FADE IN:
1 EXT. ENTERPRISE IN SPACE (OPTICAL)
The great ship streaks through space at warp speed.
2 INT. ND CORRIDOR
Two crewmembers, their arms loaded with supplies, race
along the corridor. They pass DOCTOR CRUSHER in the
corridor.
3 NEW ANGLE
Beverly checks her Staff as they pass with emergency
medical packets on way to turbolift.
BEVERLY
Include a burn unit with each
kit. On arrival, identify the
most critically injured and
beam them up to Cargo Bay Six...
PICARD'S COM VOICE
(interrupting)
Doctor Crusher, this is the
Captain.
BEVERLY
(touching wall panel)
Doctor Crusher here.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Additional information. The
number of colonists at the site
is five hundred-four - including
thirty-eight children.
4 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
PICARD is in his Command chair, TROI to his left. WORF
at the Aft Station. GEORDI has the Conn, DATA on Ops.
TASHA at Tactical, BRANT in background.
4 CONTINUED:
The tension level is very high. The mission is urgent.
As Picard answers, RIKER ENTERS from the turbolift,
CROSSES the bridge and takes his position.
PICARD
So far nothing more than the
initial message. Explosion -
cause unknown - many injured.
Are you prepared, Doctor?
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
We believe so, sir.
GEORDI
Captain, we are now at warp nine
point one.
DATA
Which will bring us into the
Quadra Sigma System in three
point two hours.
Riker takes his position.
RIKER
Captain, I have a schematic of
the explosion site. It suggests
the cause as a methane-like gas
seeping in underground...
TROI
(with alarm)
Captain, I am...
5 ANGLE ON TROI
Her face is full of apprehension.
TROI
I am sensing what we encountered
months ago...
Interrupted by the SOUND of the BRIDGE ALARM.
6 ANGLE ON PICARD
He turns. KLAXON HONKING - LIGHTS FLASHING.
7 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER - PICARD'S POV (OPTICAL)
The Main Viewer SHIMMERS as an unusual SHINING,
SPARKLING GRID SHAPE APPEARS, seeming to stretch across
the whole of the galaxy ahead of them.
8 ANGLE ON PICARD (OPTICAL)
He recognizes the shape - he has seen it before en
route to Farpoint Station.
DATA
The "Q" Entity, sir? It is
identical to the grid we
encountered when...
WORF
It reads solid, sir. If we hit
it... !
PICARD
Not now, damn it, "Q"...
(to Helm)
Emergency full stop!
GEORDI
Yes, sir.
TASHA
Shields and deflectors, up, sir.
The familiar SHIMMERING GRID on the viewer is now very
close to the Enterprise. Forward movement stops.
8A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN FRONT OF GRID (OPTICAL)
8B INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
GEORDI
Now reading full stop, sir.
The words overlapped by something akin to ROLLING
THUNDER, accompanied by a BRILLIANT and SUSTAINED FLASH
which becomes RAPIDLY ROTATING, BLINDINGLY BRILLIANT,
DIAMOND-BLUE LIGHT. While there is no hard-edged
Shape, it is of about the same volume of a very large
man.
8B CONTINUED:
"Q" (V.O.)
(amplified and powerful)
Humans, I thought by now you
would have scampered back to your
own little star system.
PICARD
(waits, then)
If this is "Q" I'm addressing,
our vessel and crew are on a
mission of rescue where a group
of badly injured...
"Q" (V.O.)
(interrupting)
We of the "Q" have studied our
recent contact with you... and
are impressed. We have much to
discuss, including perhaps the
realization of your most
impossible dreams.
The expressions of the bridge crew reveal they are
intrigued by this statement... and in the potential
of the "Q" entity to do remarkable things, however
annoying its actions in the past. Even Picard takes
a moment to absorb this.
PICARD
(sarcastically)
However intriguing we may find
that to be, we are now in the
midst of an urgent journey. Once
we have completed that...
"Q" (V.O.)
(louder; angrier)
You will abandon that mission,
Captain. My business with you
takes precedence!
9 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON BRIDGE CREW
Reflections of the BRILLIANT DIAMOND-BLUE LIGHT on
their faces as they look ahead toward this newest Shape
of "Q". They shield their eyes from it.
9 (CONTINUED:)
"Q" (V.O.)
If my magnificence blinds you,
then perhaps something more
familiar...
An explosion of sudden HISSING SOUNDS startles the
bridge crew into expressions of mixed surprise, fear
and loathing.
10 OMITTED
11 ANGLE ON "Q" SERPENT
A WRITHING SNAKE with snapping fangs, continuing mixed
HISSING, DARTS toward them from whence came the "Q"
light image.
12 REVERSE ANGLE
Both Worf and Tasha vaulting down onto the Command
deck, instinctively drawing phasers as they try to
position their own bodies between the frightening
Snake-thing and the bridge Crew, as we:
13 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON TASHA AND WORF
First one, then the other, discover phasers
inoperative. The snake head seems an instant away from
fanging them...
WORF
Damn, the phasers are useless!
PICARD (V.O.)
"Q", STOP THIS!
14 EMPHASIZING PICARD AND RIKER
on their feet.
PICARD
Stop this and we agree to talk
for a moment!
At which WE SEE the reflection of a familiar BRILLIANT
LIGHT FLASH, blinding Picard and Riker again. Then
as they lower their protecting hands, they REACT at
the sight of:
15 ANGLE EMPHASIZING "Q"
in the full-dress uniform of a Starfleet ADMIRAL.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Starfleet Admiral "Q" at your
service!
PICARD
You are not a Starfleet admiral,
"Q"...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Neither am I an Aldebaran serpent,
Captain. But you accepted me as
such.
Riker nods, a hint of the irony of this on his
features.
RIKER
He's got us there, Captain.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(nods)
The redoubtable Commander Riker
whom I noticed before. You seem
to find this amusing.
RIKER
I might, if we weren't trying
to rescue a group of suffering
and dying humans who...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Your species is always suffering
and dying...
PICARD
(interrupting)
No, Lieutenant Worf... !
16 ANGLE TO INCLUDE WORF
trying to ease himself into a clear line of fire
toward "Q". He freezes at Picard's order, eases his
almost hidden small phaser back into his belt.
PICARD
You'll make no move against him
unless I order it.
"Q" smiles toward Worf.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Pity. You might have learned
an interesting lesson. Tsk, a
macro head, a micro brain.
Worf is obviously unrepentant. Picard, thinking
furiously, tries another direction.
PICARD
"Q", you said you had the
realization of "some impossible
dreams" to offer us. Once this
rescue is complete, I'll listen
seriously to whatever proposal
you wish to make and then, subject
to it being acceptable....
16 CONTINUED:
"Q" bursts into what sounds like genuine LAUGHTER.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
"... subject to" your foolish
human values? Picard, why do
you people distrust me so?
Picard starts to open his mouth, shuts it.
DATA
Sir, if...
Picard shakes his head, forcing Data into silence...
also clearly including the rest of his bridge crew in
this.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Yes, Captain, it is best they
don't answer that. But you... you,
Picard, I grant the freedom to
answer me honestly. Why do you
distrust me so?
PICARD
"Q", right now humans may be
dying because you...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(angry now)
SPEAK! Why do you distrust me?
PICARD
(beat)
Why? On our first meeting, "Q",
you seized my vessel, condemned
all humans as savages and on that
charge, you tried us in a
post-atomic twenty-first century
court of horrors where you
attacked my people... then you
again seized my vessel...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
How that angers you: "Seized my
vessel, seized my vessel... "
PICARD
(without pause, ignoring
this)
... and then proceeded to interfere
with our Farpoint mission,
threatening to convict us as
ignorant savages if, in dealing
with complex and powerful
life-forms, we made the slightest
error... and when you failed even
there...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(interrupting)
At that point, the "Q" became
interested in you.
(turns to include bridge
crew)
Cannot some of you understand your
incredible good fortune?!
(to Picard, mimicking)
"Seized my vessel, seized my
vessel... " The complaint of a
closed mind too accustomed to
military privileges.
(to Riker)
But you, Riker, and I remember
you well, what do you make of my
offer?
RIKER
I stand with my Captain.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(smiles)
Of course, you do. Commendable
loyalty.
(indicating bridge crew;
to Riker)
And what of these others? Since
humanity now interests us, how
shall we come to know them better?
RIKER
We don't have time for these
games.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Ah, yes! A game... for interest's
sake, a deadly game. To the game!
And, at a wave of "Q"'s hand, the entire bridge crew
except for Picard... DISAPPEARS, leaving Picard alone
on the bridge.
17 EXT. PLANET PLAIN (OPTICAL)
The bridge crew are standing in approximately their
previous bridge positions on a treeless planet plain.
They have just been snatched from their ship, their
captain and they are understandably confused and
uncertain except for Tasha and Worf whose security
orientation have them immediately combat ready. This
place is bright, hot. Spider-Man is also there, and appears
surprised to be in-costume. He’s perched behind all of
them, adhering to a boulder.
18 EMPHASIZING RIKER
looking up.
19 RIKER POV - TWIN SUNS (OPTICAL)
close together (avoiding the necessity of
twin-shadows), apparently rotating about each other.
Both suns are brilliant but the smaller sun, about
one-quarter the size of the larger, is not quite as
brilliant as the large one.
20 BACK TO EXT. PLAIN (OPTICAL)
Data and Geordi, looking up too, move in next to Riker.
DATA
Obviously a Class-M world, gravity
and oxygen within our limits...
GEORDI
... but a twin sun? Where are
we?
DATA
Considering the power
demonstrated by "Q" the last
time... Anywhere! Assuming this
place even exists.
RIKER
But this won't be boring. If
"Q"'s anything, he's imaginative.
(to the others)
Apparently the captain wasn't
meant to be with us here.
(looks at Spider-Man)
And what are you--?
TASHA
(overlapping)
Sir! Over here... !
21 ANGLE INCLUDING "Q"
who stands where a rock formation has previously hidden
him. He is now wearing a French MARSHAL'S uniform,
circa the Napoleonic Wars. As Riker, very curious,
moves toward "Q", CAMERA MOVES AND PANS TO REVEAL also
a headquarters-type campaign tent of the same era,
complete with shade canopy and transportable field
furniture. "Q" indicates three such chairs with a small
table which holds a pair of tall, cool drinks.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Join me, Riker. Spider-Man. A good game
needs rules and planning...
Riker hesitates.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(continuing)
Wasn't it your own Hartley who
said "Nothing reveals humanity
so well as the games it plays?"
(smiles; nods)
Almost right. Actually, you
reveal yourselves best in how you
play.
Data has moved in next to Riker and speaks quietly.
DATA
Sir, what he has in mind could
provide us with vital information.
Riker nods, moves toward the campaign tent. Spider-Man
warily complies as well. "Q" sits,
waves invitingly toward the empty seats. He also picks
up one of the tall drinks and WE CAN HEAR ICE CLINKING
in it.
22 RIKER, SPIDER-MAN AND "Q"
as Riker inspects the remaining drink without sitting
yet, picks it up and looks a question toward Troi.
Spider-Man lifts his mask above his mouth and
tastes it. Riker looks questioningly at Spider-Man.
TROI
(registering surprise)
What I sense is... pleasure, sir. And confusion--
Spider-Man does not know why he’s here any
more than you do.
Riker sips the drink, registers surprise too.
RIKER
Incredible. I was just thinking
of an old-fashioned lemonade...
SPIDER-MAN
I was thinking of my A--
something similar.
22 CONTINUED:
"Q" (MARSHAL)
... and so it became that. An
excellent thirst quencher; it
becomes quite hot out on this
plane.
RIKER
What about my people?
"Q" makes a waving gesture.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Whatever they want, of course!
23 ANGLE INCLUDING OTHERS
REACTING to the fact they suddenly have tall drinks
of various colored liquids in their hands. Hesitantly,
a couple of them sip. Worf, however, tilts his glass
pouring the contents out onto the sand. Strangely,
this pleases "Q"'s sense of humor.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
The rigid Klingon code! Drink
not with thine enemy!
(to Riker)
Which explains something of why
you defeated them.
RIKER
Still arguing the human past?
Perhaps you're not that original.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Au contraire! It is the human
future that now intrigues us... and
should concern you most. Of all
species, yours cannot abide
stagnation... change is at the
heart of what you are. But
change into what? That's the
question!
DATA
That is what humans call a truism.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(annoyed)
Meaning "hardly original"...
DATA
Do you mean to suggest that humans
should all attain to the abilities of
Spider-Man?
RIKER
(hint of humor)
You're probably barking up the
wrong tree with that one. And
while we're at it...
SPIDER-MAN
Hey!
RIKER
(indicating "Q"'s
uniform, tent)
... this isn't part of any human
future...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
True, I borrowed this from your
stodgy captain's mind. It is
dressing for the game we will play
and games require boundaries,
dangers, rewards, familiar
settings, that sort of thing.
Riker looks over "Q"'s uniform, the tent, etc.
RIKER
It's not that familiar to me...
(calls)
Data?
