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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Child"
#40272-127
Based on a Premise by
Jaron Summers
and
Jon Povill
Teleplay by
Maurice Hurley
Directed by
Rob Bowman
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 1988 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
3RD REV. FINAL DRAFT
SEPTEMBER 20, 1988
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Child"
CAST
PICARD HESTER DEALT
RIKER
DATA
PULASKI Voice-Over
TROI REPULSE VOICE
GEORDI
WORF
WESLEY
GUINAN
CREWMEMBER
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
TEACHER (MISS GLADSTONE)
IAN (BABY)
IAN (AGE THREE)
IAN (AGE EIGHT)
Non-Speaking
CREWMEMBERS
MEDICAL ASSISTANTS
SECURITY TEAM
GROUP OF KIDS
Voice-Over
SICKBAY VOICE
COMPUTER VOICE
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Child"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
SHUTTLE BAY
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM DOOR USS REPULSE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE 'AUCDET NINE
MAIN ENGINEERING
CORRIDOR
ANOTHER CORRIDOR
CREWMEMBERS' QUARTERS
TROI'S QUARTERS
CARGO DECK FIVE
TEN-FORWARD
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
CARGO HOLD FIVE
DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE
SICKBAY - MATERNITY
CORRIDOR -
ENTRANCE TO SICKBAY
CORRIDOR -
ENTRANCE TO TROI'S QUARTERS
CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA
TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Child"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
'AUCDET NINE O-det Nine
GUINAN GUY-nun
RACHELIS Ra-CHEL-is
DELOVIAN SOUFFLE Del-O-ve-an
MAREUVIAN TEA Ma-RU-ve-an
THEASIAN TEA Thee-A-see-an
PROMETHEUS Pro-ME-thee-us
ALGORITHMS AL-gor-i-thums
HEURISTICS Hur-ISS-tics
VOILA Vwa-LA
CYANOACRYLATES Si-a-no-AK-re-lates
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Child"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND THE USS REPULSE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise has rendezvoused with the other
Federation ship near the spectacularly beautiful binary
system -- Alvacorn Major.
1A INT. ENTERPRISE - SHUTTLE BAY (OPTICAL)
The shuttlecraft leaves the Enterprise for the USS
Repulse.
2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard is not on the bridge. RIKER has the command
chair - DATA is at Science Station, WESLEY is at Conn
-WORF is at Tactical. The other positions are filled
by n.d. crewmembers. Riker watches the Main Viewer as
the shuttlecraft closes with the Repulse.
RIKER
(to Worf)
Open hailing frequencies.
WORF
Hailing frequencies opened.
RIKER
Repulse, this is the Enterprise.
We are getting underway.
REPULSE VOICE
Acknowledged, Enterprise.
Transfer complete -- good luck on
your mission.
RIKER
And to you.
REPULSE VOICE
Give my regards to your captain.
Repulse out.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
The Shuttle Bay is secure.
RIKER
Thank you Mister Crusher. Make
all preparations to get underway.
3 OMITTED
4 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM (OPTICAL)
Picard is there with GEORDI. Geordi is showing Picard
the plans for a device he is proposing to build.
GEORDI
We will construct this large
enclosure on Cargo Deck Five.
The door CHIME SOUNDS.
PICARD
Come.
Riker enters and makes his report.
RIKER
The transfer is complete. Doctor
Pulaski is being shown to her
quarters. We are ready to get
underway.
PICARD
Very good. Take a look at the
containment module our new chief
engineer has designed.
Riker steps over.
RIKER
"Chief engineer," that has a nice
ring to it.
GEORDI
It does to me.
(then to business)
Each will have total atmospheric
control... temperature, radiation,
light, humidity, plus electrical
spectrums.
RIKER
And these are put into the large
containment area?
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 3.
4 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Yes, these modules will keep the
specimens alive -- the large
containment area will keep us
alive. Now, I have to go and
replicate this five hundred and
twelve times. This will mean
it will be necessary to divert
power from the warp engines to
the replicator.
PICARD
How long will we be on impulse
power?
GEORDI
For a few hours, but it can't be
helped.
Picard nods.
RIKER
When we leave 'aucdet Nine - I'm
going to want all the power you
can slam into those warp engines.
GEORDI
You'll have it.
Geordi exits.
PICARD
I will relieve you at zero three
zero zero.
Riker acknowledges and leaves.
5 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
as Riker walks back onto the bridge.
RIKER
Take us out of orbit, Mister
Crusher -- set course for 'aucdet
Nine.
WESLEY
Aye, sir. Course for 'aucdet Nine
has been input.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 4.
5 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Maximum impulse velocity.
WESLEY
Aye, sir.
RIKER
Engage.
6 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it makes a slow graceful turn.
7 EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise starts as a dot in the distance -- quickly
approaches at impulse speed and makes a close passby.
After a beat, a heretofore unseen speck begins to glow,
then moves -- chasing after the starship.
8 EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
as the glowing ENERGY closes on the Enterprise. It
catches the ship and approaches from the rear -- going
between the warp engines.
9 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Minimal crew. Data is at the Science Station studying
the display screen.
DATA
Engineering -- this is Science One.
I just observed what appeared to
be a random energy transference.
10 INT. CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE
Geordi is working at the panel on the far wall.
GEORDI
Where?
DATA'S COM VOICE
Aft. Outboard of the port
nacelle.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 5.
10 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Hold on -- I'll check.
10A INT. MAIN ENGINEERING
Geordi moves to the center console.
GEORDI
No -- I show nothing here, Data.
11 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Data is not satisfied and continues running checks.
RIKER
Problem, Commander?
DATA
Possibly. An unexplained power
fluctuation.
RIKER
Let me know if it reoccurs.
12 EXT. SPACE - CLOSE ON THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ball of light moves closer to the Enterprise. It
slides along the skin of the ship; then, without damage
to the hull, the ball goes inside.
13 INT. CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)
The corridor is empty. If there were nighttime in
space, this would be it. The ship is quiet. The
little glow of energy emerges. It pauses as though
getting its bearings, then cautiously moves off.
14 INT. CORRIDOR - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
We FOLLOW the glow as it continues along. The
turbolift doors open and TWO CREWMEMBERS exit. The
glow blends into the corridor wall and neither
crewmember sees it. The glow falls in behind them as
they pass.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 6.
15 INT. CORRIDOR - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
At an intersection the crewmembers turn left. The
energy again pauses, then continues straight ahead
resuming its journey - or is it a search? The energy
exits up through the overhead.
15A OMITTED
16 INT. CREWMEMBERS' QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
The energy enters. It pauses over the sleeping form of
one of the male crewmembers... then moves away.
