startrek-ml/Data/Tng/267.txt

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                         "Lower Decks" 
                          #40277-267 
                              
                           Story by 
            Ronald Wilkerson & Jean Louise Matthias 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                        Rene Echevarria 
                              
                          Directed by 
                      Gabrielle Beaumont 


THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.

Copyright 1993 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.

                         FINAL DRAFT


          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" - 11/17/93 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                         "Lower Decks" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD                 OGAWA
                RIKER                  BEN
                DATA                   JORET
                BEVERLY                LAVELLE
                TROI                   SITO
                WORF                   TAURIK
                GEORDI             
                Non-Speaking           Non-Speaking
                  N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES   N.D. PATIENT

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" - 11/17/93 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                         "Lower Decks" 
                       
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              BRIDGE
              TEN FORWARD              SHUTTLECRAFT
              ENGINEERING
              SICKBAY
              BEVERLY'S OFFICE
              CORRIDOR
              TURBOLIFT
              READY ROOM
              SHUTTLEBAY
              RIKER'S QUARTERS
              SHIP'S GYMNASIUM
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE
              SHUTTLECRAFT
              LAVELLE/TAURIK'S QUARTERS

   STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" - 11/17/93 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                         "Lower Decks" 
                        
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

                   ARGAYA          ar-GUY-yah
                   CARSTAIRS       CAR-stares
                   JANALAN         jah-NAH-len
                   JORET DAL       jo-RET DAHL
                   LAVELLE         lah-VELL
                   TAURIK          TOR-ick
                   TRAKIAN         TRAY-kee-un
                   VEDEKS          VEH-decks

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - TEASER         1.

               "Star Trek: The Next Generation"                 
                        "Lower Decks"                              
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    INT. TEN FORWARD

	TROI and RIKER are sitting at a table looking over a
	PADD. The usual complement of N.D's fill the room.

	A waiter stands at a nearby table, wiping it clean.
	His name is BEN, and though Riker and Troi don't
	notice, he's eavesdropping on their conversation.

					RIKER
			Fletcher has more experience with
			propulsion systems --

					TROI
			But Carstairs is better with
			people. Considering this is a
			supervisory position, I'd go with
			her.

					RIKER
				(considers)
			You're probably right...

	Riker works the PADD, leans back and rubs his eyes as
	if they're tired.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			Didn't we just finish a Crew
			Evaluation Report?

					TROI
				(smiles)
			That was three months ago.

					RIKER
			Feels like three weeks. Maybe we
			should just give everyone a
			promotion and call it a night.
				(smiles)
			What do you say... Commander?

					TROI
				(smiles)
			Fine with me... Captain.

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - TEASER         2.

2    NEW ANGLE

	revealing a table in the corner from which four junior
	officers are watching Riker and Troi -- who can be seen
	in the background laughing over something one of them
	has said.

	Two of them are recognizable: ALYSSA OGAWA, Beverly's
	Nurse, and Ensign SITO JAXA, the young Bajoran woman
	from "First Duty." As we'll see, the Nova Squadron
	incident has left Sito a little unsure of herself;
	determined to get her career back on track but
	desperate to avoid making another mistake, she's become
	very cautious, very by-the-book.

	The group is rounded out by a Vulcan male named TAURIK
	and a human male named LAVELLE. Like Sito, they are
	both in their early to mid-twenties. Lavelle is
	bright, handsome and personable -- think of Riker
	twelve years ago. Taurik is extremely intelligent and
	knows it -- he has enormous confidence in his own
	abilities.

					LAVELLE
			Why do they keep laughing? What's
			so funny about Crew Evaluations?

					OGAWA
			Don't worry about it, Sam.

					SITO
			Let's just try and have a good
			time.

					LAVELLE
			How can I have a good time when my
			career's being decided across the
			room?

	Lavelle crosses his fingers, closes his eyes...

					LAVELLE
				(continuing, quiet)
			Think promotion... promotion...
			promotion...

	Taurik regards him disapprovingly.

					TAURIK
			You can't really believe this will
			influence the outcome of your
			evaluation?

	Lavelle ignores him, continues his quiet chant. The
	others see Taurik's annoyance and can't resist teasing
	him.

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - TEASER         3.

2    CONTINUED:

					OGAWA
			It's a time-honored strategy,
			Taurik.

					SITO
			The Vedeks of the Janalan order
			maintain a round-the-clock chant
			for the well-being of the Bajoran
			people.

					TAURIK
			Considering the history of your
			planet, that doesn't exactly
			validate what he's doing.

	Sito shrugs to concede him the point, but Lavelle is
	finally exasperated by the relentlessness of Taurik's
	logic. The efficacy of what Sam is doing is
	questionable.

					LAVELLE
			Promote me, please -- so I can
			make Lieutenant and have my own
			room.

					TAURIK
			If you aren't happy sharing
			quarters with me, then you should
			put in for a new room assignment.
				(beat)
			Just in case you're not promoted.

	Sito and Ogawa smile at Taurik's remark.

3    ON RIKER AND TROI

	Ben is approaching them with TWO COFFEES.

					RIKER
			I've been thinking about who to
			promote to Ops --

					TROI
			The new night duty officer?

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - TEASER         4.

3    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(acknowledges)
			Lavelle's an obvious candidate,
			but I'm considering Ensign Sito as
			well.

	Ben sets the coffees down.

					BEN
				(to Troi)
			You sure about dessert?

					TROI
			Yes. Don't tempt me.

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - TEASER         5.

3    CONTINUED: (2)

	Ben smiles and moves off; we FOLLOW HIM as he
	approaches the junior officer's table.

	Ben is about the same age as the others; has an easy
	smile and wit. He signed aboard a Starship for fun and
	adventure, and as a civilian, isn't subject to the
	pressures of Starfleet. He likes nothing more than to
	kid his friends about how seriously they take
	everything.

					LAVELLE
			Are they working on the crew
			evaluations?

					BEN
			Yep.

					SITO
			Who were they talking about?

					BEN
			It's not my place to say...

					SITO
			Come on, Ben.

					LAVELLE
			Please.

					BEN
			All right, but I'm not sure you're
			going to like it...

	They react --

					BEN
				(continuing)
			Apparently... you're both up for
			the same job...

	Everyone reacts. Sito and Lavelle look at each
	other... wondering how this will affect their
	friendship... Off this moment we...

                                             FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE         6.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

          (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)            

4    INT. BRIDGE

	At Red Alert, Sito is at Tactical, Lavelle at the Conn,
	DATA at Ops -- Riker is giving a series of rapid-fire
	orders from the Command Area. Various N.D's as needed.

					RIKER
			Lock phasers on target --

					SITO
				(works)
			Phasers locked --

					DATA
				(off console)
			The enemy vessel is firing.

					RIKER
			Helm, hard to starboard!

					LAVELLE
				(works)
			Hard starboard --

					RIKER
			Fire phasers!

	Sito works the console but it takes her a moment to
	comply -- Worf turns from the aft station to watch as
	she recovers and fires.

					SITO
			Firing --

	We hear the SOUND of phasers firing.

					DATA
			Target is destroyed.

					RIKER
			End simulation sequence and secure
			from drill.

	Red Alert ends and Riker studies a read-out.

      STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT ONE      6A.

4    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(continuing, to all)
			Alpha shift, your response time
			was seven percent slower than
			gamma shift --

	Everyone on the Bridge reacts to this disappointing
	news.

4A   INT. ENGINEERING

	where Taurik, Geordi, and a few N.D's are listening.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			I'd like all departments to submit
			drill evaluation reports by oh
			nine hundred hours --

					GEORDI
			Ensign, you'll write that report.

					TAURIK
			Yes, sir.

4B   INT. BRIDGE

	Continuous.

					RIKER
			Let's see if we can find a way to
			close that gap.

	Riker turns to Sito.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			What happened back there, Ensign?

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE         7.

4B   CONTINUED:

	Sito explains, a little nervously.

					SITO
			I'm sorry, sir. When we changed
			course I had to re-lock the
			phasers before I could fire.

					RIKER
			Next time try letting the locking
			relay float until the actual order
			to fire is given.

