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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Time's Arrow"
#40275-226
Story by
Joe Menosky
Teleplay by
Joe Menosky & Michael Piller
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 1992 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
APRIL 6, 1992
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Time's Arrow"
CAST
PICARD SAMUEL CLEMENS
RIKER BELLBOY
DATA GAMBLER
BEVERLY SEAMAN
TROI AMERICAN INDIAN
GEORDI BEGGAR
WORF DOORMAN
ROUGHNECK
GUINAN
SCIENTIST Non-Speaking
A MAN
Non-Speaking A WOMAN
SUPERNUMERARIES N.D. MAN (MISTER LANE)
BUSINESSMAN
SOCIETY PEOPLE
ALIENS
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Time's Arrow"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
READY ROOM DEVIDIA TWO
ENGINEERING
TEN FORWARD 24TH CENT. SAN FRANCISCO
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
HOTEL 19TH CENT. SAN FRANCISCO/
DATA'S ROOM STREET
POKER ROOM
ALLEY
24TH CENTURY SAN FRANCISCO
UNDERGROUND CAVERN HOTEL
VICTORIAN HOME VICTORIAN HOME
BALLROOM
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Time's Arrow"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit of Earth.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45959.1.
The Enterprise has been recalled
to sector zero zero one on a
priority mission.
2 EXT. 24TH CENTURY SAN FRANCISCO - DAY - ESTABLISHING
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
All we've been told is that
evidence has been discovered
indicating the presence of
extraterrestrials on Earth...
five centuries ago.
3 INT. UNDERGROUND CAVERN
PICARD and DATA move down a tunnel illuminated by
mining lights... a SCIENTIST, male, late forties,
leads the way...
SCIENTIST
Work crews were down here
installing seismic regulators when
they found some remarkable
artifacts...
He pulls back a tarp to reveal a collection of
artifacts from the late 1800s... perhaps a broken pair
of bifocals, a pocket watch, a pistol, a canteen,
bullets and bullet case...
PICARD
And it's been determined that they
date back to the late nineteenth
century... ?
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/09/92 - TEASER 2.
3 CONTINUED:
DATA
(studying them)
The biofocal vision aide is
typical of the era... the weapon
is a forty-five caliber single
action cavalry pistol invented
by Colt Firearms in 1873.
SCIENTIST
(nods)
Look inside the watch.
Data examines the watch and opens it... time has
stopped long ago... the face is cracked and broken...
there is an engraving: "To S.L.C., with love. 30
November, 1889."
PICARD
What makes you think
extraterrestrials are related to
this discovery...
SCIENTIST
The crew was having a problem with
the regulators... something in
the cavern was interfering with
the phase conditioners... it
turned out to be the cavern
itself... do you have a tricorder,
Commander?
Data takes out his tricorder and takes readings, reacts
curiously...
DATA
The composition of the exposed
rockface has been altered by
exposure to triolic waves...
SCIENTIST
Which you're not going to find
on Earth... in either the
nineteenth or twenty-fourth
century...
PICARD
Triolic waves?
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/09/92 - TEASER 3.
3 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
The byproduct of an energy
source employed by very few
species because of its deleterious
effects on living tissue...
SCIENTIST
We've confirmed that no one has
been in or out of this cavern in
centuries... so we're left with
a five-hundred-year-old mystery.
PICARD
I'm curious, Doctor. There are
far greater experts on Earth who
could investigate your mystery.
Why bring the Enterprise all the
way home?
The scientist gives them a quick, grim glance ...
SCIENTIST
As we continued our excavation,
we found one other thing I haven't
shown you yet...
He leads them across the chamber...
SCIENTIST
We've tried to leave everything
as we found it...
He pulls back another tarp to reveal something we don't
immediately see...
4 PICARD
reacts, stunned.
5 DATA
reacts, very curious.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - TEASER 4.
6 THE SCIENTIST
studies their reactions and as he looks back down we
follow his gaze to see Data's head broken at the
neck... dusty, old and dead...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/16/92 - ACT ONE 5.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
7 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Still in orbit of Earth...
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45960.2.
We have transported the materials
discovered in the cavern back to
the ship for analysis. I wish I
could be as dispassionate about
the implications as my second
officer...
8 INT. ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)
Close on Data's head at a work station... it is open,
circuitry exposed, Data examines it with a 24th-century
microscopic device... Picard and RIKER look over his
shoulder, waiting for some conclusion...
DATA
Interesting... there has been a
twelve percent decomposition of
the bitanium in the neural pathway
links... it suggests the alloys
are vulnerable to...
RIKER
Data...
DATA
Yessir... ?
RIKER
How can you look inside that...
and analyze the decomposition...
without... without...
Riker struggles for the right word for a beat...
DATA
Emotion, sir?
RIKER
... without, I don't know...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT ONE 5A.
8 CONTINUED:
DATA
I am simply trying to make an
objective assessment.
PICARD
Is it... yours, Data?
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT ONE 6.
8 CONTINUED:
DATA
I am quite certain that it is,
Captain.
PICARD
Could it be Lore?
DATA
My brother's positronic brain had
a type L phase-discriminating
amplifier... mine is type R.
PICARD
(re: the head)
Type R?
DATA
(acknowledging)
Yessir.
PICARD
Can you determine how long it has
been in the cavern?
DATA
(glances at Riker)
As I was going to say, the
decomposition strongly indicates
that life was terminated
approximately five hundred years
ago. That would be consistent
with the other artifacts recovered.
RIKER
Your head is not an artifact.
DATA
In relative terms, perhaps not.
Nevertheless, it seems clear that
my life is to end in the late
nineteenth century.
RIKER
Not if we can help it.
DATA
(curious)
There is nothing anyone can do
to prevent it, sir.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT ONE 6A.
8 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA (cont'd)
At some future date, I will be
transported back to nineteenth
century Earth... where I will die.
It has occurred. It will occur.
The ease with which he speaks it is unnerving.
GEORDI, who has been working in another part of
engineering, moves to them...
GEORDI
I can't tell you exactly who the
aliens were... but I have found
out a few things...
He sits at a computer station... calls up something
on the monitor...
GEORDI
The triolicized rock face tells
us we're probably dealing with
a species with microcentrum cell
membranes. Triolic waves
wouldn't harm them. Also might
mean they're shape shifters of
some kind...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT ONE 7.
8 CONTINUED: (3)
RIKER
So they could have appeared as
Humans on Earth...
GEORDI
(nods)
I don't think it's anyone we've
run into before... nothing we
found matches up with any known
lifeform...
He switches programs...
GEORDI
What does match up... is a
cellular fossil that might have
just come along for the ride...
PICARD
Cellular fossil... ?
9 ANGLE (OPTICAL)
He calls up a blow-up of a one cell fossil...
GEORDI
A microscopic ciliated
lifeform... not that different
from a thousand other single cell
lifeforms that you'd find on any
planet surface... except this
particular one is
L-B-one-zero-four-four-five...
and L-B-one-zero-four-four-five
is only known to exist on one
planet... Devidia Two in the
Marrab sector...
PICARD
Number One, lay in a course...
RIKER
Aye, sir...
He EXITS... there's a moment when Picard exchanges a
glance with Data, like there's something he might like
to say, but then he follows Riker out... on Data's
expression...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT ONE 8.
10 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Going to warp.
11 INT. TEN FORWARD (OPTICAL)
Data and Geordi sit at the bar... a beat in silence...
Geordi is obviously shaken by the events, is
depressed...
GEORDI
So?
Data cocks his head.
DATA
I have no reference point by which
your question can be answered.
GEORDI
So... do you feel like talking
about it?
DATA
Are you referring to the
foreknowledge of my death?
GEORDI
Yeah.
DATA
I have no particular desire to
discuss the matter.
(beat)
Do you feel like talking about
it?
GEORDI
Yeah.
DATA
Why?
GEORDI
Data... it's gotta bother you
a little...
