STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Silicon Avatar"
#40275-204
Story by
Lawrence V. Conley
Teleplay by
Jeri Taylor
Directed by
Cliff Bole
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 1991 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 This script is not for publication or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.
FINAL DRAFT
JULY 31, 1991
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Silicon Avatar"
CAST
PICARD CARMEN DAVILA
RIKER DOCTOR KILA MARR
DATA ALIEN CAPTAIN (V.O.)
BEVERLY
TROI Non-Speaking
GEORDI MELONA COLONISTS
WORF AN OLDER MAN
A CHILD
Non-Speaking
SUPERNUMERARIES
N.D. SECURITY PERSONNEL
ENSIGN AT CONN
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Silicon Avatar"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM MELONA FOUR
OBSERVATION LOUNGE COLONY
ENGINEERING HILLS
TRANSPORTER ROOM CAVE FRONT
TURBOLIFT
DATA'S QUARTERS CRYSTALLINE ENTITY
MARR'S GUEST QUARTERS
MELONA CAVE
KALLISKO BRIDGE
(SEEN ON VIEWSCREEN ONLY)
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Silicon Avatar"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
Bitrius BIH-tree-us
Clendenning klen-DEN-ing
Davila dah-VEE-uh
Janina jah-NEE-nuh
Kallisko kal-ISS-ko
KEV kay-ee-vee (K.E.V.)
Kila KYE-lah
Melona mel-OWN-uh
Monocaladium mahn-oh-kal-AY-dee-um
Omicron Theta ohm-ih-kron THAY-tah
Parrises pah-REES-es
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Silicon Avatar"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. MELONA COLONY - DAY
A lush and verdant world of hills, grasses, and wild
flowers... no structures there yet, but flags and
taped-off areas suggest buildings to come. Our people
-- RIKER, DATA, BEVERLY -- mingle with civilian humans,
all involved in mapping, measuring, and surveying this
halcyon valley. A portable map table stands in the
clearing; Riker and CARMEN DAVILA, an engineer with a
keen mind and wry wit, inspect schematics of proposed
structures.
CARMEN
... and the hospital facility --
(pointing)
-- will stand there, facing north,
in that grove of trees.
She turns ninety degrees, gestures again.
CARMEN
The school and the arts center
will be here, centrally located
among the residential pods.
RIKER
(nodding)
Looks good. At this rate you
should be ready for the next wave
of colonists in about six months.
(eyeing the terrain)
I have to say I envy you... this
is a beautiful place to put down
roots.
CARMEN
Somehow, Commander... you don't
strike me as the kind that puts
down roots...
He gives her an easy grin.
RIKER
No? How do I strike you?
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - TEASER 2.
1 CONTINUED:
CARMEN
(playful)
As... a free spirit. An
adventurer.
RIKER
Ah. And aren't pioneers, like
you, adventurers at heart?
CARMEN
Of course. But we also have
this... nesting instinct. It's
exciting to find a new world --
but the joy comes in making it
a home. Building houses. Having
children. Roots.
RIKER
Very interesting. I'd love to
discuss this further with you.
Dinner tonight?
CARMEN
If you want to share camp rations
in my tent -- I'd be delighted.
The briefest hesitation.
RIKER
Haven't we managed to get a
replicator down here yet?
She laughs merrily... the banter between them is
easy-going and comfortable. It suggests a relationship
that's ongoing.
CARMEN
No, we haven't... but I've been
saving my ration of dried chicken
curry. It should go very nicely
with that bottle of wine I happen
to know you brought with you...
RIKER
It's sounding better all the
time...
CARMEN
And as you know... I provide the
most memorable desserts...
Riker grins. He's obviously had those desserts before.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - TEASER 3.
1 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
My favorite part of dinner...
BEVERLY (o.c.)
(calling)
Will... Carmen...
They turn and Beverly approaches with Data.
BEVERLY
We've been going over the
schematics for the hospital. The
location seems fine...
RIKER
When the Enterprise comes back
tomorrow, we'll bring a crew
down here and get started.
A low WHIRR catches their attention. They stop, look
around for the source of the sound, not yet concerned.
RIKER
Carmen... do you have some
construction started I don't know
about?
CARMEN
No... what is that?
They all look around as the sound becomes more
pronounced. They're puzzled... not really alarmed.
RIKER
Data?
DATA
I do not recognize the sound.
He turns around, trying to catch its direction. The
WHIRRR is louder now, and the breeze picks up a little.
DATA
I believe the sound is coming from
above...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" -REV. 8/6/91 - TEASER 4.
1 CONTINUED: (3)
All look upward. The brilliance of the sun-filled day
fades a bit... light dims as if a veil were being
pulled across the sky. The other colonists are milling
about, becoming apprehensive.
CARMEN
Will... what is it?
The breeze really kicks up now, and the noise is
building in intensity.
RIKER
Maybe an atmospheric
disturbance...
2 ANGLE ON THE SKY (OPTICAL)
from their POV. Across the darkened sky a white spot
of something is approaching -- at an incredible speed.
3 RIKER AND OTHERS
stare at the object... Riker's face suddenly shows an
awful recognition, a terrible disbelief.
RIKER
Data -- what's our best bet for
cover?
DATA
There are subterranean caverns
beneath the hills to the east.
(points)
Approximately one kilometer.
RIKER
Carmen, start rounding everybody
up.
CARMEN
But --
RIKER
We've seen it before -- we know
what it is. Now get moving!
She stares at him, then turns and starts running.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - TEASER 4A.
4 ON THE SKY (OPTICAL)
from Riker's POV the approaching object has taken
form... a huge crystal form descending toward the
planet... a vast shimmering, faceted shape... ominous
in its cold beauty. The Crystalline Entity advances
on the outpost.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT ONE 5.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.
5 EXT. MELONA COLONY - MINUTES LATER
The wind is whipping now, and the SOUND is immense. A
sense of urgency has overtaken the colonists, though
they're trying not to panic. Riker, Beverly, Data, and
Carmen are herding people together.
RIKER
Let's go!
(calling)
Beverly! This way!
6 ANOTHER ANGLE
on Beverly, herding people together.
BEVERLY
Okay, people... stay calm... let's
go...
They move in the direction indicated by Riker.
7 ON RIKER AND GROUP
as he waves the colonists to follow Data.
RIKER
Follow him! Follow him! Go!
Grateful to have direction, the colonists begin
swarming toward Data, running with him toward what they
hope is safety.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT ONE 6.
7 CONTINUED:
Riker hurries along the last of the wind-whipped
stragglers, including Carmen, who's helping A CHILD.
Riker runs to them and swoops the child up in his arms.
RIKER
Let's go!
They set out at a run.