	Sito acknowledges.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			They may not teach that trick at
			the Academy, but it works.

					SITO
			Thank you, sir.

	Riker turns to Lavelle.

					RIKER
			Lavelle...

					LAVELLE
			Sir?

	There is a moment of anticipation on Lavelle's face, as
	if he's hoping to be complimented.

					RIKER
			Resume previous course and speed.

	A flicker of disappointment crosses Lavelle's features.

					LAVELLE
				(all business)
			Aye, aye sir.

					RIKER
			One "aye" is sufficient
			acknowledgment, Ensign.

	Lavelle's face flushes with embarrassment. PICARD
	ENTERS from the Ready Room and approaches Riker.

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE         8.

4B   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Helm, change course for the Argaya
			system -- maximum warp.

					LAVELLE
			Aye, sir.

					RIKER
			What about our rendezvous with the
			Clement?

					PICARD
			I've just received new orders from
			Starfleet. We'll discuss it in
			the Observation Lounge.

	Data stands to join Picard and Worf as they cross
	toward the Observation Lounge. Lavelle looks over at
	Data's vacant chair -- someone is going to have to man
	Ops and he hopes he is chosen. Riker glances at him,
	then back toward Sito.

					RIKER
			Ensign Sito, you'll fill in at
			Ops.

	Lavelle tries not to show his disappointment.

					SITO
			Yes, sir.

	She crosses toward the chair as the senior officers
	EXIT into the Observation Lounge.

	She takes a seat and orients herself, pushes a few
	controls. It's an awkward moment; the two friends are
	still grappling with the fact that they're competitors,
	and now they have to sit side by side. She senses
	Lavelle's disappointment that he wasn't chosen and
	tries to steer the conversation elsewhere.

					SITO
				(continuing, quiet)
			The Argaya system is close to the
			Cardassian border; I wonder why
			we're going there.

	He shrugs, doesn't join in her speculation.

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE         9.

4B   CONTINUED: (3)

					SITO
				(continuing)
			How would you like to be a spider
			under that table?

					LAVELLE
				(turns to her)
			What?

					SITO
				(gesturing back toward
				 the Observation lounge)
			A spider under the table --

					LAVELLE
			Is that like a fly on the wall?

					SITO
				(smiles)
			I guess so.

	He smiles -- the awkwardness between them evaporates.
	(NOTE: as they talk, they should occasionally work
	their controls.)

					SITO
				(continuing)
			You did really well during the
			drill.

					LAVELLE
			Apparently Commander Riker didn't
			think so. I swear he's got it in
			for me.

					SITO
			You're imagining things.

					LAVELLE
			Oh, yeah? Then how come you're
			sitting in that chair instead of
			me?

	Sito tries to make light of it.

					SITO
			Maybe he figured I need more
			practice than you do.

	He smiles and they turn their attentions to their
	consoles... Off this moment...

5    OMITTED

      STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT ONE      10.

6    INT. ENGINEERING

	Taurik is working at the pool table; GEORDI ENTERS and
	starts to cross past.

					TAURIK
			Excuse me, sir... do you have a
			minute?

					GEORDI
			Sure. What is it?

					TAURIK
			I'd like you to take a look at
			something.

	Geordi smiles slightly. Apparently this isn't unusual
	for Taurik.

					GEORDI
			Have you been improvising again,
			Ensign?

					TAURIK
			In a manner of speaking. I'm
			running a computer simulation to
			test a new warp-field
			configuration.

	Geordi studies the console indicated by Taurik.

					GEORDI
			You've got a problem right here...
			the plasma flow in the nacelles is
			out of sync.

					TAURIK
			Actually, sir, that was done
			deliberately.

	Geordi reacts; clearly this isn't how it's ordinarily
	done.

					TAURIK
				(continuing)
			As you can see, this configuration
			has increased overall warp-field
			integrity by seven percent.

					GEORDI
				(off console)
			You're right...

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT ONE     10A.

6    CONTINUED:

					TAURIK
			Doctor Nils Diaz has been
			experimenting with this technique
			at the Tanaline Propulsion
			Laboratory.

	Geordi is studying the read-outs.

					GEORDI
			I know his work, but I never heard
			anything about this...

					TAURIK
			His findings have not been
			released yet. I was able to
			review a preliminary report when
			I was at the Academy.

					GEORDI
			I'll look forward to reading about
			it...

					TAURIK
			I predict that when these findings
			are made public, they will become
			a new model for warp field
			operation.

					GEORDI
			Sounds interesting.

					TAURIK
			With your permission, I would like
			to begin tests to see if the
			technique can be adapted to our
			warp drive.

	Geordi studies the monitor as he considers...

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE        11.

6    CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
			I don't know... There could be
			variables you didn't account for.

	Taurik considers the possibility.

					TAURIK
			I was quite thorough.

					GEORDI
			I'm sure you were... but I'd like
			to look over your simulation
			before I authorize any tests.

					TAURIK
			As you wish.

					GEORDI
			If you have any other ideas for
			improving efficiency, feel free to
			run them by me.

					TAURIK
			As a matter of fact, sir, I do --
			when would be a good time to
			discuss them?

	The only reason Geordi restrains himself is because he
	asked for it.

					GEORDI
			I'll get back to you on that...

	Geordi moves off; Taurik watches him go for a beat
	before setting to work...

7    INT. SICKBAY

	Ogawa ministers to an N.D. PATIENT on a bio-bed, then
	moves toward Beverly's Office. She stops at the door
	and waits for BEVERLY to look up from her desk.

      STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT ONE      12.

8    INT. BEVERLY'S OFFICE

	Beverly sees her and smiles.

					BEVERLY
			If you're wondering about your
			evaluation, it couldn't be better.

					OGAWA
				(smiles)
			Actually, I just wanted to tell
			you that Ensign Reilly's condition
			is showing improvement... but
			thank you.

					BEVERLY
			In fact, I'm recommending you for
			a promotion. How does Lieutenant
			Alyssa Ogawa sound to you?

					OGAWA
			It sounds wonderful.

					BEVERLY
			I'll talk to Commander Riker... I
			expect it'll be official as soon
			as the current crew evaluation is
			over.

	Ogawa smiles and turns to exit...

					BEVERLY
			Alyssa... I've been meaning to ask
			you -- how are things going with
			you and Lieutenant Powell?

	There is a brief hesitation.

					OGAWA
			Fine... I think.

					BEVERLY
			You think?

	Ogawa takes a breath... she's trying to be casual about
	this, but there's an undercurrent of concern.

					OGAWA
			I'm sure it's nothing... but he
			seems... preoccupied lately. Last
			night he had to cancel our date.

					BEVERLY
			I see...

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT ONE     12A.

8    CONTINUED:

					OGAWA
			I know he's been putting together
			a research proposal... he's been
			really busy with it...

					BEVERLY
			I can understand that. Sometimes
			I get so absorbed in my research
			I forget to eat.

	Ogawa still seems concerned.

					OGAWA
			I just wonder...

	She trails off, but Beverly knows she wants to talk.

					BEVERLY
			What?

					OGAWA
			I've never met anyone like Andrew.
			It's as though we've known each
			other forever...

					BEVERLY
			You do seem well-suited.

					OGAWA
			But... I know that in the
			beginning of a romance... it's
			possible to be... a little blind.

					BEVERLY
				(carefully)
			I'm not sure exactly what you
			mean...

					OGAWA
			Well... cancelling a date like
			that... the way he's been so
			distant lately...
				(beat)
			Doctor... do you think those could
			be warning signs? That he's
			losing interest?

					BEVERLY
			Alyssa... I think you may be
			overreacting.

					OGAWA
			Maybe so...

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT ONE     12B.

8    CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
			If I felt as strongly about
			someone as you do about Andrew --
			he'd have to do a lot more than
			cancel one date before I became
			suspicious.

	Ogawa can't help but smile.

					OGAWA
			You're right...

					BEVERLY
			As soon as this research project
			is over... I'm sure things will be
			just like they were.

	Cheered, Ogawa puts a final bright spin on things.

					OGAWA
			Except, of course, that he'll have
			to deal with Lieutenant Ogawa.

