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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"I, Borg"
#40275-223
Teleplay by
Jeri Taylor
Directed by
Robert Lederman
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 1992 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
MARCH 3, 1992
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"I, Borg"
CAST
PICARD THE BORG SURVIVOR
RIKER
DATA
BEVERLY
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
GUINAN
SECURITY GUARD'S COM VOICE
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
SECURITY GUARDS TWO BORG
NURSES
SUPERNUMERARIES
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"I, Borg"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM CRASH SITE/MOON SURFACE
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
ENGINEERING
TEN FORWARD
TRANSPORTER ROOM
SCIENCE LAB
DETENTION CELL
GYMNASIUM
PICARD'S QUARTERS
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"I, Borg"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Dropping out of warp speed as it enters a star system.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45854.2.
The Enterprise is charting six
star systems that make up the
Argolis cluster, an area being
considered for colonization.
2 INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
PICARD, RIKER, and TROI are in the command area, DATA
at ops, WORF at tactical; various SUPERNUMERARIES fill
the other posts as needed.
A star fills the VIEWSCREEN -- solar flares leap out
from its surface. All watch the beautiful pyrotechnic
display except Data, who is taking sensor readings.
RIKER
Very impressive...
TROI
It's beautiful... and frightening
at the same time.
DATA
(reading console)
Radiation bursts from the star's
surface are making precise sensor
readings difficult. It seems to
be exhibiting gravitational
instability.
Riker and Troi share a smile -- Data's scientific
perspective precludes his appreciating the beauty of
what they're seeing.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
DATA
The star's fluctuations are too
severe. It would be impossible
to settle any of the planets
in this system.
When no one acknowledges his report, he turns and looks
behind him. Everyone is watching the bursts of fire
that snake up from the star's surface.
DATA
I suggest we proceed to the next
system. Its sun is a stable main
sequence star.
PICARD
In a moment, Mister Data.
Data looks at their faces, then to the viewscreen.
He realizes what is going on, then returns to what he
finds more interesting: the sensor readings. After
a moment:
DATA
Sir, I am detecting a
transmission... emanating from
within this system
RIKER
What kind of signal?
DATA
It is self-repeating... of unknown
pattern.
PICARD
Where is it coming from?
DATA
A small moon orbiting the fourth
planet.
PICARD
Life signs?
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - TEASER 3.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
Indeterminate. I am attempting
to screen out sensor
interference...
(he manipulates a few
controls)
Readings are still inconclusive;
however, the moon's atmosphere is
capable of supporting life.
RIKER
Then it could be a distress call.
Riker looks to Picard, who nods briefly.
RIKER
Helm, take us into transport
range.
(to com)
Doctor Crusher, we need a medical
away team in transporter room two.
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
Riker heads for the turbolift, nodding for Worf to
follow.
3 EXT. THE CRASH SITE - TWILIGHT (OPTICAL)
PAN ACROSS a snowy, frozen landscape to take in the
scattered wreckage of a crashed spacecraft -- charred
metal and ship's innards litter the area. The AWAY
TEAM (BEVERLY, Riker, Worf) MATERIALIZES in the
foreground. Beverly scans with her medical tricorder.
BEVERLY
I'm reading one life form... very
weak signs.
She follows her readings toward the heart of the
wreckage.
4 CLOSE - BEVERLY
she sees something...
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - TEASER 4.
5 WIDEN
to reveal a person's legs emerging out from under some
debris. She gestures for Riker and Worf to help her
and they lift it off.
6 ANGLE - BEVERLY, RIKER AND WORF
as they see the survivor's face for the first time.
7 ANGLE - THE SURVIVOR
We understand why they reacted as they did -- the
survivor is a Borg...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT ONE 5.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
8 EXT. THE CRASH SITE -- MOMENTS LATER
Beverly is scanning the survivor's still form; she
checks a reading and administers the appropriate hypo.
The Borg is an adolescent male -- one of his arms is a
mechanical prosthetic, as is one of his eyes. Riker
stands, his face is troubled. Worf has already drawn
his phaser; Riker raises a hand that it's all right,
then keys his combadge.
RIKER
Riker to Enterprise.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Go ahead, Number One.
RIKER
We've found the wreckage of a
small craft... and one survivor.
9 INT. BRIDGE
RIKER'S COM VOICE
It's a Borg.
Picard's features seem to darken.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
(continuing)
Male, adolescent -- he's badly
hurt.
When Picard says nothing:
DATA
There is no indication of other
Borg activity within sensor range.
Picard betrays no sign of having heard him; he is
weighing the options. After a moment:
PICARD
Away team, prepare to return to
the ship.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT ONE 6.
10 EXT. THE CRASH SITE
Riker and Beverly react.
BEVERLY
We can't leave him here, he won't
survive.
When Picard doesn't answer, Riker steps in:
RIKER
I think the captain understands
that.
BEVERLY
Then I don't.
RIKER
The Borg usually collect their
dead --
BEVERLY
He's not dead --
RIKER
And that transmission --
BEVERLY
-- at least not yet --
RIKER
That transmission we intercepted
was probably a homing signal.
We have to assume they're on their
way.
BEVERLY
(acknowledging this)
At least let me stabilize his
condition, give him a chance of
surviving until they get here.
Riker can't ignore this plea.
RIKER
Captain?
11 INT. BRIDGE - ON PICARD
PICARD
Your concern is noted, Doctor.
But any intervention on your part
would only alert the Borg to our
having been here.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT ONE 7.
12 EXT. CRASH SITE (OPTICAL)
Throughout this exchange, Beverly has never stopped
treating the Borg.
BEVERLY
I'm afraid we've already turned
that corner.
She passes a wound-sealer (OPTICAL) over the Borg's
forehead as she says this, closing a nasty gash and
stopping the bloodflow.
WORF
Kill it. Now. We could make it
appear that it died in the crash
-- leave no evidence that we were
here.
Worf's solution is harsh, but it has the virtue of
showing what's at stake here. Without waiting for
a reply, he moves off to investigate the surroundings.
Riker waits for the captain's reaction.
13 INT. BRIDGE
Picard doesn't like either of his options.
Reluctantly, he chooses to allow Beverly to continue.
PICARD
Security measures must be taken
before we beam it on board.
14 EXT. CRASH SITE
Relieved, Beverly smiles, and continues her
ministrations.
BEVERLY
Standing by...
15 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD
Mister Data, notify security to
prepare a detention cell.
(to com)
Bridge to engineering.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT ONE 8.
