STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Coming Of Age"
(fka "Starfleet Academy")
#40271-119
Written by
Sandy Fries
Directed by
Mike Vejar
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
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 This script is not for publication or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.
3RD REV. FINAL DRAFT
DECEMBER 30, 1987
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Coming Of Age"
CAST
PICARD JAKE KURLAND
RIKER ADMIRAL GREGORY QUINN
BEVERLY LT. COMMANDER DEXTER REMMICK
DATA MORDOCK
TROI OLIANA MIRREN
TASHA T'SHANIK
WORF TAC OFFICER CHANG
GEORDI RONDON
WESLEY TECHNICIAN #1
TECHNICIAN #2
Voice-Over
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Coming Of Age"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
Deck 21 Forward Lounge
Transporter Room RELVA 7 (PLANET)
Corridor
SHUTTLECRAFT
Captain's Ready Room
Main bridge
Holodeck
Admiral's Quarters
Main Engineering
RELVA 7
Classroom
Corridor
Testing Room
Long corridor
Environmental Lab
SHUTTLECRAFT
Cockpit
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Coming Of Age"
TEASER
FADE IN:
A1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
orbiting the planet Relva 7.
B1 INT. ENTERPRISE - CORRIDOR
WESLEY is running down the corridor after someone.
WESLEY
Hey, Jake! Wait a second!
JAKE KURLAND, eighteen, dark-haired and intense, stops
and waits for Wesley.
WESLEY
(continuing)
How're you doing?
JAKE
(tries to smile)
I'm fine. Really.
WESLEY
I'm real sorry...
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Acting Ensign Crusher, report to
Deck Twenty-one Forward Lounge.
Wesley ignores the request.
JAKE
It's not your fault.
WESLEY
Yes, I know, but I wish we were
both going.
JAKE
(shrugging)
Only thirty-two points...
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Acting Ensign Crusher, respond.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - TEASER 2.
B1 CONTINUED:
Wesley touches a com panel.
WESLEY
I'm on my way.
Wesley looks at Jake.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Gotta go.
They shake hands.
JAKE
Do well for both of us.
Wesley smiles at Jake and HURRIES BACK the other way.
Jake stares dejectedly after him.
C1 INT. CORRIDOR - OUTSIDE DECK 21 FORWARD LOUNGE
Beverly waits for Wesley just outside the lounge.
WESLEY
Mom, I can't be late.
BEVERLY
Don't worry. You have time.
1 INT. DECK 21 FORWARD LOUNGE
A large cake with seventeen BURNING candles is in the
center of the table. It says "HAPPY 16TH BIRTHDAY" and
"GOOD LUCK, WESLEY." The whole BRIDGE CREW waits
around the table as Wesley ENTERS with Beverly. He's
touched, embarrassed and -- wants to get out of there.
RIKER
Happy Birthday, Wesley!
Everyone ECHOES THE SENTIMENT.
WESLEY
Thanks everybody. But it's not
until next month.
RIKER
Close enough.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - TEASER 3.
1 CONTINUED:
TROI
You won't be here next month.
After you pass the entrance exam,
you'll be on your way to Starfleet
Academy.
BEVERLY
Go on, make a wish.
Wesley closes his eyes, thinks a moment, then blows out
the candles. Everyone CLAPS as he makes the first cut.
Troi takes over and cuts cake for everyone, handing
pieces to Riker and Wesley.
RIKER
You'll breeze through those
tests.
WESLEY
I hope so, sir.
RIKER
I know so. I remember how tough
it was for me.
He pauses, reliving the fear, then smiles at Wesley.
RIKER
(continuing)
But you've got brains, and family
tradition, and actual experience.
WESLEY
I wish I felt that sure.
GEORDI
I was scared to death the whole
time. But it's good for you.
Keeps your adrenaline going. Not
that you'll need it, Wes.
1A ANOTHER ANGLE
Troi hands pieces of cake to Data and Worf.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - TEASER 4.
1A CONTINUED:
DATA
Thank you... Humans are
fascinating. They celebrate the
passage of time with such joy
until a certain age, and then it
becomes a topic of some
discomfort. I suppose it is
because each birthday is another
step towards inevitable death.
Do Klingons observe birthdays,
Worf?
WORF
Klingons are born, live as
warriors, and die.
DATA
Then how do you know how old you
are?
WORF
I don't. Do you know?
DATA
I have no age.
Data stares at Beverly, who's standing next to Picard.
BEVERLY
Is there something wrong?
DATA
No. I am simply trying to
understand the celebration of
aging. And how old were you when
Wesley was born, Doctor?
Beverly shoves her piece of cake at him.
BEVERLY
Have some cake, Data.
She LEAVES him standing there with Picard.
DATA
I do not understand, sir. Why...
PICARD
You never ask a woman her age,
Mister Data.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - TEASER 5.
1A CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
I am very confused, sir.
PICARD
Some customs will never change.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Acting Ensign Crusher, this is
the Transporter Room. We are
ready to beam you down to Relva 7.
WESLEY
(to the party)
Thanks for the party, everyone.
And the good wishes.
They all RESPOND with "Good luck;" "Go get 'em;"
"You'll do great."
TASHA'S COM VOICE
Captain Picard.
PICARD
(touching his
communicator)
Picard here.
TASHA'S COM VOICE
We've received communication from
Relva 7 that Admiral Gregory Quinn
is about to beam aboard, sir.
PICARD
Admiral Gregory Quinn. Why wasn't
I informed earlier, Lieutenant
Yar?
TASHA'S COM VOICE
We just received the request, sir.
Picard gestures to Riker.
PICARD
I'm on my way to the Transporter
Room, Lieutenant. Number One!
Picard and Riker FOLLOW Wesley and Beverly OUT the
door.
1B
thru OMITTED
1C
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - TEASER 6.
2 OMITTED
3 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Riker, Picard and Beverly say good-bye to Wesley.
Beverly reaches out to shake his hand, but Wesley leans
over and kisses her. He nods and Tasha works the
console and Wesley BEAMS DOWN to Relva 7. A beat, then
almost immediately, ADMIRAL GREGORY QUINN and
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER DEXTER REMMICK BEAM UP. Quinn is
a rugged man in his early sixties. He is accompanied
by Remmick, a young, blond, dedicated officer. They
step off the platform.
PICARD
This is unexpected. Welcome
aboard, Admiral.
QUINN
Thank you. Captain Jean-Luc
Picard, Lieutenant Commander
Dexter Remmick.
REMMICK
Sir.
They shake hands, then Remmick steps back and watches.
PICARD
Allow me to present my staff:
First Officer William Riker, Chief
Medical Officer Beverly Crusher,
chief of security, Lieutenant
Tasha Yar.
Quinn nods to them.
