Star Trek - Phase II - in Thy Image - 1977-10-20 - Rough Draft
Star Trek - Phase II - in Thy Image - 1977-10-20 - Rough Draft
Star Trek - Phase II - in Thy Image - 1977-10-20 - Rough Draft
Screenplay
By
Harold Livingston
Story
By
Alan Dean Foster
ROUGH DRAFT
October 20, 1977
FADE IN:
1
EXT. SPACE
2.
as it dies.
8
3.
9
CONTINUED:
9
BRANCH
Commander Branch.
MONITOR ROOM VOICE (MALE)
Our sensor drones have just monitored
a three-cruiser Klingon squadron
being wiped out. Within their own
boundaries...!
BRANCH
(reacts; cool)
How? Destroyed by what?
MONITOR ROOM VOICE
Unknown. The last Klingon
communication called it... quote
'huge, incredibly powerful.' We
have been able to track its magnetic
field, get a course from that.
Well...?
BRANCH
MONITOR ROOM VOICE
It's headed toward Earth.
10
10
11
4.
11
CONTINUED:
11
student. And animals, once considered "wild," lope about -a child rides atop a magnificent antlered deer. Life in
this century is very pleasant. Now the CAMERA FINDS:
12
12
13
KIRK
14
A FEW TEEN-AGERS
clustered around two handsome cheetahs. The paw of one
of the cheetahs is being spray bandaged (23rd century
medicine style) by a MAN whose BACK IS TO US. The Man
uses various instruments from an over-shoulder bag.
From the rear we can SEE only the Man's civilian clothes,
and his slightly longish hair.
An expression of recognition flits across Kirk's face;
he approaches the group.
15
5.
16
16
as we can SEE the Man just finishing the big cat's paw,
addressing the teen-agers.
MAN
Well... if one of you takes care of
that paw, it'll be good as new in a
week.
The teen-agers (and the cheetahs) romp off. The Man
begins packing away his instruments. Kirk steps a little
closer.
KIRK
Those cheetahs never pay their bills,
Doctor.
The Man laughs, turns fully INTO THE CAMERA.
SEE the Man is:
17
And We
MCCOY
17
(CONTINUED)
6.
17
CONTINUED:
17
KIRK
They call you what?
doctor'?
The 'animal
MCCOY
(nods)
The only sensible patients I've
ever had.
KIRK
You could always heal anything,
Bones. Remember... what did they
call it... the Horta? You patched
her up with silicone cement.
McCoy has closed his instrument bag, now slung it over
his shoulder, and turned to face Kirk.
MCCOY
What I remember, Jim... are the
friends who couldn't be put back
together. For five years... so
many of them.
And he starts walking.
catches up.
18
18
7.
18
CONTINUED:
18
KIRK
Because I'm not a captain now.
Admirals do other things.
KIRK
MCCOY
I wish I were. But I learned to
know you too well.
At that instant we HEAR the familiar COMMUNICATOR SIGNAL.
Kirk stops, glances wryly at McCoy, now produces an oldstyle hand communicator, opens it, AD LIBS into the
speaker: "Kirk here..."
COMMUNICATOR VOICE
Admiral Kirk, Admiral Nogura requests
your presence at a priority one
staff conference. Urgent.
Immediately, if possible.
Kirk gives McCoy a look, then speaks into his
communicator.
KIRK
Kirk, affirmative. Lock in, one to
beam back.
Locking in.
COMMUNICATOR VOICE
Stand by.
KIRK
(to McCoy)
Bet you a dinner this isn't that
urgent.
MCCOY
(smiles; shakes head)
I'm on my way again.
(CONTINUED)
8.
18
CONTINUED: (2)
18
KIRK
If I promise no more 'recruiting'...?
MCCOY
You wouldn't know how to stop.
Interrupted by the SHIMMER OF THE TRANSPORTER EFFECT -and in an instant Kirk has dematerialized and is gone.
McCoy stands watching the spot, entire gamut of emotions
evident on his face.
19
19
SCOTT
20
(CONTINUED)
9.
20
CONTINUED:
20
NOGURA
(continuing)
Forgive me, Admiral... Commander.
What you'll learn here is far from
pleasant.
21
22
10.
22
CONTINUED:
22
Big ones.
Koro class.
SCOTT
CARSON
Their newest and best.
LEBUTU
(nodding)
They've spotted something just out
of our drone's camera range.
(indicates)
Now watch!
On the viewing screen the sudden turbulent whiplash of
energy from OUT OF FRAME, destroying one of the Klingon
cruisers.
23
23
SCOTT
LEBUTU
They're firing back now.
24
11.
25
25
26
27
(CONTINUED)
12.
27
CONTINUED:
27
NOGURA
(continuing)
...as you see, all other UFP vessels
are more than nine days away. The
sole Exception -- and the only one
in position to intercept -- is the
Aswan.
KIRK
Sir, the Aswan is a light cruiser:
her weapons and defense systems
have less than half the power the
Klingons had.
NOGURA
There is another vessel that could
back up the Aswan. A vessel with
stronger force-fields and firepower
than all three Klingon cruisers
combined.
13.
27
CONTINUED: (2)
27
KIRK
NOGURA
He's never commanded more than a
light cruiser.
(CONTINUED)
14.
27
CONTINUED: (3)
27
KIRK
He's the next qualified available.
NOGURA
Kirk! Who is the best qualified
available?
28
EMPHASIZING KIRK
28
29
29
30
31
32
(CONTINUED)
15.
32
CONTINUED:
32
KIRK
33
I'll get a
SCOTT
She's more beautiful than ever,
sir.
(smiles)
Show me.
KIRK
OBSERVATION POD
34
35
36
16.
37
THE ENTERPRISE
37
First the left engine, then the curve of the hull saucer,
and then the entire hull -- and then, finally, the whole
ship.
38
ON KIRK
38
39
40
INT. POD
41
(CONTINUED)
17.
41
CONTINUED:
41
42
18.
42
CONTINUED:
42
43
INT. ELEVATOR
44
as Kirk enters, and the doors close, and Kirk calls out
his destination:
Bridge ...
KIRK
The turbo-elevator begins going up. Kirk stands, grim,
a million thoughts whirling through his brain. Suddenly,
the elevator comes to a jarring, SCREECHING halt.
45
45
(CONTINUED)
19.
45
CONTINUED:
45
KIRK
Quite all right... Doctor. It is
Doctor Chapel now, isn't it?
20.
46
46
47
48
21.
48
CONTINUED:
48
(puzzled)
Aye, sir.
49
SULU
49
50
Transporter
look in
the places
looking
NOGURA
...is always accompanied by far
more ceremony than can be offered
in the recommissioning of this vessel
today. Indeed, we must regret even
these few brief moments. With the
aid of whatever Providence guides
we sailors and our ships, we will
one day repair this oversight.
(pauses, then)
By order of Starfleet Command, this
Federation vessel... United Spaceship
Enterprise is declared now fully
commissioned and in service.
22.
51
51
52
53
23.
53
CONTINUED:
53
54
INT. BRIDGE
55
ILIA
It's all right.
(CONTINUED)
24.
55
CONTINUED:
55
SULU
(flustered)
Go ahead? I'm not sure I know what
you mean.
ILIA
Mr. Sulu, I am a normal Deltan female
and I can sense it whenever a man
wants to touch me. There's no need
to repress it so long as you are
aware that I am sworn to celibacy
for the duration of the mission.
SULU
She reaches again to his face in final punctuation as
she smiles beautifully and answers his unasked question:
ILIA
We can calm as well as stimulate...
With that, the subject closes and both return to their
work at full efficiency. Behind them, the turbo lift
doors open and Kirk emerges uncertainly onto the outer
bridge platform.
25.
56
56
ANOTHER ANGLE
57
ILIA
58
26.
59
INT. ELEVATOR
59
60
61
27.
62
INT. BRIDGE
62
63
(CONTINUED)
28.
