STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Chase"
#40276-246
Story by
Ronald D. Moore
&
Joe Menosky
Teleplay by
Joe Menosky
Directed by
Jonathan Frakes
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1992 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 This script is not for publication or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
FEBRUARY 4, 1993
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/05/93 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Chase"
CAST
PICARD GALEN
RIKER GUL OCETT
DATA HUMANOID
BEVERLY
TROI NU'DAQ
WORF ROMULAN CAPTAIN
GEORDI
COMPUTER VOICE
MOTT
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
ENSIGN THREE ROMULANS
N.D. CARDASSIAN
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Chase"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
OBSERVATION LOUNGE CARDASSIAN SHIPS
TRANSPORTER ROOM
PICARD'S QUARTERS PLANET SURFACE
LAB
SICKBAY
TEN FORWARD
ENGINEERING
READY ROOM
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/05/93 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Chase"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
VOLTERRA vol-TAIR-ah
GALEN GAY-lin
NAISKOS NAY-skos
TARQUIN TAR-kwin
KEA KEY-ah
AOLIAN a-O-lee-in
SATAARAN suh-TAIR-ran
SOTHIS SO-this
SCHLIEMANN SCHLAY-mn
M'TELL muh-TELL
YA'SEEM ya-SEEM
AL-LEYAN al-LEE-in
CAERE kye-AIR
RAHM IZAD ROM-a-zod
NU-DAQ new-DOK
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Chase"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship moving at impulse against softly glowing bands
of gaseous material.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, Stardate 46731.5.
We are in the midst of the
Volterra nebula, a stellar
"nursery." Our three week mission
is a routine analysis of several
dozen protostars in various stages
of development.
2 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD, TROI, WORF are at their stations; DATA is at
the aft science station, working his console.
DATA
Captain, I have completed the
spectral evaluation of the outer
shell.
(beat)
Our survey of this protostar is
complete.
Picard acknowledges with a nod.
PICARD
(to Con)
Ensign, lay in a course to the
next one, three quarters impulse.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
The Ensign works her controls.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Riker to Captain Picard.
PICARD
(to COM)
Yes, Number One?
RIKER'S COM VOICE
May I see you in the Observation
Lounge, Sir?
Picard is puzzled but not alarmed.
PICARD
(to COM)
Of course. I'll be right there.
Picard stands and heads for the Observation Lounge
door.
3 OMITTED
4 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard ENTERS from the Bridge -- his attention is
immediately riveted toward an OBJECT on the middle of
the table. It is a TERRA-COTTA FIGURINE, roundish,
about a foot wide and tall, of vaguely HUMANOID shape,
with a serene look on its face -- like some alien
Buddha. Its surface is worn, it looks ancient.
Picard is stunned to see it.
PICARD
My God...
5 INCLUDE RIKER AND PROFESSOR RICHARD GALEN
PROFESSOR GALEN is in his sixties, tall, slender, greyhaired,
and seems to emanate dignity and intelligence.
Riker has a smile on his face.
GALEN
Then you can identify this object,
Mister Picard.
Picard is taken aback by the man's face and voice.
PICARD
Professor Galen.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - TEASER 3.
5 CONTINUED:
GALEN
(lightly)
I suppose I should say -- Captain
Picard.
Picard glances toward Riker.
RIKER
(explains)
Professor Galen hailed me from his
shuttle an hour ago. He suggested
that we surprise you.
GALEN
To clarify... I insisted and your
First Officer was kind enough to
accommodate me. I hope I haven't
been overly presumptuous...
(beat)
My star pupil now being master of
the stars...
Picard brushes it off with a wave of his hand.
PICARD
No one is more welcome on my ship.
He turns again to the figurine on the table.
PICARD
(continuing)
I never thought I would see a
Kurlan naiskos.
(to Galen)
Fifth Dynasty?
GALEN
Is that your conclusion, Mister
Picard.
(catching himself)
Forgive me again, Captain.
PICARD
Please. "Mister" will do just
fine.
Riker reacts to this with a smile, as Picard examines
the figurine more closely, suddenly the student
attempting to shine before his mentor.
PICARD
(continuing)
The overall configuration is
certainly Fifth Dynasty. But the
surface ornamentation...
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - TEASER 4.
5 CONTINUED: (2)
GALEN
Yes...
Picard steps closer, leans toward the object, sees an
extremely faded HINT OF COLOR.
PICARD
Green polychrome over the eyes...
And the eyes themselves... open.
(smiles)
Third Dynasty. From the workshop
of the Master of Tarquin Hill.
The Professor nods, pleased.
GALEN
Well done.
Picard explains to Riker.
PICARD
The Master of Tarquin Hill created
ceramic designs that were three
centuries ahead of his time. We
only know him by his work -- his
name has never been discovered...
Picard indicates the figurine.
PICARD
(continuing)
This object is over twelve
thousand years old...
RIKER
The planet Kurl? That's a hell of
a long way outside Federation
territory.
As if that was Picard's next question, the Captain
turns to his former instructor.
PICARD
Indeed. I thought you had
completed your studies of Kurlan
artifacts some time ago.
GALEN
I happened to be in the
neighborhood last summer. I
couldn't resist.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - TEASER 5.
5 CONTINUED: (3)
Picard doesn't seem to consider this an answer to his
question, but the Professor immediately refocuses his
attention onto the figurine.
GALEN
(continuing)
Go ahead.
Picard is surprised.
PICARD
It's complete?
Galen answers with a smile. Picard steps over to the
figurine, grasps its sides with both hands and LIFTS --
the top half separates from the bottom, revealing a
hollow interior. Inside are over a dozen TINY
FIGURINES, similar in shape to the original.
Riker steps over to look inside as Picard explains with
excitement.
PICARD
The Kurl believed every individual
is a community of individuals.
Inside us are many voices, each
with its own desires, its own
style, its own way of viewing the
world.
Picard picks up one of the tiny figurines.
PICARD
(continuing)
But Kurlan civilization died out
thousands of years ago. It's rare
to find a figurine intact.
(to the Professor)
A truly incredible find.
GALEN
It's yours, Jean-Luc.
Picard shakes his head.
PICARD
How could I accept this --
GALEN
... Graciously, Mister Picard. You
could accept it graciously.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - TEASER 6.
5 CONTINUED: (4)
Picard nods, touched.
PICARD
How long can you stay? There's so
much to talk about.
RIKER
The Professor is scheduled to meet
a Vulcan transport the day after
tomorrow.
Picard's face falls.
PICARD
Two days? That's not nearly
enough time...
GALEN
We may have considerably more than
that.
PICARD
I don't understand.
GALEN
I am currently on an expedition.
A journey into unexplored
historical territory.
(beat)
And I intend to take you with me.
Picard and Riker exchange a surprised look. OFF their
expressions...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 7.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes)
6 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise at impulse speed in the protostar
nebula.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. It
has been over thirty years since
I last saw my archaeology
professor. His presence has taken
me back to a time when I had
considered a very different
career...
7 INT. TEN FORWARD
Picard is at a table having tea with Professor Galen.
The Captain doesn't frequent Ten Forward, and draws a
few curious glances from the other patrons.
GALEN
I read your paper on the Kea Four
excavation that you delivered at
last year's symposium. It was...
informative.
Picard smiles.
PICARD
Damning with faint praise.
GALEN
(shrugs)
One can hardly serve two masters.
For a Starfleet Captain at the
helm of the Federation flagship...
attendance alone would have been
impressive enough. But you still
managed to present a piece of
original research.
(beat)
A small piece, granted.