PICARD
(continuing)
What can we do for you?
QUINN
I need to speak with you.
PICARD
Certainly. This way. Number One.
They turn to leave, as:
QUINN
No. Alone.
PICARD
Is this personal?
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - TEASER 7.
3 CONTINUED:
QUINN
Official business.
PICARD
Then my first officer...
QUINN
... Alone, Captain.
This is unheard of. It's as if Riker's in big trouble
and no one knows why, as WE:
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 8.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
4 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it orbits Relva 7.
PICARD (V. O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41416. 2.
We are orbiting Relva 7, one of
the testing sites where final
examinations are taking place for
entrance into Starfleet Academy.
But with the appearance of my old
colleague, Admiral Gregory Quinn,
our stay has taken on another
meaning.
5 OMITTED
5A INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard and Quinn ENTER. Remmick stands off to the
side.
QUINN
Commander Remmick is with the
Inspector General's office.
PICARD
Oh?
QUINN
He'll be conducting a complete
investigation of the Enterprise.
PICARD
What are you looking for?
Quinn turns to especially include Remmick. Remmick
stands almost at attention.
QUINN
I have reason to believe there
may be something very wrong on
this ship... very wrong.
PICARD
Tell me what you suspect.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 9.
5A CONTINUED:
QUINN
No. It's... inappropriate to
discuss it now. We'll go over
it fully when Mister Remmick
concludes his investigation.
(turns to Remmick)
You will find out what is wrong
on this ship. Starfleet is
depending on you.
REMMICK
Yes, sir.
(glances at Picard)
Nothing and no one will stand in
my way.
QUINN
And you, Captain, are ordered to
cooperate in every way necessary
with the investigation. Clear?
PICARD
Yes, sir.
QUINN
Mister Remmick, unless there are
further questions...
REMMICK
No questions, sir.
QUINN
Get on with your duties.
REMMICK
Yes, sir!
Remmick purposefully EXITS. When the door CLOSES:
PICARD
Greg, we've known each other for
years. If you weren't just
motivating young Mister Remmick, tell
me what you believe is wrong.
Quinn dodges the question.
QUINN
Captain, it is vitally important
that my orders are followed
exactly. I'll be staying on the
ship.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 10.
5A CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
As you wish, Admiral.
6 EXT. RELVA 7 (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING the planet.
7 INT. RELVA 7 - CLASSROOM
Wesley is the first one to ARRIVE in the high-tech
classroom. He looks around the room uncomfortably.
There's an impressive array of DEVICES, including a
special SENSOR UNIT. He reaches down to inspect it,
but puts it back guiltily as OLIANA MIRREN ENTERS.
She's a gorgeous eighteen-year-old human, a red-head
with sparkle and probably a temper.
OLIANA
What is it?
WESLEY
What?
OLIANA
The unit you just put down. Don't
worry. I won't tell anybody.
WESLEY
Oh. It's a flux coordinating
sensor.
Oliana puts out her hand. Wesley takes it and
absentmindedly holds it. He's mesmerized by her.
OLIANA
I'm Oliana Mirren, one of the
other finalists. You must be
Wesley Crusher.
She gently removes her hand from his.
WESLEY
Yeah! You know me?
OLIANA
I heard there was a very smart,
very young man who'd be tough
competition.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 11.
7 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
(embarrassed)
Well, you wouldn't be here if...
OLIANA
... I weren't smart? I know. But
there's a lot more to it than
that. You're lucky - you've had
practical experience on the
Enterprise.
As she speaks, the door OPENS and T'SHANIK, a dark
young Vulcan woman, who looks as if she's surprised
anyone else bothered to show up, ENTERS with MORDOCK,
a powerfully built alien with a special suit using
circulating gas tubes. Mordock hangs back a little,
quietly.
T'SHANIK
Oliana.
(to Wesley)
T'Shanik of Vulcana Regar.
WESLEY
Wesley Crusher, from the
Enterprise.
T'SHANIK
You don't look as if you meet the
age requirements.
WESLEY
Uh, I'll be sixteen next month.
OLIANA
(pats him on the
shoulder)
Happy birthday. When this is all
over, we'll celebrate.
Wesley basks in the thought of celebrating anything
with her, then realizes he's being rude. He turns to
Mordock.
WESLEY
Hi. I'm Wesley Crusher.
Mordock nods and moves forward.
MORDOCK
Mordock.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 12.
7 CONTINUED: (2)
WESLEY
Mordock? The Mordock? The
Benzite who constructed the
Mordock Strategy? I thought you
already were in the Academy.
MORDOCK
No. Only a hopeful, like you.
WESLEY
You're a legend in the Galactic
Computer Network...
TAC OFFICER CHANG ENTERS and walks to the head of the
classroom.
CHANG
Finalists, please take your
seats...
The Four take seats at individual computer stations, as
Chang continues.
CHANG
(continuing)
I'm TAC Officer Chang. Welcome.
You are here because you are all
top candidates. Although only
one student will be chosen for
the Academy, you have shown from
the preliminary testing that any
of you could easily qualify.
(makes eye contact with
each)
We are looking for the person who
combines all the important
qualities necessary to be part
of Starfleet's future. Integrity,
intelligence, courage,
imagination... and that
indefinable quality of leadership.
This may be the most difficult,
exhausting experience of your
life. And the most exciting
challenge. Expect the
unexpected... May you all do your
best... Now, we'll begin.
Chang LEAVES the room as the computers LIGHT UP. The
four students immediately start the test. And the
faster they answer the questions, the faster the
computer asks them.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 13.
7 CONTINUED: (3)
They're all pounding away at extreme high speeds, but
with different kinds of energy, and each time they take
a test they'll respond with the same kind of energy.
Wesley concentrates completely and works at an
incredibly fast, even pace.
T'Shanik works quickly, calmly and methodically.
Mordock, with great intensity.
Oliana, alternates bursts of energy with quiet. The
students continue with their answers.
8 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit.
8A INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker commands the bridge, with Data and Geordi, Tasha
and Worf at their regular stations. Remmick stands
over Data, just watching him sit there. Remmick HOLDS
A HAND DEVICE which he will carry with him everywhere
-- A MINIATURE PERSONAL COMPUTER where he punches in
every observation. Riker watches him without saying a
word.
DATA
May I help you, Mister Remmick?
REMMICK
Just keep on doing whatever it
is you're doing, Commander Data.
DATA
Yes, sir.
Data continues staring, as Remmick moves over to
Geordi.. and stands over him, making entries in his
computer.
GEORDI
There's nothing much to see here,
Commander. We're in standard
orbit. And, uh, the station has
to be manned, even if it's
routine...
STAR TREK: "Coming of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 14.
8A CONTINUED:
RIKER
Is there something I can help you
with, Mister Remmick?
