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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Nth Degree"
#40274-193
Written by
Joe Menosky
Directed by
Rob Legato
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 1991 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Nth Degree"
CAST
PICARD REGINALD BARCLAY
RIKER ALBERT EINSTEIN
DATA VOICE OF THE PLANET
BEVERLY
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
ENSIGN APRIL ANAYA
LIEUTENANT LINDA LARSON
ENSIGN BROWER
COMPUTER VOICE
Non-Speaking
N.D. ENGINEERS
N.D. SECURITY OFFICERS
SUPERNUMERARIES
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Nth Degree"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM SHUTTLECRAFT
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
SICKBAY "SUPERSPACE"
ENGINEERING
CORRIDOR SUPER PLANET
HOLODECK
EMPTY
SHIP'S THEATRE
17TH CENTURY FRENCH DINING ROOM
UNDRESSED STAGE
SHUTTLECRAFT
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/29/91 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Nth Degree"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
ANGSTOM ANG-strum
AXONS ax-ONS
CORPUS CALLOSUM CORE-pus kuh-LOW-sum
CYTHERIANS sigh-THEAR-ee-n
DENSITOMETER dense-uh-TOM-uh-ter
GIGAWATTS GIG-uh-watts
ICONIC eye-KAH-nick
INTERROGATIVE in-ter-ROG-ah-tiv
PERMEABILITY per-mee-ah-BILL-uh-tee
POST-SYNAPTIC POST sin-AP-tic
SERO-AMINO SEHR-oh uh-MEAN-oh
TERAWATTS TEHR-uh-watts
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/28/91 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Nth Degree"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 INT. 17TH CENTURY FRANCE - DINING ROOM
A very spare, period dining room -- simple wooden table
and two chairs, more functional than fancy. BEVERLY
CRUSHER wears a beautiful dress; REGINALD BARCLAY, has
the clothes of a duellist -- and a LARGE NOSE. They
are doing CYRANO DE BERGERAC.
BEVERLY
-- You were like a brother to
me. We played in the park near
the lake.
BARCLAY
Of course -- Every summer you
came to Bergerac!
BEVERLY
You used to make swords out of
the reeds -- And when you cut
your hand, you would run to
me, and I would say --
(taking his hand)
"Let me see --"
She sees real blood on the hand from a cut, and reacts.
BEVERLY
Oh! How did you do that?
BARCLAY
"Playing" near the Porte de
Nesle.
She wets a handkerchief and starts to wash his hand.
BEVERLY
And how many were against you?
BARCLAY
No more than a hundred.
BEVERLY
Tell me!
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/30/91 - TEASER 2.
1 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
No... Let it go. You tell me
what you were going to say. Do
you dare?
BEVERLY
(still holding his hand)
I do dare... I love someone.
BARCLAY
Ah!
BEVERLY
But he does not know.
BARCLAY
Ah!
BEVERLY
Not yet. He is proud, noble,
brave and beautiful --
BARCLAY
(turns pale, quickly
rises)
Beautiful!
BEVERLY
What's the matter?
BARCLAY
(smiling to cover it)
With me? Nothing. Just my hand.
(beat)
He is in the Guards?
BEVERLY
Since this morning. Baron
Christien de Neuvillette. In your
own regiment.
BARCLAY
Ah...
BEVERLY
Promise to be his friend.
BARCLAY
I promise.
BEVERLY
And never let him fight a duel.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/30/91 - TEASER 2A.
1 CONTINUED: (2)
BARCLAY
God forbid.
BEVERLY
Oh, I love you.
(standing)
I must go now. You never told
me what happened last night.
And tell him to write me. A
hundred men against one. To
write, remember. A hundred men!
What courage!
BARCLAY
(aside to audience)
Oh... I have done better since...
Barclay holds the moment in character. He is met with
applause.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - TEASER 3.
2 INCLUDE AUDIENCE
RIKER, DATA, GEORDI, TROI, WORF, and a few
supernumeraries still clapping.
RIKER
Bravo.
TROI
Wonderful.
Data reacts with puzzlement to the applause. He
himself has not joined in.
DATA
(to Riker)
Lieutenant Barclay's performance
was superficially adequate but
clearly not rooted in The Method
approach. As a result, his
customary anxiety was evident.
I do not understand why...
RIKER
(still clapping)
-- Because it's polite, Data.
Data considers for a beat, and joins in the applause
as it finishes. Beverly and Barclay step off the
"stage" area to meet their friends, who stand to greet
them.
GEORDI
(re: Barclay)
Not a bad showing after only six
weeks of lessons.
BEVERLY
Not a bad showing period.
BARCLAY
(sheepish, re: Beverly)
I... we have a very... patient
teacher.
Beverly eyes Worf.
BEVERLY
There's an opening in my
workshop... Worf.
Worf grunts his disapproval of the suggestion, and the
others laugh as the group begins to break up.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - TEASER 4.
3 ON TROI AND BARCLAY
TROI
Well done.
BARCLAY
Thank... thank you...
Counselor...
Barclay is more confident than we saw him in his debut
episode, but still a far cry from Enterprise norm (he
still has trouble meeting another's gaze). And he's
noticeably even less sure of himself than he appeared
in the acting scene only moments ago.
TROI
You've come a long way, Reg.
BARCLAY
After... more rehearsals than I
can count.
TROI
I don't just mean your acting
ability. It takes a great deal
of courage to put yourself on
display like that.
BARCLAY
You think so...
TROI
(acknowledges)
There was a time when nothing
could have dragged you onto a
stage in front of an audience.
You've made tremendous progress.
BARCLAY
I... I guess...
He's hesitant. She picks up on it, encourages him.
TROI
Don't you think so?
BARCLAY
Well...
She waits him out for a beat. He indicates his
costume.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - TEASER 5.
3 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
(continuing)
I still feel more... more
comfortable playing somebody else.
Maybe all this is no better than
escaping into a holodeck fantasy.
TROI
I disagree. This isn't fantasy
-- it's theatre. You used to
withdraw into the holodeck. You
isolated yourself inside your own
imagination, avoiding contact with
real people.
She indicates the stage.
TROI
(continuing)
Look at yourself now... and look
at all the other people you're
with... you're not just acting,
you're inter-acting. Give
yourself some credit, Mister
Barclay!
He nods.
BARCLAY
Maybe... you're right.
Troi smiles and goes out the door. Stay on Barclay,
alone in costume, audience gone. Despite some
progress, we get a sense of just how painful it still
is to be Barclay.
4 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise hovering in front of the ARGUS ARRAY.
It is a huge subspace radio telescope -- a series of
panels, resembling several very long box-kites stacked
one on top of the other. It looks absolutely immense.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 44704.2.