Nevertheless, I admire your
tenacity.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 8.
7 CONTINUED:
PICARD
I had hoped to see you there. You
said in your last letter that you
might go.
GALEN
Much too busy, I'm afraid. I was
on the far side of the Aolian
Cluster at the time.
Picard reacts with surprise. Then...
PICARD
Professor Galen, may I ask a frank
question?
GALEN
Please.
PICARD
Your published writings have
been... sporadic over the last
ten years or so. Your appearances
at symposia have been rare -- or
scheduled and then cancelled at
the last minute. The finest
archaeologist of the century has
become shrouded with an air of
mystery.
GALEN
And my reputation as a result has
no doubt grown.
PICARD
(smiles)
I've yet to run across anyone that
didn't love a good mystery.
GALEN
The Sataaran of Sothis Three
disdain them.
(nods)
Nevertheless, as a general
principle, your statement holds.
A beat. Picard leans forward.
PICARD
Professor, what have you been
doing for the last decade?
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 9.
7 CONTINUED: (2)
GALEN
Are you familiar with
micropaleontology?
PICARD
(nods)
Studying fossil records at a
microscopic level. I remember
reading your papers on the
subject. But that was years
ago... Then your work seemed to
stop.
GALEN
No. The work continued.
The man lowers his voice.
GALEN
(continuing)
I made a discovery so profound in
its implications that silence
seemed the wisest course.
He pauses a moment.
GALEN
(continuing)
This... work has occupied my every
waking thought, it's intruded upon
my dreams. It's become my life.
And when it's finished, when I
announce my findings...
(beat)
It will be heard half-way across
the galaxy.
Picard reacts.
PICARD
Tell me --
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT ONE 10.
7 CONTINUED: (3)
GALEN
... I'm sorry, Mister Picard. But
that information has a price --
your agreement to join me on the
final leg of this expedition.
A silent beat.
PICARD
For how long?
GALEN
Three months. Perhaps a year. If
we had a starship and complete
diplomatic access -- a matter of
weeks. But we'll have only my
shuttle, the transports we can
arrange, and our combined talents.
PICARD
Why can't you do this without me?
The Professor looks at him for a moment, then glances
away.
GALEN
I'm not a young man. There will
be hazards along the way. I don't
want my own inadequacies to
jeopardize the completion of this
work.
PICARD
Professor, I'm honored that you'd
think of me. But I have a
responsibility --
GALEN
... to History. What if you could
have helped Schliemann discover
the City of Troy? Or if you had
been with M'Tell as she stepped
upon Ya'Seem for the first time?
(beat)
How could anything compare?
A long, silent beat. Picard stands.
PICARD
May I sleep on it?
The Professor nods.
GALEN
Dream not of today, Mister Picard.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 11.
7 CONTINUED: (4)
Picard smiles, remembering.
PICARD
"Dream not of today." The night
blessing of the Yash-El.
GALEN
As I recall, you missed that
question on the final exam.
PICARD
I've had a few years to look it
up.
(beat)
The Enterprise is yours, for as
long as you're here.
Galen acknowledges the gesture with a nod of thanks.
PICARD
(continuing)
Dream not of today, Professor.
Picard heads for the door. OFF Galen's contemplative
face...
8 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
At impulse in the protostar nebula.
9 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS
Picard is at a table, staring into space. The ancient
FIGURINE is in front of him, open, the tiny figures
visible inside. The door CHIMES.
PICARD
Come.
The door opens and BEVERLY steps inside, her cheeriness
in sharp contrast to Picard's contemplative mood.
BEVERLY
Good morning.
(beat)
You look like you've been up for
awhile.
She goes to the replicator.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT ONE 12.
9 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Yes.
Beverly reacts, then turns to the replicator.
BEVERLY
(to replicator)
One tea, Earl Grey, hot. One
macchiato.
The SOUND of the replicator. She turns away from it
with a mug of tea and a tiny cappuccino in an espresso
cup. She takes them over to Picard, then sits next to
him.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
Let's hear it...
PICARD
I had a long talk with Professor
Galen last night. He asked me to
leave the Enterprise -- to join
him on an archaeological
expedition that could last a year.
BEVERLY
Jean-Luc... that must be tempting.
PICARD
I wouldn't leave the Enterprise.
But the offer itself has made me
feel a certain... regret.
BEVERLY
That you could have been an
archaeologist instead of a
starship Captain?
PICARD
Not exactly. I'm certainly not
sorry about the path I've taken...
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT ONE 13.
9 CONTINUED: (2)
Picard sips his tea, sets it down.
PICARD
(continuing)
But... there's a certain...
passion that comes with the
singleminded pursuit of the past.
He picks up one of the tiny figurines.
PICARD
(continuing)
To be captured by an image created
by another's hand, hundreds or
thousands of years ago. A being
long dead, who still speaks to you
through that image, who says "I
was alive, as you are alive."
Picard sets the figurine on the table in front of them.
PICARD
(continuing)
I've only approximated that
feeling. Professor Galen made it
his life.
He places the tiny figurine into the larger one with
the others.
PICARD
(continuing)
The Professor didn't choose this
figure at random -- the many
voices inside the one. He knows
that the past is one of the most
insistent voices inside me. This
gift was meant to remind me of
that.
BEVERLY
And the exploration of space?
Surely that counts for
something...
Picard smiles.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT ONE 14.
9 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
I wouldn't trade it for anything.
And I'd still make the same
decision I made all those years
ago.
(beat)
I'm just sorry I have to say no to
him a second time.
BEVERLY
You two were very close, weren't
you?
PICARD
I had a father. But Professor
Galen was like a father who
understood me. And he had
children -- but none followed in
his footsteps. So, I was like the
son who understood him.
BEVERLY
I guess it was difficult for both
of you when you left.
PICARD
The Professor is somewhat...
internal. He doesn't express
feelings easily. But it was
difficult for me.
Picard picks up the top half of the larger figurine and
replaces it onto the lower.
PICARD
(continuing)
In some ways, I wish he'd never
come on board.
OFF the figure, with its enigmatic expression...
10 INT. LAB
Professor Galen is working at a console. A mid-sized
Viewscreen displays a star chart, color-coded for
political boundaries.
The door opens and Picard ENTERS the lab.
GALEN
Good morning, Mister Picard.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT ONE 15.
10 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Professor.
Picard joins him at the console, staring at the star
chart.
GALEN
(re: screen)
The Vulcan ship can take us as far
as DS-Four. An Al-Leyan transport
is scheduled to arrive at the
station three weeks later.
They'll take us as far as Caere
and we can use the shuttle to get
to Indri Eight. Our first stop.
Picard looks at him.
PICARD
I'm afraid I won't be going.
The Professor doesn't answer.
PICARD
(continuing)
The Enterprise isn't something I
can leave and then come back to.
If I go, I go for good. I'm not
prepared to do that.
GALEN
This isn't some undergraduate
study project you're turning down.
This is the chance of a lifetime.
(beat)
Don't make the same mistake twice.
PICARD
You can't believe that my career
in Starfleet has been a mistake.
Galen flashes with sudden anger.
GALEN
What are you doing at this very
moment? A "survey mission."
You're like a Roman centurion off
patrolling the provinces -- the
maintenance of a dull and bloated
Empire.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 16.
10 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
We both know that isn't true.
GALEN
I know this. As a scholar, you're
nothing but a dilettante.
Picard is stung by the words.
GALEN
(continuing)
Years ago, I offered you the
chance to become the finest
archaeologist of your generation.
Your achievements could have
surpassed even my own.