Remmick whips around to Riker.
REMMICK
When I'm ready, Mister Riker, I'll
want to speak with you.
Privately.
Remmick moves aft, to stand next to Worf. Remmick
watches Worf work at his console and makes more notes.
Worf pretends he's not there. Geordi turns to Data.
GEORDI
Just having that guy around makes
me feel guilty.
(to Riker)
Commander, what's this guy after?
RIKER
I don't know, Geordi. But I'm
going to find out. Now.
He gets up and heads purposefully for the Captain's
Ready Room.
9
thru OMITTED
10
11 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard is at his desk, star window at his shoulder.
The doorbell CHIMES.
PICARD
Come.
Riker ENTERS, and sits down as the Captain motions him.
RIKER
Captain, may I speak frankly?
PICARD
Always, Number One.
RIKER
As executive officer, I should
be informed. I should know
everything you know.
STAR TREK: "Coming of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 15.
11 CONTINUED:
PICARD
I agree. You should.
RIKER
What's this about? Remmick is
going to turn this ship upside
down.
PICARD
That is his job.
RIKER
And mine is to make sure the ship
runs smoothly.
PICARD
Which you do very well.
RIKER
Sir, am I under investigation?
PICARD
I don't know.
RIKER
And if you did?
PICARD
I couldn't tell you.
RIKER
I don't understand, sir. This
is extremely frustrating.
PICARD
No less so for me. But I have
promised full cooperation. And
we shall give it.
Riker tries not to lose his temper.
RIKER
Sir.
He EXITS the Ready Room as Picard looks after him
unhappily.
12 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Remmick is waiting for Riker outside the captain's
Ready Room.
STAR TREK: "Coming of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT ONE 16.
12 CONTINUED:
REMMICK
I want some answers from you now,
Commander Riker.
RIKER
Later.
REMMICK
You were ordered to cooperate...
RIKER
When it doesn't interfere with
my duty. Not now, Remmick!
The crew watches the furious Riker head for the
turbolift.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Coming of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 17.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
13 EXT. RELVA 7 (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING.
14 INT. RELVA 7 - CLASSROOM
The four students sit in front of computer readout
screens set apart from each other. T'Shanik is the
only one who appears calm.
COMPUTER VOICE
Last question on the Hyper Space
Physics test: If the matter and
antimatter tanks on a Galaxy Class
starship are nine-tenths depleted,
calculate the intermix ratio
necessary to reach a starbase a
hundred light years away at warp
factor eight...
All the students begin to use the calculators attached
to the computer, except Wesley, who immediately punches
in the answer. T'Shanik reaches the answer almost
immediately. Mordock, driven and intense, is startled
at their speed, then pushes in his answer. Oliana
finishes last.
COMPUTER VOICE
(continuing)
Thank you, students. You now have
one hour free before the next
test.
The computer shuts down, its lights FADE OUT. T'Shanik
EXITS the classroom immediately as Wesley, Oliana and
Mordock relax.
MORDOCK
I admit, Wesley, you have a very
fast mind.
WESLEY
As soon as I realized it was a
trick question, there was only
one answer.
STAR TREK: "Coming of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 18.
14 CONTINUED:
MORDOCK
Yes. There is only one "ratio"
with matter-antimatter. One to
one.
Wesley sneaks a look at Oliana. Her jaw is set, then
she shrugs and smiles her bright smile at the two of
the them.
OLIANA
You're both very lucky. I can't
imagine what it feels like to have
things come so easily. I have
to push every step of the way.
WESLEY
Oh, no, Oliana, it doesn't come
easily. I have to study all the
time. Mordock's the one who's
brilliant.
OLIANA
You really don't know, do you?
It's a good thing you're cute,
Wesley, or you could really be
obnoxious.
She pushes her chair back and gets up.
OLIANA
(continuing)
See you later.
She LEAVES the room.
WESLEY
Did you hear that Mordock? She
said I was cute!
MORDOCK
Is that good, Wesley?
WESLEY
I don't know. I think so. Maybe.
I don't know.
MORDOCK
Perhaps I was incorrect about the
speed of your thought processes,
Wesley.
STAR TREK: "Coming of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 19.
15 OMITTED
16 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
orbiting Relva 7. ESTABLISHING.
16A OMITTED
17 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker STEPS OFF the turbolift and APPROACHES Picard.
RIKER
Captain, I think I should
apologize.
PICARD
No need, Number One. Mister
Remmick's presence is unnerving,
to say the least.
RIKER
Regardless, sir, I should realize
that whatever your reasons are,
they're valid. Whether or not
I understand them.
Remmick ENTERS the bridge.
REMMICK
Are you available now, Mister Riker?
Or do you still have duties to
perform?
RIKER
I'm available, Mister Remmick.
REMMICK
Any problem with using your Ready
Room, Captain?
The crew considers this an intrusion.
TASHA
I'll find him a comfortable place
on Deck Fifteen, sir.
REMMICK
It's more convenient here. Is
there a problem, Captain?
STAR TREK: "Coming of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 20.
17 CONTINUED:
PICARD
No, Mister Remmick. Be my guest.
Remmick ENTERS the Ready Room and motions for Riker to
FOLLOW.
18 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Remmick sits at Picard's desk, Riker in front of him.
REMMICK
There are several seeming
discrepancies in the captain's
log. Let's go over them, one by
one, shall we?
Riker is surprised -- he thought he was the one on the
hot seat, but it's Picard.
RIKER
The captain's log?
REMMICK
Yes. To your knowledge, has the
captain ever falsified a log?
RIKER
Have you discussed this with him?
REMMICK
Right now, I'm asking you.
RIKER
If you want to discuss anything
about Captain Picard, bring him
in here and ask him face to face.
REMMICK
You are required to answer my
questions, Mister Riker. Unless
you're trying to cover something
up? Now, there are several
discrepancies in the captain's
log. Shall we go over them, one
by one?
RIKER
Proceed.
19 OMITTED
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 21.
19A INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM (FORMERLY SCENE 16A)
Troi calmly faces Remmick.
REMMICK
Do you believe the captain is
emotionally and psychologically
fit for command of this starship?
There is nothing in his history
or his personality that might
suggest... mental lapses?
TROI
Nothing.
REMMICK
Not even the Ferengi incident with
his old ship, the Stargazer?
TROI
He was being controlled by a
mind-altering machine, Commander.
Without his knowledge.
REMMICK
I would say that was a mental
lapse.
20 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING
Geordi is working on a panel as Remmick questions him.
REMMICK
So, you are saying Captain Picard
had no control over this vessel.
He handed it over to Kosinski,
who took the entire crew to some
sort of "alternate" universe.