	And she EXITS, smiling.

      STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT ONE      13.

8A   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it drops out of warp.

9    INT. TEN FORWARD

	Sito is standing at the bar talking with Worf. A
	smaller than usual number of N.D's are in the room.

					SITO
			I only filled in at Ops for half
			an hour, but I had to degauss the
			main deflector dish, recalibrate
			the navigation grid, and use the
			internal sensors to find a lost
			puppy.

					WORF
			Ops is a very different challenge
			from Tactical.

					SITO
			I can't figure out why I'm even
			being considered for the
			assignment... I'm a security
			officer.

	Worf regards her for a beat.

					WORF
			I recommended you.

	Sito is surprised and gratified to hear this.

					SITO
			I'll try not to let you down, sir.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE        14.

10   ON LAVELLE, TAURIK AND BEN

	who are at the same table we saw them at before,
	watching Sito and Worf. Ben stands with an empty tray --
	there aren't many people in Ten Forward so he has time
	to talk.

					LAVELLE
			What could they be talking about?

	Taurik's had enough of Lavelle's trying to eavesdrop.

					TAURIK
			Have you ever considered learning
			to lip read?

	Ben smiles at Taurik's comment, but Lavelle ignores his
	remark.

					LAVELLE
			Do you think Worf's chewing her
			out?

					BEN
			No, he always looks like that.

	There's a trace of envy in Lavelle's voice:

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			Maybe he's giving her pointers on
			how to land the Ops position.

	The door OPENS and Riker ENTERS; he glances their way
	when he crosses past their table.

					BEN
			Hi, Wil.

					RIKER
				(a greeting)
			Ben...

	When Riker crosses away Lavelle looks at Ben in
	disbelief.

					LAVELLE
			You call him Wil?

					BEN
			Why not?

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT ONE     14A.

10   CONTINUED:

					LAVELLE
			He's second in command of this
			ship, that's why not.

					BEN
			I'm not Starfleet; I'm a civilian.
			And when he's in here, he wants to
			be treated like a civilian.

					LAVELLE
			Riker? I bet he sleeps in his
			uniform.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE        15.

10   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEN
			You only think that because he's
			your C.O. If you got to know him --

					LAVELLE
				(dismissing this)
			Right.

	Ben isn't sure why Lavelle's reacting like this.

					TAURIK
				(to Ben)
			He's convinced that Commander
			Riker doesn't "like" him.

					BEN
			Why? Did you crash the ship into
			something?

					LAVELLE
			No. He just doesn't like me.

					TAURIK
			He doesn't even know you.

					BEN
			That's right. You should go talk
			to him.

					LAVELLE
			About what?

					TAURIK
			Perhaps something you have in
			common?

					BEN
			He likes Jazz... poker... he's
			Canadian --

					LAVELLE
			Yeah? My grandfather was from
			Canada.

					BEN
			There you go.

	Sito approaches the table; in the background, we see
	that Worf is EXITING Ten Forward.

					SITO
			Hi --

	She sees that there's no chair for her.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE        15A.

10   CONTINUED: (3)

					LAVELLE
			Here...

	He stands and frees his chair for her.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			I've got to go talk to somebody.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE        16.

10   CONTINUED: (4)

	We follow Lavelle as he moves off, drink in hand. He
	steels himself, then moves to the bar next to Riker.
	Riker is working on a PADD and doesn't notice him.

					LAVELLE
			Good evening, sir...

	Riker turns toward him.

					RIKER
			Lavelle...

	Lavelle smiles awkwardly, unsure what to say. Riker
	regards him for a beat, wondering if he wants
	something.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			Can I do something for you?

					LAVELLE
			No, sir. I... just came to get
			myself another drink.

	Riker glances down at the drink Lavelle's already
	holding in his hand -- it's nearly full.

					RIKER
			Something wrong with that one?

					LAVELLE
			Actually, I...

	The Bartender approaches.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing, to Riker)
			What are you having?

					RIKER
			Trakian Ale.

					LAVELLE
			Good choice.
				(to bartender)
			I'll have one, too.

	Riker returns to his PADD. After a beat.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE        17.

10   CONTINUED: (5)

					LAVELLE
			My Grandfather was Canadian, you
			know.

					RIKER
			Really...

					LAVELLE
			Aren't you one, too?

					RIKER
			A grandfather?

	Lavelle laughs, maybe a little too much.

					LAVELLE
			Canadian, sir. Canadian.

					RIKER
			No. I grew up in Alaska.

	Lavelle's smile fades as he realizes his plan is
	collapsing.

					LAVELLE
			Oh. Well... they both... get a
			lot of snow.

	Riker isn't sure what to say to this; he returns to his
	PADD. An awkward beat as Lavelle decides to get out
	before he gets himself in any deeper.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			Good talking to you, sir.

	Lavelle moves off, mortified by the whole encounter --
	a beat later the bartender arrives with his ale. He
	looks at Riker, who glances after Lavelle and shakes
	his head.

11   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	hanging in space.

12   INT. BRIDGE

	as Picard ENTERS from the Ready Room. Riker is in the
	command area, Worf is at Tactical, Lavelle at the Conn,
	Data at Ops.

					RIKER
			We're holding position in the
			Argaya System.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT ONE        18.

12   CONTINUED:

	Picard acknowledges, turns to Worf.

					PICARD
			Anything?

					WORF
				(off console)
			No, sir. I detect no vessels in
			the vicinity.

	Picard and Riker exchange a concerned look.

					PICARD
			How close are we to the Cardassian
			border?

					DATA
				(off console)
			Less than five thousand
			kilometers.

	To Lavelle this all sounds very mysterious.

					WORF
				(off console)
			Sir... I am detecting an object...
			five meters in length.
				(beat)
			It appears to be an escape pod.

					RIKER
			They must have been forced to
			abandon ship.

					PICARD
			How far inside Cardassian space is
			it?

					WORF
			Over fifty thousand kilometers.

	Picard and Riker share a grim look.

					PICARD
			How the hell are we going to get
			it out of there... ?

	Off Lavelle's face -- he doesn't know what this
	mysterious escape pod contains, but clearly it's
	important to us...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT TWO        19.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

13   INT. BRIDGE

	Moments later.

					DATA
				(off console)
			Sir, the pod's life-support system
			is failing.

					RIKER
				(to Worf)
			Notify Doctor Crusher --

					PICARD
			Can we get within Transporter
			range without crossing into
			Cardassian territory?

					DATA
				(works)
			We would need to boost the gain on
			the confinement beam by at least
			seven percent.

					PICARD
				(to com)
			Mister La Forge?

14   INT. ENGINEERING

	where Taurik and Geordi are working.

					GEORDI
			I'm on it, sir.

	Geordi works a console.

					GEORDI
				(continuing, to Taurik)
			Try it now...

      STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT TWO      20.

14   CONTINUED:

					TAURIK
				(works)
			The pod is still too far away...

					GEORDI
			I'm going to try augmenting the
			frequency spread...

	Geordi sets to work. Taurik studies his console for a
	moment.

					TAURIK
			Bio-readings indicate that the
			passenger is humanoid...
				(works console)
			Attempting life-form
			identification --

					GEORDI
				(sharp)
			No one asked you to do that,
			Ensign. Let's just get him aboard
			safely.

	Taurik reacts -- Geordi keeps working.

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			There, that should do it...

					TAURIK
				(off console)
			Confinement beam is at one hundred
			nine percent of normal.

					GEORDI
				(hits combadge)
			Transporter room -- you should be
			able to get a lock now.

15   INT. BRIDGE

	where they are monitoring the conversation.

					VOICE
			Aye, sir --

					PICARD
				(to com)
			Doctor, are you ready?

16   INT. SICKBAY (OPTICAL)

	where Ogawa is helping Beverly prepare a bio-bed.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT TWO        21.

16   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
				(hits combadge)
			Stand by.

					BEVERLY
			Alyssa, I'm afraid I'm going to
			have to ask you to leave.

					OGAWA
			All right, Doctor.

	With a last glance around to make sure everything's
	ready, she EXITS.

					BEVERLY
				(to com)
			Transporter room. go ahead.

