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    FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN PLANET ORBIT (OPTICAL)

    A lovely blue and white planet, close to Earthlike in
    appearance.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
            Captain's log, stardate 41255.6.
            After delivering a party of Earth
            colonists to the Strnad solar
            system and providing...

2    CLOSER ON ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

    emphasizing the starship's line.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
                (continuing)
            ... them with all their basic
            necessities, we have discovered
            another Class M planet in the
            adjoining Rubicun star system.

3    INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)

    PICARD, TROI, WORF, BRANT and WESLEY on duty with replacement
    bridge crew, all examining the planet, as:

                    PICARD (V.O.)
                (continuing)
            We are now in orbit there, having
            determined it to be inhabited as
            well as unusually lovely. It
            is...

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - TEASER           2.

4    EMPHASIZING PICARD

                    PICARD (V.O.)
                (continuing)
            ... a pastoral world, which also
            shows evidence of learning and
            civilization. My first officer
            has taken an away team down to
            make contact and they are in the
            process of returning to the ship.

5    COMMAND AND HELM AREAS

    Picard looking to Troi.

                    PICARD
            Riker has sounded very enthused
            in his reports.

                    TROI
                (nods)
            He says the planet has life forms
            almost identical to us.

    Interrupted by Beverly who ENTERS, obviously with much
    on her mind.

                    BEVERLY
            Captain... !
                (sees she has
                 interrupted)
            Sorry, Troi.

    Troi smiles, beckons Beverly in.

                    TROI
            The Doctor has something much more
            important on her mind, Captain.

                    BEVERLY
                (frowns; to Troi)
            Please, Troi, do not pick up my
            feelings!

                    TROI
            Your feelings? All we need
            are ears.

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - TEASER           3.

5    CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
                (smiles to Beverly)
            You've been talking about it for
            days now... Shore leave for the
            crew.

    Beverly sees that her son Wesley has also thrown her
    a concerned look. She gives an apologetic nod to Troi.

                    BEVERLY
            I'm tired myself.
                (to Picard)
            Establishing that colony has
            exhausted the entire crew, sir.
            We're not a supply vessel.
            Settling all those people was a
            strain on everyone.

    RIKER interrupts by ENTERING with DATA, GEORDI, TASHA.
    They all register enthusiasm, giving the replacement
    crew nods, smiles, thumbs up gestures as they take over
    their positions. Riker has continued straight to
    Picard, acknowledging Troi and Beverly too.

                    PICARD
            Is it as good as your reports,
            Number One?

                    RIKER
                (enthused)
            Exactly per my reports, sir.
            Class M, so Earthlike, so
            beautiful, it will startle you!

                    BEVERLY
            It sounds wonderful for the
            children!
                (to Picard)
            The Holodecks are marvelous, of
            course, but nothing like giving
            them open space and fresh air...

    Beverly takes a simulated deep breath of air.

                    TASHA
            I've listed my report on their
            customs and laws, sir. Fairly
            simple, common sense things.

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - TEASER           4.

5    CONTINUED: (2)

                    GEORDI
            Wild in some ways, puritanical
            in others. Neat as pins,
            ultra-lawful, and making love at
            the drop of a hat.

                    TASHA
            Any hat.

                    PICARD
                (smile)
            But even the happiest report has
            its negatives. Let's start with
            them.

                    RIKER
                (grins)
            There are none, sir. Not that
            any of us can find.

                    DATA
            But there is a problem here, sir!

    Data is puzzling over readings at his station.

                    DATA
                (continuing)
            I do not understand this at all!

                    WORF
                (to Picard)
            It's the faulty reading I
            reported, sir.

                    TASHA
            Sensor technicians are working
            on it, sir. They've identified
            it as a "glitch" in the system.

    Picard turns back to Riker.

                    PICARD
            I take it you find no "glitch"
            at all in this planet, however.

                    TASHA
            If you approve shore leave, sir,
            we could start with a small group
            at first.

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - TEASER           5.

5    CONTINUED: (3)

                    PICARD
            Of course...
                (turns)
            Wesley, if we go, you will join
            the away team to evaluate this
            world as a place for young people
            to relax.

                    WESLEY
            Yes, sir!

    He glances at Beverly to note her smiling approval of
    this.  Brant seems a little disappointed that she will
    not get to go.  She bites her lip--the Captain has
    barely noticed she is on the bridge at all.

                    PICARD
            If all scans and observations
            confirm the reports...
                (nods)
            ... certainly I'll approve it.
                (beat)
            Let's hope it is not too good
            to be true.

                                    FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                         

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE           6.

                            ACT ONE                            

    FADE IN:

6    EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN PLANET ORBIT (OPTICAL)

    The same lovely planet.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
            We are in orbit of a planet
            designated Rubicun Three... and
            have found it to be the home of
            a life form who call themselves
            the Edo.

7    EXT. SURFACE OF RUBICUN THREE (OPTICAL)

    The planet is as described. We are at an inhabited
    part of it... clean, neat, the "streets" appearing more
    like a running track, bordered with flowers. The
    TRANSPORTER EFFECT brings in our new away team of Riker,
    Troi, Tasha, Worf and Wesley. In the near distance, a
    group of very human appearing people have seen them
    arriving and two of them turn and race in this direction.
    Worf is quickly aware of it and prepares to interpose
    himself protectively.

                    WORF
            Careful, sir...

                    RIKER
            It's all right, Lieutenant, these
            are the Edo we met.

8    ANGLE ON THE EDO

    ARRIVING at high speed. A young female and male who,
    like other Edo we'll meet, are both tall, full haired,
    with even white teeth, great bodies. They're also
    dressed in loose, sexy clothing and these two wear a
    silvery necklace indicating high rank. Riker is
    watching an attractive Edo woman, saying:

                    RIKER
            They certainly are... fit, right?

    Troi is looking at an Edo male.

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE           7.

8    CONTINUED:

                    TROI
            They certainly are.

                    RIVAN
            Health and happiness!

                    LIATOR
            A pleasant day to you!

    Troi gives Riker an even sharper second look as the Edo
    ARRIVE and RIVAN, the woman, gives Riker a close and
    rather intimate hands-on hug which, although it touches
    upon the sensual, also combines genuine friendship, too.

                    RIVAN
            You did return as promised!

    The man, LIATOR, is looking over Troi and Tasha with
    healthy interest. Like Rivan, although slim and very
    well muscled, he has a quiet dignity that fits well with
    this necklace-badge of leadership.

                    RIKER
            Rivan, Liator...
                (indicating)
            Also from our vessel is Troi...

                    LIATOR
            Slowly, slowly...
                (embraces Troi)
            I must also welcome this lovely
            one...
                (embracing Tasha)
            ... and this lovely one...

    Riker waits, watching with interest until Tasha
    disengages. She understands his look.

                    TASHA
                (smiles)
            My pleasure.

                    TROI
            Healthy sensuality, sir. I feel
            mainly happiness and friendship.

                    RIVAN
            And I welcome this huge one...
                (hugs and fondles Worf)
            ... oh, yes, yes...

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE           8.

8    CONTINUED: (2)

                    WORF
                (pleased)
            Nice planet!

    Rivan moves to Wesley, stops quizzically.

                    RIVAN
            But you are a young one. I do
            not know your custom regarding
            love.

    Wesley is clearly nervous, although intrigued too. He
    clears his throat:

                    WESLEY
            Uh... I guess... whatever you
            usually do...

    Rivan shows excellent taste, giving Wesley a "hug" but
    without any "extras."

                    RIKER
            Others would like to visit here
            too. If you'll tell us what
            limits you'd place on the
            number...

                    LIATOR
            Whatever pleases you. We can
            discuss it at the Council
            Chambers.

                    RIVAN
                (to Riker)
            Shall we go there now or remain
            and play?

                    RIKER
            Play?

                    RIVAN
            At love. Unless you don't enjoy
            that.
                (to Worf)
            Perhaps you do?

                    LIATOR
                (to Troi)
            And you? Yes, I can see that you
            do.

           STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE           9.

8    CONTINUED: (3)

                    WESLEY
            Listen, maybe I'll just go on
            ahead...