DATA
On the contrary, I find it
rather... comforting.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT ONE 9.
11 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(surprised)
Comforting...
DATA
I have often wondered about my
own mortality as I have seen
others age around me... Until now,
it has been theoretically possible
that I would live an unlimited
period of time. And although
some might find this attractive,
to me it only reinforces the fact
that I am... artificial.
GEORDI
I never realized... how tough all
this must be for you...
DATA
"Tough"?
GEORDI
Knowing that you would outlive
all your friends.
DATA
(blind to sentiment)
I expected to make new friends.
GEORDI
True.
DATA
And then outlive them as well.
A poignant beat. Geordi nods, beginning to understand.
GEORDI
Now that you know you might not...
DATA
... it provides a sense of
completion to my future. In a
way, I am not so different from
anyone else. I can now look
forward to death.
GEORDI
I never thought of it that way.
DATA
One might even conclude that it
brings me one step closer to being
Human. I am mortal.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/20/92 - ACT ONE 10.
11 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard to bridge officers...
we're approaching the Devidia
system... report to your
stations...
Data rises to leave...
GEORDI
See you later... let's get
together for a game of chess or
something, okay?
Data cocks his head, acknowledges, EXITS. Geordi looks
down at his drink, shakes his head and grins...
GUINAN (o.c.)
Looked like quite an intense
discussion.
He looks up
12 ANGLE
to see GUINAN arriving...
GEORDI
Yeah... talking about life, death,
the future...
GUINAN
Somebody getting married?
GEORDI
Naw. Somebody's gonna die.
GUINAN
Die?
GEORDI
They found Data's head a mile
below San Francisco... been down
there for five centuries...
A solemn expression passes across her face... she's
disconcerted by the announcement...
GUINAN
That's why the Enterprise was sent
back to Earth... I didn't
realize...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/20/92 - ACT ONE 11.
12 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Yeah, something, isn't it?
She looks at him with a unusually concerned
expression... she knew this was coming... she's been
waiting for it...
GEORDI
(continuing)
He seems fine about it... better
than I am...
(stands)
I better get to engineering...
She acknowledges... and he EXITS... and stay on her
for a long beat... and push into her as she says to
herself...
GUINAN
Full circle.
And we may not know what it means yet... but the way
she says it... with fatalist tones... we realize she
has knowledge about this that she has not shared with
Geordi...
12A INT. CORRIDOR
Riker is at a turbolift as Troi arrives... an
acknowledgment and then...
TROI
I heard about Data.
RIKER
Yeah.
TROI
It's having an unusually traumatic
effect on everyone.
RIKER
Yeah.
TROI
If you don't want to talk about
it, it's okay.
RIKER
I'm fine. I'm just...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/20/92 - ACT ONE 11A.
12A CONTINUED:
TROI
...angry.
RIKER
No not angry.
(beat, realizing she's
right)
Yeah, angry. Why should I be
angry?
TROI
Maybe it reminds us all of our
own mortality.
RIKER
I just don't want to believe it.
TROI
(beat)
Have you ever heard Data define
friendship?
RIKER
No...
TROI
How did he put it... something
like...
(Data impression)
"As I experience certain sensory
input patterns my mental pathways
become accustomed to them. The
inputs eventually are anticipated
and even 'missed' when absent."
She even cocks her head.
RIKER
(smiles)
You do that very well. So what's
the point?
TROI
He's "used" to us... and we're
"used" to him... it's like finding
out someone you love has a terminal
illness and...
The turbolift door opens, revealing Data inside... she
stops in mid-conversation... uneasy tension...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/20/92 - ACT ONE 11B.
12A CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(quickly)
Data...
DATA
(nodding)
Counselor. Commander.
Riker and Troi step inside...
12B INT. TURBOLIFT - CONTINUOUS ACTION
All three are facing forward. There is an
uncomfortable beat of silence.
DATA
Would either of you mind if I made
a personal inquiry?
The door closes and it begins to move up.
TROI
Personal inquiry? No, go right
ahead.
DATA
I am perceiving an apparent change
in the way that others act toward
me. For example, people abruptly
end their conversations when I
appear... as you did when the
turbolift doors opened. Is this
an accurate observation?
RIKER TROI
Not at all. Yes.
RIKER
(beat, sighs)
Yes.
TROI
You're right, Data. And it's not
a very nice thing to do.
RIKER
(struggling)
It's just that our mental pathways
have... become accustomed to your...
sensory input patterns...
The door opens at the bridge...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/20/92 - ACT ONE 11C.
12B CONTINUED:
DATA
I understand. I am fond of you
too, Commander.
Data EXITS... Troi and Riker take a beat and then EXIT
too...
13 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Coming out of warp approaching a planet.
14 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Data, WORF, Riker. Picard ENTERS from the ready room.
RIKER
We're in orbit.
PICARD
Any sign of life?
WORF
Negative.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT ONE 12.
14 CONTINUED:
DATA
Sir, sensors are picking up
unusual temporal disturbances on
a small area of the planet's
surface... forty-two degrees,
seven minutes north by eighty-eight
degrees declination east.
RIKER
(exchanges a glance with
Picard)
Temporal disturbances...
PICARD
Take us into a standard orbit
above those coordinates...
DATA
Spectral analysis shows a high
level of triolic waves emanating
from the same location.
RIKER
Do they correlate with your
readings from Earth, Data?
DATA
Affirmative, sir... the magnetic
signature is identical to the one
found in the cavern.
PICARD
Would these triolic waves be
dangerous to humanoids?
DATA
Only with longterm exposure.
There is no immediate threat.
PICARD
(to Riker)
Take an away team.
RIKER
Worf...
Data rises to join the team... but Riker pointedly
leaves him out... continuing...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT ONE 12A.
14 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(to com)
Riker to La Forge. Meet the away
team in transporter room three...
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir...
He starts to exit... Data reacts...
DATA
Commander...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Mister Data, I'll need you on the
bridge to monitor the sensor
readings during this
investigation...
Picard nods to Riker who EXITS with Troi and Worf.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT ONE 13.
14 CONTINUED: (3)
DATA
Captain, may I speak to you alone?
Picard would like to avoid this... but there is no way,
so he nods and leads Data into...
15 INT. READY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
DATA
Sir, it is established procedure
that the second officer
accompanies the away...
PICARD
Yes, yes I am aware of that...
DATA
Then I must assume that this
decision is related to the
discovery on Earth of...
PICARD
I see no reason why we shouldn't
take reasonable precautions...
DATA
Captain, no disrespect intended,
but there is no rational
justification for such a course...
PICARD
Then, I shall be irrational.
DATA
It is possible, sir, that the
events leading to my death may
not begin for years... even
centuries.
PICARD
I hope that's true, Data.
Nevertheless, this investigation
began with your death... I am
simply trying to see that it
doesn't end the same way.
DATA
(beat)
While I appreciate your concern,
sir, if I may employ an
aphorism, one cannot cheat fate.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT ONE 14.
15 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Cheat fate... ? Perhaps we can't,
Mister Data. But, to be honest,
I don't think I could forgive
myself... if we didn't at least
give it a try.
On Data's reaction...
16 EXT. PLANET SURFACE - NIGHT
Ominous. Riker, Troi, Worf and Geordi MATERIALIZE...
move around, investigating with tricorders... a natural
rockface environment...
Troi is getting some unusual feelings now, she can't
put her finger on it yet... Geordi moves along an
invisible perimeter, taking readings...
GEORDI
The concentration of triolic waves
falls off about here...
(walking into the
rockface))
It increases exponentially the
closer in we go...
RIKER
What's the source? Is there
something underground?
GEORDI
Negative, Commander.
RIKER
Then what's the explanation?
GEORDI
Don't have one yet.
(hits combadge)
LaForge to Enterprise.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Go ahead.
INTERCUT:
17 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Data at the aft science station. Picard at command.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT ONE 15.