15 CONTINUED:
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
La Forge here.
PICARD
We're bringing a Borg survivor
on board. We'll need to
neutralize the homing signal --
16 INT. ENGINEERING
GEORDI at a science station.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
(continued)
-- prevent it from sending or
receiving transmissions of any
kind.
GEORDI
I'll set up a subspace damping
field around the detention cell.
17 EXT. CRASH SITE -- A FEW MINUTES LATER
Worf has discovered several other dead Borg scattered
among the shuttle debris. He returns to Riker and
Beverly, who is still treating the injured Borg.
WORF
There are four others. None
survived.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard to Riker.
RIKER
Go ahead, Enterprise.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
We're transporting you directly
to the detention cell.
BEVERLY
I need him in sickbay --
PICARD'S COM VOICE
The cell, Doctor. Whatever
equipment you need will be brought
to you there.
Beverly doesn't like it -- but backs down.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT ONE 9.
17 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Very well.
17A INT. BRIDGE
There is a moment as Picard accepts this; then, without
a word, he stands and EXITS to his ready room. Troi
looks after him for a beat, then rises.
17B INT. READY ROOM
Picard is rounding his desk as the door CHIMES. He
stops, glances toward it, seems mildly irritated.
PICARD
Come.
The door opens and Troi comes in. Picard continues on
to his chair and busies himself with his monitor.
TROI
Captain... I just wondered if
there's anything you wanted to
talk about.
PICARD
I don't think so, Counselor.
A brief pause as he continues to fiddle with his
monitor. Troi understands this man well... how
difficult it is for him to acknowledge weakness.
TROI
I would have thought that
having a Borg on the ship would
stir some feelings...
PICARD
I am quite recovered from my
experience, thank you.
TROI
Sometimes... even when a victim
has dealt with his assault...
there are residual effects of the
event that linger. You were
treated violently by the Borg...
kidnapped, assaulted, mutilated
--
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT ONE 10.
17B CONTINUED:
PICARD
Counselor --
Hearing his own somewhat sharp tone, he checks himself,
sees Troi looking at him imperturbably.
PICARD
Counselor, I very much appreciate
your concern for me. But I assure
you, it is misplaced.
He glances at Troi, still watching him.
PICARD
I have carefully considered the
implications of having this Borg
on the ship. I have weighed the
possible risks, and I am convinced
we've done the right thing.
(beat)
I am quite comfortable with my
decision.
He is, of course, avoiding how he feels about the Borg
-- an omission of which Troi is quite aware.
TROI
I see. Well, if at any point you
want to talk more...
PICARD
I will certainly avail myself of
your help.
But he has shut her out. She EXITS, sensing that the
captain has some rough times ahead.
18 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around the moon.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/09/92 - ACT ONE 11.
19 INT. THE DETENTION CELL (OPTICAL)
Picard approaches Geordi, Worf, and two SECURITY
PERSONNEL who stand outside the force field. A NURSE
is just entering the cell.
WORF
(to Security Guard)
Lower the force field.
The force field briefly flares to let her through, then
is reinstated. Beverly is already inside, working on
the Borg. As Picard approaches, Worf addresses him.
WORF
Captain, the Borg is still
unconscious.
Beverly looks up at Picard. His face shows nothing of
what he might be feeling.
BEVERLY
He suffered massive internal
injuries. We've got the
hemorrhaging under control, but
some of the implants in his brain
were damaged. I may have to
remove them.
PICARD
The Borg will die if they're
removed permanently. Their brains
grow dependent on the biochips.
BEVERLY
Perhaps Geordi could construct
new implants...
GEORDI
They contain relatively
straightforward programming,
interface protocols... we have
the files we downloaded after your
experience, sir. I think I could
manage it.
Picard muses for a moment... turning something over
in his mind.
PICARD
Mister La Forge... do you have
enought knowledge of Borg
programming to alter the pathways
to the root command structure?
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT ONE 12-13.
19 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
I'm not sure, sir. The
subroutines are pretty
complicated... I'd probably have
to study their data processing
algorithms... that's the only way
I could trace the access codes.
Picard turns, looks for a moment at the
still-unconscious Borg.
PICARD
If we could get to the root
command... we could introduce an
invasive programming sequence
through its biochip system...
and then return it to the hive.
GEORDI
(getting it)
The Borg are so interconnected
it would spread like a virus.
PICARD
Until it infected the entire
Collective. We could disable
their neural network in one
stroke.
BEVERLY
Infected... it sounds like you're
talking about a disease.
PICARD
Quite right, Doctor. And if all
goes well, a terminal one.
Picard's demeanor is icy; Geordi, Beverly and Worf
have mixed reactions as:
20
thru OMITTED
21
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT TWO 14.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
22 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Riker, Data, Beverly, and Troi; Picard and Geordi have
just finished explaining their plan. Of the group,
Beverly has the most troubled response.
GEORDI
If this works the way I think it
will, once the invasive program
starts spreading, it'll only be
a matter of months before the Borg
suffer total systems failure.
There is a silence at this. Picard looks around the
room.
PICARD
Comments.
BEVERLY
A question. What, exactly, is
"total systems failure?"
Data doesn't recognize the sarcasm in her voice, and
so answers her straight.
DATA
The Borg are extremely
computer-dependent. A total
systems failure will destroy
them.
BEVERLY
I just think we should be plain
about that. We're talking about
annihilating an entire race...
PICARD
Which under most circumstances
would be unconscionable. But as
I see it, the Borg leave us little
choice.
RIKER
I agree. We're at war.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT TWO 15.
22 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
There's been no formal declaration
of war...
TROI
Not from our side. But certainly
from theirs. They've attacked
us in every encounter we've had.
PICARD
They have declared war on our way
of life. We are to be
assimilated.
BEVERLY
Even in war, there are rules.
You don't kill civilians
indiscriminately.
RIKER
There are no civilians among the
Borg.
PICARD
Think of them as a single,
collective being. Any one Borg
is no more an individual than your
arm or your leg.
BEVERLY
How convenient.
Picard fastens his eyes on her.
PICARD
Your point?
BEVERLY
When I look at my patient, I don't
see a collective consciousness...
I don't see a hive... I see a
living, breathing boy... who's
been hurt and who needs help.
And we're talking about sending
him back to his people as an
instrument of destruction.
Picard turns from her.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT TWO 16.
22 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
It comes down to this: We are
faced with an enemy that is
determined to destroy us, and with
whom we have no hope of
negotiating peace. Unless that
changes, we are justified in doing
anything we can to survive.
