startrek-ml/Data/Tng/107.txt

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 

                      "The Last Outpost" 
                          #40271-107 

                           Story by 
                       Richard Krzemien 

                          Teleplay by 
                        Herbert Wright 

                          Directed by 
                         Richard Colla 


Copyright 1987 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved.

This script is not for publication or reproduction. No one
is authorized to dispose of same. If lost or destroyed,
please notify the Script Department.


                      REVISED FINAL DRAFT

                        AUGUST 7, 1987

         STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "The Last Outpost" 

                             CAST 

                PICARD             DAIMON TAAR (FERENGI)
                RIKER              TWO TEEN BOYS
                DATA                  MATTHEWS
                TROI                  POLA
                BEVERLY            TRANSPORTER CHIEF
                TASHA              TASHA
                WORF               FERENGI
                GEORDI             LETEK (LEADER)
                                   MORDOC
                                   KAYRON

                                   PORTAL


         STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "The Last Outpost" 

                             SETS 

           INTERIORS                   EXTERIORS
          
           ENTERPRISE                  USS ENTERPRISE
             Main Bridge
             Conference Room           FERENGI VESSEL
             Briefing Room
              (re-dress of Ready Room) PLANET SURFACE (GAMMA TAURI IV)
             Transporter Room

       STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - TEASER       1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                      "The Last Outpost"                           
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - STARSHIP (OPTICAL)

	A DOT OF LIGHT becomes a starship, as the USS Enterprise
	rockets directly TOWARD CAMERA, driving hard at warp
	speed... in chase.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 41194.6.
			We are in pursuit of a starship
			of Ferengi design. Our mission
			is...

2    INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	At their regular stations, intent upon the chase, are
	PICARD, RIKER, TROI, DATA, GEORDI, TASHA and WORF.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... to intercept and recover a T-9
			energy converter which the Ferengi
			stole from an unmanned monitor
			post on Gamma Tauri IV -- a theft
			which automatic scanners recorded,
			providing us...

3    ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	Part of the vast galaxy STARFIELD, streaking by as the
	Enterprise plummets through in high warp. A computer
	targeting CIRCLE silently searches the screen.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... with the long awaited
			opportunity to make close contact
			with a Ferengi vessel. If we
			succeed in this chase, it
			will be Starfleet's first look
			at a life form... which discounting
			rumor, we know almost nothing
			about.

       STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - TEASER       2.

3    CONTINUED:

	The circle stops, brightens, BEEPS -- a signal "on
	target."

4    EMPHASIZING PICARD

					RIKER
			There she is!

					PICARD
			Enlarge.

5    ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)

	The circle becomes a magnifier, homing in on a
	non-moving PINPOINT OF LIGHT, as the outside scene
	continues to streak.

					PICARD
			What is their course?

6    INTERCUT PRINCIPALS AND VIEWER (OPTICAL)

	All eyes are intent on the viewscreen. Considerable
	excitement on the bridge in anticipation of seeing the
	Ferengi vessel. Suddenly the growing pinpoint veers
	sharply left.

					GEORDI
			They are now angling through that
			solar system, Captain.

					PICARD
			Identify.

					DATA
			Listed as Delphi Ardu, sir.
			Eleven planets, unexplored.

					RIKER
			Stay with them, La Forge.

	The Enterprise readjusts, and the starfield shifts to
	the right, placing its target back "on center." Another
	BEEP as that occurs.

					TASHA
			Sensors read a power surge on
			their last maneuver, Captain.

       STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - TEASER       3.

6    CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			They are dropping to sub-warp
			speed... !

					PICARD
				(quickly)
			Reduce to impulse power... !

7    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	showing WARP TO SUBWARP EFFECT.

8    INT. MAIN BRIDGE - INTERCUT PRINCIPALS AND VIEWER
	(OPTICAL)

	The Ferengi vessel becoming LARGER, but its shape and
	details still undefined.

					TASHA
			Sensor fluctuations in the energy
			readings from it, Captain.

					DATA
			Possibility: a malfunction in
			their engines, sir.

					GEORDI
			Breaks my heart.

					WORF
			In visual range, Captain.

					PICARD
			Fully enlarge!

	On screen APPEARS the FERENGI STARSHIP: a strange
	horseshoe crab-like design, a bit smaller than the
	Enterprise. The alien vessel is now passing near a
	CLOUDED PLANET.

					GEORDI
			Hello, stranger!

					PICARD
			Very impressive design.

	From their reaction, the Bridge Crew realize this is an
	historic moment.

       STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - TEASER       4.

8    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Anything on that design, Data?

					DATA
			Nothing specific, sir. As you
			know, Ferengi technology is
			estimated to be generally equal
			to our own...

					PICARD
			Which does not mean identical,
			however...

					DATA
			Correct, sir. We are no doubt
			advanced in some areas, they in
			others...

					GEORDI
				(interrupts)
			They show another power surge,
			sir.

	Then from the Ferengi starcraft, an electric-wave ARC
	RIPPLES out and back from the trailing sides. It is
	something like a spacebourne stingray.

					WORF
			They are firing on us!

	The viewscreen abruptly FLARES as the neon-bright arc
	hits the Enterprise's forward quarter! (OPTICAL) All
	the Bridge lights dim and come back up from the
	crackling pulse attack!

					PICARD
			Damage report!

					TASHA
			Shields holding!

					DATA
			Mostly electromagnetic, sir.
			Fusion generator and batteries
			down by...

					GEORDI
				(interrupts)
			Our impulse engines are surging!

					WORF
			They're firing again.

	And then ANOTHER ARC hits! A second FLARE! (OPTICAL)

       STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - TEASER       5.

8    CONTINUED: (2)

					TASHA
			Deflector shield power weakening,
			Captain.
				(looks up)
			Phasers ready, sir. Photon
			torpedoes ready...

					RIKER
			Shall we return their fire,
			sir... ?

					PICARD
			Negative, Number One. They are
			reacting to close pursuit.
				(to Geordi)
			Fall back a bit but stay with
			them.

	On the viewer, the Ferengi starship now swivels toward
	the Enterprise, pointing a snakehead-like prow in our
	direction.

					DATA
			They are slowing too, sir.

					TASHA
			They may be turning to fight!

					PICARD
			Open hailing freq...
				(to Geordi)
			Why are we gaining on them? Don't
			anticipate...

					GEORDI
			I'm not, sir! Something's wrong...

					DATA
			Sir, something is dragging us
			forward.

					PICARD
			Yes, I read it, too. Lieutenant
			Yar, what do your sensors show?

					TASHA
			Not certain, sir. I'm getting very
			confusing readings.

9    EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND FERENGI STARSHIP
	(OPTICAL)

	Both spacecraft are moving toward adjacent orbits of
	the clouded planet.

       STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - TEASER       6.

10   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - INTERCUTTING MAIN VIEWER
	(OPTICAL)

	On the viewscreen, the planet plus the Ferengi vessel
	even closer now.

					DATA
			Captain, this shouldn't be. Our
			ship's power systems are failing!

					TASHA
			Deflector shields failing, phasers
			going inoperative, sir...

					GEORDI
			Something is completely
			immobilizing us, Captain!

					WORF
			Immobilized by the damn Ferengi?!

					PICARD
			I need more information! Identify
			what they are using!

11   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND FERENGI VESSEL (OPTICAL))

	in orbit of the planet, now locked together by that
	"something."

12   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING PICARD (OPTICAL)

	all his bridge crew intently seeking an answer.

					RIKER
			Obviously we've underestimated
			their technology, Captain...

					PICARD
				(nods, rises;
				 alarmed)
			Considerably. It appears the
			Ferengi have us right where they
			want us -- in their sights.

	CAMERA TIGHTENS PAST our troubled command team to the
	Main Viewscreen, on which the mysterious Ferengi
	starship challenges the Enterprise, floating under the
	murky globe above, as we:

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      7.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

13   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND FERENGI STARSHIP
	(OPTICAL)

	Locked in adjacent orbit of the nearby clouded planet.

14   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	as the professionals go about their business. Picard
	turns to Tasha:

					PICARD
			Are we searching all frequencies?
			Any sign of any kind of message?

					TASHA
			Negative, sir.