63
CONTINUED:
63
KIRK
(conciliatorily)
Look, Will, I know you were slated
for your own command -- and you'll
have it. But right now let's
concentrate on the Enterprise.
DECKER
Whatever you say, sir.
Decker glances
64
SCOTT
And Scott hurries around the console to greet McCoy
with an affectionate embrace, AD LIBBING "...I canna
(CONTINUED)
65
29.
65
CONTINUED:
65
XON
Lieutenant Junior Grade Xon, Science
Officer, requesting permission to
come aboard, sir.
No one pays him the scantest attention. Kirk has stepped
over to McCoy, peers at him, shakes his head in utter
disbelief.
MCCOY
Chief Medical Officer McCoy
requesting permission to come aboard,
sir.
KIRK
(incredulous)
Bones... how did -- ? Is this some
kind of joke...?
MCCOY
(flat, tight)
No joke, Captain, sir. I'm sure a
copy of my orders is already in the
personnel computer.
XON
Lieutenant Junior Grade Xon,
requesting permission to come aboard,
sir.
KIRK
(to Xon)
Yes, yes, permission granted.
(to McCoy)
What happened?
MCCOY
(flat, tight)
What happened, Captain, sir, was
that our revered Chief of Staff,
Admiral Nogura himself, invoked a
little known -- and seldom used -reserve activation clause.
(very tight)
...in simpler language, Captain,
sir, I've been drafted...!
Kirk is so nonplussed he cannot find words -- can only
laugh; and he glances at Scott, who also is unable to
conceal a delighted smile.
(CONTINUED)
30.
65
CONTINUED: (2)
65
XON
Sir, I am Lieutenant Junior Grade
Xon -MCCOY
(hard, to Xon)
-- Yes, Lieutenant Junior Grade
Xon, we can smell you.
KIRK
Where were you that you got into
such a foul state, Lieutenant?
XON
The high Gobi desert. In a
meditative monastery, sir.
KIRK
Doing what? Rolling in yak droppings?
XON
Preparing myself for duty, sir. In
the event a shipboard assignment
should occur.
KIRK
You're a Lieutenant!
had shipboard duty?
You've never
MCCOY
Jim, I... I think he was graduated
a Lieutenant.
(to Xon)
How long ago?
XON
Eighty-one days ago, sir.
KIRK
(to McCoy)
He's yours then. Medical Officer.
MCCOY
(shakes head)
He's yours. Vulcans also graduate
as Lieutenants.
66
66
Then:
KIRK
Please tell me you've got rounded
ears, Lieutenant.
(CONTINUED)
31.
66
CONTINUED:
66
XON
I see no reason to being our
acquaintance with an insult, sir.
67
67
INT. BRIDGE
68
SCOTT'S VOICE
KIRK
Mr. Scott, are main engines ready
yet?
32.
69
69
SCOTT
KIRK'S VOICE
(over intercom)
Engage.
Yes, sir!
SCOTT
70
Sulu
SULU
All systems ready, sir.
KIRK
Navigator...
(as Ilia turns to him)
Lay in an interception course:
coordinates 953 point 2, mark 6.
(to Sulu)
Helmsman -Kirk hesitates just an instant, seems to hold his breath -and so does everyone else. And then:
KIRK
(continuing)
All ahead, warp point five.
33.
71
71
INT. BRIDGE
72
All systems
KIRK
Thank you, Mr. Sulu.
Departure angle on the viewer, please.
73
73
as, instantly, on the viewing screen we SEE the cloudlaced image of Earth (OPTICAL). A ball of blue and
white, smaller and smaller before our eyes -- and,
quickly, dwindling to but a point of light. After
another moment:
Normal angle.
KIRK
And, instantly, on the viewer we SEE the familiar STAR
TRAVEL EFFECT. Kirk flicks on his intercom:
KIRK
(continuing)
Engineering...
Engineering.
SCOTT'S VOICE
KIRK
She feels good, Scottie.
SCOTT'S VOICE
That she does, sir. She's a beauty.
(CONTINUED)
34.
73
CONTINUED:
73
KIRK
(a beat)
All right, Mr. Scott, let's go into
Warp Drive. Ahead, Warp One.
SCOTT'S VOICE
(exhilarated)
Accelerating to Warp One, sir.
74
INT. BRIDGE
75
SULU
Everyone suddenly relaxes, grins.
chair, addresses Uhura:
KIRK
Lieutenant Uhura, establish a relay
frequency between Starfleet Command
and the Aswan. Primary reception
to us, please.
UHURA
(gently)
Sir, it's Lieutenant Commander Uhura -KIRK
I beg your pardon... Commander...
An apologetic smile.
UHURA
It's quite all right, Captain.
35.
76
76
as she smiles the same apologetic smile back at him -and then suddenly the smile freezes. She is peering
O.S. And Decker, too, is staring O.S. It is as though
neither can believe their eyes.
77
77
78
79
36.
79
CONTINUED:
79
DECKER
It took me more than an hour to
assemble them.
Xon looks at Decker squarely, unblinkingly.
XON
Sir, to function efficiently as
Science Officer requires my intimate
familiarity with each circuit in
this system. To achieve this, sir,
requires a complete prewarp
programming of my own.
DECKER
Are you trying to tell me that all
that work was for nothing?
XON
That is the logical conclusion,
sir. That is not to say your efforts
are unappreciated -- but it was a
waste.
Decker, nonplussed at Xon's aplomb, struggles to control
his temper. Xon indicates Decker's hand, which still
blocks Xon's.
(CONTINUED)
37.
79
CONTINUED: (2)
(politely)
My hand, sir.
80
79
XON
80
ANGLE ON UHURA
81
(CONTINUED)
38.
81
CONTINUED:
81
KIRK
I'll be in my quarters --
The words are not out of Kirk's mouth when all at once
the ALARM SIREN SOUNDS and the computerized warning
VOICE SPEAKS:
COMPUTER VOICE
(terse, flat)
Collision alert...! Collision
alert...!
Kirk has whirled back to the command center, stands
behind Decker, who sits in the chair.
KIRK
Main viewer...!
(to Xon)
Sensor reading...
XON
Navigational deflectors and scanners
are inoperative, Captain.
KIRK
(disbelieving)
What?!
Meanwhile, the viewer, we SEE a HUGE ASTEROID: it is
relatively small when we first SEE it, but it grows
increasingly large. (NOTE: Throughout this sequence,
the SIREN will continue and the collision warning VOICE
will continue: "Collision alert...! Collision alert...!"
etc., etc.)
82
82
FOLLOW CHEKOV
83
Full
(CONTINUED)
84
39.
84
CONTINUED:
84
Hard to port...
DECKER
SULU
The helm is not responding...!
DECKER
Manual override...!
As Sulu touches the controls, Kirk steps forward and
knocks Sulu's hand away:
KIRK
Belay that order; activate the main
phasers.
(to Decker)
We'll blast it out of the way.
(to Chekov)
Lock on and prepare to fire!
CHEKOV
Main phasers ready. Target locked
on.
On the screen the asteroid LOOMS LARGER AND LARGER,
directly in the ship's path.
Fire...!
85
KIRK
85
INT. BRIDGE
86
(CONTINUED)
40.
86
CONTINUED:
86
CHEKOV (CONT'D)
I'll have photon torpedoes armed
and ready in a minute, sir. They're
operational.
KIRK
Mr. Chekov, we don't have a minute.
KIRK
CHEKOV
No damage reported, sir.
SULU
The helm is responding now, sir.
CAMERA PANS across to Xon.
KIRK
Full report, Mr. Xon.
XON
All systems are now normal, sir.
(CONTINUED)
87
41.
87
CONTINUED:
87
KIRK
Mr. Xon, why weren't they normal 30
seconds ago?
XON
(flat, unemotional)
The phaser and directional control
couplings were disengaged from the
main computer. The same was true
of the Navigational scanners.
UHURA
XON
It was the most efficient way of
doing it. By odds of slightly over
eleven thousand to one, we should
not have encountered that emergency.
