startrek-ml/Data/StarTrekTheNextGeneration/261.txt

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                       "Force of Nature" 
                          #40277-261 
                              
                          Written by 
                         Naren Shankar 
                              
                          Directed by 
                         Bob Lederman 


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 1993 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 This script is not for publication or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

                      SEPTEMBER 17, 1993

        STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                       "Force of Nature" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             PRAK
                RIKER              RABAL
                DATA               SEROVA
                BEVERLY            
                TROI               
                WORF               
                GEORDI  
           
                Non-Speaking  
                  N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES
                  N.D. SECURITY      
                  SPOT               

        STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                       "Force of Nature" 
                       
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                    EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE               USS ENTERPRISE
              BRIDGE
              GEORDI'S QUARTERS/BEDROOM  ALIEN SHIP
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE
              ENGINEERING
              JEFFERIES TUBE
              DATA'S QUARTERS
              STELLAR PHOTOGRAPHY LAB
              READY ROOM
              TEN FORWARD

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                       "Force of Nature" 
                         
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

                   HEKARAS         huh-CARE-us
                   RABAL           ruh-BALL
                   SEROVA          suh-ROE-va
                   TETRYON         TEH-tree-on
                   VERTERON        VURR-ter-on

      STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - TEASER      1.

                STAR TREK: The Next Generation                  
                       "Force of Nature"                            
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    INT. GEORDI'S QUARTERS - ANGLE ON DOOR

	The door CHIME sounds.

					GEORDI (O.S.)
				(harried)
			Come in!

	The DOOR OPENS and DATA ENTERS. He looks around the
	room for a moment -- it's apparently empty.

					DATA
			Geordi... ?

					GEORDI (O.S.)
			I'm in here...

	The voice is coming from the bedroom. As Data moves
	toward it, he sees PIECES OF A BROKEN VASE strewn all
	over the floor.

2    THE BEDROOM

	Data ENTERS the bedroom to see GEORDI on his hands and
	knees, looking at something under the bed.

					GEORDI
			I've got her now, Data... she's
			trapped.

					DATA
				(puzzled)
			Who?

	Geordi gives him a sharp look.

					GEORDI
			Your demented cat.

	Data moves to the other side of the bed and peers
	curiously underneath.

					DATA
			I do not understand. Why is Spot
			under the bed?

      STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - TEASER      2.

2    CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Probably because she knows I'll
			kill her if I get my hands on her.

					DATA
			Has Spot been misbehaving?

					GEORDI
			That's putting it mildly. So far
			she's broken a vase and a teapot,
			destroyed my couch by using it as
			a scratching post, and coughed up
			hairballs on my carpet.

					DATA
			These incidents are common to cat
			owners. When you borrowed Spot,
			you said you wanted to experience
			the full range of feline behavior
			before getting a cat yourself.

					GEORDI
			Yeah, well, I don't think I'm
			ready for one. You can take her
			back, with my blessings.

	A beat as Data stares under the bed.

					GEORDI
			Well? Go ahead -- call her.

					DATA
			Spot does not respond to verbal
			commands.

					GEORDI
			She won't come when you call her?

					DATA
			No.

					GEORDI
			Data, have you ever considered
			training her?

					DATA
				(pondering)
			I have never found it to be
			necessary.

					GEORDI
			Necessary? That cat is out of
			control.
					(MORE)

      STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - TEASER      3.

2    CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI (Cont'd)
			Half the time I wasn't sure if she
			was going to lick me or scratch my
			face off.

					DATA
			I have never experienced that kind
			of behavior from Spot.
				(beat)
			Although she does have the
			unfortunate habit of jumping onto
			my computer console when I am
			working.

					GEORDI
			There, see? She needs training.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Riker to senior staff. Please
			report to the observation lounge.
			Mission briefing in ten minutes.

					GEORDI
			Okay, we have to get her out from
			under there. I'll scare her --
			you grab her when she comes out.

					DATA
			I do not think it would be wise to
			startle her --

	But Geordi makes his move.

					GEORDI
			Now!

	SPOT goes streaking out from under the bed -- not
	toward Data -- and dashes into the other room.

					GEORDI
			Uh-oh...

	There's a resounding CRASH from the next room. Geordi
	casts a baleful eye at Data.

					GEORDI
			Training.
				(beat)
			Definitely.

      STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - TEASER      4.

2    CONTINUED: (3)

	Off Data's reaction...

                                             FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

      STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT ONE      5.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

          (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)            

3    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	at impulse.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's Log, Stardate 47310.2.
			We are investigating the
			disappearance of the Medical
			Transport Fleming somewhere in the
			Hekaras Corridor. Our search is
			complicated by the unique
			properties of this particular
			region of space.

4    INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	PICARD, RIKER, Data, TROI, BEVERLY, WORF, and Geordi
	are seated at the conference table. The mood is upbeat --
	even though the mission is serious, it's still fairly
	routine.

					RIKER
			The Fleming's last contact with
			Starfleet was four days ago. They
			didn't report anything out of the
			ordinary when they entered the
			Corridor...

	Riker nods to Data who rises and moves to the large
	monitor which is displaying an OKUDAGRAM of a subspace
	map of the Hekaras Corridor. The graphic indicates a
	long, path-like trail threading its way through several
	star systems.

					DATA
			The unusually intense tetryon
			fields in this sector pose a
			severe navigational hazard to warpdriven
			vessels...

	Data indicates the path-like structure on the graphic.

      STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT ONE      6.

4    CONTINUED:

					DATA
				(continuing)
			The Hekaras Corridor is the only
			route through the area which is
			free of tetryon fields. Ships
			travelling at warp must use the
			Corridor to ensure safe passage
			through the region.

					PICARD
			How long will it take to complete
			a level-one search?

					DATA
			At least two days, sir. The
			Corridor is over twelve lightyears
			long, and the surrounding
			tetryon interference will limit
			our sensor range.

	Picard nods and Data takes his seat.

					WORF
			Could we send out reconnaissance
			probes to supplement the sensors?

					GEORDI
			They won't be very effective. The
			interference will make it
			difficult to maintain contact with
			the probes; the best we can do is
			to try increasing the sensor
			efficiency.
				(beat; to Picard)
			We're installing multi-phase
			buffers on all the sensor modules.
			It should help a little.

	Troi, meanwhile, has been studying the graphic.

					TROI
			Hekaras Two is inhabited, isn't
			it? Maybe they've had contact
			with the Fleming.

	Riker shakes his head.

					RIKER
			They haven't. I've already spoken
			with the Hekaran government.
					(MORE)

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT ONE   7.

4    CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER (Cont'd)
			According to them, only one ship
			has passed through their system in
			the last week... and that was a
			Ferengi trader.

	Beverly reacts.

					BEVERLY
			The Fleming was carrying a supply
			of bio-mimetic gel... it's rare
			and quite valuable. Do you think
			it's possible the Ferengi could
			have hijacked it?

					RIKER
				(considers)
			I wouldn't put it past them.
				(beat; to Picard)
			We should be prepared for that
			contingency.

					PICARD
			Agreed.

	Picard makes his decisions.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			All right then. Mister Worf,
			initiate your search pattern.
			Let's head in.

	The meeting breaks up.

                                             CUT TO:

4A   INT. ENGINEERING

	Geordi is at the warp core. The DILITHIUM CHAMBER is
	open and he is working intently on the innards with a
	TECH TOOL. Several N.D.s are working in the b.g.

	Data ENTERS and moves to Geordi.

					DATA
			Geordi, we have experienced a
			slight drop in sensor efficiency.
			Commander Riker would like us to
			examine the phase buffers.

	Geordi does not look up from his work immediately.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT ONE   7A.

4A   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			No problem, Data... I'll be with
			you in a minute...

	Geordi works another beat and then turns to an N.D.

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			All right, Hansen, transfer EPS
			conduit thirteen through the
			stabilizer matrix.

					VOICE (O.C.)
			Aye, sir.

	Geordi closes the chamber, moves to another console and
	continues working. Data follows him, curious.

					DATA
			Geordi, is there a problem with
			the engines?