DATA
(stepping in)
It is from Europe's Napoleonic
Era, sir, late eighteenth, early
nineteenth centuries. This is
a campaign headquarters tent, his
uniform is that of a French Army
marshal, the...
RIKER
(to "Q")
And a marshal outranks even an
admiral...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Would I go from a Starfleet
admiral to anything less?
RIKER
(hint of a smile now)
Of course, you wouldn't.
(indicates)
But Napoleonic equipment on an
alien planet with dual suns... ?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
As you've said, I'm nothing if
not imaginative. And the game
should reflect that. Shall it
be a test of strength?
Meaningless, since you have none.
A test of intelligence? Equally
meaningless...
(eyeing Riker)
A game needs risk... Something
to win; something to lose.
SPIDER-MAN
(standing up) If you want to test my
strength, pal, you might be surprised!
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(sighs) I had high hopes for you, my boy.
You’ll find that there’s always someone stronger
than you. Sit down! You don’t
scare me, and you can’t.
RIKER
If we must play a game, what would
we win?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
The greatest possible future you
can imagine!
(beat; thinking)
Which, of course, requires
something totally disastrous if
you lose!
(thinking again)
The point of this game will be
whether any of you can stay
alive.
24 EMPHASIZING TASHA AND WORF (OPTICAL)
As the others react, Worf responds:
WORF
If your "game" is fair, we will.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
For shame, Lieutenant Worf.
Fairness is a human concept.
(to Riker)
Think imaginatively! It will,
in fact, be completely unfair...
TASHA
You've gone too far.
She is drawing her phaser but "Q" is pointing his
finger at her just as fast.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Game penalty!
Visible even in this bright desert setting, a FLASH
OF LIGHT in which Tasha DISAPPEARS. Reacting, Riker
turns angrily to "Q".
RIKER
Where is she, "Q"? You can forget
your game if...
Spider-Man decks Q right onto the ground; in a FLASH OF LIGHT,
Q is standing again, rubbing his jaw.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
That hurt!
SPIDER-MAN
And it’ll hurt again if you don’t--
Riker holds his arm out in front of Spider-Man in
order to get him to back down, but he doesn’t have
time. Visible even in this bright desert setting, a FLASH
OF LIGHT in which Spider-Man DISAPPEARS. Reacting, Riker
turns angrily to "Q".
"Q" (MARSHAL)
To use a twentieth century term,
Commander, they’re in a... a "penalty
box." Where they can remain
unharmed unless one of you merits
a penalty.
(smiles)
Unfortunately, there are only two
penalty boxes. If any of you should
be sent there... dear Tasha is first in
line to give up the box to you. I had
high hopes for Spider-Man, but it
appear he needs some time to…mature.
GEORDI
And... where does Tasha go once one of
us is in your penalty box?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(to Geordi)
Into "nothingness."
(looking to the Others,
individually)
I entreat you to carefully obey
the rules of the game. The only
one who can destroy your Tasha
now... is you.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
25 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
but not in orbit of a planet. Instead, it seems to
be traveling somewhere at what we know as normal warp
speed. MUSIC only.
26 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard at a turbolift, touches the door, without
effect. Then he tries to bang it.
PICARD
Turbolift Control, do you read?
This is the captain.
No response. Picard CROSSES to his bridge position,
touches his panel controls.
PICARD
(continuing)
Engineering, this is the bridge.
No response.
PICARD
(continuing)
Security -- this is the Captain.
Again -- nothing.
PICARD
(continuing)
Computer?
(waits)
Computer on!
The computer still doesn't respond. He's cut off.
Isolated. Picard touches his insignia.
PICARD
(continuing)
Captain's log...
The SOUND is wrong, indicating that:
PICARD
(continuing)
Damn... I can't even make a log
entry.
TASHA (O.S.)
I wish I could help you, Captain.
27 WIDER ANGLE
as Picard, startled, whirls toward the VOICE. It is
Tasha who stands at her familiar position at security.
Unusually for Tasha, she is showing some strain over what
has been happening.
PICARD
What... what are you doing here?
TASHA
I... well, this sounds strange,
but... I'm in the penalty box.
PICARD
You're what?!
TASHA
(tightly)
In "Q"'s penalty box. As I said,
it sounds strange but it
definitely isn't. Somehow I know
that one more penalty... by me or
anyone... and I'm gone.
Curious and concerned, Picard moves toward her.
PICARD
Gone?
TASHA
(distraught)
Please do not keep reminding
me...
PICARD
I'm sorry...
TASHA
(instantly)
No, I'm sorry. It's so
frustrating to be controlled like
this...
There's a half-SOB in the ordinarily strong and
controlled VOICE and Picard REACTS to it.
PICARD
Lieutenant...Tasha... it's all
right...
TASHA
(astonished and angry)
What the hell am I doing? Crying?
PICARD
Don't worry. There's a new ship's
standing order.
(smiles)
When in a penalty box, some tears
are permitted.
Tasha looks up warmly, comforted by this.
TASHA
Captain... if you weren't a
captain...
"Q" (MARSHAL) (O.S.)
(interrupting)
Consorting with lower rank
females, Captain?
28 ANGLE TO INCLUDE "Q"
seated in the Captain's Command position. He smiles,
enjoys having startled Picard this way.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Destructive to discipline, they
say. But you are, after all, only
human, eh?
Picard has made his way down to the Command level where
he now looks "Q" and the uniform over.
PICARD
A marshal of France? Ridiculous!
"Q" (MARSHAL)
One takes what jobs he can get.
For example, your log entries.
(looks up)
Starship log, stardate today...
This is "Q", speaking for Captain
Jean-Luc Picard, who we consider
too bound by Starfleet custom and
tradition to be useful in this
activity.
PICARD
But who proved himself a
resourceful opponent when he
defeated you at Farpoint.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(with "log" tone again)
The Enterprise is now helpless,
stuck like an Earth insect in
amber while its bridge crew plays
out a game whose real intent...
(aiming this at Picard)
... is to test if their first
officer is worthy of the greatest
gift the "Q" can offer.
Picard takes a long moment to absorb this, then he
nods.
PICARD
So, you're taking on Riker this
time.
(smiles)
Excellent! He'll defeat you just
as I did!
"Q" (MARSHAL)
A wager on that, Captain? Your
command of this starship
against... ?
PICARD
Against your staying out of
humanity's path... forever! Done?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Done!
(smiles)
And you've already lost, Picard.
You see, Riker is to be offered
something impossible to reject.
(speaking slowly, with sarcastic venom)
Besides that…you can’t even beat
Spider-Man.
"Q" storms toward the Ready Room.
29 EXT. THE PLANET
All but Worf are there, studying a point on the distant
terrain.
RIKER
Geordi, can you still see Worf?
GEORDI
(nods)
I'd see the freckles on his nose,
if he had them, sir. He's at the
third ridge now...
TROI
The third ridge... ?
GEORDI
Moving well.
(distracted)
Oh, oh!
(peers)
Good, he sees them. They look
like sentries, sir.
30 EXT. THIRD RIDGE
Worf -- the trained warrior -- approaches with caution.
It is indeed a bivouac area. Worf can hear the unseen
men SPEAKING IN FRENCH. He edges closer.
31 ANOTHER ANGLE
Worf pushes through the rocks, FREEZES.
32 ROCKS - WORF'S POV
Two sentries are walking a perimeter patrol. They are
dressed as Bonapartist soldiers, carrying muskets.
As they approach, WE SEE their uniforms look genuine
enough... but then we make out their faces! Humanoid
but with fearsome, fanged, unhuman features.
33 BIVOUAC AREA
Worf reacts at this. Then he moves as close as he
dares. Those in the camp appear to be preparing for
a battle. But where human troops would be yelling,
these soldiers are GROWLING, SNARLING. Over that, the
CLATTER of caissons -- equipment being assembled.
34 ANGLE ON WORF
He hears a squad approaching -- slips back among the
rocks and DISAPPEARS.
35 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard comes to the door. "Q" is sitting in the chair
with his back to Picard.
PICARD
"Q", listen to me. You seem to
have some need of humans...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Or concern regarding them.
PICARD
Whichever it is, why try to solve
it through this confrontation
with us? Why not a simple direct
explanation, a statement of what
you seek? Why these games?
"Q" turns and WE SEE he is holding Picard's complete
works of William Shakespeare. He indicates the books.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
I'm surprised you have to ask when
your human Shakespeare has
already explained it so well.
PICARD
Indeed he did, "Q". But careful
you don't depend too much on any
single viewpoint he...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(ignoring this;
interrupting)
Why these games I require of you?
A pity you're not familiar with
the contents of your own library.
Hear this, Picard, and reflect.
(lifts book, quotes from
it)
"All the galaxy's a stage, and... "
PICARD
(interrupts)
"All the galaxy?" "All the
world's a stage... "
"Q". (MARSHAL)
Oh, you know that one? Then how
about, "... Life's but a walking
shadow, a poor player that struts
and frets his hour upon the stage,
and then is heard no more. It
is a tale told by an idiot, full
of sound and fury, signifying
nothing."
PICARD
And so you say, how we respond
to a game tells you more about
us than our real life, a "tale
told by an idiot."
(still amused)
Interesting, "Q".
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(lifts book)
Shall I quote from Hamlet?
PICARD
No. I know Hamlet. And what
he said with irony I prefer to
say with conviction.
(quoting)
"What a piece of work is man!
How noble in reason! How infinite
in faculty. In form, in moving,
how express and admirable. In
action, how like an angel. In
apprehension, how like a god... "
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(upset; interrupting)
You don't really see your species
like that?!
PICARD
I see us one day becoming that,
"Q". Is that what concerns you?
"Q" comes angrily to his feet, SLAMMING the volume down
and DISAPPEARING in a FLASH. A startled and puzzled
Picard watches him go, then turns to ponder the meaning
of "Q"'s anger.
36 EXT. PLANET
The same plain. Riker, Troi and Data watch as Geordi
scans the distant desert ridges.
RIKER
Can you still see Worf?
GEORDI
(shakes head)
It's hard to keep him in sight,
sir. But the soldiers there...
they've formed a "skirmishing
line," I think you'd call it... and
they're headed this way.
RIKER
Carrying ancient powder and ball
muskets?
GEORDI
That's what their weapons look
like, sir.
DATA
Muskets are appropriate to the
1790 - 1800 French army uniform.
(shakes head)
But it is hardly a "weapon" by our
standards, sir. A lead ball
propelled by gunpowder -- one-hundred
meters at most with any accuracy...
GEORDI
Against phasers? Just one of our
hand phasers could finish off
an entire regiment of them.
RIKER
Except for one thing...
(to Troi)
That hardly sounds like "Q",
giving us an advantage like that.
(puzzling; then
REACTING)
Unless...
37 SPECIAL EFFECT ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Suspecting some kind of trap, Riker draws his own hand
phaser. He checks its setting, aims it well away from
everybody else... touches the trigger lightly for just
an instant.
The PHASER SOUND precedes an EXPLOSION OF DUST AND DIRT
at a point where Riker was aiming the phaser. It
causes a hole at least the size of one caused by a
howitzer shell.
38 ANOTHER ANGLE
It also produces another effect -- the FORM of Worf,
large phaser in hand, propelling itself INTO SCENE,
rolling to a stop where the Klingon is aiming his
phaser, seeking the away team's "assailant" which fired
the phaser blast.
WORF
(growling it)
DROP YOUR WEAPONS!
He aims this way, then that, attempting quickly to spot
who or whatever is menacing his friends.
RIKER
(exhibits hand phaser)
I'm afraid it was me, Worf.
Making certain our phasers still
operate.
Worf returns his own phaser.
WORF
A warrior's reaction.
GEORDI
Incredible, Worf! You came out
of nowhere!
RIKER
(to Worf)
Report. What did you find?
WORF
Sir... what they're wearing may
be old Earth uniforms, but what's
inside those uniforms isn't human
at all. More like vicious animal
things.
GEORDI
Oh, oh! Good old "Q". But how
can even the most savage animal
forms threaten us if they're armed
with the equivalent of popguns?
39 SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Geordi, who has been scanning the terrain, now turns
to Riker.
GEORDI
They're moving in fast, sir.
40 ANGLE EMPHASIZING RIKER
Data's back is to him.
RIKER
Data, if you've got a theory on
what's happening...
Data's FORM turns, REVEALING IT IS NOT DATA AT ALL,
BUT "Q" -- and using his own VOICE despite the Data
clothing.
"Q" (DATA)
Think fast, Commander Riker.
(REACTING; pointing)
And move fast... !
"Q" is pointing at two of the fierce-looking Animal
Things in French uniform that have moved INTO SIGHT,
aiming their "muskets" at Geordi who jumps behind a
rock. TWO PHASER BLASTS. The first hits a rock near
Geordi. The second BLASTS A BROAD FURROW in the
desert floor.
RIKER
That's no "musket!"
41 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
"Q" is REACTING to the uniformed Animal Things seeing
them now, swinging its weapon in their direction.
Riker spins, FIRES HIS PHASER, DEMATERIALIZING both
his opponents.
RIKER
(anxiously)
Troi, Geordi, Worf... !