We have arrived at the Argus
Array, the remote subspace
telescope at the very edge of
Federation space.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - TEASER 6.
4 CONTINUED:
PICARD (Cont'd)
The unmanned structure
mysteriously stopped relaying its
data nearly two months ago.
5 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD, Riker, Worf, Data, Geordi and ENSIGN APRIL
ANAYA.
DATA
The fusion reactors that power
the array are extremely unstable.
The risk of overload is high.
RIKER
What about the computer systems?
DATA
(testing panels)
They do not seem to be functioning
at all.
WORF
(off instruments)
Captain! I am picking up an
unidentified device! One point
eight kilometers from the array!
PICARD
Onscreen.
6
thru OMITTED
7
8 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN -- THE PROBE (OPTICAL)
We see a panel of the Array, and hanging in front of
it, a silent, probe-like device.
PICARD
Magnify.
The image on the viewscreen is replaced by a highly
MAGNIFIED VIEW of the probe.
RIKER
Some kind of probe. I'll bet
that's what damaged the array.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/28/91 - TEASER 7.
8 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(to Worf)
Is it emitting any signals,
Lieutenant?
WORF
Negative, sir. I show no
activity.
PICARD
Mister La Forge, why don't you
go out and take a closer look.
GEORDI
(exiting)
Aye, sir.
(to Com)
Mister Barclay, report to
Main Shuttlebay.
As the turbolift closes behind Geordi, OFF Picard as
he stares at the viewscreen...
9 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The shuttle is already in space... moving away from the
ship.
10 INT. SHUTTLE
Geordi at the helm, Barclay at his station.
GEORDI
Enterprise, this is Shuttle Five,
in position. Ready to begin
short-range scan.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Proceed, Shuttle Five.
11 INCLUDE SHUTTLE WINDOW (OPTICAL)
At this close distance, the Array can be seen only as a
grey, metallic backdrop. Hanging motionless in front
of it, only meters from the shuttle, is the alien
probe, vaguely cylindrical, about ten meters tall and
three wide.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - TEASER 8.
11 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(to Barclay)
Let's start with the passive high
res series.
Barclay is a little nervous, but it's combined with an
excitement about being there.
BARCLAY
Electromagnetic band?
GEORDI
Give it a try.
Barclay nods and touches his instrument panel.
BARCLAY
I'm picking up visual wavelengths
only. Between forty-five...
forty-five hundred and seven
thousand angstroms.
GEORDI
Try the neutron densitometer.
Barclay touches the panel.
BARCLAY
Nothing.
GEORDI
Hmmmm. Doesn't seem to want to
give up any secrets. Let's go
to active scan.
Barclay keys it in. They're both surprised at the
instruments.
BARCLAY
No... No modulation.
GEORDI
(to probe)
You are definitely not from our
neighborhood.
(to Barclay)
Increase to three point zero.
Barclay does so. Glances over at Geordi.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - TEASER 9.
11 CONTINUED: (2)
BARCLAY
(hesitantly)
Commander?
GEORDI
Yeah, Reg?
BARCLAY
Thanks for... for assigning me
to this mission.
GEORDI
Don't mention it. You're one of
my top engineers. It's about time
you started to do the interesting
stuff.
(re: situation)
This is why I'm in Starfleet.
BARCLAY
(off instruments)
Still no modulation.
GEORDI
Hit it with the positron emission.
Barclay touches his panel -- the probe responds with a
BLINDING FLASH of white light that lights up the entire
inside of the shuttle for an instant before shutting
down again.
GEORDI
(continuing)
What was that?
(looking at instruments)
Our computer is down!
He glances over -- Barclay is slumped back in his
chair, unconscious. Geordi is alarmed. He shakes
Barclay.
GEORDI
Reg! Reg!
Geordi puts a finger on Barclay's neck to feel for a
pulse. OFF the concern on his face.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 10.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
12 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship maintaining position near the Array.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. An
intense energy surge from the
alien probe has severly disabled
the shuttle's onboard computer.
The away team has been transported
directly to Sickbay.
12A INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Ensign Anaya.
RIKER
Any indication of the probe's
energy source, Data?
DATA
No sir. Power emissions do not
match any known radiation
patterns. We have not encountered
this technology before.
PICARD
Very well. Isolate the probe and
place it in tow. We'll take it
to Science Station Four-Oh-Two
in the Kohlan system...
WORF
(interrupting)
Captain. The probe has begun to
move. It is approaching the
Enterprise.
RIKER
Shields up!
WORF
Aye, sir.
OFF Picard's reaction...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 11.
13 INT. SICKBAY
Barclay is sitting up on a diagnostic bed, looking
completely normal. Beverly and Geordi are standing
next to him. Crusher turns to Barclay.
BEVERLY
(to Barclay)
There was enough energy in that
flash to overload your optic
nerves. It knocked you
unconscious.
GEORDI
My VISOR must have filtered it
out.
BEVERLY
Exactly.
(to Barclay)
Well, there's no apparent retinal
damage and the cornea looks fine.
But I'm still waiting for the full
sero-amino readout. I'll call
you when it comes in.
Barclay takes this as a dismissal, and gets down off
the bed, joining Geordi. Beverly heads for another
part of Sickbay. Barclay thinks for a moment, then
hesitantly calls after her.
BARCLAY
You shouldn't have to... wait so
long for the results...
Beverly stops and turns back to him, puzzled.
BEVERLY
What do you mean?
BARCLAY
Couldn't you use a global mode
in your scanner... It would be
a lot faster.
She's a bit taken aback by the suggestion, and by who
it's coming from. So is Geordi.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/28/91 - ACT ONE 12.
13 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
That's not possible.
(a smile)
These are human cells we're
talking about, not isolinear
circuits.
(kiddingly)
You'd better stick to engineering.
Barclay, still a bit sheepish about bringing it up,
thinks for a second.
BARCLAY
The cells have a... an
electromagnetic signature... just
like a circuit element does...
Conceptually, it should work...
with a few adjustments...
She's interrupted by the RED ALERT lights and klaxons
sound. Geordi quickly heads for the door, Barclay
follows. On the way out he looks back toward Beverly
over his shoulder.
BARCLAY
(continuing)
I could set it up for you if you'd
like...
HOLD a moment on Beverly as Geordi and Barclay
disappear out the door. Despite the Red Alert, she's
still curious about his suggestion.
14 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Ensign Anaya at their
positions. RED ALERT klaxons and lights in background.
WORF
Probe now closing at fifteen
point three meters per second.
Collision course.
14A INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN
The Array is in the distance. We gradually discern the
probe approaching from its direction.
It is miniscule by comparison.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 13.
14A CONTINUED:
DATA
Captain, sensors are reading no
particulate emissions or subspace
field distortions.