                    RIVAN
                (indicates Wesley)
            This is unfair to him.
                (to Wesley)
            We'll go to the Council Chambers.
            You'll find young people your age
            there.

                    WESLEY
                (warily)
            Well... I really can't make any
            promises...

                    LIATOR
                (laughs)
            You don't have to. Our rules are
            simple. No one does anything
            uncomfortable to them.

                    RIVAN
            Come! Our people will want to
            know you.

    Then she turns back, glancing at the more formal
    clothing worn by the humans.

                    LIATOR
            Rivan, perhaps they...can't...run.

                    WESLEY
                (to Riker)
            Can't run? Sure we can run, right
            sir?

                    RIKER
                (to the others)
            That's the custom here, running...
                (to Wesley)
            Right! Lead the way!

    Rivan, Liator, and Wesley LEAD OFF, the Others JOGGING
    AFTER them.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE          10.

9    TRUCKING - EMPHASIZING RIKER AND WORF

    who find themselves out in front of Tasha and Troi.

                    RIKER
            "When in Rome... ," eh?

                    WORF
            When where, sir?

    CAMERA HOLDS as the Group runs past.

9A   EXT. SECOND SCENIC LOCATION

    Rivan and Liator leading the Enterprise people along
    another lovely pathway where an elderly but very trim
    FIRST EDO CITIZEN and a pair of younger N.D. EDO
    CITIZENS see them coming and break into a run to join
    them. Lots of smiles and waves.

9B   TRUCKING - EMPHASIZING AWAY TEAM AND FIRST EDO CITIZZEN

    The Enterprise people very much taken with the joy and
    good health they're seeing. First Edo citizen notes
    Tasha's light complexion and amazon form.

                    FIRST EDO CITIZEN
            Good health to you!

                    TASHA
            Happiness to you!
                (to Troi)
            It's like an "Eden" here.

10   EXT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS

    A combination of conference and recreation facilities,
    lots of light and air and spectacularly healthy looking
    people in revealing but comfortable garb. SOUND of
    delighted ADULT LAUGHTER from inside the chambers too.
    Two adults and a child DEPART on the run, another older
    woman ARRIVES -- on the run too. She doesn't seem to
    be breathing very hard at all.

11   ANGLE ON RIKER AND TEAM

    ARRIVING on the run with their Edo companions. They
    haven't done too badly. Rivan stops, looks Riker and
    the Enterprise people over, then moves in and embraces
    Riker again.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE          11.

11   CONTINUED:

                    RIVAN
            Good health! I thought you might
            be out of breath.

    A SHRIEK from children at play, several Edo children
    race INTO SIGHT.

                    LIATOR
            Children, we've brought you a new
            friend!

                    FIRST EDO BOY
            Hello! Join us!

                    EDO GIRL
            Yes, please!

    Wesley joins the smiling children.

                    RIKER
                (grins)
            We may surprise you in a lot of
            ways.

12   INT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS

    The kind of place you'd like to visit. No particularly
    formalized furnishing plan -- it includes just about
    any way anyone would like to sit or loll. The same sort
    of revealing but sensible garb here too -- along with
    good humor. In fact, joy is what is mainly present
    here. Lots of fruit, nuts, food and drink selections.
    A MUSIC GROUP of Harpists in sight -- admittedly
    strange looking harps on which they compose, and now
    and then PLAY LILTING MUSIC which, like everything else,
    is not taken too seriously here either.

                    RIVAN
            Everyone! We've brought the
            visitors!

                    LIATOR
                (gesturing to away team)
            Please enjoy what we have!

13   EMPHASIZING ENTERPRISE PEOPLE

    as they are taken charge of with great hospitality.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE          12.

14   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN ORBIT (OPTICAL)

    The same lovely planet.

15   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

    as Data ENTERS bridge from the turbolift, strides
    rapidly toward his station, his face reflecting concern.

                    DATA
            I have traced it through all sensor
            channels, Captain! It is not a
            glitch... !

    Picard becomes alarmed at Data's tone, follows him to
    the Ops station where Data begins going over readings
    again.

                    DATA
                (continuing)
            ... or any other form of error or
            malfunction, sir.

                    GEORDI
            Confirmed by my readings, sir.
            It's like a "shadow something"...

                    DATA
            Exactly! As if it's not entirely
            in or out of our dimension.

                    PICARD
            "What" is, Commander?

    Data points off to front starboard of the vessel.

                    DATA
            Whatever is sitting out there
            without triggering our alarm
            relays, Captain.

                    PICARD
            Center Main Viewer on that area.

16   ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)

    as the IMAGE there shifts slightly, but REVEALS nothing
    but the planet and star background previously seen.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT ONE          13.

16   CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
                (to Data; continuing)
            I need more, Commander.

    Data seems stumped for a moment, then:

                    DATA
            Permission to go to hailing
            frequencies, sir?

    A puzzled Picard nods.

                    DATA
            Hailing frequencies open. On all
            frequencies and language forms,
            send...
                (beat)
            Enterprise to Object off our
            starboard bow. Request that you
            identify yourself!

    As suddenly, the "what" begins appearing -- A HUGE AND
    COMPLEX LOOKING OBJECT, A BIT SMALLER THAN THE
    ENTERPRISE. IT IS HALF-TRANSPARENT BUT PARTLY SOLID,
    TOO, AND VERY DEADLY LOOKING. A VESSEL? PERHAPS, BUT
    SEEMINGLY MORE, TOO. WE WILL LEARN THAT IT SOMEHOW
    EXISTS HERE AND IN ANOTHER CONTINUUM AT THE SAME TIME.
    At the moment it appears, the Enterprise RED ALERT with
    KLAXON comes on too.

                                    FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                         

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          14.

                            ACT TWO                            

    FADE IN:

17   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND MYSTERY OBJECT (OPTICAL)

    The partially transparent Mystery Object as described,
    positioned very close to the starship Enterprise. Its
    very nearness implies threat.

18   INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

    The Red Alert lights FLASHING, the KLAXON SOUNDING a
    couple more times, then going SILENT. The mystery
    object IMAGE is on the Main Viewer; Picard and the
    others are as we last saw them.

                    GEORDI
            Shields and deflectors up full,
            sir. Main phaser banks ready.

                    PICARD
            Hailing frequencies? Any reply?

                    DATA
                (puzzled)
            It was something unintelligible,
            Captain. Now running it through
            our logic and language circuits...

                    PICARD
            Have a real look at it, Geordi!

                    GEORDI
                (hurrying for the
                 turbolift)
            Aye, sir.

                    TASHA
            Sir, my sensors read it... well,
            as "half there." And it does
            look...

    She hesitates. Data finishes her thought.

                    DATA
            As if it's partly...transparent.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          15.

18   CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
            Data, what the hell is it?

    It is rather frightening to see Data turn to his
    Captain... slowly shake his head.

18A  INT. STARBOARD LOUNGE - (OPTICAL)

    Geordi ENTERING on a run, racing to the first large
    port, from which the mystery object/vessel thing can
    be seen from here too. He stands examining it. Then:

                    GEORDI
            Lieutenant La Forge to Captain.

                    PICARD'S COM VOICE
            Go ahead, La Forge. What can you
            make out?

                    GEORDI
            This is something I've never
            seen before, sir.

18B  INT. MAIN BRIDGE - COMMAND AREA - (OPTICAL)

    Picard intent upon:

                    GEORDI'S COM VOICE
            It's as if it isn't entirely in
            our dimension, sir.

                    PICARD
            Anything else?

                    GEORDI'S COM VOICE
            Negative, sir. It's something
            I don't understand.

                    DATA
                (to Picard)
            I have some information on its
            first transmission, sir. It
            translates as...
                (looks up)
            ... "stand by."

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          16.

18B  CONTINUED:

                    CONN CREWMEMBER
            Sir! Sensors show something
            emerging from that... that ship,
            if you want to call it that.

                    DATA
            Verified. Something very small...

19   EXT. SPACE - ON MYSTERY OBJECT (OPTICAL)

    REVEALING A TINY PINPOINT OF LIGHT having come out of
    the side of the mystery object (no hatchway visible)
    CROSSING orbital space toward the Enterprise.

