STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Lonely Among Us"
#40271-108
Story by
Michael Halperin
Teleplay by
D. C. Fontana
Directed by
Cliff Bole
Copyright 1987 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved.
This script is not for publication or reproduction. No one
is authorized to dispose of same. If lost or destroyed,
please notify the Script Department.
2ND REV. FINAL DRAFT
AUGUST 21, 1987
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Lonely Among Us"
CAST
PICARD SINGH (ASST. CHIEF ENGINEER)
RIKER SSESTAR (SELAY LEADER)
DATA BADAR N'D'D (ANTICAN)
TROI FIRST SECURITY GUARD
BEVERLY TRANSPORTER CHIEF
TASHA TASHA
GEORDI Non-Speaking Roles:
WORF 4 SELAY
WESLEY 1 ANTICAN
ENTERPRISE CREW MEMBERS
SECOND SECURITY GUARD
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Lonely Among Us"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
Transporter Room 4
Main bridge ENERGY "CLOUD"
Sensor Maintenance Room
Ready Room
Sickbay
Crusher's Office
Badar N'D'D's Quarters
Crushers' Quarters
Observation Lounge
Engineer's Office/Engineering
Captain's Ready Room
Guest Quarters
Riker's Quarters
Corridors
Turbolift
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - TEASER
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Lonely Among Us"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - USS ENTERPRISE IN ORBIT (OPTICAL)
The great ship orbits a blue-green planet softly cloaked
in a swirl of cloud cover.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41249.3.
We have orbited the two major
planets of the Beta Renner system
taking aboard delegates from
those two worlds. Since achieving
space flight, their major life
forms, the Anticans and the
Selay...
2 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM 4 - ANGLE ON PICARD
in full dress uniform, waiting impatiently near the
platform. O.S. TRANSPORTER SOUND IS BUILDING.
3 ANGLE ON TRANSPORTER
as FIVE FIGURES begin to form in the sparkling
TRANSPORTER EFFECT. As they solidify, they are revealed
as FIVE ALIENS (Selay). The Chief Delegate is SSESTAR.
All Selay are tall and two axhandles across the
shoulders. Their reptilian heads are sinister -- sleek
scaled skin, lipless mouths, and beady eyes. The
markings on their heads are cobra-like, and folds of
skin at the neck imply a cobra hood.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... have become deadly enemies.
But both have also applied for
admission into our Federation.
We are to deliver these
delegates to this sector's neutral
Conference Planet called
"Parliament" in the hope their
dispute can be resolved.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - TEASER 2.
3 CONTINUED
Picard gestures the Selay off the platform with a
somewhat strained smile.
PICARD
I am Captain Picard. We hope
to make this journey pleasant
and comfortable. Arranging
that will be my first officer,
Commander Riker.
4 REVERSE ANGLE - ON RIKER AND TASHA
also in dress uniform, waiting near the Transporter
control console. TASHA concentrates on the Selay
delegates as RIKER steps forward formally.
RIKER
Welcome aboard. If you'll follow
me...
(starts MOVING OFF)
... I'll show you the
accommodations we've...
5 WIDER ANGLE
The Selay leader, Ssestar, interrupts:
SSESTAR
We can already smell the Anticans.
They were taken aboard first?
PICARD
Only because their world was the
first on our heading to
Parliament.
SSESTAR
Will our quarters be near the
Anticans?
PICARD
About one hundred meters apart.
Is that all right?
SSESTAR
No. Unsatisfactory.
Picard starts to frown, but Riker nods to the captain
-- he'll handle it.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - TEASER 3.
5 CONTINUED
RIKER
I believe we can accommodate their
wishes, Captain.
(to Ssestar)
We'll rearrange suite assignments.
If you'll follow me?
Ssestar hesitates, then grunts an assent and motions
his people to follow as he moves toward the door.
SSESTAR
And we must be upwind from the
Anticans.
RIKER
Of course, sir...
The delegation EXITS with Riker. As they leave and the
DOORS CLOSE:
TASHA
Neither seem very promising
Federation candidates.
Picard nods, begins EXITING with Tasha.
PICARD
Even Parliament's peacemakers may
find this case difficult.
6 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship moves majestically out of orbit, goes into the
WARP SPEED EFFECT.
7 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
All the regular crew at their stations, except for
Geordi and Worf, who are absent. A replacement CONN
OFFICER is at that panel, next to DATA at Ops.
PICARD
(to Riker)
Do you understand the basis of
all that nonsense between them?
RIKER
No sir. I didn't understand that
kind of hostility even when I
studied Earth history.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - TEASER 4.
7 CONTINUED
PICARD
Oh? Well, yes, but these life
forms feel such passionate hatred
over differences in customs, God
concepts, and even strangely enough,
economic systems...
8 ANOTHER ANGLE
Data has frowned at something on his panel, looks around
at Picard.
DATA
Sir, my sensors are picking up
an unusual energy object ahead.
PICARD
On screen.
Data punches up the command.
9 ANGLE ON MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
A strange ENERGY PATTERN moving at warp speed.
TASHA
Confirmed, sir. My sensors read
nothing solid but considerable
energy in...
(puzzles over reading)
... in changing patterns.
DATA
Traveling at warp speed, too.
Intriguing.
(tabs panel, looks up)
I can find no match with anything
in our records, sir.
PICARD
(eyes viewer; then)
Change course for a close sensor
pass... we'll then increase warp
speed to reach Parliament on
schedule.
DATA
Aye, sir.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - TEASER 5.
10 INT. SENSOR MAINTENANCE ROOM - ON GEORDI AND WORF
The room is small, busy with equipment, including one
key console. GEORDI is leaning over the complicated
console and talking to WORF as he runs a pattern on the
panel.
GEORDI
Why the interest in this, Worf?
It is just routine maintenance
on the sensor assemblies.
WORF
Simple, Geordi. Our captain
wants his junior officers to
learn, learn, learn...
GEORDI
(grins)
Not just the junior ones.
(indicates)
Okay, hold this relay off-line
while...
Worf moves in and takes over as indicated, while:
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Security to Sensor Maintenance.
GEORDI
La Forge here.
11 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
TASHA
We're making a close sensor pass
on an unusual object, Geordi.
Any problems?
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
None, Lieutenant. All equipment
on line and functioning.
TASHA
(turns to Captain)
Sensors ready, sir.
PICARD
(to Data)
Life form reading?
DATA
No life form reading, sir.
PICARD
Begin the pass.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - TEASER 6.
12 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND ENERGY "CLOUD" (OPTICAL)
as the Enterprise changes course slightly to intercept
the "cloud."
13 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE INCLUDING VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
as they close rapidly with the object.
DATA
Sir, it is changing shape... !
14 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND "CLOUD" (OPTICAL)
The "cloud" bulging out slightly, putting the bulge in
the Enterprise's path.
15 ANGLE ON COMMAND AREA
PICARD
Any readings indicating matter
there?
DATA
Negative, Captain. Energy only.
16 EXT. SPACE - CLOSE ON ENTERPRISE AND "CLOUD" (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise begins passing just through the wispy
edge of it.
17 INT. SENSOR MAINTENANCE ROOM - ON WORF AND GEORDI
(OPTICAL)
Worf is where he moved in at the console relay. Geordi
is standing to one side. Suddenly there is a BRIEF GLOW
(OPTICAL) from the key console to Worf. The big Klingon
jerks as though something has struck him, and he
convulses spasmodically and collapses. Geordi tabs his
communicator instantly.
GEORDI
La Forge to Sickbay. Medical
emergency in Sensor Maintenance
Room!
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - TEASER 7.
17 CONTINUED
MOVE IN CLOSE ON GEORDI as he bends over the crumpled
Klingon.
