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TF01 3,Secession - Part 1 4,by Stephen P.Cole Here is a copy of my rejected TNG script, "Secession". I would welcome any comments or criticisms. The script came back exactly eight weeks after I sent it off. The rejection letter, as expected, says little except to remind me that I am only allowed two tries. This was my first. Writers shouldn't use this format as a guide. I wrote the script on my Mac using Microsoft Word, which is great, but I've left behind some of the formatting info in bringing it over to my Unix machine. STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION -------------------------------- "Secession" ------------- Copyright (C) 1992 Stephen P. Cole ------------------------------------ TEASER FADE IN: EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise flies at warp speed. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's Log, Stardate 46095.7. The Enterprise is on a diplomatic mission to Denarra Three, a Federation world on the verge of secession. Our job is to convince them to remain part of the alliance. INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM PICARD is talking to Starfleet Admiral BURKE, who is shown on the screen. BURKE Denarra Three began as an Earth colony. But because of its remote location, contact with the rest of the Federation has always been limited. PICARD That explains why I know so little about it. BURKE This isolation is the root of the problem. As the rest of the Federation has advanced technologically, Denarra Three has not. (a beat) Denarrans think that we're overly dependent on technology; that we're being dehumanized by devices such as replicators and holodecks. They see secession as the best way to prevent our technology from contaminating their society. PICARD So our job is to show them that despite our technology, we're not all that bad? BURKE Precisely. Governor Lang, their leader, opposes secession. He asked for a starship to visit. He hopes that you will allay the fears of his people, which are based more on rumor and hearsay than actual experience. PICARD Given its isolation, it would seem that Denarra Three has effectively seceded already. Why do we care if they formalize it? BURKE A couple of reasons. Defections are never good for an alliance. Also, we fear that an independent Denarra III, given its lack of defenses, would not last long. The Denarrans don't seem to fully appreciate this point. EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise is coming into orbit around Denarra Three. INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE Denarrans are preparing for the arrival of the Enterprise crew. Governor LANG and his wife AUDREY stand at the front of the room. Senator KELLER, leader of the Denarran legislature, stands off to one side. LANG Please, everyone, take your places. The Federation visitors will be here in a moment. An AIDE approaches Keller from behind and taps him on the shoulder. AIDE Senator Keller? Keller takes the aide aside, away from the crowd. KELLER (softly) Is everything ready? AIDE Yes, Senator. KELLER Good. Today the Enterprise crew will give us the final excuse we need to break away from the Federation forever. Governor Lang turns to his wife. LANG Audrey, where's Sarah? SARAH, who is about ten years old, approaches her parents. AUDREY Darling, please stand over here. Audrey positions Sarah slightly to one side, near some other people. Everyone settles down. In the center of the room, Picard, Riker, Beverly, and Troi materialize. While this is happening, a hand surreptitiously places a hypo-syringe against Sarah's back, and we hear a faint hiss. But in the excitement, neither Sarah nor anyone else notices. LANG Ladies and gentlemen of the starship Enterprise, welcome to Denarra Three. I am Governor Richard Lang. PICARD Thank you, Governor. I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard. May I present my first officer, Commander William Riker; our chief medical officer, Doctor Beverly Crusher; and Deanna Troi, ship's counselor. LANG May I introduce Senator David Keller, leader of our legislature. Keller nods to the Enterprise crew. LANG (CONT.) Also I would like to present my wife, Audrey. Lang turns to acknowledge Audrey. Just as he does so, however, Sarah collapses and falls to the floor. Audrey turns. AUDREY Sarah! Beverly reaches the girl first. She checks that she is breathing and has a pulse, then pulls out her pocket medical scanner and scans the girl. After a moment, Sarah opens her eyes, looks confused by all the attention, and tries to move. BEVERLY There, just lie still for a moment. How do you feel? SARAH A little dizzy. Someone produces a cup of water. Beverly gives the girl a drink, and pockets her medical scanner. BEVERLY It was probably just the excitement. You're going to be