20   INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

    Data watching Main Viewer.

                    DATA
            Getting smaller...

21   EXT. SPACE - ANGLE ON ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

    Still smaller now, the PINPOINT OF LIGHT moves toward
    the starship then actually passes through its "solid"
    side.

22   INT. ENTERPRISE CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)

    Several crewpersons stopping, astonished at the sight
    of what this CLOSER VIEW shows as the SWIRLING BLOB
    OF LIGHT comes INTO SIGHT near the corridor deck and
    passes on an upward diagonal path of EXITING VIEW near
    the ceiling beyond. (It is on its way to the bridge.)

23   INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

    where Conn is reacting to an alarm from his panel.
    Geordi RE-ENTERS bridge, takes his position.

                    CONN CREWMEMBER
            Intruder alert, sir! But I
            don't...
                (puzzled)
            ... show a location...

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          17.

23   CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
                (to Geordi)
            Why a tiny swirl of light,
            Lieutenant? Could you make out
            anything else?

                    GEORDI
                (puzzling; looks up)
            No, sir. Perhaps it is meant to
            seem "non-threatening" to us.

                    DATA
                (interrupting)
            The away team signal has been cut
            off, Captain! We are no longer
            in contact with our people!

    Conn is very puzzled over a reading at his station.

                    CONN CREWMEMBER
            Intruder relays do show
            something...

    He hesitates, puzzled.

                    PICARD
            Why has everything become a
            something, or a whatever?

    He gets his answer as the tiny SWIRLING LIGHT OBJECT
    COMES INTO VIEW. It is about the size of a 'light bulb'
    now, moving more slowly than before. COMING IN ON AN
    UPWARD ANGLE THROUGH THE DECK, IT STOPS NOW, SUSPENDED
    IN THE MID-BRIDGE AREA.

24   ANGLE ON COMMAND AREA (OPTICAL)

    Picard has come to his feet, watching as the TINY
    SWIRLING LIGHT OBJECT which moves in his direction, and
    STOPS. Picard has tried not to retreat before the
    mysterious thing, but it is with some difficulty. Conn
    has moved in holding a large hand phaser ready, but
    has gotten a headshake from Picard. Then, from the tiny
    swirling light object, a VOICE we'll come to know as
    the EDOLORD. THE WORDS ARE TRANSMITTED WITH SUCH VOLUME
    THAT THEY LITERALLY SHAKE THE BRIDGE (OPTICAL OR CAMERA
    JIGGLE). A couple of the bridge crew throw hands to
    ears protectively. At the same time, we HEAR SOUND OF
    SOMETHING SHATTERING "GLASSLIKE" AS IT COMES APART,
    various PANELS FLARE WITH LIGHT.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          18.

24   CONTINUED:

                    EDOLORD (V.O.)
            STATE THE PURPOSE...

    Apparently aware the volume has been too great, the
    Edolord message is begun again at least at a bearable
    volume level.

                    EDOLORD (V.O.)
                (continuing; repeating)
            STATE...
                (volume still reduced)
            STATE THE PURPOSE OF WHAT YOU HAVE
            DONE!

25   SHOT PERMITTING NEXT EFFECT (OPTICAL)

    Picard fighting to stay calm. As he realizes he has
    heard the entire message:

                    PICARD
            I am Captain Picard, commanding
            this Federation starship...

    VIOLENTLY, THE ENTIRE MAIN BRIDGE BUCKS AND SHAKES
    (OPTICAL AND/OR CAMERA MOVEMENTS) IN A WAY SUGGESTING
    SOMETHING "SHAKING SENSE" INTO A SMALL CHILD OR ANIMAL.
    All not seated are thrown to the deck or must hang on.

26   ANOTHER ANGLE

    Data moves toward the Command Area, examining the LIGHT
    SWIRL.

                    EDOLORD (V.O.)
                (repeating)
            STATE THE PURPOSE OF YOUR VISIT
            HERE!

                    PICARD
                (toward LIGHT SWIRL)
            We have sent down what we call an
            away team to make peaceful contact
            with...

                    EDOLORD (V.O.)
            DO YOU PLAN TO LEAVE LIFE FORMS
            HERE?

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          19.

26   CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
            No... we are merely visiting
            here...

                    EDOLORD (V.O.)
                (interrupting)
            BUT YOU DID MORE AT THE WORLD
            YOU JUST LEFT. WHY HAVE YOU LEFT
            YOUR OWN LIFE FORMS THERE?

                    DATA
            The colony we just planted, sir...

                    PICARD
            We found that world uninhabited.
            The life forms we left there...
                (carefully choosing his
                 words)
            ... had sought the challenge...
                (shrugs)
            ... at least that's the basic
            reason... had sought the challenge
            of creating a new lifestyle,
            a new society there.
                (beat; explaining)
            All life on our world is driven
            to... to protect its own form by
            re-seeding itself as... as widely
            as possible.

                    EDOLORD (V.O.)
            DO NOT INTERFERE WITH MY CHILDREN
            BELOW!

27   ANGLE ON DATA (OPTICAL)

    genuinely puzzled over Picard's last statement.
    Suddenly the TINY LIGHT SWIRL RISES TOWARD DATA, comes
    to rest floating inches in front of his face. Then,
    Data registers a surprised expression now as he
    continues looking at the SWIRLING LIGHT OBJECT. Then:

                    DATA
            Captain... I do not understand how,
            but it is asking me if I was...
            constructed for information
            exchanges.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          20.

27   CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
                (hesitates, then)
            If there... is any way of our
            learning more about whatever is
            out there, Data...

    Data starts to nod, a movement which triggers action
    -- the tiny LIGHT SWIRL moving in to touch Data's
    forehead -- resulting in Data going down to the deck
    with a crash.

28   ANGLE DOWN ON DATA (OPTICAL)

    His entire form GLOWING as he goes stiff, eyes rolling
    back in their sockets.

29   EXT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS

    ESTABLISHING.

30   CLOSER ON ENTRY

    as Wesley comes INTO VIEW with THREE EDO YOUTHS of about
    his own age, two male and one a very pretty young female
    who has very much caught Wesley's attention. The boys
    have a ball; they're all smiling, laughing.

                    FIRST EDO BOY
            Watch! You can't do this!

    The Edo boy stands expertly on his hands. Wesley eyes
    this, decides to do something else. He turns a series
    of cartwheels. The Edo kids CHEER with enthusiasm,
    especially the girl who hugs Wesley impulsively.

                    EDO GIRL
            I want to do something too! With
            you.

                    WESLEY
                (loses smile; warily)
            Uh... What?

                    EDO GIRL
            Something you can teach me. Will
            you?

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          21.

30   CONTINUED:

                    WESLEY
            Well, actually, there are some
            games I... uh, don't quite know
            yet...

                    EDO GIRL
            It's playing ball. Will you teach
            me?

                    WESLEY
                (relieved)
            Oh, sure. If you have a bat for
            the ball, I'll show you my
            favorite.
                (sees their puzzlement)
            A bat...
                (shows measurement)
            ... a stick or branch, about this
            thick, this long...

                    EDO GIRL
            We can get it from the gardens.

    They race OFF leading the way, beginning to toss the
    ball back and forth.

31   INT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS - EMPHASIZING RIKER

    Riker in the midst of reacting to something Worf has
    just said. With him the balance of the away team is
    mixing happily with various of the Edo.

                    RIKER
                (touching his insignia)
            Enterprise, come in.
                (waits, then again)
            Captain, do you read me?

    He gets nothing in return. Troubled, he turns to Worf,
    speaking quietly:

                    RIKER
                (continuing)
            Let's... it may be nothing, but
            let's move our people together.

                    WORF
                (nods, then)
            Including the boy, Wesley? He's
            outside...

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          22.

31   CONTINUED:

                    TROI
            Is there some problem?

    Troi has somehow sensed Riker's feelings and made her
    way toward them now.

                    RIKER
            We've lost contact with our ship.

                    TROI
                (scans room)
            It's nothing these people have
            done... I'm certain of that. Their
            minds are so open...

                    RIKER
            Help me locate Wes. He's wandered
            somewhere.