					PICARD
			Weapon report, Lieutenant Worf.

					WORF
			I have phasers and torpedoes
			armed, but I show insufficient
			power to fire them.

					PICARD
			Engineering, give me status on
			power recovery.
				(waits; no answer)
			Engineering, come in.
				(beat)
			Why aren't they answering?
				(waits; turns
				 to Geordi)
			Go below, Lieutenant. Get me a
			full report from Engineering.

					GEORDI
			Aye, sir.

	Geordi EXITS to the turbolift, as Riker studies the
	viewer.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      8.

14   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			It seems impossible they could
			be draining all power from all
			systems.

	Troi is still facing the viewer, her face a picture of
	concentration, of mental penetration.

					PICARD
			Counselor?

					TROI
			I'm sensing nothing from them
			Captain. Which could mean they
			can shield their thoughts and
			emotions from others.

					PICARD
			Which still makes it our move.

					TROI
			Sir, they may know as little about
			us as we do about them.

					RIKER
			Except that they know they've got
			us in deep trouble.

					PICARD
			If so, the question becomes how
			will they use that knowledge?
				(to Data)
			Is there any hard information on
			them in any file, Data?

					DATA
			None, sir. Only hearsay and
			thirdhand reports, most of which
			conflict.

					RIKER
			Which rumors do not conflict?

					DATA
			That the Ferengi are... well, the
			best description may be "traders."

					PICARD
			What kind of "traders"?

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      9.

14   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			A more accurate comparison modern
			scholars have drawn from Earth
			history cites the ocean-going
			"Yankee Traders" of eighteenth
			and nineteenth century America,
			sir.

					RIKER
			From the history of my forebears?
			"Yankee Traders?"

					DATA
				(nods)
			Who sail, in this case the
			galaxy, in search of mercantile
			and territorial opportunity.

					RIKER
			And are those scholars saying
			the Ferengi may not be too
			different from us?

					DATA
			Hardly, sir. I believe this
			analogy refers to the nefarious
			capitalist manner in which the
			Ferengi are known to conduct their
			affairs of commerce.
				(thought)
			"Never give a sucker an even
			break."

	Picard and Riker exchange puzzled looks.

					PICARD
			And what does that mean, Data?

					DATA
			I'm not sure, sir. That entry was
			only identified as "slang", terms
			or expressions which typify
			everyday language of...

					PICARD
			I know what slang is, Data. I just
			haven't heard of that particular
			saying.

					RIKER
			But "Yankee Traders"...
				(smile)
			I like the sound of that. Has a
			nice historical ring to it.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      10.

14   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
				(impatient)
			Engineering?
				(no answer; to Riker)
			Join La Forge "down below", Number
			One. Without our warp capacity,
			we're just one big floating
			target.

					RIKER
			Aye, sir.

	Riker's OFF to the turbolift, as Picard studies the
	viewer.

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			What other pertinent meaning do
			you draw from this analogy,
			"Yankee Traders?"

					DATA
			Well, I doubt if they wear red,
			white and blue, sir. Or look
			anything like Uncle Sam.

	Except for Picard, Data meets uncomprehending stares.
	(That allusion dates too far back from the twenty-fourth
	century.)

					WORF
			Uncle who?

					TASHA
			What have bright, primal colors
			got to do with it?

					PICARD
			Yes, I understand the allusion.
				(nods)
			Colors that once identified
			nations during the time when they
			competed against each other. Red,
			white and blue for the United
			States...
				(muses)
			Whereas the French oddly used the
			same colors in the order of blue,
			white, and red...

					DATA
			... and the German nation black,
			red and gold; the Italians green,
			white and red; the British...

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      11.

14   CONTINUED: (4)

					PICARD
				(annoyed)
			Enough, Data!

					DATA
			Sir, it was you who...

					PICARD
				(snaps)
			We're discussing the Ferengi,
			Data!
				(slow burn)
			Mon Dieu, I wish I knew what they
			will do next...

					DATA
			Given what is occurring to our
			vessel, Captain, their weapons
			could be vastly superior to ours.

	Picard has to fight off irritation again.

					PICARD
			Yes, Data. That seems a
			reasonable assumption.
				(louder)
			Engineering?!

	But Picard is still without an answer.

14A  INT. ENTERPRISE - ENGINE ROOM

	Riker, Geordi and TWO ENGINEERS anguish over the control
	board.

					RIKER
			Bottom line, La Forge.

					GEORDI
			Not good, sir. The Ferengi
			forcefield that holds this ship
			compensates...
				(taps board)
			Almost as fast as we increase
			power.

					RIKER
			Almost?

	Using his hands as a demonstration, Geordi tries to
	explain the "isometric" problem of the forcefield.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      12.

14A  CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			There's a point-three-hundred,
			seventy-two millisecond delay
			between use of our power and the
			neutralizing counter-force of the
			Ferengi...
				(stumped)
			We push and they push back in
			equal force, sir.

					RIKER
				(idea)
			And what is our acceleration delay
			between slow-reverse impulse and
			top warp speed?

					GEORDI
			Point-three-hundred millisecond.
				(big smile)
			I know what you're thinking. Shift
			down and then blow hard into warp
			nine, yes? Come back fighting,
			whooey!

					RIKER
			Can we do it, Geordi?

					GEORDI
			Ask me after it's done, sir.
				(to Engineers)
			I want a slow reverse-power
			drop-off over five minutes...
				(to Riker)
			We'll show them what this baby
			can do, sir.

					RIKER
			Give me everything you've got.

					GEORDI
			Aye, aye, sir.

	At that, Riker EXITS, as CAMERA TIGHTENS on Geordi.

14B  INT. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard studies the Ferengi vessel, as Riker details the
	plan.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      13.

14B  CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			... and with a sudden, abrupt power
			surge to high warp speed, Captain,
			I believe we can break loose from
			the Ferengi forcefield.

					PICARD
			I wish I knew how they are doing
			this to us.

					RIKER
			I wonder what they're thinking
			over there.

					PICARD
			That's easy. They're wondering
			what we are thinking... and what
			we might do next.

					WORF
			I say fight, sir. There is
			nothing shameful in falling before
			a superior enemy.

	Geordi ENTERS the Bridge from the turbolift.

					PICARD
				(thin smile at Worf)
			And nothing shameful about a
			strategic retreat, either.

					GEORDI
			All systems ready, Captain. And
			communication's restored to
			Engineering.

					PICARD
			Excellent, La Forge.
				(to Riker)
			Let's throw them off guard.
				(turning)
			Lieutenant Yar. Open hailing
			frequencies.

					TASHA
			Hailing frequencies open, sir.

					PICARD
			At least, I won't begin with
			weakness.
					(MORE)

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      14.

14B  CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD (Cont'd)
				(looking up; voice
				 AMPLIFIED)
			Attention Ferengi starship! This
			is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the
			USS Enterprise. In the name of
			the United Federation of Planets,
			I demand you return the T-9 energy
			converter you removed from Gamma
			Tauri IV.
				(to Tasha; normal voice)
			Send in all language forms.

					TASHA
			All language forms, sir.

					PICARD
			Sometimes, Riker, the best way
			to win a fight is not to be there.

					RIKER
			Yes, sir. "He will triumph who
			knows when to fight and when not
			to fight."

					PICARD
			Glad the Academy still teaches
			the strategy of Sun Tzu...
				(to Geordi)
			Let's hope that delay proves out,
			La Forge.

					GEORDI
				(nods)
			Point-three-hundred milliseconds,
			sir.

					PICARD
			We'll blast full power into warp
			nine. Ready?

					GEORDI
			All systems ready, Captain.

					PICARD
			Countdown to three. Stand by on
			phasers.
				(firm)
			One. Set warp to nine.
				(everyone tenses)
			Two. Divert shield power to main
			engines...
				(they brace)
			Three!

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      15.

14B  CONTINUED: (3)

	With the massive jolt of power let go from the combined
	forcefield energy-synergy of the Enterprise, all the
	bridge lights FLARE wildly! But other than a momentary
	tremble, Starfleet's finest remains in place... the
	Ferengi vessel still on the viewer, the planet above.

					PICARD
				(softly)
			Merde.
				(troubled)
			Shields up.