GEORDI
(continuing)
Repeat -- medical emergency!
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 8.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
18 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
plunging through space at warp speed, leaving the
"cloud" behind.
19 INT. SENSOR MAINTENANCE ROOM - ON WORF AND GEORDI
Worf still lies in a heap on the floor, Geordi leaning
over him and checking for life signs. Worf begins to
stir, slowly at first, as the doors SLIDE OPEN and
Beverly and ASSISTANT ENTER at a dead run, medical
devices in hand. They quickly kneel at Worf, begin
checking him.
BEVERLY
What happened?
GEORDI
Don't know. It seemed like he
was hit by...
(shakes head)
... some sensor feedback, maybe.
Worf suddenly starts to powerfully flail his arms and
legs around, struggling against something we can't see.
The assistant tries to hang on, but Worf's Klingon
strength sends him across the room. Then, as Worf
flails at furniture in his way, easily splitting it,
Beverly has opened the medical kit with quick
efficiency, pulls out a hypospray, and administers it.
20 CLOSER - EMPHASIZING WORF
He stops struggling, looks around with eyes that seem
to be seeing for the first time. An expression of
wonder and amazement crosses his face. Beverly and
Geordi exchange a glance, both clearly concerned.
BEVERLY
Lieutenant Worf?
(no response)
Lieutenant, can you hear what I'm
saying?
Worf manages a sort of grunt, holds up a hand and
stares at it. Then he moves his body, trying to get
his feet under him. He is at first unable to get the
right coordination down, as though this simple act is
as foreign to him as it is to a newborn.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 9.
20 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(continuing)
Let's get him up.
They rise. Worf watches and sees how they do it. As
they both reach down to boost him by the arms, he
manages to get to his knees and start to push to his
feet. Beverly is studying him closely. He does not
seem violent now; he stares around more like a young and
bewildered child. Beverly nods to Geordi, picks up her
medical kit, and they start to lead Worf OUT. He moves
with them, slowly and carefully putting one foot ahead
of the other.
21 INT. READY ROOM - ANGLE ON GEORDI AND PICARD
Picard is at his desk, Geordi standing before it.
Picard looks up at him, frowning as:
GEORDI
He was just monitoring the sensor
console when he jerked as though
something hit him. What my
sensors showed...
(frowns)
... It was kind of a... glow... just
for a second. I can't explain it.
PICARD
Could your VISOR device have
malfunctioned?
GEORDI
Doubt it, sir. It seemed what
I was seeing was something real.
22 INT. SICKBAY - ANGLE ON BEVERLY, TROI, WORF
Worf lies on an examination table, Beverly and assistant
working over him with her medical scanners. Troi looks
up at the o.s. medical viewscreen, then back at Worf.
The Klingon is quiet now, his eyes moving around the
room and to the women. His attitude is one of quiet and
deep curiosity. Beverly finishes, smiles down at Worf.
BEVERLY
I'm going to give you something
to help you rest. Just relax.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 10.
22 CONTINUED:
Worf's expression remains unchanged. Beverly brings out
a hypospray and activates it on his arm. His eyelids
begin to sag closed almost immediately. Beverly puts
away the hypospray, motions Troi into her office.
23 INT. CRUSHER'S OFFICE - BEVERLY AND TROI
on their ENTRY:
BEVERLY
Fortunately, he's stronger than
an orbital tug. There's nothing
physically wrong with him. What
have you sensed?
TROI
Nothing... which bothers me. He
has never shielded his feelings
from me. I can't understand why
he is suddenly doing it now.
BEVERLY
Are you able to perceive anything
at all, Counselor? It may be
important.
TROI
(beat; concentrating)
Perhaps... very faintly.
Almost... like a frightened
child.
BEVERLY
Worf "frightened?"
TROI
It doesn't make much sense but...
(beat; concentrating)
Yes, it's fear. Definitely there.
They exchange puzzled looks.
24 OMITTED
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 11.
25 INT. BADAR N'D'D'S QUARTERS - ON TASHA AND
BADAR N'D'D
BADAR N'D'D is wraith-thin, pale, with glittering
lupine eyes; and when he curls his mouth in what looks
like a smile, some extremely long, sharp canines are
revealed. His clothing can only be described as
disreputable -- dark and loose, somehow lumpy (as though
it hides body parts we don't want to know about).
Tasha's tremulous smile is offset by a twitch of her
nose that indicates Anticans don't smell too nice.
Riker ENTERS.
TASHA
Sorry to call you, sir, not
strictly security, it's about
the dietary requirements of the
Antican delegates.
26 INTERCUT RIKER AND TASHA
RIKER
I thought that had been taken care
of in advance, Tasha.
TASHA
So did we, sir. Their live
animals were beamed aboard -- We
were going to preserve the meat
for them, but ....
(squeamishly)
... they say we must bring it to
them alive.
RIKER
(beat)
Then do so!
(to the Antican)
Lieutenant Yar was... confused.
We no longer enslave animals
for food purposes.
BADAR N'D'D
But we have seen humans eat meat!
The Antican grins -- a terrifying display of long,
sharp fangs.
RIKER
You've seen something as fresh
and tasty as living meat, but
inorganically materialized out
of patterns used by our
transporters.
BADAR N'D'D
(in revulsion)
How sickening! How barbaric!
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 12.
27 INT. SICKBAY - ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND WORF (OPTICAL)
Worf lies sedated on one of the beds, being
automatically monitored by the medical computers.
Beverly approaches with a medical instrument in hand
to take some samples. She leans over the bed, using
the instrument on his arm. As she does, there is a
SUDDEN SPLIT-SECOND BURST OF ELECTRIC-LIKE ENERGY
BETWEEN THEM. Beverly is highlighted briefly by a BLUE
GLOW (OPTICAL). She steps back away from the bed,
blinking as if trying to assimilate some new
information.
28 ANOTHER ANGLE
Troi ENTERS from the Corridor. Beverly looks around
at her, puzzled, as Troi moves closer, looking up at
the medical viewscreen.
TROI
He's reading normal? How did you
manage that?
BEVERLY
(dazed)
Yes... normal, now.
TROI
(looks up quickly)
Are you all right?
BEVERLY
Yes... perfectly.
Beverly looks at the medical instrument in her hand,
seems to remember.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
Yes... both of us quite normal.
Beverly ministers to Worf. Worf starts to stir,
shaking his head and blinking as if clearing his head of
something.
WORF
Where... where am I?
TROI
Don't you remember? You were in
the Sensor Maintenance Room ---
WORF
I remember monitoring the sensor
console -- and that's all. What
am I doing here?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 13.
28 CONTINUED:
TROI
That's a story the doctor will
tell you.
She starts to smile over at Beverly, and the smile slips
a little. Beverly is staring at the medical viewer
again, deep in thought, paying no attention to Troi and
Worf.
29 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON DATA AND PICARD (OPTICAL)
at Science Station 1. Data is replaying visual of
"cloud" on the screen for Picard's observation.
DATA
I called it a "cloud" for lack
of a better term at the time.
But the sensor pass shows it as
much more. Combinations very
complex, precise energy
patterns...
PICARD
Constantly interacting on each
other?
DATA
Yes, sir... But whether
individually or as a whole, it
is difficult to say.
PICARD
Obviously, you seem to feel it
should be inspected more closely.
DATA
A mystery is only a mystery as
long as it remains uninvestigated,
sir.
PICARD
Ah. I love a mystery, Mister
Data, but this one has to wait
until we deliver the delegates
to their peace conference on
Parliament.
He walks down the ramp toward his command chair.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 14.
30 INT. CRUSHERS' QUARTERS - ON WESLEY
Wesley is in the living area, working with a P.A.D.D.
and a Viewscreen, quickly tapping commands into the
P.A.D.D. and watching figures or diagrams change on the
o.s. viewer. The quarters doors are HEARD to SLIDE
OPEN, and Wesley looks around.