    He LEADS Troi toward the entrance as Worf eases his way
    toward the rest of the Away Team.

32   OMITTED

33   INT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS - EMPHASIZING WORF

    Not wanting to create a false emergency, he works his
    way toward Tasha carefully. She's with Rivan, Liator
    and other Edo.

                    WORF
            If I can take a moment of your
            time, Lieutenant...

                    TASHA
            Yes, Worf... but you've got to hear
            this.
                (to Liator)
            Are you telling me that there's
            no crime here whatsoever? No one
            breaks any laws?

                    LIATOR
                (smiles)
            Once they did. Long, long ago
            there was much disorder.
                (smiles; shakes head)
            But not now.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          23.

33   CONTINUED:

                    TASHA
                (to Liator and Rivan)
            But I've seen no sign of... of
            police... those who enforce laws.

                    RIVAN
            We have very few. They're called
            "Mediators." And they are needed
            only in one place each day...

                    LIATOR
            The "punishment zone." An area
            that's selected for a period of
            time.

                    TASHA
            It's a completely random selection?

                    LIATOR
                (nods)
            No one but our Mediators know what
            place or for how long. We're very
            proud of the wisdom of our
            ancestors. No person ever knows
            where or when a zone will be.

                    RIVAN
                (smiling too)
            ... and so no one risks death.

                    WORF
                (suddenly alert)
            Death?

                    RIVAN
                (nodding)
            ... by breaking any law.

                    TASHA
            Wait, let's explain this...

                    LIATOR
                (nodding, pleased)
            Only one punishment for any
            crime.

                    WORF
            Anyone who commits any crime in
            the punishment zone dies!

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT TWO          24.

33   CONTINUED: (2)

                    LIATOR
                (nods)
            The law is the law. Our peace
            is built on that.

                    TASHA
            Even a small thing? Such as
            ignoring a rule like "keep off
            the grass?"

                    RIVAN
                (nods; happily)
            Then no one breaks that rule.
            Who wants to risk execution?
            There's always a white wall or
            fence to remind anyone of a
            forbidden area like that...

    Tasha begins EXITING calling a question back to the
    Edo.

                    TASHA
            And just who tells visitors of
            those rules?

                    WORF
            We'd better find Wesley!

    They leave behind two puzzled Edo.

                                    FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                         

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         25.

                           ACT THREE                           

    FADE IN:

34   EXT. EDO GARDENS

    Wesley INTO VIEW with his friends, still tossing the
    ball back and forth. He makes a difficult catch,
    capturing the Edo girls' admiration again. (In b.g.
    is an attractive, glassed potting shed surrounded by
    a low white fence.)

                    EDO GIRL
            You're very clever at this!

    Wesley decides to show off, runs ahead...

                    WESLEY
            At home we play a lot of it.
                (gestures; running
                 ahead)
            Here, toss the ball ahead of me!

    Which is done, but it is going over his head.

35   CLOSE ON EDO GIRL

    registering concern.

                    EDO GIRL
            No, Wes...

36   PANNING WESLEY

    making a strong effort to reach the ball, leaping a
    neat white fence at the potting enclosure. The Boys
    are now registering too.

                    FIRST EDO BOY
                (shouting)
            No! It's forbidden to disturb
            the new plants... !

37   ANGLE ON WESLEY'S FALL

    Leaping for the ball, missing... falling into the
    potting shed.

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         26.

38   GROUP SHOT - THE YOUNG PEOPLE

    The girl hanging back, ANXIOUS. The boys pressing in,
    short of the white fence. Wesley lying in the broken
    glass of the Shed.

                    FIRST EDO BOY
            Couldn't you see the fence?
            That's for new plants...

                    SECOND EDO BOY
                (overlapping first)
            Don't ever go past a white
            marker!

                    WESLEY
                (getting up)
            What's wrong?

    The the girl sees someone approaching from O.S., reacts
    horrified, SCREAMS.

39   WIDER ANGLE

    REVEALING a pair of Edo MEDIATORS (local law
    enforcement) hurrying toward the potting shed area in
    b.g. They are middle-aged men, exceedingly trim and
    healthy-looking, also kindly in appearance. Their only
    indication of office is a neat belt and pouch. But at
    the sight of them the girl SHRIEKS AGAIN and it is from
    genuine despair and fear for Wesley.

                    EDO GIRL
            Oh, no! Oh, please, no!

40   PAN THE MEDIATORS IN

    as Wesley climbs back over the fence, brushing himself
    off. The Edo young people now back away, awed at what
    has happened.

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
            Speak the truth. We are
            Mediators.

                    WESLEY
                (brushing clothes)
            I said I was fine. Just some
            splinters...

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         27.

40   CONTINUED:

                    EDO GIRL
                (staying back; through
                 tears)
            He doesn't know; he's from another
            place.

                    SECOND MEDIATOR
                (genuinely)
            How very sad. But this zone has
            been selected.

                    FIRST EDO BOY
            He doesn't understand!

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
                (nods)
            It's always sad... now doubly so.

    SOUND OF RUNNING STEPS, heralding:

                    RIKER (O.S.)
            What's happening here?

41   ANGLE TO INCLUDE RIKER AND TROI

    HURRYING IN to where the two Mediators stand with
    Wesley. The Edo young people are frightened, stay in
    b.g.

                    WESLEY
                (to Riker)
            I was chasing a ball...
                (indicating shed)
            ... and fell into that. I'm
            really sorry!

                    MEDIATOR
            You admit you did that? Freely?

    Wesley straightens up, throwing a look toward Riker.

                    WESLEY
            I'm with Starfleet. We don't
            lie.

    Riker gives Wesley a look with some pride hidden in it.

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         28.

41   CONTINUED:

                    RIKER
                (to Mediators)
            It won't happen again. We
            apologize.

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
            We're sorry, too. But that
            changes nothing.

    Mixed with MORE RUNNING FOOTSTEPS.

42   WIDER ANGLE

    TO INCLUDE the rest of the away team, Tasha and Worf,
    as they ARRIVE.

                    TASHA
            Careful, Commander, they've got
            some strange laws here...

                    RIKER
            I thought you reviewed the laws
            here.

                    TASHA
            But they list nothing about
            punishment. That's what all this
            is about.

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
            One moment, please...
                (to young Edo)
            Is there a witness to this
            transgression?

    Hesitantly, sadly, the other young people nod.

                    FIRST EDO BOY
            But it was my fault; I threw the
            ball past him...

    First Mediator holds up his hand, appearing to be
    genuinely saddened as he silences the Edo boy. Second
    Mediator drops his head in a gesture of extreme sadness
    too.

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         29.

42   CONTINUED:

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
            We have a visible transgression,
            ample witnesses, and an admission
            of guilt...
                (to Wesley)
            ... and it deeply pains us to do
            what we must. Are you prepared
            for punishment?

    First Mediator has opened his pouch during this, brought
    out a small device (to be identified as a syringe).
    Second Mediator has stepped to get to the rear of
    Wesley, trying to get past Riker.

                    SECOND MEDIATOR
                (to Riker)
            Please?

                    WORF
            Punishment? If you mean what the
            others were talking about...

                    RIKER
                (demanding)
            What kind of punishment? Name
            it!

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
            Death, of course! Don't make
            it...
                (raising syringe)
            ... difficult for the boy...

    Second Mediator has now squeezed past Riker, obviously
    intending to grab Wesley's arms from the rear... and
    is up-ended fast by Riker while Tasha and Worf bring
    out phasers trained directly on First Mediator.

                    WORF
            Drop that; drop it now!

    The Mediators seem even more stunned by what the humans
    have done. The syringe has been dropped; Tasha
    retrieves it, holds it for Riker's examination.

                    TASHA
            It's a kind of syringe...

    Riker grabs it, holds it under First Mediator's nose.

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         30.

42   CONTINUED: (2)

                    RIKER
            What is this? You said "death;"
            is it "poison?"

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
                (offended; very upset)
            But... but of course it is!
            Completely painless; the boy would
            have felt nothing...
                (indicating Wesley)
            But look at him now. You've
            frightened him!

                    WESLEY
                (disbelieving)
            He was going to kill me?