	A figure begins to MATERIALIZE on the bio-bed. We cut
	out before we can recognize whether it is human or
	alien.

17   INT. CORRIDOR

	as Ogawa EXITS to find Sito posted at the door.

					OGAWA
			What are you doing here?

					SITO
			I'm not supposed to let anyone but
			the senior officers inside
			Sickbay.

					OGAWA
			Do you have any idea what's going
			on?

					SITO
			No. Do you?

	Ogawa shrugs. In the background we see Picard round a
	corner and head their way.

					OGAWA
				(sotto)
			I better go.

	She EXITS down the corridor. Picard approaches and
	nods to Sito as he passes.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT TWO        22.

17   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Ensign...

	She acknowledges and the door OPENS to admit him. But
	he stops before going in, turns back to look at Sito.
	He regards her for a beat without saying anything, then
	turns and EXITS to Sickbay. Sito is left wondering
	what the look might have meant...

18   INT. BRIDGE

	Riker is near an aft station, Data at Ops, Worf at
	tactical and Lavelle at the Conn. A group of N.D's
	ENTER from the Turbolift and stand ready to take their
	posts. Riker glances to see if everyone's present,
	then announces:

					RIKER
			Twelve hundred hours -- alpha
			shift is relieved...

	The other N.D's move from their posts and EXIT to the
	Turbolifts, but Lavelle approaches Riker.

					LAVELLE
			Excuse me, sir.

	Riker turns to him.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			If it's all right with you, I'd
			like to stay on for another shift.
			I could use the training.

					RIKER
			Now's not the best time.

					LAVELLE
			Yes, sir.

	Lavelle moves to the Turbolift... it OPENS and he goes
	inside. As the door closes, we catch a glimpse of his
	frustrated expression...

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT TWO        23.

19   INT. CORRIDOR

	where Sito is posted. She stands silently for a beat
	until the door to Sickbay OPENS and Picard steps out --
	without breaking stride:

					PICARD
			Ensign, you're with me.

	Surprised by his request, it takes her a beat to follow
	in step. They move down the corridor in silence, and
	stop when they reach the Turbolift door. After a
	moment it OPENS and Lavelle and another N.D EXIT.

	Lavelle's surprised to see her with Picard, and he and
	Sito exchange a look as the pass each other.

20   INT. TURBOLIFT

	as the door closes behind them.

					PICARD
			Bridge.

	Picard is clearly preoccupied with whatever their
	mysterious mission is and says nothing else. For Sito,
	the next few moments are among the longest of her life.
	Finally:

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			You're a certified pilot, aren't
			you?

					SITO
			Yes, sir.

	Picard nods vaguely and returns to his inscrutable
	thoughts. Sito can only wonder what the question might
	portend.

21   INT. READY ROOM

	as Picard and Sito ENTER. He moves directly to his
	desk without offering her a seat. He seats himself and
	turns to regard her for a beat.

					PICARD
			How long have you served on the
			Enterprise?

					SITO
			Seven months, sir.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT TWO        24.

21   CONTINUED:

	Despite her nervousness, Picard does nothing to make
	her feel more at ease.

					PICARD
			I see... I understand you've been
			recommended for the Ops position.
			Do you think you're up to it?

					SITO
			I do, sir.

	Sito is wondering if she's about to be promoted.

					PICARD
			I'm not so sure. Your record
			concerns me.

					SITO
			Sir?

					PICARD
			The incident you were involved in
			at the Academy.

	Sito blanches; this is her greatest fear come to life --
	that people will never forget the mistake she made.

					SITO
			With all due respect... that was
			three years ago. My record since
			then --

					PICARD
				(interrupting)
			I'm not certain it matters how
			long it's been. What I need to
			know is whether you would ever do
			something like that again.

					SITO
			I can assure you, sir, I would
			never, never jeopardize lives by
			participating in --

					PICARD
				(cutting her off)
			A dare-devil stunt? I should hope
			not. What concerns me more is
			that you participated in a coverup
			that impeded an official
			investigation into the death of a
			cadet.

      STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT TWO      25.

21   CONTINUED: (2)

	From Sito's point of view she's being dressed-down; but
	Picard's tone, the fact that he so uncharacteristically
	interrupted her, is indicative that there is more going
	on here. He's testing her mettle, much like he did
	Hugh's in "I, Borg." Why he's doing it remains a
	mystery.

	She stammers as she tries to explain.

					SITO
			Sir, I know I should have told the
			truth right from the start --

					PICARD
			But you didn't. You went along
			with the others and pretended that
			what happened was nothing more
			than an accident. What do you
			suppose that tells me about your
			character?

	She's completely flustered now.

					SITO
			Sir, if you had any idea what it
			was like after that incident -- I
			didn't have any friends, anyone to
			talk to. I had to take my flighttest
			with the instructor because
			no one else would be my partner.
			In a lot of ways it would have
			been easier to just walk away.
			But I didn't. I stuck with it.
			Doesn't that say something about
			my character, too... ?

	Picard's tone is dismissively sarcastic.

					PICARD
			I'm very sorry you didn't enjoy
			your time at the Academy, Ensign.
			But as far as I'm concerned, you
			should have been expelled for what
			you did. Quite frankly, I don't
			know how you made it onto my ship.

        STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT TWO        26.

21   CONTINUED: (3)

	He leans back, waits for her to defend herself. But
	she's so rattled by what he's said, she can't. Picard
	regards her for a long moment... then, almost as if
	he's disappointed by her inability to reply:

					PICARD
			You're dismissed...

	She turns and EXITS. Off Picard's expression as he
	watches her go...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT THREE     27.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

22   INT. SHUTTLEBAY (OPTICAL)

	Taurik is taking aim with a PHASER RIFLE. He FIRES and
	we reveal that he is shooting at a SHUTTLECRAFT sitting
	in the bay. Geordi stands nearby with a TRICORDER and
	watches as the BEAM hits the shuttle's aft section.

					GEORDI
			Two more seconds...
				(beat)
			That's enough.

	A SCORCH MARK now mars the shuttle's stern. Geordi
	scans it with the tricorder. Other scorch marks are
	visible on the hull.

					TAURIK
			Sir, I'm a little puzzled. Why
			are we intentionally damaging this
			shuttlecraft?

	A brief hesitation.

					GEORDI
			We're evaluating hull resiliency.
			Starfleet requires periodic
			testing.

					TAURIK
			I see.
				(beat)
			I don't believe I'm familiar with
			that requirement.

					GEORDI
				(somewhat pointedly)
			Probably because you're not a
			senior officer.

	Taurik acknowledges this. But --

					TAURIK
			If you wish, I can reconfigure the
			phaser to fire a low-intensity
			burst that would not harm the
			shuttle's hull. The test
			procedure would not be affected.

	Oddly, Geordi dismisses what seems a good idea.

    STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT THREE    27A.

22   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			It's fine the way it is. Just
			give me a four second burst right
			about here.

	He indicates a point on the nacelle. Taurik moves to
	take up position.

					TAURIK
			Should I fire from this position?

					GEORDI
			Actually...
				(he gestures)
			Make it over there.

	Geordi indicates that Taurik take up position a few
	yards in another direction.

					TAURIK
			That would be consistent...

	Geordi turns and looks at Taurik.

       STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT THREE       28.

22   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Consistent with what?

	Taurik considers a beat before replying.

					TAURIK
			With making it appear that this
			shuttle fled an attack.

	Geordi can't help but frown when he realizes Taurik
	knows exactly what they're really up to.

					GEORDI
			What makes you think that's what
			we're doing?

					TAURIK
			The pattern of fire you have asked
			for is similar to what might
			result if the shuttle were fleeing
			an attacker while engaging in
			evasive maneuvers.

	Geordi regards him with a poker-face.

					GEORDI
			That's quite a coincidence...

	Taurik understands that Geordi is asking him to stop
	asking questions and go along with the official story.

					TAURIK
			Yes, sir. It is indeed. Shall we
			proceed with the testing?

	Geordi's face shows that he's glad that Taurik
	understands.

					GEORDI
			Yes, Ensign. Thank you.

	As Taurik takes up position for the next phaser shot...