					GEORDI
			No, not really...

					DATA
			Then why are you stabilizing the
			EPS conduit?

	A beat. Geordi looks up from the console.

					GEORDI
			I'm just trying to get a slightly
			higher power conversion level...

					DATA
				(considering it)
			That would not affect the engines
			in any way.

					GEORDI
			I know. That's not the point.

	Data seems puzzled.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT ONE   7B.

4A   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			Then... what is "the point?"

					GEORDI
				(a bit evasive)
			I just... want the best conversion
			level I can get.

					DATA
			Why?

	There is a beat. Somewhat reluctantly...

					GEORDI
			It's the Intrepid.
				(off Data's reaction)
			Their Chief Engineer is Commander
			Donald Kaplan. We went through
			the Academy together. And... I
			kind of like to make sure our
			power conversion level is... a
			little higher than theirs.

					DATA
			I understand. You are in
			competition with Mister Kaplan.

	Geordi doesn't want to admit to that.

					GEORDI
			No, it's not really a
			competition...
				(beat)
			This is the flagship. It just
			seems to me -- we should be better
			than the rest.

					DATA
			That does sound like a competitive
			position.

					GEORDI
			It's more a matter of personal
			pride. I mean... these are my
			engines.

					DATA
			But you are trying to outperform
			the Intrepid.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT ONE   7C.

4A   CONTINUED: (3)

					GEORDI
			Well... yeah.

	Geordi works the console for a beat.

					GEORDI
			Computer. How much have the
			conversion levels increased?

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Levels are unchanged.

	Geordi's frustration is evident as Data waits
	patiently.

					GEORDI
			All right, we'll deal with of this
			later...

	Geordi grabs a TECH TOOL and moves toward the Jefferies
	tube.

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			Let's take a look at those
			sensors.

	Data and Geordi EXIT into the Jefferies tube.

5    INT. JEFFERIES TUBE

	Geordi and Data are moving through a section of the
	VERTICAL JEFFERIES TUBE. They stop at a junction, and
	Geordi opens a MEESPANEL. He begins to work on it with
	a TECH TOOL as Data monitors his progress with a
	TRICORDER.

					GEORDI
			Okay -- how's that?

					DATA
			The phase buffer is functioning
			within normal parameters. Sensor
			efficiency has increased six-point-seven
			percent.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/23/93 - ACT ONE   8.

5    CONTINUED:

	Geordi closes the panel, still not quite satisfied.

					GEORDI
			Only six-point-seven? One of the
			stages must still be out of
			alignment...
				(beat)
			Let's check out junction A-nine.

	Data acknowledges and they begin to climb down the
	tube.

					DATA
			Geordi, I have taken your
			suggestion regarding Spot.

					GEORDI
			What suggestion?

					DATA
			I have begun to train her. I am
			currently testing several
			techniques.

	Geordi isn't really interested to hear about Data's
	cat.

					GEORDI
			Really...

	Data continues talking as they move into a horizontal
	section...

6    ANOTHER JEFFERIES TUBE - HORIZONTAL SECTION

	Moving along the tube...

					DATA
			I began with simple conditioned
			response exercises and followed
			with various environmental
			enhancements. Next I intend to
			explore bio-conditioning devices.

					GEORDI
			Devices?

					DATA
			Such as sensor nets for behavior
			modification... or bio-feedback
			motivators...
				(beat)
			Unfortunately, I have been largely
			unsuccessful...

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/23/93 - ACT ONE   9.

6    CONTINUED:

	Geordi stops at a MEESPANEL and opens it up. He takes
	out his (TECH) tool and begins working.

					GEORDI
				(kidding)
			How about a phaser? A low stun
			setting at the right moment might
			do the trick...

	Data reacts -- he's taking the suggestion seriously.

					DATA
			Geordi. I will not stun my cat.

					GEORDI
			I was just kidding...

	Geordi works for another moment, then closes the panel.

					GEORDI
			This isn't it, either.

					DATA
			There is clearly a misalignment
			somewhere in this system.

					GEORDI
			That's for sure...
				(thinks)
			There's one more possibility...
			let's take a look at junction C-twelve...

	They move off down the tube...

6A   JEFFERIES TUBE - ANOTHER SECTION

	moving along the tube...

					DATA
			I am somewhat concerned that my
			training efforts will ultimately
			fail...

					GEORDI
			Well, maybe you're just going
			about it the wrong way.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/23/93 - ACT ONE   9A.

6A   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			I have consulted numerous animal
			behavior manuals; several of them
			claim that cats are inherently
			untrainable.

					GEORDI
			I don't believe that. My sister
			didn't know a thing about animals
			and she was able to train her cat.
			How complicated could it be?

					DATA
				(curious)
			What did she train her cat to do?

					GEORDI
				(thinks about it)
			Well... her cat would jump into
			her arms on command.

	Data is intrigued by the notion.

					DATA
			That is interesting. Perhaps I
			could modify your sister's
			technique to keep Spot off my
			console. Do you know how she was
			able to train her cat?

					GEORDI
				(amused)
			Well, as I recall, she had to walk
			around for about two months with
			a piece of tuna in her blouse...

	Data reacts.

	In the meantime, they have reached another MEESPANEL.
	Geordi opens it and checks it out...

					GEORDI
			I was right... this buffer is out
			of alignment...
				(beat, works)
			All right... how's that?

	Data scans the panel with his tricorder.

					DATA
			The phase alignment is
			stabilizing...
					(MORE)

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/23/93 - ACT ONE   9B.

6A   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA (Cont'd)
				(beat)
			However, sensor efficiency has
			only increased an additional one-point-three
			percent.

					GEORDI
			Well, that's not much, but every
			little bit helps.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Riker to Data.

					DATA
				(taps combadge)
			Data here.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			We're picking up a ship ahead on
			long range sensors. If you and
			Geordi are through down there,
			we'd like to have you on the
			Bridge.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/23/93 - ACT ONE   10.

6A   CONTINUED: (3)

	Data looks at Geordi who closes the panel.

					GEORDI
			We've squeezed as much out of
			these systems as we're going to
			get.

					DATA
				(to com)
			Acknowledged, sir. We are on our
			way.

	Data moves off down the tube. Geordi takes one last,
	satisfied look at his repair and then follows Data down
	the tube.

                                             CUT TO:

7    INT. BRIDGE

	Picard and Riker are at their command stations; Worf is
	working his console at Tactical; various N.D.s are at
	the other stations.

					WORF
			We are within visual range, sir.

					PICARD
			On screen.

	Worf works his console and...

8    THE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	activates, showing a Ferengi ship drifting in space.
	The ship is completely dark and there is no glow from
	its warp engines.

9    RESUME SCENE

	Data and Geordi ENTER from the aft Turbolift; Geordi
	moves to Aft Science and Data moves to Ops, relieving
	the N.D. as Riker examines the readout of his chair
	console.

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			This is the same Ferengi ship that
			entered the Corridor a week ago.
					(MORE)

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT ONE     11.

9    CONTINUED:

	Geordi studies his console closely.

					GEORDI
			Captain, there are no emissions
			from their plasma vents. Their
			warp drive must be completely
			inactive.

					DATA
				(off console)
			That is correct, sir. Their
			impulse systems appear to be down
			as well... power generation is at
			extremely low levels.

					PICARD
			What about life signs?

					DATA
				(off console)
			Life support is also functioning,
			at low levels. There are
			approximately four-hundred fifty
			Ferengi on board. That is a
			standard complement for a vessel
			of this class.

	A puzzling beat.

					PICARD
			Mister Worf, open a hailing
			frequency.

	A beat as Worf works his console.

					WORF
			No response on any channel, sir.

					GEORDI
				(off console)
			I'm not reading any subspace
			emissions from their ship at all,
			sir. It looks like every one of
			their field coils has been
			overloaded.

					RIKER
			That would explain why they didn't
			respond to our hails...

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT ONE     12.

9    CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			It would also explain the failure
			of their warp drive.

	A beat.