                    SECOND MEDIATOR
                (to Riker)
            And if this Zone were still in
            effect, you would all deserve
            death.

                    FIRST MEDIATOR
            It was announced you came as
            friends. Is this how friends act?

    During which Riker has touched his insignia.

                    RIKER
            Enterprise from away team, come
            in.
                (waits)
            Are you receiving us, Enterprise?

                    TASHA
                (touching insignia)
            Urgent, Enterprise. Please
            respond!

43   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND MYSTERY OBJECT (OPTICAL)

    in orbit of the planet.

44   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE EMPHASIZING DATA (OPTICAL)

    CONTINUING LAST SHOT with the exception that Beverly
    is now present, leaning over Data and checking him with
    a medical tricorder. Both are also anxiously aware of
    the tiny LIGHT SWIRL and his GLOWING FORM.

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         31.

44   CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
            Condition?

                    BEVERLY
            No sign of consciousness, but the
            balance of the readings are quite
            normal for him.

45   EMPHASIZING PICARD AND BEVERLY

    Both anxious.

                    PICARD
            I believe this is some form of
            information exchange with whatever
            is over there. At least, I hope
            that's it.

                    BEVERLY
            Any communication from our away
            team?

46   EMPHASIZING DATA (OPTICAL)

    as Picard shakes his head.

                    PICARD
            Something is blocking
            communication both...

    He cuts off mid-word. The LIGHT SWIRL breaks contact
    with Data -- THEN ABRUPTLY DISAPPEARS!

47   ANGLE ON PICARD AND BEVERLY

    REACTING to this, and to the LIGHT GLOW fading from Data
    whose eyes remain closed. Beverly reaches in quickly,
    touching Data, examining him again.

48   WIDER ON MAIN BRIDGE

    Reactions from the others to that and to the SOUND of
    TASHA'S VOICE in mid-message:

                    TASHA'S COM VOICE
            ... Security, urgent. Repeating,
            Enterprise from away team...

         STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT THREE         32.

48   CONTINUED:

                    GEORDI
                (interrupting)
            This is the Enterprise,
            Lieutenant. We're receiving you
            now.

49   ANGLE ON DATA

    Beverly checking readings on her medical tricorder
    again.

                    TASHA'S COM VOICE
            This is an urgent call for Captain
            Picard.

                    RIKER'S COM VOICE
            We may need your presence here,
            Captain. We have serious trouble
            with... with a member of our away
            team and an unusual law they have
            here...

        (Brant listens attentively in b.g.)

                    PICARD
            Captain to Riker, stand by.
                (to Beverly)
            Signs of consciousness?

                    BEVERLY
            None yet. Perhaps in minutes,
            hours... I don't yet know what's
            happened to him.

                    PICARD
            Take him to Sickbay; call me the
            instant he's awake.
                (to Geordi)
            Anything new on that... that thing
            out there?

                    GEORDI
            Negative, sir.

                    PICARD
            Captain to first officer. I'm
            beaming down.

                                    FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                        

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          33.

                           ACT FOUR                            

    FADE IN:

50   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND MYSTERY OBJECT (OPTICAL)

    still next to each other, orbiting the planet.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
            Captain's log, supplemental. We
            have encountered a strange
            vessel-like object, one with
            frightening power, which appears
            to exist partly in another
            dimension. On the world below...

51   EXT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS

    ESTABLISHING. As before, both young and old are seen
    traveling easily at a run.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
                (continuing)
            ... what began as a shore leave
            opportunity among delightful
            inhabitants of a lovely Earthlike
            planet... has led incredibly to
            a death sentence...

52   INT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS - WIDE ANGLE

    in which Picard is being led to what appears a "seat of
    honor" next to Rivan, Liator, other planet folk. Riker,
    Troi and Geordi are moving in to take a place next to
    the Captain. Hovering anxiously nearby are Tasha and
    Worf holding their small phasers unobtrusively in hand
    as they scan the Edo, alert for any further surprises.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
                (continuing)
            ... a death sentence proclaimed
            against... one of our crew members
            for what our world considers a
            petty, non-criminal infraction.
            How can I allow a crew member
            to die for that?
                    (MORE)

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          34.

52   CONTINUED:

                    PICARD (Cont'd)
            How does the Prime Directive apply
            to this case? Indeed if we do
            save our crewmember, how will the
            frightening object up here react
            to that?

53   CLOSER ON KEY GROUP

    Before Picard takes his seat, he moves Troi aside,
    speaks quietly:

                    PICARD
            Care to comment privately how you
            read any of this...

                    TROI
                (shakes head)
            Unnecessary, sir.
                (indicates)
            I get strong feelings that they
            are honest almost to a fault.
            But they do have great respect,
            even pride, in their own ways.

    Picard moves to take his seat.

                    LIATOR
            Welcome to our world, Captain.
            We regret that our system of
            justice is troubling you.

                    PICARD
            Wesley Crusher -- where is he?

                    RIKER
            In accord with the Prime
            Directive, Captain, I've let them
            hold him pending the outcome of
            this.

                    RIVAN
                (gently)
            He is safe and unharmed. We
            promise that.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          35.

53   CONTINUED:

                    RIVAN
            Captain Picard... I do not know
            how you Earth people conduct law
            and justice; even if you respect
            such things...

                    PICARD
            We do.

                    LIATOR
            Good, so do we. Our precepts have
            been handed down from long ago.
            The tranquility you see in our
            lives has been made possible by
            our laws...

                    RIVAN
            We are a people of law. They do
            sometimes bring us sadness, but
            we have learned to adjust to that.
            Perhaps your laws work as well...

                    PICARD
            They haven't always, but they do
            now.

                    LIATOR
            Do you execute criminals?

                    PICARD
            No... not any longer, that is.

                    RIVAN
            You did once?

                    PICARD
            Unfortunately, yes. But since
            then...

                    RIVAN
                (interrupts)
            And when you did, was it believed
            necessary to do so?

                    PICARD
            Can we please get to the facts
            concerning our crewmember?
                    (MORE)

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          36.

53   CONTINUED: (2)

                    PICARD (Cont'd)
                (waits; gets no answer)
            Yes, some people then felt it was
            necessary. But we've learned how
            to detect the seeds of criminal
            behavior... Capital punishment
            is no longer justified in our
            world as a deterrent.

                    LIATOR
            But you once believed execution
            necessary.
                (to Rivan)
            So, we are not yet as "advanced"
            as they are.
                (to Picard)
            And since you are "advanced" in
            other ways too, I suggest you use
            the, ah, transfer device...

                    RIVAN
            "Beam... "

                    LIATOR
            ... the "beam" device to permit
            the Wesley boy to escape from us.
            We will record him as a convicted-criminal
            out of our reach...
                (then sarcasm)
            ... an "advanced" person who
            luckily escaped the barbarism of
            this backward little world.

    Picard reacts uncomfortably to this.

                    PICARD
            Unfortunately, we have a law
            ourselves known as the Prime
            Directive...

                    RIVAN
                (nods)
            Riker has explained it to us...

                    PICARD
            Is the boy in the slightest danger
            from you right now?

    Rivan and Liator exchange looks.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          37.

53   CONTINUED: (3)

                    LIATOR
                (to Rivan)
            Until sundown?

                    RIVAN
                (nods; to Picard)
            Because you are strangers, we are
            delaying enforcement of the law.
            But we must act by the time of
            sundown.

                    PICARD
            Then, I have another question now,
            please. While orbiting... while
            circling high above your world
            as we do... we encountered a
            strange object, a "vessel"
            perhaps? Do you know of such a
            thing? It was... well, you could
            say not entirely real, at least
            not completely what you might call
            solid...

                    RIVAN
            Do you mean God?

                    PICARD
            God?

                    LIATOR
            God is said to be somewhere up
            there. Protecting us.

    A long beat during which the Enterprise people exchange
    looks, uncertain what this could mean.

                    PICARD
            Exactly... exactly how would you
            describe "God?"

                    RIVAN
                (indicating Picard)
            As you just did. As existing
            both here and in another place
            also.

                    LIATOR
            But when God wants to show its
            power, it can make itself felt
            most fully.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          38.