23   INT. SICKBAY

	as Ogawa ENTERS. Beverly approaches her with a certain
	amount of urgency.

					BEVERLY
			Alyssa... thanks for coming so
			quickly.

	They start toward the main room.

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT THREE     29.

23   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
				(continuing)
			We need to prepare for surgery.
			We have a comatose patient with a
			subdeural hematoma.

					OGAWA
			Yes, sir.

	Beverly stops, turns to her.

					BEVERLY
			I want to make it clear that you
			are not to discuss what you see
			here with anyone.

					OGAWA
			I understand.

	When they cross into the main room Ogawa reacts to what
	she sees on the center bio-bed -- an unconscious
	Cardassian male of about forty.

					BEVERLY
			We'll need to synthesize at least
			a liter of Cardassian blood...

	It takes Ogawa a beat to recover, then she and Beverly
	set to work...

24   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

25   INT. LAVELLE/TAURIK'S QUARTERS

	where Sito, Ogawa, Lavelle, Taurik and Ben are playing
	five-card stud at a table in the middle of the room.

	This is a re-dress of our windowless quarters, and we
	should get the feeling that they're smaller than Worf's
	or Geordi's. The two men have pretty much divided the
	room in two, with their beds against opposite walls.

	Taurik's half is neat and orderly, with Vulcan
	artifacts displayed. Lavelle's half is a bit of a mess --
	a soccer ball, an Anbo-jitsu stick, and other trappings
	of a single man are carelessly strewn about.

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT THREE     30.

25   CONTINUED:

	Ben expertly shuffles the deck and deals one card down,
	then one up -- starting with Lavelle, then to Ogawa,
	Taurik and finally Sito. While he deals they each
	assess their hand and the following conversation plays:

					BEN
			What I can't figure out is why
			we're just sitting here so close
			to the Cardassian border.

					LAVELLE
			It must have something to do with
			that escape pod we picked up.
				(to Sito)
			Don't you think?

	Sito shrugs that she doesn't know.

					SITO
			Maybe...

	She's still reeling from her encounter with Picard; her
	friends have noticed that her mind is elsewhere, but
	they don't know why.

					LAVELLE
			I wonder who was in it... ?

					BEN
			You know what I heard... ?

	The others turn to Ben. After a dramatic pause:

					BEN
				(continuing)
			It was Ambassador Spock.

	None of the others believe this for a second.

					TAURIK
			That is unlikely.

					BEN
			That's what I was told...

					TAURIK
			By whom?

					BEN
			I can't say.

	Lavelle shrugs Ben off and continues trying to
	speculate.

    STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT THREE    30A.

25   CONTINUED: (2)

					LAVELLE
			They beamed whoever was in it
			right to Sickbay.
				(to Ogawa)
			Did you see anything when you went
			down there?

	For possibly the first time, Ogawa is having to keep
	something from her friends.

					OGAWA
			No... Doctor Crusher just wanted
			me to help her with the lab
			schedule.

					TAURIK
				(to Ogawa)
			I thought Lieutenant Powell was
			going to join us tonight?

					OGAWA
			He had to do a double shift.

					LAVELLE
			That's too bad...
				(smiles)
			He's the worst poker player I've
			ever met...

	Ogawa smiles and shrugs.

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT THREE     31.

25   CONTINUED: (2)

	Ben turns to Lavelle, who is showing the highest card.

					BEN
			It's your bet, Sam.

                                             CUT TO:

26   INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS

	where Riker, Beverly, Troi, Worf and Geordi are also
	playing poker.

					WORF
				(bets)
			Twenty.

	The others match his bet, and Geordi deals another card
	face up to each player (they too show one down and one
	up).

					BEVERLY
			-- the thing is, I saw Powell in
			Ten Forward with another woman...
			the way they were talking made me
			wonder...

					TROI
			He should tell Alyssa if he's
			seeing someone else. Even if it
			hurts her, it'll be better in the
			long run.

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT THREE     32.

26   CONTINUED:

	Riker turns to Worf.

					RIKER
			I've been meaning to tell you
			something, Worf... I don't think
			Ensign Sito is ready for the Ops
			position.

	Worf reacts --

					WORF
			I must say that I disagree, sir.

	Geordi nudges Troi because she shows the highest hand.

					RIKER
			I'm listening...

	Troi tosses in a chip --

                                             CUT TO:

27   INT. LAVELLE/TAURIK'S QUARTERS

	as a chip lands in the pile at the center of the table.

					BEN
			The bet is fifty --

	Everyone matches the bet --

					TAURIK
				(to Sito)
			It would be illogical for the
			Captain to deny you a promotion
			because of something you did as a
			cadet.

	These are difficult things for Sito to talk about.

					SITO
			He said it shows I don't have
			character.

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT THREE     33.

27   CONTINUED:

					OGAWA
			What did you say?

					SITO
			What could I say?
				(quiet)
			Maybe he's right...

	Lavelle reacts strongly to this.

					LAVELLE
			You're a damn fine officer and you
			deserve that post as much as
			anyone.

	This is the kind of thing she needs to hear and it
	helps her shake her gloom a little.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			One thing's for sure -- I won't be
			getting it. Not if it's up to
			Riker.

                                             CUT TO:

28   INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS

					WORF
				(to Riker)
			It is your decision, sir -- but if
			you give her a chance to prove
			herself, I feel certain that
			Ensign Sito will not disappoint
			you.

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT THREE     34.

28   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			All right, Worf. I'll keep her
			under consideration.
				(beat)
			Besides, I have my doubts about
			Lavelle.

					TROI
				(surprised)
			Really? Why?

					RIKER
			He's too... eager to please. He
			keeps trying to ingratiate himself
			to me.

					TROI
			Why assume he's doing it just to
			get the job?

	Riker smiles; he's sure he's right about Lavelle.

					RIKER
				(to Geordi)
			I'll see your fifty and raise you
			a hundred.

					TROI
			I don't know... It seems to me
			that you and Lavelle have a lot in
			common.

					RIKER
			What? We're not at all alike.

					GEORDI
				(to Riker)
			You're bluffing.

                                             CUT TO:

       STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT THREE       35.

29   INT. LAVELLE/TAURIK'S QUARTERS

					LAVELLE
				(to Ben)
			Think so?

	Ben regards him for a beat, then bets.

					BEN
			Yes, and I'm not gonna let you get
			away with it.

					OGAWA
				(to Lavelle)
			You know, Sam, maybe you shouldn't
			try so hard with Riker. It
			doesn't matter whether he likes
			you... as long as he respects you.

					SITO
			And he must... otherwise he
			wouldn't be considering you for
			the Ops position.

	Sam considers their words for a moment.

					LAVELLE
			You're probably right... maybe I'm
			just telling myself he hates me so
			if I don't get promoted I'll have
			an excuse.

					BEN
				(to Taurik)
			Well? You in or not?

	Taurik is studying his cards intently.

					TAURIK
			At this juncture, the odds of my
			winning this hand are less than
			thirty-nine to one. I fold.

	He sets his cards down.

                                             CUT TO:

       STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT THREE       36.

30   INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS

					RIKER
				(to Geordi)
			Looks like it's just you and me,
			buddy. You in for another fifty?

					GEORDI
			Give me a minute. I'm thinking.

	Geordi studies Riker's face to see if he's bluffing.

					TROI
				(to Riker)
			Didn't you tell me you took up
			poker so you could get into the
			officer's game on the Potemkin?

					RIKER
			I happen to like poker.

					TROI
			But your senior officers might
			have thought you were trying to
			ingratiate yourself -- I guess
			they realized you were just young
			and inexperienced and decided not
			to hold it against you.

	Riker is struck by her words; he regards Troi for a
	moment, then nods that he sees her point.

					RIKER
			Maybe I am being too hard on
			Lavelle...

					WORF
				(to Geordi)
			I do not believe he is bluffing.

					GEORDI
			I do.
				(bets)
			What've you got?

	Geordi shows a respectable hand. Riker plays the
	moment for all it's worth, then shows his cards -- he
	wasn't bluffing.

					GEORDI
			I can't believe this.

       STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT THREE       37.

