumeraries are at work.
DATA
Ensign Phlynn, what is the
microstar's current rotation
vector?
PHLYNN
Holding at natural logarithmic
patterns.
After a brief burst of static, Zylus appears on all the
screens.
ZYLUS
Data, I wish to speak with you
alone.
DATA
If you desire privacy, perhaps the
research room can better
accommodate.
ZYLUS
Yes, of course.
Zylus disappears and the screens turn to normal. Data exits
to the research room, a small room adjacent to the science
lab.
CUT TO:
RESEARCH ROOM
Zylus is already on the consoles as data enters.
ZYLUS
What are you doing?
DATA
I am currently following up on a
neutrino parameter survey of the
microstar.
ZYLUS
If this mission is to be
successful, it must be your first
priority.
DATA
I am capable of coordinating
several priorities simultaneously.
ZYLUS
(Change of tone)
I know, Data. We've been monitoring
your progress and have come to
recognize that you have much to
provide us beyond the completion of
this simple mission. We would like
you to join us permanently.
Data is unsure how to respond.
CUT TO:
ENTERPRISE SCIENCE LAB
As before. Data enters from the research room and approaches
Phlynn.
DATA
Ensign, you have a class B science
rating.
PHLYNN
You gave me that designation,
remember?
DATA
I appoint you head of the Stellar
Physics Department for the duration
of this mission.
PHLYNN
Data, this is a crucial point in
the experiment. We're going to need
you to analyze these factorial
variables.
DATA
I will expect to be updated on your
progress.
Data exits in a hurry. The supernumeraries look at Phlynn
expectantly. Off his reaction.
CUT TO:
SPACE - MICROSTAR AND VICINITY (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise is holding position as before. More time
passes.
CUT TO:
TROI'S OFFICE
Troi and Ensign Phlynn are seated.
PHLYNN
I've known Data to be a little
impulsive, but this sudden change
of interest seems odd.
TROI
How has his behavior been unusual?
PHLYNN
He's so preoccupied with the Don
Gottans, he left me in charge of
the lab.
TROI
You seem to be handling the
situation just fine.
PHLYNN
I didn't come here for counseling.
I just thought you could talk to
him before someone files a formal
complaint.
TROI
Thank you, Ensign. You did the
right thing.
Phlynn stands up and exits.
TROI
Computer, locate Mr. Data.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
Lieutenant Commander Data is in
Holodeck four.
Troi is not necessarily happy about this and exits.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTANS' LAB (OPTICAL)
Data is working. Troi enters quickly and approaches.
TROI
Mr. Data, have you been fulfilling
your obligations to the
Enterprise's science departments?
DATA
I am utilizing my time to its best
possible advantage.
TROI
Yes, but that doesn't mean...
Data walks to the other side of the room. She follows.
TROI
That doesn't mean you can ignore
your responsibilities here.
DATA
Counselor, are you suggesting I be
less productive?
TROI
No. Quite the opposite.
DATA
Excuse me, but I cannot afford to
spend time on idle conversation.
(To computer)
Computer, save program.
Data exits leaving a confused Troi in a room full of yellow
grid.
CUT TO:
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard is seated, reading a pad. The door chimes.
PICARD
Come.
Troi enters and sits down.
PICARD
(Excited)
Hello, Counselor. I was just
reading the report on Data's
upcoming mission.
TROI
That what I'm here to talk to you
about, Captain. Data hasn't been
himself recently.
PICARD
(Leans forward)
What do you mean?
TROI
His interest in this experiment
seems to be consuming his every
thought. My opinion is that he's
displaying classic symptoms of
obsession.
PICARD
Are you sure his curiosity isn't
healthy considering the scope of
this experiment?
TROI
Captain, this morning I received a
visit from one of his officers. He
says Data has appointed him head of
the scientific survey team.
PICARD
Yes, I know. Data reports that the
ensign is handling his new
responsibilities well.
TROI
That's not the issue. I've never
known Data to divert his full
attention to one project.
PICARD
I see no harm in allowing Data a
few days of preparation before an
undertaking of this magnitude. I
suggest we give him our
encouragement whenever possible.