Picard reacts.
PICARD
Then how is it able to move?
DATA
The method of propulsion is
unknown.
RIKER
Ensign, take us away from it.
One quarter impulse.
ENSIGN ANAYA
Aye, Sir.
She touches her controls.
15 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The probe continues hanging before them as they move,
inert -- no blinkies or indication of any activity --
but threatening in its silence.
15A INT. MAIN BRIDGE
WORF
The probe is matching our speed
and course.
DATA
Captain, an energy field is
forming around the device.
Intensity is three point two
terawatts, and increasing.
WORF
Sir, the shuttlecraft shields did
not provide sufficent protection
for its computer. Our computer
may also be vulnerable. I
recommend withdrawal to a safe
distance.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 14.
15A CONTINUED:
PICARD
Ensign Anaya, full about, go to
one-half impulse.
ENSIGN ANAYA
(touching panel)
One-half impulse.
WORF
The probe is following.
Reactions.
16 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at impulse. The probe moving parallel.
17 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD
Options, Number One?
RIKER
We can't use photon torpedoes.
An explosion this close to the
ship could cripple us.
WORF
Sir, recommend full phasers.
PICARD
Proceed.
WORF
Firing phasers.
Worf fires the phasers.
18
thru OMITTED
19
20 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
The phasers fire point blank on the probe. Nothing
happens.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 15.
21 RESUME
The staff reacts.
WORF
No effect, Captain.
DATA
(off instruments)
The probe's field intensity is
continuing to build... we are in
danger, Captain...
RIKER
(to COM)
Riker to La Forge. Can you
increase phaser power?
INTERCUT AS NEEDED:
22 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is at his controls, Barclay a couple of panels
down, other N.D. engineers including LIEUTENANT LINDA
LARSON hurrying around to various panels, checking
readings and making adjustments. The RED ALERT
continues. Barclay appears to be working furiously.
GEORDI
(to COM)
Attempting to now, Commander.
(to Barclay)
Isolate phasers eighty through
one twenty and shunt all plasma...
BARCLAY
... to the emitters, yessir, I'm
already on it... ready.
Geordi glances at the instrument panel with some
surprise at how quickly Barclay anticipated the move.
Everything appears to be ready.
GEORDI
(to COM)
Captain! Phasers are as hot as
we can make them!
23 INT. BRIDGE
The RED ALERT continues.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 16.
23 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Mister Worf.
WORF
Aye, sir.
Worf fires the phasers.
24 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
A narrow, intensely bright burst of phaser fire strikes
the probe for several seconds, then stops -- no change.
25 RESUME
RIKER
Nothing.
PICARD
Go to warp two.
ENSIGN ANAYA
Aye, sir.
(beat)
Warp two.
25A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at warp. The probe still alongside.
25B INT. BRIDGE
WORF
The probe is still with us, sir.
RIKER
At warp two?
WORF
Yessir.
DATA
Captain. The probe's energy
output is overloading our shields.
Failure anticipated in forty-seven
seconds.
Picard looks around.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT ONE 17.
25B CONTINUED:
PICARD
I'm willing to entertain
suggestions...
WORF
(interrupting)
Captain! We're dropping to
impulse.
26 INT. ENGINEERING
The RED ALERT continues. Barclay is still working
feverishly at his instrument panel.
LARSON
(puzzled)
Commander, warp power has been
transferred to the shield grid.
Equally surprised, Geordi glances at the instruments.
Then looks over at the cause -- Barclay.
GEORDI
Barclay, what are you doing?
Barclay holds up a "hold-on" finger, leans back from
the instrument panel as if finished with something,
hitting his insignia.
BARCLAY
(keys insignia)
Lieutenant Barclay to Captain
Picard. You can fire photon
torpedos. Maximum yield, full
spread.
27 INT. BRIDGE
RIKER
We're too close.
BARCLAY'S COM VOICE
Our shields will hold.
Picard and company react to the suggestion.
PICARD
(to COM)
La Forge?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/28/91 - ACT ONE 17A.
28 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is pouring over Barclay's instrument panel,
amazed.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 18.
28 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(to COM)
I don't know how Barclay did it,
but shield strength has been
increased by over three hundred
percent. It should be enough.
29 INT. BRIDGE
Continue RED ALERT as Geordi's words sink in.
PICARD
Mister Worf. Photon torpedos.
Maximum yield, full spread.
WORF
Aye.
Worf touches the panel as though it's his final act.
30 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
A full spread of photon torpedos fires away, hitting
the probe. There is a tremendous explosion.
31 INT. BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS
The ship is buffeted terribly for several seconds, then
everything calms suddenly down.
32 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Only the background -- the probe has vanished.
33 RESUME
Everyone reacts to the narrow escape. A beat as they
collect themselves.
PICARD
(to Com)
Thank you, Mister Barclay...
34 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi and Barclay.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT ONE 19.
34 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
(to COM)
You're welcome, Captain. Barclay
out.
Barclay turns to Geordi, who is looking at him.
BARCLAY
(continuing)
I'm sorry if I overstepped my
authority.
A beat.
GEORDI
Don't mention it...
OFF Geordi's still stunned reaction.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 20.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
35 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Holding position in front of the Argus Array.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 44705.3.
The Enterprise has destroyed the
alien probe. But now we are left
with the difficult task of
repairing the Argus Telescope.
Failure to do so would represent
an irreplaceable scientific loss.
35A INT. CORRIDOR
Barclay is walking slowly along towards a turbolift,
lost in thought as he glances over a PADD.
RIKER (O.S.)
Mister Barclay.
35B INCLUDE RIKER
catching up to Barclay, heading the same direction,
smiling with obvious admiration.
RIKER
(continuing)
... Everyone's still trying to
figure out exactly how you did
it.
BARCLAY
It... it just occurred to me that
I could set up a frequency
harmonic between the deflector
and the shield grid... using the
warp field generator as a power
flow anti-attenuator and that of
course naturally created an
amplification of the inherent
energy output. (TECH?)
Riker lost him a long time ago.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 21.
35B CONTINUED:
RIKER
Uh huh.
(beat)
Nice job.
36 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Data, Geordi, Troi. Barclay and Riker ENTER.
PICARD
Mister Barclay, I'm glad you could
join us.
(to Geordi)
Your report, Mister La Forge.
Geordi steps over to a schematic representation of the
Array on the monitor.
GEORDI
Each of the telescope's subspace
antenna clusters is powered by
its own fusion reactor. But a
single computer controls them all.
RIKER
So, all eighteen reactors were
affected when the computer was
damaged... ?
GEORDI
(nods)
They're starting to overload, and
could eventually go critical.
