FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling at high warp against an array of stars.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41242.4.
Our last assignment has taken us
into the remote Omicron Theta
star system, home of our android
crewmember Lieutenant Commander
Data. Although we are due...
2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Everyone at his regular station with the exception of
Data whose station is manned by WESLEY.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... at our next assignment, I have
decided to increase velocity to
warp eight to visit Data's home
planet for a few hours in the
hopes of unraveling some of the
mystery of his beginnings.
GEORDI turns to RIKER.
GEORDI
Sir, we are now twenty minutes
from Omicron Theta...
(checks reading)
... mark!
Riker gets a nod from PICARD, replies to Geordi.
RIKER
Stand by for subwarp; head for
standard orbit of Data's planet.
(to Picard)
Wonder why Data hasn't come up
here.
PICARD
He said he wanted to be alone.
Perhaps it's a bigger moment for
him than we thought.
(turns to Wesley)
If he needs a formal invitation,
Ensign, you do the honors.
WESLEY
(to his feet)
Yes sir!
Wesley heads quickly toward the turbolift.
PICARD
Walk!
Wesley slows to a walk.
3 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
Totally bare except for a quite sophisticated wall
computer and a mirror on a tripod which DATA now stands
in front of watching himself. He SNEEZES. It is not
a good sneeze, comes off rather artificial. Data tries
again, harder... but not much better. Then a CHIME
and Wesley ENTERS.
WESLEY
(excitedly)
Data... !
Data SNEEZES a third time. Wesley stops, puzzled.
WESLEY
(continuing)
What are you doing?
DATA
Sneezing.
WESLEY
Have you got a... a "cold?"
DATA
A cold what?
WESLEY
It's a disease my mother says
people used to get.
DATA
(nods)
Ah. But humans still sneeze for
other reasons and I cannot seem
to do it right.
Another artificial sounding SNEEZE.
WESLEY
How can you be practicing sneezing
when you're arriving for the first
time at your home planet? Aren't
you interested in that?
Without changing tone of voice or expression, Data
heads with Wesley for the door of the cabin.
DATA
More than interested. Fascinated.
One might say agog. But I find
sneezing interesting also.
4 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
From the Main Viewer WE CAN SEE that the starship is
at subwarp now, and a rather BROWNISH LOOKING PLANET
IS COMING INTO VIEW in the distance.
TASHA
(checking readings)
Confirming Class M reading there.
But...
(checks readings)
... but the sensors aren't showing
any life readings. Not even
vegetation.
PICARD
Strange. The cruiser that found
Data reported farmland here.
Data and Wesley EMERGE from the turbolift, CROSS ONTO
the bridge. Riker turns to Data, indicates Helm.
RIKER
Want to take her into orbit, Data?
DATA
No thank you, sir.
Riker, surprised, indicates for Wesley to fill Data's
Helm position again. Data instead, walks forward and
examines the PLANET COMING CLOSER, more than filling
the Main Viewer screen. All eyes are on Data as he
examines his home planet on the viewer, then turns and
moves back to take a seat in the Command Area.
PICARD
Continue on into close parking
orbit.
GEORDI
Aye, sir.
DATA
(beat; to Picard)
I could say "home, sweet home,"
sir... if I understood how the
word sweet applies.
PICARD
It usually refers to the memories.
RIKER
But usually one's own memories,
Captain.
(to Data)
Do the memories you were given
include "farms?"
DATA
Affirmative, sir. Turning soil,
seeding, harvesting... but the
colony's principal interest was
science.
TASHA
Data, I can't understand how you
can hold the memories of four
hundred eleven people. If that
means every experience, every day
they lived...
DATA
It does not, unfortunately. It
means only the knowledge they had
accumulated. Actually, I am quite
deficient in some basic human
information.
(to Picard)
Sneezing, for example.
PICARD
"Sneezing?"
GEORDI
Approaching close parking orbit,
sir.
PICARD
(to Riker)
Assemble your away party,
Commander.
Riker stands; Picard smiles at Data.
PICARD
(continuing)
This is an exciting moment for
you, Data. I'm tempted to lead
the away team down myself, except
for the fact the first officer
would object...
RIKER
How would Starfleet judge me if
I didn't, sir? An entire Earth
colony did disappear down there.
As Riker stands, replacements are ENTERING to take over
the bridge positions of Geordi, Worf and Tasha who will
move to the turbolift with him.
WORF
(to Data)
You have no memory at all of what
happened to them, Data?
DATA
My final memory is of great
danger, something sudden and not
understood... then a blank as if
the colonists were gone.
GEORDI
Now in close parking orbit, sir.
PICARD
Welcome home, Mister Data.
Data looks puzzled at this. Then he joins the away
team which EXITS the bridge.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
5 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN ORBIT (OPTICAL)
The starship in close orbit of Data's home planet.
6 EXT. DATA'S PLANET (OPTICAL)
The Away Team of Riker, Data, GEORDI, TASHA and WORF
MATERIALIZING on the planet surface. Far from it
looking like farmland, the place is barren. They
stand for a moment looking around -- Worf is alert to
any security problems -- Tasha scans with her tricorder
-- Riker is carefully looking over their surroundings
-- Geordi kneels, inspecting the ground.
TASHA
(to Riker)
Recording signal now locked onto
the Enterprise, sir.
RIKER
(to Geordi)
This looks like anything but
farmland.
GEORDI
Agreed, sir. The soil here's
completely lifeless.
RIKER
This is the exact position listed
in the Tripoli log.
(turning
Do you recognize anything, Data?
DATA
The land contours are familiar,
sir. Topographically, this is
the correct area.
Interrupted by Geordi who has begun crumbling soil
close to his nose, examining it as he lets the
fragments fall from his hand.
GEORDI
This once was rich farmland. I'd
guess something like twenty to
thirty years ago...
DATA
I was discovered twenty-six years
ago...
GEORDI
(still sifting soil)
There is still plant cellulose
in the soil. No signs of decay.
Also no signs of bacteria either.
(looks up)
If you don't mind a wild guess,
sir, I'd say everything on this
planet could have been dead or
dying at the time Data was found.
RIKER
The Tripoli log stated that all
plant life appeared brown and
"dormant." They assumed it was
normal for that season.
GEORDI
... whereas actually everything
was dying...
DATA
(interrupting;
indicating)
I was found twenty meters in that
direction, sir.
Data begins leading the way toward a narrow ledge
leading down into a depression.
7 ANOTHER ANGLE
as all follow Data's lead.
TASHA
(moving alongside Data)
Data, any idea at all why you were
given the colonists' memories?
DATA
I have always felt that it was
done hurriedly, but I know little
more.
Data stops where a small rectangular depression has
been carved in the rock.
DATA
(continuing)
Here, sir. This is where the
cruiser's landing party found
the signal device that had led
them here.
(indicates)
And they found me lying there,
sir.
8 ANOTHER ANGLE
Data is leading them to a very undistinguished-looking
stone pallet. This and the barren location look to
be considerably less than the exciting mystery they
have expected.
TASHA
You were just lying out in the
open? No identity record, no
instructions... ?
DATA
Only a layer of dust.
Data bends, BLOWS, and a CLOUD OF DUST ARISES from the
pallet.
DATA
(continuing)
There's much more of it now, after
twenty-six years.
Only Geordi shows active interest in this place. He
has moved off to begin scanning the area from different
perspectives.
RIKER
What is the first thing you
remember, Data?
DATA
Opening my eyes and finding myself
looking into the eyes of the
Tripoli landing party, sir.
(MORE)
DATA (Cont'd)
(indicating the path
back)
They believed that the signal
device sensed their presence,
and activated me.
TASHA
Then this very spot was your
birthplace...
DATA
But not at all like a human birth.
Having the colonists' memories,
I knew immediately how to speak,
who I was, where I was...
TASHA
You were born and became fully
knowledgeable at the same instant!
DATA
I had no idea that was unusual,
of course.
TASHA
It's such a strange place to be
born.
RIKER
So was a manger.
WORF
A "manger," sir?
RIKER
I won't even try to explain that
one, Worf...
GEORDI
(calling)
I understand now, sir! I've got
this figured!
Geordi moves in, indicating aspects of the area.
GEORDI
(continuing)
It was really very cleverly done
to make this look like a natural
hollow in the terrain here.
Signs of it being constructed
hurriedly...
9 SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE
Geordi moves to the rock face behind Data's "birth
pallet," examining it very closely.
GEORDI
... as if to hide something here.
Data nods, seeming to understand more of this now.
DATA
Yes, that was it, Geordi.
(to Riker)
This has awakened a memory
remnant of how the colonists
hoped to remain hidden...
(beat; concentrating)
... but their fear of being
discovered led to their storing
information in me.
Geordi has brought his VISOR device within inches of
a point on the rock facing.
GEORDI
Yes, I thought so.
Geordi brings a finger carefully to an almost invisble
crack on the rock facing... presses! A HUMMING SOUND
and a SPECIAL EFFECT opening in the rock facing
APPEARS.
10 INT. UNDERGROUND COMPLEX - ANGLE INTO THE ENTRY
A curving tunnel. Geordi steps in closer, Riker and
Data pressing in next. Geordi reaches out, touching
something that suddenly ILLUMINATES the tunnel.
Tasha, duty always, steps forward and scans the tunnel.
Then to Riker:
TASHA
No life readings in here either,
sir.
Riker leads the way as the team cautiously heads into
the tunnel. Worf and Tasha flank him, weapons ready,
as they move into a rectangular corridor.
11 ANOTHER ANGLE
as they continue to an intersecting corridor which
features a familiar-looking type of sliding metal door.
Geordi again makes a close examination of this, then
touches a sensor switch. The sliding door OPENS.
12 INT. COLONY LABORATORY
Similar to some very sophisticated things we've seen
on the Enterprise, the lab is filled with equipment
and instruments of the most sophisticated twenty-fourth century
level. In addition to workbenches, etc. there is a
prominent covered worktable which will figure in scenes
here. The team ENTERS with Tasha at the lead, weapon
in hand -- and with Worf professionally guarding their
rear at the door to the corridor they entered from.
Riker scans the lab.
RIKER
The colony laboratory, I'd guess.
Extremely well equipped.
(to Data)
Does this place stir any memories,
Data?
DATA
Only vague impressions of some
of my functions being tested
here, sir...
Data indicates, moves toward a wall on which proud
scientist parents had posted their children's drawings.
Several of them PICTURE a crystal-like formation or
design, obviously huge judging from the very tiny
people who seem to be fleeing from it. Data pulls one
of these drawings free, hands it to Riker.
RIKER
Posted by a proud parent...
DATA
(continuing)
This pictures something that feels
familiar, sir. And dangerous,
although I have no idea what it
represents. And that is all...
Then Data indicates a desk/workbench combination which
includes highly sophisticated-looking devices.
DATA
(continuing)
... except for an impression that
this was a... "Doctor Soong's"
work area.
RIKER
Who? You can't mean Doctor
Noonien Soong?
DATA
(nods)
He was called that here...
although, his memories indicate
he traveled here under a different
name.
GEORDI
Doctor Noonien Soong, my friend,
just happens to have been Earth's
foremost robotics scientist!
TASHA
Until he tried to make Asimov's
dream of a positronic brain come
true.
RIKER
(nodding)
The positronic brain. He promised
it would do so much. When it
failed completely, Doctor Soong
disappeared.
(eyes Data)
Now we know he went off somewhere
to try a second time.
(turns; indicating)
Geordi, Data, we'll take a close
look at this lab.
(to Tasha)
You and Lieutenant Worf
reconnoiter where the rest of
these corridors lead.
Tasha and Worf EXIT, AD LIBBING "Aye, sir." Geordi
and Data choose areas to inspect while Riker
concentrates on the Soong workbench.
13 ANOTHER ANGLE
Riker moves to the large, thick laboratory table
mentioned earlier. Whatever they've found out about
it has lead Riker now to touch a control on it -- and
it now hinges apart HUMMING and presenting the torso
and head part of a human-shaped mold. Seeing what is
happening, Geordi and Data hurry over.
GEORDI
(beat)
Data... it's you.
Data hesitates, then reaches in and extracts a one-half
head and shoulders portion of the mold, presses it
against himself. It fits perfectly!
RIKER
An epidermal mold, I'd guess.
Made to give your exterior the
desired finish.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Lieutenant Yar to Commander Riker.
Riker touches his insignia.
RIKER
Come in, Lieutenant.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Sir... this installation is big
enough to hold hundreds of people.
But all that's here now is empty
beds.
RIKER
Thank you, Lieutenant. Complete
your record scans, then report
back here.
GEORDI
Sir...
(bends)
Seems to be a storage area here...
Geordi has indeed discovered a storage area which he
now opens. All three of them look, REACT.
14 ANGLE INCLUDING STORAGE AREA
which REVEALS enough Data-like arms, torso and head
to startle us. It also startles our away team members.
The head looks surprisingly lifelike! (There are more
Data-like parts further back in the storage area,
apparontly enough to make up a whole Data if put
together.)
15 ANGLE ON DATA, RIKER, AND GEORDI
stunned.
RIKER
How many more Datas are there?
GEORDI
(looking around)
Looks like just these two...
(quickly apologetic)
I mean that and the real Data.
16 PANNING THE REAL DATA
and REVEALING the "DATA" HEAD as he bends to examine
"himself."
17 INCLUDING RIKER AND GEORDI
as Data straightens up INTO THE SCENE with them.
DATA
Commander, can this be another
me? Or perhaps my brother?
RIKER
I honestly don't know, Data.
DATA
He needs assembling.
RIKER
"He?" Data, we don't know that
this could become "alive."
DATA
It is of great interest to me to
find out, sir. I never believed it
possible I might have a link with
some form like my own.
RIKER
(beat; nods)
Understood. We'll take it back
to the ship, of course.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
18 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
Picard, Riker, Geordi, Tasha, Worf, Brant and Wesley at their
regular positions. Tasha is receiving a subspace
message, turns now toward Picard.
TASHA
Captain, I have a subspace reply
to your request.
(turns to Picard)
Starfleet considers it vital we
begin our ship's computer upgrade
at Starbase Armus Nine on
schedule.
PICARD
(annoyed)
Damn. Can anyone see why they've
turned down a perfectly legitimate
request to finish this
investigation here?
WESLEY
(waits; then)
Sir... you asked for the kind of
computer upgrade that only the
Bynars can handle. And they're
available only at this time.
Picard is at first annoyed at Wesley, then turns to
Riker, snapping an order:
PICARD
Then, get us there on schedule,
Number One.
(to Wesley; controlling
self)
Thank you, Wesley. I'd completely
forgotten that.