SECURITY GUARD'S COM VOICE
Security to Captain.
PICARD
Picard, here.
SECURITY GUARD'S COM VOICE
The Borg has regained
consciousness, sir.
Reactions...
PICARD
Acknowledged.
(stands)
We will proceed as planned.
23 INT. DETENTION CELL (OPTICAL)
The Borg is moving along the perimeter of the detention
cell's wall, feeling his way, looking up and down as he
covers every square inch of the wall. He is a young
man of about eighteen, and though possessing the
intimidating Borg characteristics -- prosthetic arm,
eye, etc. -- he nonetheless exudes the vulnerability of
youth. A portable SENSOR device is visible in the
cell. As he encounters the force field, he reacts,
stepping back and proceeding with his careful
exploration of the walls.
24 ON THE GROUP
outside the force field: Picard, Geordi, Beverly, and
the security team.
BEVERLY
What's he doing?
PICARD
Trying to find an access terminal,
so he can interface with the
collective. He doesn't understand
that the signal has been cut off.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT TWO 17.
24 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(reading the sensor)
He's emitting a homing signal...
and a second subspace frequency...
but our damping field is blocking
both signals.
PICARD
He's alone. For the first time
in his life he's being forced to
cope with his environment without
the resources of the Collective.
Beverly stares at the boy groping the wall.
BEVERLY
He must be hungry.
They look at her curiously.
BEVERLY
The Borg don't ingest food --
their implants can synthesize any
organic molecules their biological
tissues require. What they need
-- is energy.
She looks right at Picard, a bit challenging. Picard
addresses Geordi.
PICARD
Arrange to feed it.
GEORDI
Aye, sir.
Picard gives the Borg a last look before he EXITS.
Beverly and Geordi watch as the Borg continues his
slow, painstaking groping around the cell, looking for
something familiar.
GEORDI
I'll have to adapt a power conduit
and install it in there.
Beverly doesn't respond, and he looks at her.
Beverly's eyes are fixed on the Borg.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT TWO 18.
24 CONTINUED: (3)
BEVERLY
If I didn't know better... I'd
think he was scared.
Geordi turns and eyes the Borg, who is feeling
carefully, high on the wall, for a link-up with home.
25 INT. SHIP'S GYMNASIUM
Two figures are fencing. It soon becomes clear that
one of them is less adept than the other. He or she is
forced to retreat just to stay in the match -- but
retreat only delays the inevitable. The better fencer
lunges and makes a touch.
The two remove their masks and we realize that Picard
is the better fencer; his opponent -- is GUINAN.
GUINAN
I don't think I like this sport.
PICARD
Last week when you scored two
touches on me, you liked it well
enough.
They start walking toward the side of the room, where
"gym bags" lie on a bench.
PICARD
Today your foil was dipping too
low... you kept letting me inside.
GUINAN
And if I hold it too high, you
lunge under it. Let's face it
-- you're just better at this than
I am.
They reach the bench, sit, pull out towels, wipe their
faces, taking a breather between encounters. There is
a silence, somewhat prolonged, as they do what they do,
and when Guinan finally speaks, it is with forced
nonchalance.
GUINAN
I hear we have a guest on board.
Picard shoots her a glance.
PICARD
Yes.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT TWO 19.
25 CONTINUED:
Another silence.
GUINAN
Is that wise?
PICARD
I'm not sure. I hope so.
Another pause as Guinan stuffs things in her bag.
There's a lot going on inside, but she's keeping a lid
on it.
GUINAN
I thought I understood you,
Picard. But I don't understand
this.
PICARD
It was an errand of mercy... he
was injured, Doctor Crusher
decided for humanitarian reasons
to care for him --
GUINAN
They'll be coming, you know that.
You, of all people, know that.
Picard knows she's right. He has no answers. He
changes tacks, rises.
PICARD
Shall we go again?
She nods, and they don their masks and go to center
floor. They advance and retreat a few times, parrying.
Then Guinan lunges... stumbles... grabs at her leg
-- she's pulled a muscle.
Picard drops his foil and starts toward her in concern.
Suddenly she is up and on him in a flurry of thrusts,
and actually knocks the foil from his hand. She takes
off her mask.
GUINAN
You felt sorry for me. Look what
it got you.
And she holds his look, defiant -- and unquestionably
angry.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT TWO 20.
26 INT. DETENTION CELL (OPTICAL)
Geordi and Worf ENTER and cross toward the two Guards,
who stand to either side of the Borg's cell; Geordi
is carrying the power conduit he has constructed.
GEORDI
I'll have to go in... to connect
the power conduit.
WORF
(to Security Guard)
I will follow the Commander.
Reactivate the field once we're
through.
Both guards hold their phasers ready. Worf nods to
the Guard, who drops the force field. Geordi and
Worf step forward, moving slowly so as not to startle
the Borg, who is huddled in a corner.
GEORDI
Good, now just stay there.
The Borg looks at them; an attachment on his prosthetic
arm makes a mechanical sound as it spins, adding
tension to the moment.
Geordi moves toward the cell wall where he opens a
panel and exposes a power terminal. Worf stations
himself just inside the force field.
Geordi begins installing the conduit. The Borg takes a
step toward him.
WORF
Commander...
The Borg stops after one step. His voice has none of
the metallic edge we've heard from the Borg before.
BORG
We are Borg.
Geordi ignores him, he has a pretty good idea of what's
coming next:
BORG
You will be assimilated.
Though annoyed, Geordi continues to ignore him.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT TWO 21.
26 CONTINUED:
BORG
Resistance is futile.
GEORDI
(without stopping his
work)
Take a look around, pal, you're
not exactly in a position to make
demands.
The Borg accesses his biochips for instructions.
BORG
We must return to the Collective.
Geordi stops and looks at him.
GEORDI
Who's "we?"
The Borg seems to consider the question.
BORG
We... are Borg.
GEORDI
There's only one of you.
The Borg doesn't reply.
GEORDI
Do you have a name?
The Borg doesn't understand.
GEORDI
A means of identification?
BORG
Third, of five.
GEORDI
(figuring it out)
There were five on your ship...
Is that it? Just a number?
BORG
Third, of five.
GEORDI
It does kind of suit you.
He finishes installing the power conduit.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT TWO 22.
26 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
This is for you. It regulates
the power flow to the frequency
you're used to...
(indicating)
... and this connection should fit
the coupling on your arm.
When no reply is forthcoming.
GEORDI
You're welcome.
He gathers his tools and moves toward the force field.