(Noticing her
dissatisfaction)
But perhaps I should speak to him
nonetheless.
Off Trio's approving expression.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
CORRIDOR
Data is walking towards the TURBOLIFT. The doors open to
reveal Worf, on his way to the Bridge. Data enters.
DATA
(To computer)
Main bridge.
(Beat)
Mr. Worf, does being the only
Klingon in Starfleet ever make you
feel... alone?
WORF
Although I value my Klingon
heritage, my place is here, among
friends.
DATA
Then you do not anticipate leaving
Starfleet.
WORF
No. I wish to one day earn the
command of a Federation starship.
DATA
I have always been content to live
among humans. Now, I am unsure of
my own... ambitions.
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE
Riker at center seat, supernumeraries at ops and con. Data
and Worf enter from turbolift.
WORF
I have never been content to simply
live with humans. I find commanding
them much more appealing.
Riker reacts to this momentarily. Worf takes position. Data
walks to the ready room door.
RIKER
(To com)
Geordi, have you finished the level
one diagnostic on the
communications?
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Nothing unusual turned up,
Commander. I'm going to look for
power drains from adjacent systems.
I'd like to get Worf to take a look
at this when he's available.
RIKER
I'll send him down shortly.
Data touches the ready room "doorbell" panel.
CUT TO:
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard is gazing out the window at the microstar. The door
chimes.
PICARD
Come.
Data enters.
DATA
Hello, Captain. You wished to see
me?
PICARD
Yes. Please sit down.
Data sits down. Picard is still gazing at the microstar.
PICARD
This phenomenon takes all we've
learned of the universe and turns
it upside down.
(Looks at data)
Are you prepared to deal with that,
Mr. Data?
DATA
I have considered the experience
may be beyond my reasoning
capabilities.
Picard sits down.
PICARD
(Wisdom mode)
Data, recognizing the limits of
one's ability to reason is an
important step for each individual.
You may find a sense of fulfillment
by simply accepting the experience
as it happens. The fact that you
are troubled by this may indicate
that you are not at peace with your
own... spirituality.
DATA
I have never thought of myself a
spiritual being.
(Beat)
Perhaps that is why the Don Gottans
have asked me to join them
permanently.
PICARD
(Surprised)
Permanently? I see... And what do
you think best suits your
interests?
DATA
I am not sure.
PICARD
I have always thought it possible
for you to one day outgrow
Starfleet. Perhaps it's time for
you to redefine your priorities.
Off data's thoughtful.
CUT TO:
JEFFRIES TUBE
Geordi, with TRICORDER, is opening an access panel.
GEORDI
Computer, speculate what could be
trapping the gravitons in the
communication system.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
Gravitons become inert when
subjected to Epsilon radiation.
GEORDI
Scan the Enterprise for Epsilon
radiation leaks.
The computer chirps. Geordi begins scanning the panel.
GEORDI
This is interesting. The graviton
level here is ten times what it was
in the transporter.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
No radiation leaks detected.
GEORDI
I don't understand this.
(To computer)
Is there some kind of interference
from the microstar?
COMPUTER'S VOICE
There are no detectable microstar
emissions capable of rendering
gravitons inert.
GEORDI
How about the Lumino?
COMPUTER'S VOICE
(Chirps)
Negative.
GEORDI
(Frustrated)
Then what's causing these epsilon
waves?
CUT TO:
CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)
Data is on his way to the Holodeck. Zylus follows him on the
little-known seldom-used side panels.
ZYLUS
Data, have you considered our
offer?
DATA
I have given the matter serious
thought, but I am still undecided.
ZYLUS
Exposure to the vortex will provide
you with an exponentially
increasing awareness of your
relationship with the universe.
Once you see this, you will realize
how restricted you are now.
DATA
That remains to be seen.
ZYLUS
Why do you insist on surrounding
yourself with inferior beings when
you know our environment would make
better use of your potential?
Data is outside the Holodeck. Zylus' face is on the Holodeck
panel.
DATA
Excuse me.
ZYLUS
Certainly. I'll meet you inside.