	For a defeated beat, the crew resume their vigil.

14C  ANGLES ON COMPUTER DISPLAYS

	All the computers go crazy, violently ALIVE in a flood
	of flashing information "read!"

14D  BACK TO SCENE

					DATA
			Captain? I think you better see
			this...

					PICARD
				(moving to Data)
			What's wrong?

					DATA
			In my opinion, someone is reading
			every file, every "bit" of
			information stored in the
			Enterprise memory banks...

					GEORDI
				(impressed)
			They can do that?

					DATA
			And more, perhaps.

	A pall of defeat darkens the room.

					PICARD
				(into Com)
			Doctor Crusher to the bridge.
				(to entire bridge)
			Conference evaluation.

	Picard stands and the Main Bridge crew begins to MOVE
	OFF.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      16.

14D  CONTINUED:

					TROI
			If I may recommend something,
			Captain, with our attention on
			the Ferengi vessel, we have
			ignored the planet.

15   ANGLE INCLUDING VIEWER (OPTICAL)

	Picard CROSSING Bridge, checks the Main Viewer on which
	the cloud shrouded planet is prominent, although not
	particularly unusual from this perspective. Picard
	glances there, then:

					PICARD
			Consult the charts on this
			planet, Data. See what we have
			on it in the library.

	Picard leads the way OFF to the Conference Room.

16   INT. CONFERENCE ROOM

	as Picard faces Riker, Beverly, Troi, Geordi, Tasha and
	Worf.

					BEVERLY
			No response on hailing
			frequencies?

					PICARD
			We had no response.
				(including the others)
			So, while we still have some power
			left, it is time for difficult
			decisions.
				(thin smile)
			While we cannot have a democracy
			aboard, I value your considered
			opinions.

	Tasha is the first to look up.

					TASHA
			I say put all available power into
			a full-out combined phaser and
			photon torpedo salvo. Destroy
			their ability to sustain this
			forcefield, sir.

					WORF
			Yes! Hit them hard and hit them
			fast.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      17.

16   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Impractical and provocative.
			Assuming even that we have the
			power to support that tactic.

					TASHA
			But Captain, firing on us was not
			an act of war?

					TROI
			The facts are that the Ferengi
			did fire at us, but we were
			chasing them. Since then, they've
			only searched our computers,
			trying to learn who and what we
			are.

					PICARD
			Your point, Counselor?

					TROI
			Let's talk to them.

					PICARD
			That has been tried; no response.

					TROI
			But did we tell them anything they
			wanted to hear?

	There's not a person present who doesn't know the
	implication of that statement.

					PICARD
			Any other observations?

	Picard waits; there are none.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Thank you all for your advice and
			counsel. Now if you will excuse
			me, I'd like to be left alone with
			Commander Riker.

	All his Officers EXIT the Conference Room, except Riker.

					PICARD
			As my first officer, I assume you
			fully realize our situation.
			Although the final decision must
			be mine, this is your opportunity
			to speak your mind.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      18.

16   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			I believe we have covered all
			available alternatives, Captain,
			but...
				(supportive)
			Are there any other options you
			wish to analyze?

					PICARD
			The only one left needs no
			conversation, Number One. And it
			is the only one we must avoid.

					RIKER
			Sir?

					PICARD
			Total annihilation.

	And Riker nods understandingly, EXITS, leaving Picard
	with the most difficult decision of his Starfleet
	career, perhaps his last....

17   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	All crew are at their stations, expectant -- the Ferengi
	menace still commanding the viewscreen. A beat, then
	Picard ENTERS, going to his chair.

					PICARD
			Open hailing frequencies.

					DATA
			Open, Captain.

					PICARD
				(a pregnant beat)
			Attention, Ferengi starship! This
			is Captain Picard. It is obvious
			we have a situation here that
			needs resolving... And we are
			willing to do whatever is
			reasonable and necessary. I would
			like... I would appreciate...
			your presenting your terms to us.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT ONE      19.

17   CONTINUED:

	The unspeakable spoken, as CAMERA TIGHTENS on Picard's
	grim visage... the return sub-space channel empty save
	for static, as we:

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      20.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

18   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	still locked together with the silent Ferengi starship,
	near the mysterious murky globe.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 41194.8. It
			is with a heavy heart that I have
			offered to meet...

19   EXT. SPACE - CLOSE ON FERENGI STARSHIP (OPTICAL)

	enigmatic, baffling and also immobile.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... whatever reasonable and
			necessary terms are demanded by
			the Ferengi. I fear for my people
			and my vessel in the event the
			unknown Ferengi ask the
			unreasonable. How...

20   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	all waiting to hear from the unknown Ferengi.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... can I oppose even unreasonable
			demands?

					RIKER
			It's moving, sir.

21   ANGLE ON MAIN VIEWER - FERENGI STARSHIP (OPTICAL)

	The snakehead-like prow's pushing out from the ship
	body.

					WORF (V.O.)
			We ask to surrender and now they
			fire on us?

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      21.

22   INTERCUTTING - BRIDGE REGULARS AND MAIN VIEWERS
	(OPTICAL)

	as our Bridge Crew react.

					TASHA
			Ready torpedoes, sir? There's
			enough power for a couple of them.

					PICARD
			Ready. But hold at ready,
			Lieutenant.
				(to Data)
			Open hailing frequencies.

					DATA
			Hailing frequencies open, sir.

	The Ferengi ship now extends gun-like arms from either
	side of the prow...

					PICARD
			Ferengi vessel, we are awaiting
			your response.

	They await an answer, get none.

					TASHA
			Suggest first strike, sir. Our
			shields now only have sixty-three
			seconds of power available before
			lowering.

					WORF
			If the Ferengi ship's sensors can
			read us, sir, they will be waiting
			until we are most vulnerable...

					RIKER
			Captain, I'm afraid I agree.
			Since they haven't bothered to
			answer us...

					PICARD
				(interrupting; quiet
				 voiced)
			I'll wait a bit more, Number One.

	Picard is like an old war dog at work for peace. The
	suspense on the bridge is electric...

					TASHA
			Fifty seconds...

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      22.

22   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Patience. Patience...

	At that moment, the sub-space channel CRACKLES loudly,
	the Ferengi accent alien, clipped, arrogant.

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
			The quicker we can come to terms,
			the better, NCC 1701-D.

	There's no visual sent, but Picard is relieved.

					PICARD
			Who is speaking?

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
			I am Taar. DaiMon of the Ferengi.
			You wished to discuss surrender,
			Captain Picard?

					PICARD
			What I actually said, DaiMon,
			is...

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
				(interrupting)
			UNCONDITIONAL...

	The Bridge reverberates with Taar's booming voice,
	shattering every last hope.

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
				(continuing; a difficult
				 beat)
			... Surrender, I warn you, is...
				(emphatic)
			Totally unacceptable!!
				(desperate but proud)
			We will die to the last one of
			us before such dishonor!

	Nobody can believe their ears! Picard shares a look with
	Riker and Troi, understanding now the incredible thing
	that has happened. Picard turns quickly to Tasha, makes
	a hand/slash signal. In response, Tasha touches her
	panel.

					TASHA
			Hailing frequency off, sir.

	Now WE SEE Picard at his command best as he gives a
	series of orders.

18:[1,#b]
      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      23.

22   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
				(to Riker)
			Something has seized their ship
			too. They're in the same predicament
			as us.
				(to Geordi)
			Launch a sensor probe. Set it
			to search for the source of this
			"something" that's holding us both.
				(to Tasha)
			Back to hailing fequencies, fast.
				(Com technique)
			... and so I regret DaiMon Taar
			that I can no longer negotiate
			unless it is conducted visually.

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
				(beat; concerned)
			Your complete message not
			received, Enterprise. But visual
			communication is against our
			custom.

					PICARD
				(into Com)
			And it is against Starfleet orders
			to accept a surrender otherwise.
			Do you withdraw your surrender
			offer?

	A long delay -- enough time for the Enterprise Crew to
	become nervous. Then:

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
			You give us no choice, Enterprise.
			May we have a visual on you too?

23   EMPHASIZING MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)

	as Picard answers on Com, signaling Troi to set the
	viewscreen accordingly.