(beat)
But you decided to turn your back
on a life of profound discovery.
(beat)
And you turned your back on me.
Picard suddenly sees the depth of the Professor's
disappointment -- a bitterness suppressed for decades.
PICARD
I never wanted --
Galen holds up a hand, stopping him. There is pain in
his voice, suddenly quiet and beaten and old.
GALEN
Will you come with me?
PICARD
I can't.
The Professor's eyes suddenly harden. He taps the
computer console and the star chart on the screen goes
blank. He heads for the door.
GALEN
Then I'll be going.
PICARD
You aren't scheduled to rendezvous
with the Vulcan ship for two
days...
GALEN
There's nothing else for me here.
He pauses at the door.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT ONE 17.
10 CONTINUED: (3)
GALEN
Goodbye, Captain.
He steps out the door and it closes behind him. OFF
Picard's wounded expression.
11 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise at warp.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, supplemental. We
have completed our mission in the
nebula and are en route to a
diplomatic conference on Atalia
Seven. I must admit that I have
lost my enthusiasm for those
proceedings.
12 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, Data and Troi.
DATA
At present speed, we will arrive
at the Atalia system in thirty-seven
hours.
Picard nods -- he appears subdued. Troi looks at him
with concern. She steps over to his side.
TROI
(quietly)
Captain, I'm going for a walk in
the arboretum. I wouldn't mind
some company.
He glances at her, considers the offer, then nods. As
Picard stands to go --
WORF
(off instruments)
Captain! A distress call from
Professor Galen's shuttle.
(works controls)
Onscreen.
Everyone reacts with alarm.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 17A.
13 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Professor Galen is staring at them, fear in his eyes,
the interior of his Federation shuttle in the
background.
GALEN
Enterprise! I'm being boarded --
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 18.
13 CONTINUED:
The screen goes to normal background.
WORF
Transmission has been blocked.
PICARD
Locate the call's origin and set
course, warp eight.
Everyone goes into action.
14 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
At high warp across a field of stars.
15 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, Data and Troi. The tension is
high.
DATA
I have located the shuttle. It is
under attack, Captain.
PICARD
Take us out of warp. On screen.
16 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
A Federation shuttle is close to a YRIDIAN ATTACK SHIP --
much smaller than the Enterprise, but wasp-like and
deadly-looking.
WORF
A Yridian destroyer.
RIKER
Battle stations.
WORF
Aye.
Worf works his console, the RED ALERT sounds and the
lights come on.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT ONE 19.
16 CONTINUED:
DATA
Professor Galen is still inside
his vessel.
(looks up)
His vital signs are barely
registering.
PICARD
Get him out of there.
WORF
The shuttle is within a tractor
beam -- the Transporter cannot
penetrate it.
RIKER
Hail the Yridians.
WORF
(works console)
They are not responding.
A sudden BLAST from the Yridians rocks the Enterprise.
PICARD
Return phaser fire, disable their
offensive systems.
17 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise fires a short phaser blast that hits the
Yridian ship -- it violently EXPLODES.
18 INT. BRIDGE
The Bridge crew reacts with surprise as the Enterprise
is shaken by the shock wave.
RIKER
Worf?
WORF
I don't understand, Commander.
The phaser blast was not powerful
enough to destroy the ship.
DATA
The Yridian vessel was overloading
its power generators. That,
combined with the phaser blast,
caused it to explode.
Picard heads for the door.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT ONE 20.
18 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
(to COM)
Transporter Room One, lock onto
Professor Galen and transport him
directly to Sickbay...
19 INT. SICKBAY (OPTICAL)
The door opens and Picard rushes inside.
Beverly is standing next to Galen, who is on a
diagnostic bed -- his vital signs on the monitor are
almost nil.
BEVERLY
(to Picard; sotto)
He took a disruptor hit point
blank. There's nothing I can do.
Picard steps over to his side. The Professor stares at
him for a moment, then shuts his eyes.
GALEN
Jean-Luc... I was... too harsh...
The vital signs go flat. Professor Galen is completely
still.
OFF Picard's anguished face.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 21-22.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
20
thru OMITTED
21
22 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard and Worf are at the table. Data and Geordi are
at the far end, near the Viewscreen.
Picard's mood is noticeably somber.
GEORDI
I'd say at least three Yridians
boarded the Professor's shuttle.
PICARD
What were they after?
GEORDI
We're not sure, but it looked like
they were trying to download
something from his computer.
DATA
When he was attacked, Professor
Galen began to protect certain
files in his computer memory.
GEORDI
We were able to do a partial
(TECH)-reconstruction on the
shuttle computer, so we have at
least some of those files.
23 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN
The screen displays a BLOCK of RAW NUMBERS.
GEORDI
We found nineteen different blocks
of numbers like this one.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT TWO 23.
23 CONTINUED:
PICARD
What do they mean?
DATA
They could mean almost anything.
Unless we can narrow the
parameters of the search, it would
be impossible for the computer to
identify the patterns with any
accuracy.
GEORDI
We tried every decryption key on
record -- in case Professor Galen
was using some kind of code.
(indicates screen)
We still can't make heads or tails
of them.
WORF
Were the Yridians able to get
these number blocks?
GEORDI
At least some of them. It's hard
to say how many.
A silent beat.
PICARD
Apparently, the Yridians knew more
about the Professor's work than we
do.
(re: Viewscreen)
They may have known what these
numbers mean.
GEORDI
If they did, that knowledge died
with them.
PICARD
Not necessarily. The Yridians are
information dealers. They could
have been delivering the number
blocks to someone else. Did they
send any signals before they were
destroyed?
WORF
We detected no transmissions.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 24.
23 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
There weren't any vessels in the
immediate area.
A long beat as they consider what to do.
PICARD
Do the shuttle's flight logs show
where Galen had been before coming
on board the Enterprise?
DATA
(nodding)
The logs indicate that Professor
Galen visited an unexplored star
system -- Ruah Four.
PICARD
What's the distance from our
current position?
DATA
Four days at warp six.
A beat.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 25.
23 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
The conference can wait.
(beat)
Lay in a course to the Ruah
system.
Picard stands and leaves the table. OFF the faces of
the others as they watch him go.
24 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise is entering orbit above a blue-green,
earth-like planet.
25 INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Troi and the Ensign at the
CONN. The Viewscreen displays the blue-green planet.
RIKER
(to Ensign)
Standard orbit, Ensign.
DATA
(off instruments)
Ruah Four is an M class planet.
Sixty-seven percent of the surface
is covered with water. The landmass
contains multiple animal
species, including a genus of
proto-hominids.
PICARD
(beat)
Scan for any evidence of monuments
or earth works which might suggest
an ancient civilization.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 26.
25 CONTINUED:
DATA
(works)
There is nothing to indicate
former occupancy by even a
primitive culture, sir.
PICARD
Then what was the most renowned
archaeologist in the Federation
doing here?
A long silent beat as Picard stares at the Viewscreen
in frustration. Nobody says anything. A beat, Picard
appears to be thinking out loud.
PICARD
When he left the Enterprise, he
was going to take a Vulcan ship to
Deep Space Four. And from
there...
(trying to recall)
An Al-Leyan transport as far as
Caere... Then the shuttle to...
Indri Eight.
Picard steps toward Data.
PICARD
Mister Data, what do we know about
Indri Eight?
DATA
The Indri system was first
identified by Federation vessels
nearly sixty years ago.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 27.
25 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA (Cont'd)
The eighth planet is L-class,
covered by deciduous vegetation...
unexplored, but with no apparent
evidence of civilization, present
or past. In fact, the planet
possesses no animal life
whatsoever.
