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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Preemptive Strike"
(fka "The Good Fight")
#40277-276
Story by
Naren Shankar
Teleplay by
Rene Echevarria
Directed by
Patrick Stewart
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 1994 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 This script is not for publication or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
MARCH 1, 1994
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - 03/01/94 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Preemptive Strike"
CAST
PICARD ENSIGN RO
RIKER KALITA
DATA MACIAS
BEVERLY NECHAYEV
TROI GUL EVEK
WORF SANTOS
GEORDI
COMPUTER VOICE
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES N.D SETTLERS
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - 03/01/94 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Preemptive Strike"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
BRIDGE
TEN FORWARD MAQUIS SETTLEMENT
SICKBAY
READY ROOM
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
RO'S QUARTERS
ALIEN BAR
MAQUIS SETTLEMENT
MEETING ROOM
RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
SANTOS' MAQUIS SHIP
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike... " - 03/01/94 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Preemptive Strike"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
FORAIGA four-AYE-guh
JUHRYAN juh-RYE-uhn
BULARIAN bull-AIR-ee-un
RONARA ruh-NAH-ruh
JAROS JAW-rohs
HASPERAT HAS-per-uht
TOPIN TOE-pin
HUGORA hugh-GO-ruh
BELAKLAVION bell-uh-KLAV-ee-on
KLAVION KLAV-ee-on
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: The Next Generation
"Preemptive Strike"
TEASER
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it travels at impulse.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, Stardate 47941.7.
The Enterprise is en route to a
briefing on the situation in the
Demilitarized Zone along the
Cardassian border. Meanwhile, we
are celebrating the return of an
old friend.
2 INT. TEN FORWARD
where a reception is in progress for RO LAREN --
there's a buffet table, drinks, and some quiet music in
the background.
Everyone's excited about seeing Ro, and when she
ENTERS, she is approached by TROI, BEVERLY and GEORDI.
She's not entirely comfortable about the fuss that's
being made over her.
BEVERLY
Welcome home.
RO
Thanks. It's good to be back.
Troi gestures to Ro's new collar pip.
TROI
Congratulations on your promotion --
Lieutenant.
And Ro returns the gesture --
RO
Same to you -- Commander.
TROI
Thank you.
GEORDI
(teasing)
I hear Advanced Tactical Training
is a real picnic...
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
Geordi is obviously teasing her in order to give her
the chance to tell them something about what she's been
up to, but Ro just smiles wryly at his comment.
RO
Right...
There's a slight lull in the conversation.
BEVERLY
Did you see the buffet?
TROI
Yes, that's real Bajoran foraiga.
GEORDI
It wasn't easy to find.
RO
You shouldn't have gone to all
this trouble...
The others wave her comment off.
3 ON PICARD
Ro sees him walking out of Ten Forward -- the one
person she might have wanted to spend time with.
4 RESUME SCENE
Where the conversation is at a bit of a standstill.
TROI
Where are your new quarters?
RO
Deck eight, section four.
Again, Ro doesn't take the conversational opportunity --
she's just not good at these sorts of gatherings.
BEVERLY
What do you plan to --
Suddenly Picard's COM VOICE interrupts.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard to Lieutenant Ro.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - TEASER 3.
4 CONTINUED:
RO
(hits combadge)
Go ahead, sir.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Please report to the Bridge.
RO
Yes, sir.
(to the others)
Excuse me.
We follow Ro as she crosses to the door, and EXITS to --
5 INT. CORRIDOR
where she's surprised to find Picard standing there
waiting for her with a faint smile on his face.
RO
Captain...
PICARD
You seemed a bit overwhelmed by
all the attention... I thought you
could use a break.
She smiles when he realizes that he pulled her away as
a favor.
RO
To tell you the truth, I could...
I want to see everyone, but I
think I'd rather do it one at a
time.
Picard acknowledges that he understands. It's obvious
that they're both very happy to see each other.
PICARD
You're looking fit, Lieutenant.
Tactical Training must have agreed
with you.
RO
You know me -- I enjoy a
challenge.
PICARD
That school is more than a
challenge. Half the class washes
out every year.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - TEASER 4.
5 CONTINUED:
PICARD (Cont'd)
(beat)
Somehow I knew you wouldn't be one
of those.
RO
I want you to know I appreciate
your recommending me.
(beat)
If it weren't for you, sir -- my
life would be a much different one
right now.
Picard smiles at her. He has an almost paternal
feeling about this young renegade.
Suddenly RIKER'S COM VOICE interrupts.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
(urgent)
Bridge to Captain --
PICARD
(hits combadge)
Go ahead.
6 INT. BRIDGE
where Riker has the Bridge. N.D.s as needed.
RIKER
We're receiving a distress signal
from a Cardassian ship near the
Demilitarized Zone.
7 INT. CORRIDOR
PICARD
Change course to intercept -- I'm
on my way.
(to Ro)
I'd like you at the Conn,
Lieutenant.
They head off down the corridor.
8 INT. BRIDGE
as Picard and Ro ENTER from the Turbolift and take
their positions. We're at red alert. WORF is at
Tactical, DATA at Ops.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - TEASER 5.
8 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Report.
RIKER
The Cardassian ship relayed a
distress signal but it was cut off
before they could tell us what was
wrong.
RO
I've got the ship on long-range
sensors.
(beat)
It appears to be under attack --
by several small ships.
PICARD
Can you identify them?
RO
No, sir. They aren't transmitting
identification codes.
DATA
I will scan their warp signatures.
A beat as Data works...
DATA
Sir, sensors indicate that the
attacking vessels are Federation
ships.
Off this moment --
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 6.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
9 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it hurtles by at impulse.
10 INT. BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
RO
We're coming into visual range.
PICARD
On screen.
On the VIEWSCREEN we see a Cardassian ship being
strafed by several smaller MAQUIS SHIPS -- Picard and
Riker react to their appearance.
RIKER
Those are Federation ships.
PICARD
Isolate one and magnify.
On the Viewscreen we see one of the Maquis ships closer
up -- it does not have Starfleet markings, or markings
of any kind. Picard recognizes it anyway.
PICARD
(continuing)
The Maquis...
(beat, grim)
Open a channel.
Worf works his console, indicates a channel is open.
PICARD
To all Maquis ships -- call off
your attack or we will be forced
to engage you.
After a moment --
WORF
No response.
Picard is not happy about this.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 6A.
10 CONTINUED:
PICARD
You are Federation citizens. Your
actions are in violation of our
treaty with the Cardassians. Call
off your attack.
Again, no response. Picard is left with no other
choice.
PICARD
Are we in firing range?
WORF
Not yet, sir.
PICARD
Arm phasers and photon torpedoes
and stand by.
RIKER
I never thought we'd be firing on
our own people to protect a
Cardassian ship...
DATA
The Maquis ships are regrouping...
they are closing in on the
Cardassian vessel.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 7.
10 CONTINUED: (2)
WORF
(off console)
The Cardassian's shields are down
to thirty percent.
RIKER
They may not be able to withstand
another hit.
WORF
Sir, we are within weapons range.
PICARD
Mister Worf, can you detonate a
torpedo spread between the Maquis
ships and the Cardassians?
WORF
Yes, sir.
PICARD
Do it.