GEORDI
No, sir. That's not what I'm
saying. Kosinski was sent by
Starfleet to improve our warp
drive. The captain was ordered
to take him aboard.
REMMICK
According to his own logs, the
bridge crew didn't think highly
of Mister Kosinski's theories, yet
the captain allowed him access
to the engines anyway. Is that
true, La Forge?
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 22.
20 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Not exactly, sir.
REMMICK
One way or the other, La Forge,
Picard lost control of this ship.
Is that true?
GEORDI
Yes, but that's not how it
happened.
REMMICK
So, the answer is yes.
Geordi is completely frustrated as Remmick makes
notes.
21 OMITTED
22 INT. HOLODECK (OPTICAL)
It's empty and SILENT. Wesley stares off into the
distance, frowning. Worf ENTERS, startling Wesley.
WORF
Ensign Crusher... What are you
doing on the Holodeck? I thought
you were still on Relva 7.
WESLEY
I'm through testing for the day.
WORF
I'm sorry if I disturbed you.
I'll leave.
WESLEY
No! Stay. I thought I wanted
to be by myself, but I guess I
didn't really.
WORF
How is the testing?
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 23.
22 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
Okay. So far. It's not the ones
I've studied for I'm worried
about. It's the Psych Test,
facing my deepest fear and living
through it. I don't even know
what it is. I'm trying to figure
out what images to bring up.
WORF
Why?
WESLEY
I wanna scare myself. What do
you think -- Bulgallian rats?
Lightning storm?
WORF
Do those things frighten you?
WESLEY
Kinda. But's it's exciting, too.
You know, that rolling feeling
in your stomach?
WORF
No. I don't know. Wesley... The
Psych Test is no more or less
important than the rest of the
process.
WESLEY
That's what they said, but it's
all I can think about.
WORF
Thinking about what you can't
control simply wastes your energy
and creates its own fear.
WESLEY
(angry)
How can they know what my deepest
fear is when I don't?
WORF
(shrugs)
By analyzing your psychological
profile. They were right about
everyone I tested with. Including
myself.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 24.
22 CONTINUED: (2)
WESLEY
You? I didn't think there was
anything that could frighten a
Klingon warrior.
WORF
Only fools have no fear.
WESLEY
I'm sorry, Lieutenant Worf. I
shouldn't ask so many personal
questions.
Worf stares at Wesley for a moment.
WORF
It is very... difficult for me
to depend on anyone else. For
anything. But especially for my
life.
WESLEY
But on the Enterprise you do that
every day. Everyone depends on
everyone else to protect them.
WORF
Yes.
WESLEY
Then you got over it.
WORF
No. It is still my enemy.
Wesley looks at Worf with intense admiration.
23 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard and Riker are at the Aft Station reviewing
supply choices. Remmick stands, watching and making
entries.
RIKER
... With this new extricator, sir,
we could eliminate three other
bulky machines from cargo space.
PICARD
Excellent, Number One.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 25.
23 CONTINUED:
TASHA
Captain, there's an unauthorized
entry in Main Shuttlebay.
Remmick becomes intensely interested.
REMMICK
"Unauthorized?"
PICARD
Who is it, Lieutenant?
TASHA
The computer reads the I.D.
number of... Jake Kurland.
PICARD
Bridge to Main Shuttlebay.
Mister Kurland... This is Captain
Picard. Respond.
REMMICK
Isn't the area secured? I want
answers.
RIKER
Not now, Remmick... Captain, he's
going to take her out.
PICARD
Lock off the bay launch doors.
WORF
Too late, sir. He's using the
flight emergency override...
GEORDI
Smart kid.
Remmick's taking notes.
TASHA
... He's launching!
PICARD
Enterprise to shuttlecraft.
Mister Kurland.
23A EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLECRAFT (OPTICAL)
It LAUNCHES.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 26.
24 INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - COCKPIT
Jake's at the controls.
JAKE
Captain Picard. I'm going to
Beltane Nine to sign onto a
freighter. Tell my father I'm
sorry.
PICARD (V.O.)
Tell him in person. Bring the
ship back. Now.
Jake shakes his head and WHISPERS:
JAKE
No. I can't face him. I'm
leaving.
Jake works the controls, and the shuttle LURCHES, the
LIGHTS DIM, the ENGINE NOISE DIES. His face shows
panic as he frantically recomputes, and works the
controls again.
JAKE
(continuing)
I've lost power!
25 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The crew is shocked by Jake's mistake.
RIKER
All he's got left are his
maneuvering jets.
GEORDI
At that trajectory, he'll hit the
atmosphere and melt at two hundred
kilometers.
PICARD
Probable impact?
DATA
Atmospheric entry... seventy-eight
seconds.
PICARD
Options?
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT TWO 27.
25 CONTINUED:
TASHA
He's out of transporter range.
WORF
Tractor beam?
RIKER
Won't work. He's too far away
for a positive lock.
REMMICK
You're completely responsible for
that boy's life, Captain.
PICARD
(to Remmick)
Either get out of my way and be
quiet, or I will have you escorted
from the bridge... Visual on
shuttle cockpit.
TASHA
Visual on Main Viewer.
Jake's face APPEARS on the Main Viewer. He's
terrified.
JAKE (V.O.)
The engine's dead. What am I
gonna do?
PICARD
Stay calm, Jake. We'll get you
back.
The crew looks anxiously at Jake on the Viewer, then
at Picard, who is grim.
25A INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - COCKPIT (HIS P.O.V.) (OPTICAL)
As Jake watches Relva 7 looming closer by the second.
JAKE
Please help me!
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 28.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
26 EXT. SPACE - SHUTTLECRAFT (OPTICAL)
as it hurtles towards Relva 7.
27 INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - COCKPIT (CONTINUOUS ACTION)
(OPTICAL)
Jake's futilely fighting the useless controls. Relva 7
looms even CLOSER on his Viewer.
PICARD (V.O.)
Jake!
JAKE
It's no use, Captain. I'm going
to die out here.
28 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
ON the Main Viewer, Jake is desolate.
PICARD
Mister Kurland! You are not going
to die out there. Do exactly
as I tell you. Take the nose of
the shuttle and aim it directly
at Relva 7.
Riker and the others REACT to this, startled.
29 OMITTED
30 INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - COCKPIT (OPTICAL)
The planet's COMING CLOSER.
JAKE
Aim it at Relva? I can't do
that. It's crazy.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 29.
31 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The crew watches grimly.
DATA
Twenty-eight seconds to impact...
PICARD
Jake, listen carefully. I'm the
captain and I'm giving you an
order. Aim the shuttle at Relva.
Now.
32 INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - COCKPIT (OPTICAL)
Jake hesitates, then maneuvers the nose of the craft
directly at Relva.
JAKE
Okay. It's done.
33 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard is monitoring Data's console.