					GEORDI
			Sir, the Feregni sensors are still
			functioning. I could modify one
			of our deflector emitters to
			transmit old-style delta waves...
			if I modulate that with a com
			signal, the Ferengi should be able
			to pick it up.

					PICARD
			Make it so.

	Geordi moves to another console and begins working.

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			Well, if they did hijack the
			Fleming, they certainly didn't get
			very far with the cargo.

					PICARD
			Mister Worf, have tractor beams
			standing by... we may have to take
			them under tow...
				(beat)
			Helm, bring us within tractor
			range...

					WORF
				(puzzled, off console)
			Captain, I am picking up power
			emissions from the Ferengi ship...
				(urgently)
			They are locking weapons!

					PICARD
				(quickly)
			Raise shields --

	Picard barely gets the words out as the SHIP SHAKES
	from the blast. The RED ALERT lights flash and the
	KLAXONS sound.

	OFF reactions.
                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT TWO     13.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

10   INT. BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

	The SHIP SHAKES again as another blast from the Ferengi
	vessel connects. Picard and Riker quickly bark out
	their orders.

					RIKER
			Ready phasers. Prepare to return
			fire.

					PICARD
			Target their weapons array only.

					WORF
			Phasers locked.

					PICARD
			Fire.

11   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	fires its phasers, hitting the Ferengi ship.

12   INT. BRIDGE

					DATA
			Direct hit.
				(beat)
			Their weapon systems are down.

					PICARD
				(to Worf)
			Damage report.

					WORF
				(off console)
			We sustained minimal damage on
			decks five and seven, sir.

					DATA
			Sir, the Ferengi ship's power has
			stabilized... they appear to have
			impulse capability.

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT TWO     14.

12   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			They were just playing dead...
			conserving power until we got in
			close enough.

					PICARD
			But why attack us in the first
			place?

					RIKER
			Somehow I don't think they're
			going to let us beam over and ask
			them...

	Picard turns to Geordi who's still working.

					PICARD
			Mister La Forge, how are you
			coming with that com link?

					GEORDI
			Almost ready, sir...

	Geordi tinkers with the console for a quick beat and
	then steps back.

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			We can give it a try.

					PICARD
			Open a channel.

	Geordi works his console.

13   THE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	comes on. The image is unrecognizable, almost
	completely obscured by "snow".

14   ON GEORDI

	as he works his panel, attempting to clear the image.

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT TWO     15.

15   INCLUDE THE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	as it gradually clears to show the grainy, staticfilled
	image of the Ferengi commander, DAIMON PRAK
	(NOTE: the visual should be clearly inferior to our
	normal Viewscreen image). He doesn't look happy.

					PICARD
			This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of
			the Enterprise. Please explain
			your attack on my ship.

					PRAK
				(outraged)
			Our attack? We were defending
			ourselves. Do you deny that you
			are responsible for disabling my
			vessel?

	Picard exchanges a glance with Riker -- what is this
	guy talking about?

					PICARD
			Your ship was adrift and your
			communications inoperative. We
			were attempting to ascertain your
			status.

					PRAK
				(doesn't buy it)
			You were attempting to move in for
			the kill.
				(beat)
			Do not toy with me, Picard... we
			are obviously at your mercy. But
			know this: when the Ferengi
			Council learns of your actions,
			they will consider this an act of
			war.

					PICARD
			Daimon, there has clearly been a
			misunderstanding here. I believe
			it would be in everyone's best
			interests if you came aboard and
			we discussed the situation.

					PRAK
			I see no reason to trust you,
			hewman.

	Picard wants to get to the bottom of this -- but he's
	going to have to force Prak to accept his help.

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT TWO     16.

15   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Then I suppose we'll be on our
			way...
				(beat)
			If you wish, I'll relay your
			position to your government... in
			case you're unable to complete
			repairs... and remain stranded
			here.

	Prak wavers -- he really isn't ready to take that
	chance.

					PRAK
			Perhaps it would be better to
			discuss the situation...

	Off Prak's reaction.

                                             CUT TO:

16   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	and the Ferengi ship.

17   INT. READY ROOM

	Picard, Riker, and Prak.

					PRAK
			We detected what appeared to be a
			Federation signal buoy. When we
			approached it, it emitted a
			massive verteron pulse... our warp
			drive, our sensors, our
			communications systems were all
			disabled.
				(beat)
			We assumed we were the victims of
			a new Federation weapon.

					PICARD
			Daimon Prak. The Federation
			established this Corridor to
			ensure a safe route through the
			sector. We have nothing to gain
			from mining it.

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT TWO     17.

17   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Whatever happened to your ship may
			not be an isolated incident. A
			Federation Medical transport was
			recently lost in the Corridor.

					PRAK
			We passed a Federation ship
			several days ago. It did not
			appear to be in any distress.

	Picard and Riker react.

					RIKER
			Can you give us an idea of their
			heading?

	Prak smiles -- finally, he's got a way to be one-up.

					PRAK
			It's possible that information was
			recorded in our sensor logs,
			Commander.
				(beat)
			Unfortunately, my entire crew is
			occupied with our repairs. I
			don't know if there will be time
			to search our records.

	It's obvious what Prak is getting at.

					PICARD
			Perhaps if we assigned an
			engineering team to assist with
			the repair efforts... would that
			give you time to retrieve your
			logs?

	Prak seems quite satisfied with the arrangement.

					PRAK
			I believe it would, Captain.

18   INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

	Spot is sitting on Data's desk as Data stands nearby.

					DATA
			Spot -- down.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT TWO   18.

18   CONTINUED:

	Spot stares at him.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Spot -- down.

	Spot does nothing. Data approaches Spot and as he
	lifts the cat off the desk, he repeats the command.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Spot -- down.

	Data sets the cat on the floor and then points to the
	desk.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			This is up. Up is no.

	Data points to the floor.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			This is down.
				(strokes Spot)
			Down is good.

	The door CHIMES.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Come in.

	The DOORS OPEN and Geordi ENTERS, carrying a PADD. As
	Geordi speaks, Data picks up Spot and places her on the
	desk.

					GEORDI
			Data. I had another idea that
			might help boost our power
			conversion levels. Could you give
			me a hand?

					DATA
			I would be happy to.

	Geordi notices Spot sitting on the console.

					GEORDI
			Don't tell me you're training her
			to use the console.

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT TWO     19.

18   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			As part of her training program,
			I am teaching Spot to jump down
			from the desk on my command.

					GEORDI
			How's it going?

					DATA
			I have not been entirely
			successful...

	Spot MEOWS loudly. In response, Data moves to the
	replicator. Spot jumps off the desk and moves to a
	certain place on the floor and waits. Data speaks to
	the replicator.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Feline supplement two-hundred
			twenty-one.

	We HEAR the replicator activating. Data picks up a
	BOWL OF FOOD and sets it down in front of Spot, who
	begins to eat.

					GEORDI
			That cat has definitely got a mind
			of her own, Data. Maybe she's
			just not trainable.

	Spot MEOWS twice. Data now moves to a shelf and picks
	up a small BALL OF YARN...

					DATA
			I suppose I must accept that
			possibility. It may be that Spot
			lacks the intelligence necessary
			to learn the appropriate responses
			to my commands.

	Data places the yarn in front of Spot who begins to
	play with it. Geordi watches, amused.

					GEORDI
			Maybe.
				(beat)
			But I think your training is
			coming along quite nicely.

	Data seems puzzled and then looks at Spot with a
	thoughtful expression.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT TWO   20.

18   CONTINUED: (3)

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			Come on, Data, let's go.

	Geordi moves for the door. With a final backward
	glance at the cat, Data follows Geordi and they EXIT.

18A  INT. ENGINEERING

	Data and Geordi are working at the pool table.

					GEORDI
			Okay, Data, keep the EPS flow
			constant while I re-modulate the
			power taps.

	Data turns to the work.

					DATA
			This procedure could only boost
			the conversion level by -- point-eight
			percent.

					GEORDI
			That's all right... it might be
			enough.

					DATA
			Enough?

	Geordi picks up a nearby PADD and hands it to Data.

					GEORDI
			Commander Kaplan just sent me this
			on subspace.