Kirk is so horrified he is speechless.
XON
(continuing)
Yes, Captain, I was in error to
even risk those odds. I presume it
has occurred to you that Mr. Spock
would not have made that same error.
(CONTINUED)
42.
87
CONTINUED: (2)
87
KIRK
(eyes Xon; then)
That is not a subject it is wise
for you to raise, Lieutenant.
XON
Your human emotions make comparisons
between myself and Mr. Spock
inevitable, Captain. I merely wanted
to assure you that this does not
trouble me.
KIRK
I'm delighted you're not troubled,
Mr. Xon. Because I am troubled,
very troubled...
XON
(finishing sentence)
... by the errors I've made. It's
quite natural you are troubled,
sir. Just as it is expected I would
make a few errors. But my errors
will be few and will rapidly diminish
to a near zero level.
Xon's calm and logical recitation has Kirk near an angry
outburst. He controls himself with difficulty, turns
to exit bridge.
DECKER
Are you leaving me the conn, sir?
KIRK
(snaps)
I gave it to you earlier, Mr. Decker.
DECKER
You took it back, sir, when you
overruled my order to the helm.
Kirk now gives Decker the same kind of look he's been
giving Xon.
KIRK
I see. Then perhaps you'll join me
in my cabin, Commander?
DECKER
As you wish, sir.
KIRK
Lieutenant Ilia, you have the conn.
(CONTINUED)
43.
87
CONTINUED: (3)
87
UHURA
Kirk and Decker board the elevator and the doors snap
closed.
88
88
(CONTINUED)
44.
88
CONTINUED:
88
MCCOY
Oh? It's too personal even for a
physician?
DECKER
It's a... a ship's command matter,
Doctor.
MCCOY
Excellent!
(indicates)
Doctor Chapel is an expert in sociopsychology.
DECKER
(angrily, to Kirk)
Captain, I object to this casual,
mocking approach to a matter I
consider extremely important...
perhaps even critical to the ship's
safety.
KIRK
Which is precisely why I invited
medical here. Any dispute between
first and second in command is very
much their business.
89
89
KIRK
DECKER
The simple course change I ordered
would have put us well out of the
asteroid's path.
KIRK
Agreed, if this were a light scout
cruiser of the type you're accustomed
to maneuvering. With our automatic
directional control out, converting
to manual could have been a fatal
delay.
(CONTINUED)
45.
89
CONTINUED:
89
DECKER
If I recall, sir, there was some
delay engaging manual phaser fire.
And that was very nearly fatal,
too.
KIRK
We didn't know the phasers were
out.
DECKER
I beg your pardon, Captain, but it
is reasonable to assume that if
automatic directional control is
inoperative, then automatic weapons
control also might be -- as it was.
I should
DECKER
(stiff)
May I be excused, sir?
KIRK
In just a moment, Commander.
(turning to McCoy)
Which is one reason I wanted you in
on this. I've been almost two years
out of that center seat. I'm almost
certainly stale. Plus...
Kirk takes a moment to select his next words.
Then:
KIRK
(continuing)
...plus, I had no idea how much
I've missed being there. I never
expected to sit there again. It...
It means so much to me that it may
affect my judgment.
The last of this has been said to Chapel who nods her
understanding of the psychological implications. Now
Kirk turns back to Decker.
KIRK
(continuing)
Therefore, you will continue to
closely monitor my command
performance and make regular reports
to Doctor McCoy. Also...
(CONTINUED)
46.
89
CONTINUED: (2)
89
DECKER
Sir! You can't be serious. If
you're suggesting I carry reports
about you to the Doctor...
KIRK
I'm not suggesting it, Commander.
I'm ordering it.
DECKER
(nonplussed;
interrupting)
But Captain, it's also possible
that I've been overcritical of you.
I was transferred away from my own
command...
KIRK
(interrupting)
Which is why you will also make
regular reports to Doctor Chapel
assessing your own performance and
attitude.
DECKER
Yes, sir.
(waits, looking around)
And that's it, sir? I...
(openly)
...I had no idea things were handled
this way...
MCCOY
It isn't on all vessels.
DECKER
(offering hand to
Kirk)
I'm happy to be on this one, Captain.
MCCOY
While we're here, any comments on
the young Vulcan?
CHAPEL
(warmly)
He is sweet, isn't he!
KIRK
(to Decker)
Our medical staff is not without
its flaws and blind spots -(to McCoy)
Let's see how fast he comes around.
(CONTINUED)
47.
89
CONTINUED: (3)
89
DECKER
Meanwhile, he could kill us, sir.
KIRK
(smiles)
As you pointed out, so could 1.
At that instant the intercom flashes red, and the AUDIO
SIGNAL is HEARD.
UHURA'S VOICE
Communications to Captain Kirk...
KIRK
(into intercom)
Kirk here.
UHURA'S VOICE
Sir, we have viewer contact with
the Aswan.
KIRK
I'm on my way...
(starts out, stops
suddenly to face
McCoy)
I don't think you ever forget how -And he leaves.
bemusedly.
90
90
(CONTINUED)
48.
90
CONTINUED:
90
KIRK
Have you attempted communication?
CORYELL
On all hailing frequencies, Captain.
No response.
KIRK
Keep this channel open, Commander,
and keep me informed.
CORYELL
Yes, sir...
(abruptly)
We have the visual.
KIRK
ILIA
KIRK
Adjust your course for an intercept
along a tangential line from
coordinates 912 point 4, mark 3,
high quadrant.
ILIA
912 point 4, mark 3.
sir.
Adjusting,
KIRK
(to Sulu)
Increase to Warp 6.
SULU
Increasing to Warp 6.
(CONTINUED)
49.
90
CONTINUED: (2)
Mr. Xon...
Sir.
90
KIRK
XON
KIRK
Estimated time to IP...?
Xon glances into his hooded viewer, replies almost
immediately:
XON
68.2 hours, Captain, if we maintain
Warp 6
KIRK
(to Uhura)
Lt. Uhura, inform Starfleet Command
of the Aswan's probable destruction,
and that we are proceeding to PI at
optimum speed.
91
91
at Warp speed.
KIRK (V.O.)
Captain's Log, star date 7420.1.
Light Cruiser U.S.S. Aswan is gone.
Obliterated by a weapon we were
unable to identify or understand.
We also know nothing of whatever it
is that used that weapon. Our
forward sensor scans are being
absorbed by whatever object it is
that we are now about to intercept.
92
INT. BRIDGE
92
(CONTINUED)
50.
92
CONTINUED:
92
XON
Still none, sir.
(CONTINUED)
51.
92
CONTINUED: (2)
92
UHURA
The message was simulcast on all
frequencies, Captain, in all known
linguacodes. I'm repeating it now.
Again they wait -- and again, no response.
KIRK
Monitor it on a grade four sensor
level, Mr. Xon.
XON
(instantly)
I have, sir; there is a definite
sub-space null directly ahead. The
message is being received, sir.
ILIA
Visual contact in one minute and
twelve seconds, Captain.
KIRK
Forcefield screen?
SULU
Forcefield screens up and at full
power, sir.
KIRK
Also, full deflectors forward, Mr.
Sulu. And Sound a red alert. Battle
stations.
93
93
52.
93
CONTINUED:
93
CHEKOV
Weapons are on manual control,
Captain!
KIRK
(into intercom)
Engineering --
94
94
INT. BRIDGE
95
96
ILIA
Kirk turns to the viewer, and his expression is equally
incredulous.
97
97
53.
97
CONTINUED:
97
ILIA
(awed)
We're seeing it a full thirty seconds
before we should.
CHEKOV
(grim)
That is because of the size of it...!
The size.
98
99
54.
100
100
He's
SCOTT
Captain, with the deflector shields
up full, we're draining considerable
power -101
101
Kirk
KIRK
We can't risk lowering them, Scotty.
Not yet.
On the viewer we can SEE The alien completely. Now, in
its totality, it clearly emanates power and ominousness.
KIRK
(continuing)
Distance to object, Lieutenant Ilia?