Wesley starts to say something more, but Riker quiets
Wesley with a friendly warning gesture.
RIKER
Take us out of orbit, Mister La
Forge.
19 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
We hold on our starship long enough to see it LEAVING
orbit of Data's home planet.
PICARD (V. O.)
(continuing)
Captain's log, Stardate 41242.45.
Despite having only a few hours
in which to explore Data's home
planet...
20 INT. SICKBAY
Where Doctor Crusher and CHIEF ENGINEER ARGYLE work
with Medical and Engineering Specialists at an advanced
type operating table containing the various parts of
the unassembled android which was discovered.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... we have discovered something
which may explain Data's
beginnings... if we can properly
assemble and communicate with what
we've found.
21 ANGLE EMPHASIZING DATA
An expression of hope and longing on his face as he
watches the medical and engineering people at work on
the unassembled android.
Doctor Beverly Crusher MOVES INTO SHOT with Data. She
understands what the unassembled android means to him
and her sympathy is obvious.
BEVERLY
Signal from the captain. They
need you at the debriefing.
Data nods as Chief Engineer Argyle MOVES INTO SHOT also,
his sympathy obvious too.
DATA
I've been anxious to hear the
chief engineer's opinion, Mister
Argyle. Do you believe he can
be made to function?
STAR TREK: "Datalore" - 10/26/87 - ACT TWO 18.
21 CONTINUED:
ARGYLE
It appears to include all the
components in your body. Not that
we really understand your
construction either...
BEVERLY
We'll have our top medical and
engineering specialists working
on its assembly, Mister Data.
The Doctor and Engineer appear to hesitate over
something uncomfortable. Data nods at their previous
statement, moves as if to leave.
ARGYLE
Just... one thing. Without
disassembling you, of course, if
we should need...
BEVERLY
... If we should need to compare
this with the way... uh, with the
way you're put together... ?
Data nods his answer, turns and EXITS.
22 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL)
Outside, the passing stars reflect the fact our
starship is at warp speed to make up for the delay at
Data's planet. On the table, the child's drawing of a
strange crystalline shape.
Present are Picard, Riker, and Geordi. As before,
they will continue treating Data as a living person
but at times they may try a bit too hard to make that
feeling clear. For some, their first meeting with Data
was many years ago and they have long thought of him
simply as a fellow crewmember. Now, with the discovery
of the disassembled android form, they've been suddenly
reminded that their friend is also a machine. It
brings their emotions into play because they're
concerned for Data. How does he feel about this
remarkable happening? What should they say to him --
what words should they now use or not use? Meanwhile,
Picard is speaking to Riker:
PICARD
Bringing it up here was the right
thing to do, of course, Number
One.
Picard trails his words as Data ENTERS and seats
himself. Despite themselves, everyone stiffens a bit.
PICARD
(continuing)
I was just saying, Data, that if
it functions, it might answer a
lot of questions for us.
Data feels the tension too. He's sharing their
discomfort, merely nodding at the captain's comment.
An uncomfortable beat, then:
RIKER
Does it appear to have all
your... ah, parts?
DATA
Completely, sir.
GEORDI
(beat)
Will we know how to... to "turn
it on?"
PICARD
All right, all right...
(stands; hesitates,
then)
Legitimate questions about this
need not be asked apologetically.
(to Data)
You're uncomfortable about aspects
of your duplicate, Data... we're
uncomfortable, too... and none of
it for any logical reason. We
know that you're as "alive" as
any of the rest of us.
(to the others)
If you find it awkward to be
reminded that Data is a
"machine"... you might remember
that the rest of you are merely
a different variety of
machine... in our case,
electro-chemical in nature.
(MORE)
PICARD (Cont'd)
(sits)
Let's begin handling this as we
would anything else.
A grin has come over Riker's face during this and he
TAPS his knuckles on the table approvingly. Geordi
looks up, SLAPS the table.
GEORDI
Agreed! Love that captain!
PICARD
(snaps)
My comments, Lieutenant, do not
require applause!
GEORDI
Yes, sir; sorry, sir.
But as the captain now turns toward the others, Riker
flashes Data a big wink. Data looks puzzled.
PICARD
Let's start with you, Data.
DATA
Well... a good starting point might
be, "Why was I given human form?"
GEORDI
To make it easy for humans to
relate to you. Had to be. But
your designer may have had
something else to prove also.
PICARD
(nods)
That human-shaped robots need not
be clumsy, limited things...
(turning)
You certainly operate as well as
we do, Data...
DATA
In some ways better, sir.
PICARD
Ah... yes! But the important
question now may be what happened
to the colonists.
RIKER
Agreed.
(exhibits child's
drawing)
One of several exhibited in the
lab, by proud parents, no doubt.
This could be simply a child's
imagination. But then, several
children made similar drawings.
A COM SIGNAL, followed by:
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Doctor Crusher to Captain. At
this point, sir, we very much need
Mister Data's help.
Data is already coming to his feet as Picard gives him
a nod. As Data EXITS:
PICARD
He's on his way, Doctor.
23 INT. SICKBAY - DATA AND BEVERLY
standing well away from the medical and engineering
technicians, talking quietly. Data presses a finger
at the spot which on humans would be between the second
and third joint of his spinal column. He also checks
that none of the others are watching too closely.
DATA
There, Doctor. Press your fingers
there.
Beverly moves in and complies. Then a look of slight
surprise on her face.
24 INSERT - BEVERLY'S HAND
At the described spot on Data's back -- the fingers
pressing almost their full length through Data's
uniform fabric and into his back.
DATA (O. S.)
It operates somewhat like a
"switch," Doctor.
25 BACK TO SHOT
Beverly pressing further.
BEVERLY
And these small projections?
DATA
An android alarm clock, Doctor.
Is that amusing?
(sees it isn't)
It times how long I remain
unconscious.
Beverly sees someone APPROACHING, quickly drops her
hand away. It is Chief Engineer Argyle who carries
what we'll later see are "high temp heat molders" used
to join together Data's "skin."
ARGYLE
Are you certain about us using
these heating devices, Data?
DATA
(nods)
I will feel nothing at all.
ARGYLE
(smiles)
Marvelous. It should all be a
lot simpler... once we can see how
your circuitry's connected.
Argyle MOVES OFF to discuss the molding devices with
the Technicians. Beverly turns to Data who is watching
her closely, expectantly. She nods:
BEVERLY
I'll mention it to no one. You
have my word.
DATA
If you had an off-switch
Doctor... would you not keep it
secret?
BEVERLY
I probably would.
26 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling against a background of stars at warp speed.
27 INT. SICKBAY - WIDE ANGLE
Two Data-like forms on two operating tables next to
each other. Neither of the Data look-alikes is moving,
and the torso of each is all but hidden by the medical
scanners over the tables. At one of the tables, the
mixed engineering and medical team is gathered. Argyle
and Beverly are reaching in, intent on what they are
seeing and doing.
28 CLOSER ANGLE AT THE BUSY TABLE
We're unable to tell whether this is Data or the
look-alike. Whichever, it is unmoving as Beverly and
Argyle lean in to peer closely at what is under the
sensor hood.
ARGYLE
Yes, notice the micro-circuitry
here... and here.
29 CLOSE UNDER SENSOR HOOD (OPTICAL)
Revealing some of a Data-like torso in which a flap has
been cut open TO REVEAL a bit of complex android body
interior in which WE SEE low-level PURPLE AND GREEN
FLICKERING. Argyle's hand is pointing a finger at
something.
ARGYLE (O.S.)
Then another fibroid-like
connection here.
30 ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND ARGYLE
As he withdraws his hand, looks to her for
confirmation. Beverly nods, reaches for one of the
heat molding instruments.
BEVERLY
Let's close up.
She reaches the heat molding instrument in under the
sensor hood.
31 CLOSE UNDER SENSOR HOOD (SPECIAL EFFECTS)
as Beverly's hand presses the "skin" flap shut, applies
the heat molder against it. A HISSING SOUND,
SMOKE... and when the heat molder is removed, the "skin"
flap has been sealed closed without a mark left.
32 INT. CORRIDOR
Picard and Riker striding toward Sickbay.
33 INT. SICKBAY - CLOSE ON DATA
A slightly groggy Data at one of the operating tables,
finishes slipping into his uniform. Beverly moves
INTO SHOT, looks at the other android form, speaking
quietly.
BEVERLY
If I've done it right, he'll
switch on in a minute.
34 WIDER ANGLE
as Picard and Riker ENTER Sickbay. Chief Engineer
Argyle is closest and gets a questioning look from
Picard.
ARGYLE
It seemed to go well...
(indicates)
... thanks to a look inside Mister
Data. But there have been no
signs of consciousness, yet...
Picard and Riker CROSS TOWARD the operating table which
holds the unmoving android Form. Data and Beverly
CROSS IN too.
35 ANGLE INCLUDING ANDROID, PICARD AND RIKER
The Data-like Android. Picard and Riker STEP IN, look
down at it.
RIKER
Certainly a perfect match for
Data, sir.
PICARD
(uncertain)
Do you think so, really?
(leans in; inspects)
I wonder which of them was made
first?
The LORE android opens its eyes.
LORE
He was. But they found him
imperfect and I was made to
replace him.
36 ANOTHER ANGLE
Data SURGING IN, surprised. Lore looks up at him, then
back to Picard. Its face twitches once -- a nervous
tic we'll see again.
LORE
You may call me Lore.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
37 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling at warp eight against a star background.
38 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard and Data considering the Lore happening.
PICARD
I'm also a bit troubled by it
describing you as "imperfect."
DATA
Human language gives me
difficulties too, sir.
"Imperfect" could mean I lack
abilities that he possesses.
PICARD
I wonder. But the point of this
is whether you and it have
approximately the same
capabilities.
DATA
We do, sir, and your referring
to him as an "it"... suggests I
too fit into the category of a
"thing."
It is a fair shot at Picard and he recognizes it,
nodding sincerely.
PICARD
I see your point, Commander. My
sincere apologies.
DATA
Gladly accepted, sir. As for
Lore's abilities, his use of
syntax and grammar suggests he
was given human memories similar
to mine.
PICARD
You both have about equal
physical strength and mental
ability?
DATA
I believe so, sir.
PICARD
(troubled)
Which requires I now ask you... a
very serious question. Since the
two of you are closely related
to each other...
DATA
The answer, sir, is that my
loyalty is to you and Starfleet.
Completely.
PICARD
(beat; small smile)
Thank you, Commander. I was
certain of that.
39 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Lore is now wearing a plain-colored utility uniform
without rank or insignia. It includes pocket-pouches
and a turtle-necked kind of undergarment beneath.
His only other difference from Data is in the fact he
often smiles (perhaps with a suggestion of
insincerity), plus his occasional facial "tic" or
twitch. He is now seated in Wesley's position at the
Helm next to Geordi who is pointing out various
controls. Wesley, standing behind that position, and
Riker at Command, seem a bit uncertain of this
android. The other regulars watch approvingly.
GEORDI
And Helm control are here, with
the ship's heading given in
measurements, we call them
"degrees"...
(indicating)
... with three hundred-sixty of
them in a full circle this way.
LORE
... Then you say "mark"...
40 EMPHASIZING DATA (OPTICAL)
who has left the Ready Room and CROSSES IN, stopping to
watch and listen.
GEORDI
On the nose!
WESLEY
Which separates it from another
three hundred-sixty degree full
circle like this... on a right
angle to that one.
LORE
(demonstrating)
So by ordering a heading so many
degrees this way, and so many this
way, the ship can travel in any
direction. All three dimensions.
RIKER
And the square of the hypotenuse
of a right triangle...
LORE
Is equal to the sum of the square
of its other two...
(stops; covering)
... its two "somethings"... which
I once heard but never understood.
Riker and Wesley exchange a look at this juncture.
Data has stopped to watch this exchange with interest
also. Now, he moves toward Lore with a friendly tone.
DATA
All of which you can learn more
about, when the captain has
approved your being on the bridge.
LORE
(surprise and
contrition)
Have I committed an offense?
WESLEY
(pleasantly)
You'll find as I have that
starships are loaded with rules
which have to be learned.
But Wesley's expression also indicates he has begun to
have some doubts about Lore -- especially now when he
hears:
LORE
You're very clever, Wesley.
(to Data)
I now have duties to perform.
Correct?
Except for Riker and Wesley, the rest of the bridge
crew is enjoying Lore.
WORF
Were you ever this anxious to
please, Data?
DATA
Never. I judge Lore to be
superior in that desire as well.
LORE
Because I was designed to be so
human, my brother, I enjoy pleasing
humans.
GEORDI
"My brother." That has a nice
sound, Data.
DATA
(to Lore)
And you consider it important to
please humans?
LORE
It's not important?
DATA
(beat)
There are many things of
importance... some more so than
others.
Data indicates the turbolift, guides Lore in that
direction. Lore seems eager to cooperate as they EXIT
into the turbolift.
41 INT. TURBOLIFT
Data speaks toward the panel.
DATA
My quarters.
At which, the turbolift HUMS into life and powers
downward.
LORE
Is my brother that important?
It knows you?
DATA
It can identify any of the crew.
(eyes Lore)
Just as I can identify flattery,
brother.
LORE
I used it only to please you, my
brother. Is that forbidden too?
DATA
It is best used when it reflects
genuine feelings.
LORE
Then, I used it properly with you.
41A INT. CORRIDOR
as Data and Lore ENTER from the turbolift, move down
the corridor.
DATA
(beat)
Do you realize Commander Riker's
hypotenuse question tricked you
into showing your knowledge was
much greater than you were
indicating?
LORE
He didn't seem that clever. I'll
be more careful.
DATA
You tend to underestimate humans,
my brother. The way you praised
young Wesley at the Helm, for
example...
LORE
A child!
DATA
He has a child's body, but we have
found him to be much more than that.
LORE
Thank you for that information,
too.
(beat; eyeing Data)
You do care about how I perform.
I pledge to be worthy of your
teaching, my brother.
Data looks at Lore for a long moment as they walk.
42 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
A plain, almost unfurnished interior. The door from
the corridor slides OPEN and Data ENTERS with Lore who
takes a moment to examine the quarters. They include
mainly a large computer, but little more.
LORE
How would they describe this?
"Spartan?"
DATA
I have no need for places to sit
or sleep. Do you?
LORE
Do I appear that weak?
During which, Data has gone to his computer controls,
punched in an information request. The word DICTIONARY
COMES ONTO the viewer. Data touches the computer
controls again and CAMERA ZOOMS IN to show JEALOUSY
defined as "INTOLERANCE OF RIVALRY, OR HOSTILITY TOWARD
A RIVAL OR ONE BELIEVED TO HOLD AN ADVANTAGE." CAMERA
ZOOMS BACK to an expressionless Data.