31 WESLEY'S P.O.V. - BEVERLY
Beverly comes in, looks around apparently startled as
Wesley speaks, but she seems to recover composure
quickly. (NOTE: Throughout, Beverly appears remote,
not displaying her normal warmth toward her son, views
him almost as though he is an interesting stranger.)
WESLEY
Hi Mom. You're back early.
BEVERLY
Yes.
She moves closer to him and looks at the viewer as he
indicates it and the P.A.D.D.
WESLEY
Physical sciences class. We're
studying Doctor Channing's theory
on dilithium crystals.
BEVERLY
Tell me about it.
Wesley looks up at her, slightly puzzled. She never
was interested before -- now her eyes glitter with an
unaccustomed curiosity.
WESLEY
Really? You never seemed that
interested in warp theory before.
(indicates)
Doctor Channing thinks it's
possible to force dilithium into
even more useful crystals. If
as shown here, matter and
antimatter could be aligned even
more efficiently...
BEVERLY
(interrupting)
Would that affect navigation?
WESLEY
This is engineering, not helm
control.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 15.
31 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Oh yes, the helm's located on the
bridge.
WESLEY
(stares, concerned)
Mom, is something wrong?
Without answering, turns and heads for the door. Wesley
stares after her, frowning, as she EXITS.
32 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD
He glances around as the turbolift doors OPEN, and
Beverly ENTERS and advances down the ramp toward Geordi,
back at his helm position. (NOTE: She is still not
acting in her usual manner. Everything about the bridge
seems to be of interest to her, as though she's never
seen it before. She responds with darting, curious
little looks when spoken to, not quite able to focus
long on the person whom she addresses. Her speech
patterns have become very formal, also not like her.
Also notice she does not call the captain by his rank or
address him as "sir.")
BEVERLY
(to herself)
This... is the helm.
Geordi looks up surprised, then grins, nods.
GEORDI
Unless there have been some
changes I don't know about.
PICARD
Doctor Crusher?
BEVERLY
You will wish to know Lieutenant
Worf is much improved. Ready to
report back on duty.
PICARD
What was the diagnosis?
Beverly heads for the upper bridge.
BEVERLY
A temporary mental abberation.
PICARD
When it concerns a bridge officer,
I expect a better explanation,
Doctor.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 16.
32 CONTINUED:
Beverly nods, moves toward the Science Stations.
BEVERLY
Then I must first run some
crosschecks in the
library-computer. Klingons are
so unusual in their reactions,
aren't they?
PICARD
(still puzzled, but:)
Take Science Station Two, Doctor.
33 ANGLE ON BEVERLY (OPTICAL)
moving to where Data is in view too. She begins calling
up information. Innocently, Data glances to her
Viewscreen. What he sees there puzzles but does not
alarm him.
DATA
Intriguing, Doctor. What does
helm control have to do with
medical crosschecks?
She ignores him, then seems satisfied over what she
views. Data has turned back to his own panel -- Beverly
appears to carefully pick out a place in which to touch
her panel again... and as she does so, a blue electronic
EFFECT APPEARS BRIEFLY ON THE PANEL, then quickly
DISAPPEARS. Beverly blinks, then looks around as if
awaking from a dream.
BEVERLY
I... I don't know why I'm...
DATA
(looks up)
Is something wrong, Doctor?
34 ANGLING ON PICARD AND UPPER BRIDGE
Picard looks around, concerned over Beverly seeming to
be disoriented.
PICARD
Doctor, are you all right?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 17.
34 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Yes... yes. I -- I'll do my work
from my office. That's where I
should be...
She MOVES OFF quickly toward the turbolift. Picard
watches her, still concerned.
PICARD
Do you want someone to accompany
you?
She EXITS into the turbolift. And the doors CLOSE.
Picard turns to Troi.
PICARD
Counselor, what's happening to
my people?
Interrupted by Data at Science Station 1. He suddenly
straightens, frowning.
DATA
Captain? There is a malfunction
in this station. I cannot bring
any information up on it.
He moves quickly to Science Station 2, WE SEE that
console go dead.
DATA
(continuing)
Science Two does not function
either, sir.
35 WIDER ANGLE
Then, quickly, from the communications panel:
SINGH'S COM VOICE
Engineering to Captain Picard.
We have something wrong with warp
drive circuitry, sir.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
Transporter Room Six to bridge.
Reporting transporter console
malfunction, sir.
PICARD
Mister Data, this ship is less
than a year out of spacedock.
What are the chances of all this
occurring?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT ONE 18.
35 CONTINUED:
DATA
It is a virtual impossibility,
sir.
PICARD
So what the hell is going on
here?
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 19.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
36 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
sweeping along at warp speed - nothing to indicate
there's trouble aboard this magnificent machine.
37 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD (OPTICAL)
He is irritated, pacing, snapping off his comments with
a certain amount of acid etching his words. Through
the window WE CAN SEE warp stars flashing past.
PICARD
... I don't understand it,
Gentlemen. I need information.
You're telling me there is no
explanation for any of these
malfunctions?
As he speaks, CAMERA PULLS BACK TO REVEAL he has on the
carpet before him Singh, Data, several other Department
Heads. Riker sits beside him feeling no less on the
carpet himself.
RIKER
At least, sir, all department
heads report the damage repaired.
PICARD
That was not the question, Number
One. What caused the
malfunctions?
SINGH
I believe it was a rampant
electronic short that jumped from
system to system, sir. The only
thing is --
PICARD
Yes, Mister Singh?
SINGH
That shouldn't be possible. The
affected systems don't generally
interact with each other -- and
where they do, it wasn't the
interlink that was malfunctioning.
PICARD
Have you spoken with Chief
Engineer Argyle about the problem?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 20.
37 CONTINUED
SINGH
With all the engineering staff,
sir. They're just as puzzled.
PICARD
I am not satisfied with that.
(to the others)
I want explanations of this by
the time we get to Parliament.
SINGH
But...
PICARD
By the time we get to
Parliament, Mr. Singh.
38 INT. BADAR N'D'D'S QUARTERS - ANGLE ON RIKER
This is a "Basic Quarters Suite," without special wall
decorations, fairly simple solid-color furniture. The
Main Room seen here is very low-lit, with dark corners
and shadows prevailing. Riker is speaking firmly as
we COME IN:
RIKER
These weapons were removed
from two of your people who were
loitering out of sight in the
vicinity of the Selay delegation
quarters. Would you care to
explain, sir?
CAMERA PULLS BACK TO REVEAL Riker holding out two
tubes, somewhat resembling Allen wrenches, but with
several curiously shaped buttons along the top of the
"barrel." Riker and Tasha are facing Badar N'D'D, who
glances at the tubes and lifts a disdainful eyebrow.
BADAR N'D'D
Those are not weapons, First
Officer. They are tools we use
to dispatch the animals we consume.
TASHA
Your food supply is not on the
same deck as the Selay delegation,
sir.
RIKER
And you will admit these "tools"
can kill.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 21.
38 CONTINUED
BADAR N'D'D
(shrugs)
Some of my people are impulsive.
and we all have reason to hate
the Selay.
TASHA
They appear to have the same
feelings about you, sir.
BADAR N'D'D
(shrugs again)
That is the nature of politics.
RIKER
Nonetheless, Chief Delegate, I'm
putting you on notice that all
weapons -- no matter what their
basic function -- are being
confiscated. Violence will not
be tolerated on the Enterprise.
BADAR N'D'D
Of course not. And if any does
occur, I can assure you it will
not be we Anticans who start it.
RIKER AND TASHA
Thank you, sir.