ILIA
Point zero zero three two parsecs.
KIRK
Dimension interpolation, Mr. Xon.
102
102
(CONTINUED)
55.
102
CONTINUED:
102
DECKER
(dry)
I don't think he means to stop and
talk.
KIRK
(to Uhura)
Keep the hailing frequencies open,
Commander. Continue sending our
message...!
UHURA
Transmission is continuing, sir.
ILIA
Now one and one-half minutes away,
sir.
103
103
56.
104
104
105
SCOTT
106
107
57.
108
108
109
58.
110
110
(CONTINUED)
111
59.
111
CONTINUED:
111
CHEKOV
Captain, we're not going to return
their fire?
KIRK
Not if we're sane, we won't, Mister
Chekov.
112
112
113
114
60.
115
115
116
SCOTT
Ready for maximum warp, Captain...
The WHINE of the great ENGINES is LOUDER now than even
the terrible NOISE of the alien's phasers striking our
screens.
117
(CONTINUED)
117
61.
117
CONTINUED:
117
Now, helm!
KIRK
118
119
62.
120
120
INT. BRIDGE
121
KIRK
But then he realizes she, too, has collapsed. He looks
at Xon, who at that moment glances up from his viewer.
XON
Captain...! They did answer...!
Kirk manages to stagger to the Science Station where
Xon just now begins showing some signs of heat. But
not enough to disable him.
XON
(continuing)
I replayed Commander Uhura's
transmissions. The alien responded:
listen.
And Xon punches a button. We HEAR what can only be a
shrill BEEP.
XON
(continuing)
They responded on a frequency close
to one million megahertz -- far too
high for any human ear. Now
listen...
And Xon punches more buttons, and we HEAR again the
"BEEP" -- and then slower, so the "BEEP" seems stretched
out slightly, and then slower again. But with each
"BEEP" -- there is a momentary pause, and then another
"BEEP" that SOUNDS lower, less shrill.
(CONTINUED)
63.
121
CONTINUED:
121
XON
(continuing)
Each time we hailed them, Captain,
they responded. But not to any
language. To the lingua-code that
was computerized...
(totally focused on
his work despite all
that has gone on
around him)
Sir, they are responding not to any
life form aboard our vessel -- but
to the vessel itself...!
(as Kirk still does
not comprehend)
Captain, they are addressing the
USS Enterprise as a life form.
KIRK
(struggling to
understand)
They think the ship is a life form?
XON
Yes, sir, and with your permission
I will now send them a message asking
to break off hostilities...
(CONTINUED)
64.
121
CONTINUED: (2)
121
XON
The attack has ceased, sir.
122
122
123
INT. SICKBAY
124
125
65.
125
CONTINUED:
125
KIRK
You're suggesting that our computer
was communicating directly with the
alien?
XON
Yes, sir, and I have taken the
liberty of cutting off all external
transmission from the computer.
But I believe that a considerable
sum of information has already been
passed on.
DECKER
Run the tapes back and find out.
XON
I'm doing that now, but the
transmissions were at such ultrahigh
speed, it will take hours-perhaps
days-to decode them.
KIRK
There's a much faster way...
126
126
(CONTINUED)
127
66.
127
CONTINUED:
127
COMPUTER VOICE
Information provided upon request.
KIRK
Computer... why did you disseminate
classified information?
COMPUTER VOICE
It was requested.
The bald logic is too much for Kirk; he shakes his head
in more exasperation. Xon addresses the machine:
XON
Computer. Reply... how much
information did you provide
concerning the crew?
COMPUTER VOICE
Crew information was not requested.
128
128
Reply.
COMPUTER VOICE
Data unavailable.
DECKER
(wry, grim)
I guess it wasn't curious.
XON
A computer never is, sir...
(to computer)
Computer... why is the alien
traveling to Earth? Reply.
COMPUTER VOICE
Data unavailable.
KIRK
(almost angry)
Computer... you are ordered to
provide no further information to
the alien...!
And Xon switches off the computer, Kirk faces the others
grimly:
(CONTINUED)
67.
128
CONTINUED:
128
KIRK
(continuing)
Comment.
XON
In my opinion, sir, the computer
has corroborated my theory that the
alien considers any further
communication with us a waste of
his time.
CHEKOV
Then we must show him this is not
true.
KIRK
Yes, but for that we have to
communicate with him. How...?
DECKER
Sir, our weapons can't penetrate
its forcefield but...
(grimly)
...if we informed him we were ready
to turn our engines into a matterantimatter bomb, I think it would
realize that not even its forcefield
could withstand it. We'd get an
answer fast enough.
CHEKOV
Self-destruct? It may not realize
we can do that.
XON
You may be certain it understands
all our capabilities. In fact, it
no doubt considers the Enterprise
design quite simple and primitive
compared to its own technology.
DECKER
But not even that alien can withstand
a matter-anti-matter explosion of
the size we could generate.
(to Kirk)
It gives us a bluff it can't afford
to call.
129
129
(CONTINUED)
68.
129
CONTINUED:
129
KIRK
Gentlemen, since we're helpless for
at least twelve hours until full
power is restored, I suggest we use
that time for some needed rest.
(to Decker)
All divisions go to stand-by crews
only.
(wan smile)
We'll all do better with a few hours'
sleep.
CORRIDOR
130
69.
130
CONTINUED:
130
KIRK
What I intend doing is keeping this
vessel intact, and its crew and
myself alive. And that, mister, is
another command lesson...!
INT. BRIDGE
131
RAND
Kirk's face reflects his frustration, but he says
nothing, addresses Ilia:
KIRK
I'll handle the conn, Lieutenant.
You take a break.
(grateful)
Thank you, sir.
ILIA
(CONTINUED)
70.
131
CONTINUED:
131
KIRK
(a little firmer)
Lieutenant...
71.
131
CONTINUED: (2)
131
132
133
134
72.
135
135
SULU
ILIA
What better place? All our friends
are here.
And, again, she runs her fingers playfully along his
cheek. Again, Sulu pushes her away.
SULU
Please, Ilia... please ... !
And he glances at the room, at two officers, LT. BANDAR,
an attractive Ceylonese young lady, and LT. HAWKINS, a
male engineering officer. They're watching the byplay
with amusement. Sulu flashes a forced "you-know-how-itis" smile at them, turns quickly again to Ilia.
ILIA
Sulu, are you rejecting me?
SULU
(flustered)
Yes... no...
(terse whisper)
What about your oath of celibacy...?
ILIA
Is sex all you ever think of...?
(peers at him, reads
his mind images,
nods solemnly)
Yes, I'm afraid it is!
73.
136
136
ILIA
137
INT. CORRIDOR
138
as Sulu and Ilia and the others rush out, then seal the
door. Everyone begins hurrying down the corridor toward
their respective stations. The Intruder Alert VOICE
CONTINUES in background.
139
139
The INTRUDER ALERT SOUNDING -- TURQUOISE LIGHTS FLASHING -and MORE PROBES materializing in this section of the
corridor. At the corridor's far end, Chekov now appears
with TWO SECURITY MEN.
They are rushing along (toward the elevator), come to
an abrupt halt seeing the probes, one of which is unlike
(CONTINUED)
74.
139
CONTINUED:
139
the others: it resembles a ring, with a large pearllike object on the top, the "pearl" actually the "eye";
and, unlike the others, it does not hover, it walks on
three slender legs. And as it spies the men, the "pearl"
begins flashing different colors and begins emitting a
SOUND that reminds you of a HIGHPITCHED, RAPID, EXCITED
SQUEALING. This is the only sensor-probe which has
noticed the humans and it is clearly frightened of them.
One of the Security Men aims his phaser -- Chekov blocks
the Man's hand.
No ...
CHEKOV
1ST SECURITY MAN
They might be dangerous...!
CHEKOV
So do you! They haven't attacked
you, have they?
Chekov approaches the hovering probes-the legged probe
seems to stay slightly behind the others, as though
allowing them to protect it. All the time it continues
its excited SQUEALING. Chekov indicates toward it.
