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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Inheritance"
#40277-262
Written by
Dan Koeppel
Directed by
Robert Scheerer
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 This script is not for publication or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
SEPTEMBER 27, 1993
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Inheritance"
CAST
PICARD JULIANA
RIKER PRAN
DATA SOONG
BEVERLY
TROI
WORF
GEORDI
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES N.D. ATREAN
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Inheritance"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
BRIDGE
ENGINEERING
TEN FORWARD
HOLODECK
DATA'S QUARTERS
SICKBAY
TRANSPORTER ROOM
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
FIRST MAGMA POCKET
SECOND MAGMA POCKET
SHAFT
NARROW PASSAGEWAY
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/28/93 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Inheritance"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
ATREA A-tree-uh
PRAN PRAN
MAVALA mah-VAH-lah
TERLINA tur-LEE-nah
FOURIER four-ee-YAY
CORVALLEN kor-VAL-len
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: The Next Generation
"Inheritance"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
In orbit around the planet Atrea.
PICARD (V.O)
Captain's Log, Stardate 47410.2.
The Atrean government has
requested assistance in averting
a natural disaster that is
threatening their world. Two of
their geologists have come aboard
to discuss the problem, one of
whom is a human who has been
living on Atrea Four.
2 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL)
PICARD, GEORDI, and DATA look on as Atrean Scientist
PRAN TAINER stands before an OKUDAGRAM depicting a
cross-section of the Atrean planet. Also present is
Pran's human wife, JULIANA TAINER, a fiftyish woman
dressed in Atrean fashion. The Atreans are a humanoid
species, only slightly different from us.
JULIANA
Captain, our situation has
worsened since my husband and I
first contacted you. The molten
core of our planet is not just
cooling -- it's begun to solidify.
PRAN
Our gravitational field has been
affected -- seismic activity has
increased by a factor of three.
JULIANA
If the cooling continues at this
rate -- Atrea will become
uninhabitable within thirteen
months.
Everyone takes in this grim news.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - TEASER 1A.
2 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
We could minimize seismic activity
by creating isobaric fissures and
releasing some of the tectonic
stress -- but that would just be
a temporary fix.
DATA
The only permanent solution would
be to re-liquefy the core.
Geordi stands and moves to the Okudagram.
GEORDI
These pockets in the magma layer --
how close are they to the molten
region of the core?
JULIANA
A few kilometers, why?
Geordi turns to Data.
GEORDI
You think that's close enough to
try ferro-plasmic infusion?
Data considers, then acknowledges the possibility.
Juliana and Pran share a look -- they're not sure what
this means.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
Data moves toward the monitor, gesturing.
DATA
The procedure would involve using
our ship's phasers to drill down
through the planet's surface and
into the pockets -- where we would
set up a series of plasma infusion
units.
GEORDI
We'd trigger the units by firing
a modulated energy burst down
through the shafts.
Juliana addresses Data.
JULIANA
I see... injecting sufficient
plasma directly into the core
should trigger a chain reaction...
and that will reliquify the
magma...
DATA
It should be possible to stabilize
the core temperature at ninety-three
percent of normal.
PRAN
If it works, the core would remain
molten for centuries.
Picard lets Pran and Juliana consider for a beat.
PICARD
If you give your permission, we'll
begin immediately.
PRAN
Very well. But before we proceed,
I'd like to update our geological
surveys.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - TEASER 3.
2 CONTINUED: (3)
GEORDI
I'll be glad to help you, Doctor.
PICARD
(to Pran and Juliana)
I've assigned you quarters during
the time we're here. Please make
yourselves comfortable.
PRAN
Thank you, Captain.
The meeting breaks up and Picard, Pran, and Geordi
EXIT. Data starts to follow, but Juliana stops him.
JULIANA
Data --
Data turns to her.
DATA
Yes, Doctor?
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - TEASER 4.
2 CONTINUED: (4)
She has an almost expectant look on her face -- a kind
of breathless anticipation.
JULIANA
Do you have any idea who I am?
Data is puzzled by the question.