53   CONTINUED: (4)

                    GEORDI
                (with a look to Picard)
            We know.

    Communicator BOS'N WHISTLE SOUNDS; Picard touches his
    insignia.

                    PICARD
            Picard here.

                    BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
            CMO Crusher here, sir. Commander
            Data has just regained
            consciousness.

                    PICARD
            What condition? Can he talk?

                    BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
            He is insisting on it, sir.
            Urgently.

    Troi has made a signal to Picard, mouths the word
    "Wesley."

                    PICARD
            Stand by; Picard out.
                (to Troi)
            I'd rather explain about her son
            to her personally.
                (to Rivan and Liator)
            You promise Wesley Crusher will
            be safe until sundown?

                    LIATOR
                (nods)
            You have our word.

                    PICARD
            Then, will one of you return with
            me to our vessel?

                    RIVAN
                (nods)
            Of course. I'll go as a hostage
            for the boy's safety.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          39.

53   CONTINUED: (5)

                    PICARD
            No, that's not it. I want you
            to... identify something for me,
            if you can.
                (touches insignia)
            Captain to Transporter Room.
            Stand by for three to beam up...

    Picard motions to Troi, beckons for Rivan to join them
    as they stand to one side.

                    RIVAN
            I'm...frightened...

                    TROI
                (touches her gently;
                 smiling)
            No reason to be.

                    PICARD
            Transporter Room, energize.

54   EFFECTS ANGLE - (OPTICAL)

    as Picard, Troi and Rivan BEAM OUT.

55   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND MYSTERY OBJECT/VESSEL

    still in orbit of the planet together.

55A  INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE OBSERVATION LOUNGE

    Picard, Troi and Rivan ENTER SCENE coming down the
    corridor. Rivan is astonished by what she is seeing.
    She looks from Troi to a couple of very efficient
    appearing crewmembers who are passing.

                    RIVAN
            But this is a ... a city. A great
            city!

    Now, Beverly ENTERS SCENE also, her expression freezing
    as she sees Picard and bears down upon him.

                    BEVERLY
            Captain, I've just seen the away
            team report about Wesley...

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          40.

55A  CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
                (interrupting; firmly)
            In a moment, Doctor...

                    BEVERLY
                (interrupting)
            "In a moment... "

                    PICARD
                (icily)
            Exactly, Doctor, in a moment.
                (to Rivan; more gently)
            You were about to say... ?

    Rivan gives Beverly a puzzled glance, then turns her
    attention to Picard, indicating the vessel.

                    RIVAN
            Since you have all this power,
            why be concerned about our laws?
            You could take the boy from us!

                    PICARD
                (troubled smile)
            It's not that simple.

    Beverly gives a quick look at Rivan and Picard at this,
    beginning to understand at least something of what may
    be happening. With so much of her own at stake, it is
    all Beverly can do to keep from interrupting again, but
    Picard's firm expression detains her. Picard, Beverly,
    and Troi lead Rivan into a turbolift. Troi gives a
    troubled look toward Rivan.

55B  INT. MAIN BRIDGE

    as Picard, Troi and Rivan ENTER from turbolift.

                    TROI
            From here we can view whatever's
            outside our vessel.

                    RIVAN
            Do you mean my world?! You said
            we'd be high above it...

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          41.

55B  CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
                (nods)
            And something else that's up here
            circling your world too. It's
            very important to us... perhaps
            to you... to know what it is.

    Rivan is puzzled.

56   ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)

    REVEALING THE MYSTERY VESSEL/OBJECT out beyond what WE
    CAN SEE of the Enterprise. CAMERA PANS to Rivan,
    Picard, Troi, and Beverly. At the instant Rivan sees
    it, she drops to one knee, clenching her eyes closed,
    with hands crossed over her chest.

                    PICARD
            I'm sorry, Rivan, but this was
            necessary. Do you know what that
            is?

    Rivan nods jerkily, her eyes still clenched closed.

                    TROI
                (waits; then gently)
            Can you tell us what it is?

    Rivan stays frozen in the same position. Picard now
    waits, then:

                    PICARD
            Is it "God?"

    Rivan again nods jerkily, eyes still clenched.

                    PICARD
                (continuing)
            Now, it's very important you
            answer something. How do you
            recognize what it is?

57   ANOTHER ANGLE

    Rivan actually trembling. Troi bends close, speaks
    encouragingly:

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          42.

57   CONTINUED:

                    TROI
            Nothing will harm you, I promise!
            Just tell us how you recognize
            it.

                    RIVAN
                (beat; weakly)
            It... has appeared...before. It
            is... the same.

                    PICARD
            Can you speak to it... Does it
            speak to you?

                    TROI
            Captain... !

57A  ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

    Troi is pointing agitatedly to where the mysterious
    object/vessel is GLOWING BRIGHTER, and the bridge
    begins to shake as WE HEAR THE IMMENSE VOLUME OF THE
    VOICE WE HEARD EARLIER IN THE BRIDGE.

                    EDOLORD (V. O.)
            RETURN MY CHILD!

                    BEVERLY
                (to Captain; puzzled)
            "Return... ?"

    Picard's eye falls on the trembling Rivan and he
    suddenly understands. The moment interrupted by the
    Enterprise beginning to SHUDDER and the LIGHTS BLINK
    OFF, EMPHASIZING THE NOW BRIGHTLY GLOWING EDOLORD
    OBJECT/VESSEL.

                    TROI
            It's coming toward us, sir... !

    And this is exactly what is happening. THE EDOLORD
    OBJECT/VESSEL IS MOVING TOWARD THE ENTERPRISE ON A
    COLLISION COURSE. The Enterprise is SHAKING heavily
    now, WE CAN HEAR STRUCTURAL STRAIN.

    Picard understands what to do, takes off his insignia,
    attaching it to Rivan's clothing as:

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          43.

57A  CONTINUED:

                    PICARD
            Picard to Transporter Room,
            urgent!

                    TROI
            Yes, do that! But hurry... !

                    BEVERLY
            It is still coming toward us...

                    TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
            Transporter Chief to Captain...

                    PICARD
            One to beam down to away team
            location. Hurry!

57B  ANGLE EMPHASIZING RIVAN (OPTICAL)

    Picard steps back from her, his insignia attached to her
    clothing.

                    PICARD
            Engage, Transporter Room, urgent!
            Engag...

    The TRANSPORTER SOUND cuts him off and Rivan BEAMS OUT.

57C  ANGLE INCLUDING VIEWER (OPTICAL)

    as slowly the LIGHTS COME ON and the EDOLORD
    OBJECT/VESSEL RETURNS TO ITS ORIGINAL DISTANCE FROM
    ENTERPRISE.

57D  INT. SICKBAY CORRIDOR

    as a turbolift door opens, Picard and Beverly EMERGING
    to stride down the corridor toward Sickbay.

                    BEVERLY
            What do you intend to do about
            my son?

                    PICARD
            He is being held safely, until
            sundown...

    Beverly pulls to a stop, faces Picard.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          44.

57D  CONTINUED:

                    BEVERLY
            When he faces execution! Although
            he has committed no crime,
            certainly none that any sane and
            reasonable person would...

    Beverly's words have come faster, louder, until she
    finally realizes she is giving way emotionally. She
    stops, controls herself with an effort we can see.

                    BEVERLY
                (continuing)
            I... apologize, sir... but this is
            very difficult for me...

                    PICARD
            You saw what that thing was about
            to do. I have a ship, an entire
            crew to consider...

                    BEVERLY
            If you felt the same, you'd be
            as frightened and trembling...

                    PICARD
                (quietly)
            But I am.

    They face each other silently. Then she nods.

                Betty Brant V.O.
            Captain Picard, this is urgent!

                    PICARD
                What is it, Miss, eh…?

                    BRANT
            Brant, sir.  Captain, Spider-Man
            is on the Edo world.  It sounds like
            he’s fighting the Edo.

                    PICARD
                      (outraged)
            Deploy security to the surface to assist
            the Edo in containing him; I’ll be there
            shortly.

            Red-faced, Picard turns to Beverly again as
            she picks up where they left off.  She sounds
            unsure of the situation.  She knows Picard must
            be on hand somewhere else very soon.