17 CONTINUED:
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Run a spectral field correlation
for me... see if these triolic
readings are directly related to
the temporal distortions...
DATA
Acknowledged.
Data moves from one console to another... begins
pressing a series of panels...
18 EXT. PLANET SURFACE
Moving to find Troi... who is walking with an inner
purpose...
RIKER
(concerned)
Deanna...
TROI
There is life here... a child...
an old woman... dozens more...
dozens... hundreds... terrified...
RIKER
Terrified... ?
TROI
My God... they're Human.
Off reactions...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT TWO 16.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
19 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Still in orbit.
20 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard reacts as...
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Troi's convinced they're human...
they may be trapped somehow...
we're not sure...
Data moves from the aft station...
DATA
Captain, the results of my
temporal analysis may be
pertinent...
Picard nods, go ahead.
DATA
It indicates a synchronic
distortion in the areas emanating
triolic waves...
INTERCUTTING:
21 EXT. PLANET SURFACE - NIGHT
GEORDI
That explains a few things. How
much, Data?
DATA'S COM VOICE
A positive displacement of point
zero-zero-four percent.
GEORDI
(off Riker's look)
Whatever or whoever's there...
is out of phase with us... But
we're only talking about a
fraction of a second...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT TWO 17.
21 CONTINUED:
WORF
A fraction of a second would make
them invisible?
GEORDI
A millisecond, a year... it
wouldn't make any difference...
If what we're reading is accurate,
we're occupying the same space...
but in a different time...
RIKER
How do we compensate?
22 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (INTERCUT CONTINUING)
DATA
Commander, we might be able to
manipulate the synchronic
distortion...
GEORDI
(nodding)
Maybe. If we created a contained
subspace forcefield. But to get a
point zero-zero-four variance,
we'd need an incredibly sensitive
phase discriminator, Data... I
don't think we've got one that
would come close...
DATA
Yes, we do. It is built into my
positronic decompiler.
Reactions all around.
DATA
It would be necessary for me to
join the away team, Captain.
Picard looks at him. A long beat. So much for cheating
fate.
PICARD
(beat)
Proceed.
As Data EXITS... a last look by Picard and...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT TWO 18.
23 EXT. PLANET SURFACT - NIGHT (OPTICAL)
The away team reacts as Data MATERIALIZES... he is
wearing a phaser, carrying a small generator and other
tech gear in a carrying case...
RIKER
(grim)
Mister Data...
DATA
Sir.
GEORDI
Let me give you a hand here,
Data...
Geordi quickly moves to assist him in preparing...
turns on the generator... checks that it is functioning
properly...
DATA
(to Riker)
Once I have adjusted the
forcefield, I will no longer be
visible, Commander... however,
I have taken steps to ensure that
you will still be able to hear
me. If you would assist me in
a test of the com system...
Data presses his combadge... Riker follows suit... and
now as Data talks there is an echo over the com...
DATA
(continuing)
My voice will be transmitted on
a delay correlated to the phase
adjustment... it should allow me
to maintain verbal contact...
RIKER
Will we be able to talk to you?
DATA
Nossir, that will not be possible.
GEORDI
You're ready to go...
He hands Data a hand control and the mobile generator
(which should have a handle). Data turns it on with
the hand control. There is an optical zap between the
generator and the remote control...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT TWO 18A.
23 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Subspace field is established...
Data moves toward the slab... working the hand
controls...
DATA
Adjusting for synchronic
distortion... point zero-zero-one...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT TWO 19.
23 CONTINUED: (2)
And with each count he begins to fade... and so does
the echo...
DATA
Point zero-zero-two... point
zero-zero-three... point zero-zero
four...
And he's gone... his com voice is our only reference
point...
DATA'S COM VOICE
I have made visual contact...
(beat)
There are lifeforms here...
24
thru OMITTED
25
26 PICARD
on the bridge... listens...
DATA'S COM VOICE
They are either unaware of me or
choosing to ignore me... I am
moving approximately ten meters
north of my starting position
to observe more closely...
27
thru OMITTED
28
29 RESUME AWAY TEAM (VARIOUS)
listening...
DATA'S COM VOICE
They range from two to three
meters in height... silver-gray
in color... they have four
limbs... no eyes or ears
are noticeable...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT TWO 20.
29 CONTINUED:
DATA'S COM VOICE (cont'd)
... there is a single orifice where
a humanoid forehead would
ordinarily be. They are reclined
against the rockface... surrounding
an apparatus of some sort...
approximately one-point-five meters
in height...
RIKER
(to Geordi)
An apparatus?
30 PICARD
listens...
DATA'S COM VOICE
It is releasing what appear to
be energy fragments... which
are then ingested by the entities
through their orifice... perhaps
some sort of nourishment...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT TWO 21.
31 THE AWAY TEAM
As he describes his movements, the officer's eyes
follow the invisible trail.
DATA'S COM VOICE
The upper portion of the
apparatus seems to be a holding
facility for the energy
segments... there are hundreds,
perhaps thousands of these
fragments inside.
(beat)
I have resumed a northern
direction... There is no evidence
yet of Humans...
GEORDI
(to himself)
Okay, enough, Data... come on
back now...
32
thru OMITTED
33
34 PICARD
DATA'S COM VOICE
I have encountered another
lifeform... an ophidian...
it seems to be restricted
by a forcefield...
35 OMITTED
36 THE AWAY TEAM
DATA'S COM VOICE
Two of the silver-gray entities
are approaching it... they have
released the forcefield...
Suddenly there is a sonic boom... reactions...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT TWO 22.
37 OMITTED
38 PICARD
reacts to the sound... which is followed by a deafening
swirling sound of a tornado...
DATA'S COM VOICE
(breaking up)
...temporal... massive... the
ophidian is capable of...
39 OMITTED
40 THE AWAY TEAM
reacts...
DATA'S COM VOICE
(breaking up)
...Caught... attempting to...
His voice dissappears into the searing noise...
41
thru OMITTED
43
44 ANOTHER ANGLE ON AWAY TEAM (OPTICAL)
as they see a flash twenty meters away...
TROI
Data!
All of them break simultaneously into a run... and when
they get there, they look down to see...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT TWO 23.
45 ANGLE - THE GENERATOR AND HAND CONTROL
are all that is left.
46 REACTIONS
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Commander Riker, report!
The away team use their tricorders as they search in
vain for any trace of Data...
RIKER
(beat)
We've lost him.
46A PICARD
reacts. A long beat.
47 OMITTED
48 EXT. ALLEY - DAY - CLOSE ON DATA
lying on the ground, trying to get his bearings. The
first thing we notice is how quiet it is... Data looks
around, slowly rises... the alley is nondescript...
but there are old style garbage cans... a cobblestone
street surface... brick wall buildings. Data (who
still has his phaser on his belt) moves slowly toward
the street... reacts as he sees...
49 OMITTED
50 WIDE
a street scene out of San Francisco circa 1890s...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT THREE 24.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
51 EXT. SAN FRANCISCO STREET - CONTINUOUS
Data continues to take in the 19th-century ambience.
It's a cosmopolitan mixture of people and costumes.
Two rough-looking DOCK WORKERS, three N.D. URBANITES, a
pair of CHINESE IMMIGRANTS. He gets strong REACTIONS
of curiosity re: his appearance.
Data button-holes one of the roughnecks.
DATA
Pardon me. I am searching for
two individuals with an ophidian.
The two men give him a blank look.
DATA
(continuing)
I beg your pardon -- a snake.
The two roughnecks look at each other and laugh --
Data's precise speech pattern strikes them as
inordinately funny.
ROUGHNECK
(to partner; re: Data)
Frenchman.
The partner laughs and the two ruffians keep going.
Data cocks his head in reaction, glances around some
more, spots a section of NEWSPAPER with some crumpled
trash along a wall. He bends and picks it up,
straightening the page to read it.
52 CLOSE ON THE NEWSPAPER
The paper is the SAN FRANCISCO REGISTER and the
headline reads CHOLERA OUTBREAK -- HUNDREDS DIE. The
date: AUGUST 13, 1893.