DATA
You are Doctor Juliana Tainer.
Juliana exhales slightly, as though a question of long
standing had finally been resolved.
JULIANA
You lost all your early memories.
We thought you would -- but we
couldn't know for certain.
Data is now even more puzzled. He looks at her
quizzically.
DATA
Have we met before?
She looks at him with what can only be called pride,
eyes shining.
JULIANA
Oh, Data, I was there -- right
from the beginning, on Omicron
Theta. I helped create you.
(proudly)
And now... look at you.
DATA
(taken aback)
You were a colleague of Doctor
Soong?
She laughs, a warm, merry laugh that lights her face.
JULIANA
Yes, I certainly was -- and I was
also his wife. In a way, I
suppose you could say -- I'm your
mother.
Off Data's reaction to this unexpected revelation...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT ONE 5.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
3 INT. TEN FORWARD
Data and Juliana at a table. Her eyes are shining as
she looks at him...
JULIANA
I still can't believe it... seeing
you again after all these years...
Data is curious about the situation, but of course not
sharing Juliana's emotional response.
DATA
Doctor, I have no memory of you.
JULIANA
There's a reason for that... we
wiped your processors after we'd
finished refining your
programming.
She leans forward, looks at him lovingly.
JULIANA
(continuing)
Why don't you tell me what you do
remember... and then I'll fill in
the gaps.
DATA
(pondering)
My memory record begins when I was
activated by the Starfleet
officers who found me on the
Omicron Theta outpost.
JULIANA
After the attack by the
Crystalline Entity --
DATA
Yes. All of the inhabitants of
the colony had been killed.
Juliana acknowledges somberly.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT ONE 6.
3 CONTINUED:
DATA
But -- I discovered that my memory
banks contained the contents of
their journals and logs.
JULIANA
(a gentle smile)
We thought you might find their
experiences useful... after your
childhood, we figured you needed
all the help you could get.
DATA
My -- childhood?
JULIANA
(laughing)
That's what I called it. You were
like a baby at first -- a hundred
kilogram baby, but still...
She shakes her head, smiling at the recollection.
JULIANA
(continuing)
It took you a while to develop
motor skills... learn how to
process sensory information. And
of course Noonian was never
satisfied... he kept tinkering,
trying to make you as human as
possible. And then there was the
business about hiccuping...
DATA
Hiccuping?
JULIANA
He was determined that you'd have
periodic bouts of hiccups, but he
couldn't get it right -- they were
either too violent, or too
prolonged, or not noticeable at
all... I finally said, good
heavens, Noonian -- nobody likes
having hiccups. Why don't you
just forget it? So he did.
She smiles again, enjoying these reveries. But Data is
still interested in getting information.
DATA
So you wiped my memory processors
after this -- childhood.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT ONE 7.
3 CONTINUED: (2)
JULIANA
Then we deactivated you -- and
programmed you with the colonists'
logs. We were planning to reactivate
you.
(beat, more somber)
But we never had the chance. The
Crystalline Entity attacked... we
had to leave quickly. We wanted
to bring you with us -- but there
was only room for two in the
escape pod.
There is a beat as Data considers this.
DATA
Doctor, I have scanned the
colonists' journals... there is
only one Juliana mentioned in
them, and her last name is
O'Donnell.
JULIANA
That's me...
DATA
But there is no mention that my
father was married to you.
She shakes her head, again smiling at a recollection.
JULIANA
Because of my mother.
(off his look)
She thought Noonian was an
eccentric scientist who was too
old for me... we decided to get
married secretly and give her some
time to get used to the idea of
our being together.
She leans forward, conspiratorially.
JULIANA
(continuing)
We slipped away to Mavala Four and
got married there... a Klingon and
a Corvallan trader were our
witnesses...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT ONE 8.
3 CONTINUED: (3)
JULIANA (Cont'd)
(a bit wistful)
It wasn't exactly the wedding I'd
hoped for, but Noonian had a way
of making the oddest things seem
romantic...
DATA
My father did have an unusual way
of looking at things...
JULIANA
(surprised)
How would you know that?