A beat as Picard considers this.
PICARD
Number One, we'll proceed to Indri
Eight.
Everyone reacts with surprise, and Riker exchanges
looks with Worf.
RIKER
Sir, with all due respect... we've
run into one dead end... and it
doesn't sound like Indri Eight is
any more promising. We're already
late for the conference on Atalia
Seven...
PICARD
(sharply)
I know Starfleet's timetable.
(beat; indicates screen)
Professor Galen visited this
planet only days ago. And he was
headed to Indri Eight when he was
killed. There is a connection
between the two planets. And I'm
going to find it.
RIKER
Aye, Sir.
Picard EXITS to the Ready Room.
RIKER
(to CONN)
Lay in a course, Ensign. Warp
seven.
26 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise at warp speed across a field of stars.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 28.
27 INT. READY ROOM (OPTICAL)
Picard is staring at the small COMPUTER on his desk.
A NUMBER BLOCK seen before in the Observation Lounge
briefing is displayed on the screen. He taps the
keyboard and the screen displays a different number
block. The Professor's FIGURINE gift is now on a shelf
in the background. The door CHIMES.
PICARD
Come.
The door opens and Troi steps inside. Picard doesn't
look up.
TROI
How's it going?
PICARD
It's not.
(indicates screen)
I thought if I stared at these
number blocks long enough I might
start to see some kind of pattern.
Picard taps the keys -- another number block replaces
this one. Picard shakes his head.
PICARD
(re: screen)
Nothing.
Troi steps over by his side.
TROI
What I really meant was -- how's
it going with you?
PICARD
As well as can be expected, given
the circumstances.
They are silent for a moment.
PICARD
If I had only gone with him --
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 29.
27 CONTINUED:
TROI
... You might both be dead.
Captain, you can't start thinking
like that. You didn't abandon
him. You chose not to abandon a
life-long career. It was the
right decision. And it was in no
way responsible for his death.
PICARD
Yes, I realize that.
TROI
(gently)
I know how much the Professor
meant to you... and how much you
want to find out what happened...
but staring at these numbers isn't
going to bring him back.
(beat)
The conference on Atalia Seven has
been scheduled for six months.
Starfleet is relying on your
mediation efforts to --
Picard looks at her -- his manner is firm.
PICARD
Counselor, this isn't a case of my
taking the Enterprise and its crew
on some wild goose chase in order
to purge myself of guilt or
remorse.
(beat)
I simply will not allow Galen's
death to be in vain. If that
means inconveniencing a group of
squabbling delegates for a few
more days, then so be it. The
responsibility is mine.
It's a dismissal. Troi nods.
TROI
Captain.
She turns and heads for the door. Picard stares back
at the computer. OFF: the silent block of numbers on
the screen.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT TWO 29A.
28 INT. BRIDGE
Riker, Data, Worf and the Ensign.
WORF
We are in range of the planet.
RIKER
Riker to Picard... we're
approaching Indri Eight.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
On my way.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT TWO 30.
28 CONTINUED:
Data looks up from his console, puzzled.
DATA
Sensors are picking up severe
atmospheric fluctuations on the
planet...
Everyone reacts.
RIKER
Assume a high orbit.
The Ensign works the CONN. Picard ENTERS from the
Ready Room.
PICARD
Mister Worf, onscreen.
29 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN - (OPTICAL)
The green planet is slowly turning brown before their
eyes, changing color along a single front.
WORF
(off instruments)
Some kind of plasma reaction is
consuming the lower atmosphere.
PICARD
Can we stop it?
WORF
No, Sir. The reaction is
global...
Data looks up from his console.
DATA
All life on the planet is being
destroyed.
OFF their grim reactions.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/08/93 - ACT THREE 31-33.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
30 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship is in orbit around the burned out planet.
31 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
As before.
RIKER
Why would anyone want to destroy
all the life on an uninhabited,
neutral planet with no strategic
importance whatsoever?
Picard stares at the image of the dead planet for a
moment.
PICARD
All the life...
(beat then to others)
What if the Professor's number
blocks have something to do with
organic material?
DATA
Narrowing the search parameters to
the biological database would
increase the chances that the
computer could find a match.
PICARD
(on the move)
I'll be in the lab.
As he EXITS...
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT THREE 34-35.
32 INT. LAB - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Picard and Beverly are watching the Viewscreen
anxiously. The number block is shifting and changing
as the computer searches for a match. Finally, the
screen stops and the number block is matched side by
side next to an identical number block.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT THREE 36.
32 CONTINUED:
COMPUTER VOICE
Pattern match found.
Picard and Beverly react, hopeful.
BEVERLY
Specify.
The number block is replaced by several different
segments of DNA. The screen looks as though there are
small pieces of rope all perfectly lined up and sitting
on an imaginary grid.
COMPUTER VOICE
The number blocks are mathematical
representations of fragments of
deoxyribonucleic acid strands.
PICARD
(reacts, amazed)
DNA fragments!
BEVERLY
(off screen)
Each from a different lifeform...
from nineteen different worlds.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT THREE 37.
32 CONTINUED: (3)
Picard inspects the screen -- each gene fragment has
the name of its planet of origin underneath it. He
turns to Beverly, who continues to stare at the screen,
as if her mind is racing.
PICARD
The planets these fragments come
from are scattered across the
quadrant. No wonder it took the
Professor years to collect them.
But why?
Beverly stares at the screen for another beat.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT THREE 38.
32 CONTINUED: (3)
BEVERLY
(excited)
Wait a minute. These fragments
all have similar protein
configurations... they could be
chemically compatible.
PICARD
How can that be possible? They're
different species... from
different planets. There
shouldn't be any compatibility at
all.
BEVERLY
I know, but look at the base pair
combinations, they're uniform.
(beat)
If I'm right...
(beat)
Computer, connect the DNA
fragments according to protein-link
compatibility.
The fragments on the screen move and shift... linking
together one by one like Lego pieces... finally they
form a grid-like shape. The design is similar to a
CIRCUIT CHIP.
PICARD
(amazed)
What is it?
BEVERLY
I have no idea...
OFF the screen.
33 INT. ENGINEERING - ON VIEWSCREEN
Which is showing the same geometric matrix just seen in
the Lab. Geordi and Data are talking to Picard and
Beverly.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT THREE 39.
33 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(indicating genetic
shape on screen)
This is not a natural design.
Captain, this is part of an
algorithm... coded at the
molecular level.
PICARD
An algorithm? Are you saying
these DNA fragments are elements
of some kind of computer program?
GEORDI
I know how it sounds, but there's
no way this could be a random
formation. It's definitely part
of a program.
A beat as they digest this information. They react and
Beverly points to one of the fragments on the screen.
BEVERLY
(beat)
This fragment has been part of
every DNA strand on Earth since
life began there... and the other
fragments are just as old.
(beat)
Someone would've had to write this
program over four billion years
ago.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/10/93 - ACT THREE 40.
33 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
So four billion years ago, someone
scattered this genetic material
into the primordial soup of at
least nineteen different planets
across the galaxy.
DATA
The genetic information must have
been incorporated into the
earliest lifeforms on those
planets, and then passed down
through each generation.
BEVERLY
But why would anyone do it in the
first place?
PICARD
(to Geordi)
Do you have any idea what this
program could be designed to do?
GEORDI
We couldn't know that until we
assembled the entire program and
ran it.
Geordi points to several places on the graphic of the
"program" that appear to be missing pieces.