8 IN THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The Crystalline Entity now hovers above the outpost, a
majestic and ominous form.
9 ANGLE ON TREE (OPTICAL)
A brilliant beam of light sweeps down from the Entity
like a giant scythe, cutting a huge swath. The light
encases everything in its path, suffuses it in the
white-hot light... and then sweeps on. The tree and
everything else in this arc of destruction is reduced
to a pile of dust.
10 ON THE COLONISTS
as they watch, horrified, still on the run. A few
panic and start to run off to the sides; Data and
Beverly take them by the arm and pull them back with
the group.
RIKER
This way! Stay together!
The colonists run in panic. Bursts of white light
illuminate them as the Entity devours more of the
countryside.
11
thru OMITTED
12
13 ANGLE ON RIKER
hurrying the people along, keeping an eye over his
shoulder at the progress of the Entity. Suddenly --
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT ONE 7.
13 CONTINUED:
CARMEN (o.c.)
Will... help us!
He turns to see Carmen heading for AN OLDER MAN who's
having trouble keeping up. He stumbles; Carmen runs
for him. Riker gives the child to Data and starts
toward her.
14 ANGLE ON CARMEN (OPTICAL)
as she heads for the man, fighting the buffeting winds.
Suddenly the arc of light comes sweeping toward her
and the old man... races over them... and they're both
gone. Piles of silt remain.
15 ON RIKER
RIKER
Carmen!
He watches her disappear, helpless. Then he
continues his pell mell race for the caves.
16 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship is at warp, heading toward Melona.
17 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD, WORF, TROI, ENSIGN at the conn, and
SUPERNUMERARIES.
WORF
Captain... sensors are indicating
a disturbance near the outpost
on Melona Four.
PICARD
What kind of disturbance?
WORF
I can't tell. We are still too
far away. It could be an
electrical storm...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT ONE 8.
17 CONTINUED:
Picard nods. Probably nothing... but he'd like to make
sure.
PICARD
See if you can make contact with
the colony...
WORF
Aye, sir.
PICARD
How far are we?
WORF
At current speed, twenty-seven
hours.
Picard nods, acknowledging.
WORF
Captain, I get no response from
Melona colony. But the
disturbance in the atmosphere is
increasing.
PICARD
Bridge to La Forge...
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
La Forge here, Captain.
PICARD
Are you picking up readings from
Melona?
18 INT. ENGINEERING - INTERCUTTING
GEORDI
Yes, sir. Something strange is
going on... there are violent
disruptions in the atmosphere...
PICARD
Ensign... increase to warp eight.
Picard stares at the viewscreen, his instincts telling
him that something is amiss on Melona.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 8/14/91 - ACT ONE 9.
19 INT. MELONA - CAVE FRONT - MINUTES LATER
Riker is herding the last of the colonists into the
caverns; behind him, the sound of the wind is fearful,
and bursts of white light frequently illuminate him.
RIKER
Inside... keep moving, deep into
the cave...
Finally the last of the colonists is inside and Riker
follows quickly.
20 INT. CAVE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Riker and Data at the entrance; Beverly and the others
in b.g. as she does a cursory medical inspection.
RIKER
How much protection will this cave
give us, Data?
DATA
The presence of refractory metals
in the rock formations may act
as an effective barrier.
There is a THUMP and a brilliant flash of light at the
entrance -- the Entity is homing in on them. Riker
draws his phaser.
RIKER
Let's seal this entrance.
He and Data fire at boulders above the cave opening;
they tumble down, blocking it. Beverly approaches.
BEVERLY
I hope there's enough air in here.
RIKER
There should be a ventilation
source somewhere...
They finish sealing off the entrance. It's now dark in
the cave. The fearful THUMPS continue, jarring the
walls like minor earthquakes.
RIKER
We need some light in here...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT ONE 10.
20 CONTINUED:
They train phasers against some of the rocks along the
cave walls, and they begin to GLOW, providing
illumination.
RIKER
How are the others?
BEVERLY
So far it looks like scrapes and
bruises. Will... where's Carmen?
RIKER
Carmen didn't make it.
She gives Riker a glance, but he is stoic.
RIKER
She went back for someone... a
man who'd fallen...
He breaks off; the rest is obvious.
BEVERLY
I'm sorry.
He turns and strides toward the huddled, fearful group
in the cave.
RIKER
I think we'll be safe in here.
I'm not sure about our air supply.
Stay put and don't move around,
don't expend unnecessary energy.
With any luck we can wait this
out.
There are several more THUMPS; a child begins crying.
Beverly continues her ministrations to the injured.
Riker turns and taps his badge.
RIKER
Riker to Enterprise... Riker to
Enterprise...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 8/14/91 - ACT ONE 11.
20 CONTINUED: (2)
He sits along a cave wall, and Data joins him.
DATA
Commander, the refractory metals
in the rock strata might also
interfere with communication.
The THUMPS recede in intensity, as though the Entity
were looking for another way in.
RIKER
Data... we've only seen the
Crystalline Entity once before...
how do you know these metals will
protect us?
DATA
I am not entirely certain they
will.
RIKER
That's what I was afraid you were
going to say...
And there is a huge THUMP which says the being is still
out and trying to get at them.
21 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at warp.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT ONE 12.
22 INT. BRIDGE
as before, Picard in his chair, taut as a coiled
spring.
WORF
Sir... the disturbance on Melona
is becoming more intense.
PICARD
Continue hailing the colony.
All channels.
TROI
Captain... the fact that they're
not responding doesn't necessarily
mean there's anything wrong. The
atmospheric disturbance could be
jamming the signal.
PICARD
I know, Counselor.
But Troi has known the captain long enough to respect
his instincts -- and those clearly tell him something
is wrong.
WORF
Still no response, sir.
PICARD
Ensign, increase to warp nine.
(to Worf)
How long, Mister Worf?
WORF
Six hours.
23 INT. MELONA CAVE - LATER
Some hours have passed. Everyone (except Data) is
having trouble breathing now. They're warm,
sweat-stained, clothing in disarray. The thumps are
not heard now. Beverly moves toward Riker.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT ONE 13.
23 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Commander... I have one man
unconscious. We can't stay in
here much longer...
RIKER
If I open that entrance and it's
still out there, we're dead.
BEVERLY
If we stay here we'll be dead...
DATA
It has been over an hour since
we heard the Entity. It may be
gone.
RIKER
And it may be out there waiting
for us.
Suddenly there is a noise at the entrance -- a kind of
a thumping, prolonged, and then a point of sunlight
breaks through the rock and earth sealing the cave.
Riker gets to his feet, moves toward it.
RIKER
Everybody stay back.
Phaser raised, he stands, ready to make a stand,
however futile, against the Entity. There is more
thumping... the hole widens... something moves to cover
it... Riker tenses... prepares to shoot... then...