30   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(as he takes in the
				 chips)
			I'm your worst nightmare...

                                             CUT TO:

31   INT. LAVELLE/TAURIK'S QUARTERS

					BEN
			I knew it!

	Ben starts raking in the chips.

					LAVELLE
			How could you tell I was bluffing?

					BEN
			You don't really expect me to
			answer that, do you... ?

					SITO
			Well... it's getting pretty late.
			Maybe we should all get some
			sleep.

	Ogawa indicates her agreement and they start to get up.

					BEN
			One more hand --

                                             CUT TO:

32   INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS

	where Geordi is now standing.

					RIKER
			Come on, Geordi. You're not going
			to quit just because I'm
			unbeatable?

					GEORDI
			There's something I need to do
			down in Engineering.

	He moves toward the door.

					GEORDI
				(to Riker)
			I'll get you next time.

					RIKER
				(smiles)
			I'll be waiting...

       STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT THREE       38.

32   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Good night, everybody.

                                             CUT TO:

33   INT. LAVELLE/TAURIK'S QUARTERS

					LAVELLE
			Good night.

	Sito and Ogawa EXIT.

					TAURIK
				(to Ben)
			What I find curious is that when
			Commander La Forge saw that the
			technique I was proposing was more
			efficient, he seemed... annoyed.

					BEN
			Of course he was.

					LAVELLE
			He didn't like the fact that you
			knew something he didn't.

	Taurik becomes concerned.

     STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT THREE     39.

33   CONTINUED:

					TAURIK
			Do you think I have irreparably
			damaged my relationship with him?

					LAVELLE
			It depends on what kind of guy he
			is.

					BEN
			Ante up, gentlemen.

	Taurik doesn't know what to make of all this. Suddenly
	the door CHIMES.

					LAVELLE
			Come in.

	The door OPENS to reveal Geordi -- much to everyone's
	surprise.

					LAVELLE
			Commander --

	Taurik and Lavelle start to stand, but Geordi gestures
	it's okay.

					GEORDI
			Don't get up. I just dropped by
			to see Taurik.

	Taurik stands and approaches him.

					TAURIK
			What can I do for you, sir?

					GEORDI
			I'm headed for Engineering to run
			those tests on the nacelles.
			Since you've already put in some
			work on the technique... I thought
			you might like to give me a hand.

	Taurik looks as pleased as a Vulcan can.

					TAURIK
			I would be pleased to, sir.

       STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT THREE       40.

33   CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
			Great. Let's go.

	Geordi waves goodnight to the others, then he and
	Taurik turn and EXIT.

	Ben and Lavelle look at each other a little sheepishly
	as they realize they misjudged Taurik's situation with
	Geordi.

					BEN
			How about some blackjack?

					LAVELLE
			I've got to get some sleep so I
			can be sharp tomorrow.

	Lavelle starts to clean up.

					BEN
			Why? So you can get promoted,
			have more responsibility, and have
			to get to sleep even earlier?

					LAVELLE
			Good night...

	Ben shakes his head and EXITS.

34
thru	OMITTED
35

36   INT. CORRIDOR

	as Ben ENTERS from Lavelle's quarters and moves off.

37   OMITTED

38   INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS

	as the door CHIMES.

					RIKER
			Come in.

	Ben ENTERS.

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT THREE           41.

38   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Ben --

					BEN
			I just cleaned out some junior
			officers and I thought I'd do the
			same here.

					RIKER
			You're welcome to give it a try.

					TROI
			Pull up a chair.

					BEN
			Thanks --

	Off this moment we...

                                             FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/19/93 - ACT FOUR         42.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

39   INT. SHIP'S GYMNASIUM

	Sito and a few N.D's (possibly Lavelle or Taurik) are
	filing out the door after a martial arts class led by
	Worf -- all are in gis.

					WORF
			Ensign Sito --

	She stops, turns.

					WORF
				(continuing)
			I also teach an advanced class --
			I believe you may be ready to
			participate.

	Sito allows herself only a brief smile before she looks
	down, embarrassed by his compliment.

					WORF
				(continuing)
			Before you can join the group,
			however, you must pass the...
			gik'tal.

	Sito reacts --

					SITO
			Gik'tal?

					WORF
			It is a very ancient Klingon
			ritual. It tests your knowledge
			of the forms of the mok'bara.

					SITO
			I should practice first...

					WORF
			No. No practice. That is part of
			the ritual -- the test must be...
			unannounced.

	Sito is a little nervous about the suddenness of it,
	but she manages a nod.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/19/93 - ACT FOUR        42A.

39   CONTINUED:

					WORF
				(continuing)
			Come.

	They move to the center of the room. To her surprise,
	Worf takes a SCARF and wraps it around her head,
	effectively covering her eyes.

					WORF
				(continuing)
			Can you see?

					SITO
			No...

	Sito is a little taken aback by this, but doesn't
	protest.

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FOUR            44.

39   CONTINUED: (2)

					SITO
			Ow!

					WORF
			You did not anticipate.

	In a flash of temper she leaps to her feet and rips the
	scarf off her head.

					SITO
			How am I supposed to defend myself
			when I can't see a thing?

					WORF
			Stop making excuses! Replace the
			blindfold.

					SITO
			No, this isn't a fair test.

	Worf holds her gaze for a moment, then a smile traces
	itself on his features.

					WORF
			Very good, Ensign. You have
			passed the challenge.

	It takes her a moment to realize what he's saying.

					SITO
			What? By taking off the
			blindfold?

					WORF
			It takes courage to say the test
			is not fair.

	Sito is gratified to have succeeded, but puzzled by
	something.

					SITO
			There's one thing I don't
			understand. Doesn't gik'tal mean
			"to the death"?

					WORF
			You... speak Klingon?

	Worf's alarmed reaction makes her wonder...

					SITO
			Sir... is there really such a
			thing as the gik'tal challenge?

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FOUR            45.

39   CONTINUED: (3)

	Worf doesn't like having to admit it.

					WORF
			No... there is not.

	She looks at him, trying to understand why he did it.

					WORF
				(continuing)
			But perhaps the next time you are
			judged unfairly, you will not have
			to suffer so many bruises before
			you protest.

	Sito smiles, grateful for what he's trying to do for
	her... Off this moment between them...

40   INT. READY ROOM

	where Sito, now in uniform, is standing before Picard.

					SITO
			-- all I've ever wanted is to make
			a career for myself in Starfleet.
			I can't change what happened at
			the Academy. No one can. All I
			can do is work hard and try to
			earn the respect of the people I
			serve with.

	She takes a breath, steadies herself.

					SITO
				(continuing)
			If you're not going to give me
			that chance, then I respectfully
			request that you transfer me to
			another ship.

					PICARD
			If you're looking for a more
			lenient commander, I don't think
			you'll find one.

					SITO
			Permission to speak freely, sir?

					PICARD
			Please do.

					SITO
			If you didn't want me on your ship
			you should have said so when I was
			assigned to it.
					(MORE)

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FOUR         46.

40   CONTINUED:

					SITO (Cont'd)
			It's not your place to punish me
			for what I did at the Academy.

	Picard studies her carefully as she addresses him.

					SITO
				(continuing)
			I've worked hard here. My record
			is exemplary. If you're going to
			judge me, judge me for what I am
			now.

	Picard stands, moves around his desk.

					PICARD
			All right, Ensign. I will...

	Sito prepares herself for the worst.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			It took a lot of courage to come
			here and face me after what I said
			to you the other day.

	He sees the look of confusion on her face.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			You see... I didn't call you in
			here then to assess your
			qualifications for the Ops
			position.

					SITO
			I... don't understand.

					PICARD
			I was harsh with you because I was
			assessing you for a very important
			mission. A mission that could
			involve a situation far more...
			unnerving than being dressed down
			by your commanding officer.

					SITO
			May I ask what this mission --

	He holds up a hand to stop her.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT FOUR         47.

40   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			Join the senior staff in the
			Observation Lounge at oh-nine
			hundred hours. We'll discuss it
			then.

					SITO
			Yes, sir.

	She turns to go.

					PICARD
			And Ensign... I do know how you
			ended up on the Enterprise. I
			asked for you.