They turn and EXIT, taking the two tube weapons with
them. As the DOOR CLOSES behind them:
BADAR N'D'D
(ominously)
But we will finish it.
39 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
blasting along at warp speed.
40 INT. ENGINEER'S OFFICE - ANGLE ON SINGH, GEORDI, WESLEY
They are at one of the consoles, Singh doing something
complex at a panel, with Geordi and Wesley looking over
his shoulder.
41 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING WORF
Worf is at Conn, routinely monitoring his panel and
appearing to be no worse for wear after his ordeal.
Suddenly, he straightens, tabs in a command, frowns,
tabs it again.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 22.
41 CONTINUED:
WORF
Sir, warp power is fading!
PICARD
Picard to Engineering. What is
our problem?
WORF
Warp five... four... three...
two...
42 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
EFFECT SHOT of going from WARP SPEED to SUB-WARP.
43 INT. ENGINEER'S OFFICE - EMPHASIZING SINGH
The assistant chief engineer is working the panel,
shaking his head.
SINGH
We've lost the warp engine
computer tie!
WESLEY
And we just dropped below warp
one, sir.
GEORDI
Go to impulse power!
44 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD
He frowns, not happy, but he's just the boss around
here. He doesn't make the damned thing go.
PICARD
State of the art vessel? Hah.
Commander Data, signal Parliament
that we will be delayed. We will
send the new arrival time as soon
as determined.
DATA
Yes, sir.
He turns to his Ops panel, inspecting it.
DATA
(continuing)
Sir, subspace radio is out.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 23.
45 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM - PICARD, RIKER, DATA
Riker and Data sit opposite Picard at the desk. Picard
finishes a review of reports on his viewscreen, snaps
it off irritably.
PICARD
Your theories on the sudden
vulnerability of these systems,
gentlemen?
DATA
If the Enterprise were really this
fragile, sir, she never would have
gotten out of spacedock.
Therefore, her systems failures
are not endemic to the ship, but
are more likely the result of the
actions of an unknown adversary.
RIKER
We have a saboteur aboard.
DATA
I believe I said that.
PICARD
(firmly)
Gentlemen. The question now is,
who. I can't believe it's one
of our people.
RIKER
Agreed. Which leaves someone in
either alien delegation. If the
Ferengi bribed or bought even one
of them, that's all that would
be needed.
DATA
Ferengi contacts have been
detected on both Selay and Antica,
sir.
PICARD
Can any of you suggest another
solution?
RIKER
(amused)
You're sounding like a private
eye, sir.
DATA
Query: private eye?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 24.
45 CONTINUED
PICARD
A private consulting investigator
who solves crimes.
DATA
A most interesting occupation.
PICARD
In the world of fact, it is, Data.
However in literature, criminal
detection becomes a fascinating
exercise.
(a glance to Riker)
The immortal Sherlock Holmes would
have an interesting view of our
mystery, I believe.
Data cocks an eyebrow; WE CAN SEE him mentally making
a note to remember that name. Meanwhile:
RIKER
I'm sure, sir -- but I'm afraid
we have to find our solution
without History's Greatest
Consulting Detective.
46 INT. ENGINEER'S OFFICE - ANGLE ON SINGH AND WESLEY
conferring over a panel. Wesley suddenly points to a
pertinent display.
WESLEY
Is it there, Mister Singh? If
the control network breaks at that
point...
SINGH
(nods)
... it bleeds warp engine command
off into dead ends.
(to Wesley)
Excellent. I believe I can
handle it from there, Mister Crusher.
Wesley looks up, disappointed. Now that he's spotted
the problem, he wants to stay for the solution.
WESLEY
But, sir --
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 25.
46 CONTINUED
SINGH
Your schedule shows classwork now.
Sorry.
WESLEY
Yes, sir.
(heads for door; turns)
But I don't learn nearly this much
in school.
SINGH
(smiles)
I tend to agree. But the captain's
orders on this are very clear.
47 INT. CRUSHERS' QUARTERS - ANGLE ON BEVERLY
She is dressed casually, relaxing in a chair, reading.
She glances up and smiles as Wesley ENTERS.
BEVERLY
Solve any new problems today?
WESLEY
I was starting to, maybe, but
Mister Singh sent me off to class.
BEVERLY
Wes -- you're only an acting
ensign.
(slight smile)
You have to let the commissioned
officers do some of the work.
WESLEY
Mom, listen. I've learned more
than they understand. For
example, on Channing's dilithium
crystals theory I was telling you
about...
BEVERLY
(frowns; puzzled)
When did you tell me about that?
WESLEY
This morning. Don't you remember?
Beverly stares at him, starting to grow a little
concerned.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT TWO 26.
47 CONTINUED
BEVERLY
Honestly, I don't, Wes.
WESLEY
You asked if the warp engines had
to do with navigation, and I said --
BEVERLY
Why would I have said that?
The two of them look at each other. Why, indeed?
48 INT. ENGINEER'S OFFICE - ANGLE ON SINGH (OPTICAL)
working at the console where we saw him earlier. He
is busy, digging into the problem, checking his results
on a viewscreen that pulls up different schematics as
he works the board. He reviews the schematic currently
on the screen, nods to himself, reaches for the panel
again. Suddenly, a BLUE GLOW SURROUNDS HIM (OPTICAL),
and he stiffens, shaking convulsively. A SCREAM is
choked off as the power racks his body -- and he
plummets off the chair to the deck. The BLUE GLOW
FADES... leaving him lying motionless on the floor.
A beat, Worf ENTERS from the Corridor outside
Engineering.
WORF
Mister Singh, the Captain wants --
He pauses a short beat as he sees Singh's body, then
he quickly rushes in to check for heartbeat and pulse.
Nothing.
WORF
(continuing)
Engineering to bridge. Security
alert!
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard.
WORF
Lieutenant Worf, sir. I just found
Mister Singh.... he's dead.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 27.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
49 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
moving through space on IMPULSE POWER.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41249.4.
Assistant Chief Engineer Singh
has been found dead in the Engine
Room Office, cause unknown. We
continue to run on impulse power.
50 INT. READY ROOM - PICARD, RIKER, CRUSHER, TASHA
Tasha is very upset over Singh's death.
PICARD
(to Beverly)
I want the autopsy as soon as
possible, Doctor.
TASHA
Captain, I'm so sorry. To have
one of our people die like this...
PICARD
First, let's find out how he died.
Doctor?
BEVERLY
The autopsy is underway, sir.
PICARD
(to Riker)
It could be... a word you're not
to use...
(leans in; low voice)
...murder. Status of
investigation?
TASHA
Underway.
RIKER
Our best people.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 28.
51 INT. ENGINEER'S OFFICE - ANGLE ON WORF, WESLEY, GEORDI
They are clustered around the console where Singh died.
Geordi is examining the panels there; Wesley steps up
from behind, indicates a place on the panel.
WESLEY
Sir, he may have been working
there on restoring warp power.
GEORDI
(eyes panel; then)
According to these readings, we
could go back to warp speed now.
Wesley examines the board, looks up, surprised:
WESLEY
But that wasn't the reading when
I left.
WORF
Singh probably repaired it just
before he was killed.
WESLEY
But he couldn't have fixed it from
here, sir! The problems we saw
were inside the engines!
GEORDI
Who else could have corrected it,
Wes?
(to Worf)
Inform the bridge of engine
status.
52 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON PICARD
WORF'S COM VOICE
We now have warp capacity, sir.
All power on line.
PICARD
Well done. Warp engines ready.
(to conn)
On previous heading, warp factor
six.
53 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship leaps into warp, the stars blurring as she
makes the jump.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 29.