"Q" pulls him down as:
"Q" (DATA)
You have only one chance to save
them, now. Send them to your
ship!
RIKER
You'll let me beam them?
"Q" (DATA)
(shakes head)
Send them the same way as I do.
I've given you that power.
Geordi comes scrambling INTO VIEW.
"Q" (DATA)
(continuing)
Do you understand? I've given
you the power of the "Q".
(demonstrates with
sweeping gesture)
Use it!
Worf and Troi come INTO VIEW too.
42 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Riker becomes aware of someone scrambling toward him.
It's Data, the real Data using his own body. "Q" has
gone. CAMERA JIGGLES WITH ANOTHER MAJOR PHASER HIT.
"Q" (V.O.)
(echo chamber)
Use your power!
With little other choice, Riker makes a hand gesture --
causing FLASHES OF BLINDING LIGHT in which
Data, Geordi, Troi and Worf DISAPPEAR. On Riker's
stunned expression:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
43 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The bridge is empty -- the displays and readouts are
still frozen. The ambient noise is still absent. SLOW
PUSH IN to Tasha sitting on the bench beside Riker's
position. Head in hands, she stares at the floor.
Suddenly the room noise changes and on the SOUND her
head comes up.
44 WIDER ANGLE ON THE BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The display screens are alive. All the bridge's
ambient SOUNDS are back. Tasha looks over to Picard's
Ready Room.
45 READY ROOM DOOR
Picard STEPS OUT. He too has heard the change. He
walks to his Command position.
PICARD
Take the Conn, Lieutenant.
Tasha rises.
46 ANGLE ON PICARD
He sits and touches his arm-panel.
PICARD
Engineering -- this is the bridge.
ENGINEER'S COM VOICE
Engineering here, sir.
PICARD
Are all systems back on line?
ENGINEER'S COM VOICE
Back on line, sir? They were
never off.
47 ANGLE ON TASHA
at the Conn position.
TASHA
Captain, you had better look at
this.
Picard walks over to Tasha.
48 ANGLE ON TASHA AND PICARD
He looks at the readout.
TASHA
There has been no interruption
in course or speed. Both have
remained constant. Captain -- it's
as though we never stopped.
Picard straightens up.
PICARD
We never did. "Q" suspended time.
49 WIDE ANGLE - MAIN BRIDGE
FLASHES OF LIGHT and the members of the bridge crew
REAPPEAR except for Riker. Alive and unharmed.
50 INTERCUT ANGLES OF CREW
All of them are naturally disoriented -- the shock of
the experience cannot be instantly thrown off.
TASHA
Where's Commander Riker?
They look around.
WORF
He was with us.
GEORDI
He must still be on the planet.
(to Picard)
We were under attack by... by
animal things...
PICARD
Animal things?
GEORDI
Animal things in uniform, sir...
(quails at Picard's
expression)
Which I think Data could probably
explain better, sir.
As Picard turns to Data, the android decides he wants
no part of this.
DATA
You may find it aesthetically
displeasing, sir. I could just
file a computer report on that...
TROI
(interrupting)
Sir, the important thing right
now is why is Commander Riker
missing?
PICARD
Understood, Counselor, but Will
is almost certainly safe...
(troubled)
... at least "safe" in a physical
sense. "Q" has an interest in
him... in fact, "Q"'s entire visit
has something to do with our
first officer.
TROI
And Spider-Man as well, sir.
PICARD
I wish I knew why. "Q" became
interested in Commander Riker at Farpoint.
As for Spider-Man?
(shakes head)
I've no idea what it means.
(to the others)
Meanwhile, we must proceed with our
rescue mission...
51
53 EXT. DESERT
Empty -- no Riker. But there are footprints in the sand
indicating a direction toward which is a jagged rock
formation on the otherwise unbroken sandscape.
54 ANGLE AT ROCK FORMATION
REVEALING Riker who has managed to find himself a
little shade. He sits, leans back against a rock.
Then, starts to laugh. It is a deep, satisfying laugh
from one who has just been let in on a cosmic joke.
"Q" (O.S.)
Something amuses you?
Riker looks up.
55 ANGLE UP ON "Q" - RIKER'S POV (OPTICAL)
Standing on a ledge above Riker, heavily back-lit by
the two suns. (If possible, formed here by two
brightly illuminated OUT-OF-FOCUS balls as described
earlier.) We'll see more clearly in a moment also that
"Q" wears rank and uniform identical to Riker's.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Perhaps you would share the joke
with me?
56 ANGLE ON RIKER
as "Q" moves down into TWO SHOT. Riker eyes "Q" for
a long beat, then:
RIKER
The joke is you, you silly son
of a bitch.
"Q" glares at Riker who now seems confident and at ease
about something.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Strange gratitude from one who
has been granted a gift beyond
any human dream. How can you not
appreciate being able to send your
friends back to their ship...
(the sweeping gesture)
... or sending the soldiers back to
the "nothingness" from which they
came?
"Q" takes a beat, sits on a piece of rock next to
Riker, leans toward him confidentially.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(continuing)
Certainly, you understand that
at this moment you can send
yourself back to your ship... or
to Earth, or change your shape
and become anything else you
want to be...
RIKER
(interrupting;
strongly)
What do you need, "Q"?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
"Need?"
RIKER
You want something from us, "Q".
Desperately! What is it?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Want something from you foolish,
fragile, non-entities? Careful,
Riker, you're beginning to sound
like your captain.
RIKER
(grins)
Now that's a compliment, "Q".
But it's not an answer.
Stung by this, "Q" comes to his feet, raising a hand
as if to make the gesture we've seen before... finds
Riker still smiling up at him. He turns, walks angrily
a few steps away, then a few back as if bringing his
anger under control.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(clipped; angry)
Riker... we have tried to offer
you a gift beyond all other
gifts... !
RIKER
... Out of the "goodness" of your
heart?
They exchange looks for a long, long moment. Then "Q"
seats himself again, and finally:
"Q" (COMMANDER)
After Farpoint, I returned to
where we exist... the "Q
Continuum."
RIKER
Which means exactly what?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(trace of annoyance)
The limitless dimensions of the
galaxy in which we exist. We
could hardly be capable of acting
in ways that seem so astonishing
to you... if we were limited to
the primitive dimensions in which
you live, dimensions which would
make us prisoners of time and
space.
RIKER
(beat; absorbing this)
What do you mean by we?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(more annoyance)
In our Continuum the terms we
and I mean much the same.
RIKER
I don't understand...
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Of course you don't, and you never
will until you become one of us.
RIKER
(reacting)
Until?... Would you mind going
over that again?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(nods)
If you'll stop interrupting me.
This really isn't the time to
teach you the true nature of the
universe.
(leans in again)
At Farpoint, we saw you as savages
only, and thought to frighten you
into scurrying back to your
system. We discovered instead,
that you are an unusual creature
in your own limited ways... ways
which in time may not be so
limited.
RIKER
(nods)
We're growing. Something about
us compels us to learn,
explore...
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(nods)
The human compulsion. And,
unfortunately, for us, a force
that will grow stronger century
after century, eon after eon...
RIKER
Eons! Have you any idea how far
we'll advance?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Perhaps in a future you cannot
yet conceive... even beyond us.
And so, we must know more about
the human condition. We have
selected you, Riker, to become
part of the "Q"... to bring that
human need and hunger to us so
that we may understand it.
RIKER
(ponders, then)
I... suppose you mean that as a
compliment, "Q"... or maybe it's
my limited mind...
(stands)
... but... to become part of you?!
I don't even like you!
"Q" looks at Riker, seeming amused.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
You're going to miss me!
"Q" makes the sweeping gesture and it produces the
familiar BLINDING LIGHT FLASH in which "Q" DISAPPEARS.
And almost immediately, the startled VOICES of the
bridge crew, with Riker whirling in that direction:
TROI
Oh, no!
GEORDI
Come on, not again!
58 GROUP SHOT
where the entire bridge crew, including Picard and
WESLEY, find themselves facing a line of the French
uniformed "animal soldiers," who menace the Enterprise
people, ATTACHING LONG AND DEADLY-LOOKING BAYONETS ONTO
THEIR MUSKETS, clearly intending to use them.
WESLEY
(totally confused)
What's happening, Commander Riker?
I was sitting in school...
TASHA
(interrupting)
My phaser's gone. Worf, are you
armed?
Worf checks, shakes his head, but nevertheless he and
Tasha move to place themselves between the bridge crew
and the danger. Picard has moved quickly to Riker.
Brant moves to the back of the group, unarmed and
afraid.
PICARD
Where is "Q"? If you have any
answer to this, Number One...
Interrupted by an animal soldier lifting a bugle,
blowing the OLD FRENCH ATTACK CALL. A SNARL AND ROAR
from an animal soldier with sergeant's stripes and the
line of soldiers advance, bayonets leveled at the
bridge crew.
59 SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE ON WORF
moving forward to take on the entire attack line. He
moves fast, dodges a bayonet, trips, then a second
animal soldier slashes him in the back with a bayonet,
and Worf goes down in a SPURT OF RED BLOOD.
60 SPECIAL EFFECT ANGLE ON WESLEY and then
BRANT as they FREEZE, shocked.
WESLEY
Worf!
Then, the animal soldier who got Worf, pivots fast,
leaps at Wesley... and skewers the boy through the
middle.
Brant
(screams)
61 ANGLE ON RIKER
Shocked, wildly angered!
RIKER
NO! DAMN IT, DAMN IT TO HELL... !
He makes the sweeping gesture he's learned.
62 WIDE ANGLE (OPTICAL)
as Riker's gesture creates a smaller version of the
METALLIC GRID. IT APPEARS between where the bridge
Crew has instinctively retreated and the advancing line
of animal soldiers, blocking them completely. Picard
REACTS strongly to what Riker just did.
PICARD
Riker, you... you did that?!
RIKER
And that's not all!!
Grimly, angrily, Riker makes the sweeping gesture even
more strongly, and the ENTIRE SCENE IS FILLED WITH
BLINDING LIGHT.
63 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - TIGHT ANGLE ON WESLEY (OPTICAL)
Wesley APPEARS, suddenly feeling at his torso where
he was just stabbed. He's no longer hurt. Worf ENTERS
SHOT, also whole in body.
64 ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING PICARD AND OTHERS
Picard looking at Riker almost disbelievingly.
PICARD
That grid, their wounds... only
the "Q" could do that...
He cuts off his words, becoming aware of the formidable
expression Riker's face.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
65 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
with the Disaster Planet in far distance ahead of the
starship -- a small ball seen from here.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41591.4.
Twelve minutes out from Quadra
Sigma III where the survivors of
an underground disaster
desperately need our help. Aboard
the Enterprise...
66 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker, Troi, Data, Geordi, Tasha, Worf and Brant at their
positions. Riker's features showing the strain of
what has happened, he makes little eye-contact with
the bridge crew and they appear equally uncertain of
how to handle him.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... First Officer William T. Riker
needs help nearly as badly. But
this is a subject so far out of
my experience... out of any human's
experience.
Riker has made for the captain's Ready Room, EXITS into
it.
67 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Riker CROSSING IN and coming to a halt in front of
Picard's desk. Picard waves him to a seat, almost
angrily.
PICARD
Will, how the hell do I advise
you what to do?!
Riker looks up sharply at the angry tone... then
understands it, nods.
RIKER
No one has ever offered to
turn you into "God?"
PICARD
(snaps)
Don't joke with me! What the
"Q" has offered you has got to
be close to "immortality," Will.
They're not lying about
controlling space and time; we've
seen it in what they can do.
But...
RIKER
You've also seen it in what I can
do.
Picard leans across his desk toward Riker, intent.
PICARD
Of all things, that troubles me
most, Will. I’ve seen it in
Spider-Man, power that cannot
be leashed or denied. Are you strong enough
to refuse to use that power?
RIKER
Certainly!
PICARD
No matter how tempted? No matter
how difficult "Q" makes it?
DATA'S COM VOICE
In orbit of Quadra Sigma III, sir.
Ready to beam down rescue team
to underground emergency area.
RIKER
(beat; then firmly)
You have my word.
Picard and Riker get quickly to their feet, EXIT.
70 INT. PLANET DISASTER AREA
The Away Reserve Team MATERIALIZES. They are in a
passageway which has been severely damaged by
explosions. Water SPRAYS from the ceiling and is
already ankle deep on the floor. Data scans the area
with his tricorder.
DATA
This way.
They push ahead.
71 ANOTHER ANGLE - CORRIDOR
as they ARRIVE at a doorway. The door has been jammed
by the explosion. Data steps over and with his great
strength - rips the door off his hinges and clears the
opening.
The survivors are here. ABOUT A DOZEN of them, huddled
together on the far side. Beverly and her teams wade
through the water to them.
72 ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND SURVIVORS
As she kneels beside an injured WOMAN.
BEVERLY
You are going to be all right,
now.
RIKER
Where are the others?
The Woman shakes her head.
WOMAN
Gone. It's just us.
GEORDI
(urgent)
Commander!
Riker turns.
73 ANGLE ON GEORDI
CAMERA MOVES IN TO E.C.U. Geordi is staring at a pile
of rubble.