					PICARD
				(into Com)
			Agreed, DaiMon Taar. You should
			be able to view us now.
				(waits)
			Do you have us on your screen?

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
			We... are now viewing you.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      24.

24   CLOSE ON MAIN VIEWER

	The MAIN VIEWER FLICKERS and AN IMAGE OF DAIMON TAAR'S
	FERENGI FACE comes into sight -- large, menacing,
	lens-twisted and very brightly lit.

25   WIDER ANGLE ON MAIN BRIDGE

	giving reactions of our principals.

					TAAR'S COM VOICE
			I do not know how your twisted
			alien culture has paralyzed our
			vessel but I concede your
			'Enterprise' is superior.
				(snaps)
			We will return your worthless T-9
			device and we offer the life of
			our second officers as required
			by the Ferengi code.

	The Enterprise crew does not give themselves away with
	cheers, but the relief is evident.

					DATA
			I am relieved we have no such code
			involving our second officers.

					TAAR (V.O.)
			Is this to your satisfaction,
			Picard Captain?

					PICARD
			Your offer may be inadequate, but
			I will discuss it with my staff.
			Stand by for further communications.

	The CRACKLE ends, the Ferengi transmission complete.

26   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	It is a place dominated by a viewing screen which is
	flanked by computer panels. TWO TEEN BOYS are
	inspecting the starship reliefs. They see Picard
	coming, make their hasty EXIT as the bridge personnel
	ENTER... leaving a plaything near the viewscreen, a
	Chinese finger PUZZLE.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      25.

26   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(to the Teens on
				 ENTERING)
			Matthews! Pola! You know this
			area is off-limits.
				(as Boys LEAVE)
			Boys will be boys, Captain.

	Picard gives Riker a withering look at this statement.
	Data and Geordi also ENTER.

					PICARD
				(to Geordi)
			Have you launched the probe?

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir. We'll get readings
			soon.

					PICARD
				(to Geordi)
			If we're not holding the Ferengi
			and they're not holding us... then
			who the hell is?
				(to Data)
			Next, you wanted to show us
			something?

					DATA
			As requested, Captain,
			library-computer information on
			this planet.

27   ANGLE EMPHASIZING DATA AND VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	Data has picked up the finger-puzzle game, plays with it
	abstractly, as:

					DATA
			It has been charted only, from
			long range scans. It is Class
			M, but with no indications of life
			forms, sentient or otherwise.
			However, you may find this of
			interest...

	Data touches a panel and on the screen APPEARS AN IMAGE
	OF A HOLOGRAPHIC STAR MAP with a huge ball of artificial
	connecting lines. An INCOMPREHENSIBLE ALIEN LEGEND
	APPEARS TOO.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      26.

27   CONTINUED:

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Resolving it into our language...

	Data touches a control and an unusual SYMBOL APPEARS,
	together, with the words "TKON EMPIRE."

					PICARD
			A space federation of some sort.
			But I've never heard the word
			"Tkon."

					DATA
				(distracted by stuck
				 finger)
			Understandable. It has been
			extinct six hundred thousand
			of... of our years.
				(back to viewer; back
				 to finger problem)
			According to... legend, these
			planets... were outposts... of that
			empire...

	Data has put his opposing finger from his other hand
	into the open puzzle end... and pulls it tight, trapping
	himself. Another snap or two finds him quite ensnared.

					PICARD
			Data. What are you doing?

					DATA
			Apologies, Captain. I seem to have
			reached an odd functional impass.
			I am, ah...
				(futile tug)
			Stuck.

					PICARD
			Then get unstuck and continue your
			briefing.

					DATA
			Yes, sir. That is what I am trying
			to do...
				(no go again)
			But the solution eludes me.

					GEORDI
				(laughs)
			My hero.

	Picard reaches over, grabs Data's hands in his own and
	pushes in... releasing Data's trapped fingers.

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      27.

27   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Continue, Commander. Now!

					DATA
				(eyeing the puzzle)
			Intriguing.
				(then quickly indicating
				 viewscreen)
			Again, only legend, but it
			describes the Empire as impossibly
			huge and powerful.

					RIKER
				(eyeing viewscreen)
			Surrounded by stars whose planets
			formed its defensive system?

					DATA
			Correct, sir. Outposts. And the
			planet below was possibly one of
			them...

	Interrupted by the Bos'n SIGNAL, followed by:

					TASHA'S COM VOICE
			Excuse the interruption, Captain,
			but this may be worth it. We're
			now receiving a signal from the
			probe.

					PICARD
			We'll take it here, please.

	The VIEWSCREEN FLICKERS, BECOMES AN IMAGE SHOWING
	PLANET, FERENGI VESSEL, AND THE ENTERPRISE. WAVY,
	PULSATING, EERIE-GREEN CURVLINEAR LINES reach up
	mushroom-like from a point on the planet surface -- up
	and around the two space vessels.

					GEORDI
			Incredible!

					RIKER
			That's our mysterious "something,"
			Captain. It is a forcefield of
			some kind...

					PICARD
			Reaching up from the planet
			surface. What enormous power!
				(to Data)
			How does the legend describe the
			end of the Tkon Empire?

      STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT TWO      28.

27   CONTINUED: (3)

					DATA
			By their Sun going supernova, sir.

					PICARD
			Could this planet have escaped
			that?

28   ANOTHER ANGLE

	Data touches the panel and VIEWER IMAGE CHANGES BACK TO
	THE TKON EMPIRE CHART. He indicates a distant one of
	the surrounding stars.

					DATA
			This planet, Gamma Tauri IV,
			could have been the most distant
			outpost, sir, in theory. But
			since it shows no life form readings...

					PICARD
				(to Riker)
			We'll have to look it over, Number
			One. Stand by with an away team.

					RIKER
				(stands)
			And if the Ferengi also realize
			the forcefield emanates from the
			planet, sir?

					PICARD
				(considers it)
			That's a complication. We may
			have to ask them to join us in
			this.

					GEORDI
				(surprised)
			Team up with the Ferengi, sir?

					PICARD
			We were ordered to learn what we
			can about them. Do you know of
			a better way than that?

									FADE OUT:

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     29.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

29   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND FERENGI VESSEL (OPTICAL)

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. In
			orbit of the mysterious planet
			Gamma Tauri IV in the Delphi Ardu
			star system, whose unexplained
			forcefield has seized us with a
			power almost beyond imagination.
			If...

30   INT. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE INCLUDING
	VIEWER (OPTICAL)

	The viewer carries an IMAGE of the planet. The bridge
	crew is tense, awaiting communications with the Ferengi.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... there is a solution to this,
			it almost certainly will involve
			cooperation from the Ferengi...
			a life form which seems as unknown
			and mysterious as the planet we
			orbit.

31   ANGLE INCLUDING TASHA

	as she looks from the panel to the Captain.

					TASHA
			Ship's power drain is critical,
			Captain. I must now shut down
			our shields to maintain life
			support systems.

					PICARD
			Understood, Lieutenant. Open
			hailing frequencies.

					TASHA
				(touching controls)
			Hailing frequencies open, sir.

					PICARD
			Ferengi vessel from Enterprise,
			this is Captain Picard. Come in.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     30.

32   ANGLES INCLUDING VIEWER (OPTICAL)

	as Main Viewer ripples into IMAGE OF THE FACE OF DAIMON
	TAAR again -- and it is still lens-twisted, appearing as
	large and foreboding as before. He looks up at the
	screen and then:

					TAAR
			Your alien images again shock us.

					PICARD
			DaiMon Tarr, regarding your
			surrender to us, the facts are
			somewhat different...

					TAAR
				(interrupting; angrily)
			Our own probe has already shown
			us your trickery, hu-man.
				(emphatic)
			We withdraw our surrender.

	Picard has exchanged a look with Riker. He nods toward
	the viewer:

					PICARD
			Agreed, DaiMon. May this may be
			a far more productive
			relationship.

					TAAR
			I prefer a profitable one, hu-man.

					DATA
				(quietly, toward Picard)
			"Yankee Traders."

					TAAR
				(bristling)
			Explain. What means this
			"yangeetraters"?

					GEORDI
			He heard that?

	Picard gives Data an irritated look, searches for an
	answer.