CHEKOV
(continuing)
That's the only one that seems to
notice humans. And it's scared to
death of us.
The egg-shaped probe floats past Chekov, circles his
knees as the feeler reaches out to investigate some
aspect of the Enterprise. Then the "eye" probe (also
egg-shaped) investigates some other starship mechanism.
Then Chekov reaches out with both hands as though trying
to ditch a fly.
He nearly snares the probe, but it darts agilely away.
Chekov steps after it, makes another pass-again misses.
In the meantime, the three-legged probe is emitting
even more EXCITED SQUEALS and flashing brighter colors -almost as though scolding Chekov for trying to catch
its associate. Chekov moves toward the legged probe,
but it retreats. The egg-shaped "eye" follows, but
Chekov is faster, he moves behind it.
CHEKOV
(continuing; to 2nd
Security Man)
Cut it off...!
(to 1st Security Man)
Get the one with the legs...!
75.
140
140
141
76.
142
142
INT. SICKBAY
with Chapel -- and a NURSE, in surgical gowns, operating
on a PATIENT. And the probes here, also. But,
strangely, not near the operating table, remaining
several feet away, but obviously studying all that's
going on. The CAMERA SWINGS OVER TO FIND McCoy, outside
the operating area (he's in a surgical gown), at the
intercom. As he talks, one of the probes extends a
feeler toward him and McCoy swats at it, the feeler
instantly moving away.
MCCOY
(Intercom)
Yes, Jim, they're here, too!
143
77.
144
144
as he sees another probe flat toward the operating area -then suddenly SPARKS shoot out (from the sterile
forcefield) and the probe staggers away, moves elsewhere.
MCCOY
(with satisfaction)
But they don't like the sterile
forcefield...!
145
INT. BRIDGE
145
146
as Kirk rejoins the group and now we can SEE that Xon
has dissembled the probe, the CAMERA CLOSING MOMENTARILY
so we can SEE the interior of the probe: a finely
designed arrangement of transistors and motors. Xon is
fascinated, but characteristically unemotional:
XON
Ingenious...!
(indicates)
Memory bank, I'd guess... this could
be an incredibly miniaturized
transceiver...
DECKER
You mean you're not certain of any
of it?
(CONTINUED)
78.
146
CONTINUED:
146
XON
This is a technology so alien to
ours, Commander, that we don't have
even the words to describe its
components.
(holds device up to
view)
These tiny mechanical components
are actually liquid hydrogen at
absolute zero, shaped and insulated
by a forcefield my most sensitive
instruments can't measure...
147
147
148
ANGLE ON XON
149
(CONTINUED)
79.
149
CONTINUED:
149
KIRK
(to Uhura)
Dispatch Chekov to the computer
library. He's to destroy any probes
attempting to infiltrate the records
there.
150
150
INT. BRIDGE
151
152
80.
153
ANGLE ON XON
153
154
155
(CONTINUED)
81.
155
CONTINUED:
155
URURA
(working her controls)
I'm playing it back, Captain ...
UHURA
(a moment, then she
has the translation)
...you will allow me to speak to
USS Enterprise!' It sounds like an
order.
XON
I'm certain it is.
DECKER
Are you serious, Mr. Xon?
XON
Sir, the probes were sent here to
analyze our vessel. All but this
one have been withdrawn. Logically,
therefore, it remains for a specific
purpose: to act as a communications
liaison between the alien ship -and our ship.
Our ship...?
CHEKOV
XON
Yes, sir. If we assume that the
alien considers the Enterprise a
life form -- then we must assume
that the alien ship is, itself, a
life form.
As Xon completes this sentence, the probe flashes more
colors, EMITS more SQUEAKS.
CHEKOV
(to the probe)
Hey, Tasha, shut up...!
(to Kirk, of Xon)
He makes sense, Captain. That
seventy-mile-long ship that's holding
us prisoner... must be a living
thing...!
UHURA
(enlightened)
Otherwise it couldn't consider the
Enterprise one --
82.
156
156
Kirk
KIRK
...Tasha... talk to me.
(to the probe; a beat)
...I am James T. Kirk. I am in
command of the Enterprise: you may.
Uhura relays this via high-speed tape. A moment, then
Tasha EMITS another excited SQUEAL. Kirk glances at
Uhura, waiting for her to decipher the playback:
UHURA
(perplexed, translating)
'...that is impossible.'
'Impossible?'
KIRK
Why is it impossible?
XON
I believe what it means, sir, is
that it is impossible for you to be
in command of the Enterprise.
Kirk cannot help an eyebrow-raising reaction, as Xon
hastily continues:
XON
(continuing)
Very likely this probe considers us
like itself: Probes, or some machinelife existing for the purpose of
accomplishing various tasks within
our ship. Hardly capable of command.
DECKER
It has sensors, Xon; they can show
we're flesh and blood.
XON
Yes, sir, and I'm sure it has found
our carbon-based construction
unusual... but we are machines, by
any definition: we ingest fuel,
eliminate waste, we operate by
levers, fulcrums -Xon's words suddenly trail off: he's peering at Kirk:
83.
157
157
(CONTINUED)
84.
157
CONTINUED:
157
KIRK
(to computer)
Computer... the message is as
follows: This is the USS Enterprise.
Why are you holding me captive?
Transmit.
158
ANGLE ON TASHA
158
159
REACTION SHOTS
160
(CONTINUED)
85.
160
CONTINUED:
160
CHEKOV
430 parasites -- he means us!
(indignant)
Parasites...!
DECKER
(terse)
It could be a life and death
question, Captain. If he believes
we're the cause of the ship's
'malfunction,' he'll move to destroy
us -(grim)
-- to save the ship...!
XON
You can't admit we control the ship:
then we will seem like infectious
parasites.
161
(CONTINUED)
86.
161
CONTINUED:
161
KIRK
(thinks, then)
The home of the Creator is the entire
universe, not the third planet.
(CONTINUED)
87.
161
CONTINUED: (2)
161
DECKER
(to Xon)
Main controls off...!
Xon hits the switches, but still we HEAR the BEEPS.
XON
I can't disengage...!
KIRK
(into intercom)
Engineering... main computer controls
off, Scottie!
162
162
163
164
88.
164
CONTINUED:
164
165
166
INT. CORRIDOR
167
(CONTINUED)
89.
167
CONTINUED:
167
KIRK'S VOICE (CONT'D)
The irony of all, of course, is
that by cutting off our computer,
we have also cut off our only means
of communicating with the alien...
so that we are unable to ascertain
the fate of Lieutenant Ilia -- and,
more important, the purpose of the
alien's visit to Earth. Our only
clue is his statement that Earth is
'The Holy Home of The Creator.'
What Creator...?
INT. SICKBAY
168
169
where several beds are occupied by injured CREWMEN -and another bed, with Xon seated on the edge (in sickbay
dressing gown, etc.), studying the small bedside viewer,
and a pile of computer chips beside him. Chapel is
dressing Xon's burned hands, moving a small, hand-held
device over the wounds (the device emanates a small
shaft of light, this to facilitate healing), but Xon
seems entirely oblivious, so engrossed is he in the
viewer.
McCoy is also here, studying a scan-print at one of the
other patients' beds. He glances up as Kirk appears,
Kirk nodding to the other crewmen, AD-LIBBING "How are
you, Swenson..." "...you're looking fine, Ledoux..."
etc., etc.
KIRK
How are you feeling, Lieutenant
Xon?
Kirk walks over to Xon's bed.
Xon does not reply; he hasn't even heard Kirk, never
looks away from the viewer, but now inserts another
chip, studies the screen. Chapel is just finishing her
treatment.
CHAPEL
(to Kirk)
Plasti-skin has healed his burns
beautifully, but I don't know how
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
90.
169
CONTINUED:
169
CHAPEL (CONT'D)
he keeps going after the shock he
suffered.
170
INCLUDE MCCOY
170
joining them.