Zylus disappears. Data touches the panel.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
Program Don Gottan laboratory in
progress.
The Holodeck doors open to reveal the laboratory.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTAN LAB - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Data enters and is greeted by holograms of Hyus and Zylus.
HYUS
Zylus tells me you haven't decided.
DATA
I am considering all options.
HYUS
What options are there to consider?
This should be an obvious decision.
DATA
It is not.
HYUS
If you join us, you will be
respected and studied for millennia
to come. Your name will be spoken
in the same breath as Newton,
Einstein, and Cochran. This is your
calling, Data. It cannot be
ignored.
DATA
Nor can my commitment to Starfleet.
HYUS
You think too much of your
commitment to Starfleet.
Hyus rudely walks away. Data follows him.
DATA
The decision to resign can not be
taken lightly.
HYUS
Is it your wish to stay here,
wasting your positronic brain
opening hailing frequencies and
dealing with the emotional demands
they place upon you daily?
DATA
I have always found my experience
with humans to be valuable.
HYUS
We do not ask you to prove your
sentience. We do not treat you like
a naive child.
(To Zylus)
Do you still believe this android
to be worthy?
ZYLUS
Of that I am certain.
HYUS
If this is true, Data, then you
need to decide now.
Off Data's reaction.
CUT TO:
READY ROOM
Data enters with a book.
PICARD
What is your status Mr. Data?
DATA
All preparations are complete.
PICARD
Good. Have you come to a decision
about your future plans.
DATA
The choice was difficult. I have
been in Starfleet comfortably for
twenty years. However, it is time
for me to... move on. My
resignation is effective
immediately.
PICARD
(Sad yet glad)
Your presence will be missed
Commander, but I wish you well on
your new path.
Picard walks over to a shelf for a bottle of family wine and
two glasses, which he had ready.
PICARD
Such an occasion as this deserves a
"bon chance" toast.
Picard begins to uncork the bottle.
DATA
No, Captain, I am expected soon and
must say farewell quickly. Thank
you for the acting lessons...
Picard is surprised at data's detached politeness.
DATA
(Continued)
...and here. I wish to return this
to you...
Data hands his Shakespeare volume back to Picard. Picard
accepts it with an unbelieving look on his face.
DATA
(Continued)
...as a reminder of my former
desire to become human. Goodbye,
Captain Picard.
Data exits. Off Picard's sharp reaction.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
DATA'S QUARTERS
Data, out of uniform, has already emptied his room when the
door chimes.
DATA
Enter.
The door opens and Beverly, Troi, Worf, Riker, and Geordi
enter. Data is surprised to see them all.
BEVERLY
Hello, Data. We came to wish you
goodbye.
DATA
Your timing is appropriate. I will
be leaving at fourteen hundred
hours.
RIKER
I want you to know you'll always
have a place on the Enterprise.
TROI
I hope this is what you want, Data.
I trust you will remember us.
DATA
My memory function is automatic,
Counselor. Therefore, I do not
anticipate forgetting you.
BEVERLY
(Laughingly)
Your insight will be missed, Data,
as well as your charm.
She gives data a hug, which he does not return.
WORF
It has been an honor serving with
you, Commander. I hope our paths
cross again.
DATA
Under the circumstances, that is
highly unlikely.
The crew starts to feel uncomfortable around this coldly
analytical Data.
TROI
(Beat)
Well, we Don't want to take up any
more of your time. Goodbye, Data,
and good luck.
Troi, Worf, Riker and Beverly exit, leaving Data and Geordi.
DATA
Do you wish to say goodbye as well?
GEORDI
There isn't much left to be said. I
just think that maybe you haven't
given this enough thought.
DATA
On the contrary. I welcome the
chance to work with others at my
own level.
GEORDI
Are we slowing you down, Data? Is
that it?
DATA
Your tone indicates a rhetorical
question, and therefore does not
require an answer.
Data turns to the door.
GEORDI
Data, wait.
Data pauses and turns around.
GEORDI
Take care of yourself.
Data nods and exits, leaving Geordi alone in the room.