LORE
What information are you
requesting?
DATA
Everything available on a Doctor
Noonien Soong.
Information on Soong is COMING UP on the computer.
Lore moves in as Data studies it as he continues
talking with Lore who nods at the last statement.
LORE
Good old "Often-Wrong Soong."
(sees Data's puzzlement)
A joke, brother. Actually, he
was a genius by human standards.
DATA
(reading computer
viewer)
But had destroyed his own
reputation by making what seemed
wild promises about his positronic
brain design... almost all of which
failed.
LORE
Promises he later proved to be
true...
(taps his head)
Which made you and I possible.
Our beloved "father."
(touches Data's uniform)
Will I soon have a uniform like
that, my brother?
The casual mention of "father" and the fast switch to
uniforms bothers Data. His reply contains some
annoyance.
DATA
If you get one the way I did,
Lore, it means four years at the
Academy, another three as ensign,
ten or twelve on varied space duty
in the lieutenant grades...
LORE
(interrupting)
... A system designed to compensate
for limited human abilities.
But you, my brother, have begun
thinking as humans do. You and
I are completely different from
them. Are you truly satisfied
with the memories and knowledge
of just a few hundred human
colonists? Suppose it could
reflect thousands... or a
million... or the knowledge of
hundreds of millions of life forms
of every kind?
They look at each other for a long beat. Lore's facial
"tic" happens again. Then:
DATA
How?
Oddly enough, Lore's face twitches again at that, too.
LORE
We will discuss it in time.
DATA
And will we also discuss which
of us was constructed first?
LORE
(surprised)
It would be foolish to
underestimate you, my brother.
(nods)
Yes, I lied when I said you were
made first. With good reason.
Doctor Soong made me perfect on
his first attempt. But he made
me so completely human that the
colonists became envious of me.
DATA
You lived with the colonists?
LORE
(nods)
Until they petitioned Soong to
design a more comfortable, less
perfect android. In other words,
you, my brother.
Data and Lore sit looking at each other, until:
LORE
(continuing)
For example, haven't you noticed
how easily I handle human speech?
I use their contractions... such
as isn't or can't. You say...
(mimicking formality)
... is not or cannot.
(MORE)
LORE (Cont'd)
(half singing it)
I say tomato, you say tomahto;
I say potato, you say potahto...
(amused)
A very old joke, but you also
have trouble with their humor,
too. Am I right?
DATA
(considers it; nods)
Quite true. I keep trying to be
more human... and keep failing.
LORE
Do you realize, my brother, that
I can help you become more human?
DATA
And... do you realize... Lore,
that I am obligated to report all
of this to our ship's captain?
LORE
I assumed as much when I began
studying you.
(moves to computer)
May I use this to learn more of
this vessel and its customs?
DATA
(nods)
Use it also to describe for the
captain the time you spent with
the colonists. Including all
you know about what happened to
them.
LORE
I promise a report with great
detail and accuracy.
DATA
Thank you, Lore. And now, I
have duties to perform, unless
you need something more.
LORE
I have more than I dreamed
possible, my brother.
Data EXITS.
43 ANGLE ON LORE AT COMPUTER
beginning to punch in information requests more
rapidly... then still more rapidly.
44 ANGLE ON VIEWER (OPTICAL)
providing starship information so rapidly now that the
viewer IMAGES ARE A BLUR.
45 CLOSE ON LORE
He seems to absorb this flood of information easily.
He is very pleased with himself.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
46 EXT SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still traveling at high warp speed.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41242.5.
We now have the full story of the
micro-engineering achievement
which produced Data... and Lore...
47 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - SCIENCE STATION (OPTICAL)
Intent upon the Science Station Viewer are Picard,
Riker and Beverly. Geordi, Betty, Wesley, Tasha and Worf are
on duty at their bridge stations.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... and of the tragedy which
deprived humanity of the
remarkable minds behind that.
Our first clue was a child's
drawing which showed a great,
complex crystal shape...
48 CLOSE INSERT ON VIEWER (OPTICAL)
as needed. The IMAGE there IS LORE'S REPORT which
includes a look at the child's drawing..
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... confirmed by Lore's report to
be an unknown kind of creature,
capable of stripping all life from
an entire world... insatiably
ravenous for the life force found
in intelligent forms like
us... which Lore explains it stored
in new crystal patterns... for
purposes which are unknown.
49 BACK TO SHOT OF MAIN BRIDGE
TASHA
But how did Data escape that
thing? Or Lore?
RIKER
Lore had been disassembled. He
explains it as jealousy from the
colonists. And Data wasn't yet
"alive" at that time.
PICARD
Which explains why Data could be
left outside in no danger from
the creature. Whatever happened
to the colonists, he would be
found by any Starfleet team that
responded to the signal being
transmitted.
TASHA
By which Doctor Soong left proof
behind that his experiment did
work.
RIKER
Captain, how believable do you
find that crystal thing?
PICARD
Having explored so little of just
our galaxy, I find anything
possible.
TASHA
(overlapping; puzzled
by readings)
Data, are you expecting Lore to
come up here? He left your
quarters some time ago.
DATA
To go... ?
TASHA
My Turbo-sensors say he went to
Deck One...
(turning to Worf)
Worf?
WORF
... where he examined some
microminiature work tools, then
some...
(squints at her Viewer)
... fine grind quadratanium... ?
DATA
Which is used in our construction.
(to Picard)
That particular compound is no
more suspicious, sir, than a human
looking for an antiseptic or an
ointment. Nevertheless, I should
check it out.
BEVERLY
You're watching everything he
does, Data? Is that the act of
a brother?
PICARD
The act of a Starfleet officer
obeying his captain, Doctor.
Tasha watches Data stand and EXIT the bridge. Then
she turns toward Picard.
TASHA
Speaking strictly as security
chief, Captain... how much can you
trust Data now?
The idea shocks some of the bridge crew.
PICARD
I trust him completely,
Lieutenant!
(then softer)
But everyone should also realize
you just asked a necessary and
legitimate security question.
TASHA
Thank you for explaining that,
sir.
50 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
where Lore has set out a champagne bottle from which
he fills stemmed glasses. Then, he pours silver metal
bits into one of the glasses, causing the champagne
momentarily to FIZZ WITH A SHRILL SOUND. It has hardly
settled down when the sliding door OPENS and Data
ENTERS. Lore manages to slip the vial into a pouch
in his utility uniform as he turns, smiling.
LORE
Lesson one in becoming more human,
my brother. You must observe all
human customs.
Data is surprised to see the champagne that Lore is
pointing out.
DATA
Champagne?
LORE
An ancient ritual, still practiced
when they celebrate events of
importance.
(picking up undoctored
glass)
My brother... I toast our
discovery of each other. May it
fill our lives with new meaning.
Data is surprised at this ritual being suggested. But
Lore is holding his glass in toast position and Data
sees no reason not to indulge Lore in this. He picks
up his own glass. Lore drinks the full glass; Data
takes a couple of sips, sets the glass down and looks
up.
DATA
I have some doubts about the value
of human... customs in this...my...
brother...
Data reels, begins slumping toward the floor as Lore
watches, pleased.
LORE
And let us toast also...
DATA
(thickly)
Brother... help me...
50 CONTINUED:
LORE
... also Doctor Soong who gave me
the full richness of human needs
and ambitions... a perfect match
for my mind, my body...
Data is slumping prone now, becoming unable to fight
the effects of the compound given him. Lore squats
to keep his face near to him.
LORE
(continuing)
And let us toast also the great
Crystal Entity... with which I
learned to communicate. Before
Doctor Soong disassembled me, I
earned its gratitude by revealing
the way to the colonists.
Data is close to being completely unconscious now.
LORE
(continuing)
Can you image its gratitude when
I give it the life on this
vessel... and when my cleverness
lets it safely feed upon crowded
worlds in the galaxy... ?
Satisfied with what he sees now, Lore begins stripping
down to the turtleneck undershirt beneath his utility
uniform.
51 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Only Riker, Geordi, Betty, Wesley and Worf on duty now. Worf
gets a reading which causes him to look toward Riker.
WORF
This is strange, sir. I show
Mister Data transmitting on a
subspace channel.
RIKER
He's been doing considerable
research on Doctor Soong's
background... but let's be sure.
(turns)
Wesley, can you look in on him
discreetly?
WESLEY
(coming to his feet
instantly)
Yes sir!
bridge crew watches Wesley EXIT, enjoying his youthful
eagerness.
52 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
where Data's android form now wears the utility
uniform, lying unconscious on the floor neatly parallel
to a cabin wall. Wearing Data's uniform and rank
insignia is Lore, now speaking into the computer.
LORE
... and upon arriving here you can
identify me as the machine named
"Data."
Any doubts as to the true identity of this Android are
resolved at the sight of Lore's facial "tic" or twitch.
WE HEAR the door CHIME.
LORE
(continuing)
End of message.
(turning computer off)
Come in, please.
Wesley ENTERS, stops in surprise at the sight of an
android in utility uniform lying unconscious on the
floor.
LORE
(continuing)
Glad you are here, Wesley. Lore
suddenly attacked me and I had
to turn him off.
WESLEY
Why did he do that, Data?
LORE
He discovered we have been
using sensors to follow what
he does.
Lore's facial twitch happens. Wesley REGISTERS
SURPRISE at this happening.
LORE
(continuing)
I practiced his facial "tic."
Do I have it right?
WESLEY
I'd suggest you forget imitating
him...
(smiles)
... because if you had said "We've
been using the sensors," instead
if "we have," I might have
suspected you were Lore.
LORE
Yes. I do use language more
formally than Lore. Please
inform the captain I will come
up to the bridge...
(indicating unconscious
Form)
... and report on this.
WESLEY
Aye, sir.
CAMERA HOLDS ON LORE as Wesley EXITS. Then the facial
"tic" happens again and Lore turns to a cabinet and
extracts several hand devices, selects a heavy one.
53 CLOSE ON LORE
as he lifts the device to his face, touches a control
making it WHINE into power. Then another control which
causes it to BATHE THE FACIAL "TIC" AREA WITH
ELECTRONIC DISCHARGES WHICH APPEAR AS MINIATURE
"LIGHTNING BOLTS." He keeps at this "treatment" until
that part of his face BEGINS TO GLOW. Then he lowers
the device and as the GLOW FADES, then works his facial
muscles, testing them.
54 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still traveling at high warp against a star background.
55 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Any angles on the Main Viewer SHOW the same high warp
speed. The full bridge crew we saw earlier is on duty,
Wesley back at the Helm position, Beverly seated in
the Command Area again. Data hasn't returned, of
course. Picard ENTERS from his Ready Room, reflecting
annoyance as he speaks to Wesley.
PICARD
You're certain he said he'll be
right up?
WESLEY
He indicated that, sir.
TASHA
Sensors show Data just now
entering a turbolift, sir.
BEVERLY
(to Wesley)
Wes, tell me again how Data said
he immobilized Lore.
WESLEY
He said he "turned him off," Mom...
(quick correction)
... uh, Doctor.
Lore, in Data's uniform, ENTERS by turbolift. Beverly
eyes him, puzzled.
BEVERLY
(quietly)
Question, Mister Data... did you
or did you not swear me to secrecy
about your "off switch?"
LORE
(a slight hesitation)
A change of mind, Doctor. If I
cannot trust the bridge crew, whom
can I... ?
GEORDI
(interrupting; to
Picard)
Sir! I'm picking up a "bogey"
coming in on a five o'clock
tangent.
WESLEY
Confirm! And so fast it makes
our warp eight look like we're
standing still!
TASHA
It's transmitting no ID signal,
Captain...
RIKER
Set Main Viewer on that tangent.
Main Viewer SWITCHES to the indicated REAR ANGLE,
changing the relative star movement accordingly. As
the view magnifies, WE CAN SEE A TINY BRIGHT SPOT WHICH
STEADILY GROWS LARGER.
PICARD
Shields up; go to Yellow Alert!
Transmit friendly greetings, all
languages, all frequencies.
RIKER
I can't believe anything
overtaking us this fast.
LORE
Beautiful, isn't it?
Wesley pivots, EXPRESSING SURPRISE at this. The rest
of the bridge crew is too busy at their readings and
controls to notice.
RIKER
I recognize it, Captain... it's
similar to that child's drawing...
WE CAN NOW SEE that the IMAGE (computer generated?)
IS SHAPED LIKE THE CRYSTAL COMPLEX.
BEVERLY
My God, it's big!
55A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND CRYSTAL ENTITY (OPTICAL)
MOVING IN to float close to our starship, the
SHIMMERING CRYSTAL COMPLEXITY is very obvious. It
looks both very lovely and terribly powerful at the
same time.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
56 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND CRYSTAL ENTITY (OPTICAL)
The huge crystal form, two or three times the size of
the starship, SLOWLY SPINNING, pictorially dominating
the starship as it floats next to it.
57 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The complex crystal IMAGE on Main Viewer, still
SHIMMERING as it SLOWLY TURNS. Watching it are Picard,
Riker, Wesley, Tasha, Worf and "Lore."
TASHA
Still no ID transmitted, sir.
Also, no answer to our inquiries.
Geordi ENTERS hurriedly.
PICARD
Did you have a direct look at it?
GEORDI
It's like a snowflake crystal,
sir. But much more complex... the
entire electromagnetic spectrum
seems to play about inside it...
(seeing Picard's look)
I haven't the slightest idea what
it is, sir.
PICARD
Data, anything else Lore can tell
us about it may be important.
Can you control Lore enough to
question him?
LORE
(rising; moving to
turbolift)
I'll have to examine him to know,
sir.
Wesley, who has reacted uncomfortably to all this,
comes to his feet.
WESLEY
Captain, recommend you do not
let...
(hesitates)
... him move around the ship alone.
PICARD
Ensign... !
LORE
(interrupting;
chuckling)
Wesley is only trying to show
himself alert and responsible,
sir.
(to Wesley)
Something to encourage. Come,
you can watch everything I do.
WESLEY
Not if I have a choice.
PICARD
That is quite enough, Ensign!
When addressing a senior
officer...
RIKER
(interrupting)
I've guided his training; I'm the
one at fault, sir.
(to Wesley)
You will show proper courtesy,
and I'm taking you down there to
make certain of it!
(to Picard)
With your approval, of course,
sir.
Picard gives a wave of approval to Riker and a look
of annoyance to Wesley.
58 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
as last seen, with Data unconscious on the floor. The
door opens with Lore very cleverly managing to block
Riker's and Wesley's view as he takes a precautionary
look inside.
LORE
Careful of Lore...
(steps aside)
Good, he is still unconscious.