                    BEVERLY
            Data is in Sickbay here. You'll
            find him able to talk.

58   INT. SICKBAY

    Data is conscious, being scanned on Sickbay equipment by
    a MEDICAL TECHNICIAN. As Beverly and Picard ENTER, the
    Technician pauses in what he is doing.

                    MEDICAL TECHNICIAN
            He's checking out fine, Doctor.

                    BEVERLY
                (nods)
            Finish it later, please.

    The medical technician withdraws. Picard moves in to
    bedside. Data nods at him.

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          45.

58   CONTINUED:

                    DATA
            I was an excellent choice for
            them, Captain. They could
            communicate with me quite...
                (shakes head)
            ... I was about to say quite
            "easily," but there was nothing
            "easy" about it. Fortunately,
            they stopped short of overloading
            my circuitry...

                    PICARD
                (interrupting)
            You're saying they. It is a
            vessel of some sort...

                    DATA
                (interrupting)
            Definitely not a single "entity"
            if that's what you mean, sir...
            although they know the Edo worship
            them as a "God thing."

                    PICARD
            They know... ?

                    DATA
                (nods)
            They recognize that this is quite
            expected and harmless at the
            present Edo stage of evolution,
            and...

                    PICARD
                (interrupting)
            What kind of vessel?

                    DATA
                (without pause)
            It is perhaps not what we'd
            understand as a "vessel," sir.
            The dimensions this one occupies
            allows them to... well, to be in
            several places at once. But they
            consider this entire star cluster
            to be theirs, and it was probably
            unwise of us to attempt to place
            a human colony in this area.
                    (MORE)

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          46.

58   CONTINUED: (2)

                    DATA (Cont'd)
            Of course, there are three
            thousand four other planets in
            this general star cluster in
            which we...

                    PICARD
            Data, don't babble!

                    DATA
            "Babble," sir? I am not aware
            that I ever babble, sir. It may
            be that from time to time...

    Data trails off as he becomes aware of Picard's
    expression.

                    PICARD
            Short answers, Data! Do they
            accept our presence at this
            planet?

    Obeying Picard exactly (and without any sign of rancor),
    Data gives clipped answers.

                    DATA
            Not yet decided, sir.

                    PICARD
                (waits)
            Please feel free to volunteer any
            important information, however.

                    DATA
            I volunteer that they are now
            observing us, sir.

                    PICARD
            To judge what kind of life forms
            we are?

                    DATA
            No, it is more curiosity, sir.
            I doubt they expect us to abide
            by their value systems.

    Picard throws a glance toward Beverly, as:

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          47.

58   CONTINUED: (3)

                    PICARD
            Do they... know of our Prime
            Directive?

                    DATA
            They know everything I know, sir.

                    PICARD
            And, in your opinion, if we
            violated the Prime Directive.. ?

                    BEVERLY
                (interrupting; blurting
                 it)
            That's not a fair question at...

    Beverly bites off her words. But it is all she can do
    to keep from saying more.

                    PICARD
                (to Data)
            Continue.

                    DATA
            That would be a case of judging
            us by our own rules, sir. If we
            violate our own Prime Directive,
            they might consider us deceitful
            and untrustworthy.
                (beat)
            You do recall, sir, they cautioned
            us not to interfere with their
            "children" below.
                (looks from Beverly to
                 Picard)
            What has happened?

                    BEVERLY
                (exploding)
            The Edo want to execute my son.
                (to Picard)
            I will not allow that to happen,
            Jean-Luc!

    She exhibits a fury that Data has watched with
    considerable interest. He turns to Picard.

                    DATA
            Most interesting, sir. The
            emotion of motherhood, compared
            to all others felt by humans...

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FOUR          48.

58   CONTINUED: (4)

    Beverly whirls on Data now.

                    BEVERLY
            SHUT UP!

    She DASHES angrily from the room. Data looks from
    Picard, to her, to Picard. Then he nods:

                    DATA
            You were right, sir. I do tend
            to babble.

                                    FADE OUT.

                         END ACT FOUR                          

          STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE          49.

                           ACT FIVE                            

    FADE IN:

59   EDO WORLD.  Night.  Spider-Man is surrounded by Starfleet officers as he pulls Wesley out of confinement.  Rivan and Liator are with the security detachment behind cover, anxiously observing the proceedings.  It is a small, squat building and two Edo guards are unconscious on the exterior grounds.  Wesley pulls away from him.

                WESLEY
            I told you, I’m going to do
            the right thing!

                  SPIDER-MAN
            So am I!  With great power
            must come great responsibility!

    The security team take up positions around Spider-Man
    and point their phasers at him.  Tasha and Worf exchange
    a quick glance across the woods.  Worf has an itchy
    trigger finger in cases which involve Spider-Man, but
    he restrains himself with a curled lip.

                TASHA
        You shouldn’t be here, Spider-Man!
        Leave Wesley alone until we can negotiate
        a solution.

    Wesley runs back inside, while Spider-Man leaps into the treetops.  Tasha and her team try to track him with their phasers to no avail.

                LIATOR
            So this is how Starfleet
            handles relations with
            “primitive” cultures?

                TASHA
            We don’t want him
            doing this any more than
            you do.  How can we prove
            that to you?

A single strand of webbing snags Tasha’s phaser and yanks it from her hand; Worf opens fire on the origin, but Spider-Man has already moved.

                LIATOR
            You must not shoot the
            trees!

Tasha rolls her eyes and suddenly breaks into a run for the prison building.

                TASHA
            Move in!  We’ll guard Wesley
            from inside!  Worf, Harris, bring
            these guards inside!

EXT. SPACE - EMPHASIZING ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

    The mystery object between starship and planet, their
    relative positions not moving.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
            Captain's log, stardate 41255.9.
            Whatever the object or vessel in
            orbit with us, it hangs there like
            a "nemesis". It is one thing
            to communicate with something
            mysterious...

60   INT. STARBOARD LOUNGE (OPTICAL)

    Picard sitting alone, looking out at the mysterious
    object.

                    PICARD (V.O.)
                (continuing)
            ... but it is quite another to be
            silently observed by it. I am
            concerned whether it understands
            the same concept of reason that
            we do?
            Spider-Man surely does not.  He has
            acted brashly, against our better
            interests and invaded the Edo world
            to rescue Wesley Crusher.  I am
            caught between two mystery opponents
            with whom it seems combat is not an option.

    Picard ponders all this for a moment more until Data
    ENTERS. Picard beckons.

                    DATA
            You sent for me, sir?

                    PICARD
            Let's talk some more, Data.

                    DATA
            Yes sir. What level of
            communication?

    Picard gives him an annoyed look.

                    PICARD
            Any. My apologies for saying you
            babbled.

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              50.

60   CONTINUED:

                    DATA
            But I do, sir.
                (beat)
            It was wise to beam back the Edo
            woman.

                    PICARD
                (nods)
            Barely in time.

                    DATA
                (nods)
            The Edo's "God" is very protective
            of its children.

                    PICARD
            There was no choice but to
            learn...
                (indicates mystery
                 object)
            ... what we could about that thing
            from her.

                    DATA
            Apparently the Edo people had seen
            it before, from time to time, sir.

                    PICARD
                (nods)
            But I'm sorry I had to. She was
            so frightened.

                    DATA
                (nods)
            Understandable. To share an orbit
            with "God" is no small experience.

    Picard looks at Data, smiles.

                    PICARD
            You have a facility for seeing
            things not in the way we do, but
            as they truly are.

    Picard shifts in his seat closer to Data, addresses him
    eye to eye.

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              51.

60   CONTINUED: (2)

                    PICARD
                (continuing)
            I need help, my friend. I cannot
            let Wesley or any member of this
            vessel be sacrificed this way.
            The Prime Directive does not
            really intend that.

                    DATA
            The problem, sir, is there!
                (indicates mystery
                 object)
            Although they have learned of the
            Prime Directive from my mind, how
            will they evaluate it? How do
            they reason? What are their
            values? Remember its warning
            to us, sir.

                    PICARD
            Exactly. How do I explain not
            obeying the laws down there, not
            permitting young Crusher's
            execution? Does that endanger
            this ship and over a thousand
            other lives?