	This clearly surprises her.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			I wanted to make sure you got a
			fair chance to redeem yourself.

	She acknowledges, grateful -- then EXITS. Off Picard's
	face...

41   INT. SICKBAY

	where Beverly is working. Ogawa approaches her.

					OGAWA
			You wanted to see me, Doctor?

					BEVERLY
			Yes...

	Beverly smiles at Ogawa, feeling uncomfortable about
	this but sure she must proceed.

					BEVERLY
				(continuing)
			Alyssa, I think you know how much
			I've come to depend on you. I've
			recommended your promotion because
			your performance here has been
			exemplary.

					OGAWA
			Thank you, Doctor... I appreciate
			that.

	She looks at Beverly, wondering what's going on.
	Clearly this is about more than her performance.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT FOUR        47A.

41   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			But more than that, I've come to
			think of you as a friend. Someone
			I care about...

					OGAWA
			That's nice of you to say. I feel
			the same way.

					BEVERLY
			So... I was wondering about you
			and Andrew Powell...

	Ogawa's face lights up.

					OGAWA
			Someone told you!

	Now it's Beverly's turn to look puzzled.

					BEVERLY
			Told me... ?

					OGAWA
			We were going to keep it a secret
			until the promotions are
			announced.

					BEVERLY
			Secret... ?

					OGAWA
			He asked me to marry him.

	Beverly is completely taken aback.

					BEVERLY
			Alyssa -- that's wonderful!

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/23/93 - ACT FOUR         48.

41   CONTINUED: (3)

					BEVERLY
			I'm so relieved...

	Ogawa gives her a slight look --

					BEVERLY
				(continuing)
			I mean -- happy.

	They hug... OFF this moment...

42   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

43   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	as Sito ENTERS. Riker and Worf look up and gesture
	that she should take a seat. Someone else is seated in
	the chair facing away from her, but she can't see them.

					RIKER
			Have a seat, Ensign.

	Worf gives her a reassuring look. She moves inside,
	takes a chair. She glances over and sees that the
	unseen person in the chair is a Cardassian -- the same
	one Ogawa saw in Sickbay. As a Bajoran she can't help
	but react -- though she quickly recovers.

	The DOOR OPENS -- Picard ENTERS and takes a seat.
	Picard gestures to the Cardassian.

					PICARD
			This is Joret Dal... he was in the
			escape pod we retrieved.

	Joret nods a greeting to Sito.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Joret is a member of the
			Cardassian military... he is also
			a Federation operative.

	Picard lets this sink in for a beat.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FOUR         49.

43   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			He risked his life to come here
			and give us invaluable information
			about Cardassia's strategic
			intentions -- information that
			could very well enhance the
			security of Bajor, as well as
			other planets in this sector. It
			is imperative that we get him
			safely back to Cardassian space.

					JORET
			It will not be easy. The border
			is heavily guarded.

					RIKER
			Since his ship was destroyed he's
			going to have to take one of our
			shuttlecraft.

					JORET
			If a patrol stops me, I will claim
			to have stolen it.

					WORF
			We have distressed the shuttle so
			that it appears to have been fired
			on.

					RIKER
			Joret's going to have to try and
			talk his way past the patrol.

					JORET
			If I were alone, the chances of my
			succeeding would be slim. But if
			I had a prisoner with me... a
			Bajoran terrorist...

	Worf glances at Sito as she realizes what the plan
	entails -- she is listening without betraying any
	emotion.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FOUR        49A.

43   CONTINUED: (2)

					JORET
			I would appear to be a bounty
			hunter. Border crossings of that
			nature are not uncommon... for a
			price, the patrol can be convinced
			to look the other way.

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FOUR            50.

43   CONTINUED: (3)

	Picard turns to Sito.

					PICARD
			Once the shuttle is safely past
			the patrol, Joret will put you in
			an escape pod and send you back
			across the border.

					RIKER
			Since the pod is so small, it
			shouldn't be detectable.

					PICARD
			We'll be waiting here to pick you
			up.

					SITO
			I understand, sir.

					PICARD
			This is obviously a very dangerous
			mission. I'm not ordering you to
			take part in it.

	She looks up at him.

					SITO
			Then I'll volunteer, sir.

					WORF
			Be certain you understand the risk
			you are taking. If you are
			captured --

					SITO
			I'm Bajoran. No one knows better
			than I do what the Cardassians do
			to their prisoners.

	She turns to Picard.

					SITO
				(continuing)
			I've made my decision.

	Picard studies her for a beat.

					PICARD
			Very well, Ensign. Report to
			Sickbay.
				(off her reaction)
			Doctor Crusher will explain.

	She stands.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FOUR         51.

43   CONTINUED: (4)

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			I'd also ask you not to discuss
			this mission with anyone...

					SITO
			Yes, sir.

	She EXITS. There is a silent moment as everyone
	contemplates the dangers of what she's being asked to
	do. Joret turns to Picard, gives voice to what they're
	all thinking.

					JORET
				(continuing, quiet)
			I didn't realize she would be
			so... young...

	Off this moment...

44   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

45   INT. SHUTTLEBAY

	where Geordi is doing a last minute check on the
	shuttle. Joret is at the controls; Worf stands near
	the aft section. Sito ENTERS from the corridor,
	dressed in BAJORAN CIVILIAN CLOTHES. When she
	approaches Worf we see that her face is badly BRUISED.

					SITO
			The Captain asked Doctor Crusher
			to make it look like Joret had
			mistreated me...

	Geordi steps out of the back of the shuttle.

					GEORDI
			We're all set...

	Worf acknowledges and Geordi moves off.

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FOUR            52.

45   CONTINUED:

					SITO
			Sir... I want you to know that I
			really appreciate the fact that
			you've always had confidence in
			me.

	Worf acknowledges -- he's proud of her, but at the same
	time concerned for her well-being.

					WORF
			Good luck...

					SITO
			I'll see you soon...

	She steps up into the shuttle and the door begins to
	CLOSE. The ALARM SOUNDS that indicates the HANGAR DOOR
	is OPENING. Worf moves away from the shuttle.

46   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as the shuttle pulls out of the shuttlebay.

47   INT. SHUTTLEBAY (OPTICAL)

	Worf stands looking out the shuttlebay door at the
	stars... Off this moment we...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT FIVE         53.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

0A   EXT. SPACE - SHUTTLECRAFT (OPTICAL)

	at impulse.

48   INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Joret and Sito are in the cockpit, both somewhat
	apprehensive.

					JORET
			We are approaching the border...
			it won't be long before we're
			detected by the patrol ships.

					SITO
			When they stop us... do you want
			me to say anything?

					JORET
			No. It should seem that I've
			broken your will. If you're asked
			any questions, look at me... as
			though you're afraid to answer.

	She nods grimly. After a moment, she turns to him.

					SITO
			Can I ask you something... ? Why
			are you doing this -- risking your
			life to help Starfleet?

					JORET
			I don't consider myself a traitor,
			if that's what you're asking.

	It is clear from his tone that Joret has thought about
	this a great deal.

					JORET
				(continuing)
			I've served in the military all my
			life... once it was an institution
			dedicated to the security of
			Cardassia, now it's little more
			than... a platform for ambitious
			Guls hoping to make their
			reputations in battle.

	Sito hears the conviction in his voice.


          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/29/93 - ACT FIVE        53A.

48   CONTINUED:

					JORET
				(continuing)
			If the information I provide helps
			Starfleet deter even one pointless
			border skirmish, I'll have served
			my purpose. I'm sick of war. My
			people need peace.

	Sito is struck by what he's told her... after a
	moment...

					SITO
			I never thought I'd hear a
			Cardassian say something like
			that...

	He turns and regards her for a beat.

					JORET
			And I never thought a Bajoran
			would risk her life to help a
			Cardassian get home...

	This moment between them is interrupted by a warning
	BEEP from the cockpit console.

					SITO
				(off console)
			A patrol ship is closing in on our
			position...

         STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FIVE 54-55.           

48   CONTINUED: (2)

					JORET
			We don't have much time...