fine. SARAH I feel better. The dizziness is gone now. Lang and Audrey help Sarah to stand. LANG Doctor, thank you. Audrey, why don't you take Sarah home to rest a little? You can catch up with us later. Audrey nods, then she and Sarah exit. LANG (to Picard) Well, Captain, I would like to show you our capital, if that suits you. PICARD By all means, Governor, we are eager to see it. EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise is in orbit around Denarra Three. INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM O'BRIEN is at the console. Picard, Riker, Beverly, and Troi materialize on the platform and step down. RIKER An interesting tour. PICARD Agreed. Conference in one hour to compare notes and discuss our plans for the rest of the visit. Picard exits. TROI (to Beverly and Riker) Care to join me in Ten Forward? Riker nods in agreement. BEVERLY You two go ahead; I'll catch up. I need to check in at sickbay. INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM Picard is seated behind his desk. The door signal sounds. PICARD Come. Beverly enters and approaches the desk. BEVERLY Captain, I just stopped in sickbay to have a more detailed look at the scan I made of the Governor's daughter. I found something very disturbing. PICARD What's that? BEVERLY She's dying. FADE OUT. END OF TEASER ACT ONE FADE IN: INT. CONFERENCE ROOM Picard, Riker, Beverly, Troi, Data, Geordi, and Worf are present. RIKER Dying - how? BEVERLY She has a disease known as Phillips' Syndrome. It attacks the central nervous system. RIKER I'm not familiar with it. BEVERLY With good reason. The disease was eradicated elsewhere in the Federation over one hundred and fifty years ago. Riker is puzzled. RIKER Eradicated? But then... BEVERLY Synthesis of the drug needed to cure it involves bombarding another compound with high-energy radiation. Denarra Three lacks the necessary technology. PICARD And what they can't produce given their level of technology, they don't want. TROI It must be difficult to adhere to such an ideology when it costs lives. Beverly nods. BEVERLY Hundreds of lives per year, I would guess. RIKER Do you think they know? BEVERLY Probably; there are some symptoms even at this early stage. But I think we need to be sure. I think we have to tell them what we found. PICARD Agreed. But I must emphasize, Doctor, that we will do nothing more unless they ask us to. Having us force our technology on them is exactly what these people don't want. BEVERLY I agree completely, Captain. EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Enterprise still in orbit around Denarra Three. BEVERLY (V.O.) Medical Log, Stardate 46096.2. Following my discovery that Governor Lang's daughter has a fatal disease, Captain Picard has asked the Governor to meet with us. At the Governor's invitation, we are beaming down to his home. INT. GOVERNOR'S RESIDENCE Picard and Beverly materialize in a corner. Governor Lang and Audrey approach them. LANG Captain, Doctor, welcome. PICARD Governor Lang, Mrs. Lang. Thank you for inviting us into your home. I asked for this meeting so we could discuss a serious personal matter. Lang and Audrey exchange pained expressions. LANG It's about Sarah, isn't it? BEVERLY Then you know? LANG Yes. Please, come and sit down. Picard and Beverly sit down; Lang and Audrey sit opposite them. LANG I was afraid of this since you took out that scanner, Doctor. (a beat) We've known about the disease for almost two years now. Sarah complained of a soreness in her legs. Audrey took her to the Doctor, who made the diagnosis. Audrey grimaces. Lang takes her hand in his. PICARD We are sorry to have troubled you with our visit. We felt it was important, in case you were unaware of the disease, to let you know so that your daughter could be treated. LANG We sincerely appreciate your concern. AUDREY (sobbing softly) Yes, we do. It was very thoughtful of you to come. Lang puts his arm around his wife. BEVERLY At the risk of troubling you further, I feel it necessary to make sure you understand that, elsewhere in the Federation, a cure exists for this disease. Picard shows some surprise at these words; he wasn't going to mention the cure. Audrey sobs loudly. Lang tries to comfort her. LANG Darling, please. Lang is unable to calm his wife and decides it is best to take her out of the room. He stands. LANG Here, let me take you into the bedroom. You must rest. Lang raises Audrey to her feet, and escorts her from the room. Picard and Beverly stand and look on helplessly. Lang returns alone seconds later. PICARD Governor, I'm so terribly sorry... LANG It's all right, Captain. I'm sure you can understand how difficult this has been. Yes, we know there's a cure. All Denarrans know. It must seem to you that we are cruel and heartless to allow our daughter to suffer when a cure is available. From Beverly's