GEORDI
There are several fragments still
missing. We've tried all the DNA
material in Federation records,
but we can't find any with
compatible protein configurations.
PICARD
Then they must be from worlds
outside the Federation.
(beat)
How many people aboard the
Enterprise come from non-Federation
planets?
DATA
Seventeen.
PICARD
It may be a long shot, but we
ought to check each of those
seventeen people to see if any of
them have the correct protein
configurations.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/10/93 - ACT THREE 40A.
33 CONTINUED: (3)
BEVERLY
I'll begin taking DNA samples.
Beverly EXITS. Geordi has been thinking for a few
minutes.
GEORDI
You know Captain... I've been
thinking. Someone else must know
about this program.
Picard give him a questioning look.
GEORDI
I bet one of the missing fragments
was on Indri Eight... and that's
why it was destroyed --
PICARD
To keep anyone else from getting
that piece of the puzzle.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/10/93 - ACT THREE 41-42B
33 CONTINUED: (4)
Picard looks at the mysterious shape on the screen.
PICARD
It's four billion years old... a
computer program from a highly
advanced civilization... hidden in
the fabric of life itself.
(beat)
Whatever information is contained
in that program could be the most
profound discovery of our time.
Or the most dangerous. And the
Professor knew that.
34 OMITTED
35 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Still in orbit above the now dead Indri Eight.
36
thru OMITTED
36B
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/10/93 - ACT THREE 43.
36B INT. SICKBAY
Beverly is removing a sampling DEVICE from the arm of
one ALIEN CREWMEMBER who is sitting on the bed. MOTT,
the barber, is standing in the vestibule, waiting.
BEVERLY
(to Crewmember)
That's it. Thank you.
(to Mott)
You're next, Mister Mott.
Beverly indicates the bed and he moves directly to the
bed as Beverly re-adjusts her sampling device. The
Alien Crewmember EXITS.
MOTT
Glad to be of assistance, Doctor.
You can always count on me in a
pinch.
(beat)
What do I do?
BEVERLY
Nothing. I'm just going to sample
some of your skin cells.
She rolls up his sleeve.
MOTT
(apprehensive)
Is this going to hurt?
BEVERLY
About as much as that pedicure you
gave me last week.
MOTT
(alarmed)
That was an accident.
BEVERLY
(smiles)
Relax. You won't feel a thing.
Beverly runs the instrument over his skin and then hits
a control.
36B INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
which displays a long DNA strand. Suddenly a tiny
segment of the strand is highlighted.
BEVERLY
(hopeful)
That might be it.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/10/93 - ACT THREE 43A.
36B CONTINUED:
MOTT
Of course it is.
(beat)
Might be what?
BEVERLY
Let's see if it fits into the
program.
MOTT
Obviously it fits.
(beat)
Fits what?
Beverly works for a moment... then looks disappointed.
BEVERLY
Close... but no.
MOTT
Maybe you're not doing it right.
BEVERLY
(firm)
Thank you, Mister Mott. That'll
be all.
Mott reluctantly EXITS.
MOTT
(grumbling)
Just trying to help... no one ever
listens to me...
36C INT. READY ROOM
Beverly is with Picard, who is pacing.
BEVERLY
They all came up negative.
PICARD
I've gone through every page of
the Professor's published work...
hoping I'd find a clue about where
to go next... but so far nothing.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/10/93 - ACT THREE 43B.
36C CONTINUED:
A long beat.
BEVERLY
Maybe we've been at this too long.
Why don't we both get some sleep
and start again in the morning.
Picard moves around the room for a moment... then
stops. Something has caught his eye. He's staring at
the FIGURINE against the wall.
PICARD
(remembering)
"I was in the neighborhood."
He turns excited to Beverly.
PICARD
(continuing)
When I asked the Professor what
took him all the way to Kurl, he
said he was "in the neighborhood."
Doing what?
BEVERLY
Collecting a DNA sample,
perhaps...
Picard rushes to the computer, hits a few keys, checks
the screen.
PICARD
The only planet near the Kurlan
system capable of supporting life
is Loren Three.
BEVERLY
There's no Loren Three sample in
the data we downloaded from the
Professor's shuttle. If he did
get one from there it must have
been taken by the Yridians when
they attacked.
PICARD
(to COM)
Mister Data, set course for Loren
Three, maximum warp.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Yes, Sir.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT THREE 44.
36C CONTINUED:
Beverly heads out the door to the Bridge. Picard
stares out the window. OFF his firm expression.
37 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
At high warp speed.
38 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, Data and the Ensign.
DATA
We are approaching the Loren
system.
RIKER
Slow to half impulse, and take us
into orbit above the third planet.
The Ensign works her controls.
PICARD
There's a good chance our
competition has gotten here first.
Battle stations, Mister Worf.
WORF
(works console)
Aye.
The RED ALERT comes on.
DATA
We are entering orbit..
RIKER
(re: Viewscreen)
You were right, Captain, we've got
company.
39 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
TWO CARDASSIAN VESSELS are in orbit above the planet.
RIKER
(continuing)
Cardassians.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT THREE 45.
39 CONTINUED:
WORF
They are hailing us.
PICARD
On screen.
Worf touches his console -- a FEMALE CARDASSIAN
CAPTAIN, GUL OCETT appears on the Viewscreen. (This is
the first time we've seen an adult female Cardassian.
They could possess the kind of sexual dimorphism
apparent in many species -- the neck "veins" for
instance, might be more pronounced and colorful in
Cardassian females than in males.)
GUL OCETT
I am Gul Ocett. Identify
yourselves and state your business
in this star system.
PICARD
(to screen)
I'm Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the
Enterprise. And I fail to see why
I should explain my presence to
you. Cardassia has no claims on
this sector.
GUL OCETT
No, I suppose not. But my
admittedly hasty estimate shows
one Federation Starship and two
Cardassian war vessels.
(smiles)
Perhaps I've miscounted.
Picard matches her dueling tone.
PICARD
Not at all. But the Enterprise is
on a purely scientific mission.
You have nothing to gain by
interfering with us.
GUL OCETT
And you have nothing to lose by
delaying a "purely scientific
mission" for a few days. I invite
you to withdraw...
Picard and the Cardassian stare each other down.
Suddenly Worf breaks the stalemate.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT THREE 46.
39 CONTINUED: (2)
WORF
Captain, a Klingon attack cruiser
is decloaking off the starboard
bow!
(beat)
They are hailing us.
Worf works his console.
KLINGON CAPTAIN'S VOICE
This is the Klingon vessel Maht-H'a.
What are you doing here?
Everyone reacts shocked by the sudden turn of events.
The Cardassian looks as surprised as the rest...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT THREE 46.
39 CONTINUED: (2)
WORF
Captain, a Bird of Prey is
decloaking off starboard!
(beat)
They are hailing us.
Worf works his console.
KLINGON CAPTAIN'S VOICE
This is the Klingon vessel Maht-H'a.
Who are you and what are you
doing here?
Everyone reacts shocked by the suddent turn of events.
The Cardassian looks as surprised as the rest...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 47.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
40 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship hanging in space, in a stand-off with two
Cardassian battleships and one Klingon bird of prey.
PICARD (V. O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. It
seems that we have not one, but
two competitors in our attempt to
complete Professor Galen's puzzle.
I have prevailed upon the
Cardassian and Klingon Captains to
meet with me.
41 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard is at the table with the Klingon, NU'DAQ, and
the Cardassian, Gul Ocett.
PICARD
I believe we all know why we're
here. If we admit that much, we
can move forward.
But the Cardassian and Klingon merely stare at him in
various guises of innocent bewilderment.
