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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Where Silence Has Lease"
#40272-128
Written by
Jack B. Sowards
Directed by
Winrich Kolbe
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1988 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 This script is not for publication or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.
REVISED FINAL DRAFT
SEPTEMBER 27, 1988
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Where Silence Has Lease"
CAST
PICARD NAGILUM
RIKER
DATA Non-Speaking
PULASKI TWO ALIEN WARRIORS
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
WESLEY
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
HASKELL
Voice-Over
COMPUTER VOICE
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Where Silence Has Lease"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
HOLODECK USS YAMATO
GEORDI'S OFFICE
GEORDI'S AFT BRIDGE STATION ROMULAN VESSEL
TRANSPORTER ROOM
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
CORRIDOR
MAIN ENGINEERING -
COMPUTER ROOM
PICARD'S QUARTERS
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
USS YAMATO
CORRIDOR
MAIN BRIDGE
SECOND BRIDGE
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Where Silence Has Lease"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
NAGILUM nah-GHEE-lum
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Where Silence Has Lease"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
It is moving gracefully at full impulse.
2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
JEAN-LUC PICARD is in the command chair. TROI is
beside him. DATA is at Ops; WESLEY at Conn. Neither
Worf nor Riker is on the bridge. Picard appears to
be on edge.
TROI
You're worried.
PICARD
With reason.
TROI
About Worf, or about Commander
Riker?
PICARD
Both.
(pauses)
I think perhaps it is best to
be ignorant of certain elements
of the Klingon psyche.
Off Troi's reaction.
3 INT. HOLODECK - DEMOLISHED AREA
Everywhere there is evidence of a desperate battle,
fought on a very primitive level by creatures of
consummate rage.
4 CLOSE ON WORF
His eyes blaze with controlled fury as he moves
carefully around a semi-demolished wall and peers
inside the battle-damaged room. He coils as he hears
the eerie sound of a low moan, then cautiously steps
forward.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - TEASER 2.
5 RIKER
is a few paces behind. He is very tense as he moves
closer to the large Klingon warrior. Riker touches
the tear in his uniform and massages the bruise on his
shoulder.
6 ANOTHER ANGLE - RIKER AND WORF
WORF touches RIKER's shoulder, signals him to move to
the right. Riker moves off. Worf pauses a beat, then
slips away to the left.
7 WIDER ANGLE
carrying them to the edge of the rubble-cluttered room.
Careful not to touch anything, Worf is moving like a
panther. He freezes as the CLICKING SOUND OF METAL ON
METAL is barely heard. He waves his arm to Riker,
motioning him back, then slowly he also backs away
painstakingly, trying to fit his toes back into his
exact footsteps. We HOLD on these moves a beat and
then suddenly:
8 RIKER
spins and looks upward, calls over to Worf.
RIKER
Above, look out!
9 NEW ANGLE
A man-sized boulder drops down from overhead. Worf
dives to the side as the boulder smashes the ground in
the place where he just stood.
10 ON WORF
As he rolls catlike to his feet, the massive form of an
ALIEN WARRIOR leaps onto his back bringing him back to
the ground. The alien raises a club-like weapon over
his head and swings down at Worf's head.
11 RIKER
Catches the alien's arm just before the club makes
contact and drives him off his feet. He kicks him and
follows after him to the other side of the room as:
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - TEASER 3.
12 WORF
turns to face the charge of ANOTHER ALIEN who wields
a battle axe and swings it in a deadly arc. Worf ducks
under the axe and gets a grip on the alien's arm and
they press against each other's strength.
13 CLOSER
Worf, grunting in a half-roar, slowly forces the alien
back, then with a bellow and a gargantuan heave, Worf
throws the alien to the side.
14 SCENE
Worf leaps at the alien who is caught in half-stride.
Worf drives his forearm into his opponent's throat and
as he becomes limp, drives a double-handed blow to the
back of the alien's head. Worf's enemy drops.
15 RIKER
ducks under the alien's club and drives a blow to the
lower extremities of his opponent. The attacker
doubles over and Riker hits him on the way down. But
he no sooner hits the ground than he is back on his
feet, charging Riker. Our first officer steps to his
side and strikes at the alien as he goes by, heading
straight at Worf.
16 NEW ANGLE
Worf turns to face the onrushing alien. He thunders
out his challenge, picks up the club from the prone
alien, swings it at the new rival.
17 REVERSE
The alien ducks the blow and swings back.
18 RIKER
about to enter into the fight, then he holds a beat,
stops and watches somewhat in awe.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - TEASER 4.
19 WORF / ALIEN
The alien connects with a savage blow to Worf's body.
Worf takes the blow and returns his own.
They trade blows, one for one, taking the pain and
returning it. Then slowly the alien sinks to his
knees, then rolls over on his side.
20 ON WORF
as he steps over the alien warrior, roars out his
victorious celebration chant, and lifts the club for
the final fatal blow. His eyes are on fire. He
smashes it down on his opponent, then spins around for
a new battle.
21 RIKER
Suddenly a little unsure of Worf's intentions, he backs
a step, waits.
22 WORF
Worf sounds out a new challenge. He scans the room for
his next adversary -- he's still coiled and in need of
action. Suddenly he swings his club at the wall.
Pounding it with rage. Broken bricks and mortar fly.
His fury is all consuming. He rips and slashes at
everything standing.
23 NEW ANGLE
Riker watches -- still concerned. He thought he knew
the power and fury of this Klingon. Worf continues to
exercise his rage around the room. Anything that
stands, hangs, bulges, protrudes, or is suspended, is
demolished until there is nothing left to flatten.
Nothing left upright except... Worf turns -- his eyes
still blaze as they fall upon...
24 RIKER
The only thing left standing. Riker tenses.
RIKER
It's over.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - TEASER 5.
25 WORF
This seems to have no effect on Worf who seems almost
out of control. A snarl -- low and vicious -- pushes
out of his twisted mouth. He takes a step forward.
RIKER
The exercise is over.
26 SCENE
Riker calls more sternly.
RIKER
At ease, Lieutenant!
Worf is almost upon Riker before beginning to regain
control of himself. He takes a deep breath, forcing
himself to become calmer. He flexes his muscles, then
seems pleased.