GEORDI
There's someone there!
76 ANGLE ON DATA
With great strength he moves huge rocks with
remarkable rapidity.
77 ANGLE ON GEORDI AND RIKER
They stand and look for a beat, then:
78 ANGLE ON DATA
as he lifts and carries the limp body of a child.
79 ANOTHER ANGLE
Beverly rushes over and while Data holds the child,
she quickly examines him.
80 ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND CHILD
From her expression it is clear the child is dead.
All of her skill will not help.
BEVERLY
She's dead. If we'd only gotten
here a little sooner... !
81 ANGLE ON RIKER
He steps closer. A dead child. A moment of truth.
DATA
Sir, if you indeed have "Q"'s
power...
83 ANGLE ON RIKER
He is fighting his emotions.
84 ANGLE INCLUDING BEVERLY
Puzzled.
BEVERLY
I don't understand. Can you
bring her back to life?
RIKER
(long beat)
No!
84A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
88 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker, followed by Data and Geordi, EXIT the turbolift.
Riker CROSSES to Picard. Troi is watching Riker with
such intensity she doesn't seem to be breathing.
RIKER
As soon as it's convenient
Captain, I insist on a meeting
with you and your staff.
There is about Riker now a little of the force, the
power, the arrogance of "Q". Modified by the man
himself -- but he is definitely carrying himself with
more presence.
89 ANGLE ON PICARD
It's as though he's been expecting this since the
incident with "Q".
90 ANOTHER ANGLE RIKER AND PICARD
The others are watching this exchange, curious about
how Picard will respond.
PICARD
As soon as we are secure from the
rescue operation, we'll meet in
the Conference Room.
RIKER
Thank you.
Riker turns, stalks to the turbolift. Troi gives him
a look of apprehension.
PICARD
Counselor?
TROI
Power -- immense. Frightening.
I can't read the intent -- but
there is terrible anger in him.
Off Picard's reaction:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
91 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker is already there, sits brooding. Picard ENTERS
with Data, Troi, Geordi, Tasha and Worf. As Picard
seats himself:
PICARD
We'll confer on the bridge here
if no one...
Without looking in that direction, Riker gestures
Picard to be silent and, surprised, Picard hesitates
during which Riker turns toward the others.
RIKER
The bridge is fine since I've
called the entire staff...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Correction, Number One; knowing
the decision you face, I've
permitted you this gathering.
Riker seems genuinely amused by Picard's correction,
as if yielding to a bright but headstrong child. Riker
nods, uses a gentle tone.
RIKER
Of course, Jean-Luc.
Riker looks up startled to see Beverly and Wesley ENTER
bridge from the turbolift.
RIKER
(continuing)
This meeting isn't for you,
Wesley!
WESLEY
Why not, sir? You helped make
me a bridge officer...
(corrects self)
... an acting ensign.
Looking from one to the other.
RIKER
All right, he stays. The first
thing he'll hear is... because I've
been given unusual powers, I'm
not suddenly a monster. Except
for those abilities, and I don't
yet know how far they go... I'm
the same William T. Riker you've
always known.
There's a long silence, no one speaking up.
RIKER
(continuing)
Well? Everyone still looks
uncomfortable.
PICARD
Perhaps we're all remembering the
old saying... "power corrupts... "
RIKER
... "and absolute power corrupts
absolutely." Do you believe I
haven't thought of that, Jean-Luc?
PICARD
And have you noticed that you and
I are now on a first-name basis?
A flicker of surprise on Riker's features indicates
he really hasn't.
PICARD
(continuing)
Will, something has happened to
you already...
RIKER
In what way? Haven't you seen
how much I've regretted not saving
that child? Captain, using the
"Q" power to save her might not
have been wrong!
(to bridge crew)
No more than it was wrong to save
the rest of you from those soldier
things.
PICARD
Let's keep in mind that particular
danger was invented by "Q".
TROI
What we represent to the "Q",
Will, are lowly animals, tormented
into performing for their
amusement...
RIKER
Actually, they think highly of
us, Troi. We have a quality
of... of growth which they
admire...
GEORDI
Or fear?
PICARD
Number One, we've learned that
the "Q" power does not admire
us... "Q" has muddled your mind
somehow.
RIKER
It's your mind that troubles me,
Captain. Don't you understand
his incredible gift to me?
"Q" (BROTHER) (O.S.)
Are these truly your "friends,"
Brother?
92 ANOTHER ANGLE
All whirl toward the VOICE. It comes from a far corner
of the bridge where a Figure stands with its back to
us. "Q" turns now, revealing himself draped in what
is recognizable even in this century as the somber
robes of something like the Franciscan Holy Order --
and "Q" is playing it to the hilt with gentle voice,
kindliness shining from his face, fingers pointed
together as in prayer. He CROSSES IN to stand with
Riker, head bowed in humility.
"Q" (BROTHER)
Let us pray for understanding,
for compassion, for...
PICARD
(moving to "Q")
Let us do no such damned thing!
(pulls at "Q"'s robes)
What is this need of yours for
costumes? Have you no identity
of your own?
"Q" (BROTHER)
(softly; gently)
I come in search of truth.
The expression on Riker's face reveals that he is
growing somewhat uncomfortable with this continuation
of masquerade.
PICARD
You come in search of what
humanity is!
"Q" has withdrawn a large cross symbol from his robes
as if warding off Picard's words.
"Q" (BROTHER)
I forgive your blasphemy...
PICARD
(indicates "Q" to Riker)
Can't you see it, Number One?
He's nothing but a flim-flam man!
That's what he's been since his
first appearance at Farpoint!
WORF
(to Data)
Flim-flam?
"Q" (BROTHER)
(to Picard)
You offer Riker jealousy! What
I offer him is clearly beyond your
comprehension!
(turning to the others
one by one)
How can you claim friendship for
Riker while obstructing his way
to the greatest adventure ever
offered a human?!
PICARD
(alerted)
"Obstruct him?" Then it's not
yet certain? He's not yet
committed?
"Q" (BROTHER)
(quickly, loudly;
overlapping last line)
The truly evil part of this is
your jealousy, Captain.
(to Riker)
You love each one of your people!
Demonstrate it! You have the
power to leave each of them with
a gift proving your affection.
Riker isn't sure of this. He looks to Picard
inquiringly, but speaks a bit thickly at times.
RIKER
There'd be no... harm, would there,
if I, if I gave them something
I know they'd like?
Picard's next few expressions are a study in a change
of decision. His first instinct is to recommend
against it... and he almost voices it. But then, Picard
begins to suspect that this may, in fact, give Riker
a chance to understand the human effect of near-godlike
power.
"Q" (BROTHER)
How touching. A plea to his
former captain.
(watching Picard)
"May I please give some happiness
to my friends, sir? Please sir?"
PICARD
(beat)
In fact... I authorize and support
that idea, Riker.
(to the crew)
And please cooperate with him,
if you wish.
TROI
(troubled; cautioning)
Are you certain, sir? If...
PICARD
I'm quite certain, Counselor.
(to Riker)
By all means, demonstrate your
gifts of affection.
Troi is clearly still nervous about this. Data too.
"Q" (BROTHER)
(eyeing Picard)
Remarkable! He rises now above
jealousy.
93 ANGLE EMPHASIZING RIKER
turning to his friends.
RIKER
Don't be frightened. There is
no way I could harm any one of
you. Shall I guess your dreams?
BEVERLY
(quickly)
Leave now, Wesley!
RIKER
No! Wesley, I may know best of
all.
(smiles at Wesley)
Our friendship, our long talks...
BEVERLY
No, please... !
94 EMPHASIZING WESLEY AND RIKER (OPTICAL)
RIKER
(to Wesley)
Have your favorite wish, my young
friend!
With a LIGHT FLASH, "WESLEY" becomes a handsome young
Starfleet officer of about 25 years.
95 INTERCUT OTHERS
Their REACTIONS. Their surprise is complete. On a
very intimate level that concerns themselves, this
seems godlike power they are witnessing. Picard, on
the other hand, seems to be analyzing, measuring, what
is happening.
GEORDI
Hey Wes, you've grown into a very
good looking guy!
Tasha gives a "definitely" to that sentiment. Troi
is concerned about Beverly who seems stunned as she
walks nearer her son, scrutinizing him closely. Data
gives Picard a puzzled "what are you up to" look.
Picard appears to be holding his breath as he
anticipates further developments.
96 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Riker is eyeing Data now.
RIKER
Data...
DATA
(forcefully shaking
head)
No!
RIKER
It's what you've always wanted,
Data to become human!
Data almost says "yes," but then:
DATA
Yes, sir, that is true. But I
never wanted to compound one
illusion with another. It might
seem real to "Q" -- even you,
sir... but it would not be so to
me. Was it not one of the
Captain's favorite authors who
wrote, "This above all, to thine
own self be true?"
(beat)
Sorry, Commander, I must decline.
Riker turns to Geordi. As he moves to him and removes
the VISOR, unobtrusively handing it to Geordi:
RIKER
Well, my friend, I know what you
want. Welcome to the wonderful
world of vision.
Geordi looks around in awe. His eyes come to rest on
Tasha.
GEORDI
You're as beautiful as I imagined,
and more.
RIKER
Then we can throw the VISOR away?
Geordi slowly replaces the VISOR over his eyes.
GEORDI
I think not, sir. The price is
a little high for me. I don't
like who I would have to thank.
I can still steer the ship with
this.
97 ANGLE EMPHASIZING WESLEY AND BEVERLY
as Beverly appraises the new form of her son.
BEVERLY
If you accept this new you,
Wesley, you'll lose wonderful
times, so many important
experiences...
98 EMPHASIZING WORF (OPTICAL)
as Riker moves to inspect him in turn.
RIKER
And Worf, who wants nothing...
WORF
Except honor and my duty
fulfilled.
RIKER
(interrupting)
Proud warrior Worf, without a
single tie to his own kind...
In a LIGHT FLASH, it's not Worf who changes but someone
else who APPEARS at his feet -- a Klingon warrioress.
Her eyes flash as she looks up at her man Worf, an arm
encircles him at the knees -- her other arm holds a
Klingon weapon -- a kligat -- as she looks around, sees
nothing but sliens. Then moving with surprising speed,
she comes to her feet and lashes out with her weapon
at Troi, who is the person nearest. Worf moves quickly
too, takes the blow intended for Troi, SLAMS the
warrioress down. In Klingon tradition, she flattens
herself to the floor and crawls, SNARLING to embrace
Worf's feet.
WORF
(whirling to Riker)
No! She is from a world now alien
to me. I have no place in my life
for this now!
99 ANGLE ON WESLEY
moving to Riker. His voice is that of an adult male.
WESLEY
Mister Riker...
(shakes head)
... it's too soon for this...
RIKER
If it's because your mother
objects...
WESLEY
No, I'd just like to get there
on my own. Honest!
Picard is now looking very pleased... both with himself
for estimating this correctly, and with his people for
their common sense. Riker sees and understands.
RIKER
How did you know, sir? I feel
like such... such an idiot!
PICARD
Quite right, you should!
RIKER
But it was... such a pleasure to
have been able to do those things.
As "Q" PASSES, Picard blocks his path.
PICARD
It's all over "Q". You have no
further business here.
"Q" (BROTHER)
Human, you have just destroyed
yourself... !
PICARD
But only after you've paid off
your wager, "Q".
"Q" (BROTHER)
I recall no wager!
PICARD
I'm sure your fellow "Q" remember
you agreed to never trouble our
species again. Just as they're
aware you've failed to tempt a
human to join you. So, "Q", I
strongly suspect you have some
explaining of your own to do...
A sudden MAJOR FLASH OF BRILLIANT LIGHT... wiping out
the entire SCENE for a moment. Then WE SEE REVEALED
the bridge crew exactly as we saw them when this ACT
began. "Q" is no longer there -- Wesley is fifteen
again -- Worf is without his warrioress -- Tasha is
the familiar security chief. And all are at their duty
positions, with Wesley assisting Data at Ops, Beverly
standing near Picard.
100 ANOTHER ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD
Everyone is speechless. Then, Picard breaks the
silence.
PICARD
Extraordinary! "Q" sought to
discover the distinguishing
characteristic of humanity and
never learned what Coleridge
said: "It must be the possession
of a soul within us that makes
the difference."
GEORDI
Sir... we show the same "hole" in
time again. Our instruments say
we've just now beamed up from our
rescue mission.
DATA
How can the "Q" handle time and
space so well, and us so badly?
PICARD
Perhaps we'll discover some day
that time and space are simpler
than the human equation.
(toward Riker)
No coordinates laid in, Number
One?
RIKER
Uh... yes, sir.
(toward Helm)
You have my coordinates, Mister
La Forge.
Geordi gives Wesley a look, and a nod. Wesley calls
it out eagerly.
WESLEY
Zero-zero-eight, Mark,
three-three-nine, sir.
PICARD
(nods)
Engage!
101 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it MOVES AWAY from us.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
1 EXT. ENTERPRISE IN SPACE (OPTICAL)
The great ship streaks through space at warp speed.