Wesley ENTERS with Riker.
LORE
(continuing; to Wesley)
The captain refused to listen to
you but you were right... Lore
can be extremely dangerous.
Lore has knelt with an arm going behind Data,
pretending to lift his head more upright to examine his
face. Then, even though unconscious, Data's face
twitches.
LORE
(continuing)
Notice? The same twitch, even
when he's unconscious... I suspect
that...
59 REVERSE CLOSE ANGLE
On Data's back where Lore's hand, hidden from view,
probes fingers toward the "switch" deep in Data's back.
LORE (O.S.)
... something went seriously wrong
during Lore's construction.
60 BACK TO SHOT
LORE
Stay back. We could have a
problem if he senses someone else
is near.
(bringing android
closer)
Lore, I have some questions to
ask you...
Data's eyes flicker open, rolling about.
61 REVERSE ANGLE
Again on Data's back -- Lore's fingers jabbing
viciously at the "switch" area.
62 BACK TO SHOT
Data's head begins to jerk about, then begins doing
it more and more violently and he begins making PAINED
SOUNDS -- then struggles as if to sit up, Lore
pretending to hold him down.
LORE
Lore, it is Data. I have a few
easy questions for you...
(pretending to control
Data)
He senses you!
(Data begins flailing)
I'm sorry, I can't control him
if you stay.
Wesley is still uncertain, but Riker feels obliged to
obey Picard's orders. He moves Wesley toward the door.
Data is beginning to flail rather wildly.
LORE
Please! I'll record anything he
says!
RIKER
And bring it to the bridge.
Immediately!
The cabin door IS OPENED as Riker GUIDES Wesley OUT.
Then the doors CLOSE. Then, Lore releases Data who
falls back prone and unconscious again.
63 ANOTHER ANGLE
Lore still turned toward the door area, an ugly
expression now on Lore's face.
LORE
And you want to be as stupid as
them... ?
Lore suddenly KICKS HARD at Data's head, knocking it
violently aside.
LORE
(continuing)
... dear brother!
He kicks again. Then again.
64 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
where Riker and Wesley are moving back to their
positions.
PICARD
Well, Number One?
RIKER
Sir, it's Lore... with the same
facial twitch we've all seen...
lying unconscious exactly as Data
described. But he became violent,
apparently sensing that Wesley
and I were present...
WESLEY
(interrupting)
Or is it Lore pretending to be
Data, and faking it all?
PICARD
I asked for Commander Riker's
report, "Acting Ensign" Crusher.
And since it is now clear you are
unable to function here within
the limits of that appointment...
Wesley has come to his feet expecting the worst but all
is now interrupted:
GEORDI
Captain!
Picard whirls at the sound of alarm in Geordi's
voice... and sees that the huge crystal shape is rapidly
MOVING IN toward the Enterprise. Reaching the
deflector shields area, it is deflected back somewhat,
but the smaller Enterprise is JOLTED MORE, SHAKING THE
BRIDGE CREW ABOUT.
TASHA
Deflector shields holding, sir.
PICARD
(keeping voice calm)
Bring photon torpedoes to ready;
main phasers to ready...
A flurry of activity from Tasha and Worf. Wesley has
quickly seated himself again, checking his controls as
the immense crystal shape now COMES AT THE ENTERPRISE
HARDER. The SHAKING this time is HEAVIER, and WE BEGIN
TO HEAR the SOUND OF STRUCTURAL STRAIN. Beverly COMES
OUT of a turbolift, concerned.
PICARD
(continuing: to Riker)
Go to Red Alert, please.
Riker hits a control and the ALERT SIGNAL begins
HONKING, the RED LIGHTS begin FLASHING. And Lore,
still in Data's uniform, COMES OUT of a turbolift on
the run.
WORF
(raising voice over it)
Weapons now ready, sir!
LORE
No, Captain, let me talk to it...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Why didn't you say you could?
Interrupted by the CRYSTAL SHAPE COMING at the
Enterprise still HARDER, with STRUCTURAL STRAIN HEARD
MUCH LOUDER this time. The shaking makes Lore grab
support as:
PICARD
(continuing)
Affirmative! Talk to it!
LORE
(whirling to Tasha)
Open hailing frequencies!
(as she hits switch)
Crystal Form, I identify myself
as "Data," advising you to stop
your attack. The humans here are
powerful, capable of injuring or
even destroying you. They can
be changed only in other ways.
The crystal shape stops, begins to BACK OFF from the
Enterprise, taking its earlier position.
GEORDI
Now I call that communicating.
WORF
But he mentioned "changing us,"
Captain. What does that mean?
Wesley looks back toward Worf thankfully.
LORE
It has many meanings, as any human
language dictionary could inform
you.
(to Picard)
Suggest moving fast to confirm
what I told it, sir. Permission
to use the large transporter in
Cargo Room Three? There I can
beam out some living pattern,
perhaps a large tree...
RIKER
Which you'll beam over next to
the entity...
LORE
You are correct, Riker.
(to Picard)
Our ship's phasers will then blast
and disintegrate it... proving
we're dangerous.
PICARD
Make it so!
LORE
Sir?
Which brings a slight change of expression onto
Picard's features.
PICARD
Do it!
Lore EXITS via turbolift. Wesley has come to his feet,
protesting.
WESLEY
Sir, I know this may finish me
as an acting ensign, but...
PICARD
Shut up, Wesley.
(turning)
Lieutenant Yar, pick a good
security team, let me know what
he does.
Yar turns to Worf, silently requesting him to handle
it. Worf gives a brisk "Aye, sir," EXITING via
turbolift.
Beverly has been watching Picard, troubled.
BEVERLY
"Shut up, Wesley?"
PICARD
Stay out of this, Madam...
WESLEY
Since I am finished here, Captain,
may I point out... ?
BEVERLY
Shut up, Wesley!
WESLEY
(still to Picard)
... that what I've said would have
been listened to if it came from
an adult officer. Request
permission to return to my
quarters, sir.
PICARD
Granted, if you take your mother
with you.
BEVERLY
(flaring)
You're putting me off the bridge?
PICARD
I'm asking that you keep an eye
on your son during this, Doctor.
WESLEY
Please, Mom. Let's go.
A hesitant Beverly lets Wesley accompany her to a
turbolift.
65 INT. CORRIDOR
where Worf and two Security People hurry toward a
turbolift door there. It OPENS... REVEALING Lore
waiting there. Worf REACTS, quickly steps toward Lore.
LORE
Emergency close!
Causing the turbolift doors to CLOSE in the face of
the Security People.
66 INT. TURBOLIFT
Worf, alone with Lore in the small cab, whirls toward
the android.
LORE
(continuing)
Now show me your warrior
fierceness.
Worf draws his small phaser fast... and Lore chops it
from his hand even faster. Worf pivots, his fist
striking powerfully at Lore who moves very fast,
deflects it and chops again at Worf, bringing a look of
surprised pain to Worf's face. Like a windmill, Lore
chops at Worf with one hand, then the next, then again
with the other -- and WE SEE Worf's knees beginning
to buckle.
68 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
with Data crumpled in a heap on the floor. No blood or
bruises appear on an android, but the epidermal
covering of his head is damaged, with pieces of it
hanging down.
WE HEAR a CHIME. Then a wait, then a MECHANICAL SOUND
AT THE DOOR which slides open TO REVEAL Wesley there
with Beverly who now has a major phaser on her belt.
BEVERLY
I'll look, but I should never
have let you talk me into this...
But Wesley presses ON INTO the room... then REACTS at
what he finds.
WESLEY
It's Data, Mom. He's been hurt!
Beverly COMES IN too, kneels at the utility-clad Form
there. Then the facial twitch happens. Beverly looks
up at Wesley, alarmed.
WESLEY
It's Data! For once will you
trust me about something?
Beverly looks questioningly at the unconscious android
form.
WESLEY
(continuing)
You must know how much Starfleet
means to me. But I'm finished
unless you can help me.
(touches her arm)
I heard you know how to turn them
on. Please?
Beverly pulls away, starts to rise.
BEVERLY
No, this is very serious...
WESLEY
I know, Mom. So tell me again
to "shut up, Wesley," and I will.
BEVERLY
You're being very unfair,
Wesley...
But Beverly still reaches to Data's back... then Data
opens his eyes and sits upright, examining Beverly and
Wesley.
WESLEY
Data, the Crystal Thing is outside
close to the ship... and Lore is
loose somewhere inside.
Data comes to his feet. A loose piece of epidermal
covering FLUTTERS to the floor, causing him to run a
hand over his facial damage.
BEVERLY
How badly are you hurt... Data?
DATA
I will function sufficiently to
stop Lore, Doctor...
Wesley is already OUT the door. Beverly and Data hurry
to FOLLOW.
69 INT. CORRIDOR TO CARGO THREE
Data, Beverly, Wesley hurry to a small door marked
"TRANSPORTER TECHNICIANS ONLY."
DATA
Whatever happens, it is important
that you two stay away from him.
Do not try to help me.
Both Wesley and Beverly nod agreement. Data tries the
door, it doesn't budge. Data gives an "I thought so"
nod, turns to a panel next to the door, punches in a
code... then easily pushes the door open.
70 INT. CARGO THREE TRANSPORTER ROOM
The small door has led to the Transporter Control Area.
Beyond past the large Transporter Platform are large
cargo doors used for bringing bulky cargo items in and
out. As Data, Beverly and Wesley ENTER, they stop,
freeze as they hear:
LORE (O.S.)
Good, you understand perfectly
so far. Next, I'll signal I'm
about to transport something
out...
Data is now moving in quietly, motioning Doctor and son
to stay back.
71 ANOTHER ANGLE
Lore standing at a computer where Data can see him now.
LORE
(continuing)
... at which time the deflector
shields will turn off for a
moment, and if you move in at
that time...
Lore suddenly stops in mid-sentence, turns and looks
directly at Data. Then, as if sensing someone else
there, Lore steps unexpectedly to one side... sees
Wesley and Beverly there.
DATA
How sad, dear brother. You have
made me wish I were an only child.
LORE
(raising phaser)
Then why this marvelous gift, my
brother? The troublesome little
man-child.
(circling; to Wesley)
Are you prepared for the kind of
death you've earned, little man?
This is too much for Beverly. She draws her major
phaser, aiming it at Lore.
BEVERLY
If you take one step toward my
son...
Startled, Data takes his eyes off Lore for just a
fraction of a second... enough for Lore to send Data
spinning to where he blocks Beverly's aim. Wesley
tries to move in to help but Lore has already chopped
again at Data, spinning into Beverly, easily taking
the phaser away from her. He makes a quick setting
on it. Data is coming to his feet to attack Lore.
LORE
Ah, motherhood!
(aims phaser at Wesley)
Back off or I'll turn your little
man into a torch!
Frightened for Wesley, Beverly backs off. Lore makes
another quick setting, holding phaser on Wesley.
LORE
I promise him exquisite pain
unless you obey me too, dear
brother.
BEVERLY
Move away, Data, please!
Data backs off a few steps.
LORE
Do you see now the advantages of
being completely human?
(to Beverly)
It includes kindness. I give you
your life, Doctor. Go, quickly
and I may not injure your son at
all.
Beverly is willing to die if it helps her son. But
leaving him this way?
DATA
I will stay with Wesley, Doctor.
LORE
Go! Or he'll be shrieking on the
count of five. One... two...
72 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL & SPECIAL EFFECTS)
Beverly panics, hurries toward the small door where
they had entered.
BEVERLY
I'll bring help, Wesley.
LORE
Thank you for my human quality,
Doctor Soong.
(aiming phaser)
Now a small payment for your son's
misdeeds.
LORE PHASERS BEVERLY, a BEAM which strikes her left
arm in a FLASH OF FIRE.
WESLEY
Mom!
Wesley turns, rushing at Lore... but Data reaches out,
stopping Wesley and holding him immobile. Meanwhile,
the PHASER BEAM has IGNITED Beverly's MEDICAL COAT
which she must now tear away one-handed, opening the
door the same way. As the EXITS, the door CLOSES but
with Lore distracted with the door, Data leaps at him
fast, shoving Wesley tumbling to safety. It is a
vicious android battle, both using incredible speed
and power. It SURGES OUT into the open room, toward
the big transporter platform.
75 ANGLE ON WESLEY
coming to his feet, alert to anything he can do to help
Data. He moves toward the conflict.
DATA
Stay back, Wesley! Help me some
other way!
Wesley backs off. Data and Lore in action that now
SURGES toward the transporter platform. Wesley,
desperately seeking some way to help, sees their
direction of movement... turns quickly toward the
transporter controls. Can this be it?
76 EMPHASIZING DATA AND LORE
at the edge of the transporter platform. Data now sees
where Wesley is standing -- he pretends to stumble,
faking Lore in over him -- then surges up to his full
height, tossing Lore onto the platform.
DATA
Wesley... now!
77 ANGLE ON WESLEY
already moving the controls.
78 ANGLE EMPHASIZING LORE (OPTICAL)
as he is beamed out into oblivion.
79 ANGLE ON SMALL DOOR
as it is FORCED OPEN, Picard, Riker, Tasha, with an
injured Beverly RUSH IN. Wesley rushes to his mother,
worried about her injuries.
WESLEY
(to Picard)
Lore's gone, sir, permanently!
PICARD
(to Beverly)
Now that your son's safe, Doctor,
report immediately to Sickbay.
Riker has noticed something happening on the computer
view screen.
RIKER
Captain... The crystal thing has
begun to move away.
79A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND CRYSTAL SHAPE (OPTICAL)
as the crystal thing MOVES AWAY from the starship,
accellerating, DISAPPEARING quickly into the distance.
79B INT. CARGO THREE TRANSPORTER ROOM
as a figure, clothed like Lore, MOVES IN toward the
Captain. As Picard looks him over, its face twitches.
PICARD
(continuing; beat;
eyeing him)
Data, get rid of that damned
twitch! And put on a correct
uniform.
79B CONTINUED:
DATA
Yes, Captain.
Data EXITS.
PICARD
And Ensign Crusher...
(as Wesley HURRIES IN)
... are you able to return to duty
now?
WESLEY
Yes, sir!
PICARD
Then do so! Let the bridge know
all is well down here.
Wesley HURRIES OFF too. Riker turns from another look
at at the view screen.
RIKER
It's gone, sir. Without Lore, it
had no way to reach us.
PICARD
(nods)
And we're overdue for our computer
refit.
(beat)
Number One, have you ever
considered whether Data is more
human, or less human than we want?
RIKER
(grins)
I only wish we were as well
balanced, sir.
PICARD
(beat; nods)
Agreed!