CUT TO:
ENGINEERING
Phlynn and Worf are working at the pool table. Geordi enters,
still frustrated with Data's parting.
PHLYNN
Commander, I've isolated our
communication failure to the
subspace transceivers.
GEORDI
Go on.
PHLYNN
The graviton emission altered the
transceivers' programming, causing
them to enter a self-repeating
configuration mode. They've been
running the program continuously
ever since.
WORF
So the particles were trapped in
the system.
PHLYNN
Exactly.
GEORDI
We need a way to interrupt the
cycle before we can clear the
gravitons.
PHLYNN
I've been working on that while you
were gone.
Phlynn shows them his work from the other end of the pool
table.
PHLYNN
(Continued)
I've created a virus that can be
transmitted like an internal
communication. The transceivers'
programming will be infected and
their memories erased, one by one.
Then, the gravitons can be removed
and the transceivers reprogrammed
by the main computer.
GEORDI
Ok, but first let's make sure the
virus won't affect the preprocessor
or the optical data network.
PHLYNN
Aye, sir.
Phlynn moves to the side panels, giving Geordi and Worf semi
privacy.
WORF
The Captain reports we will be
underway soon.
GEORDI
(Slightly bitter)
Now that we won't be waiting for
Data.
WORF
Does the Commander's decision
bother you? I am happy that he is
pursuing a higher calling.
GEORDI
I'm happy for him too, Worf, but
what bothers me how easily he's
dismissing everything that used to
be important to him.
WORF
If you were in his place, would you
not be eager to go?
GEORDI
(Frustrating sigh)
I Don't know...
WORF
Perhaps you should seek Troi's
counseling.
PHLYNN
(Interrupts)
The virus checks out, Commander.
There is no danger of it spreading.
GEORDI
(Glances at panel)
Good. Looks like we're ready to
start.
WORF
(To Geordi)
The procedure appears simple.
Ensign Phlynn and I can handle it.
GEORDI
Thanks, Worf.
Off Geordi's exit.
CUT TO:
TROI'S OFFICE
Troi and Geordi are seated across from each other.
GEORDI
I wonder how long this has been
building up inside him. He acts as
if he's been waiting for something
like this.
TROI
Normally my advice to you would be
that you have to accept Data's
decision, but I have trouble
accepting it myself.
GEORDI
Looks like we'll have to. He leaves
in an hour.
(Beat)
I still wonder how they convinced
him to leave everything behind.
TROI
Most of Data's time with the Don
Gottans was spent in the Holodeck.
GEORDI
Maybe he saved the program.
Off Troi's concerned look.
CUT TO:
ENGINEERING
Worf and Phlynn are at opposite ends of the pool table.
WORF
I'm transmitting the virus... now.
PHLYNN
It's spreading to all ten
transceivers. It appears to be
working. The first one has been
erased.
WORF
The gravitons have been removed.
(Beat)
The transceiver is clear.
PHLYNN
Initiating cascading reprogramming
sequence. Everything's going
smoothly, sir.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTANS LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
Data and Antonus' hologram are working when Hyus appears on a
screen.
HYUS
We must proceed with the experiment
now. Erase this program and report
directly to Shuttle Bay two.
Hyus quickly disappears from the screen, confusing Antonus
and Data.
ANTONUS
I'm not sure what this is about,
but go ahead to the Shuttle Bay.
I'll finish up here.
DATA
Very well. I will meet you in the
auxiliary craft.
(To com)
Data to Lieutenant Worf. There has
been a change of schedule. The
experiment will begin immediately.
WORF'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir.
Data exits. Antonus pauses before...
ANTONUS
Computer, save program.
CUT TO:
SPACE - MICROSTAR AND VICINITY (OPTICAL)
The Lumino launches the sphere towards the Enterprise.
CUT TO:
CORRIDOR
Geordi and Troi are outside the Holodeck.
GEORDI
(To computer)
Replay program Don Gottan
laboratory, time index fourteen
point eight.
COMPUTER'S VOICE
Program complete. You may enter
when ready.
The door opens revealing the laboratory with Hyus and Zylus.
Geordi cries out and covers his visor.