GEORDI
Let's get out of here.
WORF
Lower the force field.
The Security Guard lowers the field, then reactivates
it when Geordi and Worf step through. They turn to
watch the Borg, who moves toward the conduit. He seems
suspicious of Geordi's motives, but after a brief
deliberation, decides to plug in.
GEORDI
He's hungry all right.
No optical effect should be necessary to convey the
sense that power is flowing into his depleted system
-- his carriage will indicate that he is being
replenished. He turns and fastens his orb on the two
of them.
BORG
Why do you do this?
GEORDI
I'm just a nice guy at heart.
Feeling better?
The Borg stares at him.
BORG
You are not-Borg.
GEORDI
That's right. And hope to stay
that way.
The Borg looks at his arm, attached to the power
conduit, then back at Geordi and Worf. He seems
perplexed. He is truly adrift, alone in a world he
cannot understand. He falls back on basic Borg:
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT TWO 23.
26 CONTINUED: (3)
BORG
You will be assimilated.
Resistance is futile.
GEORDI
That's gratitude for you.
Off the expressionless face of the Borg we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT THREE 24.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
27 INT. SCIENCE LAB (OPTICAL)
Geordi with Beverly, making plans to transport the
Borg. Geordi has hooked up a power conduit similar
to the one Geordi set up in the detention cell. There
are consoles, monitors, equipment, etc.
GEORDI
I've been rationing his portions
of energy. I think he
understands -- if he cooperates,
he gets fed. If not...
(shrugs)
BEVERLY
Like a rat in a cage.
Geordi gives her a look; he knows she's less than
enthusiastic about this plan. He tries to explain.
GEORDI
If I'm gonna figure out his
command pathways, I have to learn
how he processes information.
The only way I know to do that
is to give him perceptual tests.
That means getting his
cooperation.
BEVERLY
So he can participate in the
destruction of his entire species.
GEORDI
(frustrated)
Doctor...
BEVERLY
I know, I know. We're at war.
She takes a breath, tries to regain her control.
BEVERLY
I'm here to help you... but I
don't have to like it.
Geordi decides to leave it at that. He surveys the
room, satisfied that they're ready.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT THREE 25.
27 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
I think we're ready to transport
him. If he gives us any trouble,
we can access the force field
through this console.
(gestures)
Ready?
Beverly nods and he keys his insignia.
GEORDI
La Forge to transporter room three.
We're ready here.
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE
We are standing by, Commander.
GEORDI
Energize.
The Borg and an N.D. Security Guard MATERIALIZE in
the lab. The boy looks disoriented, uncertain of his
surroundings. He looks around the room for anything
familiar... and spots the power conduit. He lifts his
prosthetic arm toward it.
GEORDI
You want some?
The Borg turns and looks at him. He nods. Geordi
moves to the conduit and gestures to the Borg to hook
on. He does. Worf retreats to the door.
GEORDI
Doctor Crusher, this is Third of
Five. Third of Five, this is our
ship's doctor.
The Borg looks puzzled. He stares at Beverly; what
she sees is a boy, almost the age of her son, who is
lost in a strange world.
BEVERLY
(warmly)
Hello.
BORG
What is a doctor?
BEVERLY
A doctor heals the sick. Repairs
the injured.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT THREE 26.
27 CONTINUED: (2)
BORG
The sick and injured are
reabsorbed. Others take their
place.
BEVERLY
(gently)
That didn't happen to you. When
we found you, you were dying.
I saved your life.
The Borg stares at her, trying to understand this.
BORG
Why?
BEVERLY
That's my duty. To help those
who are hurt.
The Borg frowns, trying to understand. He looks at
his arm, drawing energy from the conduit, and then
looks up at Geordi.
BORG
You give us food...
GEORDI
Right.
BORG
Is that your duty?
Beverly eyes Geordi; he looks a little uncomfortable.
GEORDI
Yeah. That's right.
He turns away to a console, begins entering
instructions.
GEORDI
Listen, Third of Five... Doctor
Crusher here has repaired a lot
of the damage to your biochip
implants. We want to run a few
tests... see if everything is
working okay.
The Borg looks from one to the other, confused and
uncertain, but without guile. He is an innocent, and
it is this quality more than any other that will come
to play on the Enterprise crew.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/09/92 - ACT THREE 27.
27 CONTINUED: (3)
BORG
Tests...
BEVERLY
I'll show you some diagrams...
ask you some questions about
them... it's very simple, really.
The Borg has nothing to fall back on. Cut off from
the hive, he is in a sense blind, adrift in a world
that makes no sense.
BORG
(vaguely)
You will be assimilated...
GEORDI
Right. But before that happens,
could we maybe ask you a few
questions?
The Borg looks from one to the other, takes a leap.
BORG
We will answer.
GEORDI
Terrific. Okay, Third of Five,
right over here...
He gestures at the Borg, to get him to come and stand
in front of the console. The Borg moves uncertainly
toward it, then stops.
BORG
What is your designation?
GEORDI
Designation?
BORG
(indicating himself)
Third, of Five...
BEVERLY
You mean our names. We don't have
designations -- we have names.
I'm Beverly...
(points)
This is Geordi.
The Borg puzzles over this.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/09/92 - ACT THREE 27A.
27 CONTINUED: (4)
BORG
Do I have a -- name?
GEORDI
Do you want one?
BORG
A name...
BEVERLY
I'm Beverly, this is Geordi...
(points)
... and you...
BORG
You...
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT THREE 28.
27 CONTINUED: (4)
BEVERLY
You...
Geordi has a thought.
GEORDI
That's it. Hugh. What do you
think?
BORG
You.
GEORDI
Not you... Hugh.
BORG
Hugh.
Beverly smiles. This is progress.
BEVERLY
All right... I'm Beverly...
She points at Geordi.
GEORDI
I'm Geordi...
She points at the Borg. He hesitates, then --
BORG
We are Hugh.
Geordi and Beverly both smile. Hugh looks from one
to the other, puzzled at the response. But even he
looks pleased with himself.
28 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around the moon.
29 INT. SCIENCE LAB (OPTICAL)
The Borg is looking at a topographical representation
of a complex geometric shape DISPLAYED on a SCREEN
(where shaded lines represent the far side of the shape
as seen through its solid mass).
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT THREE 29.
29 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Now imagine what this shape would
look like if it were turned inside
out.
She changes the display to show three choices; all are
quite complex and not very obviously different from
each other.
BEVERLY
Which one is it?
Geordi's face shows that even he's not sure which one
it is.
