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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Samaritan Snare"
#40272-143
Written by
Robert L. McCullough
Directed by
Les Landau
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 1989 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
3RD REVISED FINAL DRAFT
MARCH 8, 1989
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/7/89 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Samaritan Snare"
CAST
PICARD GREBNEDLOG
RIKER REGINOD
DATA
PULASKI SURGEON
TROI BIOMOLECULAR
PHYSIOLOGIST
GEORDI
WORF
WESLEY
Non-Speaking
SONYA SEVERAL PAKLEDS
TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.) NURSES
MEDICAL TEAM
Non-Speaking ANESTHESIOLOGIST
N.D. CREWMEMBERS ORDERLIES
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/7/89 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Samaritan Snare"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
SICKBAY/PULASKI'S OFFICE SHUTTLE TWO
SHUTTLE BAY TWO
CORRIDOR MONDOR
TRANSPORTER ROOM
OBSERVATION LOUNGE STARBASE 515
MAIN ENGINEERING MEDICAL COMPLEX
MONDOR
BRIDGE
WEAPONS BAY
SHUTTLE TWO
STARBASE SCYLLA 515
SURGICAL SUITE
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare - 3/7/89 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Samaritan Snare"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
RHOMBOID DRONEGAR SECTOR Romboyd DRAWN-i-gar
PAKLED PACK-led
GREBNEDLOG Greb-NED-log
REGINOD REGG-in-odd
BONESTELL BONE-stel
NAUSICAAN NAW-sik-can
THORACIC POLYCHROMATICS thu-RAS-ik
poly-kro-MAT-iks
HETEROCYCLIC DECLINATION het-ah-row-SYK-lik
dek-lah-NAY-shun
MYOCARDIAL ENZYME my-ah-CARD-ee-el
EN-zime
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Samaritan Snare"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Cruises at warp speed as we hear:
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, Stardate 42723.8.
The Enterprise is en route to the
Epsilon Nine Sector for
astronomical survey of a new
pulsar cluster. In the meantime,
Ensign Crusher will be diverting
to Starbase five one five for
progressive Starfleet exams...
2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - THE TURBOLIFT DOORS
open and WESLEY enters the bridge, where RIKER, DATA,
and WORF are at their usual stations, supernumeraries
filling in as needed. Wesley steps up to Riker, who
hands him a Starfleet communications rectangle.
RIKER
This just came in from Starfleet--
WESLEY
(taking the disk)
The testing parameters?
Data steps up to them:
DATA
Do not be apprehensive. I found
the Academy examinations quite
elementary.
WESLEY
You would.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Your earlier test results were
good enough to get you Academy
credit for your work here. I
don't think you have anything to
worry about.
WESLEY
But those Academy cadets are
pretty competitive, you know.
RIKER
They don't have your practical
experience, Wes.
DATA
Commander Riker is correct. While
the information imparted to cadets
at the Academy is unquestionably
vital for prospective Starfleet
officers, it nevertheless requires
a significant period of
supplementary systems training
and situational disciplines.
RIKER
Data... isn't that what I just
said?
DATA
Yes, Commander. But not quite
as perspicuously.
Riker and Wesley react to that as we GO TO:
3 INT. SICKBAY/PULASKI'S OFFICE - PICARD
paces in front of PULASKI, obviously being evasive:
PICARD
I won't have you telling me what
course to set!
PULASKI
As chief medical officer, I am
ordering you to report to Starbase
five one five immediately!
PICARD
Oh, please. I feel fine.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 3.
3 CONTINUED:
PULASKI
The truth is, you've neglected
this far too long.
PICARD
This ship has a mission to carry
out.
PULASKI
An astronomical survey to be
conducted by the science officers,
I believe.
PICARD
I've been looking forward to
seeing the Epsilon Pulsar Cluster
for myself.
PULASKI
Then we'll perform the procedure
right here.
PICARD
Absolutely not.
PULASKI
My staff and I are perfectly
capable of giving you the
replacement.
PICARD
That's not the point. Not only
am I in splendid health, but it
would be inappropriate for you
to perform the procedure.
PULASKI
Why Captain Picard, I had no idea.
You do have an ego, don't you?
PICARD
Clarify.
PULASKI
You're concerned about your image.
PICARD
I never said that.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 4.
3 CONTINUED: (2)
PULASKI
Don't worry. Get yourself down
to Starbase five one five and your
image will be safe with me.
He reacts to that, exiting as we GO TO:
4 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - THE TURBOLIFT DOORS
open and Picard steps out, nearly bumping into Wesley
who was about to enter the turbolift:
WESLEY
Captain... excuse me.
PICARD
I understand you're heading for
Starbase five one five.
WESLEY
Yes, sir. I was just on my way
to Shuttle Bay Two.
PICARD
Good. I have some business of
my own there. I shall accompany.
you.
Wesley reacts, eyes widening, his voice cracking:
WESLEY
You will?
(then, composing
himself)
I mean, yessir!
PICARD
Prepare the shuttle for immediate
departure.
WESLEY
Aye, sir.
Wesley exits via the turbolift; Riker reacts to all of
this, steps up to Picard.
RIKER
Is there something I can take care
of for you at Starbase
five one five?
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 5.
4 CONTINUED:
PICARD
I'm afraid not, Number One.
RIKER
But you'll miss the Epsilon Pulsar
survey.
PICARD
I'm very well aware of that. You
have the bridge. Carry on.
With that, Picard turns and exits into the Ready Room.
Riker considers all of this, shares a concerned glance
with the other bridge officers and then follows Picard
into the Ready Room as we GO TO:
4A INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM - PICARD
turns to face Riker, as the door slides shut behind
them:
PICARD
What is it, Number One?
RIKER
Is something wrong? This trip
to Starbase five one five seems
rather unexpected.
Picard smiles awkwardly, goes about the business of
picking up some reading material for his journey:
PICARD
Not to worry. Ensign Crusher and
I will rendezvous with you on your
return from the Epsilon Pulsar
Cluster.
RIKER
Forgive my saying so, sir, but
you're being rather enigmatic.
PICARD
Consider it captain's privilege.
RIKER
As first officer, I have complete
security clearance--
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 6.
4A CONTINUED:
PICARD
This has nothing to do with ship's
business.
(then, with a sigh)
Suffice it to say that this is
strictly a matter of ...vanity.
Picard heads for the door with his books and exits as
we GO TO:
5 INT. CORRIDOR - GEORDI
is on his way to Engineering with SONYA, walking with
Wesley, who is obviously worried about something:
GEORDI
Starbase five one five's not
exactly around the corner, Wes.
You have quite a trip ahead of
you.
WESLEY
Yeah. I know.
GEORDI
Relax. You'll do fine on your
exams.
WESLEY
It's not the exams I'm worried
about. It's Captain Picard.
SONYA
Why? He's not taking the exams.
WESLEY
He's coming with me to starbase.
Just the two of us. Nearly a
six-hour transit. What am I going
to talk to him about for six
hours?
SONYA
Archaeology...semantics...
literature... art... you can learn
a lot from Captain Picard.