2 INT. ND CORRIDOR
Two crewmembers, their arms loaded with supplies, race
along the corridor. They pass DOCTOR CRUSHER in the
corridor.
3 NEW ANGLE
Beverly checks her Staff as they pass with emergency
medical packets on way to turbolift.
BEVERLY
Include a burn unit with each
kit. On arrival, identify the
most critically injured and
beam them up to Cargo Bay Six...
PICARD'S COM VOICE
(interrupting)
Doctor Crusher, this is the
Captain.
BEVERLY
(touching wall panel)
Doctor Crusher here.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Additional information. The
number of colonists at the site
is five hundred-four - including
thirty-eight children.
4 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
PICARD is in his Command chair, TROI to his left. WORF
at the Aft Station. GEORDI has the Conn, DATA on Ops.
TASHA at Tactical, BRANT in background.
4 CONTINUED:
The tension level is very high. The mission is urgent.
As Picard answers, RIKER ENTERS from the turbolift,
CROSSES the bridge and takes his position.
PICARD
So far nothing more than the
initial message. Explosion -
cause unknown - many injured.
Are you prepared, Doctor?
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
We believe so, sir.
GEORDI
Captain, we are now at warp nine
point one.
DATA
Which will bring us into the
Quadra Sigma System in three
point two hours.
Riker takes his position.
RIKER
Captain, I have a schematic of
the explosion site. It suggests
the cause as a methane-like gas
seeping in underground...
TROI
(with alarm)
Captain, I am...
5 ANGLE ON TROI
Her face is full of apprehension.
TROI
I am sensing what we encountered
months ago...
Interrupted by the SOUND of the BRIDGE ALARM.
6 ANGLE ON PICARD
He turns. KLAXON HONKING - LIGHTS FLASHING.
7 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER - PICARD'S POV (OPTICAL)
The Main Viewer SHIMMERS as an unusual SHINING,
SPARKLING GRID SHAPE APPEARS, seeming to stretch across
the whole of the galaxy ahead of them.
8 ANGLE ON PICARD (OPTICAL)
He recognizes the shape - he has seen it before en
route to Farpoint Station.
DATA
The "Q" Entity, sir? It is
identical to the grid we
encountered when...
WORF
It reads solid, sir. If we hit
it... !
PICARD
Not now, damn it, "Q"...
(to Helm)
Emergency full stop!
GEORDI
Yes, sir.
TASHA
Shields and deflectors, up, sir.
The familiar SHIMMERING GRID on the viewer is now very
close to the Enterprise. Forward movement stops.
8A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN FRONT OF GRID (OPTICAL)
8B INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
GEORDI
Now reading full stop, sir.
The words overlapped by something akin to ROLLING
THUNDER, accompanied by a BRILLIANT and SUSTAINED FLASH
which becomes RAPIDLY ROTATING, BLINDINGLY BRILLIANT,
DIAMOND-BLUE LIGHT. While there is no hard-edged
Shape, it is of about the same volume of a very large
man.
8B CONTINUED:
"Q" (V.O.)
(amplified and powerful)
Humans, I thought by now you
would have scampered back to your
own little star system.
PICARD
(waits, then)
If this is "Q" I'm addressing,
our vessel and crew are on a
mission of rescue where a group
of badly injured...
"Q" (V.O.)
(interrupting)
We of the "Q" have studied our
recent contact with you... and
are impressed. We have much to
discuss, including perhaps the
realization of your most
impossible dreams.
The expressions of the bridge crew reveal they are
intrigued by this statement... and in the potential
of the "Q" entity to do remarkable things, however
annoying its actions in the past. Even Picard takes
a moment to absorb this.
PICARD
(sarcastically)
However intriguing we may find
that to be, we are now in the
midst of an urgent journey. Once
we have completed that...
"Q" (V.O.)
(louder; angrier)
You will abandon that mission,
Captain. My business with you
takes precedence!
9 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON BRIDGE CREW
Reflections of the BRILLIANT DIAMOND-BLUE LIGHT on
their faces as they look ahead toward this newest Shape
of "Q". They shield their eyes from it.
9 (CONTINUED:)
"Q" (V.O.)
If my magnificence blinds you,
then perhaps something more
familiar...
An explosion of sudden HISSING SOUNDS startles the
bridge crew into expressions of mixed surprise, fear
and loathing.
10 OMITTED
11 ANGLE ON "Q" SERPENT
A WRITHING SNAKE with snapping fangs, continuing mixed
HISSING, DARTS toward them from whence came the "Q"
light image.
12 REVERSE ANGLE
Both Worf and Tasha vaulting down onto the Command
deck, instinctively drawing phasers as they try to
position their own bodies between the frightening
Snake-thing and the bridge Crew, as we:
13 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON TASHA AND WORF
First one, then the other, discover phasers
inoperative. The snake head seems an instant away from
fanging them...
WORF
Damn, the phasers are useless!
PICARD (V.O.)
"Q", STOP THIS!
14 EMPHASIZING PICARD AND RIKER
on their feet.
PICARD
Stop this and we agree to talk
for a moment!
At which WE SEE the reflection of a familiar BRILLIANT
LIGHT FLASH, blinding Picard and Riker again. Then
as they lower their protecting hands, they REACT at
the sight of:
15 ANGLE EMPHASIZING "Q"
in the full-dress uniform of a Starfleet ADMIRAL.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Starfleet Admiral "Q" at your
service!
PICARD
You are not a Starfleet admiral,
"Q"...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Neither am I an Aldebaran serpent,
Captain. But you accepted me as
such.
Riker nods, a hint of the irony of this on his
features.
RIKER
He's got us there, Captain.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(nods)
The redoubtable Commander Riker
whom I noticed before. You seem
to find this amusing.
RIKER
I might, if we weren't trying
to rescue a group of suffering
and dying humans who...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Your species is always suffering
and dying...
PICARD
(interrupting)
No, Lieutenant Worf... !
16 ANGLE TO INCLUDE WORF
trying to ease himself into a clear line of fire
toward "Q". He freezes at Picard's order, eases his
almost hidden small phaser back into his belt.
PICARD
You'll make no move against him
unless I order it.
"Q" smiles toward Worf.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Pity. You might have learned
an interesting lesson. Tsk, a
macro head, a micro brain.
Worf is obviously unrepentant. Picard, thinking
furiously, tries another direction.
PICARD
"Q", you said you had the
realization of "some impossible
dreams" to offer us. Once this
rescue is complete, I'll listen
seriously to whatever proposal
you wish to make and then, subject
to it being acceptable....
16 CONTINUED:
"Q" bursts into what sounds like genuine LAUGHTER.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
"... subject to" your foolish
human values? Picard, why do
you people distrust me so?
Picard starts to open his mouth, shuts it.
DATA
Sir, if...
Picard shakes his head, forcing Data into silence...
also clearly including the rest of his bridge crew in
this.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Yes, Captain, it is best they
don't answer that. But you... you,
Picard, I grant the freedom to
answer me honestly. Why do you
distrust me so?
PICARD
"Q", right now humans may be
dying because you...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(angry now)
SPEAK! Why do you distrust me?
PICARD
(beat)
Why? On our first meeting, "Q",
you seized my vessel, condemned
all humans as savages and on that
charge, you tried us in a
post-atomic twenty-first century
court of horrors where you
attacked my people... then you
again seized my vessel...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
How that angers you: "Seized my
vessel, seized my vessel... "
PICARD
(without pause, ignoring
this)
... and then proceeded to interfere
with our Farpoint mission,
threatening to convict us as
ignorant savages if, in dealing
with complex and powerful
life-forms, we made the slightest
error... and when you failed even
there...
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(interrupting)
At that point, the "Q" became
interested in you.
(turns to include bridge
crew)
Cannot some of you understand your
incredible good fortune?!
(to Picard, mimicking)
"Seized my vessel, seized my
vessel... " The complaint of a
closed mind too accustomed to
military privileges.
(to Riker)
But you, Riker, and I remember
you well, what do you make of my
offer?
RIKER
I stand with my Captain.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
(smiles)
Of course, you do. Commendable
loyalty.
(indicating bridge crew;
to Riker)
And what of these others? Since
humanity now interests us, how
shall we come to know them better?
RIKER
We don't have time for these
games.
"Q" (ADMIRAL)
Ah, yes! A game... for interest's
sake, a deadly game. To the game!
And, at a wave of "Q"'s hand, the entire bridge crew
except for Picard... DISAPPEARS, leaving Picard alone
on the bridge.
17 EXT. PLANET PLAIN (OPTICAL)
The bridge crew are standing in approximately their
previous bridge positions on a treeless planet plain.
They have just been snatched from their ship, their
captain and they are understandably confused and
uncertain except for Tasha and Worf whose security
orientation have them immediately combat ready. This
place is bright, hot. Spider-Man is also there, and appears
surprised to be in-costume. He’s perched behind all of
them, adhering to a boulder.
18 EMPHASIZING RIKER
looking up.
19 RIKER POV - TWIN SUNS (OPTICAL)
close together (avoiding the necessity of
twin-shadows), apparently rotating about each other.
Both suns are brilliant but the smaller sun, about
one-quarter the size of the larger, is not quite as
brilliant as the large one.
20 BACK TO EXT. PLAIN (OPTICAL)
Data and Geordi, looking up too, move in next to Riker.
DATA
Obviously a Class-M world, gravity
and oxygen within our limits...
GEORDI
... but a twin sun? Where are
we?
DATA
Considering the power
demonstrated by "Q" the last
time... Anywhere! Assuming this
place even exists.
RIKER
But this won't be boring. If
"Q"'s anything, he's imaginative.
(to the others)
Apparently the captain wasn't
meant to be with us here.
(looks at Spider-Man)
And what are you--?
TASHA
(overlapping)
Sir! Over here... !
21 ANGLE INCLUDING "Q"
who stands where a rock formation has previously hidden
him. He is now wearing a French MARSHAL'S uniform,
circa the Napoleonic Wars. As Riker, very curious,
moves toward "Q", CAMERA MOVES AND PANS TO REVEAL also
a headquarters-type campaign tent of the same era,
complete with shade canopy and transportable field
furniture. "Q" indicates three such chairs with a small
table which holds a pair of tall, cool drinks.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Join me, Riker. Spider-Man. A good game
needs rules and planning...
Riker hesitates.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(continuing)
Wasn't it your own Hartley who
said "Nothing reveals humanity
so well as the games it plays?"
(smiles; nods)
Almost right. Actually, you
reveal yourselves best in how you
play.
Data has moved in next to Riker and speaks quietly.
DATA
Sir, what he has in mind could
provide us with vital information.
Riker nods, moves toward the campaign tent. Spider-Man
warily complies as well. "Q" sits,
waves invitingly toward the empty seats. He also picks
up one of the tall drinks and WE CAN HEAR ICE CLINKING
in it.
22 RIKER, SPIDER-MAN AND "Q"
as Riker inspects the remaining drink without sitting
yet, picks it up and looks a question toward Troi.
Spider-Man lifts his mask above his mouth and
tastes it. Riker looks questioningly at Spider-Man.
TROI
(registering surprise)
What I sense is... pleasure, sir. And confusion--
Spider-Man does not know why he’s here any
more than you do.
Riker sips the drink, registers surprise too.
RIKER
Incredible. I was just thinking
of an old-fashioned lemonade...
SPIDER-MAN
I was thinking of my A--
something similar.
22 CONTINUED:
"Q" (MARSHAL)
... and so it became that. An
excellent thirst quencher; it
becomes quite hot out on this
plane.
RIKER
What about my people?
"Q" makes a waving gesture.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Whatever they want, of course!
23 ANGLE INCLUDING OTHERS
REACTING to the fact they suddenly have tall drinks
of various colored liquids in their hands. Hesitantly,
a couple of them sip. Worf, however, tilts his glass
pouring the contents out onto the sand. Strangely,
this pleases "Q"'s sense of humor.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
The rigid Klingon code! Drink
not with thine enemy!
(to Riker)
Which explains something of why
you defeated them.
RIKER
Still arguing the human past?
Perhaps you're not that original.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Au contraire! It is the human
future that now intrigues us... and
should concern you most. Of all
species, yours cannot abide
stagnation... change is at the
heart of what you are. But
change into what? That's the
question!
DATA
That is what humans call a truism.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(annoyed)
Meaning "hardly original"...
DATA
Do you mean to suggest that humans
should all attain to the abilities of
Spider-Man?
RIKER
(hint of humor)
You're probably barking up the
wrong tree with that one. And
while we're at it...
SPIDER-MAN
Hey!
RIKER
(indicating "Q"'s
uniform, tent)
... this isn't part of any human
future...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
True, I borrowed this from your
stodgy captain's mind. It is
dressing for the game we will play
and games require boundaries,
dangers, rewards, familiar
settings, that sort of thing.
Riker looks over "Q"'s uniform, the tent, etc.
RIKER
It's not that familiar to me...
(calls)
Data?
DATA
(stepping in)
It is from Europe's Napoleonic
Era, sir, late eighteenth, early
nineteenth centuries. This is
a campaign headquarters tent, his
uniform is that of a French Army
marshal, the...