24 WORF'S FACE
appears in the cave opening.
WORF
Commander?
25 ANGLE - RIKER
as he breaks into a relieved grin.
RIKER
Lieutenant Worf... I don't think
I've ever seen a more beautiful
sight.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT ONE 14.
25 CONTINUED:
The hole widens quickly as Riker and Data help from
within; the happy colonists rise and move forward.
Worf is first through the opening, followed by Geordi
and ND SECURITY PERSONNEL.
Geordi looks around at the disheveled party.
GEORDI
Good to see you're all right,
Commander. What's happened here?
RIKER
The Crystalline Entity paid us
a visit. We lost two colonists
but got the rest in here...
Geordi looks toward the opening and Riker moves to it,
peers out.
26 MELONA - RIKER'S POV (MATTE)
is dead. There's nothing but dust and a few gnarled
skeletal remains of what had been trees, bushes, and
vines.
27 RIKER AND GEORDI
as Riker withdraws from the opening, stunned by what
he's seen.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT TWO 15.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
28 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around Melona Four.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45122.3.
We have notified Starfleet Command
of our intention to pursue and
investigate the Crystalline
Entity. To that end, we have been
joined...
29 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Riker and a TRANSPORTER CHIEF wait, facing the
platform.
PICARD (V.O.)
... by Doctor Kila Marr, a
xenologist who has made studying
the Entity her life's work.
DOCTOR KILA MARR, a handsome, middle-aged female human,
MATERIALIZES. Riker steps forward.
RIKER
Welcome to the Enterprise. I am
Commander William Riker.
She looks at him curiously as she steps off the pad.
She is a pleasantly soft-spoken woman, friendly and
gracious though a bit reserved.
DOCTOR MARR
Commander... Kila Marr.
RIKER
We're glad you're here.
DOCTOR MARR
You were on the surface... during
the attack.
RIKER
That's right.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT TWO 16.
29 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
Remarkable. You and your group
are the only beings ever known
to survive an assault by the
Crystalline Entity.
RIKER
We were lucky.
DOCTOR MARR
I should say.
(beat)
And... your android. He was
there, too?
Riker reacts to the dismissive term "your android,"
but stays diplomatically cool.
RIKER
Lieutenant Commander Data was
there, yes.
She eyes him briefly, as though to pursue, but then
smiles.
DOCTOR MARR
Well. Shall we get started?
RIKER
I'd be happy to show you to your
quarters --
DOCTOR MARR
Commander, the chance to talk to
survivors... this soon after an
attack... I've been waiting years
for this. I don't want to waste
a moment more.
Riker inclines his head, gestures her through the
doors.
30 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Beverly, and Troi are at the
table; Doctor Marr paces.
BEVERLY
... and when we came out of the
cave... there was nothing left.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT TWO 16A.
30 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY (cont'd)
Everywhere we looked... there was
just complete devastation... trees
gone... nothing...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT TWO 17.
30 CONTINUED: (2)
DOCTOR MARR
That's typical. It could take
years for anything to grow again.
DATA
Doctor, I ran a full
spectrographic analysis, section
by section. Trace elements
confirm that it was the same
entity which destroyed the colony
on Omicron Theta.
Doctor Marr pays absolutely no attention to Data,
continuing as though he hasn't spoken. Troi notices
this.
DOCTOR MARR
The Crystalline Entity seems to
function like a giant
electromagnetic collector. It
needs a lot of power to keep
going... so it strips every form
of life from the worlds it
encounters and converts it all
into energy.
RIKER
There was no vegetation left...
no insects. Not even soil
bacteria. It left nothing.
DOCTOR MARR
Except witnesses. For the first
time in eleven recorded attacks.
She looks around the table.
DOCTOR MARR
Why, I wonder... did it spare your
group?
RIKER
It didn't spare everyone, Doctor.
There is a vehemence in his voice which Picard notices.
RIKER
If you'll check your reports,
you'll find that two of the
colonists didn't survive.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT TWO 18.
30 CONTINUED: (2)
DOCTOR MARR
My point is that until now there
have never been any survivors.
DATA
Doctor, the cave in which we hid
was carved from rock which
possessed heavy concentrations
of kelbonite and fistrium. We
surmise that the Entity could not
penetrate that barrier.
Again, Doctor Marr takes no notice of Data. Troi takes
note; Data is merely puzzled.
DOCTOR MARR
I'd like to do interviews with
each of the survivors. Collect
as much specific detail as I can
of their observations.
PICARD
Of course.
DOCTOR MARR
And I want to inspect the remains
of Melona Colony as soon as
possible.
PICARD
Commander Data, you will accompany
the Doctor to the surface.
DATA
Yes, sir. We can leave --
DOCTOR MARR
(interrupting)
If you don't mind, Captain, I'd
prefer to choose my own team.
Picard eyes her. He, too, has seen the pointed
dismissal of Data by the doctor, and he needs to assert
control of the situation.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT TWO 19.
30 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
There is no one on this ship who
is more knowledgeable of the
Crystalline Entity than Commander
Data. His birthplace was Omicron
Theta.
DOCTOR MARR
I am aware of his origins. I am
very much aware that his
"brother," Lore, worked with the
Crystalline Entity, and led it
to Omicron Theta -- where it
killed every living thing.
(beat)
I don't think it's unreasonable
that I would prefer to make
another choice.
The woman's implication about Data is startling to the
group, and the atmosphere becomes a little charged.
PICARD
If there are others you wish to
have on your team, you are, of
course, welcome to request their
additional presence.
(beat)
But as captain, I think it is in
the best interest of this
investigation for you and
Commander Data to work together.
He stands, signaling that the meeting is over. A flush
comes to Doctor Marr's cheeks, but she is coolly
professional.
DOCTOR MARR
As you wish, Captain.
She collects her things, gives a curt nod to Data, and
they and the others -- except Troi -- EXIT the room.
Picard moves to Troi.
PICARD
Well?
TROI
I don't think you need an empath
to sense that woman's feelings.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT TWO 20.
30 CONTINUED: (4)
TROI (cont'd)
There's hostility... that she
seems to have transferred from
Lore... to Data...
Picard's look shows his concern about this.
TROI
Perhaps you shouldn't have forced
her together with Data so soon.
PICARD
If her discomfort is going to
cloud her judgement... or preclude
her doing her objective best...
I want to find it out now.
He nods toward Troi and EXITS, leaving her ruminating
about the woman's strong reaction toward Data.
31 EXT. MELONA COLONY - INSIDE CAVE - DAY
Doctor Marr and SEVERAL TECHNICIANS roam the area with
tricorders. Some of them collect samples of dust, etc.
in (24th-century) glassine bags. Data ENTERS, carrying
a tricorder. In spite of Doctor Marr's sublime
indifference, he is gamely hanging in there, trying
to do his job.