Just then, Picard approaches:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 7.
5 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Nice day for a little trip,
Captain?
PICARD
Hardly.
Picard and Wesley head off down another corridor as
Geordi and Sonya react to Picard's mood as we GO TO:
5A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
comes out of warp, decelerating to impulse speed while
6 OMITTED
7 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - DATA
is in his "Ops" chair as he hears:
PICARD (V.O.)
Shuttle Number Two ready for
departure.
DATA
We are at impulse speed and you
are cleared for departure.
8 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
the shuttle exits the Shuttle Bay.
9 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL) - RIKER
enters from the Ready Room, looking up at the
viewscreen now to see the shuttle streaking away. He
crosses to Data:
RIKER
Data... wasn't the captain looking
forward to this mission to the
Epsilon Pulsar Cluster?
DATA
So he had said.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 8.
9 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Then what would make him change
his mind? Why would he leave the
ship now?
Data reacts to that, exchanging a concerned glance with
Riker. Suddenly, Worf pipes up with:
WORF
Receiving a Mayday on all
frequencies, sir!
RIKER
Source?
WORF
Rhomboid Dronegar Sector
zero-zero-six--
RIKER
Detail.
WORF
Ship...unidentified...distress.
Nothing more.
RIKER
Set course for Rhomboid Dronegar
zero-zero-six at warp seven.
Data looks to Riker, quietly concerned:
DATA
Sir... Rhomboid Dronegar sector
will put us at considerable
distance from Captain Picard.
RIKER
I know, Data. I know.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 9.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
9A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
flashes past at warp seven while
10 INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER
is in his chair while Data and Worf man their stations
as:
DATA
Entering Rhomboid Dronegar Sector
zero-zero-six.
WORF
I have a ship on target path.
RIKER
Slow to impulse speed.
10A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
decelerates
10B INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER
rises now:
RIKER
Viewer.
Data taps his console appropriately and
11 THE MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
comes alive with the image of an unusual alien ship.
Hardly aerodynamic, this craft appears to be something
of a throwback when contrasted to the Enterprise. It's
dead in the water. Riker approaches the screen,
curious while Worf remains cautious:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 10.
11 CONTINUED:
WORF
Deploy shields, sir?
RIKER
Hold fast.
(then)
Data?
DATA
(re: the ship)
Basic early design capable of
sub-light travel only.
WORF
Commander, we are being hailed.
RIKER
On screen.
The VIEWSCREEN image glitches for a split-second and
then comes alive with the interior of the Pakled ship.
It looks like an analog throwback to the late twenty-first
century. A number of slothful, droopy-eyed humanoids
appear to be working with great confusion on some
engineering control panels in the b.g., as their
commander, GREBNEDLOG, steps into foreground.
RIKER
I am First Officer William Riker.
This is the USS Enterprise,
responding to your distress
signal--
Grebnedlog arches his massive brow, his eyes opening
just a bit wider as he responds with typically wistful
Pakled hypoplastic speech, almost a sense of hopeful
longing in their every word:
GREBNEDLOG
Uh-hunh.
Riker exchanges a curious glance with Data, then back
to screen:
RIKER
What is your problem?
GREBNEDLOG
We are far from home.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 11.
11 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
So are we, but you sent out a
Mayday--
GREBNEDLOG
Uh-hunh
RIKER
Do you need help?
GREBNEDLOG
We are Pakleds. Our ship is the
Mondor.
(re the work in the
b.g.)
It is broken.
Riker sighs impatiently, turns to Data:
DATA
Sensors indicate engineering
problems.
RIKER
Lieutentant La Forge to bridge...
DATA
They have experienced total
guidance system failure and they
have less than twenty-four hours' reserve
power.
RIKER
(to viewscreen)
What brings you so far from home?
GREBNEDLOG
(wistfully)
We look for things.
RIKER
What were you looking for?
GREBNEDLOG
Things we need.
RIKER
Can you be more specific?
GREBNEDLOG
Uh-hunh.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 12.
11 CONTINUED: (3)
RIKER
Then please do so.
GREBNEDLOG
Things that make us go. We need
help.
In the b.g., the turbolift doors open and Geordi steps
onto the bridge, spots the viewscreen. He looks at the
Pakleds, grins wryly:
GEORDI
Let me guess: their rubber band
broke, right?
RIKER
(to viewscreen)
What is the nature of your
mission?
GREBNEDLOG
(nodding slowly)
We look for things.
RIKER
(aside; to Data)
Do you hear an echo?
(then, back to
viewscreen)
Understood. Our chief engineer
will beam aboard to help you--
(to Worf)
Out.
Geordi reacts to that as all eyes turn toward him:
GEORDI
Wait a minute... me?
And as Riker pats him reassuringly on the back, Worf
turns from his station, concern etched all over his
Klingon countenance:
WORF
(re: the viewscreen)
Do we truly need to send our chief
engineer over to them?
RIKER
They obviously need our help.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 13.
11 CONTINUED: (4)
WORF
Why do we not simply give them
the information they need to make
their repairs?
RIKER
Do you honestly think they could
handle our technical
specifications?
WORF
We don't know that much about
them. I urge caution.
RIKER
Acknowledged, Worf... but we have
an obligation to render aid.
(turns to Geordi).
Report to the Transporter Room
with all necessary gear.
GEORDI
Aye, sir.
With that, Geordi exits. Worf remains concerned, leans
in to Riker with:
WORF
We need more information.
Riker turns to Data:
RIKER
Do you have anything else on them?
DATA
They are a relatively benign
species.
RIKER
Don't they seem a little... slow?
DATA
They may merely have
poorly-developed language skills.
Worf leans in with:
WORF
What about weapons?
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 14.
11 CONTINUED: (5)
DATA
Our scan shows very limited
armaments.
RIKER
I think we can relax, Worf. They
can't even get their ship moving
without our help, and we certainly
have them outmanned and outgunned.
Worf can't argue with that as we GO TO:
12 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
hurtling past us at impulse speed while:
13 INT. THE SHUTTLE - WESLEY
handles the controls with confidence and aplomb.
Picard checks the instruments with a scowl:
PICARD
E.t.a. thirteen-thirty hours.
WESLEY
Not exactly warp speed, sir.
PICARD
More like a late twenty-second century
interplanetary journey.
WESLEY
Sir?
PICARD
You should read more history,
Ensign.
WESLEY
Yes sir.
PICARD
(mumbling to himself)
Complete waste of time...
WESLEY
Pardon, sir?
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 15.
13 CONTINUED:
PICARD
I shouldn't be taking this trip
at all. I belong back on the
Enterprise.
WESLEY
Why are you going with me to
Starbase five one five, Captain?
PICARD
(snappish)
It's certainly not my idea!
Wesley reacts, afraid to probe further. Picard glances
over at:
PICARD
(continuing)
I'm sorry. I don't mean to take
it out on you.
(then)
I just hate going through another
damned cardiac replacement.
WESLEY
Cardiac replacement? I didn't
know...
PICARD
Now you do.
WESLEY
A parthenogenetic implant?