TROI
Computer, freeze program.
The computer chirps as the holograms freeze.
GEORDI
The lab is being bombarded with
infrared light.
TROI
Is it part of their experiment?
GEORDI
I don't see how. Data's programming
usually doesn't process infrared
light.
They enter.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTAN LABORATORY - CONTINUOUS
Hyus and Zylus are still standing in place.
GEORDI
Computer, resume with infrared
filtration.
The computer complies as Hyus and Zylus come to life.
HYUS
Zylus tells me you haven't decided.
Off their reaction.
CUT TO:
ENGINEERING
As before.
PHLYNN
Two more transceivers have been
cleared. Reprogramming is
proceeding as expected.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Mr. Worf, we're reading the sphere
on its way to the Enterprise. Do
you know about this?
WORF
Yes. Commander Data informed me of
a scheduling change. I approved it
myself.
PHLYNN
Transceivers eight and three are
now online.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTAN LABORATORY
As before. Camera focuses on Geordi and Troi.
HYUS
...your name will be spoken in the
same breath as Newton, Einstein,
and Cochran. This is your calling,
Data. It cannot be ignored.
TROI
These illusions of grandeur are
undermining Data's judgment.
HYUS
You think too much of Starfleet.
Hyus rudely walks away. Geordi and Troi are shocked by his
comment.
HYUS
Is it your wish to stay here,
wasting your positronic brain
opening hailing frequencies and
dealing with the emotional demands
they place upon you daily?
TROI
They're taking advantage of Data's
perceived lack of emotion.
GEORDI
That's why he's been so detached
lately.
CUT TO:
SHUTTLEBAY (OPTICAL)
Data is opening the bay doors. The sphere is almost inside.
Hyus, Zylus, and Antonus are on the screens behind Data,
frantic with anticipation.
As the sphere enters the Shuttle Bay, the screens turn to
static, followed by another moment of silent blinding
whiteness.
CUT TO:
HOLODECK/DON GOTTAN LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
Troi and Geordi are still watching the replay. Antonus
appears.
ANTONUS
(Angry at Hyus)
We agreed to give the android the
choice to come. Manipulation was
not a part of that agreement.
HYUS
Please Antonus, this is a poor time
to bring up an ethical conflict.
ANTONUS
You condone this... exploitation as
well, Zylus?
ZYLUS
I'm afraid we must seize this
opportunity.
HYUS
Besides, you have said yourself the
longer we wait the greater the
risk.
Before Antonus can answer, Zylus interrupts.
ZYLUS
Antonus, you must understand that
we have no malicious intent. This
is nothing more than an innocent
act of self-preservation.
ANTONUS
I suppose these infrared positronic
subliminals are innocent as well?
Both Troi and Geordi have a physical reaction to this.
TROI
This relentless attack on Data's
ego, his odd behavior...
GEORDI
...and positronic subliminals. It's
all starting to come together.
PHLYNN'S COM VOICE
Commander, communications have been
completely restored, but...
GEORDI
Computer, freeze program. Go ahead,
Ensign.
PHLYNN'S COM VOICE
We picked up a concentration of
gravitons and an epsilon radiation
leak in Shuttle Bay two, just as
the last three transceivers cleared
themselves.
Off of Geordi and Troi's surprised reaction.
CUT TO:
CORRIDOR
Data walks to the sphere, its door opens and he enters.
CUT TO:
SPHERE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
There is a single seat. Data is surprised to find Hyus,
Zylus, and Antonus on different, equally sized view screens.
ZYLUS
Sit down, Data. We're ready to go.
The door closes. Data sits, confused by the lack of three
bodies.
DATA
Are you not accompanying me into
the vortex?
The music takes a sinister twist as Hyus reveals...
HYUS
Yes, but these screens are
necessary for four dimensional
beings to occur in this universe.
DATA
I understand.
CUT TO:
SHUTTLE BAY
As the sphere exits through the bay doors.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FOUR
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Geordi, and Troi are standing by center seat.
Phlynn and Worf at their stations, supernumerary at ops.