                    DATA
            Would you choose one life over
            one thousand, sir?

                    PICARD
                (snaps)
            I refuse to let arithmetic decide
            questions like that!

    Picard examines Data's expression again. Then, he
    indicates out toward the mysterious object/vessel again.

                    PICARD
            Did you learn anything of the
            relationship between the Edo and
            that? Why are they so certain
            it is "God?"

                    DATA
            Any sufficiently advanced life
            form can appear to others to be
            that, sir.
                    (MORE)

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              52.

60   CONTINUED: (3)

                    DATA (Cont'd)
                (looks out toward the
                 Object)
            But when they were probing my
            thoughts, Captain, I could feel
            that whatever they are now, they
            once existed in this dimension,
            just as we do. Perhaps also in
            the same kind of "flesh and blood"
            form. Since then, however, they
            have evolved considerably further.
            Their present existence in mixed
            dimensions no doubt has advantages
            we do not understand...

                    PICARD
            Then, in their earlier flesh and
            blood existence they could have
            once shared our kind of values.

                    DATA
            The Edo share them, sir.

                    PICARD
            Why would advanced things like
            that feel obliged to protect the
            Edo?

                    DATA
            Perhaps because the Edo are a
            child-race by comparison.
            Possibly a race which the life
            forms over there "planted" here
            much as we now plant human
            colonies on Class-M planets.

    Interrupted by Beverly ENTERING. She moves to face
    Picard, trying for a somewhat respectful position of
    attention. She is mastering her emotions, but the pain
    is obvious.

                    BEVERLY
            Having fulfilled my professional
            obligations regarding Commander
            Data...

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              53.

60   CONTINUED: (4)

                    PICARD
            You now request permission to beam
            down -- permission granted.
                (stands)
            You can accompany me while I try
            to resolve this.
                (starts; then stops and
                 turns)
            And you should know that whatever
            the cost, I will not allow them
            to execute your son.

    Beverly turns to Picard -- she wants to fall crying at
    his feet, or embrace him, cover him with kisses of
    gratitude.

                    BEVERLY
                (correctly)
            Thank you, sir.

                    PICARD
                (to Data)
            Take command, Data.

    Picard STRIDES OUT of the lounge, then Beverly HURRIES
    AFTER him. As he leaves, Data smiles a second time.

                    DATA
            Aye, sir.

61   THE PRISON BUILDING

Rivan, Liator, Yar, Worf and the other security personnel watch over Wesley with an air of unease.

62   TRANSPORTER SHOT (OPTICAL)

    Picard and Beverly beam in.

                    RIVAN (O.S.)
            Captain Picard...

    She drops worshipfully to one knee,
    crossing her hands across her chest, eyes closed as when
    she saw the mystery/vessel object. She hands Picard
    his insignia.

                    RIVAN
            I saw you share the sky with God.
            You must be Gods.
                (turning to the other
                 Edo, eyes still
                 clenched)
            And the boy too.

    Liator shuffles nervously, uncertainly. The Edo have
    always appeared to be a calm, intelligent life form,
    never seeming overly superstitious, but should they
    reject this possibility? Beverly turns to Picard
    hopefully; is this an answer to the dilemma? Then
    Picard bends, lifts Rivan up by her elbows.

                    PICARD
            No, no, we're not "Gods."
                (small smile)
            Your own idea of that is much
            better for you at this time...

                    WESLEY (O.S.)
                (interrupting)
            Mother...

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              55.

64   ANOTHER ANGLE

    to INCLUDE WESLEY with Liator.

                    WESLEY
                (to Beverly)
            I guess you know a lot has
            happened here...

                    BEVERLY
                (nodding; holding it
                 in)
            I know.

                    WESLEY
            Are you going to let them kill
            me, sir?

                    PICARD
            No.
                (turning to Liator)
            But I'd like to prevent it in a
            way you can understand...

                    LIATOR
            How can we let this happen,
            Rivan? Everything we respect,
            our law, our peace, our world's
            order...
                (moving to Picard)
            You are more powerful but we beg
            you not to do this to us. At
            least study what we once were --
            hurtful to each other, savage,
            thieving...

                    RIKER
                (interrupting)
            We understand. In fact, your
            system of law and punishment may
            be better than many we once had.
                (points at Picard)
            But he has laws he must obey too.
            And one of them says he must
            protect his people from harm.

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              56.

64   CONTINUED:

                    LIATOR
            We did not ask you to come here...

                    PICARD
                (nods)
            Which has to do with another law
            I must obey. All of us are sworn
            not to interfere with other life
            in the galaxy. I am caught
            between the two. If I save this
            young man, I break that law...

                    LIATOR
            And you should be executed if you
            do so!

                    PICARD
                (nods)
            I may suffer almost as much.
            Starfleet takes our Prime
            Directive very seriously...

                    LIATOR
            No, it is God who will punish you!

                    RIKER
                (nods)
            That has crossed our minds too.

                    LIATOR
            Our laws have been violated. What
            of justice?  Not only has the boy
            violated our laws, but your security
            officers fired their energy weapons
            at our trees, and that…other man in
            the mask attacked us!

                    TASHA
            What of justice to Wesley? Does
            he deserve to die?

                    LIATOR
            What makes our law strong is the
            certainty of punishment!

                    BEVERLY
            But my son had no warning...

                    LIATOR
            We cannot allow ignorance of the
            law to become a defense...

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              57.

64   CONTINUED: (2)

                    RIVAN
            Is it possible we are wrong about
            that? Surely there is such a
            thing as too much harshness...

                    LIATOR
            We do not dispense mercy... only
            justice.

                    TASHA
                (calls from entrance)
            Their sun is almost down, sir.

                    PICARD
                (to the others)
            Stand ready to beam out.

65   ANGLE FOR BEAM OUT (OPTICAL)

    as the Away Team gathers in position. CROSSING toward
    them, Picard passes Liator.

                    PICARD
            The question of justice has
            concerned me a good deal lately.
            Pained me. Until now, Liator.
            I realize now that there can be
            no justice...

                    LIATOR
            God will destroy you!

                    PICARD
                (ignored his outburst)
            ... no justice so long as laws are
            absolute. Life itself is an
            exercise in exceptions.

                    RIKER
                (quietly)
            Bravo. When has justice ever been
            as simple as a rulebook, sir?
                (looks around)
            Six to beam up, Captain?

                    PICARD
                (touches insignia)
            Six to beam up.

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              58.

65   CONTINUED:

                    LIATOR
                (screams it)
            God will punish you!

    And with this ringing in their ears, they BEAM OUT.

66   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND MYSTERY OBJECT/VESSEL

    both still in orbit.

67   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)

    as the turbolift DISCHARGES Picard, Riker and the
    others. The balance of our regulars are on duty there
    too.

                    RIKER
            Main Viewer on!

    They slowly take their positions, eyes on the Viewer.
    As Wesley ENTERS with Beverly, Geordi looks up.

                    GEORDI
            Greetings, Jailbird.

    It doesn't get a big laugh at this moment.

                    PICARD
            Hailing frequencies open.

                    TASHA
            Open, sir.

                    PICARD
            To the object sharing this
            orbit... we will remove the human
            colonists from the adjoining solar
            system if signaled to do so. Or
            we'll proceed on our mission, if
            signaled to do that. Please tell
            us...

                    DATA
            Captain!

    The IMAGE on the Viewer begins FADING, FINALLY
    DISAPPEARS.

              STAR TREK: "Justice" - 9/4/87 - ACT FIVE              59.

67   CONTINUED:

                    GEORDI
            Is that a signal?

                    PICARD
                (beat)
            I was hoping for more.

                    GEORDI
            More of what, sir? I'm happy it's
            gone.

                    RIKER
                (nods)
            We're all thrilled with that, sir.

                    PICARD
                (beat)
            I was hoping we'd learn more about
            it.  I had also hoped that we could
            reach some level of understanding
            with the Edo. But since we can't...
                (looks to Riker, deeply dejected)
            Take us out of here, Number One.

                    RIKER
            Gladly, sir.

68   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

    as it begins leaving orbit.

                                    FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                        

                            THE END   

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