MCCOY
He's like all Vulcans: too smart
for their own good.
Chapel leaves, as McCoy reaches over and snaps shut the
viewer. Xon, not even bothering to see who did it,
simply switches it back on again.
MCCOY
(continuing; hard)
Off, Lieutenant. Turn it off...!
And McCoy again switches off the viewer. Now Xon does
turn, regards McCoy a cool instant, then glances at
Kirk, nods politely.
XON
Good evening, sir. You'll be
interested to know that I have
compiled all the data the alien
managed to receive from the computer
before we cut it off.
Before you did.
KIRK
XON
(shrugs deprecatingly)
No vital information was passed:
Some three thousand years of ancient
Earth history -- and a portion of
Enterprise personnel records. Also
complete studies on Earth
agriculture, animal life, and human
anatomy.
KIRK
You're sure that's all he got?
XON
Absolutely, sir. He received no
information concerning Starfleet,
Earth defenses, or The Federation.
(CONTINUED)
91.
170
CONTINUED:
170
KIRK
Then we lucked out...
(a wry aside to McCoy)
...in that area, at least.
XON
No, sir; this may not be as fortunate
as it seems.
KIRK
(straining for patience)
Please, Lieutenant, no Vulcan
riddles.
XON
When I mean to say, sir, is that I
have concluded that on the basis of
what information the alien did
receive, he must now have determined
that the same 'parasites' infecting
the Enterprise also 'infect' Earth.
Indeed, he may well believe they
have taken over the planet -- the
'Holy Home of The Creator' -- and
his duty is to rid the planet of
that plague.
MCCOY
Now we're a 'plague'...
XON
(bland, to McCoy)
Yes, sir...
(to Kirk)
If you will excuse me, Captain,
I'll continue my computations --
171
(CONTINUED)
92.
171
CONTINUED:
171
KIRK
'Rest'? An alien ship the size of
Manhattan Island is heading for
earth -- taking us along with it;
it's captured one of our crew
members. And you want me to 'rest'?
MCCOY
You won't do us any good if you
collapse from nervous exhaustion.
KIRK
I'll be all right...
KIRK
And he grasps McCoy's elbow gratefully, turns and leaves.
McCoy stands gazing worriedly after him a moment, then
turns and glances into the:
172
HOSPITAL AREA
172
(CONTINUED)
McCoy
93.
172
CONTINUED:
172
173
174
175
as Kirk reaches the bed, and all at once hears the sonic
shower (in the bathroom) splatter on. Alert instantly,
Kirk peers into the bathroom, steps into it, and sees
an incredible sight:
176
176
ILIA
177
(CONTINUED)
94.
177
CONTINUED:
177
ILIA
(continuing; as she
puts robe on)
The multi-cellular casting left my
form at night temperature. This
has now cooled it to what you
consider normal.
KIRK
You're what? Something using
Lieutenant Ilia's form.
ILIA
And functioning perfectly.
178
178
MCCOY
179
180
KIRK
(CONTINUED)
95.
180
CONTINUED:
180
ILIA
Yes, isn't that the name you gave
me?
ANGLE ON KIRK
181
(CONTINUED)
96.
181
CONTINUED:
181
SCOTT (V.O.)
Are we expecting more
KIRK
I wouldn't doubt it. Kirk out.
182
182
MCCOY
And he now switches on the intercom, speaks into it:
MCCOY
(continuing; into
intercom)
Lieutenant Chapel... bring a portable
scanner and metabolic-recorder to
the Captain's quarters at once,
please.
CHAPEL (V.O.)
(with urgency)
I'm on my way...
KIRK
(to McCoy)
The Science Officer -MCCOY
(into intercom)
...and bring Lieutenant Xon with
you.
183
INT. SICKBAY
with Chapel at the intercom, AD LIBBING into it "Yes,
sir," switching it off, and stepping into the:
183
97.
184
HOSPITAL AREA
184
185
KIRK'S QUARTERS
186
187
Good
CHAPEL
(confused)
I don't understand: who's sick?
98.
188
188
189
(CONTINUED)
99.
189
CONTINUED:
189
100.
189
CONTINUED: (2)
189
XON
(a beat, then to Ilia)
She has ceased to exist...?
ILIA
(pleasantly)
She has been disassembled.
A moment as the grim meaning of this is absorbed.
THEN:
XON
Why have you been sent here?
ILIA
To learn more about the servo-units
inhabiting USS Enterprise.
MCCOY
Servo-units ... ?
KIRK
The 'parasites,' Bones.
Us.
(CONTINUED)
101.
189
CONTINUED: (3)
189
ILIA
Why USS Enterprise considers the
servo-units so vital to its
existence. Ve-jur is anxious for
this knowledge.
XON
'Ve-jur'...? Is that the name of
your ship?
ILIA
That is its name: Ve-jur.
MCCOY
Ve-jur: well, at least we can stop
calling it 'it'.
190
190
Stand by.
(to Ilia)
Would you mind staying here with
Doctor McCoy while Mr. Xon and I go
to the bridge...?
(forced smile)
We'll only be a few minutes.
191
FAVORING MCCOY
Reacting to the announcement that he's staying with
Ilia.
ILIA
(pleasant)
That will be quite satisfactory.
And Kirk gestures Xon to leave the room. They start
out. Kirk glancing back at McCoy, who is regarding
Ilia nervously as she reaches out a hand and begins
touching his face with the Deltan soothing caress.
191
102.
192
INT. CORRIDOR
192
INT. ELEVATOR
193
(CONTINUED)
103.
193
CONTINUED:
193
INT. BRIDGE
194
195
(CONTINUED)
104.
195
CONTINUED:
195
Mr. Chekov...?
KIRK
CHEKOV
I agree, Captain.
Kirk thinks a moment, then switches on the intercom:
KIRK
(into intercom)
Engineering... Scottie, can you
give us just enough power for a
subspace transmission to Starfleet
without the alien's sensors mistaking
it for a full power breakaway?
SCOTT (V.O.)
It'll have to be done in under
fifteen seconds, captain.
196
196
ON SULU
197
SULU
198
(CONTINUED)
105.
198
CONTINUED:
198
MCCOY
She insisted on coming up here -UHURA
(pleased)
Ilia, you're all right...
ILIA
Oh, yes, I'm fine.
KIRK
(grim)
This is not Lieutenant Ilia...
Ladies and gentlemen...
(as all react)
...meet... Tasha.
199
199
INT. BRIDGE
Everyone studying Ilia, obviously now having been
informed of the truth about her by Kirk, who is just
speaking into the intercom:
KIRK
(into intercom)
Stand by, Mr. Scott...
(to Uhura)
Are you ready, Commander?
UHURA
(with a glance at
Ilia)
Ready.
KIRK
Open the frequency.
And Uhura peers at Ilia just one more beat, then turns
and begins transmitting the message.
200
106.
201
201
UHURA
202
(CONTINUED)
107.
202
CONTINUED:
202
ILIA (CONT'D)
If this is so, it indicates the
servo-units have also gained control
over superior lifeforms on the third
planet.
203
203
SULU
204
205
108.
206
206
KIRK
ILIA
(shakes her head)
No; you've denied that the third
planet is the Holy Home.
207
207
208
109.
209
209
ANGLE ON ILIA
210
KIRK
ILIA
You may beam over whenever you're
ready. I'll accompany you.
CHEKOV
(dubious)
All of a sudden, just like that...!
Captain, I think you would be very
foolish to do it.
KIRK
(wry)
Commander, I agree...
(to Xon)
Lieutenant Xon, would you consider
volunteering to see the inside of
Ve-jur...?
Yes, sir!
XON
KIRK
You just did...
(to Decker)
You're in command, Will.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
110.
210
CONTINUED:
210
KIRK (CONT'D)
If we lose contact for any period
longer than ten minutes... you'll
proceed at maximum speed to earth.
Contact from me, not any replica --
Then
KIRK
(into intercom)
I wish I knew.
211
211
(CONTINUED)
111.