PICARD
Good. Monitor your speed
exactly. When it hits point zero-two-zero,
I want you to restart
the engine and pull up, hard!
33A INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - COCKPIT
ON Jake's face.
JAKE
Point zero-two-zero speed...
Captain, I sure hope you're right.
PICARD (V.O.)
You'll just have to trust me.
JAKE
(nodding)
Point zero-zero-three; zero-zero-nine;
zero-one-two...
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 30.
33B INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard, Riker and the others tensely watch Jake's face.
He's pouring sweat.
PICARD
Hang on tight. It's going to be
bumpy.
JAKE (V.O.)
Zero-one-five, zero-one-nine.
PICARD
Now! Start the engine!
33C INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - COCKPIT (OPTICAL)
Jake starts the engine. WE HEAR IT CATCH as he pulls
the shuttle up.
33D EXT. SPACE - SHUTTLECRAFT (OPTICAL)
WE SEE the shuttle angle off the planet's atmosphere.
34 OMITTED
35 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
CHEERS all around, including Remmick, who's standing
over the console.
RIKER
Incredible, Captain!
REMMICK
He bounced her off the atmosphere!
PICARD
Mister Kurland, can you maneuver the
shuttle home?
JAKE (V.O.)
Yes, sir.
PICARD
Do so. Then report to Mister Riker.
Jake is so relieved, he doesn't care he's in deep
trouble.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 31.
35 CONTINUED:
JAKE (V.O.)
Yes, sir!
RIKER
Main Shuttle Bay, prepare to
receive shuttle.
Remmick stops smiling.
REMMICK
Very... original, Captain. But
how did this child gain access
to a Shuttlecraft?
RIKER
Kurland is a highly qualified
Enterprise Academy candidate and
fully trained in many areas ...
including shuttles.
REMMICK
And did this "full" training
include discipline?
PICARD
Young men sometimes make rash
choices, Mister Remmick. Which is
why Mister Kurland will receive a
strong refresher specifically in
discipline...
REMMICK
I'll note that in my report.
Picard turns away from Remmick as Riker starts to
protest:
PICARD
Full cooperation, Number One.
36 EXT. RELVA 7 (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING.
37 INT. RELVA 7 - CORRIDOR
Wesley walks down the hall as Oliana is having an
intense M.O.S. discussion with Chang outside his
office. He's telling her what her point standing is
in relation to the other candidates. Chang ENTERS
his office, leaving her there looking dejected.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 32.
37 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
Oliana!
OLIANA
Oh. Hi, Wes.
WESLEY
I, um, thought you might want to
have lunch... together.
OLIANA
Thanks, but I'm not very hungry.
WESLEY
Oh... okay.
She pats him on the hand.
OLIANA
It's not you... it's just that
Mordock and you are so far ahead
in points, I'll never catch up.
WESLEY
Oh. Sorry.
(worried)
You're not leaving., are you?
OLIANA
And give up? Never. Besides,
it'll be good practice for next
year. See you later.
She's almost back to her cheerful self. Wesley stares
after her thoughtfully, then turns around, almost
bumping into Mordock.
MORDOCK
Ah, Wesley. Distracted by the
female human again. No matter.
It does not seem to diminish your
mental faculties. You do good
work.
WESLEY
Me? No, you're the one. I've
studied the Mordock Strategy...
MORDOCK
Are you a player of Benzite chess?
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 33.
37 CONTINUED: (2)
WESLEY
Sure!
MORDOCK
If you like, we can discuss this
at lunch... I am hungry.
Wesley cheers up.
WESLEY
Me too!
They start towards the Mess Hall. RONDON, an
irritable, powerful-looking Alien, WALKS TOWARDS them
with a package under his arm.
RONDON
(to Wesley)
You. I have a package for
Operations. Where is it?
WESLEY
End of the corridor on your right.
Room 406...
As Rondon walks away, he BUMPS right into Wesley.
RONDON
You blocked my path... you
Bulgallian sludge rat!
TAC Officer Chang LEAVES his office and HEADS their
way.
WESLEY
I apologize. An honest mistake,
okay? I'm sorry.
CHANG
Is there a problem here,
gentlemen?
WESLEY
No, sir... I, he...
RONDON
(shouting)
How dare you! I am Rondon, you
despicable Melanoid slimeworm!
(raises fist)
Liar!
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 34.
37 CONTINUED: (3)
Wesley sees the fist and suddenly becomes tough and
straightforward. He advances towards Rondon.
WESLEY
Who do you think you're bullying?
You bumped into me. It was your
mistake. You were rude.
(assuming defense
posture)
Do you want this to become
violent?
Mordock moves to separate them, but Chang motions him
back, as Wesley holds his ground. Abruptly, Rondon
warmly pats Wesley on the Back.
RONDON
Friend. I like you.
He turns and is GONE. Mordock is confused.
MORDOCK
A very strange reaction.
WESLEY
Not really. When he held up his
hand, I could see it was
webbed... the sign of a Zaldan.
CHANG
But you became hostile.
WESLEY
Zaldans are infuriated by
courtesy. They see it as a form
of phony social behavior, designed
to hide real feelings.
CHANG
Congratulations, Mister Crusher.
You handled that particular
incident very well.
Mordock is alerted.
MORDOCK
Was that "incident" deliberate?
CHANG
It's important to know how you
candidates deal with other
cultures, other species.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 35.
37 CONTINUED: (4)
MORDOCK
Then it was a test.
CHANG
Yes. Not all tests are
announced. Or what they appear
to be.
He smiles and LEAVES.
MORDOCK
Zaldans have webbed fingers?
I wouldn't have passed.
They share a look. They can't relax for a second.
38 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still in orbit.
39 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE - MONTAGE
Remmick holds court as he interviews the bridge
Officers, one by one. First is Data:
REMMICK
Commander Data, I'm getting very
little cooperation from the bridge
crew. You're an android, correct?
DATA
Yes, sir.
REMMICK
And as an android, you are
programmed to tell the entire
truth?
DATA
Yes, sir.
REMMICK
There is a problem with this ship,
Mister Data. It's in the records,
somewhere. I need your help to
find it.
DATA
All the ship's records are
available to you, sir.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 36.
39 CONTINUED:
REMMICK
This information is very cleverly
hidden. Your captain is not what
he appears to be. Do not forget
you have loyalty to Starfleet
above all else.
DATA
Loyalty is not the issue,
Commander. There is nothing wrong
with Captain Picard -- or the
ship's logs. Therefore there must
be something wrong with your
original assumption.
REMMICK
That is not acceptable, Mister Data.
DATA
Acceptable or not, sir, it is the
truth.
CUT TO:
Remmick interviewing Worf:
REMMICK
(looking at some notes)
Just how did this contaminant come
on board?