27 EMPHASIZING RIKER (OPTICAL)
RIKER
Exit Holodeck.
The EXIT APPEARS as Riker turns to Worf.
RIKER
(continuing)
You do this every day?
WORF
No -- usually my calisthenics are
more...
(he searches for the
right word, then
settles for)
... intense, but those sessions
are too personal to be shared.
RIKER
(dryly)
I'll bet they are.
28 RIKER (OPTICAL)
takes a look around at the devastation on the Holodeck
and is thankful that Worf is on his side.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - TEASER 6.
28 CONTINUED:
WORF (O.S.)
Computer. Program complete --
save.
Before Riker's eyes, THE BATTLE SCENE FADES, and all
that is left is the empty Holodeck. Worf pauses at the
door.
WORF
(continuing)
Coming Commander?
RIKER
Right behind you.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 7.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
29 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
is moving through deep space. No large planets or suns
nearby... just a Milky Way of distant suns spread
across space like a tightly woven blanket of lights.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, Stardate 42193.6.
We are on a long reach toward the
Morgana Quadrant, a section of
the galaxy which has yet to be
visited by a manned Federation
vessel. We are using the time
to further detail the charts of
this region.
30 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Jean-Luc Picard and Riker stand beside Data as he moves
his fingers across the console. The SOUND VARIES,
SLIDING UP AND DOWN ERRATICALLY IN PITCH AND INTENSITY.
Troi stands nearby listening thoughtfully.
DATA
There it is again. An area of
"blackness."
RIKER
It appears, then disappears, then
reappears. There is no
predictable pattern -- no sequence.
Data moves his fingers across the console again.
PICARD
On screen.
They all turn to look.
31 FULL SHOT FAVORING THE MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
The picture on the Main Viewer shows a field of stars.
RIKER
There it is.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 8.
31 CONTINUED:
PICARD
I can't see anything. Magnify
section two-eight-five.
The viewscreen changes. Now we can see a slight "spot"
on the Main Viewer.
WESLEY
There -- it looks like a "hole"
in space.
PICARD
We're acquainted with the
"wormhole" phenomenon. This
appears quite different.
32 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Picard studies the Main Viewer for a beat, then:
PICARD
What do sensors indicate?
DATA
Nothing.
RIKER
Nothing?
PICARD
I'm sure you must mean it's empty
of matter, Mister Data. There
is always some energy form at
work...
DATA
Sir, our sensors are showing that
to be an absence of everything.
It is a void without matter or
energy of any kind.
RIKER
Yet, this "hole" has a form, Data.
It has height, width...
DATA
Perhaps. Perhaps not.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 9.
32 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(to Data)
That is hardly a scientific
observation, Commander.
DATA
Sir, the most elementary and
valuable statement in science...
the beginning of wisdom... is:
"I do not know."
(indicates viewscreen)
I do not know what that is.
WESLEY
Captain, if this were any ordinary
kind of hole in space...
(indicates)
... wouldn't we be able to see
what's behind it?
Obviously, this is a very good question. Picard turns
to Troi.
PICARD
Counselor?
TROI
I can feel nothing from it, sir,
if that's what you're asking.
Picard eases himself down in his chair, and sits
studying the viewscreen... puzzled.
RIKER
Data -- is there any record of any
occurrence even vaguely similar
to this?
PICARD
"Similar" in even the slightest
way.
DATA
Accessing.
(he pauses a moment)
Negative. There is no record of
any Federation vessel encountering
anything remotely like this.
PICARD
I believe we have time for a
closer look, Number One.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 10.
32 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
Concur.
(to Wesley)
Ensign, slow to one-half impulse.
Adjust course to intercept this...
this whatever it is.
PICARD
Scanning and recording as we go.
WESLEY
Changing course to intercept in...
in twelve minutes, sir.
33 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
moves slowly forward under impulse power toward the
large black area in the field of stars.
34 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard stands watching the viewscreen as the void on
the screen grows larger. Riker is at the science
consoles in the Aft Station. Data is busy at Ops.
PICARD
Let's send a probe into it.
RIKER
Worf, prepare a scanner probe.
Let's see what's in there.
PICARD
(to Wesley)
Close enough, Ensign. Hold this
position.
WESLEY
Aye, sir. Holding this position.
Picard gives Riker a slight nod.
RIKER
You may launch the probe when
ready, Mister Worf.
Worf makes the necessary moves on his console to launch
the probe.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 11.
35 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
floats off the outer edge of the void. The probe is
launched. It heads straight into the center of the
great emptiness.
36 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard, Riker and Worf stand watching the viewscreen as
the fiery tail of the probe diminishes in the distance.
Data monitors the instruments. We can HEAR THE FAINT
HISS OF THE TELEMETRY as it is received.
DATA
All the probe's systems are
functioning perfectly.
Suddenly the probe just disappears. The SOUNDS OF
TELEMETRY STOP.
WORF
It's gone.
PICARD
What happened, Data?
DATA
Unknown.
WORF
(to Picard)
Recommend we go to a Yellow Alert,
sir.
PICARD
(puzzled)
Why?
WORF
(hesitates, then)
Sorry, sir, it's...
PICARD
Explain.
Worf is definitely uncomfortable now. Clearly, he
would like to avoid this entire subject now. Picard
continues gently:
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 12.
36 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(continuing)
This starship operates best,
Mister Worf, when we all know what
is on each other's minds.
WORF
(uncomfortably)
My thoughts... were of an old
Klingon legend of... of a gigantic
black space creature which was
said to devour entire vessels...
RIKER
(genuinely surprised)
Devours vessels?
WORF
Sorry, Commander. I agree that
these are thoughts hardly worthy
of a trained and practical
security officer.
There is a round of silence. Worf is completely
miserable. Then to Worf, ignoring his previous
statement.
PICARD
Launch another probe, Mister Worf.
This time a Class One with full
sensor array.
Worf does something on his panel, then:
WORF
Launching, sir.
37 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as the second probe is launched. It too disappears
even sooner after it enters the void.
38 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
All are still studying the viewscreen.
RIKER
Happened even more quickly.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 13.
38 CONTINUED:
WORF
Recommend we fire a photon
torpedo, Captain.
PICARD
(eyes Worf, then)
Negative.