PICARD
What else would it be?
(then, a bit softer)
My own heart was injured and a
replacement was necessary. That
would have been it except that
the replacement is flawed and must
now be put right.
WESLEY
Why would anyone use a flawed
replacement?
Picard ices over at that, glaring out at the stars
ahead now:
PICARD
Just pilot the shuttle, Ensign.
And on Picard's obdurate countenance, we GO TO:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 16.
14 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it maintains its position near the Mondor while
15 INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER
turns his attention to the viewscreen where the Pakleds
continue with their inefectual attempts at repair.
RIKER
All right. Let's get these
repairs made so we can all be on
our way.
(then)
First officer to La Forge...
16 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) - GEORDI
is on the transporter platform, "tool kit" in hand:
GEORDI
Aye, Commander. Ready for
transport.
RIKER (V.O.)
Proceed.
GEORDI
Energize...
And as Geordi DEMATERIALIZES, we GO TO:
17 INT. THE PAKLED SHIP "MONDOR" (OPTICAL) - GEORDI
MATERIALIZES, startling the Pakleds who react with
their own brand of anxiety:
GEORDI
Hey, hey, it's okay. I'm here
to help. Take it easy.
Grebnedlog approaches tentatively with what appears to
be profound, heartfelt sincerity:
GREBNEDLOG
We are far from home.
Geordi reacts to that non-sequitur, eager to get down
to business:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 17.
17 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
What seems to be the problem?
GREBNEDLOG
Our ship is the Mondor.
GEORDI
Right. I got that already.
(then, looking around)
Who's in charge of engineering?
GREBNEDLOG
My friend. His name is Reginod.
GEORDI
(looking around)
Think I could meet him?
Another Pakled steps up. Grebnedlog makes the
"introduction":
GREBNEDLOG
We have an engineer.
GEORDI
Great...
GREBNEDLOG
He is Reginod.
GEORDI
Yes, I think you mentioned that.
REGINOD
We look for things.
GEORDI
So I've heard.
REGINOD
(re the ship)
It is broken.
GEORDI
Well... maybe I can fix it.
GREBNEDLOG
Can you make our ship go?
GEORDI
I think so.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 18.
17 CONTINUED: (2)
GREBNEDLOG
(to Geordi)
We look for things to make us go.
Geordi reacts, feeling like somebody's "got their
needle stuck". He smiles patiently:
GEORDI
Fellas... why don't you show me
where your guidance system is?
Geordi starts wandering toward the back of the ship.
Reginod turns to Grebnedlog, smiling:
REGINOD
He is smart.
Grebnedlog returns the salivary smile as we GO TO:
18 INT. ENTERPRISE'S MAIN BRIDGE-TURBOLIFT DOORS (OPTICAL)
open and Troi enters the scene, immediately riveted
by what she sees up on the viewscreen. She steps over
to Riker and Data, who regard the scene with Geordi
with bemusement:
TROI
Commander... Lieutenant La Forge
is on an alien ship?
RIKER
Yes. We're rendering assistance
to some curious throwbacks.
DATA
How they ever mastered the
rudiments of space travel is a
genuine curiosity.
TROI
Commander... Those aliens... what
they feel is not helplessness
... Lieutenant La Forge is in great
danger!
Riker and Data react to that new input as
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 19.
18A GEORDI
goes about his work, unaware of any hazard as we
FADE OUT.
END ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 20.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
19 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
remains in position, in some proximity to the Mondor.
20 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - TROI
remains transfixed, Riker, Data and Worf reacting as
she stands there, staring at the viewscreen:
TROI
Danger... great danger...
RIKER
Can you be more specific,
Counselor?
TROI
They are insincere... It is not
our help they want.
RIKER
Help is all they're going to get.
They certainly can't force
anything upon us, can they?
TROI
You feel they are weak.
RIKER
(re: the viewscreen)
Look at them. Not exactly Jarada
or Romulans.
Data looks over at Riker, shares her concerns now:
DATA
Our Betazoid counselor is often
aware of things beyond our
perceptive abilities.
Riker reacts to this, exchanges a glance of concern
with Worf as we GO TO:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 21.
21 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
continues on its journey while
22 INT. THE SHUTTLE - PICARD
appears to be reading, ignoring Wesley. Then, putting
his reading down for a moment:
PICARD
Van Doren's technique has been
perfected to two point four
percent.
WESLEY
Sir?
PICARD
The cardiac replacement procedure.
It has a very low mortality rate.
Two point four percent.
WESLEY
Those are pretty good odds.
He considers that for a beat, then admits:
PICARD
The fact is, I'm not interested
in having my innards become the
subject of Starfleet gossip.
WESLEY
Of course, sir. But why didn't
you have Doctor Pulaski perform
the operation? You could've
trusted her to keep it quiet.
PICARD
Let's just say I have personal
reasons and leave it at that,
shall we?
Picard returns to his "reading". Wesley reacts, his
curiosity stifled now as we GO TO:
23 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI
is hard at work on the Pakled guidance system, really
enjoying himself. Several Pakleds including Grebnedlog
and Reginod hover nearby, observing him as he explains:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 22.
23 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
The power needs to be rerouted
through this venturi chamber
before it can be channeled through
the engine coils.
REGINOD
It is broken.
GEORDI
But not for long. See? We're
going to reconfigure these
separators here...
Reginod looks to Grebnedlog, who nods in agreement:
GREBNEDLOG
It is broken.
REGINOD
(to Geordi)
You are brilliant.
Geordi reacts, flattered, but realistic:
GEORDI
Actually, any first year
engineering intern could do the
same thing--
Just then, Geordi reacts to his communicator as he
hears:
RIKER (V.O.)
Lieutenant La Forge, this is
Commander Riker...
Geordi taps his communicator and responds:
GEORDI
Yes, Commander. Go ahead.
24 INT. THE ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Riker and Troi stand before the viewscreen, observing
Geordi aboard the Mondor:
RIKER
Are you all right?
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 23.
24 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Sure. Why do you ask?
RIKER
Counselor Troi has expressed
misgivings about your absence from
The Enterprise.
In the b.g., Grebnedlog and Reginod exchange an
uncharacteristically alert glance by way of response
to that while:
GEORDI
I don't think there's much to
worry about.
RIKER
Understood. But as soon as the
repairs are completed, I want you
back here.
GEORDI
Aye, sir, I should be done
momentarily.
Riker looks to Troi who remains unshaken in her
convictions while:
25 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI
twists the last framiss on the final spigot, looks up
with a smile:
GEORDI
There. Guidance is up and
running.
Suddenly, the lights flicker, dim, and go dark. A
GROAN is heard as reserve power kicks in, lights come
up one-half and Geordi smiles:
GEORDI
Main power failure?
GREBNEDLOG
Will our ship go now?
GEORDI
The guidance system's repaired,
but you're not going anywhere
without main power.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 24.
25 CONTINUED:
GREBNEDLOG
(to Reginod)
It is broken.
REGINOD
(to Geordi)
Can you make it go?