DATA
Doctor, there is evidence of
residual bitrious matter in the
soil. It was not present before
the Entity's attack.
Doctor Marr ignores him, keeps on doing what she's
doing. Data regards her for a moment, then plunges in.
DATA
Doctor Marr... you have made it
quite clear that you are disturbed
by my presence. However, I do
not believe that we can accomplish
the task we have been assigned
if you continue to ignore me.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT TWO 21.
31 CONTINUED:
Still involved in her work, she does not immediately
answer. Finally she takes a breath, turns and faces
Data and -- for the first time -- addresses him
directly.
DOCTOR MARR
Commander... I hear everything
you say to me. If there is
anything worth my response, you
can be sure I will not be silent.
Marr's attitude is purely a puzzlement to Data. In his
inability to feel the hostility, he innocently keeps
going.
DATA
Then I do not understand your lack
of interest in the bitrious
filaments I mentioned.
DOCTOR MARR
It's old news to me. I found
evidence of bitrium in three
separate attack sites. It seems
to be a residual element the
Entity produces after it absorbs
living matter.
She turns away, looking in toward the cave depths.
DOCTOR MARR
I'm actually more interested in
this cave.
(beat)
I'm still amazed that your group
was spared.
DATA
As I have speculated, the presence
of refractory --
DOCTOR MARR
(interrupting)
-- refractory metals. Yes, I
know.
And she strides deeper into the cave. Data follows.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT TWO 22.
32 INT. CAVE - ANOTHER ANGLE
Doctor Marr runs a tricorder around the walls of the
cave.
DOCTOR MARR
On two other occasions settlers
sought refuge in caves. Some of
them deeper underground than this
one. They perished anyway.
DATA
(studying his own
tricorder)
Were those caves laced with
kelbonite or fistrium?
DOCTOR MARR
The tunnels on Forlat Three had
strong deposits of kelbonite, yes.
DATA
Then perhaps it is the combination
of the two metals which prevented
the Entity --
She whirls on him, feelings pouring over.
DOCTOR MARR
Or maybe it was you.
DATA
(puzzled)
I do not understand.
She walks toward him slowly.
DOCTOR MARR
Maybe it was your presence which
made the Crystalline Entity pass
over the people in this cave.
Did that occur to you?
DATA
I cannot imagine what effect my
being here would have had --
DOCTOR MARR
If you had been in contact with
the Entity... if that's why Melona
was attacked... it surely wouldn't
have killed its -- ally.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT TWO 23.
32 CONTINUED:
DATA
You are suggesting I lured it
here?
DOCTOR MARR
Did you?
DATA
No, Doctor.
She eyes him accusingly. Data, puzzled, tries to
figure it out.
DATA
Ah. Because Lore betrayed the
colonists on Omicron Theta, you
assume that I am capable of the
same behavior. But you are
mistaken, Doctor. My programming
is distinctly different from
Lore's.
DOCTOR MARR
Don't you understand? I'm
accusing you of collaborating with
that monster...
DATA
I do understand. I am attempting
to explain to you that it is
impossible.
She stares at him, bewildered and a bit frustrated by
his coolly rational response.
DOCTOR MARR
Amazing. You can't feel anything,
can you? Nothing I say to you
hurts you...
DATA
That is true.
She stares at him for a moment, then turns and begins
playing the tricorder over the cave walls once again.
DOCTOR MARR
I'm getting a slight elevation
of monocaladium particulates in
this cave wall... are you making
note of that?
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT TWO 24.
32 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
Yes, Doctor.
A beat, as she studies the tricorder.
DOCTOR MARR
My son died on Omicron Theta.
She makes this statement in the same tone with which
she described the particulate reading.
DOCTOR MARR
He was sixteen when the colony
was attacked.
(beat)
That's the reason I became an
expert on the Crystalline Entity.
She continues to read the cave wall, as though it were
of much more fascination to her than what she is
saying.
DOCTOR MARR
I've spent my life, studying it,
tracking it... hoping someday to
find it...
She turns to him and looks him straight in the eye.
DOCTOR MARR
And if I learn that you are
helping that thing in any way
whatsoever... I'll see to it
that you are disassembled --
piece by piece.
Data stares at her, fascinated and confused by this
complicated woman.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 25.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
33 INT. ENGINEERING - A DAY LATER
Doctor Marr, Geordi, and Data processing information.
GEORDI
Okay... we've input all the data
you collected on the surface...
She moves to his station, carrying a PADD.
DOCTOR MARR
Just a minute, Commander... I have
some cellulose readings from soil
samples that weren't included...
Reading the PADD, she expertly keys Geordi's controls.
He watches admiringly.
GEORDI
You handle that unit like a
veteran, Doctor.
DOCTOR MARR
(with a smile)
One thing about spending your life
gathering information... you learn
your way around computers.
She finishes inputting and studies the monitor. It
begins to scroll figures and text.
DOCTOR MARR
Hydrocarbons slightly elevated...
bitrious filaments in trace
amounts...
As she reads, she becomes gradually deflated.
DOCTOR MARR
Lanthanides... nitrates... all
normal.
Finally she looks up to the two, disappointment in her
face.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT THREE 26.
33 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
Nothing different. Everything
falls within the parameters I've
established at the other attack
sites.
She sinks back, discouraged.
DATA
Did you expect different results
this time, Doctor?
She does not look at him. She still seems to be
keeping him at a distance.
DOCTOR MARR
I've never surveyed a site so soon
after the attack. I thought maybe
I'd find something new. Something
that would make a difference...
DATA
Doctor... have you ever scanned
your samples for gamma radiation?
DOCTOR MARR
(a hint of
condescension)
Why would I do that?
DATA
We are seeing high-energy
reactions that may show up in a
gamma scan...
Geordi gets it immediately and begins tapping
instructions on his computer.
GEORDI
... and if they do... we might find
a pattern -- a kind of marker the
Entity left behind. Good idea,
Data.
A beat as Doctor Marr considers. She is reluctant to
leap quickly at a suggestion from Data, and her voice
is tinged with skepticism as she speaks.
DOCTOR MARR
Frankly, I just don't see what
this will get us.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 27.
33 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
If the Entity left a residual
trace of antiprotons in the
samples we collected, the gamma
radiation scan would reveal that.
GEORDI
Data, I'm getting the readout now.
Data moves to looks at Geordi's monitor, but Marr keeps
her distance, trying to keep her professional reserve
in spite of the conflicting emotions inside her. Maybe
Data is on to something... but she doesn't want to show
her eagerness. And of course, there's a bit of chagrin
that she had never thought of this.