DATA
I encountered him once -- in the
Terlina system.
JULIANA
(excited)
That's where we went -- after we
left the outpost... I had no idea
you'd ever met him.
DATA
It was shortly before his death.
There is a shocked pause.
JULIANA
He's... dead?
DATA
Yes.
Juliana seems to shrink into herself for a moment,
grappling with this unexpected news.
JULIANA
I didn't think it would hit me
this hard...
(beat, struggling for
control)
We didn't exactly part on the best
of terms...
DATA
What do you mean?
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT ONE 8A.
3 CONTINUED: (4)
JULIANA
I realized that he loved his work
as much as he loved me. Maybe
more. There we were, stuck on
that planet in the middle of a
jungle... no one else to talk to,
no -- no life. It just wasn't
enough...
(beat)
That's why I left.
This was clearly a difficult decision for her. After
a moment she looks up at him, reassuring, smiling her
lovely smile.
JULIANA
(continuing)
Anyway, it was a long time ago.
What's important is that we're
together now.
She touches his arm.
JULIANA
(continuing)
And I want to get to know you.
But Data hesitates. This has been a lot to assimilate
in one sitting, and he isn't sure how to respond.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT ONE 8B.
3 CONTINUED: (5)
DATA
This has been an interesting
encounter, and one altogether
unexpected. I would like to
corroborate what you have told me
before we proceed further.
Juliana stares at him... his lack of emotion is hard
for her to accept. She clearly hoped for a more
positive response.
DATA
Excuse me, Doctor.
Off her face as he EXITS...
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT ONE 9.
4 OMITTED
5 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it orbits Atrea.
6 INT. ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)
Geordi is working at the pool table, Data is working at
a separate monitor along the side wall.
GEORDI
I'm just about finished
reconfiguring the phaser banks.
We should be ready to start
drilling in about an hour.
Data doesn't look up from his console.
DATA
Inform me when you are ready.
Geordi moves closer to Data.
GEORDI
What are you doing there, anyway?
DATA
I am attempting to ascertain
whether Doctor Tainer's story is
true.
GEORDI
Don't you believe her?
DATA
I neither doubt nor believe her.
I am simply attempting to verify
her assertions.
Geordi smiles to himself at this android response.
GEORDI
Well, what have you turned up so
far?
DATA
The Registrar's Office on Mavala
Four cannot confirm that Doctor
Soong was married there.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT ONE 10.
6 CONTINUED:
DATA (Cont'd)
Apparently many documents were
lost when the government was
overthrown.
Geordi looks at Data's console, which is scrolling
RAPIDLY.
GEORDI
Then what are you looking at?
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT ONE 11.
6 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
I am checking passenger manifests
to see if they went to Mavala
during the period in question.
Suddenly Data reaches out and stops the scroll.
DATA
O'Donnell, Juliana...
(beat)
Soong, Noonian -- they were both
passengers on a transport that
travelled from Omicron Theta to
Mavala... and returned four days
later.
GEORDI
That sure seems to fit her story.
DATA
Still, the fact that they went to
Mavala does not prove they were
married there.
GEORDI
You know, Data... I almost get the
feeling you're trying to prove
that Doctor Tainer wasn't telling
the truth.
DATA
Not at all. I am merely unable to
reconcile her story with the fact
that my father never mentioned her
to me.
GEORDI
Well, she did leave him. Maybe
she broke his heart. Maybe he
just didn't want to talk about
her...
Data's brow furrows as he tries to comprehend this kind
of emotional response.
GEORDI
(continuing)
And let me ask you this... Doctor
Soong created an emotion chip for
you... didn't Lore tell you it
also contained memories --
memories Soong wanted you to have?
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT ONE 11A.
6 CONTINUED: (3)
DATA
Yes.
(beat)
It is possible that those are the
memories of my childhood. And of
my mother.
GEORDI
And if you think about it -- why
would she lie? Why would someone
pretend to be your mother?
Data considers for a beat.
DATA
I can think of no motive for such
a pretense.