Worf works his console and hears the SOUND of the
torpedoes firing --
11 EXT. SPACE - STOCK SHOT (OPTICAL)
as the torpedoes shoot out from the ship's hull.
12 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
Two Maquis ships are in frame, flying in formation.
Suddenly a photon burst dead ahead causes them to veer
sharply away and scatter.
13 INT. BRIDGE
WORF
The Maquis are breaking formation --
they are withdrawing.
Picard and Riker share a look of relief.
PICARD
Signal the Cardassians that we're
standing by to assist them if they
have any wounded.
OFF this moment...
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 8.
14 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
near the Cardassian ship.
15 INT. SICKBAY
where Beverly is treating GUL EVEK, last seen in
"Journey's End."
Several other N.D. CARDASSIANS are being treated by
N.D. Starfleet Personnel in the background, and Evek
keeps looking around to make sure they're all right,
making Beverly's task that much tougher.
GUL EVEK
Do your people have experience
treating Cardassians?
BEVERLY
Yes. Now please, sit still.
Evek lets out a frustrated breath. Picard ENTERS and
approaches. Beverly moves off to treat someone else.
PICARD
Gul Evek. I'm sorry we weren't
able to come to your aid sooner.
Gul Evek's response is far from grateful --
GUL EVEK
I suppose we're lucky you came at
all... lately Starfleet seems to
look the other way when the Maquis
attack.
PICARD
I assure you that's not the case.
We're doing everything we can to
control them.
GUL EVEK
(with cold irony)
The fact that they attacked my
ship suggests your efforts have
met with limited success.
He fixes Picard with a look.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 9.
15 CONTINUED:
GUL EVEK
The Maquis came at us with photon
torpedoes and type eight phasers --
tell me, Captain, how do you
suppose a group of civilians
acquired that kind of weaponry?
PICARD
It was certainly not through
official channels.
GUL EVEK
You don't think the fact that some
of the Maquis are former Starfleet
officers has anything to do with
it?
Picard's had just about enough of Gul Evek's
accusations.
PICARD
Starfleet does not condone the
Maquis' actions in the
Demilitarized Zone.
(beat)
Any more than your government
condones paramilitary actions by
Cardassian civilians.
GUL EVEK
We have taken measures to deal
with our colonists who have armed
themselves.
Picard throws Evek's words back at him --
PICARD
Considering that they destroyed a
Juhryan freighter less than a week
ago, I'd say your efforts have met
with limited success.
Evek leans in to Picard --
GUL EVEK
Give our military the right to
operate in the Zone for one week,
and we'll put a stop to
paramilitary activity once and for
all.
PICARD
What you're proposing would only
perpetuate the cycle of violence.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 10.
15 CONTINUED: (2)
GUL EVEK
Captain, if the Maquis aren't
stopped, this situation is going
to escalate to the point where the
Cardassian military will have no
choice but to take matters into
its own hands.
Off Picard's face as Gul Evek's threat sinks in...
16 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
cruising near Admiral Nechayev's ship.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, supplemental. Gul
Evek and his crew have left the
Enterprise, and we have proceeded
to our rendezvous with Admiral
Nechayev.
17 INT. READY ROOM
as Picard and NECHAYEV ENTER. Nechayev looks around,
as though searching for something.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 11.
17 CONTINUED:
NECHAYEV
No Bularian canapes this time,
Captain?
Picard smiles.
PICARD
Twice seemed to be pushing it a
little...
NECHAYEV
It's just as well.
(conspiratorial)
They're extremely fattening.
Picard gestures her to a seat.
PICARD
You missed Gul Evek by a matter of
hours. I asked him to stay -- I
thought perhaps an admiral's
assurances would convince him that
we are trying to deal with the
Maquis situation.
NECHAYEV
(annoyed)
Evek manages to make the
Cardassians sound like helpless
sheep being preyed on by
Federation wolves. The truth is,
we caught the Cardassian
government supplying its colonies
in the Demilitarized Zone with
weapons.
PICARD
(for what it's worth)
Gul Evek assures me that practice
has stopped.
NECHAYEV
Ah. How comforting.
Nechayev seems a little more stressed than usual.
Picard stares closely at her.
PICARD
Admiral... this Maquis situation
has you worried...
Nechayev gives him a look. The general thawing between
them allows her to be more vulnerable with him.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 12.
17 CONTINUED: (2)
NECHAYEV
It's a mess... and it just keeps
getting worse. I never imagined
I'd have to worry about Federation
citizens doing violence to others.
PICARD
Frankly, I can understand why our
colonists have taken up arms --
Starfleet isn't there to protect
them anymore.
NECHAYEV
Believe me, Captain, if I were
living that close to the
Cardassians I'd keep a phaser
under my pillow, too.
This is a rare moment of candor from her -- another
sign of improvement in their relationship.
NECHAYEV
(continuing)
But in the last few weeks we've
seen signs that the Maquis are
moving beyond self-defense. Their
ranks are growing... they've
acquired ships, weapons... they
seem to be preparing for a more
aggressive military posture.
Nechayev takes a breath... shakes her head at the sorry
situation.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 13.
17 CONTINUED: (3)
NECHAYEV
(continuing)
We have to put a stop to them...
before the entire Demilitarized
Zone ignites.
(beat)
But before we can stop them -- we
have to find them. They seem to
be scattered in small cells around
the Zone. And we don't have
reliable intelligence about any of
them.
PICARD
Perhaps you need an undercover
operative.
NECHAYEV
Our thinking exactly. We intend
to infiltrate their organization.
(beat)
And the person we want to do it is
aboard your ship right now.
Off Picard's questioning look...
CUT TO:
18 INT. RO'S QUARTERS
where Picard has just told her Nechayev's plan.
RO
Starfleet wants me to infiltrate
the Maquis?
PICARD
Because of your recent training...
because you're Bajoran... and
because of your past troubles with
Starfleet -- you'll have a certain
credibility.
Ironically, Picard interrupted Ro while she was
unpacking her belongings. These are the smaller,
windowless quarters.
RO
Well, that's certainly true.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 14.
18 CONTINUED:
She continues unpacking, perturbed, not thrilled by
this idea. Picard watches her carefully, understanding
her conflicting emotions.
RO
(continuing)
And just when would this mission
begin?
PICARD
Immediately.
Ro shoots him a glance.
RO
I see.
She pulls things out of her bag, smoothing and
refolding, using the activity to quiet her mind.
RO
(continuing)
I've spent the better part of my
life fighting the Cardassians...
I never thought I'd be helping
them out.
PICARD
This is a rare case where our
interests coincide with theirs --
we both want peace in the
Demilitarized Zone.
Ro stares down at the articles of clothing in her hand.
Solemnly --
RO
I've heard a lot about the Maquis.
(beat)
One of my instructors in Tactical
Training... a Lieutenant Commander
in Starfleet -- a man I admired
and respectded... was sympathetic
to them. He resigned and left to
join them.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT ONE 15.
18 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
We're all sympathetic, Lieutenant.
Our civilian population in the
Demilitarized Zone is in a
difficult situation.
(beat)
But sympathy ends at a certain
point. The peace treaty isn't
just a piece of paper. If the
Maquis force us into a war with
Cardassia, it could mean hundreds
of thousands of lives.