The two of them begin to EXIT.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling at high warp against an array of stars.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41242.4.
Our last assignment has taken us
into the remote Omicron Theta
star system, home of our android
crewmember Lieutenant Commander
Data. Although we are due...
2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Everyone at his regular station with the exception of
Data whose station is manned by WESLEY.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... at our next assignment, I have
decided to increase velocity to
warp eight to visit Data's home
planet for a few hours in the
hopes of unraveling some of the
mystery of his beginnings.
GEORDI turns to RIKER.
GEORDI
Sir, we are now twenty minutes
from Omicron Theta...
(checks reading)
... mark!
Riker gets a nod from PICARD, replies to Geordi.
RIKER
Stand by for subwarp; head for
standard orbit of Data's planet.
(to Picard)
Wonder why Data hasn't come up
here.
PICARD
He said he wanted to be alone.
Perhaps it's a bigger moment for
him than we thought.
(turns to Wesley)
If he needs a formal invitation,
Ensign, you do the honors.
WESLEY
(to his feet)
Yes sir!
Wesley heads quickly toward the turbolift.
PICARD
Walk!
Wesley slows to a walk.
3 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
Totally bare except for a quite sophisticated wall
computer and a mirror on a tripod which DATA now stands
in front of watching himself. He SNEEZES. It is not
a good sneeze, comes off rather artificial. Data tries
again, harder... but not much better. Then a CHIME
and Wesley ENTERS.
WESLEY
(excitedly)
Data... !
Data SNEEZES a third time. Wesley stops, puzzled.
WESLEY
(continuing)
What are you doing?
DATA
Sneezing.
WESLEY
Have you got a... a "cold?"
DATA
A cold what?
WESLEY
It's a disease my mother says
people used to get.
DATA
(nods)
Ah. But humans still sneeze for
other reasons and I cannot seem
to do it right.
Another artificial sounding SNEEZE.
WESLEY
How can you be practicing sneezing
when you're arriving for the first
time at your home planet? Aren't
you interested in that?
Without changing tone of voice or expression, Data
heads with Wesley for the door of the cabin.
DATA
More than interested. Fascinated.
One might say agog. But I find
sneezing interesting also.
4 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
From the Main Viewer WE CAN SEE that the starship is
at subwarp now, and a rather BROWNISH LOOKING PLANET
IS COMING INTO VIEW in the distance.
TASHA
(checking readings)
Confirming Class M reading there.
But...
(checks readings)
... but the sensors aren't showing
any life readings. Not even
vegetation.
PICARD
Strange. The cruiser that found
Data reported farmland here.
Data and Wesley EMERGE from the turbolift, CROSS ONTO
the bridge. Riker turns to Data, indicates Helm.
RIKER
Want to take her into orbit, Data?
DATA
No thank you, sir.
Riker, surprised, indicates for Wesley to fill Data's
Helm position again. Data instead, walks forward and
examines the PLANET COMING CLOSER, more than filling
the Main Viewer screen. All eyes are on Data as he
examines his home planet on the viewer, then turns and
moves back to take a seat in the Command Area.
PICARD
Continue on into close parking
orbit.
GEORDI
Aye, sir.
DATA
(beat; to Picard)
I could say "home, sweet home,"
sir... if I understood how the
word sweet applies.
PICARD
It usually refers to the memories.
RIKER
But usually one's own memories,
Captain.
(to Data)
Do the memories you were given
include "farms?"
DATA
Affirmative, sir. Turning soil,
seeding, harvesting... but the
colony's principal interest was
science.
TASHA
Data, I can't understand how you
can hold the memories of four
hundred eleven people. If that
means every experience, every day
they lived...
DATA
It does not, unfortunately. It
means only the knowledge they had
accumulated. Actually, I am quite
deficient in some basic human
information.
(to Picard)
Sneezing, for example.
PICARD
"Sneezing?"
GEORDI
Approaching close parking orbit,
sir.
PICARD
(to Riker)
Assemble your away party,
Commander.
Riker stands; Picard smiles at Data.
PICARD
(continuing)
This is an exciting moment for
you, Data. I'm tempted to lead
the away team down myself, except
for the fact the first officer
would object...
RIKER
How would Starfleet judge me if
I didn't, sir? An entire Earth
colony did disappear down there.
As Riker stands, replacements are ENTERING to take over
the bridge positions of Geordi, Worf and Tasha who will
move to the turbolift with him.
WORF
(to Data)
You have no memory at all of what
happened to them, Data?
DATA
My final memory is of great
danger, something sudden and not
understood... then a blank as if
the colonists were gone.
GEORDI
Now in close parking orbit, sir.
PICARD
Welcome home, Mister Data.
Data looks puzzled at this. Then he joins the away
team which EXITS the bridge.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
5 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN ORBIT (OPTICAL)
The starship in close orbit of Data's home planet.
6 EXT. DATA'S PLANET (OPTICAL)
The Away Team of Riker, Data, GEORDI, TASHA and WORF
MATERIALIZING on the planet surface. Far from it
looking like farmland, the place is barren. They
stand for a moment looking around -- Worf is alert to
any security problems -- Tasha scans with her tricorder
-- Riker is carefully looking over their surroundings
-- Geordi kneels, inspecting the ground.
TASHA
(to Riker)
Recording signal now locked onto
the Enterprise, sir.
RIKER
(to Geordi)
This looks like anything but
farmland.
GEORDI
Agreed, sir. The soil here's
completely lifeless.
RIKER
This is the exact position listed
in the Tripoli log.
(turning
Do you recognize anything, Data?
DATA
The land contours are familiar,
sir. Topographically, this is
the correct area.
Interrupted by Geordi who has begun crumbling soil
close to his nose, examining it as he lets the
fragments fall from his hand.
GEORDI
This once was rich farmland. I'd
guess something like twenty to
thirty years ago...
DATA
I was discovered twenty-six years
ago...
GEORDI
(still sifting soil)
There is still plant cellulose
in the soil. No signs of decay.
Also no signs of bacteria either.
(looks up)
If you don't mind a wild guess,
sir, I'd say everything on this
planet could have been dead or
dying at the time Data was found.
RIKER
The Tripoli log stated that all
plant life appeared brown and
"dormant." They assumed it was
normal for that season.
GEORDI
... whereas actually everything
was dying...
DATA
(interrupting;
indicating)
I was found twenty meters in that
direction, sir.
Data begins leading the way toward a narrow ledge
leading down into a depression.
7 ANOTHER ANGLE
as all follow Data's lead.
TASHA
(moving alongside Data)
Data, any idea at all why you were
given the colonists' memories?
DATA
I have always felt that it was
done hurriedly, but I know little
more.
Data stops where a small rectangular depression has
been carved in the rock.
DATA
(continuing)
Here, sir. This is where the
cruiser's landing party found
the signal device that had led
them here.
(indicates)
And they found me lying there,
sir.
8 ANOTHER ANGLE
Data is leading them to a very undistinguished-looking
stone pallet. This and the barren location look to
be considerably less than the exciting mystery they
have expected.
TASHA
You were just lying out in the
open? No identity record, no
instructions... ?
DATA
Only a layer of dust.
Data bends, BLOWS, and a CLOUD OF DUST ARISES from the
pallet.
DATA
(continuing)
There's much more of it now, after
twenty-six years.
Only Geordi shows active interest in this place. He
has moved off to begin scanning the area from different
perspectives.
RIKER
What is the first thing you
remember, Data?
DATA
Opening my eyes and finding myself
looking into the eyes of the
Tripoli landing party, sir.
(MORE)
DATA (Cont'd)
(indicating the path
back)
They believed that the signal
device sensed their presence,
and activated me.
TASHA
Then this very spot was your
birthplace...
DATA
But not at all like a human birth.
Having the colonists' memories,
I knew immediately how to speak,
who I was, where I was...
TASHA
You were born and became fully
knowledgeable at the same instant!
DATA
I had no idea that was unusual,
of course.
TASHA
It's such a strange place to be
born.
RIKER
So was a manger.
WORF
A "manger," sir?
RIKER
I won't even try to explain that
one, Worf...
GEORDI
(calling)
I understand now, sir! I've got
this figured!
Geordi moves in, indicating aspects of the area.
GEORDI
(continuing)
It was really very cleverly done
to make this look like a natural
hollow in the terrain here.
Signs of it being constructed
hurriedly...
9 SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE
Geordi moves to the rock face behind Data's "birth
pallet," examining it very closely.
GEORDI
... as if to hide something here.
Data nods, seeming to understand more of this now.
DATA
Yes, that was it, Geordi.
(to Riker)
This has awakened a memory
remnant of how the colonists
hoped to remain hidden...
(beat; concentrating)
... but their fear of being
discovered led to their storing
information in me.
Geordi has brought his VISOR device within inches of
a point on the rock facing.
GEORDI
Yes, I thought so.
Geordi brings a finger carefully to an almost invisble
crack on the rock facing... presses! A HUMMING SOUND
and a SPECIAL EFFECT opening in the rock facing
APPEARS.
10 INT. UNDERGROUND COMPLEX - ANGLE INTO THE ENTRY
A curving tunnel. Geordi steps in closer, Riker and
Data pressing in next. Geordi reaches out, touching
something that suddenly ILLUMINATES the tunnel.
Tasha, duty always, steps forward and scans the tunnel.
Then to Riker:
TASHA
No life readings in here either,
sir.
Riker leads the way as the team cautiously heads into
the tunnel. Worf and Tasha flank him, weapons ready,
as they move into a rectangular corridor.
11 ANOTHER ANGLE
as they continue to an intersecting corridor which
features a familiar-looking type of sliding metal door.
Geordi again makes a close examination of this, then
touches a sensor switch. The sliding door OPENS.
12 INT. COLONY LABORATORY
Similar to some very sophisticated things we've seen
on the Enterprise, the lab is filled with equipment
and instruments of the most sophisticated twenty-fourth century
level. In addition to workbenches, etc. there is a
prominent covered worktable which will figure in scenes
here. The team ENTERS with Tasha at the lead, weapon
in hand -- and with Worf professionally guarding their
rear at the door to the corridor they entered from.
Riker scans the lab.
RIKER
The colony laboratory, I'd guess.
Extremely well equipped.
(to Data)
Does this place stir any memories,
Data?
DATA
Only vague impressions of some
of my functions being tested
here, sir...
Data indicates, moves toward a wall on which proud
scientist parents had posted their children's drawings.
Several of them PICTURE a crystal-like formation or
design, obviously huge judging from the very tiny
people who seem to be fleeing from it. Data pulls one
of these drawings free, hands it to Riker.
RIKER
Posted by a proud parent...
DATA
(continuing)
This pictures something that feels
familiar, sir. And dangerous,
although I have no idea what it
represents. And that is all...
Then Data indicates a desk/workbench combination which
includes highly sophisticated-looking devices.
DATA
(continuing)
... except for an impression that
this was a... "Doctor Soong's"
work area.
RIKER
Who? You can't mean Doctor
Noonien Soong?
DATA
(nods)
He was called that here...
although, his memories indicate
he traveled here under a different
name.
GEORDI
Doctor Noonien Soong, my friend,
just happens to have been Earth's
foremost robotics scientist!
TASHA
Until he tried to make Asimov's
dream of a positronic brain come
true.
RIKER
(nodding)
The positronic brain. He promised
it would do so much. When it
failed completely, Doctor Soong
disappeared.
(eyes Data)
Now we know he went off somewhere
to try a second time.
(turns; indicating)
Geordi, Data, we'll take a close
look at this lab.
(to Tasha)
You and Lieutenant Worf
reconnoiter where the rest of
these corridors lead.
Tasha and Worf EXIT, AD LIBBING "Aye, sir." Geordi
and Data choose areas to inspect while Riker
concentrates on the Soong workbench.
13 ANOTHER ANGLE
Riker moves to the large, thick laboratory table
mentioned earlier. Whatever they've found out about
it has lead Riker now to touch a control on it -- and
it now hinges apart HUMMING and presenting the torso
and head part of a human-shaped mold. Seeing what is
happening, Geordi and Data hurry over.
GEORDI
(beat)
Data... it's you.
Data hesitates, then reaches in and extracts a one-half
head and shoulders portion of the mold, presses it
against himself. It fits perfectly!
RIKER
An epidermal mold, I'd guess.
Made to give your exterior the
desired finish.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Lieutenant Yar to Commander Riker.
Riker touches his insignia.
RIKER
Come in, Lieutenant.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Sir... this installation is big
enough to hold hundreds of people.
But all that's here now is empty
beds.
RIKER
Thank you, Lieutenant. Complete
your record scans, then report
back here.
GEORDI
Sir...
(bends)
Seems to be a storage area here...
Geordi has indeed discovered a storage area which he
now opens. All three of them look, REACT.
14 ANGLE INCLUDING STORAGE AREA
which REVEALS enough Data-like arms, torso and head
to startle us. It also startles our away team members.
The head looks surprisingly lifelike! (There are more
Data-like parts further back in the storage area,
apparontly enough to make up a whole Data if put
together.)
15 ANGLE ON DATA, RIKER, AND GEORDI
stunned.
RIKER
How many more Datas are there?
GEORDI
(looking around)
Looks like just these two...
(quickly apologetic)
I mean that and the real Data.
16 PANNING THE REAL DATA
and REVEALING the "DATA" HEAD as he bends to examine
"himself."
17 INCLUDING RIKER AND GEORDI
as Data straightens up INTO THE SCENE with them.
DATA
Commander, can this be another
me? Or perhaps my brother?
RIKER
I honestly don't know, Data.
DATA
He needs assembling.
RIKER
"He?" Data, we don't know that
this could become "alive."
DATA
It is of great interest to me to
find out, sir. I never believed it
possible I might have a link with
some form like my own.
RIKER
(beat; nods)
Understood. We'll take it back
to the ship, of course.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
18 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
Picard, Riker, Geordi, Tasha, Worf, Brant and Wesley at their
regular positions. Tasha is receiving a subspace
message, turns now toward Picard.
TASHA
Captain, I have a subspace reply
to your request.
(turns to Picard)
Starfleet considers it vital we
begin our ship's computer upgrade
at Starbase Armus Nine on
schedule.
PICARD
(annoyed)
Damn. Can anyone see why they've
turned down a perfectly legitimate
request to finish this
investigation here?
WESLEY
(waits; then)
Sir... you asked for the kind of
computer upgrade that only the
Bynars can handle. And they're
available only at this time.
Picard is at first annoyed at Wesley, then turns to
Riker, snapping an order:
PICARD
Then, get us there on schedule,
Number One.
(to Wesley; controlling
self)
Thank you, Wesley. I'd completely
forgotten that.