BORG
This one.
BEVERLY
That's right.
(to Geordi)
He's gotten every one -- eight
for eight. That blows the top
right off the spatial acuity
percentiles.
GEORDI
It's the prosthetic eye... it
seems to be giving him very
complex visual information...
BEVERLY
Like some kind of holographic
imaging system.
GEORDI
That could be helpful.
He turns to the Borg, who has been following this
interchange with some fascination.
GEORDI
Hugh, I'd like to take a closer
look at your eyepiece. Is that
okay?
To Geordi's surprise, Hugh reaches up and with one
quick motion, removes his eyepiece.
BORG
Here.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT THREE 30.
29 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Well... thanks.
He takes the eyepiece and begins inspecting it. During
the next, he studies the device, but keeps getting
drawn to the conversation between the Borg and Beverly.
BORG
When you are assimilated, you will
have a similar device.
BEVERLY
Hugh, do you understand that we
don't want to be assimilated?
BORG
Why do you resist us?
BEVERLY
Because... we don't want to live
the way you do.
The Borg seems to puzzle over this.
BORG
Here it is quiet. There are no
other voices.
GEORDI
Other voices?
BORG
On a Borg ship we live with the
thoughts of the others in our
minds. Thousands of voices...
with us always.
Beverly is touched by this spontaneous outpouring of
the pleasures of Borg life. She realizes once more
how alien it must be for him here.
BEVERLY
I think what you're saying... is
that you're lonely.
The Borg frowns, not exactly understanding the concept.
Geordi gives him back the eyepiece.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT THREE 31.
29 CONTINUED: (3)
GEORDI
Here you go.
The Borg reinserts the eyepiece, then studies the two
of them.
BORG
When you have completed these
tests, what will be done with us?
It is an innocent question, devoid of guile. Geordi
feels a bit uncomfortable, falls back on a partial
truth.
GEORDI
We'll send you home.
Hugh nods at this, seeming almost buoyed.
BORG
We will rejoin the Collective.
Geordi and Beverly exchange a glance... Geordi seems
almost as troubled as Beverly about what they're doing.
30 INT. TEN FORWARD
Geordi at the bar; Guinan listening.
GEORDI
It's funny... when I first started
out, I had no problem with
creating this invasive program...
but the more I work with Hugh,
the more I --
GUINAN
Hugh?
GEORDI
That's the name we gave him.
GUINAN
You named a Borg...
GEORDI
Yeah.
(a little defensive)
It was easier to have something
to call him.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT THREE 32.
30 CONTINUED:
GUINAN
Okay, so now you have a Borg named
Hugh...
GEORDI
And... he's not anything like I'd
expected.
GUINAN
How so?
GEORDI
I don't know... he's... he just
seems like a kid.. a long way from
home...
Guinan eyes him skeptically.
GUINAN
You're the second person today
that's talked about this Borg as
if he were a lost child...
GEORDI
And now I'm having second thoughts
about what we're doing.
Programming him like a walking
bomb... sending him back to
destroy the others...
Guinan leans down to him. Again, the strain of anger
wells up in her, and she speaks with intensity.
GUINAN
This "kid's" big brothers are
going to hunt us down. They won't
rest until they have him back.
And they'll destroy us in the
process -- without any of this
soul-searching you're going
through.
GEORDI
Maybe you should go talk to him.
It might not seem so clear cut
then.
GUINAN
I wouldn't have anything to say.
Geordi swings off the stool.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT THREE 33.
30 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Then why don't you just listen?
That's what you do best, isn't
it?
And he's gone, leaving Guinan with a welter of
feelings.
31 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around the moon where the Borg ship was found.
32 INT. BRIDGE
Picard ENTERS from his ready room. Data is at ops,
Riker is standing, looking over his shoulder.
PICARD
What is it, Number One?
RIKER
We've picked up a vessel on long
range scanners, headed this way.
Picard knows very well who it might be.
PICARD
Analysis.
DATA
The vessel is traveling at warp
seven-point-six. Mass:
two-point-five million metric
tons, configuration: ...cubical.
RIKER
The Borg...
DATA
Its dimensions indicate that it
is a scout ship similar to the
one that crashed.
When Picard says nothing:
DATA
Interference from the star's
radiation will shield us from
their sensors. We should remain
undetected until they enter this
system.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT THREE 34.
32 CONTINUED:
PICARD
How long do we have?
DATA
At present speed they will arrive
in thirty-one hours, seven
minutes.
33 ANGLE - PICARD
The concern on his face is evident.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 35.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
34 INT. DETENTION CELL
Guinan ENTERS and crosses toward the cell where the
Borg is being held. She and the security guards
exchange a nod.
35 CLOSE - GUINAN
as she sees the Borg for the first time. Myriad
feelings rise in her.
36 ANGLE - BORG
as he sees her. He moves forward in a curious,
friendly way. They stare at each other for a moment.
GUINAN
Well... you don't look so tough.
BORG
(a bit puzzled)
We are Borg.
A silence as she inspects him.
GUINAN
I hear they gave you a name.
A little flicker of -- pride? -- from the Borg, who
nods.
BORG
Yes. We are Hugh.
She stares at him, a bit challenging, as though waiting
for him to speak.
GUINAN
Well? Aren't you going to tell
me I have to be assimilated?
BORG
You wish to be assimilated... ?
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 36.
36 CONTINUED:
GUINAN
No, I don't wish. But that's what
you people do.
The Borg nods. He's getting a real strong message
about how people don't want to become part of the
collective.
GUINAN
Resistance is futile. Right?
Hugh repeats the litany, but it sounds halting and
tentative.
BORG
Resistance is futile...
GUINAN
I've got news for you. It isn't.
Some of my ancestors resisted the
Borg, when you came to assimilate
us. A few escaped.
BORG
(confused)
Resistance is not futile...
GUINAN
No...
She looks at him, caught off guard a moment by his
admission, but still needing to vent her pain.
GUINAN
But thanks to you, there aren't
many of us. We're scattered
around the galaxy... we have no
home... we don't even have each
other.
The Borg takes this in, considers, is reminded of
something he recently heard.
BORG
What you are saying... is that
you are lonely.
Guinan stares at him, not believing what she's heard.
GUINAN
What... ?
BORG
You have no others. You have no
home.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/06/93 - ACT FOUR 37.
36 CONTINUED: (2)
Guinan is taken aback. The Borg stares at her, touches
his chest.
BORG
We are also lonely.
And she has no answer.
37 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around the moon.