GUL OCETT
We are merely scouting the planet
for possible colonization --
NU'DAQ
Pah! A ridiculous story.
GUL OCETT
And why are you here, then?
NU'DAQ
Scientific research.
The Cardassian laughs and the Klingon fumes. Picard
steps in.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 48.
41 CONTINUED:
PICARD
There's no point in trying to
deceive each other... we all know
about Professor Galen's research
and about the computer program
which is composed of DNA
fragments.
The Klingon and Cardassian exchange looks, but say
nothing -- trying to hang onto any advantage. Picard
pushes on.
PICARD
I'll take your silence as
confirmation. Now, it stands to
reason that no one has all the DNA
fragments necessary to complete
the program.
(to Cardassian)
You were the first to arrive in
this system. Do you have an
organic sample from the planet
below?
Gul Ocett considers him for a moment, glances at the
Klingon and calculates her response for a beat. Then
she decides to move forward.
GUL OCETT
Yes. And I will open fire on
anyone who attempts to obtain
another one.
NU'DAQ
(with contempt)
As if we fear Cardassian
threats...
PICARD
(ignoring him)
I believe one of you also has a
fragment from Indri Eight.
NU'DAQ
(proudly)
Yes. And there will be no other
samples from Indri Eight.
GUL OCETT
What is that supposed to mean?
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 49.
41 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
He destroyed the planet's
biosphere after taking the sample.
GUL OCETT
(sneer)
Typical Klingon thinking... take
what you want and then destroy the
rest.
NU'DAQ
Thank you.
PICARD
All of us are missing some of the
fragments... but not necessarily
the same ones. Unless we combine
what we have, we'll never learn
the secret of this program.
The Klingon brushes this all off with an impatient wave
of his arm.
NU'DAQ
There is no secret. It is an
ancient weapon design of
incredible power. And the Klingon
Empire will not allow it to fall
into an enemy's hands.
(to Picard)
Or even a friend's...
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 50.
41 CONTINUED: (3)
GUL OCETT
A weapon? The Yridian who sold us
the information claimed that the
program would yield the key to an
unlimited power source.
PICARD
Until we assemble the entire
program no on can know its
ultimate purpose.
GUL OCETT
He's right. For all we know it
might be a recipe for biscuits.
NU'DAQ
Biscuits? If that is what you
believe, then go back to
Cardassia. I will send you my
mother's recipe.
PICARD
Enough. Without cooperation we
will get nowhere.
A beat.
GUL OCETT
What do you propose?
PICARD
If you both bring the fragments
you possess to the Enterprise, I
will combine them with ours. The
result will be observed by all
parties simultaneously, giving no
one the advantage.
NU'DAQ
And if we refuse?
PICARD
Then this endeavor stops dead,
right here in this room.
OFF the aliens' faces as they consider his words.
42 INT. LAB - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN
The screen shows the partly assembled ancient program
we've seen before. It is obvious that several "pieces"
are missing.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 50A.
42 CONTINUED:
Data and Beverly are at the console. Picard is facing
the screen with the Klingon and the Cardassian. Both
aliens are holding small COMPUTERS -- basically, beefed-up
looking TRICORDERS -- that they've brought over from
their respective ships.
DATA
(to Klingon)
Captain.
The Klingon plugs his hand-held computer into a console
interface. Data works the console controls.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/10/93 - ACT FOUR 51.
42 CONTINUED: (2)
A MISSING PIECE OF THE PUZZLE suddenly appears in its
proper place on the screen.
NU'DAQ
Excellent.
The anticipation in the room goes up a few notches.
The Klingon steps away with his machine, and the
Cardassian takes his place, plugging her computer into
the console interface. Data again works the controls.
A beat -- then several of the remaining "holes" are
filled in. Now, only one "hole" is left unfilled.
BEVERLY
There's still one missing piece...
NU'DAQ
Pahk! We have surrendered what we
had for nothing.
GUL OCETT
You are remarkably short-sighted,
Nu'Daq. We are closer to the
answer than we were.
PICARD
And I think we're very close,
indeed.
The others stare at him, puzzled.
NU'DAQ
How can that be? We have no idea
where to start looking for the
missing DNA fragment.
Picard begins to move about the room, trying to reason
this all out.
PICARD
This is a... jigsaw puzzle...
whose pieces have been scattered
across the galaxy.
(beat)
Doesn't it seem reasonable to
assume that the original designers
meant for someone to find this
puzzle -- why else would they put
the pieces in our DNA?
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT FOUR 51A.
42 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD (Cont'd)
(beat)
And doesn't that in turn suggest
that they would try to make it
easy for us to find all the
pieces? That there might be
some... pattern to their
distribution?
BEVERLY
If that's so... our computer might
be able to find that pattern.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 52.
42 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
Doctor, program the computer to
analyze the distribution pattern
of the pieces we have, correcting
for changes in star configurations
over four billion years... and
extrapolate for the missing piece.
BEVERLY
That'll take me a while to set
up... and a few hours more to
process.
Picard turns to the aliens.
PICARD
If you wish, you may stay on board
while we wait.
NU'DAQ
I intend to.
The Cardassian nods, indicating her intention as well.
43 INT. TEN FORWARD
Data is sitting at a table, working on a PADD. The
Klingon Captain steps up to him.
NU'DAQ
Good evening, Commander Data.
DATA
Hello, Captain.
NU'DAQ
Is there any word yet on the
missing fragment?
DATA
The computer is processing the
data. I will be notified as soon
as there is any information.
The Klingon smiles, and, without being invited, sits
opposite Data.
NU'DAQ
(continuing)
Commander, your reputation for...
physical strength is known even in
the Klingon Empire.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 53.
43 CONTINUED: (2)
NU'DAQ
You are familiar with the B'aht
Qul challenge?
DATA
I am familiar with many Klingon
rituals -- including the B'aht
Qul.
The Klingon smiles -- his still poised arm continues to
offer the challenge. A beat, Data calmly locks hands
with him. They hold position.
NU'DAQ
(counting in Klingon)
Wa'... Cha'... Wej --
Data puts him down without the slightest strain.
NU'DAQ
(amazed)
Maw' tok.
Data casually goes back to his PADD. The Klingon
stares at him for a beat, scowls, then violently lashes
forward with his headplate -- smashing right into
Data's forehead. Data doesn't even budge -- the
Klingon reels backwards, dazed.
DATA
(in explanation)
My upper spinal support is a polyalloy
designed for extreme stress.
My skull is composed of cortenide
and duranium.
Data looks back down at the PADD. The Klingon
recovers. He smiles, as if the ice has now been
broken.
NU'DAQ
I understand your intellectual
prowess is equally impressive.
Data glances up as the Klingon leans forward
conspiratorially, speaks almost in a whisper.
NU'DAQ
(continuing)
If I were to learn the results of
the computer search before the
others... It would give the
Klingon Empire a strategic
advantage.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FOUR 54.
43 CONTINUED: (3)
He stares with suggestion at the android.
NU'DAQ
(continuing)
A... being of your abilities would
go far in the Empire...
Data thinks for a moment. Then answers matter-of-factly.
DATA
You are attempting to bribe me.
The Klingon whips around toward the other tables, where
nearby patrons have overheard Data. The Klingon gives
them a toothy grin, then turns back to Data.
NU'DAQ
Not at all.
DATA
You suggested a plan that would
work to your advantage, one that
I would be capable of executing.
You then implied a reward.
Clearly --
NU'DAQ
... Commander, never mind.
The Klingon stands, beaten on all counts. He leaves
the table. OFF Data as he innocently goes back to his
work...