WORF
By accident, sir.
REMMICK
Meaning Captain Picard has no
standing procedure for this type
of situation?
WORF
No. Meaning "by accident" sir.
REMMICK
You don't like me very much, do
you?
WORF
Is it required, sir?
CUT TO:
Remmick interviewing Beverly:
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 37.
39 CONTINUED: (2)
REMMICK
How would you characterize your
relationship with Captain Picard?
BEVERLY
We're officers of Starfleet who
have known each other for many
years.
Remmick leans in towards her.
REMMICK
Everything said here is
confidential, Doctor. You can
be completely open with me.
BEVERLY
About what?
REMMICK
About how you feel serving with
a man who was responsible for the
death of your husband.
BEVERLY
My personal feelings about
Captain Picard are irrelevant
to this investigation. And none
of your business.
CUT TO:
Remmick with Picard.
REMMICK
Then you confirm the logs are
accurate: you violated the Prime
Directive with the Edo? You
deliberately interfered with their
laws?
PICARD
Yes. It's exactly as I explained
it in the log records.
REMMICK
All to save Doctor Crusher's son?
PICARD
One of my crew was held unjustly.
I stand by my decision.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT THREE 38.
39 CONTINUED: (3)
Remmick fumbles around, looking for something else to
ask.
PICARD
(continuing)
Mister Remmick, you have talked to
everyone on this ship. I think
you've had enough time to find
out whatever it is you need to
know.
REMMICK
Are you worried that if I keep
looking I'll find what you're
guilty of?
PICARD
The only thing I'm guilty of is
allowing this charade to go on
too long.
He gets up, as WE:
40 OMITTED
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FOUR 39.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
41 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around Relva 7.
42 INT. ENTERPRISE - ADMIRAL'S QUARTERS
The admiral looks weary as Picard and he watch each
other carefully.
PICARD
If it's me you're after, Admiral,
ask me directly what you want to
know. Then tell me exactly what's
going on.
QUINN
I need a little more time,
Jean-Luc.
PICARD
How much time? I won't tolerate
my crew being harassed any longer.
QUINN
Remmick's full report is almost
ready.
PICARD
I want to be here when he presents
it.
QUINN
That has always been my intention.
Quinn pushes a com button near his hand.
QUINN
(continuing)
Commander Remmick, report to
Admiral Quinn.
REMMICK'S COM VOICE
On my way, sir.
Picard looks at Quinn sadly.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FOUR 40.
42 CONTINUED:
PICARD
This has been a strain on our
friendship.
QUINN
I know. Believe me, Jean-Luc,
I regret that, but it has been
necessary.
43 EXT. RELVA 7 (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING.
44 INT. RELVA 7 - CLASSROOM
The four finalists are again in front of their separate
computer screens. Chang is at the front of the room.
CHANG
This test will be graded as to
the number of problems you
complete within the allotted time.
As the computers LIGHT UP, he LEAVES the room.
COMPUTER VOICE
The Carlundrum I.Q. Test will now
appear. The task is to predict
the variable patterns of Platonic
Solids. Your responses will be
timed. Begin.
The four students stare at their separate screens as
images APPEAR. Wesley watches the screen as various
SHAPES (triangles, squares, etc.) APPEAR in various
COLORS and PATTERNS, SPINNING in a space, ROTATING
along their axes, and REAPPEARING with DIFFERENT
markings. The PICTURE CHANGES rapidly from one to
another in seemingly meaningless combinations. Wesley
watches, then begins his move.
45 ANGLE ON WESLEY AND MORDOCK
as they continue to predict the patterns and program
the shapes and colors onto the screen before the
computer does. Wesley is really having a good time.
Mordock, on the other hand, is tense and misses one
or two sequences, then has to go back.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FOUR 41.
46 ACROSS THE ROOM
T'Shanik moves methodically and calmly through the
problems. Oliana moves with great bursts of energy,
then pauses.
47 WESLEY
pushes the console with ease. The time is rapidly
diminishing. Mordock begins to struggle.
MORDOCK
I... I can't get... it.
WESLEY
Don't fight it. Relax into it
and just do it automatically.
MORDOCK
No... it's going too fast!
Mordock jabs at the controls, but his fingers trip over
one another. Wesley glances over to Mordock's screen.
WESLEY
You're doing all right...
Wesley looks back to his screen, and keeps up, but has
lost a few seconds.
MORDOCK
No... no. Wesley, I can't do it.
Wesley glances away again, points at Mordock's screen.
WESLEY
(DIALOGUE TO BE WRITTEN)
Mordock realizes he's right, and punches the
combination in, finishing the test. The last set of
SHAPES FLASH different COLORS. Wesley finishes his
test a beat later.
COMPUTER VOICE
Test completed.
Mordock is very upset as Chang COMES BACK INTO the
room.
MORDOCK
Mister Chang...
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FOUR 42.
47 CONTINUED:
CHANG
Congratulations, Mordock. That
was the second fastest time
recorded on this test. You all
did well.
MORDOCK
It should not have been that way.
Mister Crusher helped me.
CHANG
Yes. I know. An interesting
choice, Mister Crusher. Especially
considering how close you and Mister
Mordock are in overall score.
WESLEY
Yes, sir.
CHANG
You all have an hour to prepare
for your last test.
WESLEY
The Psych Test, sir?
CHANG
We prefer to think of it as a
psychological evaluation based
on reactions to various individual
problems.
(smiles)
But the Psych Test will do.
48 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
orbiting Relva 7.
49 INT. ENTERPRISE - ADMIRAL'S QUARTERS
Remmick ENTERS.
REMMICK
Sir.
QUINN
Please sit down, Mister Remmick.
Proceed with your report.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FOUR 43.
49 CONTINUED:
Picard is intent, ready and willing to hear Remmick's
findings. Remmick is very uncomfortable.
REMMICK
Admiral, I've done my best to be
objective during this
investigation. And yet, I feel
a sense of failure.
He hesitates.
QUINN
Continue.
REMMICK
I couldn't find what you asked,
sir. I spoke with officer after
officer, at length. I probed the
log reports. And I have found
nothing wrong. Except, perhaps,
a casual familiarity among the
bridge crew, but... mostly that
comes from a sense of teamwork.
(beat)
I'm sorry, sir. I did my best.
QUINN
Quite. You're dismissed,
Commander.
REMMICK
Yes, sir.
He gets up to leave, and pauses at the door.
REMMICK
(continuing)
Captain Picard, my tour in the
Inspector General's office will
be up in six months. When I'm
finished, this is where I'd like
to serve, sir.
He nods and LEAVES. Picard looks at Quinn.
QUINN
Don't judge the young man too
harshly. He's a good officer.
PICARD
It's not him I'm judging.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FOUR 44.