38 INT. SCIENCE LAB
Geordi is with the Borg. Worf is not present -- they
are alone, attesting to the comfort Geordi is feeling
about Hugh's presence. Geordi is working with the
prosthetic armpiece while Hugh watches with interest.
BORG
What is Geordi doing?
GEORDI
Just studying the components in
your prosthesis.
BORG
Why?
Geordi glances at him. He's more and more
uncomfortable with the task he's been assigned.
GEORDI
We're just trying to learn more
about you.
BORG
Why?
Hugh is as persistent as a four-year-old who's learned
the word "why?"
GEORDI
You're very different from us.
Part of what we do is to learn
more about other species.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 38.
38 CONTINUED:
BORG
We assimilate species. Then we
know everything about them.
GEORDI
Yeah. I know.
BORG
Is that not easier?
GEORDI
Maybe it is. It's just not what
we do.
BORG
Why?
Geordi sighs, puts the armpiece down. He struggles
for a way to explain.
GEORDI
Think about it this way. Every
time you talk about yourself, you
use the word "we." We do this,
we do that... you don't know how
to think of yourself as a single
individual. You don't say, "I
want this," or "I am Hugh."
The Borg stares at him, trying to follow.
GEORDI
We are all separate individuals.
I am Geordi. I choose what I want
to do with my life. I make
decisions for myself. For people
like me, losing that individuality
-- is almost worse than dying.
There is a silence. Hugh ponders this.
BORG
When you sleep... there are no
voices in your mind.
GEORDI
No.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 39.
38 CONTINUED: (2)
BORG
Are you ever...
(testing the new word)
... lonely?
A bit of a smile from Geordi.
GEORDI
Sometimes. But that's why we have
friends.
BORG
Friends...
GEORDI
Sure. Someone you talk to...
who can be with you when you're
lonely... who makes you feel
better.
What is almost a smile passes over Hugh. With utter
simplicity, he gazes at Geordi, understanding the
concept fully.
BORG
Like Geordi... and Hugh.
Geordi stares at him. Stricken.
39 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Geordi and Data are showing Picard the programming
anomaly they've designed. A topographical map of a
complex geometric shape is displayed on the wall
monitor. There is something odd about it, like an M.C.
Escher drawing, where perspective is played with.
GEORDI
That's it, Captain.
PICARD
It looks harmless enough.
GEORDI
We had to disguise it as something
innocuous. The Borg have ways
of screening out programming
anomalies.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT FOUR 40.
39 CONTINUED:
Picard studies the strange form on the monitor.
PICARD
How can a geometric form
disable a computer system?
DATA
The shape is a paradox. It cannot
exist in real space or time.
GEORDI
When Hugh's imaging apparatus
imprints it on his bio-chips,
he'll try to analyze it.
DATA
He will be unsuccessful, and will
store the shape in his memory
banks. It will be shunted to a
subroutine for further analysis.
GEORDI
When the Borg download his memory,
they'll incorporate it into their
network. Then they'll try to
analyze it.
DATA
It is designed so that each
approach they take will spawn an
anomalous solution. The anomalies
are designed to interact with each
other, linking together to form
an endless and unsolvable puzzle.
PICARD
Quite original. How long before
total systems failure?
GEORDI
Not until the shape has gone
through several hundred
computational cycles.
PICARD
When can you begin the process?
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 41.
39 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Another twenty hours. Doctor
Crusher wants to make sure the
new implants have taken hold.
PICARD
Very well. Proceed as soon as
you're ready.
He turns to walk away, but Geordi follows.
GEORDI
Captain...
Picard turns back.
GEORDI
I have to admit... I've been
having second thoughts about this
plan.
PICARD
For what reason?
GEORDI
Well... I've been getting to know
him. The Borg.
Picard stares at him.
PICARD
I see.
Geordi is uncomfortable under his gaze. He feels the
need to explain.
GEORDI
He's not what I thought he would
be, sir. He has feelings... he's
homesick...
(shaking his head)
I don't know... it just seems
wrong to use him like this.
There is a cold silence. Picard doesn't particularly
want to think about this issue; he'd rather keep his
emotional distance. He tries to find a way to help
Geordi keep his.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 42.
39 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
Centuries ago, when laboratory
animals were used for research...
scientists would occasionally
become attached to the creatures.
That was a problem if the
experiment involved killing them.
(beat)
I would suggest you unattach
yourself from the Borg, Mister
La Forge.
GEORDI
(reluctantly)
Aye, Captain.
And Picard EXITS, leaving Geordi behind, still
troubled.
40 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS
Picard is ready for bed, carrying a cup of tea and a
book toward the bedroom. The door CHIME sounds.
PICARD
Come.
The door opens and there stands Guinan. Surprised,
Picard gestures her in.
PICARD
Guinan... please, come in.
She does. She seems a little uncomfortable.
GUINAN
You sure? Looks like you're all
set for a quiet evening.
PICARD
I'm delighted to see you. Would
you like something to drink?
GUINAN
No, thanks.
She wanders the room a bit, picking up an artifact and
setting it down, gazing out the window.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 43.
40 CONTINUED:
Picard waits patiently, knowing she'll get to whatever
brought her here in her own time.
GUINAN
I was thinking about how you said
my foil was dipping the other
day... maybe I should do some
exercises... build up a little
strength in my arm...
PICARD
A strong forearm is always an
advantage in fencing...
GUINAN
Not to mention tending bar...
He waits. She goes to a chair, sits.
GUINAN
About the Borg...
Now it's his turn to be wary. What could she have in
mind about the Borg to bring her here at this hour?
GUINAN
Aren't you just a bit surprised
by him?
PICARD
Surprised...
GUINAN
Yes. Did you know he has a name?
Picard gives her a look -- surprised.
GUINAN
La Forge gave it to him. His
name's Hugh. And he's lonely.
Picard is utterly perplexed, both by what she's saying
and the fact that it's Guinan saying it.
GUINAN
I don't know what made me go see
him. La Forge told me I should,
but I said no.
She shakes her head, perplexed by herself.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 44.
40 CONTINUED: (2)
GUINAN
And then... I found myself
standing there, staring at him.
Curiosity, I figured... just
curiosity.
She breaks off, struggling in a way we haven't seen
Guinan struggle before.
GUINAN
Picard... I want to hear you say
that you're sure -- that what
you're doing is right.
Picard exhales. The last thing he wants is another
assault on his decision.
PICARD
If you've come here to persuade
me not to use the invasive
program...