Ro nods an acknowledgement; she understands what's at
stake.
PICARD
Laren, two years ago, Starfleet
would never have tapped you for
this mission. They must have a
lot of confidence in you now.
She turns to him, the man who's done so much for her,
always believed in her.
RO
The way I see it... there's at
least one good reason to take this
mission, sir.
(beat)
That's to validate your faith in
me.
Picard and she share a smile as they think of
everything they've been through together... Off this
moment we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 16.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
19 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
a shot of a planet from space.
20 INT. ALIEN BAR (OPTICAL)
A seedy joint on some planet in the Demilitarized Zone.
Its patrons are a motley mix -- humans, Bajorans, and
a few Aliens.
The door OPENS and Ro ENTERS -- she's dressed in wornlooking
civilian clothes. She casts a nervous look
around, then moves toward the back of the bar -- we
immediately get the feeling she's in trouble, trying to
hide from someone.
Several patrons take note of Ro's entrance -- including
a HUMAN MALE at the bar, SANTOS. This is the kind of
place where no one asks questions, so Ro is left alone.
She sits on a bench against the back wall of the bar,
near a HUMANOID who casts a baleful glance at her and
then returns to his drink. Nearby, a male alien is
being entertained by an alien prostitute -- they're
kissing and laughing quietly to themselves.
Suddenly the door bursts OPEN and Worf and Data ENTER
with an urgent step -- they're looking for someone.
Ro immediately slides over to the HUMANOID and sits on
his lap, her back to Worf and Data -- his eyes go wide
but before he can say anything she starts kissing him,
pretending to be a prostitute. He doesn't resist.
All eyes are on Worf and Data, who quickly reconnoiter
the area -- nothing here, just some alien schlubs and
a couple of hookers in the back corner.
WORF
We are looking for a Bajoran
woman, dark hair.
They are met with blank stares -- no one wants to get
involved.
DATA
She is responsible for the death
of a Cardassian soldier.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 17.
20 CONTINUED:
Again, no one volunteers anything. The human at the
bar, Santos, glances back at Ro -- he's definitely
putting it together. Worf glares at the bartender.
WORF
If we learn that she has been
here, this establishment will be
closed down.
Santos steps forward.
SANTOS
You say she had dark hair?
WORF
Yes.
There's beat in which we think he's going to give her
up.
SANTOS
She was here... you just missed
her.
DATA
Do you know where she went?
SANTOS
No.
Worf and Data exchange a glance, and then move toward
the door. Worf casts a last scowl at the patrons, then
they EXIT. Ro immediately extricates herself from the
humanoid --
RO
Nice meeting you --
He's disappointed to lose her, but Ro is already up and
away before he can protest. She turns to Santos.
RO
(continuing)
Thanks.
With that, she crosses to the bar and orders. Santos
watches her for a beat, then follows.
SANTOS
Did you kill that Cardassian?
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 18.
20 CONTINUED: (2)
Ro studies his face before replying. She knows he took
a risk lying for her, but she can't be sure why he did
it.
RO
Starfleet thinks I did. That's
reason enough to hide.
(beat)
Why did you tell them I'd left?
Now it's his turn to study her face. The bartender
slides a drink in front of Ro.
SANTOS
There are worse things a person
could do than kill a Cardassian
soldier.
They hold each other's gaze for a long moment.
RO
You don't often meet someone
willing to say that out loud.
SANTOS
In the Zone, there are a lot of us
who feel that way.
She raises her glass slightly.
RO
I'd like to meet people like that.
Santos studies her face for a long beat. Ro takes a
sip of her drink, when she turns to look at him again
she sees that he's carrying a small PHASER. She
reacts, but it's too late -- he FIRES, stunning her and
causing her to crumple in her seat. Off this moment...
21 INT. MEETING ROOM
where Ro is unconscious, laid out on a bench.
Santos is with two others, a woman named KALITA, and an
older human male named MACIAS. Macias has a scar on
his face; his eyes shine with intelligence and
kindness. Kalita has a phaser.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 19.
21 CONTINUED:
All three of them are Maquis. Ro has been brought to
a town in the DMZ where many of the settlers are Maquis
or sympathizers. The room has a rough-hewn quality;
this settlement is on the "frontier."
Ro's eyes flutter open.
MACIAS
Don't be afraid. You're not in
danger here.
Ro sits up, touches her head to steady herself.
SANTOS
What's your name?
Ro doesn't answer, partly because she doesn't know who
these people are, partly because she's a little groggy.
KALITA
Did you kill that Cardassian
soldier?
RO
Who are you?
SANTOS
The people who saved you from
Starfleet.
Ro looks around at them. She suspects these people are
Maquis, but she must move cautiously.
RO
Thanks.
(beat)
But I'll be leaving now.
KALITA
Do you even know what planet
you're on?
RO
Ronara Prime.
SANTOS
Not anymore.
Ro reacts --
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 20.
21 CONTINUED: (2)
RO
Where am I then?
KALITA
We're not going to tell you that
until we know more about you.
Kalita's tone is colder than the others; she's more
suspicious of Ro.
RO
Like what?
SANTOS
Did you kill that Cardassian?
RO
Yes.
KALITA
That's a risky thing to do in the
Demilitarized Zone. You can end
up being hunted by Starfleet and
the Cardassians.
RO
(re: Santos)
Then... why did he risk bringing
me here?
Kalita makes one thing clear.
KALITA
We're asking the questions. Who
are you?
RO
My name is Ro Laren. I grew up in
the Bajoran camps...
Macias smiles his quiet smile.
MACIAS
That would explain why you have no
love for Cardassians.
RO
I know what they're capable of.
They tortured my father to
death... and forced me to watch.
Macias shakes his head in sympathy, but Santos and
Kalita press on.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 21.
21 CONTINUED: (3)
SANTOS
Where do you live now?
RO
Nowhere...
(beat)
I was a Starfleet officer. But I
was court martialed and spent time
in the stockade on Jaros Two. I'm
not exactly what you'd call
Starfleet material.
SANTOS
When were you on Jaros?
Ro acts like she's losing patience.
RO
What difference does it make?
Kalita snaps her back hard.
KALITA
We want to check your story. When
were you there?
RO
Starfleet let me out about three
years ago because I agreed to do
some work for them... mostly
having to do with Bajor. But I
got tired of watching them placate
the Cardassians and left.
KALITA
You resigned?
RO
Not officially.
(wry)
That's part of the reason they're
looking for me.
SANTOS
What were you doing on Ronara?
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 22.
21 CONTINUED: (4)
RO
Look, I've answered enough of your
questions -- I'd like to know who
you people are.
Macias decides to give her an answer.
MACIAS
Let's just say... we sympathize
with those who oppose Cardassia.
Ro stares at the group for a long moment. Then --
RO
Are you Maquis?
A small silence. No one gives away a thing.
MACIAS
What if we were... ?
Ro faces him squarely.
RO
If you were... then I would ask if
I could join you and help you
fight.
Macias glances over at Santos with a questioning look,
and Santos nods a yes. Macias turns back to Ro.
MACIAS
We will check your story.
Kalita hesitates, but Macias fixes a firm gaze on her.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 23.
21 CONTINUED: (5)
MACIAS
Go ahead. I'll keep an eye on
her.