RIKER
(to "Q")
And a marshal outranks even an
admiral...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Would I go from a Starfleet
admiral to anything less?
RIKER
(hint of a smile now)
Of course, you wouldn't.
(indicates)
But Napoleonic equipment on an
alien planet with dual suns... ?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
As you've said, I'm nothing if
not imaginative. And the game
should reflect that. Shall it
be a test of strength?
Meaningless, since you have none.
A test of intelligence? Equally
meaningless...
(eyeing Riker)
A game needs risk... Something
to win; something to lose.
SPIDER-MAN
(standing up) If you want to test my
strength, pal, you might be surprised!
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(sighs) I had high hopes for you, my boy.
You’ll find that there’s always someone stronger
than you. Sit down! You don’t
scare me, and you can’t.
RIKER
If we must play a game, what would
we win?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
The greatest possible future you
can imagine!
(beat; thinking)
Which, of course, requires
something totally disastrous if
you lose!
(thinking again)
The point of this game will be
whether any of you can stay
alive.
24 EMPHASIZING TASHA AND WORF (OPTICAL)
As the others react, Worf responds:
WORF
If your "game" is fair, we will.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
For shame, Lieutenant Worf.
Fairness is a human concept.
(to Riker)
Think imaginatively! It will,
in fact, be completely unfair...
TASHA
You've gone too far.
She is drawing her phaser but "Q" is pointing his
finger at her just as fast.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Game penalty!
Visible even in this bright desert setting, a FLASH
OF LIGHT in which Tasha DISAPPEARS. Reacting, Riker
turns angrily to "Q".
RIKER
Where is she, "Q"? You can forget
your game if...
Spider-Man decks Q right onto the ground; in a FLASH OF LIGHT,
Q is standing again, rubbing his jaw.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
That hurt!
SPIDER-MAN
And it’ll hurt again if you don’t--
Riker holds his arm out in front of Spider-Man in
order to get him to back down, but he doesn’t have
time. Visible even in this bright desert setting, a FLASH
OF LIGHT in which Spider-Man DISAPPEARS. Reacting, Riker
turns angrily to "Q".
"Q" (MARSHAL)
To use a twentieth century term,
Commander, they’re in a... a "penalty
box." Where they can remain
unharmed unless one of you merits
a penalty.
(smiles)
Unfortunately, there are only two
penalty boxes. If any of you should
be sent there... dear Tasha is first in
line to give up the box to you. I had
high hopes for Spider-Man, but it
appear he needs some time to…mature.
GEORDI
And... where does Tasha go once one of
us is in your penalty box?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(to Geordi)
Into "nothingness."
(looking to the Others,
individually)
I entreat you to carefully obey
the rules of the game. The only
one who can destroy your Tasha
now... is you.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
25 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
but not in orbit of a planet. Instead, it seems to
be traveling somewhere at what we know as normal warp
speed. MUSIC only.
26 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard at a turbolift, touches the door, without
effect. Then he tries to bang it.
PICARD
Turbolift Control, do you read?
This is the captain.
No response. Picard CROSSES to his bridge position,
touches his panel controls.
PICARD
(continuing)
Engineering, this is the bridge.
No response.
PICARD
(continuing)
Security -- this is the Captain.
Again -- nothing.
PICARD
(continuing)
Computer?
(waits)
Computer on!
The computer still doesn't respond. He's cut off.
Isolated. Picard touches his insignia.
PICARD
(continuing)
Captain's log...
The SOUND is wrong, indicating that:
PICARD
(continuing)
Damn... I can't even make a log
entry.
TASHA (O.S.)
I wish I could help you, Captain.
27 WIDER ANGLE
as Picard, startled, whirls toward the VOICE. It is
Tasha who stands at her familiar position at security.
Unusually for Tasha, she is showing some strain over what
has been happening.
PICARD
What... what are you doing here?
TASHA
I... well, this sounds strange,
but... I'm in the penalty box.
PICARD
You're what?!
TASHA
(tightly)
In "Q"'s penalty box. As I said,
it sounds strange but it
definitely isn't. Somehow I know
that one more penalty... by me or
anyone... and I'm gone.
Curious and concerned, Picard moves toward her.
PICARD
Gone?
TASHA
(distraught)
Please do not keep reminding
me...
PICARD
I'm sorry...
TASHA
(instantly)
No, I'm sorry. It's so
frustrating to be controlled like
this...
There's a half-SOB in the ordinarily strong and
controlled VOICE and Picard REACTS to it.
PICARD
Lieutenant...Tasha... it's all
right...
TASHA
(astonished and angry)
What the hell am I doing? Crying?
PICARD
Don't worry. There's a new ship's
standing order.
(smiles)
When in a penalty box, some tears
are permitted.
Tasha looks up warmly, comforted by this.
TASHA
Captain... if you weren't a
captain...
"Q" (MARSHAL) (O.S.)
(interrupting)
Consorting with lower rank
females, Captain?
28 ANGLE TO INCLUDE "Q"
seated in the Captain's Command position. He smiles,
enjoys having startled Picard this way.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Destructive to discipline, they
say. But you are, after all, only
human, eh?
Picard has made his way down to the Command level where
he now looks "Q" and the uniform over.
PICARD
A marshal of France? Ridiculous!
"Q" (MARSHAL)
One takes what jobs he can get.
For example, your log entries.
(looks up)
Starship log, stardate today...
This is "Q", speaking for Captain
Jean-Luc Picard, who we consider
too bound by Starfleet custom and
tradition to be useful in this
activity.
PICARD
But who proved himself a
resourceful opponent when he
defeated you at Farpoint.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(with "log" tone again)
The Enterprise is now helpless,
stuck like an Earth insect in
amber while its bridge crew plays
out a game whose real intent...
(aiming this at Picard)
... is to test if their first
officer is worthy of the greatest
gift the "Q" can offer.
Picard takes a long moment to absorb this, then he
nods.
PICARD
So, you're taking on Riker this
time.
(smiles)
Excellent! He'll defeat you just
as I did!
"Q" (MARSHAL)
A wager on that, Captain? Your
command of this starship
against... ?
PICARD
Against your staying out of
humanity's path... forever! Done?
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Done!
(smiles)
And you've already lost, Picard.
You see, Riker is to be offered
something impossible to reject.
(speaking slowly, with sarcastic venom)
Besides that…you can’t even beat
Spider-Man.
"Q" storms toward the Ready Room.
29 EXT. THE PLANET
All but Worf are there, studying a point on the distant
terrain.
RIKER
Geordi, can you still see Worf?
GEORDI
(nods)
I'd see the freckles on his nose,
if he had them, sir. He's at the
third ridge now...
TROI
The third ridge... ?
GEORDI
Moving well.
(distracted)
Oh, oh!
(peers)
Good, he sees them. They look
like sentries, sir.
30 EXT. THIRD RIDGE
Worf -- the trained warrior -- approaches with caution.
It is indeed a bivouac area. Worf can hear the unseen
men SPEAKING IN FRENCH. He edges closer.
31 ANOTHER ANGLE
Worf pushes through the rocks, FREEZES.
32 ROCKS - WORF'S POV
Two sentries are walking a perimeter patrol. They are
dressed as Bonapartist soldiers, carrying muskets.
As they approach, WE SEE their uniforms look genuine
enough... but then we make out their faces! Humanoid
but with fearsome, fanged, unhuman features.
33 BIVOUAC AREA
Worf reacts at this. Then he moves as close as he
dares. Those in the camp appear to be preparing for
a battle. But where human troops would be yelling,
these soldiers are GROWLING, SNARLING. Over that, the
CLATTER of caissons -- equipment being assembled.
34 ANGLE ON WORF
He hears a squad approaching -- slips back among the
rocks and DISAPPEARS.
35 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard comes to the door. "Q" is sitting in the chair
with his back to Picard.
PICARD
"Q", listen to me. You seem to
have some need of humans...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
Or concern regarding them.
PICARD
Whichever it is, why try to solve
it through this confrontation
with us? Why not a simple direct
explanation, a statement of what
you seek? Why these games?
"Q" turns and WE SEE he is holding Picard's complete
works of William Shakespeare. He indicates the books.
"Q" (MARSHAL)
I'm surprised you have to ask when
your human Shakespeare has
already explained it so well.
PICARD
Indeed he did, "Q". But careful
you don't depend too much on any
single viewpoint he...
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(ignoring this;
interrupting)
Why these games I require of you?
A pity you're not familiar with
the contents of your own library.
Hear this, Picard, and reflect.
(lifts book, quotes from
it)
"All the galaxy's a stage, and... "
PICARD
(interrupts)
"All the galaxy?" "All the
world's a stage... "
"Q". (MARSHAL)
Oh, you know that one? Then how
about, "... Life's but a walking
shadow, a poor player that struts
and frets his hour upon the stage,
and then is heard no more. It
is a tale told by an idiot, full
of sound and fury, signifying
nothing."
PICARD
And so you say, how we respond
to a game tells you more about
us than our real life, a "tale
told by an idiot."
(still amused)
Interesting, "Q".
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(lifts book)
Shall I quote from Hamlet?
PICARD
No. I know Hamlet. And what
he said with irony I prefer to
say with conviction.
(quoting)
"What a piece of work is man!
How noble in reason! How infinite
in faculty. In form, in moving,
how express and admirable. In
action, how like an angel. In
apprehension, how like a god... "
"Q" (MARSHAL)
(upset; interrupting)
You don't really see your species
like that?!
PICARD
I see us one day becoming that,
"Q". Is that what concerns you?
"Q" comes angrily to his feet, SLAMMING the volume down
and DISAPPEARING in a FLASH. A startled and puzzled
Picard watches him go, then turns to ponder the meaning
of "Q"'s anger.
36 EXT. PLANET
The same plain. Riker, Troi and Data watch as Geordi
scans the distant desert ridges.
RIKER
Can you still see Worf?
GEORDI
(shakes head)
It's hard to keep him in sight,
sir. But the soldiers there...
they've formed a "skirmishing
line," I think you'd call it... and
they're headed this way.
RIKER
Carrying ancient powder and ball
muskets?
GEORDI
That's what their weapons look
like, sir.
DATA
Muskets are appropriate to the
1790 - 1800 French army uniform.
(shakes head)
But it is hardly a "weapon" by our
standards, sir. A lead ball
propelled by gunpowder -- one-hundred
meters at most with any accuracy...
GEORDI
Against phasers? Just one of our
hand phasers could finish off
an entire regiment of them.
RIKER
Except for one thing...
(to Troi)
That hardly sounds like "Q",
giving us an advantage like that.
(puzzling; then
REACTING)
Unless...
37 SPECIAL EFFECT ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Suspecting some kind of trap, Riker draws his own hand
phaser. He checks its setting, aims it well away from
everybody else... touches the trigger lightly for just
an instant.
The PHASER SOUND precedes an EXPLOSION OF DUST AND DIRT
at a point where Riker was aiming the phaser. It
causes a hole at least the size of one caused by a
howitzer shell.
38 ANOTHER ANGLE
It also produces another effect -- the FORM of Worf,
large phaser in hand, propelling itself INTO SCENE,
rolling to a stop where the Klingon is aiming his
phaser, seeking the away team's "assailant" which fired
the phaser blast.
WORF
(growling it)
DROP YOUR WEAPONS!
He aims this way, then that, attempting quickly to spot
who or whatever is menacing his friends.
RIKER
(exhibits hand phaser)
I'm afraid it was me, Worf.
Making certain our phasers still
operate.
Worf returns his own phaser.
WORF
A warrior's reaction.
GEORDI
Incredible, Worf! You came out
of nowhere!
RIKER
(to Worf)
Report. What did you find?
WORF
Sir... what they're wearing may
be old Earth uniforms, but what's
inside those uniforms isn't human
at all. More like vicious animal
things.
GEORDI
Oh, oh! Good old "Q". But how
can even the most savage animal
forms threaten us if they're armed
with the equivalent of popguns?
39 SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Geordi, who has been scanning the terrain, now turns
to Riker.
GEORDI
They're moving in fast, sir.
40 ANGLE EMPHASIZING RIKER
Data's back is to him.
RIKER
Data, if you've got a theory on
what's happening...
Data's FORM turns, REVEALING IT IS NOT DATA AT ALL,
BUT "Q" -- and using his own VOICE despite the Data
clothing.
"Q" (DATA)
Think fast, Commander Riker.
(REACTING; pointing)
And move fast... !
"Q" is pointing at two of the fierce-looking Animal
Things in French uniform that have moved INTO SIGHT,
aiming their "muskets" at Geordi who jumps behind a
rock. TWO PHASER BLASTS. The first hits a rock near
Geordi. The second BLASTS A BROAD FURROW in the
desert floor.
RIKER
That's no "musket!"
41 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
"Q" is REACTING to the uniformed Animal Things seeing
them now, swinging its weapon in their direction.
Riker spins, FIRES HIS PHASER, DEMATERIALIZING both
his opponents.
RIKER
(anxiously)
Troi, Geordi, Worf... !