If that happens, the explosion
would destroy the Array. And I
wouldn't want to be next door if
that happens.
DATA
A standard isolation procedure
would be advisable.
GEORDI
(nodding)
I agree. We'll cut off each
reactor from the damaged control
system and repair them one by one.
RIKER
How long will that take?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT TWO 22.
36 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Two, three weeks -- at least.
PICARD
Alright then, Mister La Forge --
BARCLAY
(O.C.)
I don't agree.
A beat. Reactions. Everyone turns to Barclay. A
beat, as he rises, steps over to the schematic. There
is a steadiness in his voice we've never heard before.
BARCLAY
We could repair all the reactors
simultaneously instead of one by
one.
PICARD
(reacts)
Simultaneously? All eighteen?
BARCLAY
Yessir.
GEORDI
But the Argus computer is
inoperable.
BARCLAY
Not entirely. The core memory
is still intact. We could program
a completely new control system.
DATA
That is an interesting suggestion,
Lieutenant. However, such an
approach would require more time
than our original plan, at least
seven weeks.
BARCLAY
(studying the
schematics)
-- I can have it ready in two
days.
RIKER
(incredulous)
What?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT TWO 23.
36 CONTINUED: (2)
BARCLAY
(to Geordi)
If you could assist me in the
morning, Commander...
Geordi glances at Picard -- they share a reaction.
GEORDI
(awed)
Sure, Reg.
Glances at the others... the staff reacts with shock.
A beat.
37 ANGLE ON TROI
OFF the curiosity on her face.
38 INT. UNDRESSED STAGE
Same area as previous CYRANO scene, but with only a
chair. Barclay is sitting on it, not in costume but
in character. Beverly is not in character, but is
observing as instructor.
This is an acting class and it's much looser than the
scene we saw played previously. A few more students
are watching and waiting their turn. One of the
spectators is Troi, standing off to one side. This
time, Barclay is the consummate actor as he rehearses
the death scene.
BARCLAY
The moon -- yes, that will be my
home. My paradise. I shall find
there, all the souls I love --
Socrates, Galileo...
BARCLAY
(continuing)
"But what the devil is he doing
among us?"
(he raises himself,
declaiming)
Philosopher. Scientist. Poet,
musician, duellist -- Here lies
Hercule-Savinien De Cyrano de
Bergerac.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/28/91 - ACT TWO 24.
38 CONTINUED:
He falls back into the chair, half fainting. When he
gathers himself, he stares straight into Beverly's
eyes.
BARCLAY
(continuing)
I would not have you weep any
less for that charming, good,
handsome Christien. I only ask
this: that as the great cold
surrounds my bones, you allow a
double meaning to your mourning
veil. And when your tears fall
for him, some few will be... for
me.
The scene ends. Beverly has genuine tears in her eyes.
Troi is also impressed.
BEVERLY
(understatement)
That was... a real improvement.
Barclay comes out of character.
BARCLAY
Thank you, Doctor. Same time day
after tomorrow?
BEVERLY
Same time...
Barclay nods, smiling, and leaves the room. Beverly is
still moved -- and now, puzzled. She glances over at
Troi and they exchange a look -- they're both feeling
the same way.
38A INT. TEN-FORWARD
Barclay is sipping from a glass at a table, studying a
PADD. Troi steps over to his table, a cup of tea in
hand.
TROI
May I join you?
BARCLAY
Of course. Please... Sit down,
Counselor.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 25.
38A CONTINUED:
TROI
Hard at work?
BARCLAY
(re: PADD)
Getting prepared for tomorrow's
meeting in Engineering. We're
planning our repair strategy.
A beat.
TROI
I enjoyed the scene you just
performed.
BARCLAY
(laughs)
You're a very forgiving audience.
TROI
Not at all.
(a beat)
I thought you were brilliant.
Barclay smiles in response. Another beat as Troi
studies him carefully.
TROI
You've... changed.
BARCLAY
Is that a professional opinion?
TROI
Pure observation.
Barclay studies her for a moment.
BARCLAY
It's true. I can't explain it.
But in the last few days I've
found a confidence that I never
knew was there.
TROI
I'm proud of you, Reg... and I'm
glad for you, too.
He gives her a meaningful look -- not like a lounge
lizard, but like someone who has always had a crush and
is finally confident enough to act on it. Noting the
sexual tension, she decides it's time to leave.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 26.
38A CONTINUED: (2)
TROI
(stands)
Well, I'd better be going.
BARCLAY
Must you?
TROI
I... think so...
BARCLAY
(stands)
Wouldn't you like to take a walk
with me through the arboretum?
The zalnias should be in bloom...
TROI
Reg, as your former counselor...
I... don't think it would be
appropriate...
BARCLAY
-- I don't need a counselor. What
I need is the company of a
charming, intelligent woman.
Troi stares at him for a beat -- the offer is not
without its appeal. She decides against it. She rises
and Barclay follows suit.
TROI
(with a smile)
Goodnight, Mister Barclay.
He nods and returns her smile -- not at all feeling
rejected. Then sits back down as she leaves, watching
her go.
39 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Holding near the Array.
40 INT. ENGINEERING
BROWER and Larson are waiting around the pool table as
Geordi steps in with a PADD. Notices they're one
short.
GEORDI
Where's Lieutenant Barclay?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 27.
40 CONTINUED:
LARSON
I stopped by his quarters on my
way over. He wasn't there.
GEORDI
Computer, location of Lieutenant
Barclay.
COMPUTER VOICE
Holodeck Three.
Geordi scowls. Turns and quickly heads for the exit.
OFF the look between Brower and Larson.
41 INT. HOLODECK - CLOSE ON
a man who appears to be ALBERT EINSTEIN, writing a long
equation on a blackboard in the undressed holodeck.
The board is already covered with mathematical symbols.
EINSTEIN
G sub I J of t as t approaches
infinity...
A hand reaches in and rubs out the appropriate symbol.
BARCLAY (O.S.)
That's G of t over G-naught.
42 INCLUDE BARCLAY
standing next to Einstein, chalk in hand. He makes
the correction on the board as the great physicist
watches.
EINSTEIN
So it is, so it is.
Barclay points to a different part of the formula.
BARCLAY
I still don't see how you can
incorporate the quantum principle
into general relativity without
adjusting the cosmological
constant a lot more than you're
doing here.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 28.
42 CONTINUED:
EINSTEIN
If we increase the value as you
suggest, we must face the
possibility of twenty-six
dimensions, instead of ten!
BARCLAY
(laughs)
I'm not sure if I'm ready for
that.
EINSTEIN
(good humored)
I certainly am not.
Barclay thinks a moment. Points to the board.
BARCLAY
But if this semiset was curved
into the subatomic, the infinities
might cancel each other out.