54 INT. GUEST QUARTERS - ANGLE ON TASHA, BADAR N'D'D
The quarters are still low-lit, mysterious. Badar N'D'D
reclines on a low couch, looking up at Tasha with
complete disinterest.
BADAR N'D'D
I tolerate these questions,
Lieutenant Yar, because I need
this vessel to get us to
Parliament. Your shipboard
problems do not concern me.
TASHA
They should. Our delays are your
delays.
BADAR N'D'D
(waves it away)
The peace conference will wait
for us.
TASHA
I must ask where you were during
this vessel's Earth hours of 1800
last night and 0700 this morning.
BADAR N'D'D
Eating.
TASHA
Sir, I'm talking about hours
here...
BADAR N'D'D
It was a large meal.
(smiles, revealing sharp
canines)
And an interesting animal.
Tasha grimaces at the idea.
55 INT. CRUSHER'S OFFICE - TROI, BEVERLY, WORF
as Worf APPEARS at the door of Beverly's office where
Troi and Beverly wait.
WORF
You wanted me, Doctor?
BEVERLY
Yes, concerning your memory
blackout.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 30.
55 CONTINUED:
WORF
(nods)
I still don't remember having one.
BEVERLY
The same thing happened to me.
TROI
I want to try hypnosis on both
of you. It may restore your
memory as to what happened.
Beverly nods immediately. They turn to Worf who has
hesitated.
WORF
I fear such things, but...
BEVERLY
Fear from you, Worf?
Worf nods.
56 INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS - DATA, RIKER, TASHA (OPTICAL)
They are gathered in chairs near the windows. (Warp
speed.) Riker and Tasha compare notes on a portable
viewer pad. Data is watching... and smoking a "Sherlock
Holmes" style pipe. Tasha is more troubled by this than
Riker.
TASHA
One thing is clear... Almost all
the "peace" delegates answered
our questions with lies.
DATA
Imprecise, Lieutenant. They
omitted certain truths, which in
itself tells us something.
TASHA
We can learn something from
non-disclosure?
DATA
Oh, indubitably, my good woman.
Tasha gives Riker a puzzled look. Indubitably? My good
woman? During which, Data puffs on the pipe and Tasha
pulls back as he exhales.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 31.
56 CONTINUED:
RIKER
It's something the Captain
mentioned. Sherlock Holmes, which
Data is obviously studying...
DATA
(interrupting)
Has studied, sir - every case.
(indicates)
As Holmes would have pointed
out... during the time in
question, something was afoot!
TASHA
(uncertain of the word)
"Afoot?"
Riker is becoming amused at Data's playing the "great
detective" role ... and at Tasha's reaction to it.
Meanwhile, Data has ignored Tasha's puzzlement over the
word afoot.
DATA
While both sets of delegates say
they were in their quarters, our
crew locator sensed them passing
here...
(indicates)
... and here.
TASHA
But since they don't show where
they went, we're still in the
dark.
DATA
On the contrary, dear colleague -
on their return they drew medical
supplies appropriate to the
treatment of minor wounds and
abrasions on these life forms.
RIKER
Which, leaves you with only one
conclusion.
DATA
Exactly. That they were too
engaged in their own affairs to
have disabled our ship and
murdered the engineer. Given a
choice, they'd rather kill each
other than any of us. It's
elementary my dear Riker...sir.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 32.
56 CONTINUED: (2)
Tasha has been looking from one to the other during
this. She hesitates now, clearly uncomfortable.
TASHA
Speaking of aberrant behavior...
She isn't joking.
57 INT. SICKBAY - ANGLE ON TROI, BEVERLY AND WORF
Troi has a small machine before her which emits a
resonant, melodic HUM and on which LIGHTS FLASH in a
systematic pattern. She has just finished a "pass" with
it in front of Beverly's face. Beverly sits in the desk
chair in a light hypnotic trance. Worf watches
intently; he has just gone through this himself.
TROI
Beverly... can you hear me?
BEVERLY
Yes.
TROI
I want you to go back in your mind
to the moment when you first
recall this sensation of memory
loss. Please picture it exactly
as it occurred.
BEVERLY
(pause; then:)
He's lying on the hospital bed
sedated. I'm walking up to
him... I---
(distressed)
I -- I -- I --
TROI
Gently...gently. How do you feel
at this moment -- as you lean over
him to take the specimen?
BEVERLY
I... feel... someone else...
something else there too...
TROI
(waits; then:)
Go on.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 33.
57 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(frowns, shakes head)
I feel crowded. Not alone...
get out. Get out of my mind!
Beverly is tossing her head, as if to shake free of
something. Troi turns to Worf and nods, indicating
Beverly.
TROI
You said almost exactly the same
thing -- as though there were
something else inside you.
58 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE - ANGLE ON PICARD, OFFICERS
(OPTICAL)
Picard is at his desk, facing Troi, Beverly, Riker, Data
(with pipe), and Tasha; we're at warp speed as WE COME
IN:
TROI
-- Which confirms the feeling of
duality that I sensed earlier in
both of them.
PICARD
Why didn't you report it?
TROI
Because, sir, I assumed at first
it was the kind of duality we
Betazoids feel in all of you.
(sees Picard's
expression harden)
Even you, sir. When you approach
a decision and ask yourself which
way to go... who are you talking
to?
PICARD
(beat; his expression
still saying
"nonsense")
Your hypnotism revealed another
form of duality?
TROI
Yes, sir. I believe something
invaded them.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 34.
58 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(nods)
It seems the only possible
conclusion.
Picard stands, paces behind his desk irritably, catches
sight of Data and pipe.
PICARD
Data, let's proceed without the
pipe.
DATA
If you wish, sir...
(sets pipe down)
... but I ask if you take it as
incontrovertible that it cannot
be a family member or one of our
crew?
PICARD
(beat, considering;
then:)
Yes. Very unlikely.
DATA
Then our investigation was
worthwhile, sir. We have eliminated
both the delegates and all our
regular ship's complement.
PICARD
What are you suggesting?
Data is inclined to pick up the pipe again, but
remembers that Picard just issued an order about it.
DATA
I am referring to the Great
Detective's credo, sir. I
quote... "We must fall back on
the old axiom that when other
contingencies fail, whatever
remains, however improbable, must
be the truth."
59 OMITTED
Riker and Picard exchange looks.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 35.
60 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
Geordi is at his usual Conn station; Wesley sits beside
him at Ops. Worf is seated in Riker's chair.
Supernumeraries are at aft stations.
61 CLOSER ON GEORDI AND WESLEY
Wesley is quiet, faintly depressed. Geordi looks over
at him, grins.
GEORDI
Wes, everything's fixed now.
WESLEY
That engine computer net wasn't
repaired, sir. It just suddenly
became all right.
GEORDI
It's the result that counts.
(glances down at panel)
What --- ?
62 WIDER ANGLE - ON COMMAND STATIONS
WORF
What is it?
GEORDI
Helm control just went down.
(works panel - nothing)
She won't respond.
WORF
Bridge to Captain. You're needed
here immediately.
Geordi works the panel controls, without result.
GEORDI
Wes, alert Engineering from your
panel.
WESLEY
(works panel)
Trying...
63 ANGLE AT READY ROOM DOOR
Picard ENTERS bridge fast, Riker, Troi, Tasha, Data
FOLLOWING, moving toward their stations. Beverly
FOLLOWS them out onto the bridge, as:
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 36.
63 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Report.
WORF
Helm is down, sir. The ship's
running wild ---
64 ANGLE ON PICARD
moving to Geordi at Conn. Picard stands by Geordi.
65 ANGLE ON GEORDI, DATA, WESLEY
Wesley swiftly rises, makes room for Data to take over
the panel. Geordi turns in his seat to look up at
Picard as:
GEORDI
Sir, we dropped to impulse
power --
66 CLOSE ON PICARD
He bends over Geordi. His left hand rests near the
small control panel at Conn.