Geordi assesses his friend's situation, tries to help
him understand it.
GEORDI
I can understand why you might be
a little disconcerted by all
this... it came out of the
blue... and the story doesn't fit
neatly into your logical
processors.
DATA
That is true...
GEORDI
But that's life, Data. Part of
being human is learning to handle
the unexpected... to risk new
experiences even when they don't
fit your preconceptions.
DATA
I will admit that it is difficult
for me to accept the possibility
of a past about which I know
nothing...
(beat)
But it is also true that I am very
curious to learn more about it.
Geordi grins at him. Off the new sense of possibility
in Data's face...
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT ONE 12.
7 INT. TEN FORWARD
Juliana works alone, entering information on a PADD.
VARIOUS SUPERNUMERARIES enjoy themselves, but Juliana
is intent on her work. She takes a bite from a plate
of food.
Data ENTERS and approaches her. She notices him and
looks up.
JULIANA
(a greeting)
Data...
DATA
I would like to get to know you.
(beat)
Mother.
She breaks into a smile when she hears this. Off this
moment we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT TWO 13.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
A8 INT. A CORRIDOR
as Data and Juliana make their way down it.
JULIANA
-- I wanted to make you female,
but your father insisted on a son.
We argued about it endlessly,
right up until we were ready to
assemble you.
DATA
(intrigued)
How did you decide?
She smiles as she remembers.
JULIANA
Well, Noonian walked in holding
your head in his hand and --
innocent as you please -- said it
was up to me. Of course he knew
perfectly well what he was
doing... once again, he'd made it
in his own image -- what was I to
say?
Data stops when they reach a DOOR. Juliana glances at
the nameplate on the door.
JULIANA
(continuing)
Deanna Troi... is this who you're
going to visit?
DATA
Yes.
She can't keep a small smile from coming to her lips.
JULIANA
Your father would be so pleased.
DATA
Pleased?
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT TWO 13A.
A8 CONTINUED:
JULIANA
He was worried the sexuality
programming he designed for you
wouldn't work...
She starts down the corridor.
DATA
(after her)
You misunderstand; Counselor Troi
is a therapist --
But she's already half-way down the corridor.
JULIANA
(breezy)
Good night...
Off her smile as she heads away...
B8 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS
as Troi takes a CUP OF TEA from the Replicator. She
crosses toward the couch with it and we see that Data
is sitting there. She takes a seat near him.
DATA
Doctor Tainer has provided me with
many details about my development
that I was not aware of.
Conversing with her was a
fascinating experience --
Troi detects a qualifying note in his voice.
TROI
But... ?
DATA
Her interest in me seems to be...
limitless.
Troi smiles knowingly.
TROI
She's your mother, Data. That's
how parents are.
DATA
I was a parent. I do not recall
exhibiting excessive interest in
Lal's behavior.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT TWO 13B.
B8 CONTINUED:
Troi fixes him with a look.
TROI
Data, you and Lal were practically
inseparable the entire time she
was alive.
DATA
Yes, but... she needed my help.
TROI
(smiles)
That's how every parent feels.
It's very hard to let your
children go out into the world and
fend for themselves. You can't
help but be protective of them.
I'm sure your mother feels the
same way.
Data seems curious about that.
DATA
If that is true... then why did
she never attempt to contact me?
Troi is struck by his question...
TROI
I don't know, Data. It could have
something to do with your parents'
separating... you were part of a
life she might have wanted to put
behind her.
She sees that the question seems to bother him.
TROI
But if you really want to know,
why don't you ask her?
Off Data's face as he absorbs this...
C8 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it orbits Atrea.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT TWO 13C.
8 INT. ENGINEERING -- GEORDI'S OFFICE (OPTICAL)
Data is seated at a console, working. Juliana stands
working at a nearby console.
DATA
We will be in position over the
drilling site in three minutes,
twenty-nine seconds.
She moves to look at the OKUDAGRAM displayed on his
console (a modified version of the one seen earlier),
and when she leans in she puts a hand to his shoulder --
now that he's accepted her she obviously feels
comfortable with him.