211
CONTINUED:
211
SCOTT
Well, that's a help: now I won't
have to worry about not putting you
square inside the oxygen... are you
ready, sir?
KIRK
SCOTT
Scott moves the controls. The SHIMMERING EFFECT, and
in an instant the three forms are dematerializing.
Scott waits another instant, then speaks into the
intercom:
SCOTT
(continuing; into
intercom)
Bridge... they're beamed over, safe
and sound.
212
212
213
(CONTINUED)
214
112.
214
CONTINUED:
214
215
216
217
218
219
113.
220
220
KIRK
ILIA
(nods)
That servo-unit has ceased
functioning.
KIRK
Could we take her back with us?
ILIA
The form is being preserved for
further study.
KIRK
It's possible we can still repair
it somehow.
ILIA
(surprised)
But why? You have me. And my
construction is stronger -- and
much more useful.
XON
But you are not like us.
ILIA
All the better. I will never wear
out...
(quickly)
Come, I'll show you the Creator.
And she sets off, Kirk and Xon following, but both
glancing back regretfully at Ilia's body, gently rocking
about in the billowing plasma-mass.
221
221
114.
222
CLOSER
222
223
224
225
115.
225
CONTINUED:
225
Xon has come over and gazes at the plaque with Kirk.
It takes a moment for Kirk to decipher the letters:
KIRK
VGR -- Ve-jur. Voyager...! Voyager
18. The first deep space probe
designed to send signals back from
beyond our solar system.
XON
Launched in 1996.
KIRK
It stopped transmitting only a few
weeks after it passed Jupiter.
XON
Yes sir, and all theoreticians agreed
it disappeared into a black hole.
KIRK
It must have; and entered hyperspace and timelessness until it
came out the other side -- in a
part of the galaxy hundreds of
thousands of light years away...
(runs fingers over
other inscriptions)
Can you make out any of this...?
226
ANGLE ON ILIA
226
The
XON
(to Kirk)
Obviously, it is a description of
the probe's purpose, and its origin -KIRK
(indicating earth on
the plaque)
-- The third planet.
XON
And N-A-S-A of course is NASA, the
old National Aeronautics and Space
Administration agency.
(CONTINUED)
116.
226
CONTINUED:
226
Glory to Nasa.
ILIA
KIRK
They don't realize it was us -- the
humans on earth -- who built Voyager
18...
(to Ilia)
If Ve-jur destroys the servo-units
on the third planet, he will be
destroying those who created him.
Instantly, out of nowhere, there is a greenish-white
stream of laser fire, and an electrical crackle, the
beam shooting into Kirk's chest. It knocks him down,
writhing in pain.
XON
(moving to help)
Captain...
ILIA
(calmly)
Ve-jur punishes those who lie.
It is not a --
XON
But Kirk manages to weakly reach up and clap his hand
over Xon's lips, and at the same time he speaks to Ilia.
KIRK
I meant no insult.
ILIA
Ve-jur is satisfied that the servounits do not accept The Creator.
You will return to USS Enterprise,
and resume your journey to the third
planet. There, you are to advise
the higher lifeforms of Ve-jur's
arrival, and the return of The
Creator.
KIRK
'Higher life forms' -- machines.
XON
Yes, sir; machines.
Kirk gazes around him just an instant, then struggles
to his feet, opening his wrist communicator:
(CONTINUED)
117.
226
CONTINUED: (2)
226
KIRK
(into communicator)
Kirk to Enterprise.
227
INT. BRIDGE
227
228
229
118.
230
230
231
232
119.
232
CONTINUED:
232
XON (CONT'D)
eons. But some three hundred years
ago -- for reasons which even Tasha
is not sure -ILIA
-- The Time of the Trouble.
XON
Yes, The Time of the Trouble: a
series of natural disasters, perhaps.
Or perhaps the disappearance of the
metal alloys the machines constructed
themselves with. What ever it was,
the civilization began decaying.
ILIA
And then the Holy One arrived.
XON
The Holy One -- Voyager 18.
Crippled, barely operative, it landed
on the machine planet. And while
by the standards of the living
machines, Voyager 18 was extremely
primitive, it carried within it a
regenerative spark. It revitalized
the entire race. And 300 years
later, having now attained star
travel capability, they set out to
reach the distant planet from which
had come their Savior.
ILIA
Glory to Nasa for sending its Son,
and its Message.
MCCOY
But why is the message 'Destroy All
Life On Earth'...?!
ILIA
Because if servo-units like
yourselves control such beings as
USS Enterprise -- and infest the
third planet in a similar fashion -isn't it obvious the Holy Home must
be cleansed?
(pleasantly)
Surely, you can understand this...?
120.
233
233
234
(CONTINUED)
121.
234
CONTINUED:
234
KIRK
Starfleet Command, the Archives
Building.
SCOTT
(unhumorous laugh)
From orbit, Captain, I couldn't
guarantee anything closer than the
North Pole. At perigee, we're 22,000
miles, you know.
KIRK
Suppose there was a relay station?
In sub-orbit?
SCOTT
So long as it wasn't more than 16,000
miles from us -- and from the target.
235
235
ON ILIA
236
237
(CONTINUED)
122.
237
CONTINUED:
237
ILIA
And without another word, she throws her arms around
him, draws his face down to hers -- and kisses him.
Kirk is so startled he is frozen-for a moment only.
Tasha/Ilia is so life-like and real that he's nearly
carried away. He pushes her gently from him.
KIRK
(flustered)
You really are a fine reproduction.
ILIA
I told you I was. Could we try it
again?
KIRK
(backing off)
There are other things to a
relationship.
ILIA
But not as pleasant.
Kirk peers at her a moment.
KIRK
How could you know that?
(CONTINUED)
123.
237
CONTINUED: (2)
I feel it.
You 'feel'...?
238
237
ILIA
KIRK
FAVORING ILIA
238
239
ILIA
Kirk looks at her, nods almost sadly.
240
240
(CONTINUED)
124.
240
CONTINUED:
240
KIRK
(from the start)
...And you, Mr. Xon, you'll program
the main computer to place the entire
vessel into a self-destruct mode
upon proper signal.
Yes, sir.
XON
KIRK
(to Decker)
You'll give that signal, Will, at
your discretion. No matter what
happens, the Enterprise's memory
banks mustn't fall into Ve-jur's
hands. The whole Federation will
be jeopardized.
DECKER
I understand, Captain.
241
ANGLE ON SCOTT
241
KIRK
Scott doesn't comply immediately, instead peers at Kirk -old comrades. Kirk nods at him. And Scott moves the
controls.
SCOTT
Energizing.
Kirk and Ilia stand waiting -- then the SHIMMERING
EFFECT, and in an instant they have dematerialized.
The men stand gazing at the empty platform.
(CONTINUED)
125.
241
CONTINUED:
241
SCOTT
(continuing; muttering
to himself)
I only hope the Delphi transporter
officer knows what he's doing.
242
242
DELPHI CAPTAIN
Yes, sir. Starfleet has requested
we beam you directly to Admiral
Nogura's office.
Very well.
KIRK
TRANSPORTER OFFICER
Sir, we're in a parallel pattern
over earth, so we won't lose the
target. Perhaps you and the young
lady might like a few minutes
rest...?
No, we -243
KIRK
243
(CONTINUED)
126.
243
CONTINUED:
243
KIRK
I think it might be helpful for the
young lady to get a first hand look
at life on earth. Maintain your
parallel pattern, and inform Admiral
Nogura I'll meet him at the Archives
Building in thirty minutes. Energize.
244
244
127.
244
CONTINUED:
244
Oh, yes.
KIRK
Let me
245
AT THE BEACH
246
(CONTINUED)
128.
246
CONTINUED:
246
KIRK
They made none of it; nature did.
Nature?
ILIA
KIRK
The natural state of things and
beings.
Ilia grips the driftwood, feels it.
ILIA
But if it isn't manufactured... it
isn't perfect.
KIRK
(agreeing)
Nothing is perfect; not here.