"Q" pulls him down as:
"Q" (DATA)
You have only one chance to save
them, now. Send them to your
ship!
RIKER
You'll let me beam them?
"Q" (DATA)
(shakes head)
Send them the same way as I do.
I've given you that power.
Geordi comes scrambling INTO VIEW.
"Q" (DATA)
(continuing)
Do you understand? I've given
you the power of the "Q".
(demonstrates with
sweeping gesture)
Use it!
Worf and Troi come INTO VIEW too.
42 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Riker becomes aware of someone scrambling toward him.
It's Data, the real Data using his own body. "Q" has
gone. CAMERA JIGGLES WITH ANOTHER MAJOR PHASER HIT.
"Q" (V.O.)
(echo chamber)
Use your power!
With little other choice, Riker makes a hand gesture --
causing FLASHES OF BLINDING LIGHT in which
Data, Geordi, Troi and Worf DISAPPEAR. On Riker's
stunned expression:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
43 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The bridge is empty -- the displays and readouts are
still frozen. The ambient noise is still absent. SLOW
PUSH IN to Tasha sitting on the bench beside Riker's
position. Head in hands, she stares at the floor.
Suddenly the room noise changes and on the SOUND her
head comes up.
44 WIDER ANGLE ON THE BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The display screens are alive. All the bridge's
ambient SOUNDS are back. Tasha looks over to Picard's
Ready Room.
45 READY ROOM DOOR
Picard STEPS OUT. He too has heard the change. He
walks to his Command position.
PICARD
Take the Conn, Lieutenant.
Tasha rises.
46 ANGLE ON PICARD
He sits and touches his arm-panel.
PICARD
Engineering -- this is the bridge.
ENGINEER'S COM VOICE
Engineering here, sir.
PICARD
Are all systems back on line?
ENGINEER'S COM VOICE
Back on line, sir? They were
never off.
47 ANGLE ON TASHA
at the Conn position.
TASHA
Captain, you had better look at
this.
Picard walks over to Tasha.
48 ANGLE ON TASHA AND PICARD
He looks at the readout.
TASHA
There has been no interruption
in course or speed. Both have
remained constant. Captain -- it's
as though we never stopped.
Picard straightens up.
PICARD
We never did. "Q" suspended time.
49 WIDE ANGLE - MAIN BRIDGE
FLASHES OF LIGHT and the members of the bridge crew
REAPPEAR except for Riker. Alive and unharmed.
50 INTERCUT ANGLES OF CREW
All of them are naturally disoriented -- the shock of
the experience cannot be instantly thrown off.
TASHA
Where's Commander Riker?
They look around.
WORF
He was with us.
GEORDI
He must still be on the planet.
(to Picard)
We were under attack by... by
animal things...
PICARD
Animal things?
GEORDI
Animal things in uniform, sir...
(quails at Picard's
expression)
Which I think Data could probably
explain better, sir.
As Picard turns to Data, the android decides he wants
no part of this.
DATA
You may find it aesthetically
displeasing, sir. I could just
file a computer report on that...
TROI
(interrupting)
Sir, the important thing right
now is why is Commander Riker
missing?
PICARD
Understood, Counselor, but Will
is almost certainly safe...
(troubled)
... at least "safe" in a physical
sense. "Q" has an interest in
him... in fact, "Q"'s entire visit
has something to do with our
first officer.
TROI
And Spider-Man as well, sir.
PICARD
I wish I knew why. "Q" became
interested in Commander Riker at Farpoint.
As for Spider-Man?
(shakes head)
I've no idea what it means.
(to the others)
Meanwhile, we must proceed with our
rescue mission...
51
53 EXT. DESERT
Empty -- no Riker. But there are footprints in the sand
indicating a direction toward which is a jagged rock
formation on the otherwise unbroken sandscape.
54 ANGLE AT ROCK FORMATION
REVEALING Riker who has managed to find himself a
little shade. He sits, leans back against a rock.
Then, starts to laugh. It is a deep, satisfying laugh
from one who has just been let in on a cosmic joke.
"Q" (O.S.)
Something amuses you?
Riker looks up.
55 ANGLE UP ON "Q" - RIKER'S POV (OPTICAL)
Standing on a ledge above Riker, heavily back-lit by
the two suns. (If possible, formed here by two
brightly illuminated OUT-OF-FOCUS balls as described
earlier.) We'll see more clearly in a moment also that
"Q" wears rank and uniform identical to Riker's.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Perhaps you would share the joke
with me?
56 ANGLE ON RIKER
as "Q" moves down into TWO SHOT. Riker eyes "Q" for
a long beat, then:
RIKER
The joke is you, you silly son
of a bitch.
"Q" glares at Riker who now seems confident and at ease
about something.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Strange gratitude from one who
has been granted a gift beyond
any human dream. How can you not
appreciate being able to send your
friends back to their ship...
(the sweeping gesture)
... or sending the soldiers back to
the "nothingness" from which they
came?
"Q" takes a beat, sits on a piece of rock next to
Riker, leans toward him confidentially.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(continuing)
Certainly, you understand that
at this moment you can send
yourself back to your ship... or
to Earth, or change your shape
and become anything else you
want to be...
RIKER
(interrupting;
strongly)
What do you need, "Q"?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
"Need?"
RIKER
You want something from us, "Q".
Desperately! What is it?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Want something from you foolish,
fragile, non-entities? Careful,
Riker, you're beginning to sound
like your captain.
RIKER
(grins)
Now that's a compliment, "Q".
But it's not an answer.
Stung by this, "Q" comes to his feet, raising a hand
as if to make the gesture we've seen before... finds
Riker still smiling up at him. He turns, walks angrily
a few steps away, then a few back as if bringing his
anger under control.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(clipped; angry)
Riker... we have tried to offer
you a gift beyond all other
gifts... !
RIKER
... Out of the "goodness" of your
heart?
They exchange looks for a long, long moment. Then "Q"
seats himself again, and finally:
"Q" (COMMANDER)
After Farpoint, I returned to
where we exist... the "Q
Continuum."
RIKER
Which means exactly what?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(trace of annoyance)
The limitless dimensions of the
galaxy in which we exist. We
could hardly be capable of acting
in ways that seem so astonishing
to you... if we were limited to
the primitive dimensions in which
you live, dimensions which would
make us prisoners of time and
space.
RIKER
(beat; absorbing this)
What do you mean by we?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(more annoyance)
In our Continuum the terms we
and I mean much the same.
RIKER
I don't understand...
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Of course you don't, and you never
will until you become one of us.
RIKER
(reacting)
Until?... Would you mind going
over that again?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(nods)
If you'll stop interrupting me.
This really isn't the time to
teach you the true nature of the
universe.
(leans in again)
At Farpoint, we saw you as savages
only, and thought to frighten you
into scurrying back to your
system. We discovered instead,
that you are an unusual creature
in your own limited ways... ways
which in time may not be so
limited.
RIKER
(nods)
We're growing. Something about
us compels us to learn,
explore...
"Q" (COMMANDER)
(nods)
The human compulsion. And,
unfortunately, for us, a force
that will grow stronger century
after century, eon after eon...
RIKER
Eons! Have you any idea how far
we'll advance?
"Q" (COMMANDER)
Perhaps in a future you cannot
yet conceive... even beyond us.
And so, we must know more about
the human condition. We have
selected you, Riker, to become
part of the "Q"... to bring that
human need and hunger to us so
that we may understand it.
RIKER
(ponders, then)
I... suppose you mean that as a
compliment, "Q"... or maybe it's
my limited mind...
(stands)
... but... to become part of you?!
I don't even like you!
"Q" looks at Riker, seeming amused.
"Q" (COMMANDER)
You're going to miss me!
"Q" makes the sweeping gesture and it produces the
familiar BLINDING LIGHT FLASH in which "Q" DISAPPEARS.
And almost immediately, the startled VOICES of the
bridge crew, with Riker whirling in that direction:
TROI
Oh, no!
GEORDI
Come on, not again!
58 GROUP SHOT
where the entire bridge crew, including Picard and
WESLEY, find themselves facing a line of the French
uniformed "animal soldiers," who menace the Enterprise
people, ATTACHING LONG AND DEADLY-LOOKING BAYONETS ONTO
THEIR MUSKETS, clearly intending to use them.
WESLEY
(totally confused)
What's happening, Commander Riker?
I was sitting in school...
TASHA
(interrupting)
My phaser's gone. Worf, are you
armed?
Worf checks, shakes his head, but nevertheless he and
Tasha move to place themselves between the bridge crew
and the danger. Picard has moved quickly to Riker.
Brant moves to the back of the group, unarmed and
afraid.
PICARD
Where is "Q"? If you have any
answer to this, Number One...
Interrupted by an animal soldier lifting a bugle,
blowing the OLD FRENCH ATTACK CALL. A SNARL AND ROAR
from an animal soldier with sergeant's stripes and the
line of soldiers advance, bayonets leveled at the
bridge crew.
59 SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE ON WORF
moving forward to take on the entire attack line. He
moves fast, dodges a bayonet, trips, then a second
animal soldier slashes him in the back with a bayonet,
and Worf goes down in a SPURT OF RED BLOOD.
60 SPECIAL EFFECT ANGLE ON WESLEY and then
BRANT as they FREEZE, shocked.
WESLEY
Worf!
Then, the animal soldier who got Worf, pivots fast,
leaps at Wesley... and skewers the boy through the
middle.
Brant
(screams)
61 ANGLE ON RIKER
Shocked, wildly angered!
RIKER
NO! DAMN IT, DAMN IT TO HELL... !
He makes the sweeping gesture he's learned.
62 WIDE ANGLE (OPTICAL)
as Riker's gesture creates a smaller version of the
METALLIC GRID. IT APPEARS between where the bridge
Crew has instinctively retreated and the advancing line
of animal soldiers, blocking them completely. Picard
REACTS strongly to what Riker just did.
PICARD
Riker, you... you did that?!
RIKER
And that's not all!!
Grimly, angrily, Riker makes the sweeping gesture even
more strongly, and the ENTIRE SCENE IS FILLED WITH
BLINDING LIGHT.
63 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - TIGHT ANGLE ON WESLEY (OPTICAL)
Wesley APPEARS, suddenly feeling at his torso where
he was just stabbed. He's no longer hurt. Worf ENTERS
SHOT, also whole in body.
64 ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING PICARD AND OTHERS
Picard looking at Riker almost disbelievingly.
PICARD
That grid, their wounds... only
the "Q" could do that...
He cuts off his words, becoming aware of the formidable
expression Riker's face.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
65 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
with the Disaster Planet in far distance ahead of the
starship -- a small ball seen from here.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41591.4.
Twelve minutes out from Quadra
Sigma III where the survivors of
an underground disaster
desperately need our help. Aboard
the Enterprise...
66 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker, Troi, Data, Geordi, Tasha, Worf and Brant at their
positions. Riker's features showing the strain of
what has happened, he makes little eye-contact with
the bridge crew and they appear equally uncertain of
how to handle him.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... First Officer William T. Riker
needs help nearly as badly. But
this is a subject so far out of
my experience... out of any human's
experience.
Riker has made for the captain's Ready Room, EXITS into
it.
67 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Riker CROSSING IN and coming to a halt in front of
Picard's desk. Picard waves him to a seat, almost
angrily.
PICARD
Will, how the hell do I advise
you what to do?!
Riker looks up sharply at the angry tone... then
understands it, nods.
RIKER
No one has ever offered to
turn you into "God?"
PICARD
(snaps)
Don't joke with me! What the
"Q" has offered you has got to
be close to "immortality," Will.
They're not lying about
controlling space and time; we've
seen it in what they can do.
But...
RIKER
You've also seen it in what I can
do.
Picard leans across his desk toward Riker, intent.
PICARD
Of all things, that troubles me
most, Will. I’ve seen it in
Spider-Man, power that cannot
be leashed or denied. Are you strong enough
to refuse to use that power?
RIKER
Certainly!
PICARD
No matter how tempted? No matter
how difficult "Q" makes it?
DATA'S COM VOICE
In orbit of Quadra Sigma III, sir.
Ready to beam down rescue team
to underground emergency area.
RIKER
(beat; then firmly)
You have my word.
Picard and Riker get quickly to their feet, EXIT.
70 INT. PLANET DISASTER AREA
The Away Reserve Team MATERIALIZES. They are in a
passageway which has been severely damaged by
explosions. Water SPRAYS from the ceiling and is
already ankle deep on the floor. Data scans the area
with his tricorder.
DATA
This way.
They push ahead.
71 ANOTHER ANGLE - CORRIDOR
as they ARRIVE at a doorway. The door has been jammed
by the explosion. Data steps over and with his great
strength - rips the door off his hinges and clears the
opening.
The survivors are here. ABOUT A DOZEN of them, huddled
together on the far side. Beverly and her teams wade
through the water to them.
72 ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND SURVIVORS
As she kneels beside an injured WOMAN.
BEVERLY
You are going to be all right,
now.
RIKER
Where are the others?
The Woman shakes her head.
WOMAN
Gone. It's just us.
GEORDI
(urgent)
Commander!