BEGGAR (o.s.)
Could you help out a Forty-Niner?
53 RESUME AND INCLUDE A BEGGAR
in his sixties, unsteady on his feet, who has just
stepped up to Data.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT THREE 24A.
53 CONTINUED:
BEGGAR
(continuing)
I fell down a shaft...
He indicates a stiff leg.
BEGGAR
(continuing)
And got blown up in a tunnel...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT THREE 25.
53 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
That is unfortunate.
BEGGAR
Most unfortunate. I require large
quantites of whiskey as a
linament.
The man gives a dry cough and slumps for a moment
against Data... he takes a deep ragged breath to
collect himself.
DATA
I am sorry but I have no whiskey
to give you.
BEGGAR
I'll take a dime.
DATA
I am sorry. But I have no form
of legal tender.
The beggar considers Data for a moment.
BEGGER
We're both in the same boat, eh?
(beat)
This is my corner. Go find your
own.
A beat. Data takes advantage of the moment.
DATA
I would be happy to do so.
However, I am presently in need
of information.
BEGGAR
(grudginly)
The stockbrokers are cheap as hell
-- don't even ask 'em. Best
handout is a young man with his
lady. You give him a chance to
impress her by bein' generous.
But stay clear of the sailors --
likely as not, you'll get a fist
across the jaw for your trouble.
DATA
Thank you for the advice, but I
am trying to find two individuals
with a snake.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT THREE 25A.
53 CONTINUED: (3)
BEGGAR
(scowls, pointing)
A snake? You're an odd fellow,
aren't you? Best not be too
particular about who you're
requesting funds from --
The Beggar starts to cough violently --
DATA
You require medical attention.
I will find a doctor --
BEGGAR
No.
(beat)
It's too late for that...
The Beggar struggles off after another passerby --
BEGGAR
(to passerby)
Help a Forty-Niner...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT THREE 26.
53 CONTINUED: (3)
-- leaving Data alone.
Data drops the newspaper where he found it, glances
around the street...
54 ANGLE - HOTEL ENTRANCE
A BELLBOY is loading a suitcase into a HORSEDRAWN
CARRIAGE as the suitcase owner stands by. The man
hands some coins to the Bellboy, then gets into the
carriage. The Bellboy closes the door after him, and
the carriage is driven off.
54A INCLUDE DATA
heading over toward him, as the Bellboy steps over to
two MEN who are standing at a doorway nearby. The
Bellboy hands the coins over to one of them.
BELLBOY
Put it on Gentleman Jim. K.O.
in the fifth.
The man nods. The Bellboy heads for the Hotel entrance
-- Data is waiting for him.
DATA
I require temporary lodging.
The Bellboy reacts to Data's clothes and appearance.
BELLBOY
(indicates Data's
clothes)
Looks like the missus booted you
out in the middle of the night.
Data thinks for a moment -- the light goes on in his
eyes.
DATA
I understand the source of your
misperception.
(indicating clothes)
But this is not sleepware. And
I have no... missus.
The Bellboy is staring at him doubtfully.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT THREE 27.
54A CONTINUED:
A beat -- Data grabs at a cover story.
DATA
I am a Frenchman.
The Bellboy shrugs.
BELLBOY
Everybody's from somewhere. That
doesn't matter at this hotel.
It's six bits a day or four
dollars a week.
DATA
I have no money.
BELLBOY
Now that matters...
DATA
I am capable of performing a
significant range of tasks -- both
mental and physical. Perhaps your
hotel could offer me... a job.
BELLBOY
Well, I don't know. We got a maid
we're pretty happy with. The
cook's decent. The dishwasher's
drunk all day but at least he
shows up on time. And then
there's me -- I do everything
else.
(shrugs)
Sorry.
Suddenly, an N.D. MAN steps out of the hotel behind
them, putting his hat on, looking down in the dumps
as he steps past them.
BELLBOY
(to man)
Lady Luck not with ya, tonight,
Mister Lane?
The man shoots him a hard look, then sullenly continues
offscreen. A beat until he's gone, and the Bellboy
laughs to Data.
BELLBOY
(continuing)
Hasn't filled a straight in five
weeks.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT THREE 27A.
54A CONTINUED: (2)
Data's head jerks to attention.
DATA
Poker?
OFF Data's face...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT THREE 28.
54B INT. POKER ROOM - DAY - ON THE DOOR
A KNOCK. No response. A beat and the door opens,
revealing Data, who steps inside. He looks up, sees
what he came for.
55 ON A POKER TABLE
where the tension is palpable. No one has even glanced
in Data's direction.
Four MEN are at the poker table: A sophisticated NEW
ORLEANS GAMBLER in Southern gentleman clothes,
including a BLACK VEST. A burly, mean-looking SEAMAN
in appropriate costume. An AMERICAN INDIAN wearing
urban, nontribal clothing, including a BOWLER HAT. A
slightly chubby, local BUSINESSMAN.
The Gambler and the American Indian appear to be the
big winners, with considerable piles of currency and
silver dollars in front of each.
They are at the end of a hand. Frustrated, the
Businessman tosses down his cards, folding. The
Gambler carefully puts his cards down as well.
GAMBLER
Fold.
The Seaman is in a staring match with the American
Indian, both still holding their hands. The Seaman
studies his impassive opponent -- the American Indian
is unreadable.
SEAMAN
Go to Blazes!
He angrily tosses down his hand, folding. The American
Indian silently collects the money in the pot, as the
Gambler laughs.
GAMBLER
A poker face carved in marble.
The Seaman puts a meaty hand on the Indian's downturned
cards, intending to turn them over.
SEAMAN
What'd ya have?
The Indian immediately lays his own hand on the cards
-- stopping the Seaman from revealing them. There is a
silent, tense beat of impending violence.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT THREE 28A.
55 CONTINUED:
GAMBLER
(to Seaman)
Mind you, sir. It's a gentleman's
prerogative to divulge a bluff.
(re: Indian)
Our friend wishes to remain
cryptic. I believe it proper to
respect that wish...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT THREE 29.
55 CONTINUED: (2)
The Gambler is all smiles and conciliatory -- but
there's a threat behind it that the physically more
imposing seaman can't ignore.
SEAMAN
(taking his hand off
cards)
The devil take you all...
He crosses his arms together, steaming. The Gambler
gathers all the cards together and begins to shuffle
as the Seaman glances up in surprise at an unseen
interloper.
SEAMAN
(continuing; toward
offscreen)
What in hell do you want?
56 INCLUDE DATA
standing nearby, having waited patiently for the hand
to end.
DATA
I would like to join your game.
Everyone gives him the once-over, a little taken aback
by his appearance. The Indian alone is completely
unruffled. He takes one look, and with a
sophisticated, dry as dust delivery (NO cliche'd
"Injun-speak") makes a joke off Data's skin tone.
AMERICAN INDIAN
Pale... face.
The other players all laugh uproariously at the pun.
The laughter dies down, the Seaman makes an unfriendly
scowl toward Data.
SEAMAN
(re: Data's appearance)
Don't like Easterners, personally.
Data cocks his head, now more secure in his role as
foreign visitor.
DATA
(confident)
I am a Frenchman.
The Gambler perks up at this, not quite believing it.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/09/92 - ACT THREE 30.
56 CONTINUED:
GAMBLER
Ah. Mes parents sont originaires
de Bourgogne. Je suis ne a la
New Orleans.
Data reacts to this unexpected response, taken
momentarily for a loss. A beat.
DATA
(perfect accent)
Alors nous sommes presque freres.
Je suis heureux de vous connaitre.
The Gambler laughs, surprised at the answer, then
indicates an empty chair.
GAMBLER
Please, sir.
Data sits down as the Gambler exchanges glances with
his cohorts -- "we've got a live one here." The
Gambler finishes up a shuffle, placing the deck in
front of the android.