67 OMITTED
68 CLOSE ON PICARD (OPTICAL)
The strange BLUE GLOW FLASHES around Picard for a split
second, then FADES.
69 INCLUDING GEORDI
staring at Picard.
GEORDI
Sir... ? Are you all right? I
thought I just saw ---
70 ON PICARD
Picard remains sitting stiffly for a beat as though
frozen by what has happened, and then his face takes
on a slightly different expression.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT THREE 37.
70 CONTINUED:
PICARD
I'm fine.
(beat)
Everything is fine now.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 38.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
71 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling on impulse power, unguided by any human hand.
72 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD
Geordi is concerned at something happening at his
position.
PICARD
Why the drop to impulse power,
Lieutenant?
GEORDI
(turns to Picard)
The helm is suddenly
malfunctioning, sir.
PICARD
Malfunctioning? You're wrong --
Look again.
GEORDI
(turning to console)
Sir, I ---
He breaks off, staring at the panel.
RIKER
Mister La Forge?
GEORDI
(a beat; puzzled)
There's nothing wrong with the
helm now. Everything is -- just
as it should be, sir.
PICARD
In that case, make our heading
two-nine-five mark three-seven.
GEORDI
Sir... ?
PICARD
You have a problem with that
heading, Lieutenant?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 39.
72 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Do you want to double back on our
course, sir?
PICARD
That is what I've ordered.
A puzzled Geordi begins touching helm controls.
73 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
going into a graceful turn which will take her in the
opposite direction. As it finishes the turn, the ship
jumps into warp speed.
74 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
The bridge crew still at their positions.
75 ANGLE ON TROI
concentrating her mind on Picard, uncertain. Picard has
appeared lucid; his order to reverse course is not
contrary to Starfleet policy or out-of-line for a
starship captain.
76 EMPHASIZING PICARD AND RIKER
Picard looks entirely normal, but with a very alert
quality.
RIKER
Captain... I'm puzzled about your
reversing our course.
77 ANGLE ON DATA, RIKER, TROI
exchanging looks of puzzlement. Why double back on
course?
78 INCLUDING PICARD AND GEORDI
PICARD
The energy "cloud," Commander --
I believe it important to have
another look at it.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 40.
78 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Sir, we're behind schedule to
Parliament already ---
PICARD
I believe a very important
scientific discovery awaits us
on this heading.
TROI
(looks up; beat)
Perhaps you'll share your
reasoning on that, sir?
DATA
Yes, since we obtained only
minimal information on our sensor
pass of it.
PICARD
We must go back to learn more.
(to Troi; thin smile)
Counselor... do you believe a ship
captain should explain every
order?
TROI
(beat; shakes her head)
Of course not, sir.
79 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
now heading the opposite direction, going back the way
she came at warp speed.
79A INT. CORRIDOR
Badar N'D'D is being chased down the Corridor by a
SECURITY GUARD.
BADAR N'D'D
I demand to see the captain.
FIRST SECURITY GUARD
Stop, return to your quarters... !
A stateroom door OPENS to REVEAL Ssestar trying to edge
outside past a SECOND SECURITY GUARD there. First
security guard has managed to stop Badar N'D'D who
whirls toward the Selay delegate in revulsion.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 41.
79A CONTINUED:
SSESTAR
(indicating Badar N'D'D)
What is that doing on our deck?
BADAR N'D'D
(to Security Guard)
I demand to know why this starship
has changed course!
FIRST SECURITY GUARD
Please return to your quarters,
delegates!
80 INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS
Riker, Data, Troi and Geordi as Beverly ENTERS.
RIKER
You're late and you asked for this
confidential meeting.
BEVERLY
Sorry. I was just so troubled
by my talk with the captain.
Something seems wrong... terribly
wrong.
TROI
(hesitant)
I believe I sense something
... different in the Captain ... not
much and maybe I'm incorrect.
(indicates Riker, Data
and Geordi)
They think I may be.
RIKER
(to Troi)
You could be reacting to the
reverse course order.
GEORDI
But that's our captain. It's not
the first time he's done something
unusual.
DATA
A mere change of direction hardly
justifies mutiny.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 42.
80 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(to Troi)
Exactly what do you believe you're
sensing?
TROI
Exactly?
(shakes head)
It's difficult to put into
words... just a feeling that
he's, well... closed part of his
mind to me.
GEORDI
How can you tell there's something
there that you can't feel?
TROI
As I said... it's hard to say.
I just feel the captain's become
... perhaps dangerous.
RIKER
If he's dangerous...if...
GEORDI
... he'd have to be relieved from
command.
(to Beverly)
Which you're allowed to do... but
it's beaucoup trouble if you're
wrong.
DATA
And at this moment it is all pure
speculation. He has done nothing
to subject the Enterprise to
danger.
BEVERLY
Besides, I'd need a medical log
giving clear evidence of
incapacity.
(to Riker)
You could do it without that
problem...
RIKER
Only if all command officers
agreed it vital to do so. But
he's not showing overt unusual
behavior.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 43.
80 CONTINUED: (2)
TROI
Ultimately he will, I believe...
BEVERLY
Commander, as second in command,
it's still in your corner. I'll
order medical and psychiatric
exams... You'll have to back me
up somehow.
81 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling through space at warp speed. Direction should
be the same as PREVIOUS SHOT.
RIKER (V.O.)
First Officer's log, stardate
41249.5. As I believed, the
senior command officers refused
to relieve the captain from duty
on such slender evidence.
82 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM - ANGLE ON PICARD
He looks up as Riker and Beverly ENTER the room and
CROSS to face him over the desk. Picard looks up:
PICARD
Yes?
BEVERLY
I'd like you to come to Sickbay
for some examinations, Captain.
PICARD
Oh?
(nods)
I'll be glad to do that when I'm
free.
BEVERLY
I'd like to conduct them now, sir.
PICARD
Why?
(to Riker)
What can I do for you, Number One?
RIKER
Sir, Counselor Troi has
recommended the examinations.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 44.
82 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(thin smile)
Same question. Why?
83 CLOSER SHOT
Riker firms up.
RIKER
It is my duty to inform the
captain that we believe it
possible that he is under some
kind of alien influence
which... may constitute a danger
to this ship.
Another flicker of a smile from Picard. It never gets
to his eyes, and there's no humor in it.
PICARD
I consider it equally possible
that you two and the counselor
are overworked, and possibly
suffering hallucinations.
(to Beverly)
This is an order... you're to
arrange medical and psychiatric
exams of both yourself and them.
Doctor, you realize you're all
acting strangely?
BEVERLY
I'm concerned that you've suddenly
turned the ship away from...
PICARD
(interrupting; hard)
What's happened to your mind,
Doctor? The search for knowledge
is always our primary mission.
(stands)
I'm sorry but I'm too busy for
this kind of nonsense. Must I
call security to force you to
report to Sickbay?
On his cold, penetrating stare, Riker and Beverly EXIT.
84 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
proceeding on her way back to the "Cloud" at warp
speed.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 45.
85 INT. CORRIDOR NEAR ENGINEERING - ANGLE ON TURBOLIFT
The corridor is oddly low lit. As the turbolift DOORS
OPEN and Riker STEPS OUT, he glances around, frowning
at the lack of light. He starts toward Engineering,
and a SPARKLING LOOP suddenly whips over his head and
around his neck. He lurches back, yanked by the
garrote; then it is abruptly loosened. Riker regains
his balance as the garrote is whipped away from his
neck, and he turns to see:
86 ANOTHER ANGLE - SSESTAR AND RIKER
RIKER
What in hell... ?