17 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
The energy enters the room, passing effortlessly
through the closed door. It pauses -- again getting its
bearings. It has a definite sense of purpose as it
moves slowly toward the sleeping form on the far side
of the room.
18 ANOTHER ANGLE - THE BED (OPTICAL)
We recognize COUNSELOR DEANNA TROI. The energy pauses
by her head, then LEAVES THE FRAME as it moves down her
body. We HOLD on Troi's face. After a beat she turns
-- the restless movements of a tortured dream... sweat
beads up on her forehead, SUDDENLY she wakes. For a
moment she does not move -- then she looks around the
room for the "person" (lover) she knows must be there.
There is no one. The room is empty. But she knows
that someone or something has been there and that she
will never be the same again.
Off her look of concern... and fear... we:
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 7.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
19 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it continues along at impulse speed.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, Stardate 42073.1.
There has been an outbreak of a
yet unclassified Plasma Plague
in the densely populated Rachelis
system. We are on an emergency
run to a Federation Research
station on 'aucdet Nine, where
specimens of Plasma Plague are
kept. We will then transport that
deadly cargo to Science Station
Tango Sierra, where hopefully an
antidote can be manufactured.
Every hour we delay, thousands
die.
20 OMITTED
20A INT. CARGO DECK FIVE
In the center of the huge cargo bay, a crewmember is
assembling a very large containment area which will
hold the five hundred and twelve modules.
GEORDI
How's it going?
CREWMEMBER
Finished, just waiting to insert
the modules.
21 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard comes out of his Ready Room:
PICARD
Number One.
RIKER
Lieutenant La Forge says we will
be able to engage the warp drive
within the hour.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 8.
21 CONTINUED:
Picard nods an acknowledgement as he takes his seat.
PICARD
Mister Data, when we receive a
complete list of all the specimens
we will be carrying, I want you
and Doctor Pulaski to go through
it... by the way. Where is our
new doctor? Has she reported in?
RIKER
Not yet.
Picard is obviously irritated by the breach in
procedure.
PICARD
Sickbay, this is the captain.
SICKBAY VOICE
Sickbay, aye.
PICARD
Is Doctor Pulaski there?
SICKBAY VOICE
(slight hesitation)
Ah... no, Sir. The doctor is in
Ten-Forward.
PICARD
What?!
(surprised, then
annoyed)
A few hours on board and she's
already found Ten-Forward.
Riker starts to rise.
RIKER
I'll go and get her.
PICARD
No, Number One. I'll go.
Picard rises and strides toward the turbolift.
WORF
Not the best way to meet your new
captain.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 9.
22 INT. CORRIDOR
As Picard exits the turbolift, he encounters Wesley.
WESLEY
Hello, Captain.
PICARD
(a greeting)
Ensign Crusher.
Picard continues to stride purposefully down the
corridor with Wesley a few steps behind trying to keep
up.
PICARD
I'm sorry this mission will delay
your reunion with your mother.
WESLEY
It's all right. I can use the
time to finish some projects.
PICARD
(dismissive)
We shouldn't be more than a week
or so.
Wesley wants to continue the conversation.
WESLEY
It is going to be hard to leave
the Enterprise...
PICARD
Mixed feelings for all of us.
Picard glances back and sees the look of sadness in the
young man's eyes.
PICARD
(continuing)
It's always difficult leaving any
ship, as it was for your mother
when she left to become head of
Starfleet Medical. But going
from one assignment to another
is part of the life which you are
choosing.
WESLEY
Yes, but this isn't "any" ship.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 10.
22 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Truly.
Wesley stops and watches Picard continue to
Ten-Forward. The sadness remains in the young man's
eyes.
23 INT. TEN-FORWARD
As Picard enters he crosses with a CREWMEMBER. The
crewmember's reaction tells us very clearly that Picard
is not a frequent visitor to Ten-Forward. We FOLLOW
Picard as he walks over to the BARTENDER. This is the
first time we get to see this wonderful room.
24 ANOTHER ANGLE - PICARD AT BAR
GUINAN is behind the bar.
PICARD
(greets her)
Guinan.
She nods a greeting.
GUINAN
Captain.
PICARD
Where's Doctor Pulaski?
With a hand motion, Guinan indicates a table.
25 ANOTHER ANGLE
as Picard approaches one of the tables. We can see
that DOCTOR KATHERINE PULASKI is talking with someone,
but we cannot see with whom. Picard strides
purposefully up. Clearly his ire is up.
PICARD
Doctor Katherine Pulaski?
Pulaski looks up.
PULASKI
Ah... you must be Captain
Picard...
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 11.
25 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Doctor -- protocol on your last
assignment might have been lax,
but here on the Enterprise...
PULASKI
(she abruptly cuts him
off)
Sit down, Captain. You better
listen to this.
26 ANOTHER ANGLE - TABLE
We now see that the doctor is with Troi. Picard and
Troi exchange looks. Picard senses trouble and moves
a step closer.
27 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL)
Riker, Data, and Worf have assembled. Picard enters
with Doctor Pulaski and Troi. As he walks briskly
toward his seat.
PICARD
(he touches his
communicator)
Lieutenant La Forge, status
report.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
The containment area is completed,
the last of the modules are being
inserted.
PICARD
Take us to warp six as soon as
possible.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
Picard takes his seat and moves on to other -- equally
urgent business.
PICARD
This is Doctor Katherine Pulaski.
We will handle the formal
introduction later.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 12.
27 CONTINUED:
The SUBTLE APPRAISALS, the doctor of the crew and the
crew of the new doctor, are cut short as Picard takes
his seat and announces.
PICARD
(continuing)
Counselor Deanna Troi is
pregnant.
The reactions of the crew. During what follows we
will INTERCUT the reactions of everyone. These will
change as each new piece of information is revealed.
Data, almost in awe. Life, any life, is amazing to
him. Riker glances over at Troi and thinks however
briefly of what might have been. Worf -- suspicious,
distrustful.
RIKER
A baby!
Worf is noncommittal, Data curious. Riker surprised,
and the question is clearly on his mind (whose baby?).
RIKER
(continuing)
This is a surprise.
TROI
More so for me.
Before Riker can react to that statement, Pulaski takes
control of the meeting.
PULASKI
This pregnancy is unlike anything
I have ever encountered. Since
she came to me a few hours ago,
I have made two complete
examinations of Counselor Troi.
She activates the wall viewer on which appears the
sonic representation of a healthy, humanoid fetus.
PULASKI
(continuing)
This is from the first
examination. The fetus is about
halfway through the first
trimester -- about six weeks old.
Understand, we...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 13.
27 CONTINUED: (2)
PULASKI (Cont'd)
(indicating herself and
Troi)
... believe conception occurred
about eleven hours ago.
RIKER
What?
PULASKI
It gets better.
The screen changes.