GAMBLER
(continuing)
The game is poker. The deal is
yours. The ante is four bits.
Data confidently removes his COMMUNICATOR and places it
in the center of the table.
Everyone eyes the shining device.
GAMBLER
Family heirloom?
DATA
In a manner of speaking. It is
a crystalline composite of
silicon, beryllium...
The Seaman picks it up and BITES INTO IT.
DATA
(continuing)
Carbon-seventy, and --
SEAMAN
(surprised)
Gold.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT THREE 30A.
56 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
(nodding)
Gold.
The Seaman puts it back down.
GAMBLER
I'll give you three bucks for it.
DATA
I accept.
The Gambler takes the communicator and pushes a few
of his winnings over to Data.
Data cuts the deck, picks up the two halves and
shuffles them with an expert hand.
OFF the other players' reactions to the perfect snap of
the cards...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT THREE 31.
57 INT. DATA'S HOTEL ROOM
A modest hotel room, with a single bed, a desk, and a
window. The door UNLOCKS AND OPENS. The Bellboy
ENTERS, holding out an arm as if to present the room --
and Data STEPS INSIDE.
The android is now wearing the American Indian's BOWLER
HAT and the Gambler's BLACK VEST. He has obviously
cleaned up big at the card game.
BELLBOY
Did you see the looks on their
faces? I did everything I could
not to laugh.
DATA
To whom are you referring?
BELLBOY
(what else)
Frederick La Rouque and Joe
Falling Hawk. Those two are card
sharks. Oh sure, they play it
easy at first so they don't scare
off the marks, but give 'em enough
time and they'll bleed a man dry
-- especially an out-of-towner.
DATA
What was the source of your
jocular reaction?
The kid looks blank.
DATA
(continuing)
What was it you found humorous?
BELLBOY
Don't you see? They had you
pegged for a sap.
(indicates Data's
appearance)
Those clothes you got on, the way
you talk -- it's like you were
born yesterday. You sure had them
fooled.
DATA
It was not my intention to
deceive.
The Bellboy looks at Data's innocent face. The Bellboy
can't decide whether Data's telling the truth or not.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT THREE 31A.
57 CONTINUED:
The kid shrugs.
BELLBOY
Have it your way.
(indicates the room)
This is the place. Breakfast is
from six to eight. Checkout's
at noon when you're ready to
leave.
DATA
Thank you.
The Bellboy stands there waiting -- the classic tip
situation, but Data doesn't get it. The Bellboy holds
out his hand. Data shakes it.
DATA
(continuing)
It has been a pleasure.
Data lets go of his hand and steps toward the window
to glance outside.
The Bellboy CLEARS HIS THROAT. Data turns.
DATA
(continuing)
It would be advisable to monitor
that cough. I have read that
there is currently an epidemic
of cholera in San Francisco...
The young man is impatient. Annoyed at having to go
through this to get a tip.
BELLBOY
Never felt better.
Data still doesn't get it. The Bellboy again sticks
out his hand, palm raised. Data stares at it,
considers the situation -- finally understands.
DATA
Of course. The gratuity.
The bellboy gives him an impatient grin of
acknowledgement. Data pulls out a big wad of CASH from
his waistband -- the poker winnings -- and peels off
a dollar bill, handing it to the Bellboy.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/13/92 - ACT THREE 31B.
57 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
(continuing)
Thank you for your assistance.
The Bellboy takes the bill, amazed.
BELLBOY
A dollar!
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/08/92 - ACT THREE 32.
57 CONTINUED: (2)
A beat as the kid stares dumbstruck at Data.
DATA
You are welcome.
The Bellboy steps into the doorway, then turns back to
Data.
BELLBOY
If there's anything you need --
it can get lonely in San
Francisco. You might want some
company. I can introduce you to
Lillian.
Data considers this for a moment.
DATA
I have no need for companionship.
However, I do require some...
supplies.
Data steps over to the desk and picks up a PEN, dipping
it into an INKPOT and writing onto a piece of PAPER.
BELLBOY
Anything you need, I can get it
for you wholesale... I can get
it for you less than wholesale
if you don't ask me where it came
from...
Data hands him the piece of paper. The Bellboy stares
at it, a bit puzzled by what he sees.
BELLBOY
What do you need all this stuff
for?
DATA
I am an inventor...
BELLBOY
No kidding... well this is gonna
take a while. I'll hafta go clear
cross town.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT THREE 32A.
57 CONTINUED: (3)
BELLBOY (cont'd)
(beat)
And it's not gonna be cheap.
Data takes a few more bills off his roll and hands them
to the young man.
DATA
You may retain the surplus for
yourself.
A beat. The Bellboy didn't quite get it.
BELLBOY
Keep the change?
Data recalls the phrase.
DATA
Exactly.
BELLBOY
Done.
The Bellboy is out the door like a shot, slamming it
behind him.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT THREE 33.
57 CONTINUED: (5)
Data goes to the desk and sits down. He takes the pen
and another piece of paper and begins to sketch a
complicated circuit diagram...
58 EXT. STREET - DAY
The Bellboy is shooting along the street, clutching
Data's list in hand, smiling with enthusiasm over the
money and the assignment.
FOLLOW him for half a block, as he approaches the alley
we've seen before. He doesn't stop (or even hear) the
muffled MOAN as he passes by...
BEGGAR (o.s.)
(barely audible)
Help out a Forty-Niner...
As the Bellboy continues on his way --
59 STAY ON THE BEGGAR
propped up against some wooden boxes and other junk in
the alley. He's in really bad shape, head rolling to
the side, eyes half-closed, mumbling to himself,
dying...
BEGGAR
(continuing)
Fell down shaft... Forty-Niner...
Help me... Help me out...
A SHADOW falls over the old man, and even in his
extreme state, he seems to feel the darkness intrude
upon his heart... His eyes struggle open.
60 A COUPLE
are standing in front of him. Both the man and woman
are tall, handsome, elegantly dressed, aristocratic.
But their faces are cold and expressionless -- like
demons. The man holds a CANE with an elaborately
carved SNAKE'S HEAD. The woman carries a VALISE,
almost like a doctor's bag. They stare at the beggar,
as if waiting...
61 INCLUDE THE BEGGAR (OPTICAL)
as his face fills with horror at the apparition.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT THREE 34.
61 CONTINUED:
BEGGAR
No...
He tries to struggle off his back, but there's no
strength left in his body.
BEGGAR
No...
He collapses, eyes closing for the last time...
The couple watch impassively. Then the woman raises
the Valise, aiming it at the dying man.
The Valise GLOWS with a weird lighting effect, and
extends a FIELD out toward the man's body, enveloping
him for a moment, then withdrawing back into the
Valise, which stops glowing.
The couple turn and leave, clearing the screen.
OFF the Forty-Niner, now cold and dead...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/16/92 - ACT FOUR 35.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
62 EXT. ENTERPRISE
In orbit above the planet.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental.
Close-range sensor analysis has
yielded no further trace of
Commander Data. Despite the
emotional repercussions among my
crew, I must move this mission
forward.
63 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Riker, Troi, Geordi, Worf, BEVERLY. Cutting
into the middle of a rare argument between Riker and
Picard.
RIKER
I'm not willing to accept that
he's dead and leave it at that...
PICARD
Mister Data cannot be our
priority...
RIKER
What's more important than Data?
Troi understands best at the table what Picard is
saying, says it with the compassion... understanding
the pain the people at the table are feeling...
TROI
Look at what we have so far...
evidence that these aliens have
been travelling back in time to
Earth...
BEVERLY
What if they're trying to
undermine our history for some
reason... ?
WORF
Some kind of guerilla war...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/09/92 - ACT FOUR 36.
63 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(nods)
We have to operate on the
assumption that there is a
threat... if not to us then to
19th-century Earth. Our first
order of business is to determine
what that threat may be.
(turns to Geordi)
In order to do that, Mister La
Forge, we must find a way to
communicate with these
life-forms...