Einstein gives Barclay an amazed look.
EINSTEIN
Gruss Gott. They just might.
As Einstein feverishly continues writing on the board,
the two hear someone CLEARING HIS THROAT. As they turn
towards the sound --
43 INCLUDE GEORDI
standing in the doorway, staring at the board --
clearly unable to decipher it.
GEORDI
We had a meeting at Oh-seven
hundred...
BARCLAY
I'm sorry, Commander.
(to Einstein)
Thank you, Professor.
(to computer)
End program.
Einstein DISAPPEARS in mid-chalk stroke. Barclay
quickly joins Geordi and they walk together out of the
holodeck.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 29.
43 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
What was that all about?
FOLLOW them outside and into corridor.
44 INT. CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS
Geordi and Barclay walking away from the holodeck.
BARCLAY
I had some ideas late last
night... I needed to consult the
computer about some quantum
electrodynamic calculations. A
holodeck Einstein program seemed
like the best way. I guess I went
a little overboard.
GEORDI
A little? Most of the stuff on
that blackboard was way out of
my league. Yours too.
BARCLAY
Not really. I just never thought
along those lines before. It's
all pretty evident now... I'm sure
if you put your mind to it --
Geordi stops, interrupting him.
GEORDI
-- Ever since our run-in with the
probe, something's been different
about you.
A long beat as Barclay looks at Geordi.
BARCLAY
Because I'm starting to behave
a little more like the rest of
the crew? With confidence in what
I'm doing?
GEORDI
(continuing)
You just spent the entire night
arguing Grand Unification Theories
with Albert Einstein!
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 30.
44 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
Yes, but --
GEORDI
-- Something's happened to you,
Reg. We can't ignore that.
Barclay pauses, looks at Geordi.
BARCLAY
I've finally become the person
I've always wanted to be. Do we
have to ask why?
A moment between them.
GEORDI
(reluctantly)
Yeah, I think we do...
45 INT. SICKBAY
Barclay is on a diagnostic bed, Beverly and Geordi
standing next to him. Beverly is looking at the data
displayed one the readout above the bed. She is
stunned by what she finds.
BEVERLY
Incredible. The production of
neurotransmitters in your brain
has jumped by over five hundred
percent. Pre and postsynaptic
membranes have increased their
permeability to match it.
(a beat)
I couldn't even guess at an I.Q.
level.
BARCLAY
Probably somewhere between twelve
hundred and fourteen fifty.
BEVERLY
But that isn't all.
She indicates a readout on the wall.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT TWO 31.
45 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(continuing)
The corpus callosum -- the
connecting bridge between the two
sides of the brain. It's so
active that the hemispheres have
essentially become one.
GEORDI
So it's not just raw intelligence
we're talking about.
BEVERLY
Creativity, imagination,
resourcefulness, inspiration --
it's all been enhanced.
A beat as they consider the implications.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
Lieutenant, you are the most
advanced human being who has ever
lived.
OFF everyone's reactions.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 32.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
45A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
By the Array.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log; supplemental.
Apparently as a result of his
exposure to the alien probe,
Lieutenant Barclay has gained an
extraordinary new level of
intelligence. The question now
is -- how are we to deal with it?
46 INT. READY ROOM
Picard, Beverly, Geordi, Troi, and Riker.
RIKER
We could confine him to his
quarters.
GEORDI
How can we do that? What's he
done? You're talking about
locking him up for being too
smart.
RIKER
If he's under an alien influence,
doesn't that put us all at risk?
BEVERLY
Not necessarily. For all we know
it could be more like a simple
allergic reaction to a bee
sting...
PICARD
(a beat)
Has Mister Barclay done anything
that could be considered
potentially threatening?
TROI
He did make a pass at me last
night.
They react. Riker particularly, raises an eyebrow.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 33.
46 CONTINUED:
TROI
(continuing)
A good one.
GEORDI
I wouldn't exactly call that a
threat.
TROI
No, but it's definitely unusual
behavior for Barclay.
BEVERLY
(corroborating)
He taught violin technique at the
music school last night.
RIKER
I didn't know Barclay even played
the violin.
BEVERLY
He didn't... until last night.
A beat.
GEORDI
Look... if we want to save the
Array, we need Barclay... It's
as simple as that...
Picard considers for a beat.
PICARD
Until he does something more
menacing than what's been
described -- I see no reason why
we should prevent him from
continuing his work.
LARSON'S COM VOICE
Larson to Commander La Forge.
GEORDI
(to COM)
Go ahead, Lieutenant.
47 INT. ENGINEERING
Barclay, Brower, and Larson are at their respective
consoles, working as quickly as possible.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 34.
47 CONTINUED:
LARSON
(to COM)
We're having trouble containing
reactor nine, sir. It's starting
to chain.
48 INT. READY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Geordi glances at Picard, who nods his permission.
GEORDI
(to COM)
I'll be right there.
Geordi takes off towards the door. As the others begin
to leave, Riker moves next to Deanna -- with a twinkle
in his eye; no jealousy intended...
RIKER
You said he made a pass... you
forgot to mention whether it was
successful or not...
Deanna controls a grin, EXITS without answering...
49 INT. ENGINEERING
Barclay, Larson and Brower at their respective control
panels. Geordi is quickly moving between them and
other stations, coordinating the work. It's damage
control time.
BARCLAY
Thermal levels up one hundred
seventy seven percent. Comparable
increase in neutron emissions.
GEORDI
Is the interface between our
computer and the Array still in
operation?
BARCLAY
Yes.
(re: instruments)
But our computer is just too slow
to direct the repairs; the
parameters are changing too
quickly for it to keep up.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 35.
49 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
We'll have to try a remote
shutdown from here.
LARSON
Transmitting commands to the Array
now, Sir. Starting close down
sequence.
BARCLAY
(to Brower)
Brower, increase the intake of
liquid Helium Three into the
reactor wall. We've got to cool
it off.
BROWER
(working panel)
Transmitting commands...
(alarmed)
Thermal levels increasing!
Geordi rushes over.
GEORDI
What happened?
BARCLAY
Unclear... the interface isn't
fast enough.
Barclay's fingers are flying over the keyboard. He's
frustrated.
LARSON
Commander La Forge! Overload
indications on Argus generator
Five...
(a beat as he looks at
instruments)
Seven and Fourteen.
La Forge quickly moves over to Larson.
GEORDI
Damn.
50 ON BARCLAY
thinking out loud.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 36.
50 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
Can't do anything from here...
I've got to have a better
interface...
Barclay pushes away from the console.
51 RESUME
GEORDI
(to COM)
La Forge to Bridge. We're looking
at a cascade reactor failure on
the Argus.