PULASKI
(continuing)
The second exam, an hour later
was consistent, except for the
fact that the fetus "appeared"
to be several weeks older.
She steps away from the screen.
PULASKI
(continuing)
At this growth rate, Counselor
Troi will have her baby within
the next thirty-six hours. The
normal gestation for a Betazoid
is ten months.
For a beat, the group is in stunned silence.
RIKER
I do not mean to be indelicate,
but...
(pause)
... who's the father?
TROI
Last night, while I slept...
something... which I can only
describe it as a presence, entered
my body.
Troi turns and looks at the image of the fetus.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 14.
27 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
A life-form of unknown origin
and intent is breeding right now
inside Counselor Troi. Our
purpose here is to determine what
is to be done about this very
"unusual" situation. Discussion.
RIKER
Let me get this straight -- Deanna
was impregnated by... by what?
(to Pulaski)
Doctor, what do your tests show?
Is it a humanoid? An alien?
She stands, goes to the display screen and activates
it.
PULASKI
It's a male human... or in this
case half-human -- half-Betazoid.
RIKER
Exactly the same as Deanna!
PULASKI
In every way. There is no
indication from any of my tests
of any other genetic patterns
except hers.
28 TROI
We HOLD on Troi as she continues to watch the child
moving inside her. The discussion fades from her
consciousness.
RIKER
I don't think this is a random
occurrence. There is a purpose
here -- a reason. What, I don't
know.
WORF
Captain, obviously the pregnancy
must be terminated.
RIKER
Why?
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 15.
28 CONTINUED:
WORF
For the safety of the ship and
crew.
Troi stares at the moving fetus on the viewscreen.
Seeing it, alive, helpless, touches other emotions.
However it was conceived, it is hers. She does not
completely lose her uncertainty and apprehension, but
other, stronger instincts begin to emerge.
RIKER
Worf, you can't assume its intent
is belligerent.
WORF
That is my safest assumption.
DATA
Captain, this is a life-form.
Not to allow it to develop
naturally would deny us the
opportunity to study it.
WORF
If the fetus is aborted,
laboratory analysis is still
possible.
RIKER
Is there any health risk to
Counselor Troi if the fetus is
aborted?
PULASKI
Medically, no.
PICARD
Doctor, is that your
recommendation?
As the words swirl around her, she knows in her
Betazoid heart that the child must be born, and she
makes her decision. Troi gets everyone's attention.
TROI
Captain, do whatever you feel is
necessary to protect the ship and
the crew... but know this. I am
going to have this baby.
Everyone reacts, then:
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 16.
28 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
I believe that ends the
discussion.
29 OMITTED
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 17.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
30 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
coming out of warp.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. We
have finally arrived at 'aucdet
Nine. We will pick up the
specimens of Plasma Plague and
transport them to Rachelis.
30A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
approaching 'aucdet Nine.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
It is only because so many lives
are at stake that I am willing
to put this ship and crew at such
great risk.
31 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard is in his command seat, Riker beside him. Data
is at Ops and Wesley has the Conn. Troi enters from
the aft turbolift. She is FIVE months pregnant. The
crew can't help watching as she crosses and takes her
place next to Picard.
PICARD
How are you feeling?
TROI
I should be feeling uncomfortable
with all the changes in my
body... but, I'm not. I feel
fine -- better than fine.
Wonderful.
There is a look of concern in his eyes - not only for
his counselor, but because he still isn't sure what is
going to be born onto his ship.
RIKER
Standard orbit.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 18.
31 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
Standard orbit, aye.
PICARD
Open hailing frequencies.
WORF
Hailing frequencies open.
PICARD
'Aucdet Nine, this is Captain
Jean-Luc Picard of the USS
Enterprise.
There is a pause, then the viewscreen comes alive.
A MAN APPEARS. He's dressed in a disposable lab coat
and wearing a twenty-fourth century medical mask pushed up on
the top of his head. His name is LIEUTENANT COMMANDER
HESTER DEALT. INTERCUT VIEWSCREEN WHERE NECESSARY.
HESTER
Ah... yes... Enterprise you're
here at last. Good.
PICARD
Excuse me, to whom am I speaking?
HESTER
Oh... I'm Lieutenant Commander
Hester Dealt. The medical trustee
of the Federation Medical
Collection Station.
PICARD
Are the specimens ready for
transfer?
HESTER
Yes, but with your permission I
would like to inspect the
containment area before we
proceed. It is not that I doubt
the ability of your crew; we just
cannot afford a mistake.
PICARD
I appreciate your caution -- in
the same vein, I need a complete,
detailed manifest of everything
which you intend to bring on board
my ship.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 19.
31 CONTINUED: (2)
HESTER
I will allow access to the
computer banks.
The screen returns to a view of 'aucdet Nine.
PICARD
(to Data)
Download the inventory and go
through it with Doctor Pulaski.
(to Riker)
Number One, arrange to have Hester
Dealt transported up.
TROI
Captain, I'm suddenly feeling a
little tired. I'll be in my
quarters if you need me.
Picard nods. Troi gets slowly up and walks to the
turbolift. Picard watches her leave. In the b.g. Worf
also watches. He is still very uneasy.
32 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS
She steps up to her sink. She touches her face with a
wet cloth as she studies her image in the mirror. The
emotional strain of this event is etched on her
features. She looks down at her swollen body....
TROI
It won't be long now. Soon
you'll arrive and so many
questions will be answered.
The thought makes her smile.
33 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around 'aucdet Nine.
34 INT. CARGO HOLD FIVE
Hester Dealt continues his inspection on the
containment area, which is a very large rectangular
object suspended off the floor of the Cargo Deck. It
has a very sophisticated monitoring system for the
hundreds of compartments within.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 20.
34 CONTINUED:
HESTER
This is very good. Exactly what's
needed.
GEORDI
I just followed your instructions.
HESTER
Good. Exactly what I wanted.
Hester moves around the containment area -- over -- under
-- up -- down -- inspecting it from every possible angle.
HESTER
(continuing)
Five hundred and twelve
compartments. Individually
controlled. Very good.
Independent of one another.
Perfect. Ah, they can be
monitored from here. And,
isolation is assured. Very, very
good.
GEORDI
I wanted to be sure they wouldn't
get out.
HESTER
Good, Lieutenant. Very good
indeed.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
How's it coming, Mister La Forge?
HESTER
It will be just a little while
longer. I want to go over it
again in more detail.
GEORDI
It will be another couple of
hours, Commander.
HESTER
You do understand, it's critical
that we have zero growth.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 21.
34 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
(then to Hester Dealt)
Oh, yes. I understand. So, you
go over it as many times as you
want.
34A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around 'aucdet Nine.
PICARD (V.O.)