Geordi looks at the Pakleds, sighs heavily, then taps
his communicator:
GEORDI
Commander Riker, it looks like
this might take a little longer
than I anticipated...
And as Geordi returns to this new problem...
25A INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER AND TROI
react to that with mutually mounting concern as we go
to...
26 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
continues its impulse-speed journey while
27 INT. THE SHUTTLE - PICARD
finally puts his reading down. Rubs his eyes. It's a
long trip. He seems lost in his thoughts, somewhat
unfocused as he studies the passing starfields. At his
side, Wesley checks his instruments carefully, takes
a deep breath as all seems well. Then, building his
courage for a beat, he turns to Picard:
WESLEY
You don't really care much for
people, do you?
PICARD
What?
WESLEY
It's okay. You can just do
without most people. I can
understand that --
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 25.
27 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Ensign...Wesley. That's not true.
I have great regard for you, for
example. You're a fine young
man.
WESLEY
You don't have to say that.
PICARD
I do not say what I do not mean.
WESLEY
Well, it's pretty obvious how you
feel.
PICARD
Is it? How so?
WESLEY
Well, everyone knows. You don't
like kids.
PICARD
I simply have... other priorities.
WESLEY
That's too bad.
(then)
You might've made a pretty good
father.
PICARD
Thank you.
WESLEY
Didn't you ever wish you had kids
of your own?
A moment of silence as Picard considers that. Then:
PICARD
Wishing for a thing does not make
it so.
Wesley ponders that reality as we GO TO:
28 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
remains positioned near the Pakled ship Mondor while
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 26.
29 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Worf, Data, Troi and Riker are all in position. Riker
is beginning to lose his patience as he turns to Data:
RIKER
We send him over there for one
set of repairs and now they need
him for more.
DATA
Their ship is apparently quite
fragile.
Riker steps forward to the viewscreen where he can see
the Pakleds working on their ship, Geordi in the
distant b.g., hard at work in a console panel:
RIKER
This is Riker on board the
Enterprise.
The Pakleds ignore Riker's summons, continue milling
around looking for the solution to their myriad
problems:
RIKER
(continuing)
I repeat. This is Commander Riker
of the Enterprise.
Geordi looks up from his work briefly, calling to
Riker from the b.g.:
GEORDI
Almost got it, Commander--
He returns to his work as Grebnedlog turns to face the
viewscreen now, his eyes almost completely
disinterested:
GREBNEDLOG
We look for things.
RIKER
Apparently your ship is in need
of more than minor repairs.
GREBNEDLOG
Things to make it go.
RIKER
We will use our tractor beam to
tow you to your nearest base.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 27.
29 CONTINUED:
GREBNEDLOG
(re: Geordi)
He can make it go.
RIKER
Yes, but we need our chief
engineer back on board our ship--
Just then, all power is restored to the Pakled ship,
and as lights come full-up, Geordi pulls himself out of
the console panel in the b.g. to hear:
GREBNEDLOG
He is smart.
Geordi steps up beside Grebnedlog.
GEORDI
All done, Commander.
RIKER
Prepare to beam over.
29A INT. MONDOR BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
GEORDI
Yes, sir.
Reginod steps up behind Geordi with:
REGINOD
You are good.
GEORDI
Thanks. We aim to please.
REGINOD
We need you.
GEORDI
I'm flattered. Now I hate to
repair and run, but if you'll
excuse me...
And Geordi steps away from the others, announcing to
Riker:
GEORDI
One to beam aboard--
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 28.
29A CONTINUED:
Suddenly, Grebnedlog reaches over and with surprising
sleight-of-hand, deftly snatches Geordi's small phaser
away from him.
GEORDI
Hey!
And as Geordi reaches to take the phaser back,
Grebnedlog fires with the stun setting, knocking Geordi
back, slamming him into a bulkhead, knocking his VISOR
off:
29B RIKER (OPTICAL)
reacts immediately, calling out:
RIKER
Transporter room, beam La Forge
over immediately.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.)
Aye... negative response, sir!
RIKER
Try again!
TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.)
Negative response!
DATA
The Pakled ship has a shield up,
sir!
RIKER
A shield? What kind?
DATA
It appears to be beyond their
technology... similar to Romulan
shields!
Riker clenches his jaw, commands the Pakleds now:
RIKER
Do not interfere with our
transporter beam. Repeat. Drop
your shield--
Suddenly, the viewscreen glitches and goes to exterior
view of the Mondor.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 29.
29B CONTINUED:
RIKER
Status!
WORF
Viewer transmission terminated
and blocked.
Riker shares a look of mounting concern with his crew
as we,
FADE OUT:
END ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 30.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
30 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
remains in view of the Pakled's Mondor.
31 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER, DATA, WORF, TROI
are all in position as Riker commands his crew:
RIKER
Hail on all frequencies.
DATA
Running frequency search...
negative response.
RIKER
They're ignoring us!
DATA
Apparently so, sir.
WORF
Phasers ready, sir.
RIKER
Shields up.
Worf responds, activating his security station console,
reporting:
WORF
Shields up.
RIKER
Sensors at maximum sensitivity.
Data responds with precision, then reports:
DATA
Sensors at maximum.
WORF
Phasers ready, sir.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 31.
31 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Hold fire. Lieutenant La Forge
is on that ship.
And as Riker and his crew contemplate that grim
reality, we GO TO:
32 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
continues cruising at impulse speed while
33 INT. PICARD'S SHUTTLE - WESLEY
carefully probes, eager to learn more about Picard:
WESLEY
Were you ever married?
PICARD
My career always came first. I
never had time.
WESLEY
Don't you ever get lonely?
PICARD
There have been certain costs
involved.
WESLEY
Well, I'll bet you've broken your
fair share of hearts along the
way...
PICARD
A man needs to be careful about
that sort of thing.
WESLEY
Don't worry about me. Where women
are concerned, I'm in complete
control.
PICARD
Really? I've always had to work
at it.
WESLEY
Have you always known what you've
wanted... been so disciplined?
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 32.
33 CONTINUED:
PICARD
No.
(re his chest)
That's why I'm going in to get
this thing replaced.
WESLEY
I don't understand.
PICARD
Well... I was a young Starfleet
officer. Just a few years older
than you are now. Green as hell.
Top of my Academy Class, and oh,
so proud. Too proud, as it turned
out.
WESLEY
What happened?
PICARD
Several of us were on leave at
Far Space Starbase
Earhart... something of a galactic
outpost in those days--
WESLEY
Before the Klingons joined the
Federation?
PICARD
That's right. My mates and I were
at the Bonestell Recreation
Facility, which was nothing more
than a crossroads at the time.
A trio of Nausicaans came in.
They were spoiling for a
confrontation with some
fresh-faced young Starfleet
officers like ourselves. Everyone
in our group had the good sense
to back away and give these
Nausicaans wide berth. Everyone
but me, that is. I stood
toe-to-toe with the nastiest of
the three and let him know what
I thought of him, his partners,
and his planet. I probably even
made some passing reference to
his questionable parentage.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 33.