					PICARD
			It... acknowledges your interest
			in profit, DaiMon Taar. Is that
			an incorrect assumption?

					TAAR
			We seek only what is equitable.
				(angrily)
			What do you seek? Why did you
			begin by attacking us?

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     31.

32   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			We did not attack. We gave chase
			in order to recover a
			Federation-owned energy device
			which...

					TAAR
				(interrupting)
			... which we know is ours. Your
			barbarous Federation chose to
			place it on one of our planets!

					PICARD
			On the contrary, Gamma Tauri IV
			is recognized by all civilized
			members of...

					TAAR
				(outraged)
			The Ferengi are not uncivilized,
			hu-man! Is that what you
			suggest?!

	Picard takes a breath, this is not going well.

					PICARD
			All I am trying to say is you have
			taken a device clearly not your
			own from...

					TAAR
				(incredulous)
			Are you now calling us thieves?!

	Picard shifts to a different tack, to let off Ferengi
	steam.

					PICARD
			Certainly not. And I have no wish
			to argue issues of territory or
			property, when our mutual problem
			remains. Like it or not...
				(firm)
			We are both trapped by the power
			draining forcefield of this
			planet.

					TAAR
				(lets up)
			On that matter, there can be no
			argument.

					PICARD
			Might I propose a swap?

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     32.

32   CONTINUED: (2)

	Taar's face grimaces at the foul-sounding new word.

					TAAR
			And... what is a "szwop"?

					PICARD
			An exchange, a trade...

					TAAR
			Yes, trade, hu-man. What is your
			offer?

	Picard's getting somewhere, and Troi acknowledges the
	progress with a smile to her captain.

					PICARD
			We will give you what we know
			about the planet, and in trade,
			you will give us your information.

					TAAR
			Ridiculous. How will we know you
			have not cheated us?

					PICARD
			We must trust each other, Taar.

	Tarr responds with a grating laugh at this idea.

					TAAR
			Amusing, hu-man. But impractical.

					PICARD
			Then may I propose we both
			cooperate in a joint examination
			of the planet surface?

					TAAR
			And what profit is in this, Picard
			Captain?

					PICARD
			The profit, DaiMon Tarr, lies in
			saving all our lives.

	Taar considers a beat, then answers, a deal being done.

					TAAR
			We will agree to this. But I warn
			you now, any further trickery on
			your part will be met with no
			mercy. Understood?

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     33.

32   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			Understood.
				(onward)
			If you care to join us, we have
			a well-proven transporter
			device which...

					TAAR
			We have a matter-energy device
			of our own. We will beam a
			science team of three to whatever
			coordinates you propose.

					PICARD
			Excellent. We will transmit that
			information shortly. Enterprise
			out.

	Picard nods at Tasha.

					TASHA
			Hailing frequencies off.

	The Main Viewer has returned to an image of the Ferengi
	vessel and the planet.

					PICARD
			I'll log that as "promising," at
			least.

					RIKER
			I wonder, Captain. Ordinarily,
			I don't believe in distrust at
			first sight... but this may be
			an exception.

					DATA
			Especially in view of the fact
			the image he transmitted was
			likely distorted somehow, sir.

					TROI
			I felt the same thing, Captain.
			He was hiding something.

					RIKER
				(stands)
			With this power drain I see no
			reason to delay, sir.
				(looks around)
			I'd like some additional help
			on this. Can you spare Worf?

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     34.

32   CONTINUED: (4)

					PICARD
				(nods)
			Take him. And be careful, Number
			One.

	Riker CROSSES toward the turbolift, FOLLOWED by Data,
	Geordi, Tasha and Worf. Their Bridge positions are
	immediately filled.

33   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

	A strong away team of five: Riker, Data, Tasha, Geordi
	and Worf. All are armed with phasers, including a
	couple of large ones, plus a couple of tricorders. They
	step onto the "pads."

					TRANSPORTER CHIEF
			With this power drain, we may have
			trouble communicating with you,
			sir.

					RIKER
			Understood. Anything else?

					TRANSPORTER CHIEF
				(reluctant)
			Due to this forcefield, there is
			presently no way... to beam you
			back, sir.

					GEORDI
			You had to ask.

					RIKER
			Understood.
				(checking the others,
				 then)
			Energize!

	WE SEE the TRANSPORTER EFFECT.

34   EXT. CLOUDED PLANET - SURFACE

	Dimly lit, a twilight world of overcast, turbulent skies
	hanging heavily over a strange landscape of coral-like
	"trees." LIGHTNING explodes above, as a dull THUNDER
	echoes through this eerie labyrinth.

	In a relatively clear area, Riker suddenly
	materializes... alone! He's woozy, but in one piece.
	He looks around, perplexed, worried.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     35.

34   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Tasha? Data? Geordi? Worf?!

	No answer. Riker scrambles toward a nearby rise,
	through the "forest," and up the incline... reaching the
	top.

35   CLOSE - RIKER

	He surveys the surrounding area, with no luck.

36   RIKER'S POV - PLANET SURFACE

	Landscape. No sign of anything lifelike.

37   BACK TO SCENE

	More THUNDER O.S.

					RIKER
			Anybody?!

					DATA
			Very intriguing, sir.

38   WIDER ANGLE - TO INCLUDE DATA

	atop one of the coral "trees," as the curious android
	examines it.

					RIKER
			What are you doing up there?

					DATA
				(climbs down)
			I assume a problem of program
			coordinates due to the energy
			field around the ship, sir.
				(glances around)
			Are we alone?

					RIKER
			Unfortunately.
				(indicates trees)
			What do you make of these?

					DATA
			Crystalline, quite inert.
			"Nothing to write home about."

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     36.

38   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(delayed take)
			Excuse me?

					DATA
			That is slang, sir.
				(concern)
			I did use it correctly, did I not?

					RIKER
				(why me?)
			Let's find the others...

	And they MOVE OFF.

39   EXT. MORE PLANET SURFACE

	A tangled mass of interlocking "limbs," shimmering in
	the cloudy light. WE HEAR our people before we see
	them.

					RIKER (V.O)
			... they can't be too far.

					DATA (V.O.)
			Actually, the forces responsible
			for this effect would create a
			random...

	As CAMERA ANGLES DOWN, WE SEE Riker crawling under a
	limb, and Data in glimpses just behind him.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			... transporter distribution
			inversely proportional to the
			density of...

					RIKER
			Who's that?

					DATA
			What?

	Riker squats, peering through the forest ahead.

					RIKER
			That!

	Data crawls forward to get a look where Riker is
	pointing.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     37.

40   DATA'S AND RIKER'S POV

	It's Geordi! But he's inverted, limply hanging upside
	down from a higher limb, one foot firmly lodged in a
	crook... and not moving.

					RIKER/DATA (V.O)
			Geordi!

41   BACK TO SCENE

	With difficulty, Riker and Data make their way to their
	hapless crewmember. Geordi is motionless, maybe dead.
	Riker reaches through the tangle.

					RIKER
			Geordi?! Are you conscious?

	A beat, then Geordi smiles. Data runs a tricorder
	nearby.

					GEORDI
			Do I look conscious?

					RIKER
			No. What are you doing?

					GEORDI
			Trying to relax, sir. My foot's
			caught...
				(points up)
			Up there. I materialized upside
			down about ten meters above the
			surface.

					DATA
			Tricorder is useless here, sir.
			Communications are gone, too.

	Riker and Data are now in a position to attempt rescue,
	as they brace Geordi up. THUNDER AND LIGHTNING AGAIN
	O.S.

					DATA
				(continuing; to Geordi)
			It is fortunate you did not break
			anyth...

					GEORDI
			Who's that?!

	At that, both Riker and Data turn to see:

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT THREE     38.

42   POV (OPTICAL)

	Backlit by LIGHTNING, THREE SMALL, HAIRLESS HUMANOIDS
	with protruding cupped ears, dressed in strange
	clothing. They are armed with odd whip-like weapons.

					RIKER (V.O.)
			Who are you?

	At that, the Leader snaps his whip toward them,
	unleashing a rippling electra-plasmic WAVE that races
	TOWARD CAMERA (OPTICAL).