DATA
(continuing)
These scans indicate that the
magma pockets where we plan to set
up the infusion units are somewhat
unstable.
She acknowledges and sits near him.
JULIANA
I'm going to monitor the density
of the rock layers and adjust the
strength of the particle beam as
we go. That should minimize the
seismic stress we generate while
we're drilling.
Geordi approaches from another part of Engineering.
GEORDI
(to Data)
I've configured the phasers to
create the most highly focused
particle beam possible.
DATA
Thank you, Geordi.
Juliana smiles to herself, which catches Data's
attention.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT TWO 14.
8 CONTINUED:
JULIANA
(explaining)
I'm just glad to see that you have
good manners. It wasn't easy to
strike the right balance in your
programming.
Data is clearly interested in hearing more, so she
continues.
JULIANA
(continuing)
At first you couldn't have cared
less about social niceties like
"please" and "thank you"; you
were... downright rude, in fact.
GEORDI
Data? That's hard to picture --
JULIANA
(continuing)
But the first time we modified
your program we overcompensated;
it made you so obsequious your
Father couldn't stand to be in the
same room with you.
Geordi can't help but laugh; Data is clearly intrigued.
JULIANA
(continuing)
That was nothing compared to the
problems we had --
(stops herself)
Never mind. I don't want to
embarrass you.
DATA
I am incapable of embarrassment.
Please, continue.
Juliana shrugs a "if you say so."
JULIANA
One thing we didn't anticipate was
that you thought nothing of being
naked.
(smiles)
-- some of the colonists objected
to having an anatomically-correct
android running around without any
clothes on.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT TWO 15.
8 CONTINUED: (2)
Geordi and Juliana share a smile over the image she's
just conjured.
JULIANA
(continuing)
We asked you to dress, but you
felt it was unnecessary since you
didn't need protection from the
elements. We actually had to
write a modesty sub-routine to get
you to keep your clothes on.
Data steals a glance at his uniform -- he'll never
think about his garments the same way again.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Bridge to Engineering.
GEORDI
La Forge, here. Go ahead,
Commander.
INTERCUT:
8A INT. BRIDGE
RIKER is coordinating the drilling process. WORF is at
tactical; Pran hovers a bit fretfully, concerned that
it will all go well.
RIKER
We've established synchronous
orbit over the drilling site.
GEORDI
Phaser modifications are on-line,
sir.
DATA
My calculations indicate that the
first phaser blast will be
approximately nineteen seconds in
duration.
RIKER
Acknowledged.
Pran moves to Riker, concerned.
PRAN
(sotto)
Someone's checked his
calculations, of course.
RIKER
No, but I'm sure Data knows what
he's doing.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT TWO 16.
8A CONTINUED:
PRAN
Even so... he's a machine --
shouldn't someone... check up on
him?
Riker's a bit taken aback by this characterization of
Data, but replies evenly and politely.
RIKER
I have complete confidence in his
ability to "check up" on himself.
Pran smiles a politician's smile, then turns his
worried gaze back to the Viewscreen.
RIKER
(continuing)
Mister Worf... ?
WORF
Phasers are locked on target.
RIKER
Fire when ready.
Worf works his console -- we hear a DISTINCTIVE SOUND
that indicates the modified phasers are in use.
9 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as a PHASER BURST lances out from the ship and down
toward the planet.
10 RESUME ENGINEERING/BRIDGE INTERCUT (OPTICAL)
Data and Juliana watch the OKUDAGRAM -- a beam shoots
down from the silhouette of the Enterprise in orbit,
creating a well-like shaft in the planet's mass.
DATA
(off console)
The beam has penetrated eight
kilometers beneath the surface...
JULIANA
Once it's through the crust, we'll
boost phaser intensity by twelve
percent.
WORF
Standing by.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT TWO 17.
10 CONTINUED:
After a moment.
JULIANA
Now...
Worf works the console.
11 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
the beam changes in intensity.
12 RESUME ENGINEERING/BRIDGE INTERCUT
JULIANA
The mantle is less resistant than
I thought it would be --
DATA
We are within two kilometers of
the magma pocket.