In the background, Barclay disappears unnoticed out
the door.
52 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Ensign Anaya.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
I don't think we're gonna pull
this one out.
DATA
(off instruments)
Reactor Nine will reach critical
in ten minutes, forty three
seconds. The subsequent explosion
will create a chain reaction along
the entire length of the Array.
53 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
As Picard considers the vast structure for a beat.
RIKER
(to COM)
La Forge. You've got ten minutes.
PICARD
(to Anaya)
Ensign, standby for a jump to warp
two.
ENSIGN ANAYA
Yes, Sir.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 37.
53 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Mister Worf, Red Alert.
WORF
Aye, Commander.
Worf touches he panel and the RED ALERT KLAXONS and
LIGHTS begin.
54 INT. CORRIDOR
Barclay is hurrying along the corridor, RED ALERT
alarms blaring around him. He reaches a door marked
HOLODECK THREE.
The door opens and he heads through it. FOLLOW him
inside.
55 INT. HOLODECK - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Barclay steps quickly into the bare room.
BARCLAY
Computer.
COMPUTER VOICE
Standing by.
BARCLAY
Begin new program. Create as
follows: Work station chair.
A chair MATERIALIZES in front of him. He sits down
in it.
BARCLAY
(continuing)
Create a standard alpha-numeric
console positioned for left hand.
A console MATERIALIZES on his left.
BARCLAY
(continuing)
... Now, an iconic display console
positioned for right hand.
Another work station console MATERIALIZES to his
immediate right. Barclay sits in the chair, begins
testing both consoles...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 38.
55 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
(continuing)
Tie both consoles into the
Enterprise main computer core,
utilizing a neural scan interface.
COMPUTER VOICE
(a beat)
There is no such device on file.
BARCLAY
No problem. Here's how you build
it...
56
thru OMITTED
57
58 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Ensign Anaya. As the RED
ALERT continues.
DATA
Argus Reactor Nine is twenty-eight
seconds to critical.
RIKER
Let's get out of here.
PICARD
Warp two, Ensign.
ENSIGN ANAYA
Yes, Sir.
Before she can execute the command, several of the
console and display lights suddenly GO OUT on the
Bridge.
ENSIGN ANAYA
Helm is not responding.
WORF
Captain! We have lost computer
control!
RIKER
What?
DATA
Twelve seconds to critical, Sir...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 39.
58 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(quickly to Anaya)
Go to manual.
Ensign Anaya attempts in vain to manually engage the
helm...
ENSIGN ANAYA
I'm attempting to, sir... but
it's...
RIKER
There's not enough time...
The console lights suddenly brighten back to normal.
As everyone reacts to these unexpected events --.
WORF
The computer is coming back on
line, sir.
DATA
(puzzled; off
instruments)
Captain, the Argus reactors are
shutting down.
(to Picard)
We are no longer in danger.
PICARD
What happened?
DATA
(checking)
Unknown, sir...
RIKER
La Forge, what did you do?
59 INT. ENGINEERING
GEORDI
Wasn't me, sir.
60 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD
Computer, how were the Argus
reactors shut down?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT THREE 40.
60 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY'S VOICE
A neural interface was created
to expedite the repairs.
Reactions.
RIKER
Barclay?
Puzzled reactions.
PICARD
Computer! Respond.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I am responding, sir. I'm sorry
if I caused you any alarm. It
was necessary in order to secure
the Array.
Everyone is stunned.
RIKER
Barclay?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Yes, Commander...
61
thru OMITTED
62
63 INT. HOLODECK
Barclay is in his chair, the two consoles around him.
Hovering above is a massive half-globe shaped laser
scanner that continuously plays tiny laser lights over
Barclay's head. Conduits of all sizes and shapes lead
away from the device to the walls of the holodeck,
effectively wiring Barclay in.
His LIPS DO NOT MOVE when he speaks.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
(continuing)
It's me...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
(NOTE: Red Alert ends during the act break.)
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 41.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
64 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Motionless in space next to the Array.
65 OMITTED
66 INT. HOLODECK
Picard, Riker, Geordi and Worf are staring at Barclay
in his interface chair, the tiny lasers continuously
scanning his head. His lips are not moving as he
speaks. Red Alert has been cancelled.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I was only trying to help. Our
computer was too slow to
compensate for the overload on
the Array. So I created an
interface that communicated my
thoughts directly to the central
processing unit.
RIKER
Exactly what does that mean?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
My body is as you see it here.
But much of my higher brain
functions and memory have been
transferred to the starboard
computer core.
A beat as the officers all look at each other. Picard
turns to Barclay.
PICARD
Mister Barclay, please remove
yourself from the computer system
and leave the holodeck.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I'm afraid I can't, Sir.
PICARD
Why is that?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 2/1/91 - ACT FOUR 42.
66 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY'S VOICE
My primary cerebral functions
are now operating almost entirely
from within the computer. They
have expanded to such a degree
that it would be impossible to
return to the confines of my
human brain.
A beat.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
(continuing)
Any attempt to do so would mean
my death.
OFF the reactions.
66A
thru OMITTED
67
68 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE - ON GEORDI
finishing up at a wall panel that has been removed to
expose some circuitry beneath.
GEORDI
That's it.
69 INCLUDE SENIOR STAFF
Picard, Riker, Worf, Data sitting at the conference
table. Geordi replaces the panel.
GEORDI
(continuing)
I disconnected the visual and
audio pickups. We can talk
without being monitored by...
(hesitates)
the computer...
WORF
By Barclay.
Geordi joins them at the table.
PICARD
(to Geordi)
Report, Commander.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 43.
69 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
It's now almost impossible to tell
where Barclay ends and the
computer begins. He's actually
rewriting the isolinear chips each
time he extends himself a little
further.
RIKER
How do we get him out of there?
GEORDI
We don't. Not without killing
him.
PICARD
(beat)
This is an intolerable
situation... I have no wish to
harm him, but we cannot allow
Mister Barclay to continue to act
as the ship's computer... I don't
care how smart he is.
DATA
Lieutenant Barclay has not yet
extended himself into the
Engineering subsystems. It may
be possible to establish an ODN
bypass directly to the Bridge.
PICARD
That won't give us control of
the ship.
GEORDI
No... But we would have access
to the propulsion systems. Enough
to get us to the nearest
Starbase.
RIKER
How long would it take to set
it up?
GEORDI
A few hours.
PICARD
Make it so.
All rising...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 44.
69 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Should we... discuss this with
Barclay, Captain?
PICARD
I think not.
70 INT. JEFFRIES TUBE
Geordi is working in a Jeffries Tube.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Commander La Forge?
A pause, as Geordi debates whether to respond. He
keeps working.