Kalita hands Macias her phaser, and she and Santos
EXIT... After a moment, he sets the phaser down as if
unconcerned about Ro, and starts to rub his legs.
MACIAS
(continuing)
My circulation isn't what it used
to be...
He looks at her for a beat.
MACIAS
(continuing)
Come... let's stretch our legs.
He heads for the door, and Ro follows...
22 EXT. MAQUIS SETTLEMENT - NIGHT
as Ro and Macias walk through the central square.
Again, this is a "frontier town" -- it has a rough-hewn
quality, although there is evidence of Federation
technology.
Various N.D. SETTLERS go about their business as Ro
and Macias walk and talk.
RO
Aren't you taking a chance by
letting me see all this? What if
my story doesn't check out -- what
if I'm not who I say I am?
MACIAS
Then we'll have a problem, won't
we?
It is a definite threat, but Macias' manner makes the
statement less ominous.
RO
You are Maquis, aren't you?
MACIAS
Many people here are.
RO
Starfleet considers you outlaws.
They're afraid you'll destroy the
peace treaty.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 24.
22 CONTINUED:
MACIAS
They don't understand the
situation here in the Zone.
Ro hears the anger in his voice.
MACIAS
(continuing)
I lived on Juhraya... the colony
suddenly found itself in
Cardassian territory when the
treaty was signed. Some of us
chose to stay and take our
chances.
(beat)
One night I was dragged from my
bed and beaten. The authorities
clucked their tongues and agreed
it was an unfortunate incident...
and did nothing.
Ro shakes her head, disturbed.
RO
I'm not surprised. The
Cardassians intend to make life so
unpleasant for Federation citizens
that they'll leave.
Macias looks at her, gratified that she understands the
situation so well.
MACIAS
Exactly. And no one seems to see
that except the Maquis.
There is a silence as they walk. Then--
MACIAS
(continuing)
How old were you when your father
was killed?
Ro goes into a shutdown mode. This is something she
still doesn't talk about easily.
RO
I'd rather not talk about it.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 25.
22 CONTINUED: (2)
Macias gives her a look, recognizes the denial, backs
off. They have drawn near an outdoor cafe (or food
vendor of some kind). Macias gestures.
MACIAS
Are you hungry? Would you like
something?
RO
No. Thank you.
MACIAS
(to vendor)
Hasperat.
As the vendor prepares the burrito-like dish --
RO
(surprised)
You like hasperat?
MACIAS
An old Bajoran friend of mine used
to make it. Although his was much
stronger.
He takes a bite of the sandwich.
MACIAS
He died years ago... fighting the
Cardassian occupation of Bajor...
I miss his company... and his
hasperat...
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT TWO 26-27.
22 CONTINUED: (3)
RO
My father made the strongest
hasperat you've ever tasted.
Everything else seems mild by
comparison.
MACIAS
Did he teach you how to make it?
RO
Yes. But I haven't tried it in
years.
MACIAS
(beat)
If you would make the brine for
truly strong hasperat -- and I
mean eye-watering, tongue-searing
strong -- you would make an old
man very happy.
Ro smiles at him.
RO
I'd enjoy making it again.
Behind them, Santos and Kalita ENTER the square from a
building and start to approach them.
SANTOS (O.S.)
Macias...
Macias and Ro turn around. Santos and Kalita move
nearer.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 28.
22 CONTINUED: (4)
SANTOS
I checked with my sources at
Starfleet...
(re: Ro)
Her story's true.
Macias turns to Ro and smiles.
MACIAS
I was sure it was.
Ro is strangely touched by the trust this man has
demonstrated in her, though she continues to guard
those feelings well.
MACIAS
(continuing)
Kalita -- she'll stay with you
until we can find her a room.
Kalita doesn't respond, but acquiesces. She turns and
Ro follows her... but allows herself one quick glance
back at Macias.
23
thru OMITTED
24
25 EXT. MAQUIS SETTLEMENT - DAY
Camera MOVES through the square as the citizens go
about their business on a typical day. It's warm and
sunny, and people seem to be in a good mood. Camera
FINDS Ro sitting in the sun, a half-eaten hasperat roll
at her side. Santos approaches her.
SANTOS
Why aren't you with the others?
Ro looks up at him, surprised.
RO
Kalita told me to stay here -- she
had things to do.
Santos smiles knowingly. He realizes Kalita is trying
to keep Ro away from the group.
SANTOS
You've been here a week and she
still doesn't trust you.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 29.
25 CONTINUED:
Ro looks at him, puzzled.
SANTOS
(continuing)
We're meeting to discuss
strategy...
Ro realizes Kalita was deliberately excluding her.
RO
So that's what she meant by
"things to do." Kalita reminds
me of someone I knew during the
occupation... being a part of the
resistance was the only thing he
cared about. It was his identity.
Santos smiles...
SANTOS
That does sound like Kalita...
RO
Don't get me wrong, I was glad to
have him on my side... but he was
hard to be around.
(beat)
Sometimes people would stay up
late... telling stories -- you
know, trying to forget about our
troubles for a while. Kanore
would come out of his tent in a
huff and tell everyone to be quiet --
that we should get some rest so
we'd have "strength for our
struggle."
SANTOS
What would people do?
RO
(smiles)
We'd ignore him.
SANTOS
That sounds like the only way to
handle a person like that...
He shoots her a meaningful look.
SANTOS
I have to go... the meeting's
about to start.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 29A.
25 CONTINUED: (2)
He starts to cross away. Ro considers what he said for
a beat, then decides to follow. Santos sees her and
waits, a small smile on his face... Off this moment...
26 INT. MEETING ROOM
Macias, Kalita and several others are there, including
a Native American. Santos and Ro ENTER.
MACIAS
Ah... there you are.
As Ro and Santos take seats...
KALITA
(continuing)
We've just heard a disturbing
rumor.
RO
Another rumor?
Kalita hears the skepticism in her tone.
KALITA
One that I think we should take
seriously. A trader coming from
Pendi Two said he could verify
that the Cardassians are going to
start supplying their colonists
with bio-genic weapons.
This gets Macias' attention.
RO
I thought every shipment coming
into the Zone was searched...
KALITA
(scoffing at her
naivete)
The Cardassians always seem to
find a way to get around problems
like that.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 30.
26 CONTINUED:
SANTOS
We have to make a preemptive
strike. Send a message to
Cardassia that we won't sit still
and let them kill us with toxins.
MACIAS
Agreed. But we can't mount a
strike without medical supplies --
and our stockpile is dangerously
low.
KALITA
(concerned)
If we put in a request for more,
it'll draw suspicion.
A moment as they ponder this grim situation. Ro
hesitates, then --
RO
I can get medical supplies.
They all turn to stare at her.
RO
(continuing)
I served on the Enterprise. They
keep extra med-kits on hand for
relief missions.
Santos almost finds this amusing.
SANTOS
You're wanted by Starfleet.
They're not going to give you medkits
just because you ask.
RO
I have no intention of asking. I
intend to take them.
KALITA
How? The Enterprise is a
fortress.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 03/16/94 - ACT TWO 30A.
26 CONTINUED: (2)
RO
I know how its security systems
work. Give me a ship... I can do
it.
SANTOS
It's madness...
KALITA
We can't trust her with something
like this. We don't know anything
about her.