Nothing can be, because those who
live here are themselves imperfect -and always will be...
(faces her)
Can't you see the difference between
us -- and other servo-units?
ILIA
A difference? How can there be a
difference...?
Kirk peers at her frustratedly, then indicates the
driftwood -- and then the ocean, and then the sand.
The trees.
KIRK
This; all this is what makes it
different.
247
247
248
129.
248
CONTINUED:
248
ILIA
A machine -- employed as a
transporter of servo-units!
KIRK
Ilia, we created that machine.
Just as we created NASA, and your
own Holy One. And it was people
like us -- servo-units -- who must
have created even the distant
ancestors of Ve-jur.
No...!
ILIA
She hurls the driftwood to the sand, stares wildly at
him one instant, then turns and starts running away.
Kirk strides after her, catches her.
KIRK
Why can't you simply accept, or
reject my statement? Why do you
run away?
Ilia peers at him -- and no longer is that bland,
pleasant expression in her eyes. Now, more than ever,
they seem alive. And Troubled.
I don't know.
ILIA
And suddenly she hurls herself in his arms, buries her
face in his chest. Clings to him. Kirk holds her a
moment, then flips open his wrist communicator.
KIRK
(into communicator)
Kirk to Delphi.
Delphi.
DELPHI VOICE
KIRK
(into communicator)
Beam two from these coordinates to
the Archives Building.
Kirk closes the communicator, looks down at the woman
he holds in his arms. He pulls her even closer to him.
249
249
130.
249
CONTINUED:
249
ANGLE ON XON
250
DECKER
XON
Five thousand, two hundred kilometers
from our orbital position.
(a beat)
Commander... our sensors are picking
up an object ejected by the alien...!
It's proceeding away from him at a rapid speed, but in
the same orbital trajectory.
Composition...?
DECKER
XON
(shakes his head)
It's shielded, sir.
DECKER
Helmsman, lay in an interception
course: coordinates zero five one,
mark four. Orbital speed plus two.
SULU
Leaving orbit, sir.
251
251
131.
252
252
DECKER
253
(CONTINUED)
132.
253
CONTINUED:
253
XON
I am, sir... I'll have the readings
correlated in a second
(breaks off, a beat)
He's placed two others in orbit! A
total of four.
254
CHEKOV
254
133.
255
255
XON
256
257
DECKER
Warp speed...!
SULU
(desperately working
controls)
We're caught in his tractor beam
again!
258
258
a room with stacks of computer tapes, microfilms -clearly long stored, ancient. Seated facing a large
viewing screen are Admiral Nogura, Captain Lebutu,
Admiral Carson -- and Kirk and Ilia. Built into the
armrest of Nogura's chair are control buttons, and as
he touches them, on the screen flash various copies of
records, files, newspaper accounts: all of NASA
activities, particularly the launching of Voyager 18.
Still photographs of the event, etc. In a corner we
will CATCH A GLIMPSE of a 20th Century film projector,
and several cans of film.
(CONTINUED)
134.
258
CONTINUED:
258
LEBUTU
(from the start)
...the complete accounts of NASA -and, as you see, Voyager 18.
259
ANGLE ON ILIA
259
260
YEOWOMAN
261
(CONTINUED)
135.
261
CONTINUED:
261
KIRK
(to Ilia)
Tasha... why can't you accept the
evidence...?
ILIA
(troubled)
It's all simulated.
NOGURA
Well, of course it is! The original
records crumpled to dust hundreds
of years ago.
262
263
(CONTINUED)
264
136.
264
CONTINUED:
264
XON
They are disengaged, sir; the
computer is programmed to communicate
to the alien only that information
we've selected.
265
265
DECKER
SCOTT
(grim)
I'm ready to overload my engines at
your order, commander.
Decker hesitates a beat, swivels around to glance at
the chronometer: 00:07:12. Now he faces the computer
(microphone), speaks:
DECKER
Computer... transmit the following:
I am sending you information about
the cultural and scientific
achievements of the human servounits from the beginning of their
time. You will see that although
the servo-units differ from pure
machine life, they are intelligent
creatures who serve useful functions
and should not be destroyed.
Computer... transmit.
A moment where we HEAR the BEEP of the ultra-high-speed
message flashing over to the alien. And then another
moment, and the responding BEEP.
COMPUTER VOICE
Translating: information received
is incomplete.
Glances of dismay are exchanged.
CHEKOV
How could he know...?!
Logic.
XON
Pure, mathematical logic.
(CONTINUED)
137.
265
CONTINUED:
265
MCCOY
You give him the rest, he'll see
every war fought: Alexander, Attila,
the Crusades, Napoleon, Hitler.
And the terrorism and pollution and
famine of the 20th Century. And
the 21st Century nuclear wars...!
(grim wryness)
He'll see the other side of our
'achievements ... '!
UHURA
But we're not like that anymore.
DECKER
Then let him see it...! It might
convince him that for all our
weaknesses, we've survived -- and
advanced to the point where none of
that is necessary any more...
(to computer)
Computer.
XON
(interrupting)
Excuse me, sir, but if we release
that information, we also release
information concerning every planet
in the Federation. They'll suffer
the same fate, sir!
SULU
We have five minutes to detonation.
266
FAVORING DECKER
266
(CONTINUED)
138.
266
CONTINUED:
266
267
KIRK
Faster...
1ST TECH
I'm trying, sir...
268
ANGLE ON ILIA
268
Suddenly
ILIA
I can assemble it.
And the Technicians step aside as rapidly and expertly
Ilia sets up the projector, threads the film.
ILIA
(continuing)
It's a charming unit -And almost immediately the film is ready to roll. Ilia
caresses the projector lovingly.
ILIA
(continuing)
How beautiful...!
And she switches it on:
269
269
(CONTINUED)
139.
269
CONTINUED:
269
NOGURA
My God, it's less than three minutes
to detonation.
ILIA
KIRK
intercom)
Starfleet Command Order:
UFP data from every
computer library.
270
DECKER
SCOTT
DECKER
Activate the self-destruct system,
and commence your engine overload.
271
ANGLE ON SCOTT
271
140.
271
CONTINUED:
271
DECKER
I'm aware of it, Mr. Xon ...
(unhumorous laugh)
I think we might as well go out in
style, that's all.
272
141.
272
CONTINUED:
272
KIRK
And you can feel that?
ILIA
(bemused)
I think so...
(quickly)
Kirk, what I'm sorry about is that
you have to be destroyed.
KIRK
Only me, not the others?
ILIA
The others aren't important.
KIRK
Everyone is important -- that's
another difference between humans
and machines. It's called morality;
it's part of our imperfection.
I think
ILIA
(with sincerity)
Ve-jur can never be wrong.
273
273
(CONTINUED)
142.
273
CONTINUED:
273
ILIA
I don't want to hear anymore...!
And she walks away from him, stands so she won't have
to face him.
274
THE CLOCK
274
00:00:10 9 8 7.
275
ILIA
275
KIRK
276
waiting.
277
THE CLOCK
277
00:00:04 3 2 1 0.
278
278
279
Why?
(CONTINUED)
143.
279
CONTINUED:
279
ILIA
(gazing at him)
I don't know.
280
INT. BRIDGE
280
ANGLE ON SCOTT
281
282
(CONTINUED)
144.
282
CONTINUED:
282
COMPUTER VOICE
Translating: Ve-jur can learnnothing
from lower life forms. End of
transmission.
SULU
The tractor beam is fading...!
283
283
ILIA
284
285
SCOTT'S VOICE
The Delphi's waiting
286
145.
286
CONTINUED:
286
ON KIRK
287
SCOTT
(CONTINUED)
146.
287
CONTINUED:
287
KIRK
Prepare to depart orbit.
SCOTT
Aye, aye, sir...!
288
288
STAR TREK THEME MUSIC comes up,
KIRK'S
These are the voyages
Enterprise... its new
mission to explore...
VOICE
of the Starship
five-year
etc., etc.