GEORDI
It's not going to be easy to
reproduce what Data did. We can
create a contained subspace
field... but we'd need an
extraordinarily sensitive phase
discriminator to get that point
zero-zero-four variance.
PICARD
Can you build one?
GEORDI
It won't be as good as Data's...
RIKER
Will it be good enough?
GEORDI
I don't know. I can try... it's
going to take a while...
PICARD
I don't want anyone else going
in alone.
GEORDI
I should be able to create a
subspace field large enough to
encompass everyone. Adjusting
the phase inside the field will
be the hard part.
PICARD
Make it so.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FOUR 37.
63 CONTINUED: (2)
He rises, signalling the end to the meeting.
RIKER
There's one thing we have to
assume, Captain.
Picard looks at Riker...
RIKER
That wherever he is, Data's doing
the same thing we are... trying
to get to the bottom of this...
he may know a lot more about
what's going on than we do. It
might be in the best interests
of this mission to find him...
PICARD
Perhaps in the course of our
investigation we will. I hope
so.
As the others exit, Worf stands back with Riker for
a beat...
WORF
(sotto, to Riker)
If we do find Commander Data, it
may be our fate to die with him...
in the past. If our remains are
in that cavern... they would have
turned to dust long ago.
He exchanges a look with Riker...
64 INT. TEN FORWARD (OPTICAL)
After hours. The lighting is a little dimmer than
normal. Two crewmembers at a far table are the only
customers present.
Guinan is behind the bar, working diligently over a
dozen pieces of variously sized and shaped GLASSWARE,
containing liquids or solid crystals of many hues.
She's carefully pouring from a tiny vial into a LARGE
GLASS, the tension and concentration evident on her
face.
PICARD (o.s.)
(lightly)
I'm afraid to interrupt.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT FOUR 38.
65 INCLUDE PICARD (OPTICAL)
stepping up to the bar as Guinan continues to pour
without answering him until she's emptied the tiny
vial. She relaxes and glances up.
GUINAN
Captain. You didn't have to come
to me. I would've been happy to
go to you.
PICARD
(re: glassware)
And let me miss all this? I
haven't seen such a complex
operation since the Academy lab
final in exochemistry.
GUINAN
It's a Tzartak aperitif. Very,
very touchy.
She picks up a small beaker and carefully pours.
GUINAN
(continuing)
The trick is to change the
evaporation point of the main
ingredient. You want the
temperature where the liquid goes
to vapor to be half a degree below
the body temperature of your
customer.
She adds a few tiny crystals to the glass.
GUINAN
(continuing)
That way, the moment the liquid
touches the tongue, it evaporates.
The flavor is carried entirely
by the vapor.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FOUR 39.
65 CONTINUED:
She adds a few drops of liquid to the glass.
GUINAN
(continuing)
But it's a highly delicate affair.
A few molecules off and the vapor
point crashes. Poof. It's gone.
All of it.
A long beat as Picard studies her.
PICARD
What did you want to see me about?
A beat as Guinan studies her glassware.
GUINAN
I hear you're sending an away team
down to the surface.
PICARD
Yes.
GUINAN
Are you going along?
Picard reacts to the question.
PICARD
This is rather unusual... for you
to be curious about an away
mission...
Guinan shrugs, starts slowly adding, drop by drop,
another liquid to the glass.
GUINAN
Maybe it's an unusual away
mission.
PICARD
Guinan, if you have something to
tell me, I'm listening.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FOUR 40.
65 CONTINUED: (2)
Guinan stops pouring. She stares straight at him, is
more direct than we've ever seen her.
GUINAN
Starfleet captains usually don't
accompany away teams...
PICARD
(agrees)
That's general policy...
GUINAN
This time you have to...
PICARD
Why?
GUINAN
You just... do.
He studies her a long beat... he needs more than that
and she knows it.
GUINAN
You remember when we first met?
PICARD
Of course.
GUINAN
Don't be so sure.
PICARD
What do you mean?
GUINAN
I mean... if you don't go on this
mission...
She drops a single tiny crystal into the glass. A
beat, then the liquid in the glass suddenly and
furiously BOILS away in less than one second.
GUINAN
... we didn't.
OFF Picard's reaction.
66 EXT. SAN FRANCISCO HOTEL - DAY - ESTABLISHING
- STOCK
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT FOUR 40A-41.
67 INT. DATA'S HOTEL ROOM - DAY
Data is at his desk, using a high-tech device he has
built out of 19th-century materials. He is working
on the exposed PHASER HOUSING. Data is now completely
dressed in 19th-century clothing -- days have passed
since we last saw him.
SOUND: A heavy, low, muffled THUMP offscreen.
Data glances up toward the door. A beat and he turns
back to the work at hand.
Another THUMP. This time closer. Data continues to
work. Another beat, another THUMP.
Data finally sets down the instrument and moves toward
the door.
The loudest THUMP yet, right outside. Data opens the
door.
68 OMITTED
69 INCLUDE THE BELLBOY
at the doorstep. Tucked in his back pocket is a
rolled-up NEWSPAPER and at his feet is a HUGE ANVIL.
The young man has obviously just moved it up the stairs
to Data's room. He appears exhausted.
BELLBOY
Sorry it took so long, Mister
Data.
DATA
An apology is not required.
Data casually reaches down with one hand -- AND PICKS
UP THE ANVIL as though it weighed an ounce. He starts
toward the center of the room -- there's a noise of
astonishment from the Bellboy.
Data STOPS, knowing he's just made a huge mistake.
The android quickly sets down the anvil, as if dropping
it. He clutches his arm as though strained.
BELLBOY
You alright?
DATA
I appear to have overexerted
myself...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/09/92 - ACT FOUR 42.
69 CONTINUED:
BELLBOY
I'll say.
A beat as the kid glances up at the light bouncing
around the room. There's a glint of curiosity and
lightness in his eyes that we've never seen before.
BELLBOY
You got it working.
Data pulls out a dollar for tip money and hands it to
the Bellboy, but the young man IGNORES it, continuing
to stare fascinated at the light bouncing around the
room.
DATA
Yes.
BELLBOY
Whatever it is.
DATA
(re: money)
This is for your trouble.
The Bellboy accepts it, but distractedly, as if more
interested in what Data's created.
BELLBOY
What are you gonna do with the
anvil?
DATA
I require a low intensity,
magnetic field core. The
iron mass of the anvil will
provide that.
The kid nods without comprehension.
BELLBOY
What's it gonna be when it's
finished?
Data cocks his head as he tries to form a reply...
DATA
What do you think it is... "gonna
be"... ?
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FOUR 42A.
69 CONTINUED: (2)
BELLBOY
If I were to guess... maybe a new
kind of motor for one of those
horseless carriages...
DATA
That is a good guess.
BELLBOY
No kiddin'. Damn. You really
think there's money in those
things?
DATA
(beat)
Perhaps.
BELLBOY
Isn't that what makes America
great?
DATA
To what are you referring?
BELLBOY
Man rides into town in his
pajamas... wins a grub stake at
a poker table and turns it into
a horseless carriage and makes
a million bucks. That's America.
DATA
(concerned at the
conclusion)
Perhaps I have given you an
erroneous impression...
BELLBOY
Some day my ship's gonna come
in...
DATA
You have a ship?
BELLBOY
Oh sure... and it's fulla gold...
I'm just biding my time til it
gets here... raising a stake any
way I can... I've been a newsie,
cut fish at a cannery, I've even
been an oyster pirate...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT FOUR 43.
69 CONTINUED: (3)
DATA
That is a considerable spectrum
of occupations.
BELLBOY
Can't stay in one place too
long... I'm always looking for
the angle, you know... say, maybe
you and I could go into business
selling your horseless
carriage... you invent 'em, I
sell 'em... I can sell anybody
anything, whattaya say?
DATA
I believe your plan is a bit
premature.