GUINAN
No -- I think I'm asking you to
persuade me.
PICARD
Two days ago, you were so upset
about the Borg even being on the
ship that you tore the foil out
of my hand. Now you're here
questioning whether he should be
treated as an enemy.
GUINAN
I know. But... when you talk to
him... face to face... can you
honestly say you have no doubts?
PICARD
(after a beat)
I haven't talked to him.
Guinan is amazed at this.
GUINAN
Why not?
PICARD
I see no need --
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT FOUR 45.
40 CONTINUED: (3)
GUINAN
If you're going to use this person
--
PICARD
It's a Borg, damn it, not a
person --!
GUINAN
If you're going to use this person
to destroy his race, don't you
think you should look him in the
eye once before you do it?
(beat)
Besides... I'm not so sure he is
Borg anymore.
PICARD
(fed up)
Because he's been given a name
by a member of the crew doesn't
mean he's no longer Borg. Because
he's young doesn't mean he's
innocent. He is what he is and
in spite of the efforts to turn
him into some kind of pet -- I
will not alter our plans.
Guinan takes this in, eyes him.
GUINAN
Fine. But unless you talk to him
-- at least once -- you might find
that decision harder to live with
than you realize.
And on that note, they hold a look.
41 INT. READY ROOM (OPTICAL)
Picard paces. Then, the call he's been waiting for.
WORF'S COM VOICE
Worf to Captain Picard...
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 46.
41 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Yes, Lieutenant.
WORF'S COM VOICE
We are ready to transport.
PICARD
Proceed.
Worf and the Borg MATERIALIZE in the ready room.
Picard stares at the Borg.
PICARD
You may wait outside, Lieutenant.
Worf looks from the Borg to Picard -- he doesn't like
it, but he EXITS. Picard and Hugh regard each other.
Neither says anything for a moment; Hugh seems
bewildered by a dawning recognition.
BORG
Locutus...
Picard realizes that Hugh recognizes him... this
presents an opportunity. He looks directly at the
Borg.
PICARD
Yes. I am Locutus... of Borg.
Confused, Hugh accesses his database -- but there is
nothing there for him.
BORG
Why are you here?
PICARD
This is a primitive culture. I
am here to facilitate its
incorporation. Identify yourself.
BORG
Hugh.
PICARD
Identify yourself.
BORG
We are Hugh.
PICARD
This is not a Borg identification.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 47.
41 CONTINUED: (2)
Hugh hesitates, as though trying to reassess himself.
BORG
Third... of five.
PICARD
This culture will be assimilated.
Another hesitation.
BORG
They... do not wish it.
PICARD
Irrelevant.
BORG
They will resist us.
PICARD
Resistance is futile.
BORG
Resistance... is not futile.
Picard glares sternly at him. Hugh does not back down.
BORG
Some have escaped.
PICARD
They will be found. It is
inevitable. All will be
assimilated.
BORG
Must... Geordi be assimilated?
Picard looks at him, amazed.
PICARD
Yes.
Hugh hesitates... his thought processes are new,
strange, uncomfortable.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 48.
41 CONTINUED: (3)
BORG
Geordi does not wish it.
(trying to explain)
He would rather die than be
assimilated.
PICARD
Then he will die.
Hugh looks up at him, clearly disturbed.
BORG
No. Geordi must not die.
Hugh takes a breath, looks straight at Picard.
BORG
Geordi is... a friend.
Picard is taken aback by this, but wants to push it a
bit further.
PICARD
You will assist us in assimilating
this vessel.
Hugh hesitates.
PICARD
You are Borg. You will assist
us.
Hugh takes a breath... then...
BORG
I will not.
Picard stares at him... hears him say the word "I." He
backs off from his Locutus role, amazed by what the
Borg is manifesting.
PICARD
What did you say?
BORG
I will not assist you.
PICARD
"I"... ?
BORG
Geordi must not be assimilated.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FOUR 49.
41 CONTINUED: (4)
PICARD
But... you are Borg.
Another pause...
BORG
No. I am -- Hugh.
Picard stares at him. This boy has utterly taken him
aback. Now Picard is in a true dilemma.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT FIVE 50.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
42 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Geordi, Riker, and Beverly. Pick up in
mid-conversation.
PICARD
... I think I deliberately avoided
speaking with the Borg because
I didn't want anything to get in
the way of our plan.
(beat)
But now something has. As far
as I can tell, he seems to be a
fully realized individual. He
has even accepted me as Picard,
Captain of this ship, and not as
Locutus.
There are varying reactions to this... Geordi and
Beverly on the positive side, Worf and Riker somewhat
concerned.
GEORDI
Then... you've reconsidered the
plan?
PICARD
Yes. If we used him in that
manner, we'd be no better than
the enemy we seek to destroy.
I want other options.
A beat as they consider this delicate issue.
RIKER
We could return him to the crash
site... but we'd have to erase
his memories of being on the
Enterprise.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT FIVE 51.
42 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
But... if we erase his memories,
then who he is, who he's become,
would be destroyed.
RIKER
Isn't that the point? He'd be
reassimilated into the hive
without any questions...
GEORDI
It just seems wrong... we help
turn him into an individual...
then we take that away from him...
BEVERLY
Is there a danger that the Borg
might destroy him -- if they
discover what's happened?
PICARD
I doubt it. They have nothing
to gain by that. It's more likely
they'll simply wipe out his memory
of this experience.
RIKER
Then either way his memories will
be erased.
PICARD
But perhaps...
He hesitates, realizing that what he is about to say
might sound improbable.
PICARD
... in the short time before they
purge those memories... the sense
of individuality which he has
gained here will be transmitted
throughout the Collective.
They look at him curiously.
PICARD
Every one of the Borg will have
the opportunity to experience the
feeling of... singularity.
(MORE)

STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/06/93 - ACT FIVE 52.
42 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD (cont'd)
Perhaps that would be the most
pernicious program of all... the
knowledge of self, spread through
the Borg Collective in that brief
moment, might alter them forever.
He looks at the group.
PICARD
We will leave his memories intact.
BEVERLY
I have only one question.
The others turn to her.
BEVERLY
What if he doesn't want to go
back?
Various reactions to this question which apparently
hadn't occurred to them.
43 INT. READY ROOM
Hugh is looking at Picard's fish tank, intrigued. A
security guard stands by the door, watching him. The
door opens and Picard and Geordi ENTER. Picard
dismisses the guard with a nod.
GEORDI
Hello, Hugh.
BORG
Hello, Geordi.