WESLEY
Captain, based on where the probes
disappeared... I have been able
to plot the outer boundaries.
I could move in closer.
Picard thinks about it, then decides.
PICARD
Take us in, Mister Crusher.
Thrusters only.
39 OMITTED
40 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard stands looking at the viewscreen.
PICARD
Data?
DATA
Still no readings of any kind,
sir.
Picard paces to where Riker stands in the Aft Station.
The black void almost fills the screen of the Main
Viewer.
PICARD
Number One?
RIKER
I'll agree with Worf at this
point, sir. Let's be careful.
Worf looks grateful. Picard paces forward, studying
the viewscreen.
41 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
moves closer to the dark, dead, void.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT ONE 14.
42 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard stands looking at the dark screen, then around
the silent bridge.
The dark void filling the screen. The familiar SOUNDS
OF THE BRIDGE BEGIN TO FADE... RADIO SIGNALS,
TELEMETRY, EVERYTHING...
RIKER
What's happened?
PICARD
Data?
Data looks at his console for a moment, then...
DATA
Whatever it was... or whatever
it is... we seem to be inside of
it.
Picard returns to his Command Chair, as Riker takes
the chair beside him.
RIKER
Didn't that happen a bit suddenly,
sir?
PICARD
All stations, report!
43 ANGLE - THE COMPUTER MONITORS
Some of the screens fade and go blank. Reactions as:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 15.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
44 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
is isolated in a void, totally empty of stars.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental.
While exploring a strange area
in space without any form of
matter or energy...
45 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Data at Ops, somewhat puzzled by the feedback he is
receiving. Riker is busy at a panel while Picard
stands looking at the viewscreen.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... a total void, we have
unexpectedly seemed to enter it.
Apparently we moved past its
mysterious outer boundary.
Riker looks up from the panel.
RIKER
All stations have reported,
Captain. There seems to be no
immediate threat to our ship or
crew.
As Riker stands looking at the dark viewscreen, Picard
moves up to stand beside him.
PICARD
In which case, let's hold position
for awhile, Number One. This is
worth studying.
RIKER
Incredible. It's like looking
off into... infinity, sir.
(turns to Picard)
Remember the course in ancient
history at Starfleet Academy?
Back to the time when men still
believed the Earth was flat?
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 16.
45 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(smiles)
And that the sun revolved around
the Earth...
RIKER
And if a ship sailed too far out
into the ocean it would fall off
the edge of the world...
Riker turns back to look at the empty void on the
viewscreen.
PICARD
"Beyond this place there be
dragons."
RIKER
Data -- how long to complete your
scans? Let's not stay any longer
than we have to.
Riker starts for Science One as PULASKI enters from the
turbolift and stands looking at the activity on the
bridge. Pulaski crosses to stand beside Picard.
WESLEY
Captain, we have no communications
outside of the void.
WORF
Confirm! We are now receiving
no signals of any kind.
PICARD
Hello, Doctor. You've been
briefed on what's happened?
PULASKI
I've heard, Captain. But I don't
understand it.
PICARD
I wish I could say I did.
(to Data)
Increase magnification by ten.
Data punches in the command. The viewscreen remains
dark.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 17.
45 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
(continuing)
By one hundred!
Nothing. The viewscreen remains dark.
PULASKI
I'm not a bridge officer, but
isn't this... "impossible," sir?
Picard gives Pulaski a "be my guest" gesture.
PULASKI
(continuing)
Increase by one thousand, Mister
Data.
(waits)
By ten thousand.
There's no change on the Main Viewer. Pulaski turns
to Picard.
PULASKI
(continuing; indicates
Data)
It does know how to do these
things, doesn't it?
PICARD
Commander Data knows precisely
what he is doing.
Pulaski looks up quickly at Data, then turns to see
that the Captain's expression is as cold.
PULASKI
Forgive me, Mister Data. I'm not
accustomed to working with... with
non-living devices that...
(stops, bites off her
words)
Forgive me again. Your service
record says that you are alive
and I must accept that.
PICARD
Engineering!
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Engineering, aye.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 18.
46 INTERCUT - GEORDI'S OFFICE AS NECESSARY
PICARD
Lieutenant, are your systems
functioning?
GEORDI
Yes, sir. Wherever we are, sir,
it seems to have no effect on any
Engineering function.
PICARD
Thank you, Lieutenant.
47 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard's interest in this occurrence is waning fast.
PICARD
Data?
DATA
Difficult to make a judgment based
on the absence of information.
PICARD
Speculate.
DATA
The obvious hypothesis is
equivocal. This void has a total
lack of dimension. Therefore by
any accepted standard it does not
exist, yet being within it denies
that conclusion.
Picard looks to Pulaski.
RIKER
Then maybe we've moved into
another dimension?
DATA
Could a lack of dimension be
another dimension in itself?
Pulaski gives Data a quick look of respect.
PULASKI
That's an interesting question.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 19.
47 CONTINUED:
PICARD
For a later discussion. It's
time we got on with our mission,
Number One. Starfleet can send
out a science vessel to
investigate further. Let's move
back out of this.
RIKER
Aye, sir.
(to Wesley)
Reverse our direction and set a
course for the Cornelian star
system. Warp two.
WESLEY
Reversing direction, sir.
(adjusts controls)
Course laid in.
RIKER
Engage.
Wesley punches in the command.
48 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
We can see only the ship and the darkness of space.
49 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard seems to relax a little, leaning back to watch
for the reappearance of the stars. Nothing happens
and he looks questioningly toward Riker.
RIKER
(to Wesley)
Our engines have engaged, haven't
they, Ensign?
WESLEY
Aye, sir.
50 INT. GEORDI'S OFFICE
Geordi, moving between the wall panel and the center
block computers. He waits as if expecting something.
Then he turns to his intercom:
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 20.
50 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Everything all right up there,
Captain?
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Are the engines operating
normally, Engineer?
GEORDI
Everything looks fine here, sir.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
We're increasing to warp four,
Engineer.
We HEAR a slightly higher level of engine sound, then:
GEORDI
We now show warp four, Captain.
51 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The situation is still the same. The viewscreen is
completely dark with Picard, Riker, and the others
looking toward it nervously, puzzled.
PICARD
We should be seeing stars by now,
Data. How far have we come?