It's been fourteen hours since
we arrived at 'aucdet Nine.
Hester Dealt is making final
selections of the specimens we
will carry. Meanwhile, we
continue to receive desperate
pleas from the Rachelis System.
35 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Data is finishing up something at Science One.
DATA
Captain, the final manifest has
been received.
PICARD
At last. Review it with Doctor
Pulaski. I want both of you to
be completely familiar with it.
DATA
Aye sir.
Data leaves Science One and crosses to the turbolift.
36 INT. CORRIDOR
The turbolift doors open and Data steps into the
corridor. As he turns toward Sickbay he sees Troi,
walking with some difficulty. He quickly goes to her
aid.
TROI
Data -- help me get to Sickbay.
He offers his arm for support and together they
continue along.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 22.
37 INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE
The Doctor looks up as someone enters.
38 ANOTHER ANGLE
It's Troi and Data.
TROI
It's time.
PULASKI
Oh, you bet it is. Let's get you
into Sickbay.
As she helps Troi through Sickbay, Data touches his
communicator.
DATA
Worf -- assemble your security team
in Sickbay.
PULASKI
Is that necessary?
DATA
Yes -- captain's orders.
He then follows them into Sickbay.
PULASKI
(to Troi)
Strange to need armed guards in
the delivery room.
TROI
Yes, and strange to think my child
is the cause.
PULASKI
Before you referred to it as "the
child," now it's become your
child.
TROI
Yes, whatever his beginnings,
that's what he's become.
They exit Sickbay.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 23.
39 INT. SICKBAY - MATERNITY
They enter and Pulaski leads Troi to the bed. Her
MEDICAL ASSISTANTS move to prepare for the delivery.
Data comes up behind them.
PULASKI
How frequent are your
contractions?
TROI
Very close together.
PULASKI
In all my other deliveries -- with
a couple of exceptions -- the
father was present.
TROI
Difficult under the circumstances.
PULASKI
It's unfortunate you have to go
through this alone. It helps to
have someone with you.
DATA
Perhaps I could serve in that
capacity. I can quickly review
the procedures I will be required
to execute.
PULASKI
Troi is going to need the comfort
of a "human" touch... Not the cold
hand of technology.
Data reaction.
TROI
Doctor. I think Commander Data
will do nicely.
A look from the doctor to Troi and back to Data.
PULASKI
Your choice.
40 ANOTHER ANGLE
as the doctor and her assistants prepare Sickbay and
Troi for the delivery.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 24.
40 CONTINUED:
TROI
There is nothing specific you have
to do, Data, you just have to be
with me.
PULASKI
There is nothing to be nervous
about.
DATA
This is very interesting to me.
Although I understand in technical
terms how life is formed, there
is still a part of the process
which eludes my understanding.
I began my existence as an adult.
I have no memory -- no cognizance
of conception, birth, childhood,
so to be allowed to witness this
event is...
Troi grabs his hand.
TROI
It's happening.
DATA
(alarmed)
Doctor!
Pulaski steps over.
PULASKI
This is an impatient baby. He's
eager to make his appearance.
She picks up her hypospray.
PULASKI
(continuing)
I'll give you something for the
pain. It won't in any way
diminish the experience.
TROI
I have felt no pain.
PULASKI
None?
TROI
No... none at all.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 25.
40A INT. CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO SICKBAY
Worf and SECURITY TEAM arrive.
41 ANOTHER ANGLE - SICKBAY
They now have Troi in position in the birthing chair.
Worf and the security team enter and take up their
positions as Pulaski and her Assistant prepare for the
delivery.
PULASKI
Have your security team stand over
there. I understand the need to
have you here, but keep out from
under foot.
42 AND NOW THE BIRTH (INTERCUT THE PIECES OF THE
EVENT)
This is more than just the wondrous act of life. It
has as well the added tension of Worf and his security
team. Data, and his first close encounter with
creation of the thing he understands least -- life. As
this sequence begins, Riker appears in the background.
He stands to the side -- out of the way, but there in
case his friend, Deanna Troi, needs him.
WE WILL LAY THIS OUT, BASED ON HOW A CHILD IS
BORN ON THE TWENTY-FOURTH CENTURY ENTERPRISE.
And the CHILD comes out -- Worf edges closer -- the
doctor takes it to one side. Ties the cord, cleans
it, and brings it back to Troi. This is an effortless
birth -- no pain -- no strain.
PULASKI
Are easy births the norm for
Betazoids?
TROI
Not according to my mother.
PULASKI
(as she hands it to
Troi)
It's a boy. A normal, healthy,
six pound, three ounce baby boy.
Then to Worf.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 26.
42 CONTINUED:
PULASKI
(continuing; without
any edge)
You can come the rest of the way
in now.
Worf enters and approaches the baby as he would a
deadly snake.
43 ANOTHER ANGLE
as Worf and the newborn exchange looks.
PULASKI
No threat here, Lieutenant, you
and your men can relax... it's
just a baby.
Worf reacts.
44 TROI
as she holds the baby. Data leans in to see the child.
DATA
It was remarkable. Thank you for
allowing me to participate.
PULASKI
Do you have a name?
TROI
Ian Andrew, after my father.
PULASKI
(she touches her
communicator)
Captain.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard here.
PULASKI
Counselor Troi is the mother of
a very healthy baby boy. Mother
and child are both doing well.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Counselor, my best wishes to you
and your son.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 27.
44 CONTINUED:
TROI
Thank you, sir.
Riker now steps forward to pay his respects. He leans
down and kisses her on the forehead.
TROI
(continuing)
Have you been here all along?
RIKER
Yes.
(then just for her)
He's beautiful, Deanna... just
like his mother.
(to Worf)
I don't think you are going to
be needed here, Lieutenant.
Worf nods an acknowledgement and leads his security
team off. Riker and Troi exchange looks and he too
exits.
PULASKI
How do you feel?
TROI
Fine. Absolutely wonderful and
thank you, Doctor... for
everything.
PULASKI
(as she does a scan of
Troi and the baby, her
face registers
surprise)
Amazing.
45 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around 'aucdet Nine.
46 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The turbolift opens and for the first time Pulaski
steps onto the bridge.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 28.
46 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Welcome to the bridge, Doctor.
How's Counselor Troi? Did she
have a good night?
PULASKI
I have delivered dozens of babies.
But none like this. There was
no pain, no trauma. It was
effortless for both of them.
PICARD
I'm not sure of your point.
PULASKI
She had the baby yesterday. If
I were to examine her now, I would
not be able to tell that she just
had a baby, or ever had a baby.
It's as though the incident never
happened.
PICARD
(to Data)
How long before we are ready to
begin the transfer?
DATA
Two hours, nineteen minutes.
PICARD
(he stands)
You have the Conn, Number One.