GEORDI
That huge graviton emission we
originally encountered was actually
the Don Gottans boarding the
Enterprise. They resided in the
subspace transceivers as epsilon
waves until Ensign Phlynn flushed
them out.
RIKER
While their physical bodies were
aboard the Lumino?
GEORDI
No. They simulated their own life
signs from within the ship's
computer when in fact they have
none.
PICARD
(Annoyed)
I see. And what were they doing on
the Enterprise all this time?
TROI
They were conditioning Data into
going with them, without making
clear their intention of staying in
the fourth dimension.
RIKER
What?
GEORDI
The Holodeck data was using was
bombarded with a light frequency
designed to be ignored by his
visual cortex, but interpreted by
his subconscious.
PICARD
Interpreted how?
TROI
As subliminal messages, strong
enough to cause Data's obsession
with the experiment.
Troi and Picard exchange glances of acknowledgment.
RIKER
So these "subliminals" made him go.
TROI
They didn't make him do anything,
but they did influence his
decision.
PICARD
Hail them, Mr. Worf.
WORF
No response, sir. The Don Gottans
now control the sphere's
communications.
PICARD
This is unacceptable. Ensign, how
much time?
PHLYNN
They will enter the vortex in five
minutes.
Off their reactions.
CUT TO:
SPHERE (OPTICAL)
Data is seated, surrounded by screens of the Don Gottans.
HYUS
(Calm assertiveness)
Recalibrate the shifting hyper
tropic, systemic malapropisms to
point five voltic gellanites.
DATA
Resolution is currently at point
two gellanites and falling.
ANTONUS
Zylus, intensify the Wimhurst
criterion.
(Looks to Zylus)
Why have you lowered your
participatory input?
When Zylus doesn't answer, Antonus studies him momentarily.
ANTONUS
Hyus, look at Zylus.
HYUS
(Kytes style rudeness)
For what reason?
ANTONUS
The shock of trans-dimensional
passage is exceeding his self
awareness.
(Doomesdayish)
I fear our time in this universe
has been far too long. Maintaining
control of this craft will become
increasingly difficult.
Off data's slight reaction.
CUT TO:
BRIDGE
As before, with tangible intensity.
RIKER
Bridge to Chief O'Brien.
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
O'Brien here.
RIKER
What will it take to lock on to
Data's signal and beam him back?
O'BRIEN
It's tricky enough with him at warp
speed and without a communicator,
but the flux wave makes it
impossible.
RIKER
You get his signal; we'll take care
of the flux wave. Bridge out.
GEORDI
The Don Gottans used the rest of
the tri-rhenium in their
"experiments".
WORF
The Lumino has insufficient
shielding to withstand a photon
torpedo.
GEORDI
No, we need to disrupt the Lumino's
wave generator without leaving Data
unprotected.
Phlynn turns to the Captain.
PHLYNN
Captain, I believe I have a plan.
Picard is surprised by the ensign's enthusiasm.
CUT TO:
CARGO BAY (OPTICAL)
Phlynn and Geordi are in the booth above. Several large, blue
barrels are stacked by the doors.
PHLYNN
The flux wave generator will lock
on to any object of sufficient mass
within its range.
GEORDI
So these cargo barrels should
spread the flux wave thin enough
for us to transport Data.
Phlynn opens the cargo bay doors and the barrels fly out.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Commander, report to the Bridge as
soon as possible. Worf is
establishing communication.
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE
As before.
WORF
The sphere's communications is no
longer under the Don Gottans'
control.
PICARD
On screen, Lieutenant.
CUT TO:
ANGLE - INTERCUT AS NEEDED
Data, on the view screen, is too busy to notice Picard. The
transmission is garbled by vertical static.
PICARD
Data.
Data stops what he's doing and looks up.
PICARD
Data listen to me. This is
important.
DATA
Excuse me, Captain, but the
situation requires my full
attention.
Geordi and Phlynn enter from turbolift.
PICARD
Then let me be brief. The Don
Gottans have manipulated you into
going with them. Data, they have no
intention of returning.
Data pays attention.
GEORDI
Data, scan your short-term memory
for any input ignored by your
visual cortex.