DATA
If we try a logarithmic scale,
it will give us better resolution.
Geordi taps instructions. Marr is dying to go look,
but won't let herself.
GEORDI
There, Data... see it?
DATA
Yes.
He looks up at Doctor Marr.
DATA
Would you care to see what the
scan has produced, Doctor?
A brief hesitation... for appearances. Then she moves
to the monitor, looks over Geordi's shoulder. For the
first time since we've met her, there is a hint of
excitement under her cool exterior.
DOCTOR MARR
A sharp spike at ten KEV. And
another...
(looking up at them)
A pattern...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 28.
33 CONTINUED: (3)
GEORDI
So we know the Entity leaves
antiprotons behind...
DOCTOR MARR
If it also deposits antiprotons
in space, as it travels... could
we detect them?
GEORDI
Sure. The ship's lateral sensors
can be set for gamma radiation.
Doctor Marr straightens, looks at them.
DOCTOR MARR
Well. Let's get to it, shall we?
She turns and walks briskly out of the room. After a
brief beat, Data follows.
33A INT. CORRIDOR
as Marr and Data walk toward a turbolift.
DOCTOR MARR
It seems I owe you thanks,
Commander.
DATA
The thanks actually go to Doctor
Clendenning on Omicron Theta who
did the first experiments with
gamma scans.
DOCTOR MARR
(puzzled)
I've never read that... it wasn't
in any of his records...
DATA
That is correct. But I possess
much of his knowledge. He was
working with new detectors before
the attack on Omicron Theta.
They have reached the turbolift, and as they enter it,
she glances at him, a skeptical smile on her lips.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT THREE 29.
33B INT. TURBOLIFT
DOCTOR MARR
I'd heard that you had been
programmed with the experiences
of the colonists... but frankly
it's a little hard to believe.
(to Computer)
Bridge.
DATA
It is true, Doctor. The contents
of their journals and logs were
transferred into my memory cells.
The man who created me also
experimented with scanning the
synaptic patterns of the
colonists' temporal lobes and
programming them into my neural
nets.
DOCTOR MARR
(still skeptical)
You possess -- their thoughts?
DATA
To some degree. Doctor Soong
hoped to provide me with an
amalgam of the colonists'
memories.
Marr cocks her head, regards him as though studying
a scientific oddity.
DOCTOR MARR
Interesting.
Then she turns forward once more and proceeds to ignore
him.
33C CLOSE ON BRIDGE MONITOR - LATER
As it shows an OKUDAGRAM of graphs and figures.
DOCTOR MARR (V.O.)
There... a spike at ten KEV...
and again...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 30.
34 INT. BRIDGE
Riker, Troi, and Worf at their posts; Picard is with
Data and Doctor Marr at an aft science station;
supernumeraries as needed.
DOCTOR MARR
(to Picard)
That's the same pattern we saw
in engineering.
PICARD
Can you project a course from it?
DATA
Yes, sir.
(at controls)
There are two possible
destinations. The Brechtian
Cluster and the Argos system.
PICARD
Is either populated?
DATA
The Brechtian Cluster has two
inhabited planets.
PICARD
Ensign, set a course.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 31.
34 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
Captain, I've done some
preliminary estimates of the
firing pattern we'll need in order
to destroy the Entity. The photon
torpedoes will require some
reprogramming.
She moves toward tactical with a PADD.
DOCTOR MARR
With your permission, I'll give
the calculations to Lieutenant
Worf.
Picard nods.
PICARD
Reprogram the torpedoes, Mister
Worf.
(to Marr)
Let's just hope we don't have to
use them.
She gives the PADD to Worf, turns back. She is clearly
caught off-guard.
DOCTOR MARR
I beg your pardon?
She has obviously had a strong reaction, but Picard is
not certain what button he has pushed. He tries to
explain.
PICARD
If it's possible to avoid firing
on it, I would hope that --
DOCTOR MARR
You aren't going to kill it?
Picard looks around; given Marr's vehement reaction,
this suddenly seems like a very public place.
PICARD
Perhaps you should join me in my
ready room.
She eyes him, then nods curtly and precedes him down
the ramp to the room. Camera FINDS Riker, who has
watched this interchange with troubled eyes.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 32.
35 INT. READY ROOM
Though surprised at Picard's position, Doctor Marr
nonetheless retains the mien of a scientist pursuing
the solution to a problem.
DOCTOR MARR
I don't understand. Why are we
pursuing the Entity, if not to
destroy it?
PICARD
We are not hunters, Doctor. Nor
is it our role to exact revenge.
Marr regards him with a cool amusement.
DOCTOR MARR
What do you propose? We track
it down... greet it warmly... and
ask if it would mind terribly not
ravaging any more planets?
PICARD
I'm not denying that it might
become necessary to fire on it.
But that would be a last resort.
DOCTOR MARR
Why? Why not just kill it?
PICARD
I'm going to try to talk to it.
She stares at him as though he had spoken in tongues.
DOCTOR MARR
What?
PICARD
We know through our own experience
that our shields will protect us
from the Entity. As long as we
are in no danger, I will make
every effort to communicate.
DOCTOR MARR
To what end?
PICARD
If we can determine what its needs
are, we might find other sources
to supply it...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 33.
35 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
Its needs are to slaughter people
by the thousands... it's nothing
but a giant killing machine.
PICARD
The sperm whale on Earth devours
millions of cuttlefish as it
prowls the ocean. It is not
evil... it is simply feeding.
The same may well be true of the
Crystalline Entity.
DOCTOR MARR
That would be small comfort to
those who have died to feed it.
We're not talking about
cuttlefish... we're talking
about people.
PICARD
There are those, Doctor, who would
argue that the Crystalline Entity
has as much right to be here as
we do.
She regards him for a moment, as though deciding
whether to pursue the argument.
PICARD
Mister Data has some theories
about how to communicate with the
Entity. Please confer with him.
Doctor Marr holds his look, regarding him coolly for a
long moment -- as though she might say something else.
Finally, she nods and EXITS. Picard stares after her.
There is something unsettling about her unflappably
icy reserve.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 34.
36 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS - LATER
Data is practicing a new instrument -- classical
guitar. He cradles it correctly, reading from sheet
music. The door CHIMES.
DATA
Come in.
He places the guitar in its stand as the door opens and
Doctor Marr ENTERS.
DOCTOR MARR
Am I disturbing you?
DATA
Not at all, Doctor.
She enters, goes right to the point.
DOCTOR MARR
Commander... there's something
I want to say.
He looks at her curiously. She continues, the words
coming out in her usual rational way.
DOCTOR MARR
You have been helpful to me, and
kind. I repaid you with
accusations -- and I realize I
may have been wrong.
DATA
It is gracious of you to say,
Doctor. But I have not been
injured by you.