	Data reads off the PADD.

					DATA
			"La Forge. I've got Intrepid's
			power conversion level up to
			ninety-seven-point-one percent.
			Maybe you should try cleaning your
			plasma grid once in a while."

					GEORDI
			Can you believe the nerve of this
			guy... ?

					DATA
			We perform maintenance on the
			plasma grid at regular intervals.

					GEORDI
			Of course we do -- he's just
			trying to get me angry.

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT TWO  20A.

18A  CONTINUED:

	Geordi works for another beat before hitting a final
	button on the console.

					GEORDI
			That should do it...
				(to computer)
			Computer, what is the current
			power conversion level?

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Power conversion level is ninety-seven-point-two
			percent.

	A triumphant grin breaks across Geordi's face.

					GEORDI
			Too bad, Mister Kaplan...

	Data reacts to the obvious glee in Geordi's voice, and
	Geordi looks sheepishly back. Off expressions.

                                             CUT TO:

19   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (STOCK OPTICAL)

	at impulse as it approaches a DEBRIS FIELD (as seen in
	"Face of the Enemy").

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's Log, Stardate, 47311.4.
			Based on the Ferengi sensor logs,
			we have traced the Fleming's most
			likely course. It now appears
			that the vessel may have come to
			an unfortunate end.

20   INT. BRIDGE - AFT SCIENCE

	Picard and Data are studying an OKUDAGRAM on the
	monitor which shows a line indicating the course of the
	Fleming through the Corridor; the line passes near a
	debris field.

					PICARD
			What's the origin of this debris
			field?

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/24/93 - ACT TWO  20B.

20   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Unknown, sir. It does not appear
			on any Federation charts of the
			Corridor.

					PICARD
			Could it be what's left of the
			Fleming?

					DATA
			It is a possibility. The debris
			consists primarily of duranium and
			poly-composite fragments which
			suggests it could be from a ship.
			Furthermore, the field contains
			sufficient mass to account for the
			Fleming.

	A grim beat.

     STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT TWO     21.

20   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			All right... let's take a closer
			look. Perhaps we can find
			something to give us a positive
			identification.

	Picard moves back to his command position and joins
	Riker; Data returns to Ops; Worf is at Tactical.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Helm, plot a course through the
			debris field. Ahead slow.

	Data works his console as the Enterprise begins slowly
	moving into the debris field.

					DATA
			Captain, I am picking up a small,
			metallic object, approximately
			three-point-five meters in
			diameter...

					RIKER
			It could be a ship's log
			recorder... or a probe casing.

					DATA
				(off console)
			I do not believe so... it is
			emitting an unusual signal ...
				(urgently)
			Sir, it is beginning to generate
			a verteron field.

	Picard and Riker react.

					PICARD
			Shields up! Full reverse, now!

	But the realization comes too late. Suddenly, an
	INTENSE WHITE LIGHT fills the Bridge for several
	seconds, accompanied by a HIGH-PITCHED SOUND (note:
	there is no ship shake).

	When the effect subsides, the Bridge lights are dimmed
	and many of the consoles are dark.

					PICARD
				(continuing, to Worf)
			Damage report.

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/17/93 - ACT TWO   22.

20   CONTINUED: (2)

					WORF
			Warp engines are off-line...
			shields are down... all subspace
			systems are inoperative...

					RIKER
			Just like the Ferengi ship.

					DATA
			Captain, there is an unidentified
			vessel heading toward us... two
			life forms aboard...

					PICARD
			On screen.

21   THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	A small alien ship stands facing the Enterprise.

22   INT. BRIDGE

					DATA
				(off console)
			They are initiating their
			Transporter systems...

					PICARD
				(to Worf)
			Can you get any power to the
			shields?

	Worf works his console in frustration.

					WORF
			No sir.

					RIKER
				(to com)
			All decks... security alert!

	The ship goes to RED ALERT.

					DATA
			We are being boarded...

	A tense beat... where are they going to materialize?

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			La Forge to Bridge... we've got
			intruders in Main Engineering...

   STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT TWO   23.

23   INT. ENGINEERING - ON GEORDI

	Geordi is in his office, staring through the glass at
	the now-inactive warp core.

					GEORDI
				(continuing, to com)
			We need a security team down
			here...

					WORF'S COM VOICE
			It's on the way...

	As Geordi moves out of his office...

24   WIDEN TO INCLUDE THE WARP CORE

	TWO HUMANOID ALIENS, a male, RABAL, and a female,
	SEROVA, are standing in front of the inactive core.

					GEORDI
			What do you want?

					RABAL
			We're trying to make you listen...

					SEROVA
			You are killing us.

	TWO N.D. SECURITY GUARDS ENTER with PHASERS drawn. Off
	Geordi's stunned reaction.

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT THREE  24.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

25   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Picard, Riker, Data, and Geordi are at the table with
	Rabal and Serova. The two N.D. Security Guards stand
	nearby, phasers holstered, closely flanking the aliens.

					PICARD
				(hard, to Rabal)
			You've made a very serious
			accusation. I want you to explain
			it.

	Rabal is a mature, reasonable man but he's extremely
	passionate and determined.

					RABAL
			Captain, according to our
			research, warp fields are causing
			a dangerous reaction in this
			region of space.

	Serova is younger than Rabal, and she seems more
	determined and less inclined to listen to reason.

					SEROVA
			Our planet is already being
			affected. We have measured large
			gravitational shifts throughout
			our system.

					RABAL
			If something isn't done, our
			planet will become uninhabitable.

	There's a beat as Picard considers the implications of
	what they're saying. If they are right, then the
	situation demands study. Geordi, however, is openly
	skeptical of their claims.

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT THREE  25.

25   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Captain, I've heard this theory
			before. Their research was
			evaluated by the Federation
			Science Council a few years ago.
			Their claims just didn't hold up.

	Serova bristles.

					SEROVA
			That research was only
			preliminary. Our original
			analysis was incomplete...

	Picard understands their position, but he doesn't care
	for their methods.

					PICARD
			Doctor, if you wanted us to review
			your research, you could have
			placed a request through the
			Science Council.

					RABAL
			Their resources are limited. It
			would have taken over a year
			before they dispatched a science
			ship to come and evaluate our
			work.

					SEROVA
			We were not willing to wait any
			longer.
				(beat)
			We knew that if we disabled enough
			ships, Starfleet would come. Then
			at least we would be able to
			present our case...

    STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT THREE    26.

25   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			That's how you rationalize these
			attacks?

					SEROVA
			Neither you nor the Ferengi
			suffered any casualties,
			Commander. The actual damage to
			your vessels was negligible.

					RABAL
			We dispersed verteron probes in
			the Corridor only to disable warpdriven
			ships... nothing more.

					RIKER
			You can call it whatever you like.
			The fact remains that you
			deliberately disguised your
			probes. You made them look like
			signal markers... You hid them in
			debris fields... You mined the
			Corridor.

	There's an uncomfortable silence. Both Rabal and
	Serova realize they've taken some pretty extreme
	measures, but they're not going to apologize for it.

	A beat as Picard considers his options.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Mister La Forge, how long do you
			estimate it will take to restore
			the engines?

					GEORDI
			Their verteron pulse overloaded
			our field coils, sir... it'll take
			at least thirty-six hours to get
			underway.

	Picard turns to Rabal and Serova.

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT THREE  27.

25   CONTINUED: (3)

					SEROVA
			I know precisely how our pulse
			affected your field coils. With
			my help, your ship could be
			operational in ten hours...
				(beat)
			Provided you agree to review our
			research.

	Picard fixes Serova with a hard stare; he is not going
	to be forced into this.

					PICARD
			Because of the seriousness of your
			claims, I'm willing to listen to
			your case. But make no mistake.
			Our priority here is the recovery
			of the Fleming.
				(beat)
			I expect you to help us restore
			our systems and deactivate all
			your remaining probes in the
			Corridor...
				(beat)
			If you do not, I will put you both
			in the brig and take you to the
			nearest Starbase where you'll face
			charges for what you've done.

	Serova is unrepentant and she's not backing down;
	Rabal, however, is willing to compromise.