DATA
Inertial guidance shows seven
parsecs traveled, Captain.
PICARD
Ensign Crusher?
WESLEY
Confirm, sir. Exactly what my
readings say.
52 ANGLE ACROSS MAIN BRIDGE
to include GEORDI entering, crosses to his bridge
Engineering Station.
GEORDI
Engineering, transfer to bridge.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 21.
52 CONTINUED:
The engineering console lights up. Geordi now looks up
to Main Viewer.
GEORDI
(continuing)
What's happening, sir? I thought
we should have broken clear.
53 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
ON Picard.
RIKER
We should have. We're on a
reverse course.
PICARD
Full stop, helm.
WESLEY
Full stop, sir.
Picard rises and paces for a moment. Picard looks down
at Wesley's console.
PICARD
According to this we're well past
the point we entered the void.
DATA
Except that we are still in it,
sir.
54 WIDER ANGLE
Data works his console for a moment...
DATA
Captain... if we dropped a
stationary beacon and navigated
straight away from it, we would
have a fixed point of reference
to confirm speed and distance.
PICARD
Make it so, Data. Lock onto the
beacon, and keep it dead astern.
Data and Wesley punch in the instructions. A moment
later the SOUND OF THE ELECTRONIC SIGNAL is heard.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 22.
54 CONTINUED:
DATA
The beacon is in place, Captain.
PICARD
Dead ahead. Impulse power.
Picard settles back in his chair as Geordi punches in
the commands and the ship begins to move. The
ELECTRONIC SIGNAL FROM THE BEACON BEGINS TO DIMINISH
IN AMPLITUDE as the ship moves away from the beacon.
DATA
The beacon is falling astern.
PICARD
Engineering, report.
55 GEORDI'S AFT BRIDGE STATION (OPTICAL)
Geordi, at his instruments, taking readings.
GEORDI
All systems normal, sir.
Everyone looking to Picard.
PICARD
Prepare to increase to warp two.
WESLEY
Aye, sir.
A moment later we can HEAR THE SOUND OF ANOTHER
ELECTRONIC SIGNAL overlapping the beacon. It is a
different frequency. (Caused by the Doppler Effect.)
DATA
Captain, we are receiving a signal
from dead ahead.
PULASKI
Maybe you've found the door out
of this.
As the FIRST SIGNAL DIMINISHES, the SECOND SIGNAL
INCREASES in intensity.
DATA
We are closing on the new signal,
Captain.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 23.
55 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Identify.
Data does a check... and recheck of the signal.
DATA
Captain, it is the stationary
beacon we just released.
RIKER
We must have come full circle,
sir.
WESLEY
We couldn't have, sir. I've shown
us steadily moving away from that
beacon.
PICARD
All stop; hold position again.
RIKER
(indicating the
viewscreen)
Look.
Picard moves toward the Main Viewer. The nothingness
of the void has been replaced. The Enterprise is now
bathed in a soft ever-changing glow, which is beautiful
to look at and somehow very comforting.
56 WORF
His head comes up from his sensors.
WORF
Captain, sensors indicate a
disturbance in sector one-zero-
eight. Possibly a vessel.
Reactions from Picard and the others.
PICARD
Perhaps some answers at last.
On screen.
WORF
The ship is equipped with a
cloaking device.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 24.
56 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Romulan!
WORF
It's closing.
RIKER
Shields up. Go to Red Alert!
PULASKI
I'll be at my duty station in
Sickbay.
She exits.
57 FAVOR MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
There is a distortion --
WORF
It's uncloaking.
RIKER
Arm your photon torpedoes, Mister
Worf.
PICARD
Hold for my orders.
WESLEY
There!
As the Romulan vessel becomes visible, IT FIRES --
without warning.
58 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
as the ship is rocked by the barrage.
WORF
Direct hits, sir. Our shields
are weakening.
PICARD
Warn them we'll return fire.
WORF
Transmitting.
Picard waits; Riker throws him a concerned look.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 25.
58 CONTINUED:
WORF
(continuing)
They've armed another full spread,
sir.
PICARD
Fire torpedoes.
59 OMITTED
60 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The PHOTON TORPEDOES streak toward the Romulan ship.
THEY HIT, as the Romulan ship explodes.
61 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
alone again in the void.
62 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
There is a moment of victory.
PICARD
That was too easy.
RIKER
Yes.
DATA
Captain, sensors can locate no
debris from the Romulan ship.
Before the captain can respond...
WORF
Captain, there is another vessel
approaching -- sector zero-nine-
one, mark, two-six.
PICARD
Specifics.
WORF
On screen.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 26.
63 ANGLE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
The picture of a ship MATERIALIZES on the viewscreen.
PICARD
Magnify.
RIKER
It's a Federation ship.
(reading the number)
N-C-C... one-three-oh-five dash
E. It is the USS Yamato, our
sister ship.
WESLEY
The Yamato is nowhere near this
quadrant.
PICARD
Open a hailing frequency, Data....
Data punches in the information.
DATA
This is the USS Enterprise to...
USS Yamato. Respond, please...
Nothing.
DATA
(continuing)
This is the USS Enterprise calling
USS Yamato. Please respond on
this frequency.
They all watch the Main Viewer.
DATA
(continuing)
No response, Captain.
PICARD
Make a full scan.
DATA
Life support system -- engineering
and propulsion all seem
functional.
(turns; reacts at a
reading)
But there are no life signs over
there, sir.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT TWO 27.
63 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Can we be getting a false
reading, Data?
DATA
Since we know nothing at all about
these circumstances, that is...
at least, conceivable, sir.
RIKER
(to Picard)
You look doubtful, sir.
PICARD
I'm not anything right now, Number
One. I'm just a man looking for
answers.
GEORDI
(to Data; quietly)
Like the rat said -- "Keep the
cheese, I just want out of the
trap."
Picard overhears and flashes Geordi a look that
silences him.
RIKER
Captain, request permission to
board the Yamato with an away
team. There might be something
onboard -- in the logs -- which will
at least tell us what happened.
PICARD
Granted. Minimum complement.
Riker stands, heads for the turbolift.