Wesley starts to say something more, but Riker quiets
Wesley with a friendly warning gesture.
RIKER
Take us out of orbit, Mister La
Forge.
19 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
We hold on our starship long enough to see it LEAVING
orbit of Data's home planet.
PICARD (V. O.)
(continuing)
Captain's log, Stardate 41242.45.
Despite having only a few hours
in which to explore Data's home
planet...
20 INT. SICKBAY
Where Doctor Crusher and CHIEF ENGINEER ARGYLE work
with Medical and Engineering Specialists at an advanced
type operating table containing the various parts of
the unassembled android which was discovered.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... we have discovered something
which may explain Data's
beginnings... if we can properly
assemble and communicate with what
we've found.
21 ANGLE EMPHASIZING DATA
An expression of hope and longing on his face as he
watches the medical and engineering people at work on
the unassembled android.
Doctor Beverly Crusher MOVES INTO SHOT with Data. She
understands what the unassembled android means to him
and her sympathy is obvious.
BEVERLY
Signal from the captain. They
need you at the debriefing.
Data nods as Chief Engineer Argyle MOVES INTO SHOT also,
his sympathy obvious too.
DATA
I've been anxious to hear the
chief engineer's opinion, Mister
Argyle. Do you believe he can
be made to function?
STAR TREK: "Datalore" - 10/26/87 - ACT TWO 18.
21 CONTINUED:
ARGYLE
It appears to include all the
components in your body. Not that
we really understand your
construction either...
BEVERLY
We'll have our top medical and
engineering specialists working
on its assembly, Mister Data.
The Doctor and Engineer appear to hesitate over
something uncomfortable. Data nods at their previous
statement, moves as if to leave.
ARGYLE
Just... one thing. Without
disassembling you, of course, if
we should need...
BEVERLY
... If we should need to compare
this with the way... uh, with the
way you're put together... ?
Data nods his answer, turns and EXITS.
22 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL)
Outside, the passing stars reflect the fact our
starship is at warp speed to make up for the delay at
Data's planet. On the table, the child's drawing of a
strange crystalline shape.
Present are Picard, Riker, and Geordi. As before,
they will continue treating Data as a living person
but at times they may try a bit too hard to make that
feeling clear. For some, their first meeting with Data
was many years ago and they have long thought of him
simply as a fellow crewmember. Now, with the discovery
of the disassembled android form, they've been suddenly
reminded that their friend is also a machine. It
brings their emotions into play because they're
concerned for Data. How does he feel about this
remarkable happening? What should they say to him --
what words should they now use or not use? Meanwhile,
Picard is speaking to Riker:
PICARD
Bringing it up here was the right
thing to do, of course, Number
One.
Picard trails his words as Data ENTERS and seats
himself. Despite themselves, everyone stiffens a bit.
PICARD
(continuing)
I was just saying, Data, that if
it functions, it might answer a
lot of questions for us.
Data feels the tension too. He's sharing their
discomfort, merely nodding at the captain's comment.
An uncomfortable beat, then:
RIKER
Does it appear to have all
your... ah, parts?
DATA
Completely, sir.
GEORDI
(beat)
Will we know how to... to "turn
it on?"
PICARD
All right, all right...
(stands; hesitates,
then)
Legitimate questions about this
need not be asked apologetically.
(to Data)
You're uncomfortable about aspects
of your duplicate, Data... we're
uncomfortable, too... and none of
it for any logical reason. We
know that you're as "alive" as
any of the rest of us.
(to the others)
If you find it awkward to be
reminded that Data is a
"machine"... you might remember
that the rest of you are merely
a different variety of
machine... in our case,
electro-chemical in nature.
(MORE)
PICARD (Cont'd)
(sits)
Let's begin handling this as we
would anything else.
A grin has come over Riker's face during this and he
TAPS his knuckles on the table approvingly. Geordi
looks up, SLAPS the table.
GEORDI
Agreed! Love that captain!
PICARD
(snaps)
My comments, Lieutenant, do not
require applause!
GEORDI
Yes, sir; sorry, sir.
But as the captain now turns toward the others, Riker
flashes Data a big wink. Data looks puzzled.
PICARD
Let's start with you, Data.
DATA
Well... a good starting point might
be, "Why was I given human form?"
GEORDI
To make it easy for humans to
relate to you. Had to be. But
your designer may have had
something else to prove also.
PICARD
(nods)
That human-shaped robots need not
be clumsy, limited things...
(turning)
You certainly operate as well as
we do, Data...
DATA
In some ways better, sir.
PICARD
Ah... yes! But the important
question now may be what happened
to the colonists.
RIKER
Agreed.
(exhibits child's
drawing)
One of several exhibited in the
lab, by proud parents, no doubt.
This could be simply a child's
imagination. But then, several
children made similar drawings.
A COM SIGNAL, followed by:
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Doctor Crusher to Captain. At
this point, sir, we very much need
Mister Data's help.
Data is already coming to his feet as Picard gives him
a nod. As Data EXITS:
PICARD
He's on his way, Doctor.
23 INT. SICKBAY - DATA AND BEVERLY
standing well away from the medical and engineering
technicians, talking quietly. Data presses a finger
at the spot which on humans would be between the second
and third joint of his spinal column. He also checks
that none of the others are watching too closely.
DATA
There, Doctor. Press your fingers
there.
Beverly moves in and complies. Then a look of slight
surprise on her face.
24 INSERT - BEVERLY'S HAND
At the described spot on Data's back -- the fingers
pressing almost their full length through Data's
uniform fabric and into his back.
DATA (O. S.)
It operates somewhat like a
"switch," Doctor.
25 BACK TO SHOT
Beverly pressing further.
BEVERLY
And these small projections?
DATA
An android alarm clock, Doctor.
Is that amusing?
(sees it isn't)
It times how long I remain
unconscious.
Beverly sees someone APPROACHING, quickly drops her
hand away. It is Chief Engineer Argyle who carries
what we'll later see are "high temp heat molders" used
to join together Data's "skin."
ARGYLE
Are you certain about us using
these heating devices, Data?
DATA
(nods)
I will feel nothing at all.
ARGYLE
(smiles)
Marvelous. It should all be a
lot simpler... once we can see how
your circuitry's connected.
Argyle MOVES OFF to discuss the molding devices with
the Technicians. Beverly turns to Data who is watching
her closely, expectantly. She nods:
BEVERLY
I'll mention it to no one. You
have my word.
DATA
If you had an off-switch
Doctor... would you not keep it
secret?
BEVERLY
I probably would.
26 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling against a background of stars at warp speed.
27 INT. SICKBAY - WIDE ANGLE
Two Data-like forms on two operating tables next to
each other. Neither of the Data look-alikes is moving,
and the torso of each is all but hidden by the medical
scanners over the tables. At one of the tables, the
mixed engineering and medical team is gathered. Argyle
and Beverly are reaching in, intent on what they are
seeing and doing.
28 CLOSER ANGLE AT THE BUSY TABLE
We're unable to tell whether this is Data or the
look-alike. Whichever, it is unmoving as Beverly and
Argyle lean in to peer closely at what is under the
sensor hood.
ARGYLE
Yes, notice the micro-circuitry
here... and here.
29 CLOSE UNDER SENSOR HOOD (OPTICAL)
Revealing some of a Data-like torso in which a flap has
been cut open TO REVEAL a bit of complex android body
interior in which WE SEE low-level PURPLE AND GREEN
FLICKERING. Argyle's hand is pointing a finger at
something.
ARGYLE (O.S.)
Then another fibroid-like
connection here.
30 ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND ARGYLE
As he withdraws his hand, looks to her for
confirmation. Beverly nods, reaches for one of the
heat molding instruments.
BEVERLY
Let's close up.
She reaches the heat molding instrument in under the
sensor hood.
31 CLOSE UNDER SENSOR HOOD (SPECIAL EFFECTS)
as Beverly's hand presses the "skin" flap shut, applies
the heat molder against it. A HISSING SOUND,
SMOKE... and when the heat molder is removed, the "skin"
flap has been sealed closed without a mark left.
32 INT. CORRIDOR
Picard and Riker striding toward Sickbay.
33 INT. SICKBAY - CLOSE ON DATA
A slightly groggy Data at one of the operating tables,
finishes slipping into his uniform. Beverly moves
INTO SHOT, looks at the other android form, speaking
quietly.
BEVERLY
If I've done it right, he'll
switch on in a minute.
34 WIDER ANGLE
as Picard and Riker ENTER Sickbay. Chief Engineer
Argyle is closest and gets a questioning look from
Picard.
ARGYLE
It seemed to go well...
(indicates)
... thanks to a look inside Mister
Data. But there have been no
signs of consciousness, yet...
Picard and Riker CROSS TOWARD the operating table which
holds the unmoving android Form. Data and Beverly
CROSS IN too.
35 ANGLE INCLUDING ANDROID, PICARD AND RIKER
The Data-like Android. Picard and Riker STEP IN, look
down at it.
RIKER
Certainly a perfect match for
Data, sir.
PICARD
(uncertain)
Do you think so, really?
(leans in; inspects)
I wonder which of them was made
first?
The LORE android opens its eyes.
LORE
He was. But they found him
imperfect and I was made to
replace him.
36 ANOTHER ANGLE
Data SURGING IN, surprised. Lore looks up at him, then
back to Picard. Its face twitches once -- a nervous
tic we'll see again.
LORE
You may call me Lore.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
37 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling at warp eight against a star background.
38 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard and Data considering the Lore happening.
PICARD
I'm also a bit troubled by it
describing you as "imperfect."
DATA
Human language gives me
difficulties too, sir.
"Imperfect" could mean I lack
abilities that he possesses.
PICARD
I wonder. But the point of this
is whether you and it have
approximately the same
capabilities.
DATA
We do, sir, and your referring
to him as an "it"... suggests I
too fit into the category of a
"thing."
It is a fair shot at Picard and he recognizes it,
nodding sincerely.
PICARD
I see your point, Commander. My
sincere apologies.
DATA
Gladly accepted, sir. As for
Lore's abilities, his use of
syntax and grammar suggests he
was given human memories similar
to mine.
PICARD
You both have about equal
physical strength and mental
ability?
DATA
I believe so, sir.
PICARD
(troubled)
Which requires I now ask you... a
very serious question. Since the
two of you are closely related
to each other...
DATA
The answer, sir, is that my
loyalty is to you and Starfleet.
Completely.
PICARD
(beat; small smile)
Thank you, Commander. I was
certain of that.
39 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Lore is now wearing a plain-colored utility uniform
without rank or insignia. It includes pocket-pouches
and a turtle-necked kind of undergarment beneath.
His only other difference from Data is in the fact he
often smiles (perhaps with a suggestion of
insincerity), plus his occasional facial "tic" or
twitch. He is now seated in Wesley's position at the
Helm next to Geordi who is pointing out various
controls. Wesley, standing behind that position, and
Riker at Command, seem a bit uncertain of this
android. The other regulars watch approvingly.
GEORDI
And Helm control are here, with
the ship's heading given in
measurements, we call them
"degrees"...
(indicating)
... with three hundred-sixty of
them in a full circle this way.
LORE
... Then you say "mark"...
40 EMPHASIZING DATA (OPTICAL)
who has left the Ready Room and CROSSES IN, stopping to
watch and listen.
GEORDI
On the nose!
WESLEY
Which separates it from another
three hundred-sixty degree full
circle like this... on a right
angle to that one.
LORE
(demonstrating)
So by ordering a heading so many
degrees this way, and so many this
way, the ship can travel in any
direction. All three dimensions.
RIKER
And the square of the hypotenuse
of a right triangle...
LORE
Is equal to the sum of the square
of its other two...
(stops; covering)
... its two "somethings"... which
I once heard but never understood.
Riker and Wesley exchange a look at this juncture.
Data has stopped to watch this exchange with interest
also. Now, he moves toward Lore with a friendly tone.
DATA
All of which you can learn more
about, when the captain has
approved your being on the bridge.
LORE
(surprise and
contrition)
Have I committed an offense?
WESLEY
(pleasantly)
You'll find as I have that
starships are loaded with rules
which have to be learned.
But Wesley's expression also indicates he has begun to
have some doubts about Lore -- especially now when he
hears:
LORE
You're very clever, Wesley.
(to Data)
I now have duties to perform.
Correct?
Except for Riker and Wesley, the rest of the bridge
crew is enjoying Lore.
WORF
Were you ever this anxious to
please, Data?
DATA
Never. I judge Lore to be
superior in that desire as well.
LORE
Because I was designed to be so
human, my brother, I enjoy pleasing
humans.
GEORDI
"My brother." That has a nice
sound, Data.
DATA
(to Lore)
And you consider it important to
please humans?
LORE
It's not important?
DATA
(beat)
There are many things of
importance... some more so than
others.
Data indicates the turbolift, guides Lore in that
direction. Lore seems eager to cooperate as they EXIT
into the turbolift.
41 INT. TURBOLIFT
Data speaks toward the panel.
DATA
My quarters.
At which, the turbolift HUMS into life and powers
downward.
LORE
Is my brother that important?
It knows you?
DATA
It can identify any of the crew.
(eyes Lore)
Just as I can identify flattery,
brother.
LORE
I used it only to please you, my
brother. Is that forbidden too?
DATA
It is best used when it reflects
genuine feelings.
LORE
Then, I used it properly with you.
41A INT. CORRIDOR
as Data and Lore ENTER from the turbolift, move down
the corridor.
DATA
(beat)
Do you realize Commander Riker's
hypotenuse question tricked you
into showing your knowledge was
much greater than you were
indicating?
LORE
He didn't seem that clever. I'll
be more careful.
DATA
You tend to underestimate humans,
my brother. The way you praised
young Wesley at the Helm, for
example...
LORE
A child!
DATA
He has a child's body, but we have
found him to be much more than that.
LORE
Thank you for that information,
too.
(beat; eyeing Data)
You do care about how I perform.
I pledge to be worthy of your
teaching, my brother.
Data looks at Lore for a long moment as they walk.
42 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
A plain, almost unfurnished interior. The door from
the corridor slides OPEN and Data ENTERS with Lore who
takes a moment to examine the quarters. They include
mainly a large computer, but little more.
LORE
How would they describe this?
"Spartan?"
DATA
I have no need for places to sit
or sleep. Do you?
LORE
Do I appear that weak?
During which, Data has gone to his computer controls,
punched in an information request. The word DICTIONARY
COMES ONTO the viewer. Data touches the computer
controls again and CAMERA ZOOMS IN to show JEALOUSY
defined as "INTOLERANCE OF RIVALRY, OR HOSTILITY TOWARD
A RIVAL OR ONE BELIEVED TO HOLD AN ADVANTAGE." CAMERA
ZOOMS BACK to an expressionless Data.