BELLBOY
Keep it in mind though. Well,
I better get back...
He starts to leave and the young man suddenly remembers
the newspaper in his back pocket.
BELLBOY
I forgot! I got you something
at the bakery on Third.
He sets the paper down on the desk by Data, unrolling
it to reveal the pastry inside.
DATA
Thank you, Jack.
Data starts to pick out some coins to pay him back, but
the young man brushes it off.
BELLBOY
It's on me... partner.
And EXITS. Data reaches over to make an adjustment on
the phaser housing.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT FOUR 44.
69 CONTINUED: (4)
The newsprint and pastry are slightly in his way, so he
picks up the edges of the paper and starts to slide it
aside -- WHEN SOMETHING CATCHES HIS EYE. DATA STOPS
DEAD, STARING AT THE NEWSPAPER.
70 CLOSE ON THE PAPER
A caption reads: "Literary Reception Announced." Above
the words is the hostess' face. IT'S GUINAN. And it's
unmistakable.
71 RESUME DATA
as stunned as an android can be...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 45.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
72 EXT. SAN FRANCISCO VICTORIAN HOME - DAY
To establish.
73 INT. BALLROOM - DAY
An elegant reception. About two dozen well-dressed
19th-century society people are chatting in small
groups. A single narrow TABLE holds drinks and
canapes.
CLEMENS (o.s.)
The eminent scientist, Alfred
Russell Wallace, has revived the
theory that Earth is at the center
of the stellar universe.
74 ON THE GENTLEMAN
who from the white hair and suit, bushy eyebrows, large
Cuban cigar, and soft Southern drawl is unmistakably
SAMUEL CLEMENS, a.k.a. MARK TWAIN. There are a couple
of people at the side, listening, but from this angle,
we don't see to whom he is primarily directing his
comments.
CLEMENS
(continuing))
This distinguished natural
philosopher has reaffirmed our
planet as the only habitable globe
in the Heavens. A world
constructed, furthermore, for the
sole benefit of man.
(beat)
He's gotten a lot of folks excited
about the notion.
75 INCLUDE GUINAN
dressed in 19th-century costume, but with a couple of
exotic touches (as though she were royalty from a
far-flung island).
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 46.
75 CONTINUED:
GUINAN
Mister Clemens, why do I suspect
you're not one of them?
Her comment generates easy SMILES from Clemens and the
others. Clemens is witty, charming -- but deeply
cynical.
CLEMENS
(lightly)
Your suspicions, Madam Guinan,
are undoubtedly based upon your
keen observational skills. Now
if you'll permit me, I'll continue
my character assassination
unimpeded.
Everyone laughs.
GUINAN
Please do.
Clemens takes a big puff on his cigar.
CLEMENS
According to our best geologic
estimate, the earth is
approximately one hundred million
years of age. Perhaps it is less,
perhaps more.
GUINAN
Perhaps a great deal more.
CLEMENS
(nodding)
Indeed. But regardless, it is
ancient in the extreme. Now,
geology also tells us that Man
himself has existed for but a
microscopic fraction of those
years.
Clemens blows a big puff of cigar smoke into the air.
CLEMENS
Curious, isn't it, that the world
got by for such a great long while
with no Humans around to take up
space?
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 47.
75 CONTINUED: (2)
CLEMENS (cont'd)
I suppose Mister Wallace and his
supporters would say the world
needed all that time to prepare
everything for our illustrious
arrival.
Clemens reaches out and casually takes an OYSTER canape
off the plate of a GENTLEMAN standing near. He appears
to study it carefully...
CLEMENS
(re: the canape)
The oyster alone probably required
fifteen million years to come out
just right...
Everyone laughs as he pops the canape into his mouth.
A beat and Guinan gives him a sly smile.
GUINAN
And if the Earth isn't alone...
If there are millions of
inhabited planets in the
Heavens...
CLEMENS
Quite my point. Man becomes a
trivial creation, does he not?
Lost in the vastness of the cosmic
prairie, adrift on the deep ocean
of time. A single one among
countless others.
Clemens appears pleased with himself. Guinan casually
shrugs.
GUINAN
Then again, someone might say a
diamond is still a diamond -- even
if it is one among millions. It
still shines as brightly.
Touch<63>. A beat as Clemens studies her for a moment,
then smiles.
CLEMENS
Indeed, someone might say that,
Dear Lady. If someone thought
the Human race were akin to a
precious jewel.
Clemens puffs the cigar and lets out the smoke.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 48.
75 CONTINUED: (3)
CLEMENS
(continuing)
But this increasingly hypothetical
someone would not be me.
Guinan smiles.
76 ON THE ENTRYWAY - FAR ACROSS THE ROOM
where Data has just ENTERED, wearing the fine clothes
of a 19th-century gentleman. He pauses, scanning the
room.
DOORMAN (o.s.)
Good afternoon, sir.
Include the DOORMAN, a large man appropriately dressed,
holding a GUESTLIST. The man eyes Data, reacting
momentarily to his skin color, but then taking it in
stride.
Data shoots his cuffs, as if confident in his new role.
DATA
Good afternoon. I would like to
speak to Guinan.
DOORMAN
(re: guestlist)
And you are... ?
Data's confidence suddenly flags as he realizes there's
a list.
DATA
Data.
The man checks the list.
DOORMAN
Mister Data... Could it be under
another name?
DATA
I do not know...
The Doorman is hesitant about possibly offending a
misplaced invitee.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 49.
76 CONTINUED:
DOORMAN
I... can't seem to find you on
our guest list, sir.
DATA
I am a personal friend.
DOORMAN
Madam Guinan has discovered many
personal friends since the
newspaper announcement. But if
you're not on the guest list,
there's nothing I can do.
Data will not be denied, begins to move inside...
DATA
It is urgent that I see her...
The Doorman tries to block his way...
DOORMAN
-- Sir, if you don't leave this
house immediately, I will send
for the police.
DATA
That is an excellent idea. I will
wait for them inside.
Data STRIDES STRAIGHT into the party. The Doorman
grabs onto him, but is dragged along like a rag doll by
Data's android strength.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FIVE 50.
77 ON GUINAN AND COMPANY
still enjoying the conversation.
DOORMAN (o.s.)
Sir! Please!
Guinan and Clemens and the others turn toward the
noise.
78 INCLUDE DATA
as he approaches them, dragging the Doorman behind him.
DATA
Guinan, I must speak with you
immediately.
Data stops in front of her. She reacts... looks at him
without an ounce of recognition.
DOORMAN
(out of breath)
Forgive me, madam... He's stronger
than he looks.
DATA
(to Guinan)
I am sorry about the disruption,
but he did not believe me when
I told him we were friends.
GUINAN
"We?" Meaning you and me? Have
we met, Mister...
DATA
(puzzled)
Data.
Guinan looks completely blank. Data reacts -- SHE
DOESN'T KNOW HIM.
DATA
Yes. We... were on a ship
together.
Guinan smiles, trying to socially defuse the situation,
as well as find out who this strange man is. Clemens
is keenly observant.
GUINAN
I've certainly done my share of
travelling. What ship?
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FIVE 51-52.
78 CONTINUED:
DATA
The Enterprise.
GUINAN
Is that a clipper ship?
DATA
It is a starship.
Guinan REACTS -- suddenly she knows she's dealing with
an alien like herself. But she also is acutely aware
of the need to maintain appearances.
CLEMENS
(puzzled)
A starship? What registry would
that be?
GUINAN
Mister Data. Of course.
(to Clemens)
Excuse us, but we have so much
to catch up on...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FIVE 53.
78 CONTINUED: (2)
Guinan quickly hurries Data OFFSCREEN. Clemens is left
with his hand in the air. He reaches up for his cigar
and takes a long puff, staring in the direction the
pair disappeared, a look of intrigued suspicion on his
face...
79
thru OMITTED
80
81 ON DATA AND GUINAN
as Guinan pulls him past the partygoers and around
a door.