The large Reptilian manages what appears to be an
apologetic smile.
SSESTAR
Sorry. Wrong species.
He backs away, still offering the smile, then turns and
HURRIES DOWN the corridor to huddle with four other
Selays. Riker fingers his throat ruefully, goes to a
computer interface on a nearby wall and touches it.
RIKER
Riker to security chief.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Yar here.
RIKER
Security squad to the Engineering
Deck. The Selays are playing hide
and seek down here -- obviously
with the Anticans --
(rubs throat)
-- and it's a lethal game. I want
them returned to their quarters
under guard.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Right away, sir.
(hesitantly)
And are you... aware sir, the
captain expects you to take a
medical exam?
RIKER
I'll do it later.
87 OMITTED
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 46.
88 INT. READY ROOM - ANGLE ON PICARD
He is working feverishly at an o.s. personal Viewscreen,
absorbing the information at an intense rate. A CHIME
SOUNDS, and he looks up as though he is not sure at
first what it means. Then he registers and:
PICARD
Come.
89 ANGLE TO INCLUDE BEVERLY
The doors slide OPEN, and Beverly ENTERS. She is in
medical "blues." She is trying to appear relaxed and
confident, but nagging thoughts run around her mind
asking about why she is really here.
PICARD
What do you want?
BEVERLY
I have the results of the exams
you ordered.
She offers a record tape, he tosses it aside and leans
back in his chair... content and confident.
90 OMITTED
91 TWO SHOT - BEVERLY AND PICARD
BEVERLY
You don't care to inspect them?
Picard ignores her, she picks up her courage, moves
closer.
BEVERLY
Please, are you Jean-Luc?
Slowly, Picard looks up, aware of both her and her
physical closeness. He touches her hand. A long
hesitation, then gently:
PICARD
He is here.
BEVERLY
The Jean-Luc I know?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FOUR 47.
91 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(nods)
And more.
BEVERLY
The "more" frightens me...
PICARD
And elates us. We wish you could
understand the glorious adventures
ahead.
BEVERLY
You and... ?
PICARD
Soon we'll both be home.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 48.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
92 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND "CLOUD" (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise slows to impulse power as it heads for
the large energy pattern "Cloud" which can be seen in
far b.g.
RIKER (V.O.)
(troubled)
First officer's log, supplemental.
On the orders of... Captain
Picard, we have returned to the
vicinity of the energy pattern
"cloud." I am personally
convinced that something from this
"cloud" now shares...
93 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE SHOT
All officers at their regular duty stations, except for
Picard, who is not present. Riker is in the command
chair.
RIKER (V.O.)
(continuing)
... the captain's mind. But there
seems to be nothing we can do...
at least within regulations.
There have been no actions
warranting relieving Captain
Picard. And our medical
personnel, while dubious about
his condition, are not prepared
to certify the captain's
incapacity.
At the Conn position, Geordi turns to look back at
Riker.
GEORDI
Approaching the "cloud," sir.
RIKER
Very well, Mister La Forge. Bring
us to within ten thousand
kilometers and hold us there.
GEORDI
Aye, sir.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 49.
93 CONTINUED:
Picard ENTERS from his Ready Room. Riker gets out of
the command chair.
RIKER
Shall we begin the scientific
tests that you wanted, sir?
PICARD
(smiles)
They are already underway.
94 ANGLE ON MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
The energy pattern "shape" spreads out across the reach
of space, as we saw it earlier.
95 EMPHASIZING PICARD
as he looks at the viewscreen. His face is transformed,
showing longing and even a kind of love. Then he turns
to the bridge.
PICARD
I have an announcement for the
entire bridge.
96 PICARD AND VIEWER (OPTICAL)
Reaction and concern from all on the bridge as Picard
moves to stand in front of the viewscreen.
PICARD
As many of you suspected...
(indicating "cloud"
image)
... when our ship passed through
the edge of this, it accidentally
carried off a sentient being... one
much like these energy patterns
we're seeing here.
Picard moves toward Worf.
97 VARIOUS ANGLE ON PRINCIPALS
as Picard moves to the helm.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 50.
97 CONTINUED:
PICARD
A frightening experience for any
intelligent being. As if a great
claw reached down and scooped up
any of you from your home world.
Drawn into the energy pathways
of this vessel...
(to Worf)
... it found its way to you, Worf,
frantic at being carried from its
home. Recognizing you as
sentient beings, it pleaded for
help.
98 SHOT OF COMMAND AREA
Picard moving toward where Beverly stands nearby.
PICARD
... but in ways you could not
understand... going desperately
from one to another of you...
then discovering the computer
intelligence in the ship's memory
circuits.
(nods)
Simplistic intelligence, but it
furnished a way to slow this
Enterprise thing that had captured
it.
(toward Riker)
And it very much regrets the
accidental death of Engineer Singh
during this...
TROI
(interrupting)
Captain, do you exist in
combination with the entity?
RIKER)
Is it in control of you, sir?
PICARD)
(that smile again)
By the time we combined...
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 51.
99 REACTION ANGLES
as the bridge crew hears him admit the entity is now
part of him.
PICARD
... We had learned much about each
other... our passion for
exploration... for the unknown.
We found we had similar
dreams... and it offered your
captain a way to realize them
beyond any human expectation.
RIKER
Captain, I must speak to you
privately...now.
DATA
I understand. As an energy
pattern free of the limitations
of matter... it might travel
anywhere, at any velocity...
RIKER
(angry)
Captain, did you hear me?
DATA
(intent on Picard)
Sir, I see no way for you to
journey with an energy form.
PICARD
(ignoring Riker)
Isn't there?
TROI
(reacting to a thought)
Maybe... just maybe...
(to Riker)
He's planning to beam both the
entity and himself into that
"cloud."
PICARD
(nods)
The transporter need not pattern
your captain back into matter...
we'll beam energy only...
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 52.
100 ANGLE INCLUDING BEVERLY
reacting in some disgust and anger at his words and
expression now.
PICARD
(ecstatic)
... and we will become...
(pleased look)
... a combined energy pattern of
that life form.
101 ANGLE ON COMMAND AREA - INCLUDING BEVERLY
as Picard turns to Riker.
PICARD
A resignation from this command
and from Starfleet has been
appropriately recorded...
RIKER
(moving in; firmly)
I refuse to allow this, sir.
PICARD
Oh? Under what Fleet regulation?
Does this resignation threaten
the ship and its company in any
way?
BEVERLY
(moving in)
Captain Picard, you are now
relieved from duty. I judge you
disabled...
102 ANGLE ON PICARD (OPTICAL)
moving his hand toward a nearby panel.
BEVERLY (O.S.)
... mentally incapacitated...
Picard's hand touches the panel and WE SEE the familiar
BLUE GLOW, at which the panel becomes a BRILLIANT
DISPLAY OF LIGHT on a darkened bridge. Surprised VOICES
and GROANS, all matched to:
RIKER (O.S.)
Security! Help me restrain the
Captain...
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 53.
102 CONTINUED:
TROI (O.S.)
This is blinding me...
TASHA (O.S.)
... Where is he? These light
flashes...
103 FULL ON BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
BLINDING BLUE LIGHT from all panels, ENERGY FORMS
(lightning-like) flings some of the bridge crew to the
floor...
WORF
Captain! I'll help you if you'll
let me...
104 ANGLE AT TURBOLIFT (OPTICAL)
as in the darkness WE MAKE OUT a Figure ENTERING the
turbolift, the door CLOSING.
105 ANGLE ON RIKER (OPTICAL)
Intermittently ILLUMINATED BY THE BRILLIANT FLASHES as
he gets zapped again, then again, struggling to reach
the captain's panel.
RIKER
Hang on to the captain, someone!