44 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is going about his standard work routine. As he
passes a console something catches his eye.
GEORDI
(puzzled)
What's this?
He goes to the console, punches in some commands, is
still puzzled by the result on the readout.
GEORDI
(to computer)
Computer, perform a level three
diagnostic on the primary
defensive systems...
Geordi taps his COM.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT FOUR 55.
44 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(to COM)
La Forge to Captain Picard...
PICARD'S COM VOICE
What is it, Geordi?
GEORDI
(to COM)
You might want to come down here,
sir. I found something... you
should see.
45 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Klingon and two Cardassian ships are close by.
46 INT. LAB
Picard and the Klingon and Cardassian Captains are
watching the Viewscreen as Data and Beverly stand near
the console.
DATA
The computer has completed its
analysis.
47 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
A map of our galactic neighborhood highlights two dozen
evenly spaced stars -- which form an image closely
resembling the design of the computer "program" formed
by the DNA fragments.
BEVERLY
The computer was able to
extrapolate this geometric pattern
based on the distribution of the
fragments.
NU'DAQ
The same shape as the program...
BEVERLY
Computer, highlight the missing
section of the pattern.
One section of the design is suddenly highlighted.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT FOUR 55A-56
47 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(indicates section)
The missing DNA fragment should be
in this system.
DATA
(reading screen)
That star is in sector two-one-four-five-nine.
(beat)
The Rahm-Izad system.
Everyone reacts. The Cardassian suddenly
DEMATERIALIZES in a beam-out, catching everyone by
surprise.
48 EXT. SPACE - THE CARDASSIAN SHIPS (OPTICAL)
Simultaneously fire point blank at the Enterprise and
Klingon ship. The ships seem completely at their
mercy. The firing continues.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 57.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
49 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (CONTINUOUS) (OPTICAL)
The Cardassians continue to fire on the Enterprise and
the Klingon ship.
50 INT. BRIDGE
Riker is in the command chair and Worf at tactical, the
Ensign at the CONN. They seem unusually calm.
WORF
Direct hit on our port nacelle.
The ship rocks a little.
WORF
(continuing)
They are powering for another
volley.
RIKER
Let's make it look good. Ensign,
release the inertial dampers.
The Ensign complies.
WORF
They are firing...
This time, the ship rocks violently.
51 EXT. SPACE - THE CARDASSIAN SHIPS (OPTICAL)
Stop firing at the Enterprise and take off -- leaving
the Klingon ship and the Enterprise apparently
crippled.
52 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Data, Beverly and Nu'Daq ENTER from the
Turbolift. They too seem calm.
PICARD
Report, Number One.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/08/93 - ACT FIVE 58.
52 CONTINUED:
RIKER
The power boost to the structural
integrity field protected the
nacelles. We used the inertial
dampers to simulate a complete
shield failure.
NU'DAQ
It is fortunate that your Engineer
discovered Gul Ocett's attempt to
tamper with your defensive
systems.
(touches COM)
Maht-h'a. Status.
KLINGON VOICE
Minor damage to starboard nacelle.
We will be operational in less
than one hour.
NU'DAQ
(to COM; furious)
What? You incompetent Toh-pah.
You were supposed to be prepared.
WORF
(off instruments)
The Cardassian vessels have set a
course for Rahm-Izad.
PICARD
It's not going to take them very
long to realize that Rahm-Izad is
the wrong planet.
(to Nu'Daq)
You're welcome to join us,
Captain.
NU'DAQ
(grumbling)
I will... go with you.
Picard nods, turns to the CONN.
PICARD
Ensign, plot a course to the
Vilmoran System. Warp nine.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 59.
52 CONTINUED: (2)
OFF the excitement of the chase...
53 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
speeding across space at maximum warp.
54 INT. BRIDGE
Riker, Data and Geordi. Geordi is filling in for Worf
at Tactical.
RIKER
Take us out of warp.
The Ensign works the CONN.
DATA
(off console)
I am scanning all seven planets in
the Vilmoran system -- none
appears to support life.
Everyone reacts.
RIKER
How could that be? The
Professor's data depends on --
DATA
(off console)
...Correction. The second planet
shows evidence of an ancient
ocean, now dry.
GEORDI
It once supported life.
DATA
Yes. And it still may, in a
limited fashion not detectable by
our long range sensors.
RIKER
Ensign, lay in a course, full
impulse.
The Ensign quickly works her panel.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/08/93 - ACT FIVE 60.
54 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(to COM)
Riker to Transporter Room One.
55 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
Picard, Worf, the Klingon Captain and Beverly are
waiting. Picard carries a small COMPUTER-LIKE DEVICE;
Beverly has a TRICORDER and a palm-sized SAMPLING
INSTRUMENT.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
(continuing)
We've located a planet that may
still support life. We'll know in
a minute.
PICARD
Any sign of the Cardassians?
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Not yet. But I don't know how
long it'll stay that way.
PICARD
(to COM)
Acknowledged.
Worf and Nu'Daq both pull out their weapons, keeping
them at the ready as everyone moves to the Transporter
pads.
56 INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Riker, Data, and Geordi are facing the Viewscreen,
which shows a barren, whitened planet.
DATA
(off instruments)
I am reading a small pocket of
vegetative life -- a primitive
lichen growing in a fossilized
seabed.
RIKER
(to COM)
Transporter Room One -- I'm
programming the coordinates.
Stand-by.
Riker works the console.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 60A.
57 EXT. PLANET SURFACE - DAY (OPTICAL)
A dry, cracked, ancient seabed. Picard, Beverly, Worf
and Nu'Daq suddenly MATERIALIZE. They spread out to
search as Beverly quickly scans with her tricorder.
BEVERLY
There.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 61.
57 CONTINUED:
She indicates a rockface on the other side of the
seabed, its surface mottled by a bright yellow-red-green
lichen.
As they head for it --
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Captain, we've got company. I'm
ready to pull you out of there.
PICARD
(touches COM)
Wait for my order, Number One.
Gul Ocett and a CARDASSIAN GUARD MATERIALIZE right in
front of the rockface. Gul Ocett has her small
computer and a SAMPLING DEVICE hanging from her belt.
Both are aiming weapons at the Away Team.
The team stops in their tracks -- the Klingons both
have their phasers raised.
NU'DAQ
You dishonorable pah-tak...
GUL OCETT
We can exchange insults some other
time, perhaps. I'm a little busy
right now...
Gul Ocett takes the sampling device off her belt and
starts edging backwards toward the lichen-covered
rockface...
58 OMITTED
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT FIVE 62.
59 EXT. PLANET SURFACE
As before, the Cardassians between the Away team and
the rockface, Gul Ocett slowly backing toward it.
FOUR ROMULANS suddenly step out from behind the rocks,
weapons raised -- two have heavy-duty DISRUPTOR RIFLES.
The ROMULAN CAPTAIN smiles.
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
It's been quite a chase, hasn't
it, my friends?
The others just look at him, still taken aback by the
surprise arrival.
NU'DAQ
(stunned)
How... ?
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
We intercepted several communiques
between the Yridians and
Cardassia. My ship was watching
under cloak when Professor Galen's
shuttle was attacked.
PICARD
You've been shadowing us ever
since.
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
And now, the reward...
(to Gul Ocett)
Step clear, please.
With superior firepower, the Romulans have the edge.
But Gul Ocett suddenly turns her weapon toward the
lichen-covered rocks.
GUL OCETT
I'll destroy this entire
rockface... And all traces of DNA
with it.
The Romulans freeze. The Romulan Captain loses his
smile.