Macias holds Ro's eyes for a moment.
MACIAS
I know... that she can make very
strong hasperat.
Ro smiles at him.
KALITA
What?
MACIAS
We need medical supplies. I think
we should let her try.
A brief hesitation --
KALITA
All right. But I'm going with
her.
Macias glances at Ro.
RO
I could use an extra hand at the
controls. And a witness.
Macias nods, and Ro and Kalita hold a look, both
defiant and unyielding.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 31.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
27 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
a Maquis ship traveling at impulse.
27A INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
where we find Kalita sitting in the cockpit -- the ship
is on auto-pilot. Ro is working on a PANEL in the rear
of the ship. There's a heavy silence between them --
Kalita is not only suspicious of Ro, she's skeptical
that she can do what she promised. After a moment, Ro
finishes working... as she crosses forward toward the
cockpit --
RO
I set the transporter confinement
parameters to maximum -- we should
be able to fill our hold with
medical supplies in just a single
beam out.
KALITA
(with irony)
I had no idea it was going to be
so easy...
Ro bristles at Kalita's tone, but thinks better of
replying in kind... she keeps herself in check. She
sits in the cockpit and starts working the console.
RO
We're approaching the Federation
border...
KALITA
How do you plan to get out of the
Demilitarized Zone without being
searched at one of the checkpoints?
RO
We're going to cross the border
here.
Kalita reacts to what seems an improbable claim.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 32.
27A CONTINUED:
KALITA
There are sensor buoys all along
the border. If we cross anywhere
other than a checkpoint, Starfleet
will send a ship to investigate.
RO
With the right security codes, we
can disable the proximity
detectors on the buoys.
KALITA
Starfleet changes those codes all
the time.
Ro's hands fly across the controls.
RO
I know the encryption algorithims.
If I can access the bouy's
protocol subsystem I should be
able to figure out the codes.
KALITA
Should be able to?
As she works:
RO
Do you want this mission to
succeed?
KALITA
Of course I do -- we need those
medical supplies.
RO
In that case, let me do my job.
Kalita is about to reply when there is a beeping SOUND
from the control panel.
RO
(continuing)
I'm in...
Suddenly the console BEEPS a warning. Ro reacts --
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 33.
27A CONTINUED: (2)
KALITA
What's wrong?
Ro works the controls with great urgency.
RO
If I don't input the right code in
the next twenty seconds, we'll
trigger the proximity alarm.
Kalita reaches for the helm control.
KALITA
I'm getting us out of sensor
range.
RO
Don't. If we break the com-link,
we won't be able to try again.
Kalita withdraws her hand. Ro works with urgency --
finally, a beep-beep. Ro slumps back into her chair in
relief.
RO
It worked... until they change the
access codes again, we can cross
the border here.
Though Kalita doesn't let on, she's impressed with what
Ro's done. Off this moment...
28
thru OMITTED
30
31 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it hangs in space.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, Stardate 47943.2.
It has been over a week since
Lieutenant Ro left the
Enterprise... we have yet to
receive any communication from
her.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 34.
31A INT. BRIDGE
Riker has the Bridge, Data at Ops, Worf at Tactical,
N.D's as needed. Picard ENTERS from the Ready Room.
RIKER
We picked up a request for
emergency assistance from a
Federation science ship in the
Topin system.
Picard considers for a beat -- this couldn't have come
at a worse time.
PICARD
Are there any other ships in the
vicinity?
RIKER
We're the closest.
Picard turns to the con officer.
PICARD
Helm, set course for the Topin
system.
(to Data)
Signal the science ship that we're
on our way.
DATA
It is unlikely that they would
receive our communication. The
Topin system contains an unstable
binary-star. It generates
significant subspace interference.
PICARD
Will we be able to use our sensors
to find them?
DATA
Most of our sensor systems will be
ineffective, although our
directional array may be able to
cut through the interference.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 35.
31A CONTINUED:
RIKER
But that array has such a narrow
scan field...
(with grim irony)
-- we might as well break out the
palm-beacons and try to find them
that way...
It seems a daunting prospect... Off this moment...
31B EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
where the Maquis ship hangs motionless. In the b.g.
we can see the distinctive STAR of the Topin system.
32 INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
where Ro and Kalita are waiting. Again, a silence
hangs between them.
KALITA
This is insane... we're sitting
here with no sensors, blind to the
outside -- waiting for a galaxy
class Starship to come swooping
down on us...
RO
Don't worry... it'll be hard for
them to locate us with just their
directional sensors. Besides,
they're looking for a damaged
science ship that wants to be
found...
Suddenly a console beeps. They react --
RO
They're here... Standby to engage
thrusters.
32A INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard, Riker, Data and Worf as before.
RIKER
Anything?
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 36.
32A CONTINUED:
DATA
(off console)
No, sir. It will take
approximately six hours to scan
this system.
Riker and Picard glance at the VIEWSCREEN, which is
obscured by static because of all the interference.
Suddenly --
WORF
(urgent)
Sir -- the distress call is being
repeated.
PICARD
(to Data)
Can you locate the signal?
DATA
(working)
I am attempting to do so.
32B INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
Ro and Kalita as before.
RO
All stop.
KALITA
(off console)
They're scanning our last
position.
RO
All right, I've locked onto their
sensor beam. I'm going to use it
to maneuver into transporter
range.
Kalita is looking at Ro -- she can't quite believe
they've come this far.
KALITA
How are we going to beam through
their shields?
RO
We can't -- if we're going to get
those medical supplies, we're
going to have to take this ship
through their shields.
Off Kalita's astonished reaction at Ro's audacious
plan...
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 37.
32C INT. BRIDGE
as before.
DATA
Sir, I am scanning the area from
which the distress signal was
sent... but I am unable to detect
a vessel.
WORF
Captain -- the computer has
detected a piggyback communication
on the last distress signal...
PICARD
Can you decode it?
WORF
It will take a few moments.
PICARD
Do it.
32D INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
where Ro is explaining what she's doing to Kalita.
RO
The Enterprise shields have a weak
point... When the ship is at
impulse, the thrust destabilizes
the shield configuration right at
this point.
On the MONITOR, Ro indicates a graphic of the
Enterprise, and a point directly behind the main
impulse engines, between the nacelles.
RO
(continuing)
I'm going to try to punch through
there.
KALITA
Won't they detect us?
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 38.
32D CONTINUED:
RO
They'll know something's
penetrated the shields, but with
all the interference it'll take
them a few seconds to find us.
We'll have to beam the medical
supplies aboard and get out fast.
Kalita tries to assimilate all that's happened... She
can't quite believe it, but she's beginning to think Ro
can pull just about anything off...
32E INT. BRIDGE
as before.
WORF
The message is difficult to
decode... the interference has
garbled much of the transmission.
But it seems to be from Lieutenant
Ro.
PICARD
Ro... is on that ship... ?
Reactions. Suddenly --
DATA
(off console)
Sir, a vessel of some kind is
attempting to penetrate our aft
shields.
Picard considers for half a beat --
PICARD
Let it through.
Off this moment...
32F INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
as Ro works her controls. We see her react to
something she sees -- a small smile... Picard must have
gotten her message. For Kalita's sake, she plays it
through.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 39.
32F CONTINUED:
RO
We're going to make it...