	He stands and picks up a SHACKLE (as seen in "Chain of
	Command"), and she holds up her wrists for him to
	shackle her. Off this moment...

49
thru	OMITTED
51

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FIVE            56.

52   INT. TEN FORWARD

	where Taurik, Lavelle and Ogawa are in midconversation.
	Ben stands nearby.

					LAVELLE
			She must have left on that
			shuttle, there's no other
			explanation.

					BEN
			Do you have any idea where it
			went?

					LAVELLE
			Toward Cardassian space -- that's
			what I'm worried about.

	In the face of Lavelle's concern, Ogawa and Taurik are
	finding it very difficult to keep silent about what
	they know -- but they both feel they have to.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			There's another thing, I noticed
			the shuttle was damaged --

					OGAWA
			Sam, can we talk about something
			else?

					LAVELLE
			Don't you care what's happened to
			her?

					OGAWA
			Of course --

					TAURIK
			But we have to accept the fact
			that we're not always told about
			everything that happens aboard
			ship.

					LAVELLE
			We can at least tell each other
			what we know.

	Lavelle sees a slight reaction in both Ogawa and
	Taurik.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			Do you two know something?

					OGAWA
			Sam, please...

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FIVE           56A.

52   CONTINUED:

					LAVELLE
			I can't believe this. We're
			friends.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FIVE         57.

52   CONTINUED: (2)

					TAURIK
			We're also Starfleet Officers.

					OGAWA
			I'm not allowed to talk about
			it...

	Lavelle stops short when he realizes it's a security
	matter. He looks from Ogawa to Taurik -- then
	acknowledges their situation.

					LAVELLE
			Okay... I understand.

	Still, he's immensely frustrated... An awkward silence
	settles over the group...

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			I better get going... I'm on duty
			in half an hour...

	He stands and EXITS, leaving the others sitting
	quitely...

53   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

54   INT. BRIDGE

	Riker is in the Command Area, Worf at Tactical, Data at
	Ops, Lavelle at the Conn. The mood is grim.

	Riker crosses down to a point between Ops and Conn.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FIVE         58.

54   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Report.

					LAVELLE
			We've completed a long-range scan
			of the area, sir. The escape pod
			doesn't seem to be out there.

	Riker lets out a frustrated breath.

					DATA
			It is possible that at this
			distance we are simply unable to
			distinguish the pod from the
			inorganic matter normally present
			in space.

					RIKER
			Try narrowing the scan field --
			see if you can pick up any biosigns.

	Data sets to work and Riker starts to turn away, but
	Lavelle stops him with a question.

					LAVELLE
			Sir... it would help if I knew
			what kind of life-signs to look
			for.

	Riker considers for a moment.

					RIKER
			You're scanning for Bajoran lifesigns,
			Ensign.

	Lavelle reacts -- this is the first confirmation he's
	had that he's looking for his friend.

					LAVELLE
			Yes, sir.

	Riker realizes what he's probably going through, and he
	puts a hand to Lavelle's shoulder before crossing back
	to the Command Area.

	Picard ENTERS from the Ready Room and approaches Riker
	for a report.

					RIKER
			Nothing yet, sir. The pod's
			thirty-two hours overdue.

	Worf looks up from his console.

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FIVE            59.

54   CONTINUED: (2)

					WORF
			Sir, I recommend we launch a probe
			to increase the range of our
			sensor sweeps.

	Picard considers for a beat. Riker doesn't like to
	have to be the one to say it:

					RIKER
				(quiet)
			Sending a probe into Cardassian
			space would be a treaty violation.

	Picard acknowledges, but he's still considering it.

					PICARD
			Prepare a probe and launch when
			ready.

					WORF
			Aye, sir.

	Worf sets to work, grasping this last thread of hope.
	After a beat we hear the SOUND of a probe being
	launched.

55   ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	Stock shot of a probe being fired away.

56   RESUME SCENE

	as they watch the probe disappear.

					WORF
			It will be several minutes before
			we begin to receive the probe's
			telemetry.

	Picard settles into his seat to wait.

                                             CUT TO:

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/19/93 - ACT FIVE         60.

56A  INT. BRIDGE

	Picard is pacing anxiously.

					DATA
				(off console)
			Sir... I am detecting signs of
			debris two hundred thousand
			kilometers inside Cardassian
			space...

	Lavelle turns to Data, his face full of dread.

					DATA
				(continuing, off
				 console)
			Its mass and composition indicate
			that it could be the remains of a
			Federation escape pod...

	Reactions. Lavelle looks down at his console... Worf
	focuses on the Viewscreen... off this moment...

56B  EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

					PICARD'S (V.O.)
			Captain's Log, supplemental. We
			have intercepted a Cardassian
			report stating that a Bajoran
			prisoner escaped her captor... and
			was killed in an evacuation pod as
			she tried to leave Cardassian
			space...

57   INT. READY ROOM

					PICARD
			To all personnel with security
			clearance J-one and higher... this
			is the Captain. It is my sad duty
			to inform you --

58   INT. ENGINEERING

	where Taurik is working as Picard's voice comes over
	the com.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			-- that a member of the crew...
			Ensign Sito Jaxa...

	He reacts to hearing his friend's name...

            STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" 11/17/93 - ACT FIVE           60A.

59   INT. SICKBAY

	where Ogawa and Beverly are listening.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Has been lost in the line of
			duty...

	Ogawa covers her face with her hand; Beverly puts a
	comforting hand to her shoulder.

60   INT. BRIDGE

	where Lavelle and the others are listening.

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/19/93 - ACT FIVE         61.

60   CONTINUED:

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			She was the finest example of a
			Starfleet officer... a young woman
			of remarkable courage... and
			strength of character.

60A  INT. READY ROOM

					PICARD
			Her absense will be deeply felt by
			all who knew her...

	Picard's face shows the toll of having to make this
	announcement.

61   OMITTED

62   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it moves at impulse.

63   INT. TEN FORWARD

	Worf sits alone at a table near the windows. Ben
	approaches him with a drink. Sensing that he's lost in
	thought, he sets it down as unobtrusively as possible
	and moves off...

	We FOLLOW him as he approaches Ogawa and Taurik, who
	are sitting in silence at their usual table (there are
	two empty chairs). Their mood is somber. Ben puts a
	comforting hand to Ogawa's shoulder.

					BEN
			You okay... ?

	She manages a small nod... They see Lavelle ENTER and
	approach their table.

					LAVELLE
			Hi...

	Lavelle sits; he seems troubled.

					LAVELLE
				(continuing)
			I just got promoted...

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FIVE         62.

63   CONTINUED:

	Lavelle shows them the COLLAR PIP he's been given to
	designate his new rank. It is clear that he has
	conflicting feelings about this. Ogawa tries to put
	the best face on it:

					OGAWA
			Congratulations...

					LAVELLE
				(without enthusiasm)
			Thanks...

	They all know what he must be going through.

					LAVELLE
			I just don't feel right about
			it... for all I know, she was
			going to get the promotion instead
			of me.

					BEN
			You shouldn't feel that way, Sam.

					OGAWA
			She would have been happy for you.

					TAURIK
			The best way to remember her...
			would be to excel in your new
			position.

	Ogawa takes the pip from Lavelle's hand; as she pins it
	to his collar.

					OGAWA
			We're proud of you, Sam.

	Lavelle looks at his friend's faces, grateful for their
	support.

	Ben moves off, and we FOLLOW him as he crosses to
	Worf's table.

					BEN
			Excuse me, sir... but I need to
			move this table.

					WORF
			What?

          STAR TREK: "Lower Decks" REV. 11/18/93 - ACT FIVE         63.

63   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEN
			There's an empty seat over there.

	Ben indicates the table where Sito's friends are
	sitting. Worf realizes what he's up to.

					WORF
			I appreciate what you are trying
			to do, but it is not...
			appropriate. You were her
			friends. I was only her
			commanding officer...

					BEN
			Sir... I happen to know that she
			considered you a friend.

	Worf looks up at him. He considers, then stands. He
	and Ben cross over to the table. The others look up at
	him, their faces welcoming... and then Worf takes his
	seat among Sito's friends... Off this moment...

64   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it moves away...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END