GEORDI
Yeah, Reg?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I thought you would be in your
quarters.
GEORDI
Just catching up on some work.
(lying)
That level-3 diagnostic we
talked about.
(beat)
How're you doing?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
(a beat)
I wish I could convey to you what
it's like for me now. What I've
become...
GEORDI
Give it a try.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I can conceive almost infinite
possibilities, and can fully
explore each of them in a
nanosecond. I perceive the
universe as a single equation,
and it is so simple, I...
understand...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 45.
70 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Understand?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
(beat)
...everything.
GEORDI
Do you understand how this
happened to you?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I believe it is a gift... that
I have been chosen to fulfill a
great purpose...
GEORDI
(concerned)
Uh huh.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
(a beat, suddenly
concerned)
Do you suppose all this has
changed the way people think about
me?
Geordi is touched for a moment -- it's still the real
Barclay somewhere in there.
GEORDI
I'll be honest with you. We don't
know what to think.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I've been concerned about that.
(a beat)
But soon everyone will
understand what I can do for
humanity.
GEORDI
They will... ?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
We have always perceived the
maximum speed of the Enterprise
as a function of warp... but I
know now there are no limits...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FOUR 46.
70 CONTINUED: (2)
BARCLAY'S VOICE (Cont'd)
We will explore new worlds that
we could never before have reached
in our lifetime. I will take us
to them...
Off Geordi's reaction...
71 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Ensign Anaya. Worf looks up
in alarm from his instruments.
WORF
Captain! I am picking up a
subspace distortion.
72 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
where the stars appear to be stretching away from the
Enterprise.
PICARD
Mister Data?
DATA
(off instruments)
This disturbance is the result
of a highly charged graviton field
emanating from our warp nacelles.
It is creating a severe bias in
the subspace continuum.
Everyone reacts. A beat.
PICARD
Lieutenant Barclay, are you
responsible for this graviton
field disturbance?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Yessir, I'm altering subspace
in a way that's never been
conceived of before. I'm fairly
certain it will allow us to travel
half-way across the galaxy in a
matter of only...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 47.
72 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Mister Barclay, I'd like you to
hold off on this experiment for
now.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Captain, if you'd only allow
me...
PICARD
Lieutenant, this is a direct
order. Discontinue whatever it
is you're doing.
A beat.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I really would rather not, sir.
I'm positive you'll be pleased
with the result once I've
finished.
Picard glances at Worf, gives him the CUT OFF sign.
Worf touches the controls.
WORF
Audio is disconnected. We may
speak freely.
RIKER
(to Data)
How soon before the ODN bypass
is in place?
DATA
I have been monitoring Commander
La Forge's progress. It will
be operational in approximately
seventeen minutes.
TROI
(to Picard)
Captain, let me go to the
holodeck. Try to talk to him.
WORF
(off instruments)
Sir, the subspace distortion is
continuing to increase...
Picard nods to Troi... she EXITS.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 48.
72A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship hovering near the distortion.
72B INT. HOLODECK (FORMERLY SCENE 72A)
The door opens and Troi ENTERS. She is taken aback by
the sight of Barclay all plugged in. As before, when
he speaks, his mouth does not move.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Hello, Deanna.
TROI
Reg...
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I'm sorry that we can't take that
walk in the Arboretum.
TROI
So am I.
(beat)
Reg, you've frightened everyone...
I can't imagine that is your
intent.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Young children are sometimes
frightened of the world. That
doesn't mean their parents should
let them stay in their cribs.
TROI
Are we children to you, now?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I can see so much more than you
are capable of. You should trust
that.
A beat.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
(continuing)
Deanna, I've always wanted to earn
your respect.
TROI
You've got it... From all of us.
We don't need any more convincing.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 49.
72B CONTINUED:
TROI (Cont'd)
Please obey the Captain's
orders... stop whatever you're
doing...
BARCLAY'S VOICE
You must trust me...
TROI
How are we to trust an officer
who doesn't follow orders... ?
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Trust me...
A beat as Troi gives up.
TROI
The Captain will do everything
in his power to stop you.
She waits a beat, there is no further replay... she
turns and EXITS.
73 INT. JEFFRIES TUBE
The RED ALERT SOUNDS. Geordi reacts.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard to La Forge. Status?
Geordi makes one final adjustment in his work.
GEORDI
Ready now, Captain.
PICARD
Proceed.
GEORDI
Acknowledged.
He quickly puts his hand to an interface and works the
controls.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Commander?
GEORDI
(startled)
What.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - 1/25/91 - ACT FOUR 50.
73 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY'S VOICE
You're too late.
74 INT. BRIDGE
Troi is back on the Bridge. Data looks up from his
console.
DATA
(surprised)
Captain, the ODN bypass to the
Bridge has been blocked. We have
not regained control of the
propulsion systems.
75 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
The intense horizontal curvature of space is beginning
to glow.
RIKER
(to computer)
Barclay!
BARCLAY'S VOICE
Yes, Commander Riker?
RIKER
(re: viewscreen)
Shut that thing down!
76 OMITTED
77 RESUME
No response. All are facing the viewscreen.
WORF
Captain. We are going in.
78 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
as the ship begins to move slowly toward the
distortion.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 51.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
79
thru OMITTED
81
82 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship is inexorably heading towards the disturbance
-- which has now begun to assume a more tunnel-like
appearance. The stars inside and along the edges look
stretched.
83 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD
Mister Barclay!
(beat)
Respond at once!
Still no answer. Picard motions Worf to cut the
audio...
WORF
Audio is disconnected.
PICARD
(to Worf)
Lieutenant, take a security team
to Holodeck Three.
(beat)
Disconnect Mister Barclay from
the computer.
WORF
(understanding
implication)
Aye, Captain.
Worf quickly heads for the door.
84 OMITTED
84A INT. HOLODECK
The door opens and Worf and TWO N. D. SECURITY MEN
ENTER, phasers in hand.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 52.
85 INCLUDE BARCLAY
plugged into the interface. He seems to be in a
higher state of consciousness... hardly acknowledges
Worf's arrival. The ship suddenly SHAKES. Worf and
his men steady themselves, then head quickly towards
Barclay, BOUNCING OFF a force field directly in front
of him. They quickly recover.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
I want you to know, Lieutenant
Worf, that I understand your duty
in this matter...
WORF
Phasers. Maximum setting
All three pull their phasers.
BARCLAY'S VOICE
(continuing)
... and that I in no way will take
your actions personally.
WORF
The conduits.
They aim at the interface unit above Barclay's head.
Again, the ship SHAKES.
WORF
Fire.
They fire -- with no result. The force field holds.
Suddenly, the entire room JOLTS violently to one side,
then back. Worf and the others fall...