33 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD (Cont'd)
The next thing I knew, I had all
three of them on me and I was
fighting for my life. Acquitted
myself quite well for several
furious exchanges, I'm proud to
say.
WESLEY
You fought them? And won?
PICARD
I had this one Nausicaan down on
the floor in a particularly
devious joint-lock when before
I knew what was happening, one
of his cohorts drew his weapon
and impaled me through the back.
Strange sensation, actually. Not
much pain. Shock, certainly, at
the sight of serrated metal coming
out of one's chest, and then a
certain giddy warmth. As I
recall, I actually laughed aloud.
It pierced my heart, of course,
and if we hadn't been so near a
medical facility I would surely
have died.
WESLEY
Really? Really? Then what?
PICARD
Then nothing. I was no hero.
I was an undisciplined,
opinionated, loud-mouthed young
man who was far out of his league.
It was a great and painful lesson,
but I learned it well. I only
hope you won't need to learn it
as I did...
Wesley reacts with a gulp, realizing that he does
indeed have a lot to learn as we GO TO:
34 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND THE MONDOR (OPTICAL)
are as before while
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 34.
35 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER
paces, doing his best to keep his temper in check as he
looks to Data:
RIKER
Data, come on...
DATA
I am programming the comm system
to scan the interference patterns,
but a full analysis will take
time.
Data reacts, his hands dexterously flying over his
console like nothing we've ever seen him do before as
we GO TO:
36 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI (OPTICAL)
is hit by yet another phaser stun, slams back into a
bulkhead and then struggles to his feet, shaking off
his phaser's stun effects:
GEORDI
Please... no more.
GREBNEDLOG
This is fun.
Geordi reaches out, groping for his VISOR:
GEORDI
My VISOR...
Reginod picks it up, studies it:
REGINOD
This does something.
Geordi reacts, realizes the Pakled has the VISOR now:
GEORDI
Yes. It allows me to see.
Reginod and Grebnedlog react curiously. They wave
their digits in front of Geordi's face. He doesn't
react, reaching out for the VISOR as they keep it away
from him:
GEORDI
Where is it? Give it to me--
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 35.
36 CONTINUED:
GREBNEDLOG
Can you make us go now?
Geordi lunges for him, stumbling. Reginod realizes:
REGINOD
He cannot make us go.
GREBNEDLOG
He is not smart.
(re: the VISOR)
This is smart.
He hands the VISOR back to Geordi, and he clicks it
back into place, reacting now at the sight of his
phaser in Grebnedlog's mitt:
GEORDI
(re: the phaser)
Be careful with that thing.
GREBNEDLOG
You want to hurt us.
GEORDI
What? I came here to help you.
(re: the ship)
I fixed your guidance system and
the main power generator, didn't
I?
REGINOD
(re: the phaser)
We can make more.
Geordi reacts, realizing:
GEORDI
You have a replicator?
GREBNEDLOG
(with pride)
It is not broken.
GEORDI
I didn't come here to give you
weapons.
GREBNEDLOG
(re: the phaser, points
it at Geordi)
You will make more.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 36.
36 CONTINUED: (2)
Geordi reacts to that threat, considering his options
now as we GO TO:
37 INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - WORF
crosses to Riker with:
WORF
Commander, a photon torpedo may
penetrate their shield.
RIKER
Any hostile move on our part
would only jeopardize Geordi.
WORF
But what do the Pakleds want?
Riker glances over at Troi, hoping she has an answer:
RIKER
Counselor?
TROI
They have what they want... for
now.
Riker reacts to that as we GO TO:
38 INT. PICARD'S SHUTTLE - PICARD (OPTICAL)
thumbs through one of the books he's brought along.
Then, turning to Wesley:
PICARD
Did you read that book I gave
you?
Wesley reacts, barely concealing a grimace as he
recalls:
WESLEY
Some of it.
PICARD
That's reassuring.
WESLEY
I just don't have much time.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 37.
38 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(re the book in his
hand)
There is no greater challenge than
the study of philosophy.
Wesley glances over at Picard's book:
WESLEY
William James sure won't be on
my Starfleet exams.
PICARD
The important things never will
be. Anyone can be trained to deal
with technology, and the
mechanics of piloting a starship.
WESLEY
But Starfleet Academy--
PICARD
It takes more than just that.
Open your mind to the past... to
history, art, philosophy. And
then...
(re: the stars)
... this will mean something.
Wesley considers this, almost embarrassed as he
realizes Picard does truly care about him. Then:
PICARD
(continuing)
Just consider James' wisdom:
"Philosophy... is not a technical
matter... it is our sense of what
life honestly means... our
individual way of feeling the
total push and pressure of the
cosmos."
(then)
That's what I want for you.
Wesley reacts to that and as they move closer to
starbase, we GO TO:
39 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
hasn't moved, still in sight of the Mondor while
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 38.
40 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - TROI
steps up to Riker as she reports her feelings:
TROI
It is all deception. Lies.
RIKER
Everything? What about the
distress call?
TROI
Nothing the Pakleds have said or
done has been sincere.
Data looks up from his console:
DATA
Intensified scan shows their
guidance system is perfectly
intact, as is their power
generator.
RIKER
Then what was Geordi repairing?
DATA
Apparently, the putative
malfunctions were carefully
programmed into their ship's
computer.
RIKER
I didn't think the Pakleds had
that kind of technology.
DATA
They seem to have made some
technological leaps forward,
Commander.
RIKER
But why would they go through
the charade of needing our help?
TROI
For the sole purpose of making
Lieutenant La Forge their prisoner.
RIKER
Options?
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 39.
40 CONTINUED:
WORF
Tactically speaking, we have
three choices: we can negotiate,
attack, or simply abandon
Lieutenant La Forge.
Riker reacts to these uncomfortable options as we GO
TO:
41 EXT./INT. STARBASE 515 MEDICAL COMPLEX
Picard and Wesley approach the entrance to this
high-tech Starfleet facility:
PICARD
You don't want to be late for your
exams, Ensign.
WESLEY
I've still got some time, sir.
PICARD
Why do I get the feeling you're
acting like some kind of escort?
WESLEY
Doctor Pulaski asked me to make
sure you actually went inside.
PICARD
That woman. She would.
WESLEY
Sir?
PICARD
What is it?
WESLEY
I enjoyed our trip together.
Picard's momentarily taken aback; the young man
actually cares about him.
PICARD
So did I.
After a brief, moment of mutual feeling, Picard turns
and heads into the medical facility as we GO TO:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 40.
41A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
hovers squarely in front of the Mondor.
42 INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Riker and the others react as Data monitors his panel:
DATA
They are initiating visual
contact--
RIKER
Maybe we'll find out what the hell
they really want.
The viewscreen comes alive with the image of Grebnedlog
holding Geordi's phaser in his mitt. Reginod and the
other Pakleds all hold replicated versions of the
original now. Geordi is in the background, slowly
struggling to his feet once again, propped up by
Reginod as other Pakleds play recklessly with their
phasers. One of them takes a shot at his comrade,
missing him, like children playing with dangerous
toys. Grebnedlog turns to face the viewscreen:
GREBNEDLOG
Enterprise.