					RABAL
			My sister and I have no wish to
			impede your rescue efforts --

					SEROVA
			Rabal, don't. The probes are the
			only leverage we have. If we --

					RABAL
				(silences her)
			Serova.
				(to Picard)
			We will do as you ask, Captain,
			but please... re-examine our data.

    STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT THREE    28.

25   CONTINUED: (4)

					PICARD
			We will, Doctor. Part of our job
			is to maintain an open mind...
			even under these circumstances.
				(beat)
			Mister La Forge, take them to
			Engineering and get the core back
			on-line.

	Geordi isn't happy at the prospect of working with
	these people, but there isn't much of a choice.

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir.

					PICARD
			Mister Data, begin a review of
			their research. I'd like your
			report as soon as possible.

	Data nods, then Data, Geordi, Rabal, and Serova EXIT,
	followed by Worf and the Security Guards. Off Riker
	and Picard's expressions.

                                             CUT TO:

26   INT. ENGINEERING

	Geordi, Rabal, and Serova are working in and around the
	area of the warp core. All three have PADDS. The warp
	core is still dark. Serova works a console and the
	warp core begins to PULSE SLOWLY. She checks a panel.

					SEROVA
			There... shields have been
			restored. You'll be able to reengage
			your engines in...
			approximately eight hours.

	Geordi checks the panel himself.

					GEORDI
				(irritated)
			You know, even after we get the
			engines on-line, it's going to
			take a week to recalibrate them
			properly...

					SEROVA
			I'm sorry you've been
			inconvenienced.
					(MORE)

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT THREE  29.

26   CONTINUED:

					SEROVA (Cont'd)
			But that's all it is -- an
			inconvenience. Our concerns are
			far more important than the
			condition of your engines.

					GEORDI
			What if the Fleming had been
			transporting perishable
			supplies... or was on an emergency
			mission? Your little plan might
			have cost a lot of lives.

					SEROVA
			That didn't happen, Commander.
			And saving lives is precisely what
			we're trying to do.

					GEORDI
			Well, you have an interesting way
			of going about it.

	Serova regards him intently, frustrated by his seeming
	intransigence.

					SEROVA
			There's no point talking to you.
			You've already decided not to
			listen.

	She EXITS, leaving Rabal and a frustrated Geordi.

					RABAL
			Commander... I know my sister can
			be somewhat -- aggravating...

					GEORDI
			I'd have to agree with that...

					RABAL
			But please try to understand...
			she believes profoundly in this
			cause. She has sworn to dedicate
			her life to exposing the dangers
			of warp drive.

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT THREE  30.

26   CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
			Warp drive has been around for
			three centuries. It's a proven
			technology...

					RABAL
			You sound like I did... about four
			years ago...

					GEORDI
			You mean you didn't believe her,
			either?

					RABAL
			No. What I didn't realize... was
			how brilliant my sister is. It
			took two years of study for me
			even to grasp the principles
			behind her theoretical models...
			they're that sophisticated.

					GEORDI
			Well, our Commander Data is no
			slouch. If there's anything
			there, he'll find it.

					RABAL
			I hope so.
				(beat)
			Because once we persuade Starfleet
			to stop warp travel through the
			Corridor... we will have to
			convince our own people to give up
			warp drive completely.

	It's an unexpected notion.

    STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT THREE    31.

26   CONTINUED: (3)

					GEORDI
			Hekaras Two is the only inhabited
			world in this region. Without
			warp drive, you'd be completely
			isolated from the rest of the
			Federation. Are you really
			willing to take that step?

					RABAL
			Yes. And if you were in my
			position, I hope you'd be willing
			to do the same.

	Rabal EXITS. Off Geordi's expression.

                                             CUT TO:

27   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	and the alien ship.

28   INT. STELLAR CARTOGRAPHY LAB

	Data is giving his report to Picard as Rabal and Serova
	listen anxiously. Data is standing in front of a
	monitor which displays a SUBSPACE FIELD MAP of the
	Corridor (NOTE: this OKUDAGRAM should be based on the
	map seen in Act 1); several pocket-like regions inside
	the Corridor are highlighted.

					DATA
			According to Serova and Rabal's
			theory, there are regions of
			potential subspace instability
			within the Corridor...

	Data indicates the pockets on the map.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			They believe that if these regions
			continue to be exposed to warp
			field energy, they will rupture --
			subspace will extrude into normal
			space, forming a rift.

	Picard studies the graphic.

    STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT THREE    32.

28   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			I see. It's like pacing up and
			down on a carpet... eventually,
			you wear a hole in it.

					DATA
			The analogy is essentially
			correct.

					PICARD
			Can their theory be proven?

					DATA
			At this time, there is
			insufficient evidence to do so...

	Rabal is visibly disappointed by Data's pronouncement;
	Serova's expression is unreadable.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			In order to determine whether or
			not a rift would form, we would
			have to expose a region of the
			Corridor to warp field energy
			approximately one-million times
			greater than that normally
			generated by a starship.

					RABAL
			Commander, we believe the warp
			field effect is cumulative. Each
			starship that passes through the
			Corridor at warp brings us one
			step closer to forming a rift.

    STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT THREE    33.

28   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			I agree that is a possibility.
				(to Picard)
			Captain, I suggest we ask the
			Federation Science Council to send
			a research vessel to this area.
			A more detailed investigation
			would resolve many of our
			questions.

	That's not enough to satisfy Serova.

					SEROVA
			That's your response? More
			research? More delays? I suppose
			I shouldn't have expected anything
			different.

	Before he can respond, Picard is interrupted by the
	COM.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Bridge to Captain Picard.

					PICARD
				(taps combadge)
			Go ahead.

                                             INTERCUT:

29   INT. BRIDGE

					RIKER
			Sir, we've located the Fleming on
			long-range sensors, approximately
			zero-point-three light years away.

					PICARD
			What's their condition?

					RIKER
			The vessel appears to be intact.
			They have shields, but it looks
			like their subspace systems are
			out.

					PICARD
			All right. We'll get underway as
			soon as the engines are back on-line.

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT THREE  34.

29   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Aye, sir.

                                             END INTERCUT.

	Picard returns his attention to Data, Rabal, and
	Serova.

					PICARD
			I'd like you all to put together
			a research proposal for the
			Science Council. I'll give it my
			full recommendation.

					DATA
			Yes, sir.

	Unlike Serova, Rabal is trying to stay upbeat and
	hopeful.

					RABAL
			Captain, I appreciate the
			opportunity you're giving us.
			It's a beginning that we --

					SEROVA
			Not "we". You can do whatever you
			want, Rabal. I'll have no part of
			this. It's just another delay.

	Serova abruptly EXITS. Reactions.

                                             CUT TO:

30   INT. BRIDGE

	Picard and Riker at command; Worf at Tactical; Data at
	Ops; Rabal is working at one of the aft stations. The
	aft Turbolift DOORS OPEN and Geordi ENTERS.

					GEORDI
				(to Picard)
			The engines are back on-line, sir.
			All systems are ready.

					PICARD
			Very good.

	Geordi nods and moves to the Aft Science station.

 STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT THREE 34A.

30   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(to conn)
			Helm, lay in a course for the
			Fleming.

					VOICE (O.C.)
			Aye, sir.

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			It looks like they're in pretty
			good condition. According to our
			sensors, they've got their shields
			back up to full strength.

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT THREE  35.

30   CONTINUED: (2)

					WORF
				(interrupts, off
				 console)
			Captain, the Hekaran ship is
			moving off....

31   EXT. SPACE - THE ALIEN SHIP (OPTICAL)

	powers up and heads away from the Enterprise.

32   INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

					WORF
			There is one life form on board.
			It is Serova.

	Puzzled reactions. Picard turns to Rabal.

					PICARD
			What's going on, Doctor?

	Rabal is honestly baffled.

					RABAL
			I don't know...
				(beat)
			May I speak to her, Captain?

					PICARD
				(nods)
			Mister Worf, open a channel.

	Worf works his console and the IMAGE OF SEROVA APPEARS
	on the Viewscreen.