She regards him for a beat, then nods and sits.
DOCTOR MARR
Captain Picard has told me that
you have done work in trying to
establish communication with the
Entity.
DATA
That is true. I have experimented
with producing vibrations in
crystal by means of graviton
pulses.
She gives a bit of a smile.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT THREE 35.
36 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
Like tapping a crystal goblet?
DATA
Exactly.
He goes to his computer.
DATA
I will call up the results I have
achieved so far and you can study
them.
DOCTOR MARR
All right.
Data sits, begins keying the controls. Doctor Marr
paces for a bit; clearly there's more on her mind than
design models. She looks at him... sees him looking at
her... she seems to make a decision, tries to appear as
reserved as ever.
DOCTOR MARR
Commander... just what kind of
memories do you retain... of the
colonists?
DATA
I do not possess the
minute-to-minute remembrances of
each person there... although
many of their more intense
recollections are contained in
my memory banks.
She is looking at him intently, proceeding cautiously,
almost afraid of what she will hear as she asks these
questions.
DOCTOR MARR
Do you... have any of my son's
memories?
DATA
(accessing)
Marr... Raymond... called Renny.
Yes. I do.
A beat.
DOCTOR MARR
I see. And his journals?
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT THREE 36.
36 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
Yes.
Marr hesitates, trying to pick her way carefully. She
is trying to keep all of this sounding casual.
DOCTOR MARR
I was wondering... do you know...
(groping)
... did he -- blame me?
DATA
Blame you?
DOCTOR MARR
For going away. For leaving him
on Omicron Theta.
DATA
I am not aware of any blame
against you.
DOCTOR MARR
I left him with friends... I chose
to pursue my career... I planned
to go back, but things kept
interfering... I kept thinking,
"I'll go next month... "
(beat)
And then... there weren't any more
"next months."
DATA
I am unaware of any negative
thoughts he had about you.
(beat, as though
accessing)
His personal journals indicated
he was proud... that you were such
a fine scientist.
She draws a breath, almost thrown by this unexpected
revelation.
DOCTOR MARR
He was... ?
(beat)
What else... do you know... ?
It is the beginning of a small breakthrough into
Doctor Marr's carefully constructed defenses.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT THREE 37.
36 CONTINUED: (3)
But they are interrupted by a sudden announcement:
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Commander Data, Doctor Marr,
report to the bridge immediately.
They give each other a quick look of surprise and then
EXIT.
37 INT. BRIDGE - MINUTES LATER
The turbolift opens to discharge Data and Doctor Marr.
Picard, Riker, Worf, and others as needed are on the
bridge.
PICARD
A distress call... from a ship
called the Kallisko... it's being
pursued by an unknown object.
CAPTAIN'S COM VOICE
... sensors indicate a crystalline
structure of indeterminate mass...
During the next, the exchange between Picard and the
hapless CAPTAIN is played on the faces of the bridge
crew, listening to what they know will be disaster.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT THREE 38.
37 CONTINUED:
PICARD
How strong are your shields,
Captain?
CAPTAIN'S COM VOICE
We are a transport ship -- our
shields are minimal...
PICARD
Do you carry weapons?
CAPTAIN'S COM VOICE
Only low-level particle phasers...
Do you know what this being is?
Picard knows the ship is doomed. Will it help to say
that?
PICARD
Kallisko, change course, take
evasive action. Do whatever you
can to outrun it.
The familiar WHIRR is now heard, growing in intensity
and eventually obliterating the voice of the Captain.
CAPTAIN'S COM VOICE
... we are under attack.
A dreadful scream is heard.
CAPTAIN'S COM VOICE
... notify our people on Boreal
Three --
Another terrible scream and then silence.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT THREE 39.
37 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
Mister Worf... can you
reestablish?
WORF
No, Captain. There is no
response.
38
thru OMITTED
40
41 CLOSE ON DOCTOR MARR
who is utterly still. She has not spoken during the
awful interchange. But in her eyes there is a haunted
look. Over the next, camera does a SLOW ZOOM into her
face.
DATA (o.c.)
The Crystalline Entity is moving
away.
PICARD (o.c.)
Set a course for the Kallisko.
Mister Riker, prepare an away
team... I want you to check for
survivors.
Doctor Marr is no longer here. She is revisiting
fearful memories.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FOUR 40.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
42 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND KALLISKO (OPTICAL)
43 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE
Riker, Crusher, Data, Worf, and Doctor Marr emerge from
the turbolift and make their report to Picard. (Geordi
is at the aft science station.) Only Doctor Marr is
silent, standing still and quiet to the side.
RIKER
It was pretty much what we
expected, Captain. No
survivors...
BEVERLY
Not a trace of anything that was
ever alive. Not even the seeds
in their greenery storage.
DATA
Warp and impulse engines are down
but they can be restarted. A
skeleton crew could take the ship
to a starbase.
PICARD
We don't want to take the time
now. Send a message to the
nearest starbase to dispatch a
crew.
DATA
Aye, sir.
PICARD
Mister La Forge, make certain we
are still picking up the gamma
radiation pattern of the Entity.
GEORDI
Yes, sir.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT FOUR 41.
43 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(to Doctor Marr)
Have you and Commander Data made
any progress in finding a means
of communication?
DOCTOR MARR
I believe so. There are some
details to iron out --
PICARD
Then please keep working. We
may need it soon.
She nods, turns and heads toward the turbolift,
followed by Data.
44 INT. TURBOLIFT
with Data and Doctor Marr.
DATA
Deck seventeen.
The turbolift starts up and Doctor Marr leans back
against the side wall.
DATA
Doctor... you have seemed
preoccupied... since we surveyed
the Kallisko.
Her eyes flicker toward him. She is fragile, emotions
threatening to come forth. She fights them.
DOCTOR MARR
I've found you very easy to talk
to, Commander.
(beat)
Do you mind if I tell you
something... ?
DATA
Not at all.
Data's cool impersonality is comforting to her. It's
like talking to a mannequin... or a therapist... he's
nonjudgmental.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FOUR 42.
44 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
Hearing the screams of those
men... made it hard not to think
about my son... about what
happened to him.
She draws a breath. It's hard for her to reveal
herself like this. She struggles to maintain a
precarious control.
DOCTOR MARR
I've read stories... about
soldiers on the battlefield...
wounded and dying... who call for
their mothers.
(beat)
And I've always wondered...
(beat, getting things
under control)
... if my son called for me...
She stops, knowing if she says anything for a moment,
she will lose it. Data waits calmly. She tries again.
DOCTOR MARR
... if he died wondering why I
didn't come to him...
The turbolift door opens. As though it is a signal to
put up her defenses once more, Doctor Marr takes a
breath, straightens herself, and walks out of the
turbolift. Data follows.