RIKER
We demand the immediate return
of our crewmember.
GREBNEDLOG
Request denied.
RIKER
Lower your shield!
GREBNEDLOG
Request denied.
With that, he turns back toward Geordi, gives him a
quick stun blast from the phaser, and as Geordi is
slammed back into the bulkhead again, he collapses in a
heap.
42A RIKER (OPTICAL)
reacts, truly beside himself with anger now:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 41.
42A CONTINUED:
RIKER
Stop it! What do you want?
GREBNEDLOG
(re: the phaser)
Your ship has bigger ones.
RIKER
For defense against attack.
GREBNEDLOG
Your ship is strong. Smart.
RIKER
Our strength contributes to peace
in this region of the galaxy.
We mean no one harm.
GREBNEDLOG
You think we are not smart.
RIKER
I think you need to continue to
develop --
GREBNEDLOG
We are smart.
RIKER
Prove it. Return our man to us.
GREBNEDLOG
(re: Geordi)
You want him?
RIKER
Yes, dammit!
GREBNEDLOG
Good. We want all computer
information from your ship.
(aims the phaser at
Geordi again)
Now.
Riker and the others react to this frightening demand
as we
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 42.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
43 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
maintains its position within sight of the Mondor while
44 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Riker, Data, Worf, Troi and Pulaski are gathered around
the table. All are grim, tense:
RIKER
We've got a man held hostage by
alien forces and all I have are
non-option options! I'd like some
input...
PULASKI
Is Geordi all right?
WORF
(bristling)
They've already hit him with
multiple phaser stuns.
PULASKI
(to Riker)
He could need medical attention.
WORF
Security team stands ready to take
the initiative, sir.
RIKER
Data?
DATA
Our options have not changed.
We can either respond to the
Pakled demand or not. We can
either use force or not.
RIKER
I've already answered their
demand. Allowing access to the
Enterprise computers by alien
forces would be a complete breech
of Starfleet security.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 43.
44 CONTINUED:
WORF
Then force it must be.
Riker reacts, considering that more seriously than ever
before now as we GO TO:
45 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - (OPTICAL)
Picard lies on an operating table, surrounded by
twenty-fourth century surgical equipment as NURSES prepare
him for his procedure. Off to one side, a MEDICAL TEAM
preps the replacement heart. The SURGEON steps up to
PICARD, reassures him:
SURGEON
Ready?
PICARD
Get on with it, Doctor. I've got
work to do.
The surgeon nods to the ANESTHESIOLOGIST:
SURGEON
Activate Sterile Field. Neural
calipers.
The anesthesiologist places a silver wire caliper to
Picard's head. The caliper receives a signal from a
small console, which the anesthesiologist now attends
to. A beat later, Picard calmly closes his eyes in
perfect repose. The surgeon looks to his team:
SURGEON
This will be a secondary cardiac
procedure with mid-line entry and
excision of the early model unit.
I anticipate no complications as
the patient has had positive
primary results and exhibits
extraordinary physical condition.
(then)
We'll all be home in time for
dinner.
(holds his hand out,
palm up)
Tissue mitigator.
A nurse responds by slapping a small, glowing glass
rod in his hand as we GO TO:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 44.
46 INT. THE ENTERPRISE OBSERVATION LOUNGE - RIKER
and his crew are still between the proverbial rock and
a hard place as Data informs them:
DATA
There is very little information
available on Pakled culture, but
the eclectic range of their
equipment would suggest that
everything they have has been
stolen from others.
TROI
And now they have become militant.
DATA
So it would seem.
RIKER
Rationale?
TROI
They are unwilling to wait for
the timely evolution of their
species' intellectual capacity.
They seek instant knowledge,
instant power and gratification.
PULASKI
You make them sound like petulant
children.
TROI
Yes. Infantile humans are known
for responses of a similar nature.
RIKER
Then suppose we treat them like
children.
DATA
Sir?
RIKER
It's time we set some limits.
DATA
To what effect, sir? We are faced
with an impossible conundrum.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 45.
46 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Not if we let Geordi give them
something they want... and then
create the right moment for him
to take it away.
TROI
Would you be suggesting a ruse
of some sort?
RIKER
I would.
PULASKI
And what if it fails? What'll
happen to Geordi then?
RIKER
We don't have any choice. We have
to try.
47 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD
lies in repose, the surgical team calmly carrying out
the cardiac replacement procedure. Hovering over
Picard now is a large praying mantis-like piece of
equipment that seems to reach down into his chest
cavity:
SURGEON
There has been some capillary
reaction here... let's proceed
carefully... we'll need sharper
focus on the thoracic
polychromatics and verification
of myocardial enzyme balance.
The team attends to the equipment as the Surgeon
continues his delicate work and now we GO TO:
48 INT. THE PAKLED MONDOR BRIDGE - GEORDI
steels himself against the effects of the phaser shots
he's already endured, looks up at the Pakleds:
GEORDI
Let me talk to them. I'll get
you their computer banks.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 46.
48 CONTINUED:
GREBNEDLOG
We want to be smart.
GEORDI
So open the hailing frequency.
They'll listen to me.
GREBNEDLOG
(to Reginod)
We are smart.
REGINOD
We need their computer things.
GREBNEDLOG
Yes.
(then, to Geordi)
Yes.
Grebnedlog turns an analog dial on a console and now
49 INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
comes to life with the image of the Mondor bridge.
Riker steps up, flanked by Data, Worf, Pulaski, and
Troi, reacting to:
GEORDI
Commander Riker?
RIKER
Yes, Lieutenant. We're here.
GEORDI
The Pakleds seem pretty sincere.
GREBNEDLOG
We want what we want.
RIKER
Our computer banks are
non-negotiable.
GEORDI
Excuse me, Commander, but let's
consider that for a minute. The
Enterprise's protected memory
storage is so extensive that it
would take well over twenty-four
hours just to access.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 47.
49 CONTINUED:
GEORDI (Cont'd)
In that time, maybe we could all
reach a more acceptable resolution
to our little misunderstanding
here.
GREBNEDLOG
We want to be smart.
GEORDI
(to Riker)
Belive me, they're nothing if not
persistent.
GREBNEDLOG
We want to be nothing if not
persistent.
GEORDI
(to Riker)
Nobody ever said they were great
conversationalists.
RIKER
Where did they get their shields?
GREBNEDLOG
Yes. We like shields.
GEORDI
From what I've seen, half the
systems on this ship have been
stolen from Romulans, Jarada,
Klingons, just about anybody they
ever came in contact with.
GREBNEDLOG
We like to be smart.
RIKER
Confirmed, Lieutenant La Forge.
They steal technology.
DATA
But they lack the ability to use
it properly.
Riker considers that, exchanges a conspiratorial
glance with his crew, then clears his throat and
intones:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 48.
49 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(back to Geordi)
You're an excellent chief
engineer, Lieutenant.
GEORDI
Thank you, sir.
RIKER
And of course, your knowledge
of phaser and photon weaponry is
unmatched.
GREBNEDLOG
(chiming in mindlessly)
We like phasers.