GUL OCETT
(continuing)
You'll go back to Romulus emptyhanded.
Your superiors will be
quite pleased.
It's a standoff.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 63.
60 ON PICARD AND BEVERLY
The are standing off to one side, away from the
standoff. As the Romulan, Cardassian, and Klingon
continue their squabble in the b. g....
Picard looks down at the dirt beneath his feet.
60A INSERT - THE SEABED
There are imprints and fossilized remains of vegetation --
it should look like a "mold" of a leaf or fern. There
should be a hint of greenish-brown coloring left on the
imprints.
60B RESUME SCENE
PICARD
(sotto)
The seabed... it may be only
partially fossilized... it could
still contain organic material.
Beverly nods slowly. She cautiously crouches down,
careful not to draw anyone's attention and scrapes at
the FOSSILIZED SEA BED with her sampling device...
61 THE SCENE
THIS SCENE IS THE BACKGROUND DIALOGUE TO BE PLAYED
UNDER SCENES 60 AND 62.
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
(to Gul Ocett)
Perhaps we can compromise... Let
us have the gene code. And the
Romulans and the Cardassians will
share the result.
The Cardassian considers.
GUL OCETT
What's to stop you from killing me
as soon as I acquiesce?
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
You have my word.
The Klingon Captain scowls.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 63A.
61 CONTINUED:
NU'DAQ
Etched in stone, no doubt.
(beat)
No terms. There will be no deals
as long as I'm still alive.
The Romulan Captain motions to his men -- all of them
aim their disruptors directly at the Klingon.
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
Then I have only one recourse...
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/08/93 - ACT FIVE 64.
62 ON PICARD AND BEVERLY
Picard is working the small computer -- Beverly's
sampling device is now attached to it. Picard reacts
to what he sees on the tiny screen.
PICARD
(to Beverly, sotto)
The program has activated...
(beat)
I think it's reconfiguring the
tricorder... it's modifying the
emitter diode to project
something...
63 THE SCENE
The Romulans have their four weapons trained on the
Klingon Captain, but he's not budging. A beat, then
Worf steps up next to the Klingon, phaser ready.
Another beat, Gul Ocett and her Cardassian guard take
a couple of steps, adding their weapons to the side of
the Romulans. It is now six against two.
The Klingon Captain smiles.
NU'DAQ
(to Worf)
We die together, Brother. Tash-Koh-Tah.
Nu'Daq is an instant away from firing.
64 PICARD
activates a control on the small computer, aiming it
toward the middle of the fray.
65 THE SCENE (OPTICAL)
Picard's computer SUDDENLY PROJECTS A HOLOGRAM directly
into the middle of the scene. It is a HUMANOID -- in
fact, one of the coolest humanoids we've ever seen,
with a face wise and tragic and light-hearted all at
once. It appears as if the flesh is life-like.
Everyone reacts, staring with amazement as it addresses
them.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 64A.
65 CONTINUED:
HUMANOID
You are wondering who we are; why
we have done this; how it has come
that I stand before you, the image
of a being from so long ago.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 65.
65 CONTINUED: (2)
HUMANOID (Cont'd)
(beat)
Life evolved on my planet before
all others in this part of the
galaxy. We left our world,
explored the stars, and found none
like ourselves. We were alone.
Our civilization thrived for ages.
But what is the life of one race,
compared to the vast stretches of
cosmic time? We knew that someday
we would be gone. And that
nothing of us would survive. So
we left you.
Everyone reacts.
HUMANOID
(continuing)
Our scientists seeded the
primordial oceans of many worlds,
where life was in its infancy.
These seed codes directed your
evolution toward a physical form
resembling ours -- this body you
see before you.
The Humanoid opens her arms as if to indicate herself.
HUMANOID
(continuing)
Which is, of course, shaped as
yours is shaped. For you are the
end result. The seed codes also
contained this message, which we
scattered in fragments on many
different worlds. It was our hope
that you would have to come
together in cooperation and
fellowship in order to activate
this message. And if you can see
and hear me, our hope has been
fulfilled.
After a few uneasy, guilty glances -- they know it
wasn't so peaceful and cooperative.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/08/93 - ACT FIVE 66.
65 CONTINUED: (3)
HUMANOID
(continuing)
You are... a monument. Not to our
greatness, but to our existence.
That was our wish. That you too
would know life, and would keep
alive our memory. There is
something of us in each of you,
and so, something of you in each
other.
A long pause. The Humanoid has a look of both joy and
deep sadness.
HUMANOID
(continuing)
Remember us...
The hologram disappears. A long, silent beat.
Everyone stares at each other, lowering their
weapons... There's a sense that something magical could
take place, a melting away of all differences and
conflicts in a new spirit of fellowship --
NU'DAQ
(livid)
That is all?
The moment is shattered.
NU'DAQ
(continuing)
If she were not dead, I would kill
her.
Gul Ocett turns toward the Klingon Captain.
GUL OCETT
The very notion. That Cardassians
could have anything in common with
Klingons.
(beat)
It turns my stomach.
Nu'Daq shoots her a dirty look. Everyone starts
contacting their respective ships.
PICARD
(touches COM)
Picard to Enterprise. Away Team
is ready to beam up.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/09/93 - ACT FIVE 67.
65 CONTINUED: (4)
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
Picard and Beverly exchange a somewhat weary look...
66 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE
still in orbit above the planet.
PICARD (V. O.
Captain's log, Stardate 46735.2.
Our frequent use of high warp over
the last few days has overextended
the propulsion systems. We are
finishing minor repairs before
returning to Federation territory.
67 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS
Picard and Beverly are at the end of their morning tea;
musing about the last few days.
BEVERLY
It's a shame Professor Galen
wasn't able to see the end result
of his search...
PICARD
I don't know of anyone who would
have appreciated it more.
BEVERLY
If it hadn't been for you, Jean-Luc,
his dream to solve that
puzzle would never have been
realized. You gave him a
wonderful legacy...
PICARD
It would've been a more fitting
legacy if the message had not
fallen on deaf ears.
A reaction, clearly, that wasn't present on the
planet's surface. Beverly shrugs a wan smile.
BEVERLY
You never know.
She rises.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 67A.
67 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
I have to get this day started.
Picard stands in a gentlemanly gesture.
PICARD
Both of us.
BEVERLY
See you this afternoon.
Beverly heads for the door, it opens and she disappears
into the hallway. Picard sits back down for a moment.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - REV. 02/05/93 - ACT FIVE 68.
67 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Riker to Captain Picard. Incoming
transmission from the Romulan
command ship.
Picard reacts, puzzled.
PICARD
(to COM)
Put it through.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
68 INCLUDE PICARD'S VIEWSCREEN
as he turns toward it. The face of the Romulan Captain
appears.
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
Captain, my ships are leaving
orbit for Romulan space.
(beat)
Until our next encounter...
Picard is surprised by the overture.
PICARD
Until then.
The Romulan pauses.
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
It would seem that we are not
completely dissimilar after all...
in our hopes or in our fears...
Picard nods.
PICARD
Yes.
A long moment as the Romulan struggles with the words.
ROMULAN CAPTAIN
Well, then. Perhaps one day...
The Romulan seems to have gone as far as he can go with
this sentiment.
STAR TREK: "The Chase" - 02/04/93 - ACT FIVE 69.
68 CONTINUED:
PICARD
One day...
The Romulan Captain nods. He turns toward an offscreen
underling -- the transmission ends.
Picard turns back to his tea. He takes a sip, sets it
down, stares into space. OFF his quiet smile...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END