RIKER
Aye, sir.
PICARD
Doctor, you would accompany me,
please. I think it's time I paid
my respects.
47 INT. CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO TROI'S QUARTERS
Picard and Pulaski approach the doorway. The CHIME
SOUNDS. From inside Troi says:
TROI
Come in.
The doors open and they enter.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 29.
48 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS
Troi's back is to him. She is doing something with her
child.
PICARD
I wanted to come by and see how
you were and have a look at
your...
At this moment the CHILD looks out from around Troi.
It is already THREE YEARS OLD!
PICARD
(continuing)
... baby! My goodness.
The Doctor takes out her medical recorder and does a
quick body scan of the child.
PICARD
(continuing)
How old is he?
PULASKI
In actuality a day.
PICARD
Yes, but...
PULASKI
... In appearance, almost four
earth years old.
TROI
Ian, say hello to Captain Picard.
PICARD
You mean he can talk?
The boy answers.
IAN
Hello.
Picard is stunned.
PICARD
Hello, Ian.
Picard moves closer.
IAN
Don't worry. Everything is fine.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 30.
48 CONTINUED:
Off their reactions we:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 31.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
49 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in a parking orbit near 'aucdet Nine.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. We
are faced with two major problems:
Troi's child and the deadly cargo
we are about to load, which is
so desperately needed in the
Rachelis system. In the hours
since his birth, Troi's baby has
continued to age and now appears,
physically and mentally, to be
a child of eight. And still there
is no indication as to who he is,
or why he is here.
50 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard and everyone else in place.
RIKER
Sickbay, this is the bridge. We
are ready to begin loading.
PULASKI'S COM VOICE
We need a little more time. It's
taking longer than we anticipated.
51 INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE (OPTICAL)
She is at her desk-top computer terminal as Data
enters.
PULASKI
Data,
(she says "Data" with
a short A)
look at this.
DATA
(he corrects her)
Data.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 32.
51 CONTINUED:
PULASKI
What?
DATA
My name. It is pronounced Data.
PULASKI
(with a wry smile)
Oh?
DATA
You called me Data.
PULASKI
What's the difference?
DATA
One is my name and the other is
not.
PULASKI
Is this possible?
Data is puzzled by the apparent non sequitur. Pulaski
stands, picks up her medical recorder, steps over to
Data and begins a body scan.
PULASKI
(continuing)
In all of your neural nets,
algorithms, and heuristics, is
there some combination which makes
up a circuit for bruised feelings?
Data looks confused.
PULASKI
(continuing)
Apparently so, because I think
I just offended your tender
sensibilities.
She looks at the puzzled Data.
PULASKI
(continuing)
Possible?
Then with an amused look, gets back to business.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 33.
51 CONTINUED: (2)
PULASKI
(continuing; indicating
the CRT)
I am unfamiliar with these
symbols.
Data steps around and examines the screen.
DATA
It indicates a genetically
engineered biological life-form.
PULASKI
About twenty percent of the
specimens fall into that category.
(to herself)
Some eager beaver at play.
DATA
Query... "eager beaver?"
PULASKI
In this case, 'eager beaver'
refers to some overachieving
genetic engineer, who probably
for lack of something better to
do forced this strain of virus
to mutate, just to see how bad,
bad can get.
(touches her
communicator)
Captain Picard.
INTERCUT WITH MAIN BRIDGE AS NEEDED.
PICARD
Picard here.
PULASKI
Just so you fully appreciate the
risks we are about to take...
PICARD
Enlighten me.
PULASKI
If the most innocuous specimen
on the manifest list gets loose,
it will destroy all life on the
Enterprise in a matter of hours.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 34.
51 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
I understand, Doctor. Do you have
a recommendation?
PULASKI
Considering how desperately this
is needed, no I don't. Just want
you to know what we're carrying.
PICARD
Thank you, Doctor. Commander
Data, if you have completed your
review, you are needed in
Transporter Room Three.
DATA
Yes, sir.
(to Pulaski)
Excuse me, Doctor.
PULASKI
That's okay...
(with long A, then short
A)
Data, Data... whatever.
He gives the doctor a look. Doctor Pulaski returns to
her viewscreen.
52 INT. CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA (OPTICAL)
Troi is standing by the door with the TEACHER (MISS
GLADSTONE). They are watching a GROUP OF KIDS playing
with a half a dozen puppies. Sitting right in the
middle of everything and playing with abandon is IAN,
WHO IS NOW ALMOST EIGHT. Troi is enthralled by the
actions of her "son."
TROI
Ian!
The boy looks up and smiles when he sees his mother.
Then he notices a LITTLE GIRL next to him. Ian takes
his hands off the puppy, and puts them (without any
sense of threat, just curiosity) on the girl's hair.
MISS GLADSTONE
He's a very tactile child. He
wants to touch and feel
everything.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 35.
52 CONTINUED:
TROI
Come on, sweetheart, time to go.
Ian scrambles to his feet and trots over to his mother
and gives her a big hug.
MISS GLADSTONE
Unbelievable -- I think he's
actually grown since you dropped
him off.
IAN
I like it here, Mommy.
TROI
I thought you would. Thank Miss
Gladstone for having you, and
let's go get you something to eat.
IAN
(to the teacher)
Thank you.
Ian then turns and waves to the other kids who are
still involved with the puppies.
IAN
(continuing)
Bye...
Some of the other children wave -- most are too involved
in what they are doing to notice.
TROI
(also to the teacher)
Thank you.
Miss Gladstone nods an acknowledgement, then watches
them leave. Her eyes reflect the amazement she feels
about Troi's unusual child.
53 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE
Data arrives.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
The transporter is not making a
positive lock.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 36.
53 CONTINUED:
DATA
The built-in inhibitor is
restricting onloading of
life-forms known to be hazardous
to the occupants of this ship.
Have you attempted override?
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
I don't have the authority.
Data steps in behind the console.
DATA
Computer, recognize -- Lieutenant
Commander N-F-N, N-M-I, Data.
COMPUTER VOICE
Authorization accepted.
DATA
Initiate override protocol.
COMPUTER VOICE
Override protocol is not
recommended in this situation.
DATA
Acknowledged. On my authority
-- begin override.
There is a pause.
COMPUTER VOICE
Sequence complete.
The TRANSPORTER CHIEF inputs the coordinates.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF
Cargo Deck Five. We will commence
transport on your command.
54 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE
Riker, Geordi and a couple of crewmembers are by the
containment grid. Geordi does a final visual survey of
the area.
GEORDI
Transporter Three -- we are ready
to receive.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 37.
55 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE
as Data watches the Transporter Chief manipulate the
controls.
56 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL)
Riker and Geordi watch as the deadly little ampules are
BEAMED into position. Next to Geordi is a CRT which
reads out the contents of the little containers.