RIKER
Worf. You're with me.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 28.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
64 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND THE USS YAMATO
(OPTICAL)
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. We
remain like a fly in amber trapped
in the void. We have encountered
a vessel which appears to be the
USS Yamato. All its systems are
shown as functioning, yet it seems
devoid of life. Commander Riker
is leading an away team --
hopefully the answer lies over
there.
65 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Worf steps onto the Transporter Pad. Riker, checking
the transporter console, speaks to the TRANSPORTER
CHIEF.
RIKER
Do you have a lock on that other
ship?
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
Aye, sir. No problems at all.
Riker crosses to the raised platform to join Worf.
RIKER
Can you put us on the bridge?
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
Anywhere you say, Commander.
WORF
I am acquainted with the Yamato,
Commander. Recommend the Aft
Station of their bridge. When
in doubt, surprise them.
RIKER
Them? Who's them?
WORF
Whoever may be there.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 29.
65 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Sensors show no life signs.
WORF
Still, the tactic is sound.
RIKER
Agreed.
(to Transporter Chief)
Aft Station.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
Aye, sir.
RIKER
Phasers on stun, Lieutenant Worf.
Phasers are set.
RIKER
(continuing; to
Transporter Chief)
Energize.
Riker and Worf SPARKLE AWAY.
66 INT. USS YAMATO - CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)
as Riker -- without Worf -- STACKS UP. It looks like
the Enterprise, as it should because it is the sister
ship -- but the lighting is weird -- and:
RIKER
(the obvious)
This isn't the bridge.
He turns, expecting to see Worf -- but he's alone.
Almost before Riker can react he hears a sound down the
darkened corridor. A growl -- above which he hears
Worf's roar.
66A ANOTHER ANGLE
as Riker heads down the corridor -- the lighting here is
much darker. Very ominous -- in the shadows -- we see
FORMS. Threatening -- again WE HEAR WORF. This time
IN PAIN. Riker, without hesitation -- charges forward.
Ready to combat whatever attempts to block his path.
It looks like a gauntlet of terror.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 30.
66B RIKER
moves forward -- phaser ready. Suddenly, in the
darkness a large form appears. It's armed and moving
toward him. Riker hesitates -- then screams out:
RIKER
No -- don't fire.
The figure is on him -- the light hits the creature's
face. IT'S WORF!
WORF
I heard you screaming. I was
coming to help.
RIKER
Help me? But I heard you cry out.
Riker realizes something bizarre is going on.
RIKER
(touches his
communicator)
Transporter Chief, where do you
show us over here?
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
We show... as approximately...
The communication garbles and cuts out.
RIKER
Captain, do you read me?...
67 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
Picard becomes concerned, as:
RIKER'S COM VOICE
... having difficulties...
The communication garbles and cuts out.
PICARD
Number One, come in!
He pauses -- there is no response.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 31.
67 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(continuing)
Transporter Room, this is the
captain. We are out of contact
with the away team. Beam them
back, immediately.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
I have lost the lock on them.
68 INT. USS YAMATO - CORRIDOR
Riker, inspecting the corridor walls closely with his
tricorder. Worf, touching his insignia.
WORF
Nothing on my communicator, sir.
Worf steps over to a com panel on the corridor wall.
WORF
(continuing)
Computer, on.
Nothing happens.
RIKER
(looks around)
Let's find a turbolift to the
bridge.
69 OMITTED
70 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
Picard is at his command station, very concerned.
PICARD
Transporter Room -- have you been
able to establish a lock?
Picard gets no answer. Then suddenly the bridge goes
DARK. Every system shuts off -- the emergency lights
come on. Everyone remains at their station -- tension
but no panic.
PICARD
Initiate full check -- all
systems.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 32.
71 ANGLE ON GEORDI
at bridge Engineering Station.
GEORDI
Engineering section, report. What
is our situation?
There is no response.
72
thru OMITTED
83
A84 INT. USS YAMATO - CORRIDOR
As Riker and Worf approach the turbolift, Riker scans
the corridor wall with his tricorder.
RIKER
This isn't a Federation ship.
The walls are not tritanium...
close, but it's a material beyond
our technology.
(he then leads the way
to the turbolift)
Let's get to the bridge.
Somewhere there must be an answer
to all of this.
As they approach, the turbolift doors open. Instead of
it being the turbolift, it's the bridge, weirdly
lighted. It's identical to the Enterprise, but devoid
of people.
Worf and Riker exchange looks. They cautiously enter.
B84 INT. USS YAMATO - MAIN BRIDGE
The turbolift doors close behind them. Riker then
turns as if to re-enter the turbolift. The doors open
-- but it's not the turbolift... it's a duplicate of
the bridge.
Riker and Worf again exchange looks.
RIKER
Wait -- if you go through there...
where will you be?
WORF
On the bridge.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 33.
B84 CONTINUED:
RIKER
But we are on the bridge.
WORF
Should I continue?
RIKER
Yes -- move out. Let's see what
happens.
They both step through the door.
C84 ANOTHER ANGLE - USS YAMATO SECOND BRIDGE
They have in effect:
WORF
Is it the same bridge?
RIKER
... Or did we just step from one
bridge to another bridge?
Worf crosses to another door, as Riker moves to the
center of the bridge.
C84A INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Illuminated by the emergency lights, everyone's
remaining very calm, under control. Suddenly some of
the bridge stations return to normal.
DATA
Captain! I have a star fix.
PICARD
On screen.
A small swarm of stars appears in the center of the
dark screen.
WESLEY
It's an opening, sir.
DATA
Confirm, navigation is possible.
WESLEY
Should I set a course?
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 34.
C84A CONTINUED:
PICARD
Transporter Room. Do you have
a fix on the away team?
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
Negative.
D84 INT. USS YAMATO BRIDGE - WORF
as he approaches the second set of doors. The doors
open -- and once again it's the bridge. Worf pauses.
Then steps through.
E84 RIKER
As he watches the door close behind Worf, he hears from
behind him:
WORF (O.S.)
Commander.
Riker turns. It's Worf, standing in front of the doors.
The frustration of this bizarre -- whatever it is -- can
be seen on Worf's face.