32G EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as the Maquis ship slips through the shield bubble and
moves into a point between the nacelles. The great
cylinders loom large next to the tiny ship.
32H INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
RO
All right, we're in...
Kalita works her console.
KALITA
Energizing.
We hear the SOUND of transport and they both turn to
the back of the shuttle.
32I NEW ANGLE
revealing a large stack of medical kits in the aft
section.
32J RESUME SCENE
as Kalita smiles in disbelief.
RO
Let's get out of here...
Off this moment...
32K INT. BRIDGE
WORF
(off console)
Captain, a quantity of medical
supplies was beamed out of Cargo
Bay Seven.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 40.
32K CONTINUED:
Picard is unconcerned.
DATA
(off console)
The vessel that penetrated our
shields is of the same design as
the ships used by the Maquis.
(beat)
It is moving off...
PICARD
Let it go.
(beat)
There must be someone with her...
We should make it look like we're
trying to stop them.
(to Worf)
Lock phasers on their previous
position and fire.
We hear the SOUND of phasers firing. Riker turns to
Picard.
RIKER
(wry)
Now we know what they mean by
Advanced Tactical Training...
Off their shared smile...
33 EXT. SPACE - THE MAQUIS SHIP (OPTICAL)
at impulse.
34 EXT. MAQUIS SETTLEMENT - DAY
where Ro and Kalita are being greeted by a jubilant
group of Maquis including Macias and Santos. Kalita is
animatedly telling the story of how they did it.
Santos can't believe what he's hearing --
SANTOS
You took your ship through their
shields?
KALITA
Ro parked us between their warp
nacelles. I thought she was
crazy, but it worked. She knew
exactly what she was doing.
Macias puts a hand to Ro's shoulder.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT THREE 40A.
34 CONTINUED:
MACIAS
Well, done.
SANTOS
We should inventory the
supplies... find out what we
have.
The others acknowledge and move off. Before crossing
away, Kalita turns to Ro --
KALITA
I'll see you later...
She treats Ro with the easy manner of a friend. Ro
smiles, and Kalita moves off.
MACIAS
Well... it seems that Kalita's
decided you're not a Federation
spy after all...
Ro manages a smile.
MACIAS
(continuing)
She's suspicious of everyone at
first. And rightly so -- we've
learned to be cautious with
strangers.
RO
I understand...
MACIAS
But I've known since I first met
you -- in your heart, you're one
of us...
Ro is struck by the irony of the moment... but somehow,
the certainty in Macias' voice strikes a chord in
her... Off her expression we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 41.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
35
thru OMITTED
42
43 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
hanging in space.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, supplemental.
Having earned the Maquis' trust
with her raid on the Enterprise,
Lieutenant Ro has been given
access to a ship and allowed to
leave the settlement by herself.
44 OMITTED
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 42.
45 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
where Picard and Ro are meeting. They're both glad to
see each other...
RO
There are rumors that the
Cardassians are supplying their
colonists with bio-genic weapons.
Picard can see that she's genuinely concerned about
this.
PICARD
Frankly, I find it hard to
believe. Every ship going into
the Demilitarized Zone is being
searched.
RO
The Maquis are convinced that the
Cardassians have found a way
around the searches.
Picard considers for a beat.
PICARD
We might be able to use that...
RO
Sir... ?
PICARD
We've come up with a plan that has
the potential to seriously curtail
the Maquis.
This gets Ro's attention.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 43.
45 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(continuing)
We want to give them a target so
threatening -- that they'd be
willing to commit as many people
and ships as possible to destroy
it.
RO
What do you mean, give them a
target?
PICARD
Bio-genic weapons, for example.
You could provide the Maquis with
intelligence that the Cardassians
are in fact supplying their
colonists with them.
RO
That'll get their attention, all
right...
PICARD
You could tell them that in order
to get past the check-points, the
Cardassians are shipping the
components for these weapons
through third parties. We'll put
together a convoy and send it
toward the Demilitarized Zone.
Ro sees where he's going --
RO
And when the Maquis attack it,
Starfleet will be waiting for
them.
PICARD
We'll station our ships in the
Hugora Nebula to avoid detection.
Ro is silent for a beat, assimilating Picard's plan...
and her role in it.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 44.
45 CONTINUED: (3)
RO
Basically, I'd be leading them
into a trap...
PICARD
That's correct.
He studies her face for a beat. Picard senses she's
feeling conflicting emotions about this.
RO
(carefully)
If your plan works, what will
Starfleet do when the Maquis
attack the convoy?
PICARD
Our intention is to outnumber them
so heavily that they'll have no
choice but to surrender.
RO
These people are used to fighting
impossible odds -- I don't think
they're going to surrender.
Picard takes this in.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 45.
45 CONTINUED: (4)
PICARD
I hope you're wrong. Because if
they don't, we'll have to try to
disable their vessels...
(beat)
-- you know as well as I do that's
not always possible.
Picard sees Ro swallow back, hard.
PICARD
(continuing)
If you have a problem with any of
this, I need to know now.
She doesn't want to let him down --
RO
If I did, it wouldn't stop me from
carrying out my duty, sir.
Picard is gratified to hear this.
PICARD
I knew I could count on you...
Ro manages a small smile... Off this moment...
46 INT. MEETING ROOM
(FORMERLY SCENE 41)
where Ro is in the process of implementing Picard's
plan -- planting misinformation. Macias, Kalita and
Santos are present.
RO
-- it took a while, but I managed
to patch into Starfleet's comsystem.
I intercepted a
communication from one of the
check-points on the border.
They're concerned because a Pakled
transport came through carrying
retro-viral vaccines.
No one sees a problem with this --
SANTOS
Why is that a concern?
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 46.
46 CONTINUED:
RO
Last week, a Ferengi transport
came through carrying bio-mimetic
gels. By themselves, neither of
these is dangerous. But Starfleet
is concerned because with a few
more components the Cardassians
could put together a bio-genic
device.
Reactions. This is their worst fear come to life.
KALITA
What is Starfleet going to do
about it?
RO
They can't do anything. These
items are all perfectly legal.
Frustrated reactions.
MACIAS
How close are the Cardassians to
having the components they need?
RO
Very close. Two days ago, a
Yridian convoy left Deep Space
Nine for the Demilitarized Zone.
It's carrying isomiotic hypos,
plasma flares and quarantine pods.
KALITA
We can't let that convoy reach its
destination.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 47.
46 CONTINUED: (2)
SANTOS
But it's too big for us to go
after alone.
MACIAS
I'll discuss the situation with
the other cell leaders --
considering what's at stake,
they'll want to help.
With that, the meeting starts to break up. Ro takes a
moment to collect herself -- it worked, but she doesn't
know how she feels about it.
47 EXT. SETTLEMENT - NIGHT
Ro sits watching the busy square full of citizens.
THREE HOODED MONKS are seen in the b.g. Macias
approaches.
MACIAS
I've sent a communication to the
others...
She nods glumly, and Macias sees that something is on
her mind.
MACIAS
(continuing)
When this is over, we'll
celebrate.
RO
When it's over?
MACIAS
When Cardassia realizes they can't
intimidate us into leaving our
colonies.
Ro smiles grimly.
RO
Something tells me it might be a
long time before we'll be
celebrating.