GEORDI
(to Data)
Data, the first batch is in place.
Ready for the next.
RIKER
Inform me when loading is complete
and the cargo secure.
GEORDI
Aye, sir.
Riker exits the Cargo Deck as the second batch of
specimens appears within the containment grid.
57 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE
The Transporter Chief sets in the coordinates and beams
up the next load.
58 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS
Troi and eight-year-old Ian are there. The doors open.
Picard and Pulaski enter.
PULASKI
I wanted to stop by and see how
Ian was doing.
TROI
We're doing fine. I was just
going to give Ian his supper.
IAN
(to Picard)
Do you want your supper now, too?
PICARD
No, Ian, but thank you for the
invitation.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 38.
58 CONTINUED:
IAN
You're welcome.
A spoon which Ian is playing with more than using,
slips out of his hand and falls on the floor. Picard
retrieves it.
IAN
(continuing)
Have you ever played with puppies?
Picard looks to Troi for an explanation. Troi smiles.
TROI
They had a litter today in the
nursery.
PICARD
No, I have never played with
puppies.
IAN
You'd like it. You should go
to the nursery while the puppies
are still there.
PICARD.
Perhaps later.
Troi puts the boy's supper down in front of him. It
includes some hot steaming soup. Picard and Pulaski
watch as Ian examines his food. He tries to touch the
steam coming off the soup, then feels the wetness on
his little fingers. Everything connected with his
physical senses fascinates the child. He sticks his
hand into the hot soup and holds it there for a beat:
IAN
(pulling it out)
Ouch...
He looks at his scalded fingers. Tears well up in his
eyes and like any other child his age; he runs to his
mother.
IAN
(continuing)
Ow... Mommy... ow...
Troi gathers the boy into her arms as the doctor steps
over.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 39.
58 CONTINUED: (2)
PULASKI
Let me look at that.
Ian holds out the fingers and watches with great
interest as Pulaski uses one of the instruments from
the pocket of her smock to medicate the fingers.
PULASKI
(continuing)
It's not serious.
Ian studies his fingers as he realizes the pain is
gone. Then he touches his cheek and feels the tears.
IAN
My face is wet.
Troi gently dries his tears with the tips of her
fingers, then lovingly strokes his hair.
TROI
Is it better now, sweetheart?
The boy nods and cuddles in against his mother.
PULASKI
He allowed himself to be burned.
PICARD
Yes, for the experience.
PULASKI
Who is he? Why is he here? What
does he want?
59 PICARD
He watches the child intently.
PICARD
Ian, could you tell us why you
are here?
IAN
Because Mommy said it was time
to eat.
Reactions from Troi and the doctor.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 40.
59 CONTINUED:
PICARD
No, I mean... why you are here
on this ship?
IAN
I live here.
TROI
Ian, the captain wants to know
if you are ready to tell us why
you came here.
IAN
No. Not yet.
Ian picks up the glass, which unlike the soup, this is
cold.
TROI
The answer is within him. When
his cognitive powers develop
sufficiently, he will be able to
articulate it.
PICARD
I hope he will tell us soon.
He takes some of the liquid into his mouth... rolls
it around, swallows some, and lets the rest run down
his chin. Picard watches as Ian pours some of the
liquid onto his leg just to know how it feels, then
he turns and walks toward the exit.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Captain to the bridge.
PICARD
I'm on my way, Number One.
(to Troi)
Keep me apprised of his progress,
Counselor.
Pulaski stays behind with Troi and her baby.
IAN
(too late for Picard
to respond)
Bye...
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 41.
60 OMITTED
61 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard steps off the turbolift to the bridge. Riker is
beside him. Data is at Ops -- Worf at the Tactical
Station. The other positions are filled with n.d.
crewmembers.
RIKER
The cargo has been loaded and is
secure.
PICARD
Take us out of orbit, Number One
-- then set a course for Rachelis
-- warp nine.
62
thru OMITTED
63
64 EXT. TEN-FORWARD (OPTICAL)
Wesley steps up to the window, still carrying the
weight of his decision. Guinan watches him cross the
room and stand in front of the large center window.
65 GUINAN AND WESLEY (OPTICAL)
She comes up beside him.
GUINAN
Can I get you something?
WESLEY
No. I just wanted to stand here.
GUINAN
I don't blame you -- it's
beautiful.
WESLEY
Yes.
GUINAN
How about some nice Mareuvian Tea?
WESLEY
No. Nothing thank you.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 42.
65 CONTINUED:
GUINAN
You're going to be leaving soon.
WESLEY
Yes.
They both watch as the Enterprise leaves orbit. The
planet 'aucdet Nine slips away. As Wesley watches the
ship maneuver into position, Guinan watches him.
GUINAN
What do you see when you look out
there?
WESLEY
Over there is the Lorenze cluster,
and there Arneb and there Epsilon
Indi.
GUINAN
No, I don't mean that. I mean
when you look there don't you see
your future?
Wesley gives her a little sideways look.
WESLEY
It will still be there.
GUINAN
How about a cup of nectar direct
from Prometheus?
WESLEY
No -- nothing. That's the third
time you've asked me.
GUINAN
It's what I'm expected to do.
Don't you always do what's
expected?
WESLEY
I try to.
GUINAN
Even if it's not what you really
want?
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 43.
65 CONTINUED: (2)
WESLEY
Sometimes. Sometimes you have
to consider others more than
yourself.
GUINAN
That's true. But sometimes the
game is to know when to consider
yourself more than others and to
give yourself permission to be...
selfish.
He looks at her. Then -- before he can answer, the
Enterprise leaps to warp speed. The star field becomes
a spectacular display. We PLAY THE REACTIONS of Guinan
and Wesley.
66 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
moves along at warp speed.
67 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL)
A concerned Hester Dealt is scanning the containment
grid with his very sophisticated monitoring equipment.
HESTER
(real concern)
Something's wrong.
Geordi approaches Hester Dealt.
GEORDI
What is it?
HESTER
Growth.
GEORDI
Where?
HESTER
L-seven-three.
Geordi steps over to the side of the containment area,
and activates a CRT screen. The screen has a display
of the 512 modules inside. Each has a series of
indicators, ONE ON THE FAR SIDE IS FLASHING. Geordi
manipulates the panel so the display turns, giving him
a better look at the flashing light.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 44.
67 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(touches his
communicator)
Bridge, this is Cargo Deck Five.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Yes, Lieutenant La Forge.
GEORDI
There is a malfunction in the
containment area.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
How serious?
HESTER
Very.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 45.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
68 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
traveling at warp speed.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. For
reasons as yet unknown, one of
the specimens of Plasma Plague
is growing.