CUT TO:
SPHERE - INTERCUT AS NEEDED (OPTICAL)
The crew is on the view screen. The Don Gottans are
overwhelmed by the intensity of their surroundings. Data
processes Geordi's request and then looks at Antonus, who is
barely coherent enough to give Data a meaningful look which
confirms Picard's accusation.
DATA
Unfortunately, reversing course
from this position is impossible.
GEORDI
You do what you can. We're getting
ready to beam you back.
ANTONUS
Data, understand that all we sought
was proof of a three dimensional
existence. I regret your unwilling
involvement in this.
DATA
I have begun to regret my
involvement as well.
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE
As before.
WORF
The flux wave has dropped to ten
percent.
PHLYNN
That's the lowest it's going to
get.
RIKER
(To com)
We've done all we can, O'Brien.
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
I think I've got a lock on him, but
it's very weak.
RIKER
Energize.
CUT TO:
SPHERE (OPTICAL)
As before. Ten seconds of static and chaos before...
CUT TO:
HYUS KYTES'S LAST WORDS
I must maintain equilibrium!
CUT TO:
MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
As before. Angle from behind tactical. The main view screen
shows the sphere entering the microstar with a flash of
light. After a beat...
RIKER
Do you have him?
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
I'm afraid not, sir. The lock was
too unstable.
The crew is morose for about five seconds. Then, with another
flash of light, the sphere re-emerges.
CUT TO:
SPHERE (OPTICAL)
Data is sitting, a bit dazed. The Don Gottan's screens are
now static. Data twitches briefly before the transporter beam
dematerializes him.
CUT TO:
TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
O'Brien and Geordi are standing behind the controls. Data
materializes half-lying half-sitting. Geordi approaches.
GEORDI
Here Data, let me give you a hand.
Data reaches for Geordi's hand and savors the feeling before
muttering...
DATA
(Twitchingly)
Geordi, I believe I am temporarily
incapable of motion.
GEORDI
When you're ready I think you
should let Beverly and I take a
look at you.
DATA
That would be beneficial.
Data gets up slowly and starts to lose his balance. Geordi
intercepts.
GEORDI
Whoa, take it easy. Are you ok?
DATA
I am simply readjusting to gravity
that pulls in only one direction.
He regains his balance and they begin to leave.
DATA
I appreciate you waiting for my
return.
Geordi is rightfully confused by this remark.
GEORDI
Sure. Where else would we be? By
the way... it's good to have you
back.
O'Brien expresses relief and as data and Geordi exit.
CUT TO:
SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
At warp speed. Time has passed.
CUT TO:
READY ROOM
Data and Picard are both seated. The lights are dimmed for
night.
PICARD
From our perspective you were only
gone for a few seconds, yet six
months passed for you.
DATA
We did not anticipate the non co
linearity of time between
dimensions. Theoretically, I could
have re-emerged a thousand years
from now or a million years ago.
PICARD
Your relationship with the Don
Gottans must have changed
dramatically during that time.
DATA
Once the sphere passed through the
vortex, they were no longer on
board. I can only speculate they
succeeded in their objective.
PICARD
And did you in yours?
DATA
I believe so. The human tendency to
substitute objectivity with
numinous abstraction has always
confused me. However, during my
isolation, I came into contact with
my non-contingent existence. In an
attempt to adjust to my
surroundings, I accepted a more...
spiritual perspective.
PICARD
It seems your experience was a
positive one. I must admit, I was
convinced that your reasons for
quitting Starfleet were legitimate.
DATA
If I am to resign from Starfleet,
it will be to develop my humanity,
not to abandon it.
PICARD
Fortunately no harm was Done.
(Beat)
But tell me, Data, how would you
describe what you saw?
DATA
That answer is dependent on one's
position relative to the space-time
continuum.
PICARD
How do you mean?
DATA
You had to be there, sir.
The music comes up, Picard wordlessly uncorks the bottle of
wine and begins to pour two glasses. Meanwhile, Hyus, Zylus
and Antonus live happily ever after as three Siamese triplets
joined at the brain.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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