He eyes her, hearing her somberness.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 48.
47 CONTINUED:
MACIAS
Don't be discouraged, Ro. It will
take time... but the important
thing is that we not give up.
She eyes him sharply.
RO
I spent ten years in the camps.
I don't give up.
He puts a hand on her shoulder, affectionate.
MACIAS
I've been thinking about what our
celebration will be like for a
long time. We'll have a huge
dinner... you'll make hasperat
and I'll make blueberry pie...
we'll drink wine and we'll dance.
He smiles and leans toward her.
MACIAS
(continuing)
I'll even play the belaklavion.
That will give everyone a laugh.
She looks up at him, curious.
RO
You... play the klavion?
MACIAS
(laughing, dismissive)
Yes, badly. It's a difficult
instrument... but I enjoy the
challenge.
There is a small pause.
RO
My father... played the klavion.
Macias glances sidelong at her. This is the first
spontaneous offering Ro has made about her father. He
is silent. There is another pause, and then Ro
continues.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 49.
47 CONTINUED: (2)
RO
When I was very young... and
afraid of monsters under my bed...
my father would play for me. He
said the sound of the klavion had
special powers. Monsters were
afraid of it... and they'd
disappear whenever they heard it.
(beat)
When I listened to the music he
played for me... I was never
afraid to go to sleep.
She hesitates, then, very quietly...
RO
When he died... I realized... even
he couldn't make all the monsters
go away.
Macias reaches out and covers Ro's hand with his own,
a comforting gesture.
MACIAS
Why wait... ? Let's go to the
market. Let's get the food for a
feast. For a celebration...
RO
A celebration of what?
MACIAS
Of absolutely nothing. Just to
celebrate.
She smiles and stands.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 50.
47 CONTINUED: (3)
Ro
I'd like that.
They start across the square. Suddenly there's a
commotion -- the three monks throw back their hoods and
we see that they're really Cardassians. They pull
weapons from their robes and start FIRING.
People are scattering and trying to take cover. The
Cardassians had the advantage of surprise, and have
taken up strategic positions that provide them shelter
and allow them to dominate the fight.
Some of the Maquis are shooting back, but most weren't
armed when the attack broke out. We see several Maquis
rush from a door carrying weapons -- they toss them to
their comrades, including Ro.
47A ON SANTOS (OPTICAL)
behind a structure -- a weapons blast hits it and he
steps out to take a SHOT.
47B A CARDASSIAN (OPTICAL)
as Santos' shot takes him down -- two Cardassians are
left.
47C RESUME SCENE (OPTICAL)
Several Maquis have taken hits and are down.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FOUR 51-52.
47C CONTINUED:
Macias takes a second Cardassian down, but the last
Cardassian gets off a lucky shot -- and Macias takes a
blast in the chest. He falls... and the Cardassian is
felled by Ro.
Ro and Kalita run to Macias' side.
RO
Macias...
He's badly wounded and in pain.
MACIAS
They must have found out... there
was a Maquis cell here...
Ro is inspecting the wound and sees that it's severe.
RO
Kalita -- get one of the med kits.
Hurry.
Kalita runs off. Macias is fading fast.
RO
(continuing)
You have to hang on...
He dismisses this with a faint shake of his head. When
he speaks, his voice is little more than a whisper.
MACIAS
When an old fighter like me
dies... someone always steps
forward to take his place...
He takes her hand, looks into her eyes for a last time,
and smiles his gentle smile...
48 OMITTED
49 ON RO
as she watches Macias' life slip away from him... Off
this moment we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 53.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
A50 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
(FORMERLY SCENE 43)
as it hangs in space.
B50 INT. BRIDGE
(FORMERLY SCENE 44)
Riker has the Bridge. Data is at Aft Science, N.D.s as
needed. Picard ENTERS from his Ready Room.
PICARD
What is it?
RIKER
We just got a communication from
Lieutenant Ro. Data's decoding it
now.
Riker and Picard approach Data, who turns away from his
console, finished.
DATA
(to Picard)
She is requesting that you meet
with her.
Picard is disturbed by this message.
RIKER
Was that part of your plan?
PICARD
No. Something must have gone
wrong.
CUT TO:
C50 INT. ALIEN BAR
(FORMERLY SCENE 45)
as Picard ENTERS, dressed in slightly ragged-looking
civilian clothes. Many of the same motley characters
are here tonight as well.
Picard doesn't see Ro, and so makes his way to the bar.
The BARTENDER approaches him to see if he wants
anything.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 54.
C50 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Ale.
Picard pays for his beverage with coins he brought for
this purpose. The door OPENS and Ro ENTERS. The
Humanoid she kissed before is sitting near the entrance
and his eyes light up when he sees her. He stands to
approach his old flame but Ro fixes him with a look.
RO
Not tonight.
She moves past the disappointed fellow and goes to sit
next to Picard at the bar. She gives him a come-hither
smile, as though soliciting him.
RO
(continuing)
Hello... are you alone?
Picard turns and gives her an appraising look.
PICARD
I hope not.
She smiles again, caressing his cheek.
RO
Why don't we get acquainted... ?
There's a table in the back that's
more... private.
PICARD
I'd like that.
They make their way to the back table and sit, Ro being
very physical with him, caressing, holding his hand.
Picard plays the very eager john. The scene is played
out as they talk serious business while outwardly
appearing to be engaging in casual romanticizing.
RO
We have to cancel the mission.
PICARD
Why?
RO
The Maquis didn't go for the bait.
They think a convoy is too big a
target.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 54A.
C50 CONTINUED: (2)
This makes no sense to Picard. He considers for a beat
as Ro traces her fingers on his palm.
PICARD
But there are only six ships. We
could even cut down the number.
RO
It's... it's the commitment of
resources... of grouping so many
of the Maquis together at once...
(beat)
They feel it would make them too
vulnerable.
Picard frowns, trying to reconcile what she's saying.
PICARD
Every intelligence report I get
from Starfleet suggests that the
Maquis are eager to expand their
strikes... are looking to escalate
their activity... but you're
telling me that's not true... ?
Ro takes a moment, trying to cover.
RO
It's... probably different in
every cell. The people I've met
tend to be more -- conservative.
I'm sure others have a more
militant attitude...
He stares at her. None of this rings true.
PICARD
(softly)
Laren... what's going on?
She takes his look for a moment, then glances around
them.
RO
Do you have the money I asked you
to bring?
PICARD
Yes.
RO
Put some on the table.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 54B.
C50 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
What?
RO
By this time, we should be
negotiating my price.
Picard digs into his pocket, takes out a few coins. Ro
picks one up, inspects it.
RO
(continuing)
When you sent me on this mission,
I thought I could do it. Even
though it meant helping
Cardassians. Even though it meant
betraying people who were fighting
them.
(beat)
But now... I'm not sure about
where I stand.
Picard takes this in.
PICARD
Laren, are you telling me you want
to back out of this mission?
RO
Sir, I don't want to let you down,
I swear I don't --
PICARD
This has nothing to do with me --
it's about you. If you back out
now, you'll be throwing away
everything you've worked for.
RO
(desperately reaching)
Wouldn't it be better to postpone
this operation... let me stay with
them longer, meet other Maquis
leaders... learn where their cells
are... it seems to me I could be
more valuable if I had more
time...