69 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE
Geordi and Hester Dealt continue checking. With a
handheld monitoring device, Hester Dealt makes a sweep
of the Cargo Deck.
GEORDI
(touches his
communicator)
Captain, the power to the
containment grid must have somehow
been affected when we increased
to warp velocity.
INTERCUT THE MAIN BRIDGE AS NEEDED
PICARD
I don't see how that would be
possible.
GEORDI
I don't either, but if we could
return to impulse, we would know
for sure.
PICARD
Impulse velocity.
70 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it comes out of warp.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 46.
71 OMITTED
72 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The tension level is growing.
PICARD
Report, Mister La Forge.
73 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE
Geordi waits as Hester Dealt checks his monitoring
equipment, then shakes his head.
GEORDI
There's no change. It wasn't the
warp drive.
74 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard did not expect any. Riker is on his feet and
heading for the turbolift.
RIKER
Permission to leave the bridge.
PICARD
Granted.
RIKER
Commander Data, you're with me.
Data leaves his position and follows Riker.
PICARD
Doctor Pulaski.
75 INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE
Pulaski is running through some medical records.
PULASKI
Yes, Captain.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
We are having some difficulties
on Cargo Deck Five -- your presence
is requested.
She is thoughtful for a beat.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 47.
75 CONTINUED:
PULASKI
I'm on my way.
75A INT. TEN-FORWARD (FORMERLY SCENE 71)
Wesley and Guinan are at the bar. Wesley is eating
a twenty-fourth century Enterprise version of an ice cream
sundae. His mood is much lighter, indicating he has
come to some decision regarding his future.
WESLEY
You never talk about yourself.
GUINAN
Sure I do... all the time.
WESLEY
People say you are very old...
GUINAN
Oh?
WESLEY
... and that you knew Captain
Picard when he was on the
Stargazer.
GUINAN
No. I never met the captain until
I came onboard.
WESLEY
Everyone is very curious about
you.
GUINAN
I'll bet they are.
WESLEY
About where you come from.
GUINAN
Where do they say?
WESLEY
I heard that you're from Nova Kron
and that...
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Mister Crusher, report to the
bridge.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 48.
75A CONTINUED:
He's on his feet and heading for the door.
WESLEY
I've got to go.
Wesley stops and turns back.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Thank you.
GUINAN
There's nothing like a dish of
Delovian souffle.
WESLEY
I didn't mean the souffle, I meant
for... well... the rest. Thanks.
GUINAN
That's why I'm here.
76 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The turbolift opens and Wesley Crusher comes onto the
bridge.
PICARD
Take the Conn, Mister Crusher.
Wesley replaces the crewmember at that position.
PICARD
(continuing)
On this course -- increase velocity
to warp nine.
WESLEY
Aye, sir. Warp nine.
77 OMITTED
78 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE
Hester, Data, Riker are gathered around the monitoring
equipment. Geordi is off to one side peering at a
distant sector of the containment field. THE INDICATOR
LIGHT OF L-SEVEN-THREE CONTINUES TO FLASH.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 49.
78 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Why that module and not the
others?
DATA
Computer, run diagnostic on module
L-seven-three.
COMPUTER VOICE
All circuits functional.
GEORDI
(reading it off)
Temperature -- as set -- minus
ninety-seven degrees. Humidity
-- twelve percent. Lumins -- zero.
Electromagnetic containment
integrity... Everything right down
the line... exactly as it should
be.
DATA
Perhaps it is a sensor malfunction.
Computer -- query. Is growth
actually occurring?
COMPUTER VOICE
Confirmed.
79 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
as the door opens and Doctor Pulaski enters. She nods
a greeting to Riker and the others, then steps over
beside Geordi who continues studying the distant
section of the containment grid.
RIKER
One of the specimens is growing.
PULASKI
(to Hester Dealt)
Destroy it, now.
HESTER
I can't.
RIKER
Data, prepare to jettison that
module.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 50.
79 CONTINUED:
HESTER
We can't do that either. It will
go into a spore and remain until
it comes in contact with a planet
or another ship. The results
would be disastrous.
RIKER
Commander, your attitude tells
me that however bad I think this
is... it's worse.
HESTER
(he indicates the
containment area)
This is not going to hold it.
RIKER
Go on.
HESTER
The rate of growth is increasing.
Within thirty minutes it will push
out of the module. Within two
hours, it will breach the
containment area.
GEORDI
It can't break through this.
HESTER
Yes it can.
RIKER
(touches his
communicator)
Captain. We may not be able to
get control of this situation.
I recommend making arrangements
to transfer all non-essential
personnel to the saucer section.
If we lose containment we should
be prepared to separate.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Make it so.
PULASKI
Why this one specimen and none
of the others? Something is
stimulating it. Do you have its
etiology? How it was developed?
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 51.
79 CONTINUED: (2)
Hester inputs the freestanding viewscreen, and the
HISTORY OF "L-SEVEN-THREE" APPEARS. Pulaski looks
at it.
PULASKI
It's a mutated strain developed
by Doctor Susan Nuress during an
outbreak of Plasma Plague seventy
years ago in the Oby System.
(she pauses as she
continues to read)
It was number nine in a series
of tests. This particular one
bombarded by low levels of Eichner
radiation.
(then she turns to
Hester)
Could exposure to Eichner
radiation stimulate growth?
As a reflex act, Hester Dealt makes a sweep of the area
with his handheld monitor.
HESTER
Yes, it could, but...
He stops... his expression says...
HESTER
(continuing)
Uh, oh...
PULASKI
Don't tell me.
HESTER
I'm detecting low levels of
Eichner radiation.
RIKER
Why didn't you catch it before?
HESTER
Because it wasn't here before..
PULASKI
Well, it is now. What emits that
type radiation?
DATA
A subspace phase inverter.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 52.
79 CONTINUED: (3)
GEORDI
We don't have one.
DATA
Certain cyanoacrylates.
PULASKI
Also, not on this ship... What
else? Because it's here and we
better find it.
Data has no answer.
80 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
Troi is putting the child to bed. She touches a
control panel near the windows which turns them to
their opaque configuration.
IAN
I can feel that some of the people
are very... worried.
TROI
Yes. I feel it as well, but don't
you worry.
IAN
It's me Mommy -- I'm the reason.
TROI
What?
IAN
It's me.
TROI
You?
IAN
Yes. I have to leave you now,
or it will be very bad for
everyone.
TROI
What are you saying?
He smiles up at her.
IAN
I have to leave now.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 53.
80 CONTINUED:
TROI
Leave?
(senses what he is about
to do)
You are going to die. No. No,
you can't.
He smiles up and closes his eyes.
TROI
(continuing; she touches
her communicator)
Sickbay, this is Counselor Troi,
I need the doctor in my
quarters... right now.