49 CONTINUED: (2)
QUINN
Don't judge me too harshly,
either. Not until I'm finished.
We had to be very sure about you.
(beat)
Some time ago, a few of us in
Starfleet Command became
suspicious of problems within
the Federation.
PICARD
What kind of problems?
QUINN
Something or someone is trying
to destroy the fabric of all we've
built over the last two hundred
years.
PICARD
What's your evidence?
QUINN
I can't go into that. Too many
other people are involved. But
if we're right, this is the most
critical time in the history of
the Federation.
PICARD
What do you want from me?
QUINN
I don't know if the threat is
coming from within or from the
outside. I need people I can trust
in strong positions throughout
the Federation.
PICARD
You have my complete support.
You know that.
QUINN
Not enough. I want to promote
you to admiral, Jean-Luc. I want
you to take over as Commandant
of Starfleet Academy.
PICARD
The Academy?
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FOUR 45.
49 CONTINUED: (3)
QUINN
Yes. I need you close.
PICARD
Then there was never a problem
with the Enterprise.
QUINN
No. I had to be sure you hadn't
been co-opted.
PICARD
Greg, the real issue is politics.
I'm no good at politics. Surely
there are others more suited.
Picard isn't sure how to take all of this.
QUINN
I sense you're doubtful about
this. All right. Suppose it's
the rambling paranoia of an old
man. Even if I am wrong, and I
hope I am, you're still the best
man for the job.
PICARD
I appreciate the value of what
you're offering. It's not
something I can decide quickly.
Quinn pushes him.
QUINN
I need your answer soon, Captain.
PICARD
All right. You'll have it
tonight, Admiral.
As they shake hands, WE
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 46.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
50 EXT. RELVA 7 (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING.
51 INT. RELVA 7 - CORRIDOR
Wesley sits nervously waiting outside the Testing Room.
He closes his eyes and tries to do breathing exercises
to keep himself calm. Chang COMES OUT of the Testing
Room.
CHANG
Mister Mordock will be finished with
his Psych Test momentarily.
Wesley watches the door, waiting. It slides OPEN, but
no one is there. Then... Mordock EMERGES, badly
shaken, his face covered with sweat. He looks down
at his hands.
WESLEY
Mordock? Are you... all right?
Mordock tries not to scare Wesley.
MORDOCK
I will be...
CHANG
Mister Crusher... you're next. Good
luck.
Chang gestures for Wesley to enter. Wesley hesitates,
then STEPS THROUGH. The door slides SHUT behind him.
52 OMITTED
53 INT. RELVA 7 - TESTING ROOM
An ordinary room. White walls, two or three chairs, no
windows. Wesley looks around for some guidance as to
the next step. He waits a beat, then looks around and
decides to sit down. Still nothing.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 47.
53 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
Hello?
He gets up and starts to pace.
WESLEY
(continuing)
I'm here. I'm, uh, ready.
Nothing. He sits down again.
WESLEY
(continuing; muttering)
Maybe they forgot.
Wesley jumps up again and resumes pacing.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Breathe. Gotta remember to
breathe.
He's startled by something -- a sound, a sense of
something wrong. He becomes alert, checking out the
room. He takes another deep breath, then realizes he
hears something in the distance -- MUFFLED THUD. He
moves towards the door he entered. He listens intently
near the door, and hears a LOUDER NOISE. Wesley opens
the door manually and ENTERS the corridor.
54 INT. RELVA 7 - LONG CORRIDOR
Several more O.S. EXPLOSIONS. Wesley runs towards its
source. He reaches a door and hears ALARMS RINGING
and another EXPLOSION. The door says: "ENVIRONMENTAL
MAINTENANCE LABORATORY." He runs down the empty
corridor and YELLS.
WESLEY
Somebody help! Something's wrong
in the lab!
There is no response. Then he hears:
TECHNICIAN #1 (V.O.)
Help! We're trapped. Help!
We're gonna die.
COMPUTER VOICE (V.O.)
Evacuate immediately. Sixty-five
seconds to life-support seal-off.
Wesley presses the wallplate and the door GLIDES OPEN.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 48.
55 INT. RELVA 7 - ENVIRONMENTAL LAB
Wesley ENTERS cautiously. The door CLOSES behind him.
WIND HOWLS through the room, which has been partially
trashed by the explosions. It's FREEZING. A large
pipe has fractured, allowing fumes of liquid hydrogen
(or another gas) and a vortex of wind to act as a barrier
between Wesley and the TWO TECHNICIANS.
TECHNICIAN #1 is cowered in a corner, uninjured,
YELLING, on the other side of the wind tunnel. His
pathway out is partially blocked by debris, so he must
cross the vortex to get to the door.
TECHNICIAN #2, is trapped, under a piece of equipment
on the far side of the vortex, not far from Technician
#1.
Wesley hesitates, then makes his way ACROSS the HOWLING
WIND to the injured Technician. The WIND and COLD
continue to batter the two of them.
COMPUTER VOICE
Evacuate immediately. Forty-five
seconds to life-support seal-off.
Wesley tries to move the equipment off the trapped
man.
WESLEY
(to Technician #1)
Help me move this!
The Technician remains cowered in the corner, shaking
his head. Wesley keeps pushing the equipment.
WESLEY
(continuing)
You have to help me!
TECHNICIAN #1
I can't! It's too late. We're
going to die! The liquid
hydrogen's gonna blow!
TECHNICIAN #2
Please don't leave me! The
shut-off valve ruptured. If we
don't get out of here fast,
they'll seal us off to contain
the explosion!
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 49.
55 CONTINUED:
COMPUTER VOICE
Evacuate immediately. Twenty-five
seconds to seal-off.
Wesley finds something to use as a lever. The
equipment begins to move slightly. Beads of sweat pour
off Wesley's face as he makes a Herculean last effort.
Technician #2's leg is free. Wesley drags him out.
He turns to Technician #1.
WESLEY
Come on!
TECHNICIAN #1
There's no way out! I can't move
through that!
WESLEY
You have to. I can't carry you
both! You can walk. Come on.
COMPUTER VOICE
Evacuate immediately. Five
seconds to seal-off.
Technician #1 remains terrified in the corner. Wesley
hesitates a moment, then half-carries, half-drags
Technician #2 through the vortex towards the exit.
He looks back:
WESLEY
I'm sorry.
Wesley pulls Technician #2 THROUGH THE DOOR to the
corridor.
56 INT. RELVA 7 - CORRIDOR
Wesley pulls Technician #2 THROUGH THE DOOR INTO the
corridor. The door SNAPS SHUT behind him. Chang is
standing there, waiting. Wesley's heart is pounding,
his adrenaline up.
WESLEY
Officer Chang! There's been an...