43   CLOSE - OUR TEAM

	Riker, Data and lucky-day Geordi are whacked with the
	WAVE all together... putting Geordi back to sleep. Data
	falls unconscious, too. Riker fights it but is hit
	again, and falls, unconscious.

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     39.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

44   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND FERENGI STARSHIP (OPTICAL)

	United in orbit by the force which still holds them
	helpless.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. It
			is now six hours since our away
			team beamed down to the planet
			surface. On the Enterprise...

45   EXT. SPACE - CLOSE ON ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	showing its LIGHTS DIMMING as unnecessary power is
	conserved.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... our condition is rapidly
			worsening. Ordinarily, with
			reserve power alone, we could
			maintain life support for several
			months. But the force holding
			us...

46   INT. ENTERPRISE - MONTAGE

	Various SHOTS REVEAL the exhausted and weakening crew
	still at their stations... Beverly is struggling to aid
	the stricken. She passes Picard who is doing the same.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... has closed down all engines
			and is draining our reserve power
			too... Equally impossible, our
			oxygen level is also dropping.

47   ANGLE ON TROI

	bringing an armload of silvery thermal blankets onto the
	bridge, distributing. She passes the captain.

					TROI
			It's getting much...
				(stops; out of breath)
			... much colder, sir.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     40.

47   CONTINUED:

	Beverly ENTERS SHOT.

					PICARD
			How far down is it likely to go?

					BEVERLY
			A lot. Even in orbital space it
			gets past minus two hundred
			degrees.

					TROI
			We won't have to worry past...
				(tries to smile)
			... minus seventy or so.

					PICARD
				(shivers)
			Feels like that right now.

48   EXT. PLANET SURFACE - CLOSE ON RIKER

	As he begins groggily coming back to consciousness, a
	small grown HAND WITH BLUE COLORED NAILS roughly rips
	Riker's Starfleet communicator symbol from his uniform.

49   RIKER AND CAPTOR

	Sitting opposite Riker on a crystalline rock is a little
	Ferengi humanoid, LETEK, leader of this group. His eyes
	"dart" around birdlike as he studies the Starfleet
	insignia just taken from Riker. He is fine-boned, small
	-- looking far different and less menacing than the
	image transmitted to the Enterprise Main Viewer.

50   WIDER ANGLE

	Two other Ferengi MOVE INTO SCENE, puffing as they drag
	the heavy weight of Worf into the clearing to be laid
	out alongside Geordi and Data. They are KAYRON and
	MORDOC. At this time, Riker becomes sufficiently
	conscious to groan.

					LETEK
			If he moves, kill him.

					MORDOC
			Letek, has what we've done broken
			our agreement with their captain?

					LETEK
			We will accuse the hu-mans of
			preparing to ambush us. It will
			be our word against theirs and
			who is more trustworthy, Mordoc?

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     41.

51   CLOSE ON LETEK

	Beady-eyed and marginally blind, this dominant Ferengi
	male examines his booty... holding it close-up because
	of Ferengi weak eyesight.

					LETEK
				(to himself)
			Hmmm. Looks like gold...
				(gives it a lick)
			... tastes like gold.

					RIKER (V.O.)
			It is gold!

	The alien leaps back from the unexpected sound, his whip
	immediately in the air, poised to attack! Nearby,
	useless to our crewmembers, are their phasers, insignias
	and tricorders.

52   BACK TO SCENE

	Riker's not going anywhere, having had a taste of the
	Ferengi electronic whip. The alien over Riker, whip
	ready... just as another clap of far-off THUNDER causes
	it to howl and cover its ears in pain, as do the others!

					LETEK
				(soft, low voice)
			Accursed planet! What
			pandemonium!

					RIKER
			Nothing compared to what my
			captain will do...
				(sees he's causing pain;
				 speaks softly)
			... when he learns you've broken
			our landing party agreement.

					LETEK
			What part of the agreement?

	At that, Riker eases himself up, but the alien gestures
	him back down, the "whip" its "suggestion"...

					LETEK
				(continuing)
			You appeared and attacked us.
			Are you one of their assassins?

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     42.

52   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			I am Commander Riker, first
			officer of the USS Enterprise.
			Stop now unless you want our
			vessel to retaliate...

	Upon which, Worf rolls to his feet with a LOUD and
	frightening KLINGON GROWL. The Ferengi immediately clap
	their hands to their ears and Worf goes for the one
	called Mordoc nearest him. But Worf finds he has a
	wildcat on his hands.

53   ANOTHER ANGLE (SPECIAL EFFECT)

	The Ferengi called Kayron moves to aid Worf's opponent,
	lifting his whip to strike, but Data "leaps" from his
	prone position, moving with android speed and ease,
	grabbing him by the wrist and pulling him at arm's
	length off the ground. We HEAR THUNDER again, LOUDER.

54   ANOTHER ANGLE - EMPHASIZING RIKER

	as the Ferengi leader, Letek, makes a move.

					RIKER
			I've got this one!

					DATA
			Careful, Commander, they're much
			stronger than...

	Riker finds out how much stronger -- Letek smashes Riker
	with a savage right-cross which rolls him over twice and
	leaves him completely unconscious.

55   ANOTHER ANGLE

	Data and Worf have their hands full.

					WORF
				(loudly)
			PYGMY CRETINS... !

	Although with hands over his ears, protecting his
	hearing, one of the Ferengi rolls, clamps his legs
	around the huge Klingon and brings him to the ground,
	hard.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     43.

56   ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	The remaining two Ferengi go after Data, one hitting him
	hard and high, the other equally hard and low --
	bringing Data to the ground. Letek scoops up his
	"whip."

					LETEK
			Kill them.

	It sounds no less lethal that the Ferengi says it
	quietly. As the other two scramble for their whips:

					MORDOC
				(hissing quietly)
			Hideous monsters!

	Kayron and Mordoc raise their "whips" to do the job,
	when:

					TASHA (V. O.)
			NOOO-O-O!!

	All three Ferengi wheel around, as:

57   ANGLE WIDENS TO INCLUDE TASHA

	training a major phaser at the hapless Ferengi. The
	small men let their "whips" drop, at Tasha's gesture.

					TASHA
			That's much better, now over
			there...

	Letek and his "men" back off, incredulous, as Mordoc
	points to Tasha.

					MORDOC
			Is this a female?

					KYRON
			A hu-man... female, Letek?

	The Ferengi are handling this with all the astonishment
	of seeing man-eating tigers. The Ferengi squint
	leeringly at Tasha.

					LETEK
				(to Riker)
			Then it is true. You work with
			females, arm them, and force them
			to wear clothing?

					MORDOC
			How sickening.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     44.

58   EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Nearly dark, as the lights weakly radiate. Beyond, the
	Ferengi vessel is slightly better lit.

59   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard comforts a crewmember, then CROSSES to Beverly.
	They're both very cold and weak, GASP OUT their words.

					BEVERLY
			I should visit... the family
			decks...again...

					PICARD
				(shakes head)
			I've diverted... all reserve...
			power there. They'll... last
			longest.
				(looks around)
			Is there anything else we can do,
			Doctor?

	Beverly shakes her head. Then Picard remembers
	something.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Where is... your son Wesley?

					BEVERLY
				(beat)
			I gave him... something. He'll
			have a... terrible headache if we
			live.

					PICARD
			You shouldn't have.

					BEVERLY
			Shouldn't have?
				(weak but outraged)
			He's my son. I love him...

					PICARD
			He has the... right to meet...
			death awake.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     45.

59   CONTINUED:

	Beverly eyes Picard for a long moment before she answers
	with a nod.

					BEVERLY
			That is... a male perspective!

	From deep in his thermal blankets, Picard makes a
	MUFFLED SOUND.

					BEVERLY
				(continuing)
			What?
				(beat; louder)
			What did you say, Jean-Luc?

					PICARD
			I said... rubbish!

60   EXT. PLANET SURFACE

	The Ferengi are clearly unafraid of the larger humans
	and Tasha has had to be alert with her phaser to keep
	them in place. But now the Ferengi have evolved a plan.
	It begins with Letek seeming asleep -- the other two
	suddenly striding OFF. Tasha brings her phaser up:

					TASHA
			Stop! Hold it right there!

61   ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	The two Ferengi are ignoring Tasha. (We're also now
	HEARING the mysterious THUNDER SOUND nearer and LOUDER.)