(then she lifts Ian to
her)
No... Ian... No.
Off Troi's reaction.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 54.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
81 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS
as Pulaski leads the others to Troi's quarters.
TROI
It's Ian. Please... please hurry.
Pulaski moves quickly to the unconscious child; pulls
back the covers. She removes an instrument from her
smock and makes a scan of the child's body. In the
b.g., Picard enters with Riker and Data.
TROI
(continuing)
Save him, you must save him.
PULASKI
What happened? Did he eat
anything? Did he fall?
TROI
No.
Data, using his tricorder, confirms with a nod to
Riker.
DATA
The child is the source of the
unusual radiation.
TROI
He said he's the reason the ship
is in danger.
DATA
That analysis is correct.
Pulaski injects the child with hypospray.
PULASKI
I'm losing life signs.
Troi stands by helplessly. Like any mother in this
situation, she is beyond grief. Tears streak her face.
TROI
Oh, please. Please save him.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 55.
82 PULASKI
resets the injector and again she administers a dose
of hypospray. She waits for a reaction. There is
none.
83 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
The room is very quiet. Pulaski stands.
PULASKI
I'm sorry.
Troi moves next to the cot on which the child is lying.
She is beyond despair. Her heart has completely
broken. The others allow her a moment alone, then as
Riker is about to move to Troi's side, a LIGHT -- the
glowing energy which we saw at the beginning -- gathers
from within the child and slowly rises. As it does,
the body that was Ian fades away until there is only
the LIGHT.
84 INTERCUT REACTIONS (OPTICAL)
Troi reaches out and with cupped hands she collects
the LIGHT, cradles it gently and brings it to her.
As she holds it close, it makes her face all aglow.
Slowly the pain and despair drain away, and through
the tears she smiles. The joy she now feels shines
from her eyes. The Betazoid within her, embraces the
essence of the entity before her and she knows now why
he came and what he wanted. Then, in an act of pure
love, she releases the glowing energy as she would a
dove. For a beat the LIGHT seems reluctant to leave.
Then it does. It passes effortlessly through the wall
of the ship and away. Troi stares after it for a beat.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
(excited -- relieved)
Captain. The containment field
has stabilized.
PICARD
Thank you, Lieutenant.
Troi turns and looks at her captain and shipmates.
TROI
Then Ian was right. He was the
cause.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 56.
84 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Apparently so.
Troi pauses, gathering her feelings and picking her
words carefully. She settles her emotions.
TROI
He is a life-force entity... as
we passed each other in space he
was curious and wanted to know
about us, and he thought the best
way to learn was to go through
the process. To be born, to live
as one of us and in that way to
understand us.
She pauses, then:
TROI
(continuing)
Captain, he never meant any harm.
Picard nods -- he knows that is true.
RIKER
There was a moment when you
smiled.
TROI
(she smiles again)
He said thank you.
(she pauses)
I told him we will miss him -- and
I will.
The others will also miss him.
85 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it enters orbit near Science Station Tango Sierra.
86 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard is in his command chair, Riker beside him,
Wesley at Conn.
PICARD
Standard station approach, Mister
Crusher.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 57.
86 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
Standard approach, aye.
PICARD
Transporter Room Three, this is
the captain. We have arrived.
Let's make this transfer with all
deliberate speed, and get on about
our business.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Yes, sir.
RIKER
I will be glad to be relieved of
this cargo.
Picard rises.
PICARD
You have the bridge, Number One.
RIKER
Yes sir.
As Picard crosses the bridge, Ensign Wesley Crusher
buttonholes him.
WESLEY
Captain.
PICARD
Yes Ensign?
WESLEY
Could I see you when you have a
moment?
PICARD
In my Ready Room when your duties
permit.
WESLEY
Thank you, sir.
Picard continues on and leaves the bridge.
87 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL)
Geordi and Hester Dealt are standing next to the
containment area.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 58.
87 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Good luck.
The TRANSPORTER BEAM takes over and removes Hester
Dealt from the Enterprise.
GEORDI
(touches his
communicator)
Data, you can lock on to the first
group and begin transporting on
my mark.
88 INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM
The CHIME RINGS.
PICARD
Come.
The doors open. It's Ensign Crusher. He enters and
stands in front of Picard's desk.
PICARD
Yes, Ensign.
WESLEY
(hesitant)
Captain... I have thought about
this a lot. I want to remain on
the Enterprise.
PICARD
Oh. Have you discussed this with
your mother?
WESLEY
No, before I do that, I wanted
your permission to stay.
PICARD
Wes, it's a little more
complicated than that.
WESLEY
Captain, for right now... this
is where I want to be. This is
where I feel I belong.
Picard studies the young man for a beat.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 59.
88 CONTINUED:
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Captain -- transfer complete. We
are ready to leave orbit.
PICARD
Make it so, Number One.
(then to Wesley)
Return to your position.
Wesley hesitates a beat because he still hasn't
received an answer.
89 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard -- followed by Wesley -- comes on to the bridge.
Troi steps off the turbolift and takes her place.
RIKER
All stations secure.
PICARD
Take us out of orbit, Mister
Crusher and lay in a course for
the Morgana Quadrant.
WESLEY
Yes, sir.
Picard takes his seat.
PICARD
(loud enough for
everyone to hear)
Mister Crusher has requested to
remain on the Enterprise.
RIKER
I'm not surprised. How did you
respond?
PICARD
I haven't as yet, Number One.
I don't think it's my decision
alone. His remaining will cause
difficulties for us all.
RIKER
Yes, indeed. With his mother not
around, who will see to his
studies?
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 60.
89 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Exactly. That duty would fall
to Commander Data.
RIKER
And, who'll tuck him in at night?
WESLEY
Come on, Commander.
WORF
I will accept that responsibility.
TROI
Well, we know he'll get his sleep.
PICARD
Then, Number One, that leaves you
the task of guiding young Mister
Crusher through his most hazardous
journey -- from youth to man. Are
you willing to serve?
RIKER
Difficult question...
Wesley turns and looks at Riker with a plea in his
eyes. INTERCUT look between them.
RIKER
(continuing)
... Yes, I think I can do that.
PICARD
All right then. Mister Crusher,
communicate with your mother at
Starfleet Medical headquarters.
Give her my regards and tell her
you have my permission to remain
on board the Enterprise.
There is a big smile on Wesley's face.
PICARD
(continuing)
But, that I will abide by her
wishes.
WESLEY
Yes, sir... thank you sir... I
just know she'll agree.
STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 61.
89 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
Now -- if you have course and speed
laid in.
WESLEY
(back to duty)
Yes sir, they are.
PICARD
Then, Mister Crusher -- engage.
90 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
moves off to its next assignment.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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