He makes it, hits the RED ALERT switch... which SOUNDS
THE KLAXON and begins the RED ALARM LIGHTS BLINKING.
106 INT. CORRIDOR
Darkened too, but the FLASHING RED LIGHTS illuminate
Picard turning into the Transporter Room.
107 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
where a crewman lies unconscious. Picard, relieved to
see the crewman stirring somewhat, makes a setting on
the transporter panel, jumps to the platform as WE HEAR
the TRANSPORTER SOUND begin.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 54.
108 FULL ON TRANSPORTER PLATFORM
as the TRANSPORTER EFFECT takes Picard away from the
Enterprise.
109 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND "CLOUD" (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise hovers even closer to the "cloud,"
waiting.
110 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
Riker is in the command chair -- all others at their
usual stations except Tasha who ENTERS very concerned
and upset. Riker glances around the bridge, then:
TASHA
The Transporter Chief has no idea
of what the coordinates were, sir.
GEORDI
He's just out there "somewhere?"
How can we settle for that?
RIKER
Give me a choice, then.
DATA
Still no readings, no sign of
anything.
Long hesitation; then, Riker sighs.
RIKER
Mister La Forge, it's time to
set a course for Parliament. Warp
eight.
GEORDI
We're really leaving him... ?
RIKER
I've waited as long as possible,
Lieutenant.
111 EMPHASIZING TROI
She stiffens suddenly in her seat, reaching out to grab
Riker's arm.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 55.
111 CONTINUED:
TROI
Wait! I'm feeling... yes, it's
the captain!
(concentrating)
The captain only. He's out there
alone!
RIKER
The entity... has it abandoned him?
TROI
Aban... ? No, the combination just
wasn't possible out there.
(intently; fast)
The Captain's in trouble, sir;
we must beam him back!
RIKER
Beam him back as what? He's
nothing but energy now.
112 ANGLE INCLUDING GEORDI
turning to Riker, matching his pace. Time may be
important to the Captain now.
DATA
Sir, the entity was caught by
the ship's circuitry -- the
captain might try to get in the
same way if he's in trouble!
RIKER
(to Geordi)
Move the ship in closer!
As Geordi turns, hurriedly doing so.
GEORDI
Moving in, sir. But where?
RIKER
No way to know. Let's hope he
can come part way himself.
113 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND "CLOUD" (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise moving close, then closer.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 56.
114 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
showing Enterprise coming even closer -- the "cloud's"
energy patterns becoming visible.
115 REACTION SHOT
The helm officers, intent, hoping.
116 REACTION SHOT
The Command Area with Riker and Troi -- then Beverly
ENTERS with Wesley. She indicates her son to Riker,
questioningly. Riker nods, goes back to his intent
examination of the viewer.
RIKER
Troi, is there any way you can...
"get" a message to him?
TROI
(shakes head sadly)
I wish I could.
117 SHOT INCLUDING DATA
as he swivels toward Riker.
GEORDI
Sensors are monitoring our
perimeter, the ship's circuitry...
(shakes head)
Nothing, sir.
RIKER
(interrupting)
Take us into the edge of it, La
Forge.
As he looks toward the Main Viewer:
118 FULL ON MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
The "cloud" moving toward us -- then we're into it.
119 COMMAND AREA
Riker still intent on the viewer.
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 57.
119 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
Mom, is he gone for good?
Beverly shushes her son. He tries almost a whisper:
WESLEY)
(continuing)
The funny thing is, I... I sort
of liked him...
120 INCLUDING TASHA AND WORF (OPTICAL)
Worf is suddenly startled by a reading on his panel.
WORF
Sir! On my sensor controls...
A sudden BLUE GLOW APPEARS, like that which earlier
indicated the entity's presence. Followed by a CRACKLE
OF ENERGY which sees Worf stepping back, alarmed.
TROI
Something's here. I can feel it!
DATA
Just as before! Going to you
first, Worf...
GEORDI
(interrupting)
Something crazy on my viewer
circuits...
(looking toward Viewer)
Commander Riker!
Riker leaps toward Geordi's station.
121 FULL ON GEORDI'S VIEWER (OPTICAL)
An area of static is APPEARING. The STATIC IMAGE is
undefined at first but is becoming a "shape," although
not yet recognizeable.
121A INCLUDING COMMAND AND HELM AREAS
Very curious.
GEORDI
"Static?"
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 58.
121B FULL ON MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
The STATIC IMAGE as if with great effort, slowly forms
itself into a lop-sided IMAGE of the letter "P."
122 INCLUDING COMMAND AND HELM AREAS
Riker coming to his feet.
RIKER
"P" for Picard!
Data moves quickly toward Riker.
DATA
He's in the ship's circuitry!
Come to the Transporter Room.
Please!
Data HURRIES toward the turbolift. Then he turns.
DATA
(continuing)
There might be a way, sir! Hurry!
Riker decides to HURRY to the turbolift himself. He
joins Data and the turbolift doors CLOSE.
123 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
moving away, the "cloud" now in b.g.
124 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
where Data makes quick adjustments at the control
panel.
RIKER
This is a wild theory Data!
DATA
I knew we had to have the
captain's physical pattern here,
He was the last one beamed out.
RIKER
Is what you're thinking possible?
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 59.
124 CONTINUED:
DATA
Unknown at this time, sir. I
hope the captain remembers his
pattern is here.
(steps back)
If he has, his energy has moved
into the transporter relays by
now...
RIKER
(nods)
Wish we had some sign he's there.
(waits; then)
We've no choice but to risk it.
DATA
(nodding)
Energizing, sir!
125 SHOT INCLUDING TRANSPORTER PLATFORM
as Data engages the transporter. Riker waits...waits.
126 TWO SHOT OF RIKER AND DATA
watching anxiously, their disappointment building. They
exchange a worried look.
127 TRANSPORTER PLATFORM (OPTICAL)
The TRANSPORTER EFFECT builds slowly, a bit unevenly...
then firms up, finally MATERIALIZING PICARD. He looks
around, surprised.
PICARD
What the devil am I doing here?!
RIKER
(quietly)
Sounds like our Captain...
Picard begins MOVING OFF the platform.
DATA
But confused. This Picard-pattern
was formed before he went out
there...
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 60.
127 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(to Riker)
What's happening to me, Number
One? I was ready to beam away...
somewhere... I remember talk of
an... an entity? But all that
seems so vague...
DATA
(to Riker)
I believe the Captain is now his
separate self, sir. A lot of what
happened is naturally missing...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Data, what nonsense are you
talking now? Is it still
"Sherlock Holmes?"
Data hesitates, exchanging a look with Riker who gives
an almost imperceptible nod.
DATA
Ah, yes. Indubitably, sir,
indubitably.
PICARD
(beginning to EXIT)
Well, at least get rid of that
damned pipe. It smells.
As the captain ALMOST EXITS, Riker intercepts him.
RIKER
Doctor Crusher asked me to steer
you past Sickbay. She says you've
looked very tired.
Tasha ENTERS hurriedly.
TASHA
Sorry Commander, but Security Team
Two reports they've discovered
a puddle of blood outside the
Selay Quarters and they can't
find one of the delegates and...
STAR TREK: "Lonely Among Us" - 8/21/87 - ACT FIVE 61.
127 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(interrupting; annoyed)
Lieutenant, couldn't this have
waited a moment? We've got the
captain back.
TASHA
(to Picard)
Good to see you, sir. The problem
is that one of the cooks has just
been asked to broil Reptile for
the Anticans... and it looks like
the Selay delegate...
PICARD
Riker, with these "peace"
delegates and all, I do need some
rest. Take charge, Number One.
128 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The "cloud" in far b.g. as WE SEE the Enterprise go into
WARP SPEED EFFECT.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END