					RIKER
			Set for stun!

					TASHA
				(nods)
			Already set.

	In b.g. WE SEE Letek suddenly moving for his "whip"
	device as a baffled Tasha sends out a PHASER EFFECT
	which heads straight for the Ferengi but then ARCS IN
	A CURVE AND ENCIRCLES THE LARGEST NEARBY CORAL TREE.

					TASHA
			What is going on?!

67:[1,#b]
     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     46.

62   ANGLE EMPHASIZING LETEK

	With the attention of the human on the phaser, Letek
	snatches up his "whip" device and SNAPS it toward the
	humans. They turn in time to the WHIP EFFECT HEADED
	IN THEIR DIRECTION -- BUT LIKE THE PHASER EFFECT IT
	CURVES TOWARD THE "CORAL" TREE AND DISSIPATES THERE.

					LETEK
			What is this?!

63   ANGLE ON HUMANS AND FERENGI

	Neither side is certain what to do next.

					DATA
			How intriguing.
				(to Humans and Ferengi)
			I believe we can deduce these
			crystalline tree-shapes to be
			energy collectors.

					RIKER
				(nods)
			Along the same principle that is
			draining energy from our ships.

					GEORDI
			But the Ferengi weapons were
			working when we arrived here...

					TASHA
			Which means something new has
			happened...

	Interrupted by a BLAST OF THUNDER. Then more of the
	strange THUNDER, CLOSER, STILL LOUDER. Pressing hands
	over ears, the Ferengi are in agony. Geordi reacts at
	something o.s., points.

					GEORDI
			Commander!

64   ANGLE ON TKON OBJECT (OPTICAL)

	A SPINNING, CLEAR CRYSTALLINE SHAPE, GIVING OFF RAINBOW
	HUES as it MOVES INTO SCENE with the Humans and the
	Ferengi, stopping there. Then, HALF-VOICE AND
	HALF-THUNDER RUMBLE:

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FOUR     47.

64   CONTINUED:

					PORTAL FIGURE
			BE YOU BARBARIANS?! SPEAK!

	But its defiant inquiry is met by silence from all, as
	we:

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE     48.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

65   EXT. PLANET SURFACE - ANGLE ON PORTAL EFFECT (OPTICAL)

	continuing from ACT FOUR FADE OUT. Both humans and
	Ferengi astonished at the SPINNING, CLEAR CRYSTALLINE
	SHAPE WHICH GIVES OFF RAINBOW HUES AND THE SOUND OF
	THUNDER RUMBLING.

					PORTAL
			WHO MEETS THE CHALLENGE?

66   ANGLE ON GEORDI AND RIKER

	Geordi concentrating on the spinning SHAPE, then turning
	quickly to Riker.

					GEORDI
			I'm beginning to understand
			what...
				(touches VISOR)
			... these "eyes" have been showing
			me. Patterns of force everywhere.
			This entire planet has been made
			into... well, a power accumulator.

					RIKER
				(indicating crystalline
				 shape)
			And that?

					GEORDI
			... is the whole point of this
			place. I can "see" the planet's
			power emanating from...

67   WIDER ANGLE - INCLUDING SPINNING SHAPE (OPTICAL)

	as again they HEAR the HALF-VOICE, HALF-THUNDER SOUND:

					PORTAL
			WHO WILL IT BE?

	Nobody's volunteering. Letek looks to Riker, then to
	his Ferengi cohorts. A beat, then Letek takes the
	plunge...

					LETEK
			Riker.

     STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE     49.

67   CONTINUED:

					PORTAL
				(to Riker)
			YOU HAVE AWAKENED PORTAL
			SIX-THREE. DO YOU PETITION TO
			ENTER THE EMPIRE?

	The Ferengi are still protecting their ears. Riker
	decides to answer.

					RIKER
			Who asks the question?

68   ANGLE ON PORTAL EFFECT (OPTICAL)

	With the LOUDEST SOUND OF ALL, A THUNDER CLAP AND
	EXTENDED CRACKLING which cues ACCELERATED SPINNING to
	where the CRYSTALLINE SHAPE BECOMES FUZZY AND DISSOLVES
	INTO A TALL, THIN, AGED (make-up effect) HUMANOID FIGURE
	(PORTAL) IN A FINE LONG ROBE.

					PORTAL
				(echo effect)
			I AM THE PORTAL, GUARDIAN OF THE
			TKON EMPIRE.

69   ANGLE ON FERENGI

	reacting, taking their hands from their ears as the
	SOUND FADES away.

70   ANGLE ON HUMANS

	reacting.

					RIKER
			Why should we petition for entry
			to an empire that no longer
			exists?

71   APPROPRIATE ANGLES - PER ACTION

	The Portal Figure examines the others, then looks down
	at itself. It speaks now in a NORMAL VOICE but with a
	slight ECHO-CHAMBER holdover.

					PORTAL
			Biped...extraordinary.
				(looks up)
			Why do you attempt deception?
			The empire is forever.

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         50.

71   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Your empire fell prey to a
			supernova...

	At that, the Portal Figure scans the cloudy sky above,
	concerned but wary of trickery.

					PORTAL
			Nonsense!

					RIKER
			Data. Please repeat the file...

					DATA
			It is a matter of record, Portal,
			in the Age of Makto, the central
			star of the Tkon Empire
			destabilized and...

					PORTAL
				(interrupts)
			But the Age of Makto is an eon
			in the future to come...

					DATA
				(interrupts back)
			In fact, there have been many ages
			which have come and passed since
			Makto...

					PORTAL
				(and back again)
			This is the Age of Bastu!

					DATA
				(relentless)
			I am afraid not, as by the Tkon
			use of galactic motionary startime
			charts, after Bastu, there has
			been Cimi, Xora, Makto, Ozari,
			Fendor...

					PORTAL
				(enraged)
			ENOUGH!
				(thunder clap)
			This is absurd! That is over seven
			baktun of time! How can this be?

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         51.

71   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			You must have been asleep,
			Portal, for hundreds of
			thousands of our years...

	Letek steps forward, acting polite and humble. He
	indicates Riker and the other humans.

					LETEK
			Deception is the way of these
			hu-mans. We Ferengi will gladly
			make a petition.

	The away team members react, but Riker motions them into
	silence.

					RIKER
				(to Portal)
			We invite their petition.

	Both Geordi and Data smile at what they perceive is
	Riker's tactic.

					DATA
			Excellent idea, sir.

					GEORDI
			I can't wait to hear it...

	The Portal Figure makes a strange gesture to the humans,
	in deep concentration, then turns to Letek.

					PORTAL
			Speak.

	Letek thinks fast; this has happened almost too rapidly.

					LETEK
			We... our petition is that we be
			allowed to... serve the Tkon
			Empire...
				(decides to add)
			... at no profit! Return control
			of our starship to us and we will
			happily destroy both the hu-man
			criminals and their vessel which
			attacked us without provocation.
				(too eager)
			They came to loot your empire,
			but we intercepted them!

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         52.

71   CONTINUED: (3)

	The away team is desperate for Riker to make an answer
	to this but he remains silent, awaiting the Portal
	Figure's answer. Again the Portal gestures, but this
	time to the Ferengi, then he turns back to Riker.

					PORTAL
			You have attempted deceit. Next
			you cannot answer these accusations.
			Do you give yourself up for
			judgment?

					RIKER
				(beat; considering this)
			Yes. If you believe those
			accusations, you should act on
			them.

	The other away team members are shocked at Riker's
	answer. Before the Portal can answer, Letek decides
	to go for the "kill."

					LETEK
			And there is even more! We can
			prove the hu-mans are destroyers
			of legal commerce ... also that
			they selfishly withhold vital
			technology from backward worlds...

					MORDOC
				(jumping in)
			... and necessary defensive
			weapons, too. We Ferengi are now
			challenge this hu-man madness...

					RIKER
			I admit we restrict advanced
			technology to all...

					KAYRON
				(in chorus)
			You see! They are demented; their
			values are insane. You cannot
			believe the business opportunities
			they destroy...

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         53.