expression, it is clear that to her, such a system does seem cruel. BEVERLY Would it really detract from the purity of your planet's way of life to accept Federation technology in just this one instance? LANG No, Doctor, I don't think that it would. But once an exception is made, it would be easy to make another, and another. (a beat) We sincerely believe that importing modern Federation technology would greatly harm our society. So we have had to draw the line somewhere. We do what we can with our own level of technology. No exceptions. Beverly frowns at these words, but Picard's expression betrays no emotion. During the following exchange, while Picard tries to smooth over the earlier unpleasantness, Beverly continues to look downcast. PICARD Speaking for the Federation, I want you to know that we respect your right to make that decision. We are here to help - but only if you ask. LANG I appreciate that, Captain. My belief is that when other Denarrans hear you say that, the move to secede will lose momentum. PICARD I sincerely hope so. LANG I wish to thank you both for having the courage to bring us this difficult news. I'll see you at this evening's reception. PICARD Until this evening, Governor. INT. BEVERLY'S QUARTERS Beverly is alone, relaxing. COMPUTER (V.O.) Doctor Beverly Crusher: communication requested from Audrey Lang. Point of origin: planet Denarra Three. Beverly sits up and looks attentively at the screen. BEVERLY On screen. The Governor's wife Audrey appears on the screen. BEVERLY Mrs. Lang, hello. AUDREY Doctor I... just called to thank you for your interest in my daughter. It was very touching to see such concern from a stranger. BEVERLY You're most welcome. The concern is genuine. I wish there were a way to cure her. AUDREY My husband has long advocated asking the Federation for assistance in such life-or-death cases. It is his hope that one day that will come to pass, and that our daughter will be cured. Beverly, thinking that the girl may be cured after all, smiles. BEVERLY I hope he's right. AUDREY I'm afraid it won't happen. The secessionist movement is stronger than my husband will admit. I think secession is imminent. (a beat) When it comes, all contact with the Federation, and all hope of ever seeing my daughter cured, will vanish. BEVERLY I'm sorry to hear you say that. AUDREY So you see, the reason I broke down last night is because I see your visit (sobbing) as our last chance to get Sarah cured. Audrey sobs some more. Beverly waits until she has regained her composure before continuing. BEVERLY Have you discussed your feelings with your husband? AUDREY Yes, but I've gotten nowhere. For him to agree with me would be for him to admit defeat. He can't. BEVERLY It's a terrible situation. I wish there were some way I could help. AUDREY Doctor, I have been thinking. Richard will never ask you for help; in his position he cannot. But what if I were to ask you to cure our daughter, without his knowledge? Beverly, shocked at first, thinks for a moment and realizes that it could work. BEVERLY Federation law states clearly that a request from either parent is sufficient authorization for medical treatment of a child. (a beat) But if we were to cure her, it would mean bringing foreign technology to Denarra Three. That could seriously damage Federation-Denarran relations. Audrey is prepared for this objection. AUDREY I believe I could keep it secret for quite some time. Our doctors can do nothing for Sarah, so there is no need for her to be examined. Also there are rare instances of remission with Phillips' syndrome; we could always attribute it to that. (a beat) Doctor, I realize I'm asking a lot. But I'm desperate. Can you help me? Beverly wants to say yes, but not behind Picard's back. BEVERLY Possibly, but it is a delicate situation. I will have to discuss it with Captain Picard. AUDREY By all means, Doctor. Please do. INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM Beverly is standing. Picard is seated behind his desk. They are clearly in the middle of a somewhat heated discussion. PICARD It is absolutely out of the question. BEVERLY I don't see why. These people are Federation citizens. Under Federation law, one parent's request is sufficient for me to act. PICARD Legally, yes. But you have to look at the larger picture, Beverly. It's not just the Governor who doesn't want us to help. It's their whole society. BEVERLY Frankly, I don't think their society ought to get to vote here. Picard stands up and walks toward Beverly. PICARD Suppose that you used our technology to cure the Governor's daughter and, somehow, it became known? What would Denarrans think of us? Willfully disregarding one of their most highly-prized principles. How would they be able to trust the Federation in the future? BEVERLY We could do it in such a way that the cure remains a