45 OMITTED
45A INT. READY ROOM
Picard is at his desk; the door CHIMES.
PICARD
Come.
Riker ENTERS.
RIKER
It's still headed toward the
Brechtian Cluster. We've
reestablished our course.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FOUR 43.
45A CONTINUED:
PICARD
Very well.
Riker turns to leave, but --
PICARD
One more thing...
Riker turns back.
PICARD
Starfleet will notify Carmen
Davila's family of her death and
return her personal effects.
Would you care to include a
letter?
Riker hesitates... the reminder has stirred feelings
he's tried to bury.
RIKER
Yes, sir. I'd like that.
There is a silence and Riker makes no move to depart.
Picard looks up, curious.
PICARD
Something more, Number One?
RIKER
Permission to speak freely, sir?
PICARD
Of course.
RIKER
I've been thinking... maybe Doctor
Marr is right. Maybe we should
destroy the Entity.
PICARD
And why do you think that?
RIKER
It's killed thousands. It will
undoubtedly keep on killing...
unless we stop it. I don't want
those deaths on my conscience.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FOUR 44.
45A CONTINUED: (2)
Picard regards him... suspecting there's more to it
than that.
PICARD
Are you sure that's it? Or are
you being influenced by personal
feelings?
Riker takes refuge in a certain indignation.
RIKER
With all due respect, sir... I'm
not a raw cadet. I've lost people
on missions before.
(beat)
Carmen was a good friend. But
that's not why I'm saying this.
He moves toward Picard, emphatic.
RIKER
If we take the time to try to
communicate with this thing, we
may lose our chance to destroy
it. And I don't think we can risk
that.
Picard doesn't answer. Riker holds his eye.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FOUR 45.
45A CONTINUED: (3)
RIKER
I'm going to write that letter
to Carmen's family.
He EXITS, leaving Picard to ponder his words.
46 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS - LATER
Data and Doctor Marr.
DATA
We should program the bridge
science station to vary the
emissions we direct toward the
Entity.
Marr takes a seat at Data's computer, begins tapping
instructions.
DOCTOR MARR
I'll write a subroutine that will
allow us to change the frequency
of the graviton beam.
She types expertly, entering commands. As she does...
almost as an afterthought...
DOCTOR MARR
Data... you told me you carried
some of my son's memories...
DATA
That is true.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FOUR 46.
46 CONTINUED:
Doctor Marr continues typing as though it held the main
focus of her concentration. When she speaks, it is
with studied casualness.
DOCTOR MARR
What can you tell me about Renny?
What were those thoughts? Was
he -- was he happy at all, on
Omicron Theta?
There is a brief hesitation as Data accesses those
memories.
DATA
I possess some vivid memories of
sporting events... he played
Parrises Squares with a group of
his schoolmates...
She smiles, but continues with the computer, focusing
on it... as though her discussion of her son is nothing
more than small talk to fill the time.
DOCTOR MARR
Renny started Parrises Squares
when he was young... too young,
really... but the older children
kept asking him to join in and
I couldn't keep him away. He just
had this natural gift...
DATA
He was pleased to have won a
championship emblem.
DOCTOR MARR
I remember... he wrote me about
that... he was so proud...
She glances up at Data.
DOCTOR MARR
I'm characterizing pulse width
in nanoseconds... sound right to
you?
DATA
Yes, Doctor.
She returns to her task.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FOUR 47.
46 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
Your son's most intense thoughts
seemed to revolve around a young
woman named Janina...
Doctor Marr smiles at this.
DOCTOR MARR
A girlfriend? I never knew about
that... of course, that would be
the last thing he'd tell his
mother... What was she like?
DATA
He enjoyed her... gentleness...
her kindness... her...
(struggles to find
neutral words)
... her -- physical attributes...
Doctor Marr almost laughs... she is genuinely delighted
to be hearing these details about her son.
She finishes inputting, sits back.
DOCTOR MARR
There. Now we'll be able to vary
all the parameters directly from
the bridge.
She looks briefly at Data... makes a decision... rises
and goes to him.
DOCTOR MARR
Could you... do something for me?
It would mean a lot...
DATA
I would be happy to be of help.
DOCTOR MARR
You see... all I have left of
Renny, my only connection to
him... is there, inside you.
(beat)
And I was wondering... if you
could talk to me in his voice.
Data looks puzzled by this.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/2/91 - ACT FOUR 48.
46 CONTINUED: (3)
DOCTOR MARR
I know you have the ability to
sound like other people. Isn't
that right?
DATA
Yes, that is correct. But what
would you want me to say?
DOCTOR MARR
Maybe... something from his
journals...
Data considers this for a moment, while accessing his
memory files.
DATA
Many of his journal entries took
the form of letters to his
friends and family. I could
access one of those.
She nods and turns away from him, hands clenched,
awaiting this moment with almost unbearable
anticipation. When Data speaks, it is in the voice
of an adolescent boy.
DATA
(as Renny)
I took my last exam today... I
think I did all right on
everything except cellular
biology. I know you think it's
important, Mom... but I don't see
how I'm ever gonna use this stuff.
Doctor Marr's hands are clapsed together tightly as
she listens.
DATA
(as Renny)
In a couple of weeks, a bunch of
us are going on an archaeological
dig in the mountains. The Wallaces
said it would be okay with them
as long as we have adult
supervision... so don't worry
-- they're watching out for me.
They're really great people...
I like them a lot.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/7/91 - ACT FOUR 49.
46 CONTINUED: (4)
DATA (Cont'd)
(beat)
But they're kind of serious...
They don't have your sense of
humor, Mom.
(beat)
I miss you.
Doctor Marr doesn't speak. As she listens to these
words, silent tears are coursing a path down her
cheeks.
47 OMITTED
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT FIVE 50.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
48 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at warp.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, stardate 45125.7.
We are still in pursuit of the
Crystalline Entity. Data and
Doctor Marr are prepared to
attempt communication with the
being when we intercept it. I
will admit to some uncertainty
about the prospect... it could
prove to be a scientific
triumph... or a catastrophe.
49 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Troi, Worf; Data and Doctor Marr at an
aft science station; Geordi at the other;
supernumeraries.
WORF
Sir, the Brechtian Cluster is now
five light years away.
RIKER
Are we still picking up the
Entity's pattern?
DATA
Yes, Commander. But sensors do
not yet have a lock on its exact
whereabouts.
DOCTOR MARR
Captain, we are reasonably certain
it's between here and the
Brechtian Cluster. If I start
emitting the graviton beam now,
it may act as a lure... a kind
of beacon.
PICARD
Make it so.
Marr and Data begin keying controls.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FIVE 51.