					RABAL
			Serova, what are you trying to do?

	Serova's expression is grim.

					SEROVA
			They wanted proof. I'm going to
			give it to them.
				(beat; sadly)
			I'm sorry...

	Serova terminates communications. Rabal is still
	puzzled.

					DATA
				(off console)
			Captain, the Hekaran ship's
			engines are beginning to
			overload...
					(MORE)

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT THREE  36.

32   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA (Cont'd)
				(beat)
			I believe Serova is attempting to
			create a warp core breach...

	Shocked reactions. Suddenly, Rabal understands what's
	Serova's trying to do.

					RABAL
			No...

33   ON THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	The alien ship is seen only as a point receding rapidly
	deep into space. Suddenly, we see the FLASH from an
	EXPLOSION. A SHOCK WAVE radiates outward from the
	flashpoint, leaving a STRANGE GLOW in its wake...

34   INT. BRIDGE

	The SHIP SHAKES, buffeted by the shock wave. RED ALERT
	lights are flashing...

					RIKER
			Shields at maximum... Full
			reverse...

	A few dicey moments later the SHAKING SUBSIDES.

					PICARD
			Report!

					DATA
				(off console)
			We have cleared the shock wave,
			sir... but tetryon flux in the
			area is increasing rapidly...

35   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	is dwarfed by a GLOWING RIFT IN SPACE -- it's like a
	ragged tear in a black curtain with a bright light
	shining through it. It's enormous... terrifying...

36   INT. BRIDGE

	Off the crew's shocked reactions.

                                             FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR  37.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

37   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	outside the rift.

38   INT. BRIDGE

	Moments later. Everyone is staring into the Viewscreen
	at the terrifying sight.

					RIKER
			It's incredible...

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			Mister Data, what's your analysis?

					DATA
				(off console)
			The effect is approximately zero-point-one
			light years in diameter,
			and is emitting extremely high
			levels of tetryon radiation...
				(beat)
			It appears to be what Rabal and
			Serova predicted, sir -- a
			subspace rift.

	Grim reactions all around the Bridge.

					GEORDI
			She was right...

	Rabal stares at the Viewscreen. He can barely believe
	what his sister has done, and he's stunned by her
	death.

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			Can you get a fix on the Fleming?
			Is it still in one piece?

					DATA
				(works console)
			Scanning...
				(beat)
			The Fleming is near its previous
			coordinates... it appears to be
			intact.... but it is now within
			the rift.

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR  38.

38   CONTINUED: (2)

	Picard turns to Rabal.

					PICARD
			Doctor, is it possible for a ship
			to survive in there?

	Rabal doesn't respond, his eyes remaining fixed on the
	Viewscreen.

					PICARD
			Doctor...

	Picard moves to him.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			I'm sorry about your loss... but
			we need your help now.

	Rabal tries to focus.

					RABAL
			Of course, Captain...

					PICARD
			Does the rift pose any danger to
			the Fleming?

					RABAL
			I... I don't know...

	Suddenly, the SHIP SHAKES strongly, then stops. Picard
	and Riker exchange a concerned glance.

					RIKER
			What was that?

	Geordi studies the Aft Science console.

					GEORDI
			Some kind of high energy
			distortion wave... it looks like
			they're being generated from
			within the rift.

					DATA
			As long as we maintain our current
			position, our shields should
			provide sufficient protection.

					PICARD
			What about the Fleming? How long
			can they survive in there?

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR  38A.

38   CONTINUED: (3)

					DATA
			The waves are even more intense
			within the rift. I estimate their
			shields will fail within twelve
			hours.

	A beat.

					RIKER
			Can we risk going in there to get
			them out?

  STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR  39.

38   CONTINUED: (4)

					GEORDI
			Not at warp, sir.
				(off console)
			According to these readings, the
			rift is in a state of accelerating
			instability -- which would make it
			extremely sensitive to warp field
			energy. If we go in at warp, we
			might make it expand even further.

					RIKER
			I don't think we have a choice.
			It would take weeks to reach them
			at impulse.

					PICARD
			Then I want some better options.
				(beat)
			Data, Geordi... take Doctor Rabal
			and begin an analysis of the rift.
			We need a way to get the Fleming
			out of there.

	Data and Geordi acknowledge. Rabal follows them into
	the Turbolift and the three men EXIT. Off Picard's
	expression.

                                             CUT TO:

39   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (STOCK OPTICAL)

	stopped in space.

					DATA (V.O.)
			Science Officer's log, Stardate
			47312.1. Our new sensor readings
			have greatly improved our
			understanding of the rift.
			However, we have been unable to
			find any way to counteract it.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR      40.

40   INT. STELLAR CARTOGRAPHY LAB

	Data and Geordi are working at a console. Rabal sits
	off to one side, lost in thought. They've all been
	working for a while.

41   THE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	displays an IMAGE OF THE RIFT and associated
	information.

42   RESUME SCENE

					GEORDI
				(frustrated)
			Everything here supports Serova's
			theories... I don't see any way to
			close the rift or even reduce its
			size.

	The SHIP SHAKES from another distortion wave. Geordi
	and Data exchange a look -- they're running out of
	time.

	Data studies the console for a beat and then turns to
	Rabal.

					DATA
			Doctor, is it possible there are
			areas inside the rift which are
			stable... where we could safely
			use our warp engines?

	Rabal still seems a little shell-shocked. He moves to
	the console and studies the monitor.

					RABAL
			Perhaps...
				(to computer)
			Computer, scan the rift for
			regions of low instability...

43   ANGLE ON THE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	displays a CONTOUR-LIKE MAP superimposed over the
	previous graphic. A few areas are highlighted.

					RABAL
			There's no area stable enough to
			withstand a warp pulse...

	Geordi's attention stays fixed on the monitor -- he's
	noticed something unusual.

         STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT FOUR         41.

43   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			There's something strange here...
				(beat)
			Computer. Display grid delta-seventeen...
			enhance and magnify.

	The display changes again, ZOOMING IN on a corner of
	the screen which lies outside the rift. A small,
	contour map-like region can now be seen.

44   RESUME SCENE

					GEORDI
			What do you make of that?

					RABAL
			It's a subspace instability --
			outside the rift.

	It's a mysterious beat. They all stare at the monitor,
	puzzled.

					DATA
			That should not be possible.

	Rabal begins working at his controls.

					RABAL
				(concerned)
			Commander, I'm going to begin a
			field-enhanced scan of this
			sector. I'd like to take a closer
			look at this.

					GEORDI
			In the meantime, we'll have to
			tell the Captain that we don't
			know how to get to the Fleming.

					DATA
			I am not certain that is true.
				(off their reactions)
			I may have an idea.

	Off their reactions...

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT FOUR      42.

45   INT. READY ROOM

	Picard, Riker, and Data.

					DATA
			I suggest we coast into the rift.

					RIKER
			Coast?

					DATA
			We can initiate a brief, high-intensity
			warp pulse from our
			current position. We should be
			able to attain sufficient velocity
			to enter the rift, beam the crew
			off the Fleming and exit --
			without using our warp engines.

	It's a risky plan.

	The SHIP SHAKES again from a distortion wave. The men
	react.

					RIKER
			All right. Let's say we initiate
			a full power warp pulse... how
			much time will we have before we
			drop out of warp?

					DATA
			If we field-saturate the nacelles,
			we should be able to sustain warp
			speed for approximately two
			minutes.

					RIKER
			That's not much time... and it
			could get pretty rough in there.

	Data nods, agreeing.

					DATA
			Our timing will be critical.

	Picard makes his decision.

					PICARD
			Mister Data, begin your
			calculations. We'll go in as soon
			as you're ready.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FOUR      43.

45   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Aye, sir.

	Data EXITS. Off Picard's and Riker's troubled
	expressions.

                                             CUT TO:

45AA	INT. ENGINEERING

	Data and Geordi are working at the pool table.

					DATA
			I believe the maximum saturation
			level should be eighteen-point-three
			percent.