F84 IN A SERIES OF SHOTS - INTERCUT WITH RIKER'S
REACTION
Worf turns and exits - only to appear on the other side
of the bridge. He roars... rushes to another set of
doors. Exits, only to again reappear coming out of
another set of doors. Worf's emotions quickly escalate
to rage. He turns and throws himself at the doors --
hoping somehow by force to change the sequence. But
the doors open and he once again bursts out of the
doors on the opposite side of the bridge. Worf charges
for another set. He's on the verge of being out of
control. He is about to continue his manic charge,
when he catches himself.
WORF
(to himself)
At ease, Lieutenant! At EASE!
His own words calm him. He stops... but his
frustration is more difficult for him to control.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 35.
G84 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
DATA
The star fix is fading.
PICARD
Haskell, lock on to the Yamato
with the tractor beam. We leave
together.
HASKELL manipulates some controls.
HASKELL
I can't make the lock.
DATA
Captain. The star fix is fading.
PICARD
Let it go, Data.
HASKELL
But, sir, we can get out.
PICARD
Let it go.
On the viewscreen, stars fade.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
Bridge, I've re-established
contact with the away team.
WESLEY
(indicating Main Viewer)
The Yamato's beginning to fade
out, Captain.
On the Main Viewer, the USS Yamato is beginning to grow
HAZY.
85 INT. USS YAMATO - MAIN BRIDGE
Riker and Worf hurrying INTO SCENE. Riker is touching
his emblem for intercom use.
RIKER
Come in, come in Enterprise.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
Hold position, away team. I've
got you. We are bringing you
home!
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT THREE 36.
86 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
On the Main Viewer the image of the USS Yamato FADING
AWAY.
PICARD
Transporter Room, hurry!
WESLEY
Captain, it's almost gone.
Suddenly the Yamato FADES OUT.
87 OMITTED
87A INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
as Riker and Worf STACK UP. Riker steps instantly off
the pad and heads for the exit.
87B INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
as Riker and Worf step off the turbolift.
RIKER
What the hell's going on?
PICARD
Are you all right, Number One?
RIKER
Yes, but I've had it. Let's put
all this technology and computers
to work -- figure out what's going
on -- and get the hell out of
here.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 37.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
88 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE
Picard, Wesley and Troi seating themselves -- as Riker,
Data, Worf, and Pulaski seat themselves.
RIKER
(angry)
A ship that was almost the Yamato,
existing in a "hole in space,"
no crew aboard -- what's the
purpose?
DATA
Add to it an attack by a
nonexistent Romulan vessel, it
does suggest an interesting
question: "Was our away team even
over there?"
RIKER
If we weren't over there, where
the hell were we?
HASKELL
Captain, I have re-established
the star fix.
They look at the viewscreen which shows a cluster of
stars -- TWINKLING in the distance.
RIKER
Great.
Looks to Picard, who nods his approval.
RIKER
(to Wesley)
Set course -- velocity -- warp two.
WESLEY
Course and speed set.
PICARD
Engage.
There is a moment of relief as everyone feels that this
has at last come to an end.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 38.
88 CONTINUED:
DATA
I have lost contact.
PICARD
What?
HASKELL
The star fix is gone.
There is a pause as Data inputs on his computer.
DATA
Sir, it is not in the same sector.
But another opening has appeared.
PICARD
On screen.
88A ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
to favor the viewscreen. A patch of stars appears
in the swirl.
PICARD
Set a course for those stars.
Warp six.
WESLEY
Yes, sir -- warp six.
As they watch, the starfield -- which should be getting
larger -- begins to fade, and finally disappears.
DATA
I have lost the signal.
RIKER
Damn it.
PICARD
All stop.
As they watch the screen, a third and even larger field
of stars appears on the viewscreen.
DATA
Captain...
PICARD
I know Data, I can see it.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 39.
88A CONTINUED:
RIKER
This game is now wearing very
thin.
PICARD
Hold this position.
(to Troi)
Counselor, you have said you
sensed no intelligence behind all
of this. You haven't changed in
that belief?
89 OMITTED
90 EMPHASIZING TROI
She takes a moment, apparently considering Picard's
question at many levels. Then:
TROI
I'm not so certain of that now,
Captain. I do sense something
unusual about all this...
She is puzzled, troubled.
PICARD
Perhaps a different level of
consciousness?
TROI
An intelligence so vast it eluded
me? Yes, perhaps.
91
thru OMITTED
93
94 ANGLE - INCLUDING TROI AND PULASKI
both intent upon the Main Viewer image, where the star
window continues to twinkle.
PULASKI
(almost to herself)
Rats in a maze.
Troi looks over at the Doctor.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 40.
94 CONTINUED:
TROI
(quietly)
Exactly!
PICARD
Explain.
PULASKI
Everything we've been through
reminds me of a laboratory
experiment. As though something
were testing our responses to
stimuli.
PICARD
Are you suggesting we're in some
kind of laboratory?
PULASKI
Yes.
Reactions.
95 ANGLE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
where the starfield grows larger.
WESLEY
The opening seems closer,
Captain.
PICARD
We're finished with being led
about this way.
RIKER
Agreed, Captain. Hold present
position.
96 OMITTED
97 COMMAND AREA
as the images try to tempt Picard away from his
decision. Troi nods.
TROI
Good. Don't satisfy its
curiosity.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 41.
98 EMPHASIZING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
Suddenly, a visage like the bridge crew has never
seen! A great human eye is peering in.
99 PANNING WORF (OPTICAL)
who has leapt down from his bridge level, major phaser
in hand as if to protect the rest of the bridge crew.
But now facing the strange IMAGE with phaser in hand,
Worf seems uncertain what to do next.
NAGILUM
Why are you so alarmed when I've
gone to such trouble to look just
like you?
100 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Riker speaks calmly to the security lieutenant.
RIKER
Return to your position,
Lieutenant.
WORF
Sir... ?
DATA
Captain, sensors show nothing out
there. Absolutely nothing.
GEORDI
(half to self)
It's a damned ugly nothing.
PICARD
I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard of
the USS Enterprise.
(firmer now)
... representing a Federation of
planets in this part of the
galaxy.
(waits)
Can you identify whoever or
whatever you are?
NAGILUM
NAGILUM!
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 42.
100 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(to Data; quietly)
Speaks right out for something
your sensors say isn't there,
Data.
PICARD
We've still no idea of what you
represent.
Nagilum's eyes have seemed to center on Data. Its
voice MODERATES.