JULIANA
Another five seconds should do it.
(beat; off console)
We've broken through --
WORF
(works)
Terminating beam.
Juliana studies the console for a moment, then allows
herself a small smile.
JULIANA
The pocket seems stable...
DATA
I detect no increase in stress
levels in the surrounding magma.
RIKER
Good work. I don't think we could
have gotten in any cleaner.
Pran's face shows his relief.
END INTERCUT.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT TWO 18.
13 INT. ENGINEERING
DATA
The drilling process has raised
the temperature inside the magma
pocket by almost three hundred
degrees C. It will be several
hours before it cools enough for
us to enter.
JULIANA
Data, do you have any plans right
now?
DATA
I do not.
JULIANA
Maybe we could spend some time
together? I'd love to see your
quarters...
Data nods that he'd like that.
14 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
Data is playing a VIOLIN solo for Juliana, who listens,
rapt. After a few moments, Data finishes. She
applauds, clearly impressed with his playing.
DATA
Thank you. I have been practicing
for a recital tomorrow evening.
JULIANA
That was beautiful.
DATA
I have been told that my playing
is technically flawless, but it
has never been described as
beautiful.
JULIANA
Well it was... really.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT TWO 19.
14 CONTINUED:
DATA
Are you certain that you are not
saying that because you are my
Mother?
(off her reaction)
I have observed that parents tend
to exaggerate when it comes to
their children's accomplishments.
Juliana smiles at his observation.
JULIANA
I suppose there is a certain
amount of vanity involved...
considering that giving you a
creative capacity was my idea.
She sees that Data doesn't know what she means.
JULIANA
(continuing)
Your Father didn't really see the
point... he thought that since you
didn't have emotions, you would
have no need to express yourself.
(a pensive beat)
Somehow... I had the feeling the
opposite would be true.
Data is struck by what she's told him.
DATA
I do not know for certain... but
I believe that it is during my
creative endeavors that I come
closest to experiencing what it
might be like to be human.
Juliana smiles when she hears this.
JULIANA
Well... I'm glad I insisted.
DATA
As am I.
A moment between them -- then Data starts to put his
violin away. Juliana moves to a nearby table, where
she starts looking at Data's things, as if trying to
get some sense of who he is from them.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT TWO 20.
14 CONTINUED: (2)
JULIANA
You know, Data... I'm very
familiar with that Handel piece.
How would you feel about my
playing the viola part tomorrow?
DATA
I would like that very much.
JULIANA
We should practice -- do you
happen to have a viola?
DATA
I can replicate one for you.
Data heads to a corner; Juliana moves toward a stack of
PAINTINGS that lean against the wall.
JULIANA
Did you paint these?
DATA
Yes.
We hear the SOUND of the replicator, and Data crosses
with a viola toward Juliana, who is looking at the
first painting in the stack, a Picasso-esque rendering
of Spot.
DATA
I am attempting to master all
known styles of painting.
He pulls a painting of a pastoral scene from the stack.
DATA
(continuing)
This one is in the style of the
early French impressionists...
JULIANA
(pleased)
It's very good.
She flips on to the next painting -- a PORTRAIT OF LAL.
JULIANA
Who's this?
DATA
That is Lal, my daughter.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT TWO 21.
14 CONTINUED: (3)
Juliana turns and looks at him -- surprised.
JULIANA
Your daughter... ?
DATA
Yes. I created her... using
myself as a model.
JULIANA
Where is she now?
DATA
The positronic matrix I designed
for her was unstable. She only
lived a short time.
Juliana takes this in.
JULIANA
I see...
DATA
In a sense, you were her
grandmother...
Juliana doesn't answer, just stares down at the
painting thoughtfully. Data holds the viola out for
her.
DATA
(continuing)
Would you like to practice now?
She nods vaguely, still looking down at the painting of
Lal...
15 INT. TEN FORWARD -- AFTER HOURS
Data and Juliana are practicing near the windows.
DATA
The acoustics in Ten Forward are
quite favorable.