					GEORDI
				(works console)
			All right...
				(off console)
			With these parameters, we should
			be able to maintain warp speed
			for... two minutes and eight
			seconds.
				(beat)
			I don't think we can get any more
			than that.

					DATA
			I agree. But based on the size of
			the rift, it should give us
			sufficient time to complete our
			rescue.
				(to computer)
			Computer. Begin nacelle field
			saturation.

	The computer BEEPS. Geordi moves away from the pool
	table, clearly troubled.

					GEORDI
			How did we miss it?

					DATA
			What do you mean?

					GEORDI
			How did we miss the connection --
			between warp drive and the
			formation of the rift?

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FOUR     43A.

45AA	CONTINUED:

	Geordi moves to the warp core, looking at it
	thoughtfully.

					GEORDI
			Between the two of us we've logged
			thousands of hours on these
			engines. We're supposed to be
			warp field experts. But this time
			we certainly were wrong.

					DATA
			Technically, Geordi, we were not
			wrong. Serova's theories rested
			on assumptions which were
			unprovable.

					GEORDI
			Seems to me she managed to prove
			them pretty conclusively...

					DATA
			But only by using methods which a
			reputable scientist would never
			employ.

					GEORDI
			Yeah... she was willing to die to
			make her point.
				(beat)
			We should have listened to her
			more closely.

					DATA
			We reviewed Serova's research to
			the best of our ability, and we
			were prepared to continue studying
			the problem. But that was not
			satisfactory.

	Geordi is trying to understand his own feelings here
	and the realizations are not coming easily.

					GEORDI
			I can remember times when I've
			been a little stubborn... trying
			to get people to believe me when
			I didn't have enough proof...

					DATA
			I do not believe that you would
			have resorted to such extremes.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FOUR     43B.

45AA	CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
			But she had to... to make us
			listen. Why? Why was I so
			resistant?

					DATA
			Perhaps because the aggressive
			methods she chose created an
			adversarial situation.

	This exchange is helping Geordi hone his self-examination.
	He begins to narrow the field...

					GEORDI
			Or maybe I was taking the whole
			thing personally.

					DATA
			I do not understand...

	Geordi ponders, trying to understand it himself.

					GEORDI
			Maybe it was all a little
			threatening to me... the thought
			that warp engines might be doing
			some kind of damage.

	He circles around the warp engine, assessing it.

					GEORDI
			I've always looked at this warp
			core as something... beautiful...
				(beat)
			It never occurred to me that it
			might be -- destructive.

	A thoughtful beat. Data returns to the pool table.

					GEORDI
				(checks console)
			It's going to take another half
			hour for the nacelles to saturate.
			Would you call me when they're
			ready?
				(beat)
			There's someone I should talk to.

	He EXITS.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FOUR     43C.

45A  INT. TEN FORWARD - ANGLE ON DOOR

	Geordi ENTERS. It's after hours and the place is
	relatively deserted. Geordi looks around the room for
	a moment until he finds who he's looking for.

46   ON RABAL (OPTICAL)

	He's standing alone at the windows, staring out at the
	glowing rift.

47   RESUME SCENE

	Geordi stands quietly behind him until Rabal turns,
	noticing him. Rabal is subdued, his voice quiet.

					RABAL
			Commander.

					GEORDI
			May I join you?

	Rabal nods, and Geordi moves beside him. There is a
	small silence.

					GEORDI
			I wanted to say... I'm sorry about
			your sister.

	Rabal glances at him.

					RABAL
			Thank you.
				(beat)
			I'm trying to tell myself that she
			died for what she believed in...
			but somehow that's not much
			comfort.


       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR      44.

47   CONTINUED:

	A quiet beat. In a way, Geordi feels responsible for
	what's happened.

					GEORDI
			I wish things could've happened
			differently. I should have taken
			a closer look at your research...
			it's possible there was something
			I missed...

					RABAL
			No. You didn't miss anything.
			The problem was time. It would've
			taken time to do the proper
			research... and Serova wasn't
			willing to wait.

	Geordi is silent for a beat... then...

					GEORDI
			I guess the question now is...
			where do we go from here?

					RABAL
			I don't think we can look at space
			travel the same way anymore...
			we're going to have to change.

	Geordi absorbs this. The whole thing has huge
	implications for him.

					GEORDI
			I've been in Starfleet for a long
			time. We depend on warp drive...
				(beat)
			I don't know how easy it'll be to
			change.

					RABAL
			It won't be easy at all.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR      45.

47   CONTINUED: (2)

	Geordi stares at him, the full weight of the situation
	riding heavily on his shoulders.

48   OMITTED

49   INT. BRIDGE

	Picard, Riker, Data, and Worf are at their stations.

					DATA
				(works console)
			Captain, warp pulse calculations
			are complete. We will be firing
			the engines at maximum intensity
			for six-point-three seconds before
			disengaging.

					WORF
			Damage control parties are
			standing-by on all decks.

					RIKER
			Our course to the Fleming is
			plotted and laid in, sir.

	Picard acknowledges.

					PICARD
				(to com)
			Mister La Forge... whenever you're
			ready...

50   INT. ENGINEERING

	Geordi is near the warp core.

					GEORDI
			Aye-aye, sir.
				(works panel)
			Initiating warp pulse... now.

51   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship goes into warp.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR      46.

52   INT. BRIDGE

	We hear the SOUND of the warp engines building in
	intensity... The acceleration is tremendous...
	Suddenly, the engine SOUND STOPS completely...

					DATA
			Engines disengaged...
				(beat)
			We are entering the rift...

	Immediately, the ship begins SHAKING strongly... it's
	a tense situation.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Hull stress is increasing...
			eighteen percent of maximum
			tolerance and rising...

					PICARD
			How long until we reach the
			Fleming?

					WORF
				(off console)
			One minute, twenty-two seconds...

					RIKER
			All transporter rooms are standing
			by.

					WORF
				(concerned, off console)
			Captain, I am picking up power
			emissions from the Fleming... they
			may be attempting to initiate
			their warp drive.

	A shocked beat as they realize the danger.

					RIKER
			They must have been able to repair
			their engines...

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FOUR      47.

52   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Captain, if they activate their
			engines --

					PICARD
			I know, Data.
				(to Worf)
			Can we establish communications?

					WORF
			No, sir... subspace interference
			is too high...

					PICARD
			How long until we reach
			transporter range?

					WORF
			Fifty-three seconds...

					RIKER
				(grim)
			I don't think we're going to make
			it...

					WORF
				(continuing)
			Sir, they are activating their
			warp drive...

	A HUGE BLAST rocks the ship... The LIGHTS DIM and
	ALARMS SOUND...

					PICARD
			Report!

					WORF
			Damage on decks six and
			fourteen... our structural
			integrity field is holding.

					RIKER
			What about the Fleming?

					DATA
				(off console)
			They are badly damaged, sir...
			their life support systems are
			failing.

					RIKER
				(to com)
			All transporter rooms, prepare for
			emergency evacuation procedures...

         STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - 09/17/93 - ACT FOUR         48.

52   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
				(interrupting, off
				 console)
			Captain, when the Fleming
			activated its warp drive, the rift
			expanded by two-point-three
			percent...
				(beat)
			We no longer have sufficient
			momentum to escape.

	The SHIP ROCKS from a huge distortion wave -- the
	largest yet. Off reactions.

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FIVE      49.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

53   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	engulfed by the rift.

54   INT. BRIDGE

	The crew is recovering from the impact of the last
	distortion wave.

					DATA
			Captain, distortion wave intensity
			has increased by a factor of ten.

					WORF
			We are within transporter range of
			the Fleming, sir. Commencing
			evacuation procedures...

	The SHIP SHAKES again.

					DATA
			Distortion waves are now occurring
			every fifty-nine seconds... Hull
			stress is nearing maximum
			tolerance...

	Picard and Riker react... they need some options --
	fast.

					RIKER
			Data, what if we forced an EPS
			discharge through the impulse
			reactor... would that be enough
			to blast us out of here?

					DATA
			I do not believe so, sir... and
			the resulting explosion would most
			likely destroy the saucer section
			in the process...

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			Captain...