GEORDI
That's kind of you to say, sir,
but Lieutenant Worf --
RIKER
(cutting him off)
Our missions are always inherently
dangerous. Any of us could be
called upon to make the ultimate
sacrifice at any time.
GEORDI
Uh... yes, sir, but --
RIKER
Speaking of time, Lieutenant,
this may be your time. I shall
personally miss you.
Geordi reacts to that with confusion. Grebnedlog and
Reginod glance at each other, concerned as Data steps
up to speak to Geordi:
DATA
You will always be in my memory.
GEORDI
Data... wait a minute. Can't
we.. ?
DATA
I shall miss you at weapons
systems analysis.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 49.
49 CONTINUED: (3)
Geordi wrinkles his brow as he considers that for a
beat, then something begins to dawn upon him:
GEORDI
Weapons system analysis?
(then, tentative, trying
it out)
I guess you'll just have to carry
out the photon torpedo countdowns
without me.
DATA
Exactly. Fond farewell.
GREBNEDLOG
(to Reginod)
He knows about weapons.
REGINOD
He is smart.
GREBNEDLOG
(to Geordi)
You can make us strong.
GEORDI
(with "humility")
It's not something I like to talk
about --
Just then, Worf steps up to face the viewscreen:
WORF
Lieutenant La Forge.
GEORDI
Worf... my old friend.
WORF
Any classified weapons knowledge
you share with your captors will
be considered treason.
GEORDI
(re the Pakleds)
I may have no choice.
WORF
You will die without honor.
GEORDI
I know. Just my luck.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 50.
49 CONTINUED: (4)
WORF
You will never attain the
twenty-four levels of awareness.
Geordi reacts to that, making specific mental notes:
GEORDI
Twenty-four? That's quite a
challenge.
WORF
Indeed. Twenty-four is the
gateway to heroic salvation.
With that, Grebnedlog reaches over to the console,
twists the analog switch and cuts off further
communication and the viewscreen goes black. Pulaski
steps to Riker:
PULASKI
Do you think he understands?
RIKER
He'd better.
TROI
He is afraid.
RIKER
We all are, Counselor.
50 INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE - GREBNEDLOG
now turns to Geordi with new appreciation:
GREBNEDLOG
You are smart.
GEORDI
Not smart enough. I'm still here.
GREBNEDLOG
Make us strong.
GEORDI
I thought you wanted me to help
you... "go". Why don't we work
on that guidance system, okay?
Grebnedlog levels Geordi's phaser at him:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 51.
50 CONTINUED:
GREBNEDLOG
Make us strong. Or die.
Geordi reacts to that, suppressing a mischievous smile
as he surrenders to their commands while we GO TO
51 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - (OPTICAL)
Picard remains motionless, even more awesomely
technological gear in the room now. The surgeon
perspires heavily; tension hangs in the air:
SURGEON
The metabilation occlusions aren't
holding.
A nurse hands him another set of metabilators; these
have even more contractile expediators on them. The
surgeon tries them, reacts angrily:
SURGEON
Damnit! I can't stop the
heterocyclic declination! Fuse!
A sharp BEAM flashes down from overhead, sending up
a puff of smoke from Picard's thorax,. It doesn't
work. The surgeon looks up, commanding now:
SURGEON
Again!
The BEAM flashes again. Another puff of smoke. The
surgeon sags as he realizes:
SURGEON
We need a Biomolecular
Physiologist in here! This man
is dying!
With that, one of the nurses reacts, bolts for the
doors and we
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 52.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
52 EXT. SPACE - THE MONDOR (OPTICAL)
remains in position. The Enterprise in proximity while
53 INT. THE MONDOR ARMAMENT BAY - GEORDI
is ushered to their relatively primitive "gun turrets"
by Grebnedlog and Reginod. Geordi reacts:
GEORDI
You've gotta be kidding.
GREBNEDLOG
Make us strong.
GEORDI
(re: the armaments)
There isn't enough juice in these
to blow off a passing asteroid.
GREBNEDLOG
Do it. Make us strong.
Geordi studies the situation carefully, finally
acknowledging:
GEORDI
I suppose we could increase the
anti-matter charges.
REGINOD
Yes. We like power.
Grebnedlog points to a set of weapon-force meters and
lights:
GREBNEDLOG
Do not try to trick us. We can
tell.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 53.
53 CONTINUED:
And as Geordi starts to work, we GO TO
54 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD
appears to be losing his battle for life, his face
increasingly ashen now as the surgeon and a
BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST crowd around the patient:
BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
Metabilation?
SURGEON
Negative.
BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
Heterocyclics?
SURGEON
Failing. And capillary integrity
too unpredictable to attempt a
resect.
BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
You're unwilling to make the
attempt??
SURGEON
I'm not qualified.
BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
I know someone who is.
With that, the biomolecular physiologist touches a
communications panel on the wall and we GO TO:
55 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
hangs close to the Mondor while
56 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING - SONYA
looks up from the glow of the pool table to look
incredulously at Riker and Data:
SONYA
Are you sure he can do it? He's
an engineer, not a weapons
specialist.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 54.
56 CONTINUED:
RIKER
True. But if anyone can
improvise, it's Geordi.
SONYA
What makes you think the Pakleds
even have that kind of gear on
board?
DATA
Ongoing scanning indicates
progressive weapons potential.
(then, to Riker)
The timing will be crucial. He
must correctly interpret our
intentions.
RIKER
Geordi's up to speed. I trust
his instincts.
DATA
The Pakleds did hear our little
fiction about Geordi's "weapons
knowledge."
RIKER
Exactly. And since they obviously
equate intelligence with strength,
they won't pass up this chance
to use that knowledge.
(then, to Sonya)
Can you do it?
SONYA
Count on it.
Suddenly, Sonya's interrupted by the urgency of
WORF (V.O.)
Bridge to Commander Riker!
RIKER
Go ahead, bridge --
WORF (V.O.)
I am receiving an emergency
summons from Starbase
five one five... Captain Picard
is close to death!
Riker reacts, stunned as he looks to Data:
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 55.
56 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(to Sonya)
Be ready!
Riker and Data exit and Sonya goes to work on the
anti-matter blender as we GO TO:
57 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI
crawls out from the weapons bay. He's had better
days, and he dusts himself off as he turns to
Grebnedlog and Reginod who react with delight as their
weapons-force meters and lights surge with new life:
REGINOD
(re the meters)
We are strong.
GEORDI
You're now armed to the teeth.
GREBNEDLOG
Teeth are for chewing.
GEORDI
(with a patient sigh)
You have photon torpedoes. You
are strong.
Grebnedlog "smiles" at Reginod now:
GREBNEDLOG
We are strong. We have power.
And as the two Pakleds contemplate how to use their
newfound might, we GO TO:
58 INT. THE ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER
is in command position, Pulaski at his side, Worf at
his station, Troi nearby as Data looks up from his
scanner console, announcing:
DATA
Positive indication of armed
photon torpedoes, Commander.
RIKER
Geordi did it.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 56.