PICARD
Hugh... a Borg rescue vessel is
approaching. It will be here
within three hours. We can return
you to the crash site, where they
will find you and take you home.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT FIVE 53.
43 CONTINUED:
Hugh doesn't answer, just watches Picard.
PICARD
Or... if you wish, you may remain
here with us.
BORG
What I wish... is irrelevant.
GEORDI
It's not irrelevant. It matters
to us.
BORG
No Borg leaves the Collective.
If they find I am missing -- they
will come for me.
PICARD
Hugh, we'll deal with the
repercussions later. What we must
know is what you want.
This is another foreign concept to Hugh. He struggles
with it.
BORG
You are many. I am one. My needs
are not important.
GEORDI
Don't you understand? We're
giving you a choice.
BORG
Choice...
GEORDI
Yeah. Do you want to go back with
the Borg... or stay with us?
BORG
I could stay with you... ?
PICARD
Yes. We would grant you asylum.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT FIVE 54.
43 CONTINUED: (2)
Hugh turns away. This is overwhelming to him... the
idea of choice, the freedom -- and responsibility --
of making a decision for himself... these are dazzling,
overpowering concepts.
BORG
Choose... what I want...
He turns back, looks at Geordi, hopeful for a brief
instant.
BORG
I would choose to stay with
Geordi.
But then that flicker dwindles and dies.
BORG
But it is too dangerous. They
will follow.
He takes a breath, draws himself up.
BORG
Return me to the crash site. It
is the only way.
There is a silence as Picard and Geordi assess him...
understanding the sacrifice he is making.
GEORDI
Hugh... think about this... are
you sure?
BORG
Yes.
They hold a look which is full of sorrow.
44 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around the moon.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/04/92 - ACT FIVE 55.
45 OMITTED
46 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Geordi and Beverly are there with Hugh; a Transporter
Chief is behind the console. Picard ENTERS.
PICARD
(to Hugh)
The Borg ship will enter orbit of
the moon within an hour. You'll
soon be headed home.
Hugh nods, but doesn't speak. Picard turns to Geordi
and Beverly.
PICARD
We'll beam him down and take
position in the star's
chromosphere. Its interference
will hide us from their sensors.
Beverly steps toward Hugh.
BEVERLY
Goodbye, Hugh. I'm very glad I
got to know you.
BORG
Goodbye, Beverly.
(beat)
You saved my life.
GEORDI
(to Hugh)
It's not too late to change your
mind. You can stay here.
There is the briefest of hesitations, then Hugh shakes
his head.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/06/93 - ACT FIVE 56.
46 CONTINUED:
BORG
I must return.
GEORDI
Captain, I'd like to go down with
him.
Picard considers a beat.
PICARD
My experience suggests that they
would ignore him.
(to Hugh)
Would you agree?
BORG
The Borg assimilate civilizations.
Not individuals.
BEVERLY
(to Picard)
But, Captain, they kidnapped
you...
PICARD
Because they needed a liaison to
communicate with Humans. The
Borg ignored every away team we
sent to their ship, including
yours, Doctor.
Beverly acknowledges.
PICARD
(to Geordi)
You may accompany him.
Geordi steps with Hugh onto the transporter pad.
Picard looks at Hugh.
PICARD
Goodbye.
BORG
Captain... I do not want to forget
that I am Hugh...
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT FIVE 57.
46 CONTINUED: (2)
Picard's look reflects his hope that Hugh will be
successful. Then he turns to the Transporter Chief.
PICARD
Energize.
Hugh and Geordi DEMATERIALIZE. Picard stares after
them... his feelings about the Borg now unalterably
more complicated.
47 EXT. CRASH SITE - TWILIGHT (OPTICAL)
Geordi and Hugh MATERIALIZE into the snowy landscape.
They move toward the wreckage of the Borg scout ship.
Hugh gazes at the remains of his ship, the
still-scattered bodies of his colleagues.
GEORDI
(gesturing)
We found you there... in the
middle of that debris.
Hugh nods, stares at the spot.
BORG
Then that is where I will wait.
Geordi gives him a sad nod.
48 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it takes position on the far side of the star.
49 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - 3/03/92 - ACT FIVE 58.
49 CONTINUED:
DATA
We are now entering position.
Radiation levels are rising.
PICARD
Increase power to the shields.
Hold us here.
RIKER
Status of the Borg ship?
DATA
Solar radiation is rendering our
sensors inoperable. At last known
course and speed, the Borg vessel
will enter the system in three
minutes.
50 EXT. CRASH SITE
Geordi and Hugh. They are awkward... the time has come
for goodbyes... neither knows how to say them. Geordi
is feeling more than he could ever have imagined
possible.
GEORDI
Well... I guess this is it.
(beat)
So long, Hugh.
BORG
Goodbye, Geordi. I will try to
remember you.
Geordi can't think of anything else to say, so he nods,
emotion welling in him. He backs off a little,
waiting.
51 ANGLE - TWO BORG (OPTICAL)
They MATERIALIZE nearby, somewhat close to Geordi.
They look around for a moment, their dispassionate gaze
sweeping past Geordi, and fixing on Hugh. They move
toward Geordi... but then walk right past him, heading
for Hugh.
STAR TREK: "I, Borg" - REV. 3/5/93 - ACT FIVE 59.
52 ON THE GROUP
as the two Borg approach Hugh. One of them interfaces
with him -- connecting through the jacks on their
prosthetic arms. They are exchanging information.
53 GEORDI
doesn't know what this means. Has the Hugh he knew
been obliterated by assimilation back into the hive?
54 BACK TO SCENE (OPTICAL)
When Hugh moves, it is with the same mechanical gait
as the others. The three Borg set about scavenging
the remains of their dead comrades -- they remove the
technological components they're interested in
efficiently and without evident emotion. As they
finish with the dead Borg, the corpses FIZZLE into
nothingness.
55 ANGLE - GEORDI
Geordi is unsure: Hugh seems no different from the
other Borg... or is he merely acting the part?
56 REVERSE ANGLE - FROM GEORDI'S POINT OF VIEW
(OPTICAL)
The three Borg assemble, carrying what they've
scavenged. They all stare straight ahead as they
TRANSPORT OUT -- but just before Hugh DEMATERIALIZES he
turns and looks at Geordi. Their eyes meet, it is
unmistakable. Then he's gone...
57 ANGLE - GEORDI
He is hopeful that this last look means something of
Hugh will survive assimilation... Still, the thought
of what lies ahead for Hugh fills him with sadness...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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