secret. PICARD Possibly. But I'm trying to get the Denarran people to trust us. How can I do that while you are simultaneously sneaking around on some secret mission? BEVERLY I think that these political considerations have to be secondary. There's a girl down there, dying. Her mother has asked me to cure her. How can anything else be more important? PICARD These other considerations do matter. We have a mission to fulfill here. What you propose to do could put that mission in serious jeopardy. Beverly paces around the room a little, gathering her thoughts for one more try. BEVERLY The girl will likely die unless we help now, Captain. (a beat) How can you let her die? Picard frowns. PICARD Doctor, I'm afraid we've reached an impasse. My position is firm. (a beat) I understand how difficult this situation is for you. Regrettably, given the circumstances, I must refuse to let you help them. BEVERLY (coldly) I see. Beverly turns and exits. INT. BEVERLY'S QUARTERS Beverly is seated before the same viewscreen as before. She presses a button. Audrey appears on the screen. AUDREY Doctor, have you spoken to the Captain already? BEVERLY Yes I have. I'm afraid that despite all my arguments, he refused to let me help you. Audrey is clearly disappointed by the news. AUDREY I'm not surprised. Like my husband, Captain Picard is constrained by his position. (a beat) Thank you for trying. Beverly's resigned demeanor suddenly changes to one of anxious determination. BEVERLY Mrs. Lang, wait. I can't do this. I want to give you the medicine. AUDREY But you would be disobeying your Captain. BEVERLY The Captain asks me to put political considerations before my oath as a physician. I can't do that. (a beat) I cannot allow your daughter to die. AUDREY If it were to become known, it would ruin your career. BEVERLY You're going to keep it secret. And if it does come out, I am prepared to accept the consequences. Audrey thinks for a moment. AUDREY Doctor, I am so very desperate. If you are sure that you want to go through with it, I will accept your help. Beverly smiles confidently. BEVERLY I am absolutely sure. Here's what we'll do. I'll bring a small vial containing the medicine to this evening's reception. I'll give it to you when no one is watching. You can administer it to your daughter later. AUDREY I won't give it to her until it becomes clear that all other avenues of obtaining the drug have been closed. This will minimize the risk to both of us. BEVERLY Very well. AUDREY Oh Doctor, thank you so much. I will never forget your kindness. BEVERLY I'll see you this evening. Audrey's image is replaced by the Starfleet logo. Beverly stares at the screen in silence. FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE ACT TWO FADE IN: EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE The Enterprise is in orbit around Denarra Three. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's Log, Stardate 46096.8. This evening, Governor Lang of Denarra Three is holding a reception in our honor. This will be an important opportunity for my officers to make a good impression on those Denarrans who distrust the Federation. INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM Data, Geordi, Worf, Beverly, and Troi are present, ready to beam down. O'Brien is there to operate the transporter. Picard and Riker enter. PICARD Everyone ready? The officers move toward the transporter platform. Data hesitates. DATA (to Picard) Captain, may I have a word with you before we beam down? Picard stops and turns toward Data. PICARD Of course, Mister Data, what is it? DATA With all due respect, sir, it would seem that my presence, since I am the very embodiment of Federation technology, may cause these people some discomfort. Perhaps it would be better if I were to remain on board? PICARD Thank you for your suggestion, Mister Data. I am somewhat ashamed to admit that, at first, I had the same thought. (a beat) But nothing is to be gained by hiding anything from these people. They are deciding whether to close their door to the rest of the Federation, forever. Let us show them who we, the rest of the Federation, are - with no reservations. Then let them decide. DATA Very well, sir. All step up onto the transporter platform. INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE The room has been redecorated for the reception. Governor Lang and his wife Audrey are talking to Picard, Data, and Geordi. Senator Keller and his aide are watching them from a distance. Both are repulsed by the presence of Data. AIDE They treat the robot as if he were a normal member of the crew. KELLER He represents everything we fear in the Federation. How long will it be before we are visited by ships staffed entirely by robots like him? AIDE A frightening prospect. KELLER I have to go and act civil toward them. Stay alert. The aide