LORE
What information are you
requesting?
DATA
Everything available on a Doctor
Noonien Soong.
Information on Soong is COMING UP on the computer.
Lore moves in as Data studies it as he continues
talking with Lore who nods at the last statement.
LORE
Good old "Often-Wrong Soong."
(sees Data's puzzlement)
A joke, brother. Actually, he
was a genius by human standards.
DATA
(reading computer
viewer)
But had destroyed his own
reputation by making what seemed
wild promises about his positronic
brain design... almost all of which
failed.
LORE
Promises he later proved to be
true...
(taps his head)
Which made you and I possible.
Our beloved "father."
(touches Data's uniform)
Will I soon have a uniform like
that, my brother?
The casual mention of "father" and the fast switch to
uniforms bothers Data. His reply contains some
annoyance.
DATA
If you get one the way I did,
Lore, it means four years at the
Academy, another three as ensign,
ten or twelve on varied space duty
in the lieutenant grades...
LORE
(interrupting)
... A system designed to compensate
for limited human abilities.
But you, my brother, have begun
thinking as humans do. You and
I are completely different from
them. Are you truly satisfied
with the memories and knowledge
of just a few hundred human
colonists? Suppose it could
reflect thousands... or a
million... or the knowledge of
hundreds of millions of life forms
of every kind?
They look at each other for a long beat. Lore's facial
"tic" happens again. Then:
DATA
How?
Oddly enough, Lore's face twitches again at that, too.
LORE
We will discuss it in time.
DATA
And will we also discuss which
of us was constructed first?
LORE
(surprised)
It would be foolish to
underestimate you, my brother.
(nods)
Yes, I lied when I said you were
made first. With good reason.
Doctor Soong made me perfect on
his first attempt. But he made
me so completely human that the
colonists became envious of me.
DATA
You lived with the colonists?
LORE
(nods)
Until they petitioned Soong to
design a more comfortable, less
perfect android. In other words,
you, my brother.
Data and Lore sit looking at each other, until:
LORE
(continuing)
For example, haven't you noticed
how easily I handle human speech?
I use their contractions... such
as isn't or can't. You say...
(mimicking formality)
... is not or cannot.
(MORE)
LORE (Cont'd)
(half singing it)
I say tomato, you say tomahto;
I say potato, you say potahto...
(amused)
A very old joke, but you also
have trouble with their humor,
too. Am I right?
DATA
(considers it; nods)
Quite true. I keep trying to be
more human... and keep failing.
LORE
Do you realize, my brother, that
I can help you become more human?
DATA
And... do you realize... Lore,
that I am obligated to report all
of this to our ship's captain?
LORE
I assumed as much when I began
studying you.
(moves to computer)
May I use this to learn more of
this vessel and its customs?
DATA
(nods)
Use it also to describe for the
captain the time you spent with
the colonists. Including all
you know about what happened to
them.
LORE
I promise a report with great
detail and accuracy.
DATA
Thank you, Lore. And now, I
have duties to perform, unless
you need something more.
LORE
I have more than I dreamed
possible, my brother.
Data EXITS.
43 ANGLE ON LORE AT COMPUTER
beginning to punch in information requests more
rapidly... then still more rapidly.
44 ANGLE ON VIEWER (OPTICAL)
providing starship information so rapidly now that the
viewer IMAGES ARE A BLUR.
45 CLOSE ON LORE
He seems to absorb this flood of information easily.
He is very pleased with himself.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
46 EXT SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still traveling at high warp speed.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41242.5.
We now have the full story of the
micro-engineering achievement
which produced Data... and Lore...
47 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - SCIENCE STATION (OPTICAL)
Intent upon the Science Station Viewer are Picard,
Riker and Beverly. Geordi, Betty, Wesley, Tasha and Worf are
on duty at their bridge stations.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... and of the tragedy which
deprived humanity of the
remarkable minds behind that.
Our first clue was a child's
drawing which showed a great,
complex crystal shape...
48 CLOSE INSERT ON VIEWER (OPTICAL)
as needed. The IMAGE there IS LORE'S REPORT which
includes a look at the child's drawing..
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... confirmed by Lore's report to
be an unknown kind of creature,
capable of stripping all life from
an entire world... insatiably
ravenous for the life force found
in intelligent forms like
us... which Lore explains it stored
in new crystal patterns... for
purposes which are unknown.
49 BACK TO SHOT OF MAIN BRIDGE
TASHA
But how did Data escape that
thing? Or Lore?
RIKER
Lore had been disassembled. He
explains it as jealousy from the
colonists. And Data wasn't yet
"alive" at that time.
PICARD
Which explains why Data could be
left outside in no danger from
the creature. Whatever happened
to the colonists, he would be
found by any Starfleet team that
responded to the signal being
transmitted.
TASHA
By which Doctor Soong left proof
behind that his experiment did
work.
RIKER
Captain, how believable do you
find that crystal thing?
PICARD
Having explored so little of just
our galaxy, I find anything
possible.
TASHA
(overlapping; puzzled
by readings)
Data, are you expecting Lore to
come up here? He left your
quarters some time ago.
DATA
To go... ?
TASHA
My Turbo-sensors say he went to
Deck One...
(turning to Worf)
Worf?
WORF
... where he examined some
microminiature work tools, then
some...
(squints at her Viewer)
... fine grind quadratanium... ?
DATA
Which is used in our construction.
(to Picard)
That particular compound is no
more suspicious, sir, than a human
looking for an antiseptic or an
ointment. Nevertheless, I should
check it out.
BEVERLY
You're watching everything he
does, Data? Is that the act of
a brother?
PICARD
The act of a Starfleet officer
obeying his captain, Doctor.
Tasha watches Data stand and EXIT the bridge. Then
she turns toward Picard.
TASHA
Speaking strictly as security
chief, Captain... how much can you
trust Data now?
The idea shocks some of the bridge crew.
PICARD
I trust him completely,
Lieutenant!
(then softer)
But everyone should also realize
you just asked a necessary and
legitimate security question.
TASHA
Thank you for explaining that,
sir.
50 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
where Lore has set out a champagne bottle from which
he fills stemmed glasses. Then, he pours silver metal
bits into one of the glasses, causing the champagne
momentarily to FIZZ WITH A SHRILL SOUND. It has hardly
settled down when the sliding door OPENS and Data
ENTERS. Lore manages to slip the vial into a pouch
in his utility uniform as he turns, smiling.
LORE
Lesson one in becoming more human,
my brother. You must observe all
human customs.
Data is surprised to see the champagne that Lore is
pointing out.
DATA
Champagne?
LORE
An ancient ritual, still practiced
when they celebrate events of
importance.
(picking up undoctored
glass)
My brother... I toast our
discovery of each other. May it
fill our lives with new meaning.
Data is surprised at this ritual being suggested. But
Lore is holding his glass in toast position and Data
sees no reason not to indulge Lore in this. He picks
up his own glass. Lore drinks the full glass; Data
takes a couple of sips, sets the glass down and looks
up.
DATA
I have some doubts about the value
of human... customs in this...my...
brother...
Data reels, begins slumping toward the floor as Lore
watches, pleased.
LORE
And let us toast also...
DATA
(thickly)
Brother... help me...
50 CONTINUED:
LORE
... also Doctor Soong who gave me
the full richness of human needs
and ambitions... a perfect match
for my mind, my body...
Data is slumping prone now, becoming unable to fight
the effects of the compound given him. Lore squats
to keep his face near to him.
LORE
(continuing)
And let us toast also the great
Crystal Entity... with which I
learned to communicate. Before
Doctor Soong disassembled me, I
earned its gratitude by revealing
the way to the colonists.
Data is close to being completely unconscious now.
LORE
(continuing)
Can you image its gratitude when
I give it the life on this
vessel... and when my cleverness
lets it safely feed upon crowded
worlds in the galaxy... ?
Satisfied with what he sees now, Lore begins stripping
down to the turtleneck undershirt beneath his utility
uniform.
51 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Only Riker, Geordi, Betty, Wesley and Worf on duty now. Worf
gets a reading which causes him to look toward Riker.
WORF
This is strange, sir. I show
Mister Data transmitting on a
subspace channel.
RIKER
He's been doing considerable
research on Doctor Soong's
background... but let's be sure.
(turns)
Wesley, can you look in on him
discreetly?
WESLEY
(coming to his feet
instantly)
Yes sir!
bridge crew watches Wesley EXIT, enjoying his youthful
eagerness.
52 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
where Data's android form now wears the utility
uniform, lying unconscious on the floor neatly parallel
to a cabin wall. Wearing Data's uniform and rank
insignia is Lore, now speaking into the computer.
LORE
... and upon arriving here you can
identify me as the machine named
"Data."
Any doubts as to the true identity of this Android are
resolved at the sight of Lore's facial "tic" or twitch.
WE HEAR the door CHIME.
LORE
(continuing)
End of message.
(turning computer off)
Come in, please.
Wesley ENTERS, stops in surprise at the sight of an
android in utility uniform lying unconscious on the
floor.
LORE
(continuing)
Glad you are here, Wesley. Lore
suddenly attacked me and I had
to turn him off.
WESLEY
Why did he do that, Data?
LORE
He discovered we have been
using sensors to follow what
he does.
Lore's facial twitch happens. Wesley REGISTERS
SURPRISE at this happening.
LORE
(continuing)
I practiced his facial "tic."
Do I have it right?
WESLEY
I'd suggest you forget imitating
him...
(smiles)
... because if you had said "We've
been using the sensors," instead
if "we have," I might have
suspected you were Lore.
LORE
Yes. I do use language more
formally than Lore. Please
inform the captain I will come
up to the bridge...
(indicating unconscious
Form)
... and report on this.
WESLEY
Aye, sir.
CAMERA HOLDS ON LORE as Wesley EXITS. Then the facial
"tic" happens again and Lore turns to a cabinet and
extracts several hand devices, selects a heavy one.
53 CLOSE ON LORE
as he lifts the device to his face, touches a control
making it WHINE into power. Then another control which
causes it to BATHE THE FACIAL "TIC" AREA WITH
ELECTRONIC DISCHARGES WHICH APPEAR AS MINIATURE
"LIGHTNING BOLTS." He keeps at this "treatment" until
that part of his face BEGINS TO GLOW. Then he lowers
the device and as the GLOW FADES, then works his facial
muscles, testing them.
54 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still traveling at high warp against a star background.
55 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Any angles on the Main Viewer SHOW the same high warp
speed. The full bridge crew we saw earlier is on duty,
Wesley back at the Helm position, Beverly seated in
the Command Area again. Data hasn't returned, of
course. Picard ENTERS from his Ready Room, reflecting
annoyance as he speaks to Wesley.
PICARD
You're certain he said he'll be
right up?
WESLEY
He indicated that, sir.
TASHA
Sensors show Data just now
entering a turbolift, sir.
BEVERLY
(to Wesley)
Wes, tell me again how Data said
he immobilized Lore.
WESLEY
He said he "turned him off," Mom...
(quick correction)
... uh, Doctor.
Lore, in Data's uniform, ENTERS by turbolift. Beverly
eyes him, puzzled.
BEVERLY
(quietly)
Question, Mister Data... did you
or did you not swear me to secrecy
about your "off switch?"
LORE
(a slight hesitation)
A change of mind, Doctor. If I
cannot trust the bridge crew, whom
can I... ?
GEORDI
(interrupting; to
Picard)
Sir! I'm picking up a "bogey"
coming in on a five o'clock
tangent.
WESLEY
Confirm! And so fast it makes
our warp eight look like we're
standing still!
TASHA
It's transmitting no ID signal,
Captain...
RIKER
Set Main Viewer on that tangent.
Main Viewer SWITCHES to the indicated REAR ANGLE,
changing the relative star movement accordingly. As
the view magnifies, WE CAN SEE A TINY BRIGHT SPOT WHICH
STEADILY GROWS LARGER.
PICARD
Shields up; go to Yellow Alert!
Transmit friendly greetings, all
languages, all frequencies.
RIKER
I can't believe anything
overtaking us this fast.
LORE
Beautiful, isn't it?
Wesley pivots, EXPRESSING SURPRISE at this. The rest
of the bridge crew is too busy at their readings and
controls to notice.
RIKER
I recognize it, Captain... it's
similar to that child's drawing...
WE CAN NOW SEE that the IMAGE (computer generated?)
IS SHAPED LIKE THE CRYSTAL COMPLEX.
BEVERLY
My God, it's big!
55A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND CRYSTAL ENTITY (OPTICAL)
MOVING IN to float close to our starship, the
SHIMMERING CRYSTAL COMPLEXITY is very obvious. It
looks both very lovely and terribly powerful at the
same time.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
56 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND CRYSTAL ENTITY (OPTICAL)
The huge crystal form, two or three times the size of
the starship, SLOWLY SPINNING, pictorially dominating
the starship as it floats next to it.
57 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The complex crystal IMAGE on Main Viewer, still
SHIMMERING as it SLOWLY TURNS. Watching it are Picard,
Riker, Wesley, Tasha, Worf and "Lore."
TASHA
Still no ID transmitted, sir.
Also, no answer to our inquiries.
Geordi ENTERS hurriedly.
PICARD
Did you have a direct look at it?
GEORDI
It's like a snowflake crystal,
sir. But much more complex... the
entire electromagnetic spectrum
seems to play about inside it...
(seeing Picard's look)
I haven't the slightest idea what
it is, sir.
PICARD
Data, anything else Lore can tell
us about it may be important.
Can you control Lore enough to
question him?
LORE
(rising; moving to
turbolift)
I'll have to examine him to know,
sir.
Wesley, who has reacted uncomfortably to all this,
comes to his feet.
WESLEY
Captain, recommend you do not
let...
(hesitates)
... him move around the ship alone.
PICARD
Ensign... !
LORE
(interrupting;
chuckling)
Wesley is only trying to show
himself alert and responsible,
sir.
(to Wesley)
Something to encourage. Come,
you can watch everything I do.
WESLEY
Not if I have a choice.
PICARD
That is quite enough, Ensign!
When addressing a senior
officer...
RIKER
(interrupting)
I've guided his training; I'm the
one at fault, sir.
(to Wesley)
You will show proper courtesy,
and I'm taking you down there to
make certain of it!
(to Picard)
With your approval, of course,
sir.
Picard gives a wave of approval to Riker and a look
of annoyance to Wesley.
58 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
as last seen, with Data unconscious on the floor. The
door opens with Lore very cleverly managing to block
Riker's and Wesley's view as he takes a precautionary
look inside.
LORE
Careful of Lore...
(steps aside)
Good, he is still unconscious.