NAGILUM
"Data."
DATA
Nagilum?
NAGILUM
You are of different construction
than the others. Interesting.
Worf has lowered his phaser, but stays very alert as
he returns to his security position. Meanwhile,
Nagilum's eyes seem to move from one bridge crewmember
to another.
NAGILUM
(continuing)
Picard... Riker... Geordi...
Wesley...
Pulaski is suddenly moved forward as if shoved by an
invisible hand. Whatever the nature of the force, it
twirls her around for inspection.
NAGILUM
(continuing)
What are you? Your construction
also differs.
PULASKI
My "construction"... ?
DATA
Perhaps referring to your gender.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 43.
100 CONTINUED: (2)
PULASKI
Yes, I see...
(toward the viewscreen)
There are minor differences. I
am what we call a "female."
Pulaski is "shoved" forward as suddenly, then turned
around for inspection.
NAGILUM
I understand. The masculine and
the feminine.
PICARD
It is the way in which we
propagate our species.
NAGILUM
Please demonstrate how this is
accomplished.
PULASKI
Not likely.
PICARD
Whatever you are, your actions
are not welcome.
WORF
Let me put up the shields, sir.
DATA
Our sensors do not show anything
there, Worf.
101
thru OMITTED
102
103 INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
where Nagilum still seems to peer in through the Main
Viewer. Its eyes now move to Picard.
NAGILUM
Your life-form surprises me more
and more. Is it also true that
you have only a limited existence?
(waits, then)
Answer!
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 44.
103 CONTINUED:
PICARD
What information do you want?
I don't understand the question.
NAGILUM
You exist -- and then you cease
to exist. Your minds call it
"death."
At that moment, there is a CRY OF PAIN from the Aft
Section -- and they turn. Holding his head as though
it were about to explode, HASKELL staggers back from
the damaged console. He screams again.
NAGILUM
(continuing)
How interesting.
104 ANGLE - FAVORING HASKELL
Haskell sinks to his knees, moaning in agony... then
pitches forward and lies still. Doctor Pulaski has
been hurrying toward him, now kneels and checks his
vital signs. She uses a power-hypo on him once, twice.
Then she shakes her head to Picard.
105 ANOTHER ANGLE
Worf has moved in fast too, kneels.
WORF
Sickbay?
PULASKI
It won't help. The body is
already cold.
106 ANGLE - FAVORING PICARD AND NAGILUM (OPTICAL)
as Picard turns angrily toward the Main Viewer.
PICARD
We cannot allow you to do that!
We'll fight you...
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FOUR 45.
106 CONTINUED:
NAGILUM
(interrupting; VOICE
BOOMING)
To understand death, I must amass
information on every aspect of
it, every kind of dying. The
experiments shouldn't take more
than a third of your crew, maybe
half.
OFF reactions:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 46.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
107 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
with the same distant cluster of stars.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, Stardate 42194.7.
It is obvious that whatever we
have met sees no value in our kind
of life-form. How do we fight
something that both is...
108 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Geordi, Troi, Pulaski, and Worf
are in conference.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... and is not there?
TROI
I can sense this much. We are
unimportant to it.
WORF
In a battle for survival, Captain,
thirty to fifty percent
casualties...
PULASKI
... Would be appalling...
WORF
... But within acceptable limits.
RIKER
This is not a battle, Lieutenant.
TROI
A "laboratory experiment" would
be the closest comparison.
PICARD
Is there any reason for not
believing this Nagilum?
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 47.
108 CONTINUED:
TROI
No.
DATA
All evidence indicates he is
willing and able to do what he
proposes.
PICARD
Agreed. Under the circumstances
-- there is only one decision.
I will not stand by and watch
while half of my crew is
slaughtered.
DATA
Sir... I do not believe there is
anything you can do to prevent
it.
PICARD
No. But I can control it.
PULASKI
How?
PICARD
By destroying the Enterprise.
PULASKI
(to Picard)
Isn't that like curing the disease
by killing the patient?
RIKER
At least it's better than
standing by helplessly and dying.
PULASKI
Why do I feel this may not have
been the best time to join this
ship? I'll be in Sickbay if I'm
needed.
Pulaski exits. Data, Troi and Geordi rise and go out
after her. Wesley and Worf start out. Worf pauses at
the door:
WORF
I will be at my station, Captain.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 48.
108 CONTINUED: (2)
Picard and Riker remain at the table... each with his
own thoughts. Then they both rise and go out...
109 INT. CORRIDOR
The door to the turbolift opens. Picard and Riker step
out.
110 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING
Picard and Riker enter the Engineering Section and move
to either side of the console. After a beat, Picard
reaches out and places his hand on the panel.
COMPUTER VOICE
Recognize Picard... Jean-Luc...
Riker places his hand on the opposite panel.
COMPUTER VOICE)
(continuing)
Recognize Riker... William T.
PICARD
Initiate auto-destruct sequence.
COMPUTER VOICE
Does Riker... William T. concur?
RIKER
I do. Initiate auto-destruct
sequence.
COMPUTER VOICE
What is the desired time interval?
PICARD
Stand by.
(turns to Riker)
Interesting question. How long
to prepare to die?
RIKER
Which is the least painful to our
crew? Move to it quickly? Or
take time to prepare for it
thoroughly?
They sit silently for a moment.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 49.
110 CONTINUED:
RIKER)
(continuing)
Hell, twenty minutes sounds like
a nice round figure. Can we do
that?
PICARD
The latest program allows it.
They exchange a look. Picard turns to the computer.
PICARD)
(continuing)
Initiate auto-destruct in twenty
minutes.
Picard and Riker turn to leave as the clock begins its
electronic countdown to auto-destruct.
COMPUTER VOICE
Twenty minutes to auto-destruct,
mark.
They exit. Then, in the empty room:
COMPUTER VOICE
(continuing)
Nineteen minutes, fifty seconds...
111 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
hovering in space with the still-distant star
patterns.
112 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS
The captain is lying on his bunk, staring at the
ceiling as DEBUSSY'S "CLAIR DE LUNE" PLAYS. CAMERA
MOVES IN to examine the expressions passing over
Picard's features as he listens. After several moments
of this, his door CHIME SOUNDS.