GUINAN
Let me guess. My father sent you.
Well, you tell him I've still got
a lot more listening to do --
DATA
-- I was not sent by your father.
A beat; Data realizes that she doesn't know who he is,
but decides he has no choice.
DATA
Circumstances demand that I take
you into my confidence. I require
your assistance.
A pause, then Data spills the beans.
DATA
(continuing)
I am from the future.
Guinan reacts with surprise.
GUINAN
Is this some kind of a joke?
She stares at his guileless face.
GUINAN
(continuing)
No, you don't look like the joking
type.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 54.
81 CONTINUED:
DATA
That is correct. I am from the
twenty-fourth century, where you
and I serve together on the same
starship.
Guinan lets this sink in for a moment. Accepts it, for
now.
GUINAN
Why do you need my help?
DATA
Our ship encountered a species
who appear to be threatening 19th-
century Earth. I investigated,
and was inadvertently pulled into
their temporal vortex.
(beat)
When I saw your photograph in the
newspaper, I assumed you had
joined me from the future. I know
your species is long-lived --
but I did not realize you had
visited Earth so long ago.
Data suddenly NOTICES SOMETHING behind Guinan --
81A A TENDRIL OF SMOKE
wafting up from behind the door. Data and Guinan look
from the smoke to each other.
82 FOLLOW DATA AND GUINAN
as they step around the corner...
83 INCLUDE CLEMENS
inches away from them, the big cigar firmly in hand.
CLEMENS
Eavesdropping is by no means a
proper activity for a gentleman.
(beat)
Nonetheless, the deed is done...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 55.
83 CONTINUED:
OFF the look between Data and Guinan -- he's heard
everything.
84 EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
In orbit above the planet.
85 EXT. PLANET SURFACE - NIGHT
Riker, Troi, Geordi, Worf and Beverly... all
participate in the preparation of the field... there is
a variety of technical gear with them... one three-foot-
high generator with controls and readouts, three
two-foot-high relay stations akin to a small satellite
receiver... Geordi wields a tricorder pinpointing the
perimeter...
GEORDI
Here...
Worf sets down a generator expertly... aims it at
Crusher and Riker about twenty yards away...
86 BEVERLY AND RIKER
are doing roughly the same exercise... Beverly with
the tricorder...
BEVERLY
The triolic waves end... right...
here...
Riker sets up a relay station, aligns it with Worf...
87 GEORDI
has moved to join Troi against the rockface... who has
already set up another relay... Geordi checks it with
his tricorder...
GEORDI
That's fine, Counselor...
As he moves to meet Worf against a parallel section
of rockface who is setting up the last relay station...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 56.
88 ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Picard MATERIALIZES... the away team reacts...
PICARD
How soon will you be ready?
GEORDI
I think we are, Captain...
Geordi goes to the generator and hits a panel, an
optical flash passes between the generator and the
three relays and disappears... the area is not a
perfect square...
GEORDI
The subspace field is established.
He looks at Riker for further instructions... Riker is
beginning to worry about the captain's unexpected
arrival... if it means he wants to be here for this, he
has a big problem with that...
RIKER
I'd feel more comfortable if you'd
monitor us from the ship, captain.
PICARD
I have reason to believe my
presence on this mission is
imperative.
RIKER
Imperative?
PICARD
Yes.
(beat)
Mister Worf, you will report to
the bridge.
WORF
Sir... as security officer, my
place is by your side.
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FIVE 57.
88 CONTINUED:
PICARD
The security of the Enterprise
is of paramount importance,
Lieutenant.
WORF
(beat)
Yes, sir.
(hits combadge)
Worf to Enterprise.
TRANSPORTER OFFICER COM VOICE
Go ahead.
WORF
(not pleased)
Beam me up.
TRANSPORTER OFFICER COM VOICE
Stand by.
Worf DEMATERIALIZES.
PICARD
Proceed, Mister La Forge.
Riker accepts the inevitable. Geordi is holding a
modified tricorder...
GEORDI
(for Picard's benefit)
I've modified this tricorder to
interface with the subspace
generator... It should allow me
to control the phase
discrimination... assuming it's
going to work at all...
(off Picard's nod)
I'll need everyone within the
field...
Everyone passes between the relays... another optical
flash as they pass through the invisible line...
GEORDI
Adjusting for synchronic
distortion... point-zero-zero-one...
And with each count, there is a continuous lighting
change... slowly being bathed in a blue light...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/08/92 - ACT FIVE 58.
88 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
(continuing)
...point-zero-zero-two...
point-zero-zero-three...
And as the blue hue increases, now figures begin to
APPEAR...
89 ANGLE (OPTICAL)
a group of ALIENS in reclining positions on the ground,
arranged loosely in a circle... each of them is
silver-gray, a vaguely humanoid shape with very round
heads, no facial features to speak of... except a
blowhole where the forehead might ordinarily be... in
their center, built into the ground, is a TRANSLUCENT
HOLDING CHAMBER, glowing and flashing from within (like
a light ball spinning inside). On the side of the
chamber is a techno-organic, nipplelike projection.
Periodically, the chamber DISPENSES an energy segment
from its lower recesses... and as it emerges one of
the aliens on a rotating basis sucks it into his
blowhole...
90 THE AWAY TEAM (OPTICAL)
reacts... a beat as the aliens continue to ignore
them.
PICARD
Why can we see them when they
can't see us?
GEORDI
The phase displacement might not
bring us far enough into their
perceptual range.
91 PICARD (OPTICAL)
moves up close to look at one... it ignores him...
keeps sucking energy...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/08/92 - ACT FIVE 59.
91 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(with tricorder)
These strands appear to be
biomagnetic... variable flux...
they must be organic in origin...
PICARD
A life-form... ?
92 TROI AND RIKER (OPTICAL)
move to the translucent chamber... the lights continue
to flash from within... moving around, darting... and
again, once in awhile, one is dispensed out the bottom
and disappears into an alien blowhole... Troi is
getting strong feelings now... she is overwhelmed with
the power of the emotions she feels... and she can't
help raising one hand to the chamber and gently
touching it...
A tear rolls down her cheek...
TROI
No. There is no life here...
what I have sensed is only an
imprint, an echo from the last
moment of life... Human life...
they all died in terror...
There is a sonic boom... a bright light and they react,
turn to see...
93 ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Two more aliens arriving through a hole of swirling
white light... one carries a canister... the other
a glowing, snakelike object... the noise is
deafening...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - REV. 4/07/92 - ACT FIVE 60.
94 THE AWAY TEAM
surrounded by the swirling wind, now bathed in the
combination of blue and white light. (They are far
enough away to avoid being sucked in like Data was.)
They react to the sight of the newcomer aliens...
95 THE ALIENS (OPTICAL)
move to the transparent chamber. One of them
attaches the canister to the nipplelike projection
on the chamber's side... new segments enter the tube
from the canister... and the chamber gets brighter...
96 THE AWAY TEAM
watches in horror... over the din --
RIKER
My God... they're delivering more
of them... for the others to...
ingest...
TROI
(reacts with surprise
to something she sees)
Will, look at what he's
carrying...
Riker looks at the other alien with the squiggling
object...
97 ANGLE - CLOSE ON THE OBJECT (OPTICAL)
as it twists in the alien's hands... and opens a mouth
revealing itself to be something akin to a snake...
and it struggles to escape but the alien grips it
harder...
98 THE OTHER ALIEN (OPTICAL)
removes the canister from the holding tank and they
move back to the white light and are drawn in...
STAR TREK: "Time's Arrow" - 4/06/92 - ACT FIVE 61.
99 RIKER (OPTICAL)
looks to Picard... who exchanges a look with the others
and with a nod, the captain leads the way to the
anomaly... as they move closer with grim determination
on their faces, they enter into the force... and
disappear into the white light... which twists itself
up and disappears... and without a freeze frame... we
stay for several beats on the silent, desolate
landscape and only then do we super:
TO BE CONTINUED
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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