71   CONTINUED: (4)

					LETEK
				(exhibiting the
				 Starfleet insignias
				 taken)
			Proof of their barbarism -- they
			adorn themselves with gold, a
			despicable use of rare metal...
				(indicates Tasha)
			And they shamelessly clothe their
			females...

					MORDOC
				(leering at Tasha)
			Inviting others to unclothe
			them... the very depth of
			perversion...

	Mordoc reaches for a pawhold on Tasha's uniform in
	disgust. But Tasha angles and parries his thrust, at
	the ready.

					TASHA
			Paws off, Ferengi.

					MORDOC
			No female, hu-man or Ferengi, can
			order Mordoc around! Submit!

					TASHA
				(moves toward Mordoc;
				 deadly)
			Just try it, shorty.

					RIKER
				(warning)
			At ease, Lieutenant!

					GEORDI
				(to Ferengi)
			I wouldn't mess with Lieutenant
			Yar if I were you...
				(to Riker)
			But maybe they'd like to find out
			the hard way, eh, Number One?

					RIKER
			Seems their style.
				(to Portal)
			Would you like to hear more?

					PORTAL
			If you desire.

	Riker gestures to Data, who willingly obliges.

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         54.

71   CONTINUED: (5)

					DATA
				(nods)
			They should add also that
			Starfleet has refused to prevent
			several civilizations from
			falling; we have sometimes let
			the violent and strong overcome
			the weak...

					LETEK
				(to Portal)
			They admit their crimes! Hear
			them; they admit the evil which
			they... !

	Interrupted by a ROLLING THUNDER SOUND.

72   ANGLE ON PORTAL FIGURE (OPTICAL)

	as the Figure seems a bit younger, better muscled, the
	robe shorter and more practical, with a large, lethal
	appearing scimitar-like weapon in hand. It turns to
	Riker, its voice now carrying a hint of ROLLING THUNDER
	again.

					PORTAL
			BARBARIAN!

					LETEK
			Yes, you show wisdom...

					PORTAL
				(interrupting; indicates
				 the Ferengi, too)
			BARBARIANS, ALL!
				(indicates Riker with
				 sword)
			But this one first. In the
			fashion the Empire has always
			challenged savages...

73   EMPHASIZING WORF AND TASHA (OPTICAL)

	jumping forward.

					WORF
			No! For battle, come to me...

	A flash of BLUE LIGHT with LIGHTNING BOLT SOUND hurls
	Worf violently back, rolling to a stop unconscious.
	Tasha wisely stops, then goes to Worf's assistance.

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         55.

74   EMPHASIZING RIKER AND PORTAL FIGURE

	as the Figure takes a fighting stance.

					PORTAL
				(mixed-THUNDER)
			You have a single chance for life.
			One only. What is the answer to
			my challenge?

					RIKER
				(facing Portal Figure,
				 unmoving)
			There is more! Self-determination
			of all peoples...

	Again, the Portal makes a strange gesture to Riker, in
	deep concentration.

					PORTAL
				(interrupting)
			You are being tested, Riker! WHAT
			IS THE ANSWER?

	Riker looks up sharply, puzzled at this.

					RIKER
			How do you know my name?

	The Portal Figure suddenly rushes at Riker, scimitar
	held high... an earth-shattering SHRIEK. Riker stands
	fast as:

75   CLOSE ON RIKER AND PORTAL FIGURE

	Portal cuts through the air in an unstoppable overhead
	sweep... Then, the ugly looking weapon stops a couple
	millimeters from Riker's head! Riker remains
	motionless, even calm, serene...

					PORTAL
			Ahhh. You are of immovable mind,
			Riker. One totally committed to
			facing any fate with composure...
				(sword still up)
			But what is the answer to my
			challenge?

	All the away team members hold their breath. Riker
	remains quietly at ease. Is he taking too long?

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         56.

75   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Fear is the true enemy, the only
			enemy.

	Portal tosses his weapon aside.

					PORTAL
			You are a noble being. And unlike
			these little ones who close their
			minds, your mind holds interesting
			thoughts.
				(quoting)
			"Know your enemy and know
			yourself, and victory will always
			be yours." Why that thought? And
			who is this "Sun Tzu" you revere?

					RIKER
			An old Chinese philosopher from
			ancient Earth history...

					PORTAL
			You must tell me more of this
			wisdom so much like our own.

					RIKER
			Gladly. First, our starship. Can
			you release it?

					PORTAL
				(nods)
			It is released.
				(looks upward, nods)
			All power is restored.

76   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	suddenly freed, the LIGHTS back up to full strength!

77   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	as all power is restored, the bridge lights and a/c
	return to norm, not a lot too late. The crew begin to
	stir. Picard gets to his feet fast, but weakly.

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         57.

78   CLOSE ON PICARD

	opens his eyes, taking in a deep, fresh breath. He
	looks around. Beverly ENTERS SHOT.

					BEVERLY
			Not a hell of a lot too soon,
			Jean...Captain.

79   EXT. PLANET SURFACE - VARIOUS ANGLES

	with the Ferengi showing concerned expressions.

					PORTAL
				(to Riker)
			I admit I had my doubts as your
			ships battled each other...

					LETEK
			They tried to kill us!

					PORTAL
				(ignores him)
			In overt acts of belligerance.
			Normally, I would have destroyed
			all of you and your ships, but
			something confused me.

					RIKER
			Which was?

					PORTAL
			First you wanted to murder each
			other, then you were willing to
			help each other.

	Letek's not one to be ignored, roughly forcing himself
	in front of Riker, his cohorts nearby.

					LETEK
			What of our vessel? We knew the
			same answer...

					MORDOC
			The truth is I gave those words
			to this hu-man.

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         58.

79   CONTINUED:

					PORTAL
				(to Riker)
			What of them? Shall I destroy
			them?

					RIKER
			Then they would learn nothing.

					PORTAL
			Admirable conclusion. But what
			makes you think they will ever
			learn, Riker?

					RIKER
				(beat)
			Is this a test also?

	The Ferengi start to intrude again, but the Portal
	quickly silences them with a deadly wave of his hand.

					PORTAL
			In life, one is always tested.

					RIKER
			I find them very much as we were
			a few hundred years ago... but
			with the technology we have now.
			They're very dangerous...

					KAYRON
				(can't help the lie)
			Untrue! We seek friendship with
			you...

					RIKER
				(unhearing; to Portal)
			But we can hardly hate what we
			once were. They may grow and
			learn...

					PORTAL
			... And learn ways of destroying
			you.

					RIKER
			Our values require us to face that
			possibility. What of you? With
			your empire gone... ?

					PORTAL
			Even without the empire, the
			uncivilized must be tested.
				(sadly)
			I shall sleep... until needed
			again.

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         59.

80   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND FERENGI SHIP

	Both vessels with power up.

81   INT. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING GEORDI ANDD
	DATA

	ENTERING from the turbolift. Troi, CROSSING in from the
	Ready Room, intercepts them.

					TROI
			What happened?

					DATA
			Something to write home about.

					GEORDI
			"Something to write home about?"
			Data, that's very human.

	Data is very pleased at that. Meanwhile, Riker has
	ARRIVED, CROSSES to the Command Area.

82   EMPHASIZING PICARD

	as Riker joins him.

					RIKER
			The T-9 energy converter was
			beamed aboard and secured, sir.

					PICARD
			I commend your performance, Number
			One.

	Data has also returned to his forward "Ops" station,
	carefully placing his finger puzzle above his console.

					RIKER
			I do have a request, sir.

83   CLOSE ON RIKER

	A wicked thought.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			Permission to beam a box of Data's
			Chinese finger puzzles over to
			the Ferengi.
				(postscript)
			A "thank you" for all they tried
			to do.

          STAR TREK: "The Last Outpost" - 8/7/87 - ACT FIVE         60.

84   CLOSE ON PICARD

					PICARD
				(smiles)
			Make it so.

85   EXT. ENTERPRISE AND FERENGI STARSHIP (OPTICAL)

	as both angle, and in opposite directions, WARP OUT AND
	AWAY from the mysterious, clouded planet - the "last
	outpost" of the once-mighty Empire of Tkon, as CAMERA
	MOVES IN on our starship, which QUICKLY RECEDES FROM
	CAMERA into a DOT OF LIGHT as we:

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         
                            THE END