Wesley ENTERS with Riker.
LORE
(continuing; to Wesley)
The captain refused to listen to
you but you were right... Lore
can be extremely dangerous.
Lore has knelt with an arm going behind Data,
pretending to lift his head more upright to examine his
face. Then, even though unconscious, Data's face
twitches.
LORE
(continuing)
Notice? The same twitch, even
when he's unconscious... I suspect
that...
59 REVERSE CLOSE ANGLE
On Data's back where Lore's hand, hidden from view,
probes fingers toward the "switch" deep in Data's back.
LORE (O.S.)
... something went seriously wrong
during Lore's construction.
60 BACK TO SHOT
LORE
Stay back. We could have a
problem if he senses someone else
is near.
(bringing android
closer)
Lore, I have some questions to
ask you...
Data's eyes flicker open, rolling about.
61 REVERSE ANGLE
Again on Data's back -- Lore's fingers jabbing
viciously at the "switch" area.
62 BACK TO SHOT
Data's head begins to jerk about, then begins doing
it more and more violently and he begins making PAINED
SOUNDS -- then struggles as if to sit up, Lore
pretending to hold him down.
LORE
Lore, it is Data. I have a few
easy questions for you...
(pretending to control
Data)
He senses you!
(Data begins flailing)
I'm sorry, I can't control him
if you stay.
Wesley is still uncertain, but Riker feels obliged to
obey Picard's orders. He moves Wesley toward the door.
Data is beginning to flail rather wildly.
LORE
Please! I'll record anything he
says!
RIKER
And bring it to the bridge.
Immediately!
The cabin door IS OPENED as Riker GUIDES Wesley OUT.
Then the doors CLOSE. Then, Lore releases Data who
falls back prone and unconscious again.
63 ANOTHER ANGLE
Lore still turned toward the door area, an ugly
expression now on Lore's face.
LORE
And you want to be as stupid as
them... ?
Lore suddenly KICKS HARD at Data's head, knocking it
violently aside.
LORE
(continuing)
... dear brother!
He kicks again. Then again.
64 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
where Riker and Wesley are moving back to their
positions.
PICARD
Well, Number One?
RIKER
Sir, it's Lore... with the same
facial twitch we've all seen...
lying unconscious exactly as Data
described. But he became violent,
apparently sensing that Wesley
and I were present...
WESLEY
(interrupting)
Or is it Lore pretending to be
Data, and faking it all?
PICARD
I asked for Commander Riker's
report, "Acting Ensign" Crusher.
And since it is now clear you are
unable to function here within
the limits of that appointment...
Wesley has come to his feet expecting the worst but all
is now interrupted:
GEORDI
Captain!
Picard whirls at the sound of alarm in Geordi's
voice... and sees that the huge crystal shape is rapidly
MOVING IN toward the Enterprise. Reaching the
deflector shields area, it is deflected back somewhat,
but the smaller Enterprise is JOLTED MORE, SHAKING THE
BRIDGE CREW ABOUT.
TASHA
Deflector shields holding, sir.
PICARD
(keeping voice calm)
Bring photon torpedoes to ready;
main phasers to ready...
A flurry of activity from Tasha and Worf. Wesley has
quickly seated himself again, checking his controls as
the immense crystal shape now COMES AT THE ENTERPRISE
HARDER. The SHAKING this time is HEAVIER, and WE BEGIN
TO HEAR the SOUND OF STRUCTURAL STRAIN. Beverly COMES
OUT of a turbolift, concerned.
PICARD
(continuing: to Riker)
Go to Red Alert, please.
Riker hits a control and the ALERT SIGNAL begins
HONKING, the RED LIGHTS begin FLASHING. And Lore,
still in Data's uniform, COMES OUT of a turbolift on
the run.
WORF
(raising voice over it)
Weapons now ready, sir!
LORE
No, Captain, let me talk to it...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Why didn't you say you could?
Interrupted by the CRYSTAL SHAPE COMING at the
Enterprise still HARDER, with STRUCTURAL STRAIN HEARD
MUCH LOUDER this time. The shaking makes Lore grab
support as:
PICARD
(continuing)
Affirmative! Talk to it!
LORE
(whirling to Tasha)
Open hailing frequencies!
(as she hits switch)
Crystal Form, I identify myself
as "Data," advising you to stop
your attack. The humans here are
powerful, capable of injuring or
even destroying you. They can
be changed only in other ways.
The crystal shape stops, begins to BACK OFF from the
Enterprise, taking its earlier position.
GEORDI
Now I call that communicating.
WORF
But he mentioned "changing us,"
Captain. What does that mean?
Wesley looks back toward Worf thankfully.
LORE
It has many meanings, as any human
language dictionary could inform
you.
(to Picard)
Suggest moving fast to confirm
what I told it, sir. Permission
to use the large transporter in
Cargo Room Three? There I can
beam out some living pattern,
perhaps a large tree...
RIKER
Which you'll beam over next to
the entity...
LORE
You are correct, Riker.
(to Picard)
Our ship's phasers will then blast
and disintegrate it... proving
we're dangerous.
PICARD
Make it so!
LORE
Sir?
Which brings a slight change of expression onto
Picard's features.
PICARD
Do it!
Lore EXITS via turbolift. Wesley has come to his feet,
protesting.
WESLEY
Sir, I know this may finish me
as an acting ensign, but...
PICARD
Shut up, Wesley.
(turning)
Lieutenant Yar, pick a good
security team, let me know what
he does.
Yar turns to Worf, silently requesting him to handle
it. Worf gives a brisk "Aye, sir," EXITING via
turbolift.
Beverly has been watching Picard, troubled.
BEVERLY
"Shut up, Wesley?"
PICARD
Stay out of this, Madam...
WESLEY
Since I am finished here, Captain,
may I point out... ?
BEVERLY
Shut up, Wesley!
WESLEY
(still to Picard)
... that what I've said would have
been listened to if it came from
an adult officer. Request
permission to return to my
quarters, sir.
PICARD
Granted, if you take your mother
with you.
BEVERLY
(flaring)
You're putting me off the bridge?
PICARD
I'm asking that you keep an eye
on your son during this, Doctor.
WESLEY
Please, Mom. Let's go.
A hesitant Beverly lets Wesley accompany her to a
turbolift.
65 INT. CORRIDOR
where Worf and two Security People hurry toward a
turbolift door there. It OPENS... REVEALING Lore
waiting there. Worf REACTS, quickly steps toward Lore.
LORE
Emergency close!
Causing the turbolift doors to CLOSE in the face of
the Security People.
66 INT. TURBOLIFT
Worf, alone with Lore in the small cab, whirls toward
the android.
LORE
(continuing)
Now show me your warrior
fierceness.
Worf draws his small phaser fast... and Lore chops it
from his hand even faster. Worf pivots, his fist
striking powerfully at Lore who moves very fast,
deflects it and chops again at Worf, bringing a look of
surprised pain to Worf's face. Like a windmill, Lore
chops at Worf with one hand, then the next, then again
with the other -- and WE SEE Worf's knees beginning
to buckle.
68 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
with Data crumpled in a heap on the floor. No blood or
bruises appear on an android, but the epidermal
covering of his head is damaged, with pieces of it
hanging down.
WE HEAR a CHIME. Then a wait, then a MECHANICAL SOUND
AT THE DOOR which slides open TO REVEAL Wesley there
with Beverly who now has a major phaser on her belt.
BEVERLY
I'll look, but I should never
have let you talk me into this...
But Wesley presses ON INTO the room... then REACTS at
what he finds.
WESLEY
It's Data, Mom. He's been hurt!
Beverly COMES IN too, kneels at the utility-clad Form
there. Then the facial twitch happens. Beverly looks
up at Wesley, alarmed.
WESLEY
It's Data! For once will you
trust me about something?
Beverly looks questioningly at the unconscious android
form.
WESLEY
(continuing)
You must know how much Starfleet
means to me. But I'm finished
unless you can help me.
(touches her arm)
I heard you know how to turn them
on. Please?
Beverly pulls away, starts to rise.
BEVERLY
No, this is very serious...
WESLEY
I know, Mom. So tell me again
to "shut up, Wesley," and I will.
BEVERLY
You're being very unfair,
Wesley...
But Beverly still reaches to Data's back... then Data
opens his eyes and sits upright, examining Beverly and
Wesley.
WESLEY
Data, the Crystal Thing is outside
close to the ship... and Lore is
loose somewhere inside.
Data comes to his feet. A loose piece of epidermal
covering FLUTTERS to the floor, causing him to run a
hand over his facial damage.
BEVERLY
How badly are you hurt... Data?
DATA
I will function sufficiently to
stop Lore, Doctor...
Wesley is already OUT the door. Beverly and Data hurry
to FOLLOW.
69 INT. CORRIDOR TO CARGO THREE
Data, Beverly, Wesley hurry to a small door marked
"TRANSPORTER TECHNICIANS ONLY."
DATA
Whatever happens, it is important
that you two stay away from him.
Do not try to help me.
Both Wesley and Beverly nod agreement. Data tries the
door, it doesn't budge. Data gives an "I thought so"
nod, turns to a panel next to the door, punches in a
code... then easily pushes the door open.
70 INT. CARGO THREE TRANSPORTER ROOM
The small door has led to the Transporter Control Area.
Beyond past the large Transporter Platform are large
cargo doors used for bringing bulky cargo items in and
out. As Data, Beverly and Wesley ENTER, they stop,
freeze as they hear:
LORE (O.S.)
Good, you understand perfectly
so far. Next, I'll signal I'm
about to transport something
out...
Data is now moving in quietly, motioning Doctor and son
to stay back.
71 ANOTHER ANGLE
Lore standing at a computer where Data can see him now.
LORE
(continuing)
... at which time the deflector
shields will turn off for a
moment, and if you move in at
that time...
Lore suddenly stops in mid-sentence, turns and looks
directly at Data. Then, as if sensing someone else
there, Lore steps unexpectedly to one side... sees
Wesley and Beverly there.
DATA
How sad, dear brother. You have
made me wish I were an only child.
LORE
(raising phaser)
Then why this marvelous gift, my
brother? The troublesome little
man-child.
(circling; to Wesley)
Are you prepared for the kind of
death you've earned, little man?
This is too much for Beverly. She draws her major
phaser, aiming it at Lore.
BEVERLY
If you take one step toward my
son...
Startled, Data takes his eyes off Lore for just a
fraction of a second... enough for Lore to send Data
spinning to where he blocks Beverly's aim. Wesley
tries to move in to help but Lore has already chopped
again at Data, spinning into Beverly, easily taking
the phaser away from her. He makes a quick setting
on it. Data is coming to his feet to attack Lore.
LORE
Ah, motherhood!
(aims phaser at Wesley)
Back off or I'll turn your little
man into a torch!
Frightened for Wesley, Beverly backs off. Lore makes
another quick setting, holding phaser on Wesley.
LORE
I promise him exquisite pain
unless you obey me too, dear
brother.
BEVERLY
Move away, Data, please!
Data backs off a few steps.
LORE
Do you see now the advantages of
being completely human?
(to Beverly)
It includes kindness. I give you
your life, Doctor. Go, quickly
and I may not injure your son at
all.
Beverly is willing to die if it helps her son. But
leaving him this way?
DATA
I will stay with Wesley, Doctor.
LORE
Go! Or he'll be shrieking on the
count of five. One... two...
72 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL & SPECIAL EFFECTS)
Beverly panics, hurries toward the small door where
they had entered.
BEVERLY
I'll bring help, Wesley.
LORE
Thank you for my human quality,
Doctor Soong.
(aiming phaser)
Now a small payment for your son's
misdeeds.
LORE PHASERS BEVERLY, a BEAM which strikes her left
arm in a FLASH OF FIRE.
WESLEY
Mom!
Wesley turns, rushing at Lore... but Data reaches out,
stopping Wesley and holding him immobile. Meanwhile,
the PHASER BEAM has IGNITED Beverly's MEDICAL COAT
which she must now tear away one-handed, opening the
door the same way. As the EXITS, the door CLOSES but
with Lore distracted with the door, Data leaps at him
fast, shoving Wesley tumbling to safety. It is a
vicious android battle, both using incredible speed
and power. It SURGES OUT into the open room, toward
the big transporter platform.
75 ANGLE ON WESLEY
coming to his feet, alert to anything he can do to help
Data. He moves toward the conflict.
DATA
Stay back, Wesley! Help me some
other way!
Wesley backs off. Data and Lore in action that now
SURGES toward the transporter platform. Wesley,
desperately seeking some way to help, sees their
direction of movement... turns quickly toward the
transporter controls. Can this be it?
76 EMPHASIZING DATA AND LORE
at the edge of the transporter platform. Data now sees
where Wesley is standing -- he pretends to stumble,
faking Lore in over him -- then surges up to his full
height, tossing Lore onto the platform.
DATA
Wesley... now!
77 ANGLE ON WESLEY
already moving the controls.
78 ANGLE EMPHASIZING LORE (OPTICAL)
as he is beamed out into oblivion.
79 ANGLE ON SMALL DOOR
as it is FORCED OPEN, Picard, Riker, Tasha, with an
injured Beverly RUSH IN. Wesley rushes to his mother,
worried about her injuries.
WESLEY
(to Picard)
Lore's gone, sir, permanently!
PICARD
(to Beverly)
Now that your son's safe, Doctor,
report immediately to Sickbay.
Riker has noticed something happening on the computer
view screen.
RIKER
Captain... The crystal thing has
begun to move away.
79A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND CRYSTAL SHAPE (OPTICAL)
as the crystal thing MOVES AWAY from the starship,
accellerating, DISAPPEARING quickly into the distance.
79B INT. CARGO THREE TRANSPORTER ROOM
as a figure, clothed like Lore, MOVES IN toward the
Captain. As Picard looks him over, its face twitches.
PICARD
(continuing; beat;
eyeing him)
Data, get rid of that damned
twitch! And put on a correct
uniform.
79B CONTINUED:
DATA
Yes, Captain.
Data EXITS.
PICARD
And Ensign Crusher...
(as Wesley HURRIES IN)
... are you able to return to duty
now?
WESLEY
Yes, sir!
PICARD
Then do so! Let the bridge know
all is well down here.
Wesley HURRIES OFF too. Riker turns from another look
at at the view screen.
RIKER
It's gone, sir. Without Lore, it
had no way to reach us.
PICARD
(nods)
And we're overdue for our computer
refit.
(beat)
Number One, have you ever
considered whether Data is more
human, or less human than we want?
RIKER
(grins)
I only wish we were as well
balanced, sir.
PICARD
(beat; nods)
Agreed!
The two of them begin to EXIT.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