86 OMITTED
87 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship has been drawn into the 'tunnel'... the ship
moves incredibly fast -- stars blur by at an
extraordinary rate...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 53.
88
thru OMITTED
91
92 INT. BRIDGE
SHAKING. The staff is holding on... watching the
viewscreen. There is a change becoming apparent --
as everything on the Bridge, including personnel and
voices, starts to distort. The effect continues
through Scenes 92 and 96.
RIKER
(to Con)
La Forge! Initiate stabilization
procedure!
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Resetting stabilizers to match
subspace flow matrix... stand
by...
Slowly, the ship STABILIZES...
PICARD
Mister Data... ?
DATA
(off instruments)
We are experiencing a quantum
level oscillation delay...
Doubling in intensity, every
twelve point three seconds...
Worf ENTERS from the turbolift...
WORF
(reporting)
He is protected by a force
field... we could not disconnect
him.
RIKER
Data, how long can we take this?
DATA
Bio-cellular disruption is
imminent.
Everyone holds on for a few difficult beats.
ENSIGN ANAYA
(re: viewscreen)
Sir!
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 54.
93
thru OMITTED
95
96 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Where all the star lines converge into one bright mass,
which we approach at immense speed, until it engulfs
the screen, and we burst through... with a WHITEOUT...
97 RESUME
Everything on the Bridge is suddenly normal. Everyone
reacts.
RIKER
Where are we, Ensign?
ENSIGN ANAYA
(off instruments,
amazed)
Unless something is wrong with
the sensors... We're almost
thirty thousand light years from
where we were.
Everyone reacts with astonishment.
98 OMITTED
98A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
surrounded by more stars than we've ever seen before
-- there's more light than the blackness of space.
98B INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Include viewscreen... Everyone stares in amazement
at the countless stars.
PICARD
(awed)
The center of the galaxy.
ENSIGN ANAYA
Sir, our heading has been altered.
Approaching a planetary cluster.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 55.
98B CONTINUED:
DATA
(off instruments)
Captain, all systems are back
under helm control. The computer
has resumed normal functioning.
Suddenly, directly in front of the viewscreen appears
a holographic-type image of an alien being. It is an
odd combination of intense curiosity, lightheartedness,
quickness and benevolence.
WORF
Captain!
Worf quickly moves to position himself between it and
Picard, pulling his phaser.
ALIEN
(re: Worf's action)
Emotive. Electro-chemical
stimulus-response.
(a beat)
Cranial plate.
Picard puts out a hand, holding Worf off. Worf stops.
They all watch the alien as it takes them in, glancing
quickly around the Bridge.
ALIEN
(continuing)
Bipedal locomotion. Endoskeletal.
Contiguous external integument.
PICARD
I am Jean-Luc Picard, Captain of
the Federation Starship
Enterprise.
ALIEN
(aha!)
Hierarchical collective command
structure!
PICARD
Who are you?
ALIEN
(still describing what
it sees)
Interrogative.
Picard realizes it's describing him.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 56.
98B CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
Yes. I am interrogative... And
I would appreciate an
explanation...
BARCLAY (O.C.)
I believe I can help with that,
Captain.
98C ANGLE - BARCLAY
has arrived from the turbolift... walking toward
command... He is returning to normal... a little
rattled by the experience.
RIKER
Mister Barclay. I thought it
would be fatal if you left the
holodeck.
BARCLAY
The Cytherians have reintegrated
me, sir.
ALIEN
(affirming)
Cytherians.
BARCLAY
The probe was designed to instruct
outsiders on how to reach this
system. But the technologies
aren't always compatible. It
failed with the Argus computer,
and with the computer on the
shuttle. But it was able to
reprogram... me.
PICARD
(to the alien)
What do you want of us?
ALIEN
The same as you.
PICARD
(explain)
Mister Barclay... ?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 57.
98C CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
You both have the same mission,
Captain...
PICARD
Mission... ?
BARCLAY
Yessir. The Cytherians are
exploring the galaxy just as we
are... The difference is they
never leave their home -- they
bring others here. They only wish
an exchange of knowledge...
(beat)
They want to know us.
The alien hologram nods and grins at Picard. Picard
glances at Riker, who smiles -- he knows what Picard's
decision will be.
99 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
At impulse speed through normal space.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 44721.9.
The Cytherians have returned the
Enterprise to Federation space.
We bring back knowledge of their
race that will take our scholars
decades to examine. Lieutenant
Barclay is apparently no worse
for his experience.
100
thru OMITTED
102
103 INT. TEN-FORWARD
Geordi, Troi, and Barclay are standing at the bar.
Several couples and others dot the lounge, including
two crew members playing three dimensional chess.
Barclay seems basically his pre-transformation self.
TROI
How much do you remember?
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 58.
103 CONTINUED:
BARCLAY
I can still remember doing
everything -- I just can't
remember how or why.
There's a melancholy in his look... he can't disguise
it. Troi and Geordi exchange a glance.
TROI
And how do you feel now?
BARCLAY
(sad chuckle)
Smaller...
GEORDI
Just plain old Barclay, huh...
BARCLAY
It always seems to come back to
that, doesn't it..
TROI
Most everyone has a moment in
their lives when they exceed their
own limits... achieve what seems
to be impossible...
GEORDI
The tricky part is what happens
afterwards.
TROI
(nodding)
You almost always feel a sense
of loss. But it's possible to
carry something of that experience
through the rest of your life --
in ways that you're not even aware
of now.
BARCLAY
I... I think I see what you're
saying...
GEORDI
Either way, you're an important
part of this crew.
(rising)
In fact, I could use your help
tackling that level-3
diagnostic...
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 59.
103 CONTINUED: (2)
Barclay and Troi rise too...
BARCLAY
Sure...
TROI
Excuse me, Commander... but I
believe Mister Barclay and I had
a date scheduled for a walk in
the Arboretum... ?
Barclay reacts, walks into a chair, stumbles a
tad... she supports him...
GEORDI
The diagnostic can wait. See you
later...
He EXITS.
BARCLAY
You don't... don't have to do
this, you know...
TROI
(grins, takes his arm,
leading him)
I know.
He smiles and as they walk past two players at the
chess game... he glances and pauses. He looks at one
of the players.
BARCLAY
May I?
The player nods, giving a look of: "go ahead, I'm losing
anyway." Barclay moves a piece on the board.
BARCLAY
(continuing)
Checkmate in nine moves.
The players react... so does Troi, and Barclay leads
the way out...
TROI
I didn't know you played chess.
STAR TREK: "The Nth Degree" - REV. 1/29/91 - ACT FIVE 60.
103 CONTINUED: (3)
BARCLAY
(surprised)
I don't.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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