nods. Keller walks over to join the group. As he arrives, Audrey is asking Geordi a question. AUDREY Mister LaForge, forgive my curiosity, but what is the purpose of the apparatus covering your eyes? GEORDI This visor allows me to see, Mrs. Lang. I was born blind. (He removes the visor.) The visor feeds visual information directly to my visual cortex through these two implants. Geordi points to the implants, then replaces the visor. KELLER Does this give you normal vision? GEORDI No, Senator. My vision is quite different. I see a wider band of radiation than does the unaided eye. KELLER I see. Then why is it that everyone does not receive such implants and wear a visor, if there are benefits? GEORDI Well, the system isn't perfect. The visor causes a certain amount of pain. KELLER But if it were not for the pain, everyone would follow your example? GEORDI Well... no. While there is some advantage, it is minor. Even if it were a major advantage, and there were no pain, I don't think anyone would want to do it. The system nature gave us works pretty well - in most cases. Why tamper with it? KELLER In a sense, that is the underlying philosophy of our world. PICARD It is a philosophy that we truly appreciate. Starfleet's overriding concern in our dealings with you is to protect your planet's unique way of life. LANG A progressive attitude for which we are very thankful. Keller turns his attention from Geordi's visor to Data. He studies Data for a moment. KELLER (to Riker) Are robot officers common in the Federation now, Commander? RIKER No, Senator, Commander Data is unique. With all due respect, I must say that I find the word "robot" inappropriate. Mister Data is third in command of the Enterprise. That says something about his abilities. Keller is surprised to hear that Data is in the chain of command. KELLER It says something, certainly. (to Data) Commander Data, do you suppose it is just a matter of time before individuals such as yourself are produced in large quantities? DATA Duplicating my design has proven difficult for Federation scientists, Senator. But since one man was able to design me, it is reasonable to assume that continued work by others will eventually allow them to duplicate my functionality, if not my exact design. KELLER I suppose that one day, starships will be staffed entirely by beings such as yourself. DATA I believe that is unlikely, sir. Humans appear to me to have an insatiable desire to explore space. I do not believe that they would be content to give up that pursuit. KELLER But this exploration is risky. Many thousands have died. Instead they could remain at home, each in his own perfect, holodeck- generated world, and leave everything else to beings such as you, Mister Data. (a beat) That is what we see in the future of the Federation, and it frightens us. That is why we want to secede. There is an awkward pause. The Senator's words have made everyone else uncomfortable. Audrey breaks the silence by changing the subject. AUDREY Captain, what do you think of Denarra? PICARD I find it a delightful place. There is a great appeal to the society that you have created here. I am convinced that, were the fine qualities of Denarra Three better-known elsewhere in the Federation, it would have a positive impact on Federation life. Beverly and Troi approach the group, but Troi stops Beverly before they reach it. TROI Beverly, are you all right? You seem very nervous. BEVERLY I'm fine. I just dislike official functions. Lang sees the two women approach. LANG Ah, Doctor Crusher, Counselor Troi, do join us. TROI We would be delighted to, Governor. They join the group. Beverly stands next to Audrey. LANG Captain Picard was telling us earlier about some of the other Federation races, whom we here on Denarra know so little about. (to Troi) I hadn't realized that you are from Betazed, Counselor. TROI Yes I am, Governor, though I am only half Betazoid. LANG Yet you possess some of that race's unique powers? TROI Yes. But while full Betazoids are telepathic, I am merely able to sense the emotional states of others. BEVERLY (to Audrey) Mrs. Lang, the table is set with some interesting-looking foods. Would you be so kind as to describe some of them to me? AUDREY Of course, Doctor. Beverly and Audrey move off toward the table, leaving the rest of the group behind. Troi's eyes can be seen following them. LANG I imagine that such an ability can be quite useful in many situations. TROI Um... Troi, still watching Beverly and Audrey, shifts her eyes back to the Governor. TROI Yes, it can be. Beverly and Audrey have moved off. Beverly is admiring some of the foods on the table. BEVERLY These look lovely. AUDREY Cooking is a serious art on Denarra. As you can see, our chefs get quite fancy. Beverly reaches into her pocket and pulls out the vial containing the medicine. BEVERLY (Whispering) Here is the vial. Beverly hands the vial surreptitiously to Audrey. Approaching quickly from across the room, unknown to them, are Senator Keller and the aide. KELLER (Loudly) May I see what Doctor Crusher is giving to you, Mrs. Lang? Beverly and Audrey, startled, turn to face the opposition leader. Keller's loud voice has attracted the attention of all those in the room. Picard and Riker are moving in, as is the Governor. Audrey still holds the vial in her hand. She and Beverly are panic-striken and say nothing. LANG Audrey, what is going on? KELLER Governor, I observed Doctor Crusher giving something to Mrs. Lang. In view of our serious restrictions on imports... Lang takes the vial from Audrey's hand. LANG What is this? AUDREY Oh it's nothing, really. This is mine, a vitamin supplement I have been taking. I was showing it to the Doctor and asking her opinion of its usefulness. Beverly nods, trying to support Audrey's story. KELLER I respectfully suggest that explanation is not correct. And I am willing to back my assertion with a recording made of a conversation between these two this afternoon, discussing their plan to bring this alien substance to our world. PICARD Doctor, I demand an explanation, now. BEVERLY The Senator is correct. The vial contains medication that would cure the Governor's daughter of her terminal illness. I take full responsibility for my actions in bringing it here. AUDREY No, it was my idea, I asked her to do it. KELLER How ironic, that as we sit here discussing whether continued contact with the Federation will contaminate our culture, the first step in this infiltration is taking place across the room. AIDE We see now that all the Federation's promises of non-interference are empty ones. BEVERLY I was acting on my own behalf. The responsibility is mine alone. KELLER No doubt a defense that will be used again and again if we allow it. LANG Audrey, I... AUDREY I had to do it, Richard. For Sarah. I knew that though you love her with your whole heart, you could never make such a request. Governor Lang, absorbed by his wife's confession, looks up, and realizes that he must deal with the situation at hand. LANG Captain, I think it may be best if you return to your ship at this time. After both sides have had a chance to calm down, we can discuss the matter further. PICARD I think that's a good suggestion, Governor. The Enterprise officers move off a little. Picard taps his communicator pin. PICARD Picard to Enterprise. O'BRIEN (V.O.) O'Brien here, sir. PICARD Beam us up, Mister O'Brien. The Enterprise crew disappear. Keller and his aide, watching them go, are a bit apart from the rest of the party. Keller smiles. KELLER (to Aide) I think the matter of secession may soon be settled. INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM O'Brien is at the controls. Picard, Riker, Beverly, Troi, Data, Worf, and Geordi materialize on the platform and step down. O'BRIEN You're back early. Boring party? Riker silences O'Brien with a stern look, and motions for him to follow Riker out of the room. Geordi, Data, and Worf file out as well. Troi hesitates slightly, looking at Beverly, then exits. Beverly stands facing the transporter console. Picard is behind her. There is a lengthy, awkward silence. PICARD Beverly, how could you? Beverly turns to face Picard. BEVERLY We were that little girl's last chance. For me to refuse to help was to condemn her to death. I couldn't do that. How could you ask me to do that? PICARD But the consequences of your action could be enormous. This could be the final straw that ensures secession. Beverly walks toward the platform, then turns back to face Picard. BEVERLY I know. I was certain that we could keep it a secret. (a beat) I stand by my actions as permissible under Federation law. But I did disobey your orders, Captain, and I am prepared to accept the consequences. PICARD Speaking personally, while I question your priorities, I admire your courage in making what must have been a difficult decision. If there are repercussions to this incident, I want you to know that I will do everything in my power to support you. BEVERLY Thank you, Captain. PICARD But now, speaking as Captain of the Enterprise, I'm afraid that the Denarrans will interpret leniency on my part as an endorsement of your actions. Therefore you are temporarily relieved of your duties and confined to your quarters. BEVERLY I understand. Beverly exits; Picard is left alone. FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO ACT THREE FADE IN: EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Enterprise in orbit around Denarra Three. INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard, Riker, Data, and Worf are present. Governor Lang appears on the screen. He looks exhausted and worried. LANG The incident has set in motion a crisis situation