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 54C.
C50 CONTINUED: (4)
PICARD
And just prolong the inevitable?
No.
(beat)
We're committed to this mission.
My only question to you is -- can
you carry out your orders?
Wretched, Ro looks at him, not answering.
PICARD
(continuing)
Lieutenant... I could put you
before a board of inquiry for
having lied to me about this
operation. I could certainly have
you court martialed if you
sabotage it.
(beat)
But I don't want to have to
threaten you to do this... I want
you to make the decision.
This is the man who gave her a chance. This is the man
who has stood by her. And all he wants is what's right
for her.
RO
I'll carry out my orders, sir.
Picard takes a breath, considers his options.
PICARD
I feel it necessary to have
Commander Riker return with you.
He can pose as a relative.
Her look asks the question: is that necessary?
PICARD
(continuing)
To make sure nothing happens that
might obstruct this mission.
Ro looks down, acknowledging the fact that she's
ruptured their relationship. He can no longer trust
her.

STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 54D.
C50 CONTINUED: (5)
He stands, gathers his coins.
PICARD
(loudly)
Sorry -- I don't have that kind of
money.
He turns and EXITS the bar. Off Ro's face as she
watches him go...
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 55.
D50
thru OMITTED
50
51 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
hanging inside a Nebula (STOCK SHOT).
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, supplemental. We
have received word from Commander
Riker and Lieutenant Ro that the
Maquis will be attacking the
convoy as planned... our ships
have taken up position in the
Hugora Nebula to wait for them.
52 INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard and Worf are at an aft station with Data,
looking at a sensor readout on a MONITOR. The readout
shows a section of space on a grid -- on the left edge
we see the nebula, and in the center, the convoy,
depicted as a series of blips. Along the right side a
line demarcates the border of the DMZ.
DATA
I have established a relay-link
with the sensor probe we left on
the perimeter of the Nebula.
(gestures)
This is the convoy. We are
expecting the Maquis attack force
to cross the border from the
Demilitarized Zone here.
He indicates the right edge of the screen.
PICARD
As soon as they cross the border,
we'll intercept them...
WORF
In order to insure that the ship
Commander Riker and Lieutenant Ro
are piloting does not come under
fire, I have relayed its warp
signature to the rest of our
attack force.
Data reacts to something on the monitor, calls the
Captain's attention to the screen, where a few blips
have entered from the right edge.
DATA
Sir, the Maquis squadron is coming
into sensor range.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 56.
52 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Go to red alert.
Off Picard's face as he realizes it's begun...
53 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
a squadron of Maquis ships flying in formation at
impulse.
54 INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
Riker and Ro are silent as they pilot the ship for a
beat. She's about to betray a group of people she's
come to care about and she feels awful about it.
SANTOS' COM VOICE
Squad leader to all ships.
RO
Go ahead, squad leader.
INTERCUT:
55 INT. SANTOS' MAQUIS SHIP
where Santos and the Native American Maquis are in the
cockpit.
SANTOS
We'll be crossing the border in
less than one minute. Arm your
weapons.
RO'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 57.
56
thru OMITTED
59
60 INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP (OPTICAL)
as they work their controls.
RIKER
Starfleet can't make its move
until we're out of the
Demilitarized Zone. We're to
break formation and take cover in
the Nebula as soon as they appear.
Ro takes this in without comment.
RO
(off console)
The ships in the convoy are
raising their shields... they've
spotted us.
Riker checks his console.
RIKER
We cross the border in thirty
seconds...
As the moment approaches, the turmoil within Ro
intensifies. We see a look cross her features, as if
she's come to a decision within herself.
She reaches forward and calmly works a control. After
a beat, we hear the SOUND of a power surge.
RIKER
What the --
When Riker turns toward her he sees that she has a HAND
PHASER aimed at him.
RO
I'm sorry... but I can't let this
happen.
Off his stunned reaction...
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 58-59.
61
thru OMITTED
63
64 INT. BRIDGE
where Picard is standing with Data looking at the aft
station monitor.
DATA
(off console)
Sir, the vessel being piloted by
Lieutenant Ro is firing a low-intensity
particle beam into the
Nebula...
PICARD
What the hell is she doing?
DATA
The polarizing effect created by
the beam may make it possible for
us to be detected.
Picard's face hardens --
PICARD
Can you counter the effect?
Data works his console.
DATA
I will attempt to do so.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 60.
65 INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP
where a frustrated Riker glares at a determined Ro.
SANTOS'S COM VOICE
Ro, why are you firing?
RO
Scan the Nebula -- there's a
Starfleet attack force hiding
inside it.
66 INT. SANTOS' MAQUIS SHIP
as he reacts to his console.
SANTOS
I see them --
(to com)
Squad leader to all ships -- abort
the mission. Repeat, abort the
mission.
67 INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
DATA
Sir, the Maquis ships are breaking
formation.
On the MONITOR, the Maquis blips are scattering.
PICARD
Have they crossed the border?
DATA
No, sir. They are withdrawing...
Picard slams the console in frustration.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 61.
67 CONTINUED:
WORF
(off console)
Sir, Lieutenant Ro's ship is not
retreating with the others...
(beat)
It is heading toward us...
Picard takes this in.
PICARD
When she comes aboard... take her
into custody...
Picard's tone says it all -- he feels personally
betrayed by her. Off this moment...
68 INT. RO'S MAQUIS SHIP (OPTICAL)
Ro works the controls for a few beats, careful to keep
the phaser trained on Riker. Finally she finishes and
stands, avoiding Riker's gaze.
RO
Alpha Seven to Alpha Nine.
KALITA'S COM VOICE
Go ahead.
RO
Stand by to beam me aboard.
KALITA'S COM VOICE
Standing by.
Ro and Riker look at each other for a beat.
RO
You can take this ship back to the
Enterprise.
RIKER
You're going with them?
There's more concern in his voice than anger.
RO
Yes... it's been a long time since
I felt like I really belonged
somewhere.
Riker acknowledges.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 62.
68 CONTINUED:
RO
Could you tell Captain Picard
something for me?
Riker nods that he will.
RO
(continuing)
Tell him... that I'm sorry.
She moves to the center of the cockpit, ready for beam
out.
RIKER
So long, Ro. Take care of
yourself.
RO
Good-bye.
(to com)
Energize.
Off Riker's face as he watches her DEMATERIALIZE...
69 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it moves at impulse through a starfield.
70 INT. READY ROOM
where Riker has just told Picard everything.
RIKER
She seemed... very sure that she
was making the right choice.
Picard takes this in.
RIKER
(continuing)
I think her only real regret...
was that she let you down.
STAR TREK: "Preemptive Strike" - REV. 3/16/94 - ACT FIVE 63.
70 CONTINUED:
But Picard isn't buying it.
PICARD
She let us all down...
Riker hands Picard a PADD he's carrying.
RIKER
Here's my report...
Picard nods, and Piker turns and EXITS.
Picard looks down at the PADD... we see a distant look
in his eyes -- he's not reading it, his mind is
elsewhere. After a moment, he sets it down on the
desk, and moves toward the window.
He looks out at the stars... thinking about the events
of the last few days, wondering, perhaps, if he'll ever
see Ro again... Off this moment...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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