CHANG
It's all right, Wesley.
The "injured" Technician gets up, brushes himself off,
and shakes Wesley's hand. Wesley's shocked.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 50.
56 CONTINUED:
TECHNICIAN #2
Thanks.
He WALKS down the corridor, leaving Wesley with Chang.
Wesley's still pale and breathing shallowly, when
Technician #1 EXITS the Lab, nods to them both, and
FOLLOWS the other Technician.
CHANG.
Excellent performance, Mister
Crusher.
WESLEY
Performance?!... That was the test.
CHANG
Yes.
WESLEY
But a man died!
CHANG
Theoretically, yes. You had to
make a choice. And you did.
There's no right or wrong about
it. Your greatest fear has been
that you couldn't make that
decision.
Wesley just looks at him, and nods his head slowly.
WESLEY
Because of my father? Because
Cap... someone made that choice
and my father died.
Chang smiles and pats Wesley on the shoulder.
57 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
orbiting Relva 7.
58 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard is standing as Riker ENTERS.
RIKER
Sir?
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 51.
58 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Yes, Number One?
RIKER
Mister Remmick has left the ship.
PICARD
Yes. He found nothing wrong on
the Enterprise. You may inform
the crew that Admiral Quinn is
most impressed.
RIKER
Thank you. They'll be pleased...
Can you explain now what he was
after?
PICARD
They were after me, Number One.
They want me to take over as
Commandant of Starfleet Academy.
RIKER
Congratulations! What a wonderful
choice, sir! You'll be able to
shape the minds of the future
leaders of Starfleet.
He looks at Picard, realizes his ambivalence.
RIKER
(continuing)
You haven't decided what you're
going to do.
PICARD
Yes I have, Number One. I'm
going for a walk.
59 EXT. RELVA 7 (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING.
60 INT. RELVA 7 - CLASSROOM
Chang is at the front of the class as the four students
await his decision. Wesley, Oliana and Mordock are
nervous, T'Shanik impassive.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 52.
60 CONTINUED:
CHANG
I'm proud of all of you. You've
done a superb job. Each of you
would make a fine Starfleet
officer. It's unfair that only
one candidate from Relva will
attend the Academy this year --
and a loss to the Federation if
the rest of you do not return to
test again... Mister Mordock will
be the candidate. His results
were slightly higher than Mister
Crusher's. Congratulations, Mister
Mordock. You are the first
Benzite in Starfleet.
Wesley slumps in his seat. Mordock looks at all of
them, then turns to Chang.
MORDOCK
Thank you, sir, but it's not
right. It shouldn't be me.
Wesley lost points because he
helped me. He shouldn't be
punished for his generosity.
CHANG
He wasn't. He lost time, but
it wasn't only that...
Candidates, thank you and good
luck.
They all stand as Chang EXITS.
MORDOCK
I am sorry, Wesley.
WESLEY
It's okay. You deserved to win.
Besides, you would've done the
same thing for me.
They all look questioningly at Mordock, who hesitates.
Then he looks at his comrades:
MORDOCK
Yes. I believe I would.
T'Shanik APPROACHES Mordock.
T'SHANIK
Congratulations.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 53.
60 CONTINUED: (2)
She nods to the others and LEAVES the room as Oliana
and Wesley shake hands with Mordock.
OLIANA
Well, personally, I hate losing.
So you'd better be ready next
year, Wesley. I won't be easy
to beat.
Wesley smiles at the thought of seeing her again,
whatever the circumstances.
61 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING.
62
thru OMITTED
63
64 INT. CORRIDOR
Picard strides down the corridor when he runs into
Jake Kurland, who takes one look at him and would like
to be anywhere else on the Enterprise.
PICARD
Mister Kurland!
JAKE
Yes, sir.
Picard is uncomfortable around him.
PICARD
Are you... feeling better?
JAKE
Yes, sir... I'm sorry I damaged
the shuttle. But Mister Riker says
I can work on fixing it as part
of my "discipline" training.
PICARD
Good idea. I hope you learned
that running away doesn't solve
anything, young man.
JAKE
Yes, sir. I'm sorry I messed up.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 54.
64 CONTINUED:
PICARD
I know. But you did keep your
wits about you out there... don't
forget that.
JAKE
No, sir. And... thank you for
saving my life.
Now Picard would rather be anywhere else on the ship.
PICARD
You're welcome.
He turns and WALKS BACK the other way.
64A OMITTED
65 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Wesley stands there, alone and melancholy, staring at
the starfield outside the window. Picard ENTERS.
PICARD
Mister Crusher? Why aren't you in
your dress uniform for Admiral
Quinn's farewell dinner?
WESLEY
I... I didn't think it would be
appropriate.
PICARD
Why not?
WESLEY
I failed, Captain. I didn't get
into the Academy. I failed you...
and the Enterprise.
PICARD
Ridiculous. Did you do your best?
A beat. Wesley nods.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 55.
65 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(continuing)
When you test next year -- and
you will test again -- do you
think your performance will
improve?
WESLEY
Well, yes...
PICARD
Good. The only person you're
truly competing against is
yourself.
WESLEY
Then you're not disappointed?
PICARD
Your failures and successes have
to be measured within, Wesley.
Not by me or anyone else... But
if it helps you to know this, I
failed my first time. And you
may not tell anyone!
WESLEY
You? You failed?
PICARD
Yes. But not the second time.
Now, do me the honor of sitting
next to me at dinner. I'm going
to have to disappoint an old
friend.
Picard smiles at Wesley as they walk to the door.
65A INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Picard and Quinn stand next to the platform. The only
other person in the room is Tasha, at the controls.
QUINN
I wish I could convince you to
change your mind.
PICARD
I'll serve you better here.
Quinn gives up.
STAR TREK: "Coming Of Age" - 12/30/87 - ACT FIVE 56.
65A CONTINUED:
QUINN
This is where you belong.
PICARD
If you need me...
Quinn brushes aside Picard's concern.
QUINN
I've been playing politics too
long. Perhaps I see conspiracy
everywhere. Don't worry.
Quinn shakes Picard's hand and then steps onto the
platform.
QUINN
(continuing)
Safe travels, my friend.
Quinn nods to Tasha, who works the console. Picard
stares at Quinn for a long time, as if memorizing what
he looks like. The admiral is BEAMED DOWN.
65B INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard STEPS OFF the turbolift. He walks to where
Wesley sits at the Conn, and stands between Wesley and
Data.
PICARD
Set course to Algeron 4, Mister
Crusher.
WESLEY
Course plotted and laid in, sir.
PICARD
You know, we're really alike, you
and I. Both explorers to the
core... Engage, Mister Crusher.
Wesley smiles happily at Picard's praise.
66 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
moves off to its next destination, as WE:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END