58 CONTINUED:
Worf turns from his security station, calling out:
WORF
Starbase requests we proceed to
base at warp nine --
PULASKI
We've got to go!
TROI
Yes. Captain Picard needs our
help.
RIKER
We can't leave Geordi behind --
(then, to Data)
I want the Pakleds on that screen
and I want them now!
DATA
Forced spectrum communications
are spotty at best, sir.
RIKER
Do it.
58A THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
comes alive with the very fuzzy, forced-spectrum image
of the Mondor bridge where Grebnedlog and Reginod are
settling into their command chairs as Geordi stands in
the b.g. and now
58B RIKER (OPTICAL)
quickly steps before the viewscreen:
RIKER
This is the Enterprise. Return
our personnel or face immediate
reprisal.
GREBNEDLOG
We are strong now. We have better
weapons.
RIKER
Are you prepared to use them?
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 57.
58B CONTINUED:
REGINOD
We are a force now. We will have
respect. Power.
TROI
They feel confident.
RIKER
We don't have time for this. You
want power? This is power...
(to computer)
Bridge to Ensign Gomez...
59 INT. ENGINEERING - SONYA
reacts, responds as she works furiously at some
heavy-duty anti-matter work:
SONYA
Ready, Commander Riker --
RIKER (V.O.)
Initiate sequencing.
Sonya hits some new panels and now the engine core
begins to react with a massive ROAR while
60 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER
glares at the Pakleds and calls their bluff with:
RIKER
Begin firing sequence countdown
from twenty-four.
60AA THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
The Pakleds react, startled at Riker's aggressiveness
as Geordi takes his cue, leans back into the weapons
bay to make some "adjustments," assuring Grebnedlog:
GEORDI
They mean business. Let me just
check something.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 58.
60A INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN ENGINEERING - SONYA
moves quickly, efficiently, as she works to boost
hydrogen output, as we hear:
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Twenty-one... twenty...
nineteen... eighteen...
60B INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER
stands before the viewscreen, Worf ready at his station
as they hear:
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Seventeen... sixteen...
fifteen... fourteen...
WORF
Firing sequence proceeding, sir.
RIKER
Hold fast.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Eleven... ten... nine...
60C INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE
The Pakleds debate the wisdom of their choices now,
then turning to face Riker while Geordi works in the
b.g. furiously making his "adjustments."
GREBNEDLOG
We will attack.
(re the weapons meters)
We are strong.
REGINOD
(to Grebnedlog)
We should attack now.
GEORDI
Just another second here...
GREBNEDLOG
Hurry.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 59.
60D INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER
reacts to what he sees on the viewscreen, looks to Worf
as they listen to:
COMPUTER (V.O.)
six... five... four... three...
Tension mounts as
60E OMITTED
60F INT. ENGINEERING - SONYA
is taut, poised over her console waiting:
COMPUTER (V.O)
...two... one...
RIKER
Fire!
she hits the appropriate controls now and
61 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
fires a heretofore unseen, unimagined blast of crimson
energy field from the leading edge of the nacelles,
fairly enveloping the Mondor in a huge, daunting shaft
of red light, accompanied by a ghostly ROAR and now
62 INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE - GEORDI
looks up from his work in the weapons bay, shouts at
Grebnedlog:
GEORDI
Now!
Grebnedlog pulls the weapons lever but suddenly, the
entire bridge is awash with a BRIGHT RED LIGHT.
GEORDI
Oh no! Too late!
REGINOD
We have fired! They will be
destroyed.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 60.
62 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
But they used the crimson
force-field --
He looks toward the weapons bay and now it emits a low
GROAN. Grebnedlog looks at the weapons meters, reacts
with a sag as he realizes:
GREBNEDLOG
It did not shoot.
GEORDI
Their crimson force-field disarmed
us.
REGINOD
(re the Enterprise;
awed)
They are smart.
GEBNEDLOG
We are not strong.
63 INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER (OPTICAL)
gives the final warning as he stands before the
viewscreen:
RIKER
Drop your shields and let us
transport Lieutenant La Forge
immediately.
Grebnedlog waves a trembling hand to a minion who pulls
a switch.
DATA
Shields are down.
RIKER
Transporter Room. One to beam
to the bridge.
Geordi immediately DEMATERIALIZES on the viewscreen. A
beat later, he MATERIALIZES beside Riker, turns to his
officer at CONN:
RIKER
Set heading for Starbase
five one five. Warp nine.
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 61.
64 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
streaks off at warp nine as we GO TO
64A INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER
stands before the viewscreen where Grebnedleg appears,
truly humbled.:
RIKER
We leave you in peace.
GREBNEDLOG
We want to be strong.
RIKER
Weapons alone do not create
strength. You must learn
restraint.
GREBNEDLOG
Yes. We will learn restraint.
Then we will be strong.
Riker reacts to that with a sigh.
RIKER
Off.
The viewscreen goes dark as Geordi steps up:
GEORDI
What was that red blast?
RIKER
Hydrogen exhaust through the
Bussard collectors. Harmless,
but a nice light show.
GEORDI
Very impressive.
RIKER
Did you disable their photons?
GEORDI
Just in time. That's why you're
all standing here...
64B EXT. STARBASE FIVE-ONE-FIVE - ESTABLISHING
The medical center
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 62.
65 INT. STARBASE FIVE-ONE-FIVE SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD
stirs now, his eyes slowly fluttering open. A beat.
He's alive. And then he scowls as he grumbles:
PICARD
What in the hell are you doing
here?
65A ANGLE - PULASKI
stands over him, pulling her surgical mask down,
snapping her gloves off smartly with:
PULASKI
Saving your life.
PICARD
Oh come on. This is a routine
procedure. Quite commonplace.
PULASKI
True. But you are not a
commonplace man. You'll be out
of recovery in four hours.
PICARD
I didn't want you involved in
this.
PULASKI
You're welcome.
He regards her obliquely. Then:
PICARD
If you're here... the entire crew
must know...
PULASKI
You're still the captain.
Invincible.
PICARD
Thank you.
She gives him a reassuring wink now as we GO TO:
66 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
cruises in orbit above Starbase five one five while
STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 63.
67 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER
is in command position, Data, Worf, Geordi, Troi, and
Wesley all in their respective positions; the
engineering station is up. The turbolift doors open
and Picard steps out. A round of applause erupts, and
Picard glares at them gruffly:
PICARD
I beg your pardon.
They fall silent. Geordi looks at Worf, comments:
GEORDI
Looks like things are back to
normal...
Picard walks down to his chair, stands before it. A
beat. Then he announces:
PICARD
I'm pleased to report that Ensign
Crusher's Starfleet exam results
will enable him to continue with
his studies on board the
Enterprise. Furthermore, any
rumors of my brush with death
are greatly exaggerated. Is that
clear?
RIKER
Yes, sir.
PICARD
Good. Set the course for Epsilon
Sector.
(to Wesley)
Warp five, Ensign.
Picard assumes his command position now and
PICARD
(continuing)
Engage.
68 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
warps out of orbit as we
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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