49 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
We'll start with a pulse width
of five nanoseconds, frequency
one pulse per second.
DATA
Commencing graviton emission
now...
There is a brief silence, as all on the bridge wait
tensely for results.
GEORDI
No change in the sensor readings.
DOCTOR MARR
Let's ramp the frequency.
DATA
Emissions now at ten pulses per
second.
Again, the charged silence. Then, Worf reacts to
something on his controls.
WORF
Sir...
DOCTOR MARR
What is it? Do you have
something?
WORF
A large mass... approaching at
warp speed...
PICARD
Full stop. Doctor Marr, continue
emitting your signal. On screen,
Mister Worf.
50 ANGLE - VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Nothing yet but the starfield. The crew on the bridge
stare at it, rapt, waiting for the first indication
that they have again encountered the mysterious
Crystalline being. A beat. Still nothing... and then,
a tiny white spot... approaching rapidly...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FIVE 52.
51 ON DOCTOR MARR
looking at the screen. This is what she has been
waiting to see for so many long, agonizing years.
52 ANGLE - VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
RIKER
Shields up.
The Crystalline Entity is approaching... looming larger
and larger... Doctor Marr is staring, transfixed...
DOCTOR MARR
It's beautiful...
DATA
Doctor... shall we change the
frequency?
She looks at him, as though coming out of a trance.
DOCTOR MARR
Yes... yes, Commander. Proceed.
DATA
Changing to twenty pulses per
second...
And as he makes the changes... the Entity glides to
a stop. It hangs there, in space, a magnificent and
ominous being, overwhelming in its pristine, faceted
beauty.
RIKER
What's it doing? Checking us out?
PICARD
Possibly... just as we are
checking it out.
Then, the Entity does something quite remarkable. It
turns, slowly, in space... a kind of enigmatic
pirouette, fascinating in its lumbering grace.
TROI
Is it... responding to us?
DOCTOR MARR
Let's test that. Ramp the
frequency again, Commander...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FIVE 53.
52 CONTINUED:
DATA
Emissions at thirty pulses per
second...
GEORDI
Captain, I'm reading a
transmission from the Entity...
a series of graviton pulses...
DOCTOR MARR
It's working... that's a response
to our signal...
Now the Entity begins to slide, from side to side...
then turning in a circle... almost like a kitten that
is being teased and tickled...
PICARD
Remarkable...
DATA
Captain, there is a pattern
emerging from its signals.
PICARD
It's trying to communicate with
us?
DATA
I believe so... although it will
take some time to decipher the
patterns...
A sense of anticipation begins to rise in Picard.
PICARD
Then it's possible...
communication... understanding...
DOCTOR MARR
Let me try something else... a
continuous graviton beam.
She bends to the controls, keys in instructions.
Now, the Crystalline Entity exhibits different
behavior. It comes to a rigid stop. Then it draws
close to the ship.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FIVE 54.
52 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Graviton pulses from the Entity
have stopped...
TROI
Maybe it doesn't like what we're
doing...
PICARD
Return to the intermittent
signal, Doctor...
But Doctor Marr is staring at the screen. She seems
calm... a bit remote...
DATA
Doctor Marr?
No answer. Troi now looks troubled... stands, looks
at Doctor Marr, concern in her eyes.
PICARD
Counselor... ?
TROI
Something's wrong...
DATA
Sir, the Entity is beginning to
resonate... vibrations
increasing rapidly...
Picard is now on his feet, turned to Doctor Marr.
PICARD
Doctor, stop the transmission!
That is an order --
Marr reaches out to Data, touches his arm.
DOCTOR MARR
It's for you, Renny... I did it
for you...
PICARD
Mister Worf, take charge of the
Doctor. Mister Data, shut down
that transmission.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/6/91 - ACT FIVE 55.
52 CONTINUED: (3)
Worf moves toward Doctor Marr, who seem unaware of
him. Data moves to her station.
GEORDI
Vibration amplitude is
increasing... it can't last much
longer.
DATA
I am unable to stop our graviton
signal, Captain. Doctor Marr
has isolated the access code.
GEORDI
Maybe I can create an override
sequence... shut it down from
here.
He works frantically at his station as Picard watches
the Entity. It is visibly vibrating... a tremor at
first... quickly escalating to a violent series of
spasms...
DATA
Resonance is approaching
critical...
GEORDI
I can override her program, but
it's gonna take time --
But the Entity is now vibrating into a blur, and...
53 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND ENTITY (OPTICAL)
The massive crystal, unable to withstand the pressures
of the incredible forces set up within it, explodes
in space. A brilliant burst of shards... scattering...
disseminating... an awful radiance of destruction...
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - 7/31/91 - ACT FIVE 56.
54 INT. BRIDGE
The shock of what has happened is incredible. Picard
turns toward the rear deck, his outrage restrained,
but formidable.
PICARD
Mister Worf... escort Doctor Marr
to her quarters.
WORF
Yes, sir.
He turns to her, but Doctor Marr seems oblivious to
the command. She still stares out at the destruction
she has caused. She holds Data's arm.
DOCTOR MARR
It will never hurt anyone again...
DATA
Captain... perhaps I should escort
Doctor Marr...
PICARD
Fine. But do not leave her
unattended.
55 OMITTED
56 ANGLE - DATA AND MARR
DATA
Doctor... if you will come with
me...
She turns and takes his arm, walks willingly toward
the turbolift, sober and reserved.
DOCTOR MARR
Of course.
57 INT. MARR'S QUARTERS - MINUTES LATER
as Data and Marr ENTER.
DATA
I will stay with you, Doctor.
She smiles fondly at him, moves to look out the window,
at the infinity of space.
STAR TREK: "Silicon Avatar" - REV. 8/7/91 - ACT FIVE 57.
57 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR MARR
How long will you live, Data?
DATA
There has been no predetermined
limit placed on my existence.
DOCTOR MARR
I'm glad. As long as you're
alive... he'll be alive.
She walks back to him. There is an absolute inner calm
in her... her mind has simply not accepted any reality
but the one she has chosen.
DOCTOR MARR
I need your help.
DATA
In what way, Doctor?
DOCTOR MARR
... like you did before... tell me
you understand, Renny... that you
know I did it for you, because
I love you... because I wanted
to give you peace, at last.
Data, incapable of fathoming her psychotic break, can
only respond on a literal level.
DATA
I do not find such a file in your
son's journals. However... from
what I know of him by his writing
and his memories, I do not believe
he would be happy. He was proud
of your career as a scientist,
and now you have destroyed it.
You say you did it for him, but
he would not want that. Yes.
He would be very sad now.
(innocently hopeful)
Does that help, Doctor Marr?
She stares at him, her eyes become opaque... not seeing
him... turned instead to some awful country deep
within.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END