in our government. Many are calling for immediate secession, and for my removal from office. But I think I have managed to consolidate my position. PICARD I'm pleased to hear that. LANG You may not be, Captain. I only managed to do so by publicly expressing deep concern over the incident, and advocating that we re- evaluate our position with regard to continued Federation membership. Picard frowns. PICARD Do you think secession is inevitable? LANG I think there is only one way to avoid secession: that is for the Federation to make it clear that it does not approve of Doctor Crusher's actions. If you are able to distance yourself from her, the incident may blow over. PICARD I have already informed Starfleet of the situation. I have been instructed to convene a formal inquiry at Starbase 117. We are departing for the starbase now. I will keep you informed as the inquiry progresses. EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise flies at warp speed. INT. TEN FORWARD Troi is seated alone at a table. Riker enters and crosses the room to join her. TROI What is the news from the bridge? RIKER The Denarrans say our only chance to salvage the situation is to make Beverly the scapegoat. The Captain has set course for Starbase 117 where a full inquiry will take place. Troi is saddened by the news. TROI I think the Captain should be more supportive of Beverly. After all, what she did is legally permissible under Federation law. One might even argue that her medical oath obligated her to provide the medicine. RIKER Those arguments are interesting, but not sufficient justification for disobeying one's commanding officer. Troi had hoped for a different response. TROI I guess it is the trademark of a good first officer to follow his Captain, no matter what. Riker frowns. RIKER Well thank you very much for that fine compliment, Counselor. TROI I'm sorry, I didn't mean to give offense. I just meant that if you tried to look at things from Beverly's point of view... Riker stands, and pushes in his chair. RIKER (his voice rising) I have. The Doctor did a very courageous thing. But she was wrong. You seem to think I say that simply because the Captain has said it. But it's what I truly believe. I'm not a robot, blindly agreeing with Picard's every move. Riker turns to leave. TROI Will, wait... Riker ignores her and exits from Ten Forward. INT. MAIN BRIDGE Riker is seated in the command chair. Worf is also present. Geordi enters and approaches Riker. GEORDI Commander, how long do you think we'll be stopped at Starbase 117? RIKER Several days at least. Probably more like a week. Why do you ask? GEORDI I hate to discuss trivial matters at a time like this, but I've noticed a slight drop in the efficiency of the warp engines. Nothing serious, but there is some routine maintenance that I'd like to do while we're at the starbase. I'll need the engines off line for at least two days. RIKER You've got it, no problem. Worf's console beeps. WORF Commander, message coming in from Starbase 117. They are informing us that the U.S.S. Exeter and the U.S.S. Victory have altered their courses and will join us at the starbase. What they don't say is, why. I'm confused. RIKER Here's a hint, Mister Worf. With those two ships and the Enterprise in port, there will be three officers of command rank present. GEORDI (in disbelief) Court martial? RIKER I have no idea if it'll come to that. But one way or another, Starfleet wants a speedy resolution to the situation, since it could affect events on Denarra Three. INT. TROI'S QUARTERS Troi is seated, gazing idly out the window. The door signal sounds. TROI Come in. Riker enters. Troi stands and goes toward him. She is glad to see him. TROI Will... RIKER I'm sorry for what happened earlier, Deanna. TROI No, I'm the one who should be apologizing. I'm so sorry, Will. RIKER Beverly's situation is stressful for both of us. I think we just let it get to us a little. TROI You're right. And this is no time for us to be quarreling. Beverly needs us; we have to work together to help her. RIKER Absolutely. Why don't we go and see her, and see if there's anything we can do? TROI Good idea. She'll probably be alone and depressed. They step out into the corridor and head for Beverly's quarters. The tension broken, they are both smiling. TROI I knew you wouldn't remain angry with me for long. RIKER Did your Betazoid powers tell you that? TROI No, I left some chocolate in your quarters as a peace offering. Riker grins. RIKER Ah. Well after we look in on Beverly, I think we should investigate that. Troi nods affirmatively. INT. BEVERLY'S QUARTERS Beverly and Data are there. They are carefully studying some computer displays. Beverly points to one of the screens. BEVERLY This sample has some of the desired properties. Perhaps selenium is the key ingredient? DATA A possibility. I