Riker turns.
73 ANGLE ON GEORDI
CAMERA MOVES IN TO E.C.U. Geordi is staring at a pile
of rubble.
GEORDI
There's someone there!
76 ANGLE ON DATA
With great strength he moves huge rocks with
remarkable rapidity.
77 ANGLE ON GEORDI AND RIKER
They stand and look for a beat, then:
78 ANGLE ON DATA
as he lifts and carries the limp body of a child.
79 ANOTHER ANGLE
Beverly rushes over and while Data holds the child,
she quickly examines him.
80 ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND CHILD
From her expression it is clear the child is dead.
All of her skill will not help.
BEVERLY
She's dead. If we'd only gotten
here a little sooner... !
81 ANGLE ON RIKER
He steps closer. A dead child. A moment of truth.
DATA
Sir, if you indeed have "Q"'s
power...
83 ANGLE ON RIKER
He is fighting his emotions.
84 ANGLE INCLUDING BEVERLY
Puzzled.
BEVERLY
I don't understand. Can you
bring her back to life?
RIKER
(long beat)
No!
84A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
88 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker, followed by Data and Geordi, EXIT the turbolift.
Riker CROSSES to Picard. Troi is watching Riker with
such intensity she doesn't seem to be breathing.
RIKER
As soon as it's convenient
Captain, I insist on a meeting
with you and your staff.
There is about Riker now a little of the force, the
power, the arrogance of "Q". Modified by the man
himself -- but he is definitely carrying himself with
more presence.
89 ANGLE ON PICARD
It's as though he's been expecting this since the
incident with "Q".
90 ANOTHER ANGLE RIKER AND PICARD
The others are watching this exchange, curious about
how Picard will respond.
PICARD
As soon as we are secure from the
rescue operation, we'll meet in
the Conference Room.
RIKER
Thank you.
Riker turns, stalks to the turbolift. Troi gives him
a look of apprehension.
PICARD
Counselor?
TROI
Power -- immense. Frightening.
I can't read the intent -- but
there is terrible anger in him.
Off Picard's reaction:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
91 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker is already there, sits brooding. Picard ENTERS
with Data, Troi, Geordi, Tasha and Worf. As Picard
seats himself:
PICARD
We'll confer on the bridge here
if no one...
Without looking in that direction, Riker gestures
Picard to be silent and, surprised, Picard hesitates
during which Riker turns toward the others.
RIKER
The bridge is fine since I've
called the entire staff...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Correction, Number One; knowing
the decision you face, I've
permitted you this gathering.
Riker seems genuinely amused by Picard's correction,
as if yielding to a bright but headstrong child. Riker
nods, uses a gentle tone.
RIKER
Of course, Jean-Luc.
Riker looks up startled to see Beverly and Wesley ENTER
bridge from the turbolift.
RIKER
(continuing)
This meeting isn't for you,
Wesley!
WESLEY
Why not, sir? You helped make
me a bridge officer...
(corrects self)
... an acting ensign.
Looking from one to the other.
RIKER
All right, he stays. The first
thing he'll hear is... because I've
been given unusual powers, I'm
not suddenly a monster. Except
for those abilities, and I don't
yet know how far they go... I'm
the same William T. Riker you've
always known.
There's a long silence, no one speaking up.
RIKER
(continuing)
Well? Everyone still looks
uncomfortable.
PICARD
Perhaps we're all remembering the
old saying... "power corrupts... "
RIKER
... "and absolute power corrupts
absolutely." Do you believe I
haven't thought of that, Jean-Luc?
PICARD
And have you noticed that you and
I are now on a first-name basis?
A flicker of surprise on Riker's features indicates
he really hasn't.
PICARD
(continuing)
Will, something has happened to
you already...
RIKER
In what way? Haven't you seen
how much I've regretted not saving
that child? Captain, using the
"Q" power to save her might not
have been wrong!
(to bridge crew)
No more than it was wrong to save
the rest of you from those soldier
things.
PICARD
Let's keep in mind that particular
danger was invented by "Q".
TROI
What we represent to the "Q",
Will, are lowly animals, tormented
into performing for their
amusement...
RIKER
Actually, they think highly of
us, Troi. We have a quality
of... of growth which they
admire...
GEORDI
Or fear?
PICARD
Number One, we've learned that
the "Q" power does not admire
us... "Q" has muddled your mind
somehow.
RIKER
It's your mind that troubles me,
Captain. Don't you understand
his incredible gift to me?
"Q" (BROTHER) (O.S.)
Are these truly your "friends,"
Brother?
92 ANOTHER ANGLE
All whirl toward the VOICE. It comes from a far corner
of the bridge where a Figure stands with its back to
us. "Q" turns now, revealing himself draped in what
is recognizable even in this century as the somber
robes of something like the Franciscan Holy Order --
and "Q" is playing it to the hilt with gentle voice,
kindliness shining from his face, fingers pointed
together as in prayer. He CROSSES IN to stand with
Riker, head bowed in humility.
"Q" (BROTHER)
Let us pray for understanding,
for compassion, for...
PICARD
(moving to "Q")
Let us do no such damned thing!
(pulls at "Q"'s robes)
What is this need of yours for
costumes? Have you no identity
of your own?
"Q" (BROTHER)
(softly; gently)
I come in search of truth.
The expression on Riker's face reveals that he is
growing somewhat uncomfortable with this continuation
of masquerade.
PICARD
You come in search of what
humanity is!
"Q" has withdrawn a large cross symbol from his robes
as if warding off Picard's words.
"Q" (BROTHER)
I forgive your blasphemy...
PICARD
(indicates "Q" to Riker)
Can't you see it, Number One?
He's nothing but a flim-flam man!
That's what he's been since his
first appearance at Farpoint!
WORF
(to Data)
Flim-flam?
"Q" (BROTHER)
(to Picard)
You offer Riker jealousy! What
I offer him is clearly beyond your
comprehension!
(turning to the others
one by one)
How can you claim friendship for
Riker while obstructing his way
to the greatest adventure ever
offered a human?!
PICARD
(alerted)
"Obstruct him?" Then it's not
yet certain? He's not yet
committed?
"Q" (BROTHER)
(quickly, loudly;
overlapping last line)
The truly evil part of this is
your jealousy, Captain.
(to Riker)
You love each one of your people!
Demonstrate it! You have the
power to leave each of them with
a gift proving your affection.
Riker isn't sure of this. He looks to Picard
inquiringly, but speaks a bit thickly at times.
RIKER
There'd be no... harm, would there,
if I, if I gave them something
I know they'd like?
Picard's next few expressions are a study in a change
of decision. His first instinct is to recommend
against it... and he almost voices it. But then, Picard
begins to suspect that this may, in fact, give Riker
a chance to understand the human effect of near-godlike
power.
"Q" (BROTHER)
How touching. A plea to his
former captain.
(watching Picard)
"May I please give some happiness
to my friends, sir? Please sir?"
PICARD
(beat)
In fact... I authorize and support
that idea, Riker.
(to the crew)
And please cooperate with him,
if you wish.
TROI
(troubled; cautioning)
Are you certain, sir? If...
PICARD
I'm quite certain, Counselor.
(to Riker)
By all means, demonstrate your
gifts of affection.
Troi is clearly still nervous about this. Data too.
"Q" (BROTHER)
(eyeing Picard)
Remarkable! He rises now above
jealousy.
93 ANGLE EMPHASIZING RIKER
turning to his friends.
RIKER
Don't be frightened. There is
no way I could harm any one of
you. Shall I guess your dreams?
BEVERLY
(quickly)
Leave now, Wesley!
RIKER
No! Wesley, I may know best of
all.
(smiles at Wesley)
Our friendship, our long talks...
BEVERLY
No, please... !
94 EMPHASIZING WESLEY AND RIKER (OPTICAL)
RIKER
(to Wesley)
Have your favorite wish, my young
friend!
With a LIGHT FLASH, "WESLEY" becomes a handsome young
Starfleet officer of about 25 years.
95 INTERCUT OTHERS
Their REACTIONS. Their surprise is complete. On a
very intimate level that concerns themselves, this
seems godlike power they are witnessing. Picard, on
the other hand, seems to be analyzing, measuring, what
is happening.
GEORDI
Hey Wes, you've grown into a very
good looking guy!
Tasha gives a "definitely" to that sentiment. Troi
is concerned about Beverly who seems stunned as she
walks nearer her son, scrutinizing him closely. Data
gives Picard a puzzled "what are you up to" look.
Picard appears to be holding his breath as he
anticipates further developments.
96 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Riker is eyeing Data now.
RIKER
Data...
DATA
(forcefully shaking
head)
No!
RIKER
It's what you've always wanted,
Data to become human!
Data almost says "yes," but then:
DATA
Yes, sir, that is true. But I
never wanted to compound one
illusion with another. It might
seem real to "Q" -- even you,
sir... but it would not be so to
me. Was it not one of the
Captain's favorite authors who
wrote, "This above all, to thine
own self be true?"
(beat)
Sorry, Commander, I must decline.
Riker turns to Geordi. As he moves to him and removes
the VISOR, unobtrusively handing it to Geordi:
RIKER
Well, my friend, I know what you
want. Welcome to the wonderful
world of vision.
Geordi looks around in awe. His eyes come to rest on
Tasha.
GEORDI
You're as beautiful as I imagined,
and more.
RIKER
Then we can throw the VISOR away?
Geordi slowly replaces the VISOR over his eyes.
GEORDI
I think not, sir. The price is
a little high for me. I don't
like who I would have to thank.
I can still steer the ship with
this.
97 ANGLE EMPHASIZING WESLEY AND BEVERLY
as Beverly appraises the new form of her son.
BEVERLY
If you accept this new you,
Wesley, you'll lose wonderful
times, so many important
experiences...
98 EMPHASIZING WORF (OPTICAL)
as Riker moves to inspect him in turn.
RIKER
And Worf, who wants nothing...
WORF
Except honor and my duty
fulfilled.
RIKER
(interrupting)
Proud warrior Worf, without a
single tie to his own kind...
In a LIGHT FLASH, it's not Worf who changes but someone
else who APPEARS at his feet -- a Klingon warrioress.
Her eyes flash as she looks up at her man Worf, an arm
encircles him at the knees -- her other arm holds a
Klingon weapon -- a kligat -- as she looks around, sees
nothing but sliens. Then moving with surprising speed,
she comes to her feet and lashes out with her weapon
at Troi, who is the person nearest. Worf moves quickly
too, takes the blow intended for Troi, SLAMS the
warrioress down. In Klingon tradition, she flattens
herself to the floor and crawls, SNARLING to embrace
Worf's feet.
WORF
(whirling to Riker)
No! She is from a world now alien
to me. I have no place in my life
for this now!
99 ANGLE ON WESLEY
moving to Riker. His voice is that of an adult male.
WESLEY
Mister Riker...
(shakes head)
... it's too soon for this...
RIKER
If it's because your mother
objects...
WESLEY
No, I'd just like to get there
on my own. Honest!
Picard is now looking very pleased... both with himself
for estimating this correctly, and with his people for
their common sense. Riker sees and understands.
RIKER
How did you know, sir? I feel
like such... such an idiot!
PICARD
Quite right, you should!
RIKER
But it was... such a pleasure to
have been able to do those things.
As "Q" PASSES, Picard blocks his path.
PICARD
It's all over "Q". You have no
further business here.
"Q" (BROTHER)
Human, you have just destroyed
yourself... !
PICARD
But only after you've paid off
your wager, "Q".
"Q" (BROTHER)
I recall no wager!
PICARD
I'm sure your fellow "Q" remember
you agreed to never trouble our
species again. Just as they're
aware you've failed to tempt a
human to join you. So, "Q", I
strongly suspect you have some
explaining of your own to do...
A sudden MAJOR FLASH OF BRILLIANT LIGHT... wiping out
the entire SCENE for a moment. Then WE SEE REVEALED
the bridge crew exactly as we saw them when this ACT
began. "Q" is no longer there -- Wesley is fifteen
again -- Worf is without his warrioress -- Tasha is
the familiar security chief. And all are at their duty
positions, with Wesley assisting Data at Ops, Beverly
standing near Picard.
100 ANOTHER ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD
Everyone is speechless. Then, Picard breaks the
silence.
PICARD
Extraordinary! "Q" sought to
discover the distinguishing
characteristic of humanity and
never learned what Coleridge
said: "It must be the possession
of a soul within us that makes
the difference."
GEORDI
Sir... we show the same "hole" in
time again. Our instruments say
we've just now beamed up from our
rescue mission.
DATA
How can the "Q" handle time and
space so well, and us so badly?
PICARD
Perhaps we'll discover some day
that time and space are simpler
than the human equation.
(toward Riker)
No coordinates laid in, Number
One?
RIKER
Uh... yes, sir.
(toward Helm)
You have my coordinates, Mister
La Forge.
Geordi gives Wesley a look, and a nod. Wesley calls
it out eagerly.
WESLEY
Zero-zero-eight, Mark,
three-three-nine, sir.
PICARD
(nods)
Engage!
101 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it MOVES AWAY from us.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