                                             INTERCUT:

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FIVE     49A.

55   INT. ENGINEERING

	Geordi has been monitoring the Bridge and he works
	quickly as he talks.

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			We might be able to get out of
			here without using the warp
			engines.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FIVE      50.

55   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			How, Geordi?

	Geordi continues working at his consoles as he speaks.

					GEORDI
			When's the last time you went
			surfing, Commander?

	Riker and Picard react, unsure where Geordi's going
	with this.

					RIKER
			A couple of months ago, on Risa...
			I nearly killed myself on the
			break at Kattala beach.

					GEORDI
			Feel like catching another wave?

					PICARD
				(catching on)
			A distortion wave...

					GEORDI
			Exactly, sir. If can phase-match
			our deflector shield to the EM
			variants of the distortion wave,
			when the next one hits, we'll be
			pulled along with it...

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			We could ride it out of the rift
			and break away once we're clear.
				(beat)
			Assuming we survive the ride.

	Picard considers this risky plan.

					PICARD
				(to Worf)
			Is everyone off the Fleming?

					WORF
			The last of the crew has been
			beamed aboard, sir.

					PICARD
			All right, Mister La Forge. Get
			us out of here.

	Geordi works frantically.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FIVE     50A.

55   CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir... I'm phase matching the
			deflector shield now...

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT FIVE      51.

55   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
				(off console)
			The next distortion wave will
			impact in fourteen seconds...

					GEORDI
			Matching phases...
				(beat)
			Prepare to engage shield emitters
			on my mark...

					DATA
			Ten seconds...

					GEORDI
			Ready...

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			Engage shield emitters... full
			power...

					DATA
			Distortion wave impact... now.

	The SHIP LURCHES forward for a beat and then LURCHES
	BACK. Reactions from the bridge -- it didn't work.

					DATA
				(off console)
			We were unable to maintain contact
			with the distortion wave, sir...
			we are still within the rift.

					PICARD
				(to com)
			What went wrong, Mister La Forge?

					GEORDI
				(checks a panel)
			The speed differential between us
			and the wave was too high, sir...
			the shock of the impact threw us
			off.

					DATA
			Another distortion wave is
			approaching... impact in twenty-six
			seconds.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT FIVE     51A.

55   CONTINUED: (3)

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			Our hull stress is already
			critical... we can't handle many
			more jolts like that one...

					DATA
			Captain, I suggest we take the
			ship to full impulse. If we can
			attain sufficient speed, it will
			lessen the shock when the wave
			hits.

	Picard nods grimly -- it's their only chance.

					PICARD
			Helm, full impulse. Head us out
			of the rift.
				(beat; to com))
			Shield emitters, stand-by.

					GEORDI
			We're ready, sir.

					DATA
			Distortion wave impact in five
			seconds...

					PICARD
			Engage emitters... now.

56   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	A DISTORTION WAVE comes rippling through the rift,
	catching the Enterprise and pulling it along...

57   INT. BRIDGE

	The ship LURCHES forward and begins to SHAKE as it
	accelerates.

					DATA
			We are in the distortion wave...
			hull stresses exceeding
			tolerance...

					WORF
			Structural integrity fields
			failing on decks ten through
			sixteen..

	The ship ROCKS violently to one side.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FIVE     51B.

57   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			We are within the distortion
			wave... hull stresses exceeding
			tolerance...

					WORF
			Structural integrity fields
			failing on decks ten through
			sixteen... switching to
			backups...

	The ship ROCKS violently to one side.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/22/93 - ACT FIVE      52.

58   INT. ENGINEERING

					GEORDI
				(to com)
			Captain, we're separating from the
			distortion wave... I'm attempting
			to compensate...

59   INT. BRIDGE

	The SHAKING grows worse.

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			How much longer until we clear the
			rift?

					DATA
			Approximately twelve seconds...
				(beat)
			Hull stress is now one-hundred
			twenty percent above maximum...

					WORF
			Structural breach is imminent...

60   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	breaks away from the distortion wave, and the ship is
	thrown clear of the rift.

61   INT. BRIDGE

	The SHAKING subsides rapidly as systems return to
	normal.

					DATA
			We have cleared the rift. Hull
			stresses have returned to normal.

	Reactions of relief from the crew.

					PICARD
			Cancel red alert.

62   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	at impulse.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FIVE     52A.

62   CONTINUED:

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's Log, Stardate 47314.5.
			We have been continuing our
			research, while the Federation
			Council studies our reports on the
			subspace rift.
					(MORE)

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FIVE      53.

62   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD (Cont'd)
			It now appears certain that what
			we've seen here will have
			repercussions for many years to
			come.

63   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Picard, Riker, Data, Troi, Beverly, Geordi, and Worf
	are seated; Rabal and Geordi are standing at the large
	monitor, giving their report. The mood is somber.

					GEORDI
			Our scans have shown a lot of
			subspace instabilities all through
			the sector. If they're exposed to
			enough warp energy, they might
			eventually create other rifts.

					RABAL
			Based on current warp drive
			patterns in the sector, we've
			projected where subspace rifts
			will be most likely to form in the
			next forty years.
				(beat)
			This is the way things are now...

	Rabal activates the monitor.

64   THE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	displays a view of the sector highlighting the subspace
	instabilities (as seen in Act 4).

65   RESUME SCENE

					RABAL
			This is how they'll look in ten
			years...

	Rabal touches the monitor control panel.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FIVE      54.

66   CONTINUED:

	At the end, the rifts cover large areas of the sector.
	It's a shocking and chilling image.

67   RESUME SCENE

					PICARD
				(to Geordi and Rabal)
			Thank you, gentlemen.

	Geordi and Rabal acknowledge and take their seats.

					PICARD
				(to group)
			We've received new directives from
			the Federation Council on this
			matter...

	Picard picks up a PADD in front of him.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Until we can find a way to
			counteract the warp field effect,
			the Council feels our best course
			is to slow the damage as much as
			possible...
				(beat)
			Therefore, areas of space found
			susceptible to warp fields will be
			restricted to essential travel
			only...
				(beat)
			And effective immediately, all
			Federation vessels will be limited
			to a speed of warp five, except in
			cases of extreme emergency.

	A beat.

					WORF
			Sir, the Klingons will observe
			these restrictions, but the
			Romulans will not.

					TROI
			And what about the Ferengi... and
			the Cardassians for that matter?

					PICARD
			The Federation is sharing our data
			with all known warp-capable
			species.
					(MORE)

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FIVE     54A.

67   CONTINUED:

					PICARD (Cont'd)
			All we can hope is that they
			realize it's in their best
			interests to take similar action.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/21/93 - ACT FIVE      55.

67   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
			Putting limits on warp speed is
			only going to prevent other rifts
			from forming. What are we going
			to do about this one?

					GEORDI
			Unfortunately, right now there's
			not much we can do.

					RABAL
			My planet is not in immediate
			danger, but the gravitational
			shifts are already beginning to
			affect its orbit. Our climate is
			changing.

					PICARD
			Starfleet is setting up a weather
			control network for Hekaras Two.
			It's only a temporary solution,
			but it should suffice for now.

					RIKER
			We were lucky the rift formed as
			far away from the planet as it
			did. At least we have a little
			time to consider our options.

	A beat as the scale of the problem sinks in.

					PICARD
			If there are no further questions,
			you're dismissed.

	As the group files out of the room, Picard rises and
	moves to the window and looks out into space. Geordi
	notices this and lingers behind. He moves to Picard.

					GEORDI
			We should have the thermal
			stabilizers ready for the Hekarans
			in another day, sir.

					PICARD
			Very well.

	There's a long beat before Picard continues.

       STAR TREK: "Force of Nature" - REV. 09/20/93 - ACT FIVE      56.

67   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD (Cont'd)
				(beat)
			But now I can't help but wonder if
			all the while I was really helping
			to destroy the very thing I hold
			dear.

	Geordi's reply is firm and confident.

					GEORDI
			It's not going to turn out that
			way, sir. We still have time to
			make it better.

	There's a silent moment between them. Off their
	reactions.

68   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it leaves at impulse.

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END