could vary the amount of selenium and see if there is a relationship. The door signal sounds. Beverly makes an obvious attempt to hide their work, turning off some displays. She and Data turn away from the screens and face the center of the room. BEVERLY Come in. Riker and Troi enter. Beverly is happy to see them. BEVERLY Will, Deanna. DATA (to Beverly) I will be going now, Doctor. I will come and see you later with my results. Beverly nods. Data exits. TROI Results? BEVERLY Data is helping me, doing a little background research for the inquiry. Nothing important. TROI I must say, Beverly, I'm a bit surprised. We came here to cheer you up. But you seem anything but gloomy. BEVERLY Well, I'll try to take on a more appropriate air. She frowns. BEVERLY (CONT.) Seriously though, I made my decision, and I'm comfortable with it. I'm ready for whatever happens next. RIKER Beverly, don't hesitate to call on us if there's anything we can do. TROI Anything at all. BEVERLY Thank you both. From the look of things, I'll need all the help I can get. EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise flies at warp speed. INT. MAIN BRIDGE Riker, Troi, and Worf are present. RIKER Mister Worf, I haven't seen Commander Data on the bridge for some time. Isn't this normally his watch? WORF Sir, Commander Data asked to be excused from his shift, citing personal reasons. Captain Picard approved his request. Riker and Troi exchange puzzled looks. TROI What are Beverly and Data working on? Riker shrugs. PICARD (V.O.) Picard to Riker. RIKER Riker here, Captain. PICARD (V.O.) Number One, how long till we arrive at the starbase? RIKER A little over six hours, Captain. PICARD (V.O.) What would be the projected time at warp one? RIKER Warp one, sir? PICARD (V.O.) You heard me, Number One. RIKER Mister Worf? WORF Twenty-six hours, twenty-two minutes, Captain. PICARD (V.O.) Good. Decrease speed to warp one. RIKER Sir, our arrival is much anticipated; Starbase 117 is bound to inquire as to the reason for the delay. What shall I tell them? INT. BEVERLY'S QUARTERS Picard, Beverly, and Data are there. PICARD I'm sure you'll think of something, Number One. You always do. Picard smiles. RIKER (V.O.) Understood, sir. PICARD Picard out. (to Beverly) You have your extra day, Doctor. BEVERLY Thank you, Captain. It could make a big difference. INT. MAIN BRIDGE Riker, Troi, and Worf are present. RIKER Mister Worf, tell Starbase 117 that we will be delayed. WORF Aye, sir. Should I give a reason? Riker thinks for a moment. RIKER Yes. Tell them that our chief engineer is concerned about a drop in the efficiency of the warp engines, so we have had to reduce speed. WORF Aye, sir. Troi raises her eyebrows. She and Riker smile. TROI I knew you'd think of something. RIKER I always do. EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise flies at warp speed. INT. ENTERPRISE CORRIDOR Beverly and Data are walking very rapidly down the corridor. Riker and Troi approach from the opposite direction, and stop when they see Beverly, who is smiling broadly. RIKER Doctor, aren't you supposed to be confined to your quarters? Beverly and Data don't stop, slow down, or otherwise acknowledge Riker. They disappear around a corner. RIKER (to Troi) Let's find out what this is all about. He and Troi set off after the others. INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM Picard is seated at his desk. The door signal sounds. Picard looks up, in anticipation of saying "come," but the door opens before he can get the word out. Beverly rushes in, with Data. PICARD Success? Riker and Troi enter. BEVERLY Yes! It works. TROI What works? BEVERLY We can cure the girl. RIKER I don't understand. You could cure the girl all along. But they won't allow it. BEVERLY No, I mean we have a way to cure the girl without the use of foreign technology. DATA We have come up with a new way to synthesize the drug needed to cure the girl, a way that is compatible with Denarra Three's technology. PICARD We slowed to give the Doctor and Mister Data a little more time. Once we got to the starbase, it would have been too late. (a beat) Let's send a message to Denarra Three immediately. INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard, Riker, Beverly, Troi, and Data enter from the ready room. Worf surrenders the command chair to Picard and takes his position. Data takes his place at the helm. PICARD Mister Worf, get me Governor Lang on Denarra Three. WORF Aye, sir. Hailing. The screen comes on to show not Governor Lang, but his opponent, Senator Keller. Picard is surprised. PICARD Senator Keller. KELLER Captain. PICARD I would like to speak with Governor Lang. Is he available? KELLER No, I'm afraid that he is not. You may speak to me. I am now Governor of Denarra Three. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE To be continued...