PICARD
Come.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 50.
113 TO INCLUDE TROI
entering as if hesitant to disturb the captain at this
time. Picard straightens into a sitting position,
looks questioningly at her.
TROI
Our destroying ourselves won't
change its mind. I could feel
that.
PICARD
(somewhat surprised)
You didn't mention you were that
certain.
TROI
I was wrong not to tell you,
Captain. And your decision may
also be wrong.
Picard starts to say something, but it's INTERRUPTED
BY ANOTHER SOUND from the door.
PICARD
Yes? Come in, please.
114 TO INCLUDE DATA
as he enters, hesitant too.
DATA
I have a question, sir.
(sits)
What is death?
PICARD
You've picked probably the most
difficult of all questions, Data.
There is the beginning of a twinkle in Picard's eyes
again. It is the sort of question that his mind loves.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 51.
114 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(continuing)
Some explain it by inventing
gods wearing their own form...
and argue that the purpose of the
entire universe is to maintain
themselves in their present form
in an Earth-like garden which
will give them pleasure through
all eternity. And at the other
extreme, assuming that is an
"extreme," are those who prefer
the idea of our blinking into
nothingness with all our
experiences, hopes and dreams only
an illusion.
DATA
Which do you believe?
114A CLOSE ON PICARD
considering the question.
PICARD
Considering the marvelous
complexity of our universe, its
clockwork perfection, its balances
of this against that... matter,
energy, gravitation, time,
dimension, pattern, I believe
our existence must mean more than
a meaningless illusion. I prefer
to believe that my and your
existence goes beyond Euclidian
and other "practical" measuring
systems... and that, in ways
we cannot yet fathom, our
existence is part of a reality
beyond what we understand now
as reality.
A moment of silence, then:
TROI
We should not let ourselves die,
Jean-Luc!
Picard is startled by the fact this statement comes
from Troi of all people. Geordi has ENTERED as:
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 52.
114A CONTINUED:
DATA
I agree with her, Captain.
TROI
If only half of us live, I prefer
to take my chances on being one
that does.
GEORDI
Yes. It's wrong of you to force
us into this...
DATA
It is wrong...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Yes, this is very wrong. None
of you should be reacting like
this.
115 PICARD
as he strides to the Companel on his cabin wall. CLOSE
ANGLE - as he touches it:
PICARD
Computer, locate Commander Data.
COMPUTER VOICE
Commander Data is on the bridge.
Picard turns.
116 WIDER ANGLE - PICARD AND ENTIRE CABIN
No one is there! There's a look of astonishment on
his face. Except for himself, the cabin is empty.
PICARD
It's not going to work, Nagilum.
Picard stands there, for a beat.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Captain, we are clear. We are
out of the void.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 53.
116 CONTINUED:
RIKER'S COM VOICE
It's gone, Captain -- we can abort
the auto-destruct.
PICARD
Hold, Number One.
RIKER
But...
PICARD
Hold.
As Picard exits.
COMPUTER VOICE
Fifty seconds to auto-destruct.
117 OMITTED
117A INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
There is the familiar starfield on the viewscreen as
Picard enters from the turbolift.
COMPUTER VOICE
Thirty seconds to auto-destruct.
DATA
Captain, we are clear of the
void. You may stop the
auto-destruct.
PICARD
Data, on any heading -- warp six
-- now!
117B
thru OMITTED
117C
117D EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
stretches into warp.
117E INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard's resolve is undiminished.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 54.
117E CONTINUED:
RIKER
Captain.
PICARD
I don't believe it, Number One.
It could still be part of the
illusion. Data, report.
DATA
All navigational systems confirm
-- we are at warp six -- on
course...
No one even breathes for a long moment...
COMPUTER VOICE
Ten seconds to auto-destruct.
Nine seconds. Eight seconds.
Seven seconds... Six seconds...
DATA
... to the Morgana Quadrant.
COMPUTER VOICE
Five seconds. Four seconds...
PICARD
Troi?
TROI
It's gone, Captain. I no longer
sense its presence.
PICARD
Abort auto-destruct sequence.
COMPUTER VOICE
Three seconds. Two seconds...
Riker, William T. Do you concur?
RIKER
(relieved)
Yes! Absolutely! I do indeed
concur! Wholeheartedly!
PICARD
A simple "yes" would have been
sufficient, Number One.
RIKER
I didn't want there to be any
chance of a misunderstanding.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 55.
117E CONTINUED: (2)
Picard nods, then calmly exits to his Ready Room.
GEORDI
He sure held that bluff to the
last second.
RIKER
(laughs)
What bluff?
117F INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
Picard is at his desk.
PICARD
Well, Nagilum... I hope you got
what you needed.
A moment, then the Intruder MATERIALIZES on the small
viewscreen. The image is filled with static.
NAGILUM
You have provided me with much
more than I needed...
PICARD
Why did you release us? You
could have seen how we faced
death.
NAGILUM
It wasn't necessary. I have
learned all I needed to know.
Would you like me to share some
of my conclusions?
PICARD
I'm not interested.
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 56.
117F CONTINUED:
NAGILUM
Of course you are. You are too
inquisitive not to want to know.
(he pauses)
You seem to find no tranquility
in anything. You struggle against
the inevitable. You thrive on
conflict. You are selfish, yet
you value loyalty. You are rash,
quick to judge, slow to change.
It's amazing you've survived.
Be that as it may -- as species,
we have no common ground. You
are too aggressive. Too hostile.
Too militant.
PICARD
During this period, you too have
been evaluated. It would seem
we have at least one thing in
common.
NAGILUM
Oh?
PICARD
Curiosity.
NAGILUM
The point is well taken, Captain.
Perhaps that is a trait we share.
PICARD
Then perhaps we'll meet again.
But next time, it will be out
here among the stars.
The STATIC CRACKLES Nagilum off and Picard stands for
a beat at the blank screen.
117G INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard takes his command chair.
PICARD
Put us back on course, at warp
three.
WESLEY
Warp three, sir...
STAR TREK: "Where Silence... " - 9/27/88 - ACT FIVE 57.
117G CONTINUED:
RIKER
And Ensign -- let's give any holes
a wide berth.
118 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it accelerates to warp three and disappears in the
distance.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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