JULIANA
Yes... very nice...
Something seems to be weighing on her mind.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT TWO 22.
15 CONTINUED:
JULIANA
(continuing)
Data... can I ask you something?
DATA
Of course.
JULIANA
Do you think you'll ever try to
create an android again?
DATA
Perhaps. I created Lal because I
wished to procreate. Despite what
happened to her, I still have that
wish.
JULIANA
But... how do you know the same
thing won't happen? Creating a
stable positronic matrix is very
tricky -- your Father lost several
prototypes before Lore.
Data reacts to this information.
DATA
I was not aware that he created
any androids before my brother.
JULIANA
There were three of them... they
were like children to us... losing
them was very painful. When
Noonian decided to try again, I
was very much against it. I
didn't think we had the right to
bring a life into the world that
had so little chance of surviving.
These are clearly painful memories for her. After a
moment:
JULIANA
(continuing)
But your Father was sure he'd
figured out what went wrong,
insisted he could make a stable
matrix. And he did.
(beat)
But Lore was cruel... evil.
Eventually, we had no choice... we
had to dismantle him.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT TWO 23.
15 CONTINUED: (2)
This is clearly an awful memory.
JULIANA
Your father decided to build yet
another android, one who didn't
have emotions -- I couldn't
believe he was going to try again.
After everything that'd
happened...
Data reacts to what she's said.
DATA
Mother... I am that android. Are
you saying that you were against
my creation?
She realizes that she's inadvertently said just that.
JULIANA
Initially I was. But I was wrong;
I know that now.
She is afraid she's "hurt" him. She takes his hand,
hoping to reassure him.
JULIANA
(continuing)
I've followed your progress for
years -- I'm very proud of what
you've accomplished.
DATA
Then... why did you never attempt
to contact me?
She looks at him for a moment, as if weighing something
in her mind.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT TWO 24.
15 CONTINUED: (3)
JULIANA
Because... I was ashamed... of
something I'd done...
DATA
What?
She lets out a breath, decides to continue.
JULIANA
I never wanted you to know this...
I've felt guilty about it for
years...
She looks up at him with a small, empty laugh.
JULIANA
That's something you don't have to
worry about, do you? Guilt --
eating away at you...
DATA
Perhaps if you told me what has
made you feel that way, your guilt
might be alleviated.
She takes a breath, steels herself.
JULIANA
I lied when I said there wasn't
room for you in the escape pod
that we took from Omicron... there
was...
Tears wet her eyes; she takes a breath before
continuing.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT TWO 25.
15 CONTINUED: (4)
JULIANA
(continuing)
I didn't want to bring you with
us... I was afraid that if we reactivated
you, you'd turn out like
Lore.
She can't look at him as she makes this admission. Her
voice is full of regret.
JULIANA
(continuing)
I made Noonian leave you behind...
Her secret is finally out -- overcome with emotion, and
unsure how Data will react, she stands and EXITS. Off
Data's face as he watches her go...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT THREE 26.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
16 INT. ENGINEERING
Data and Juliana are in the process of drilling the
second shaft; Geordi works nearby -- the DISTINCTIVE
SOUND that indicates the modified phasers are in use
can be heard.
Juliana keeps her focus on the console in front of her,
avoiding eye contact with Data -- she's clearly
uncomfortable in his presence now.
DATA
(off console)
We are within four kilometers of
the magma pocket...
Juliana seems lost in thought, doesn't react to Data's
report.
DATA
(continuing)
Doctor, should we lower the beam
intensity?
She comes back, focuses.
JULIANA
Yes -- yes, by sixteen percent...
INTERCUT:
17 INT. BRIDGE
Riker, Worf and Pran as before.
WORF
Acknowledged.
JULIANA
Another twelve seconds should do
it...
18 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as a phaser beam lances down toward the planet.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT THREE 27.
19 RESUME ENGINEERING/BRIDGE INTERCUT
Suddenly the ship starts to SHUDDER.
GEORDI
(off console)
We're getting feedback pulses
along the particle beam --
JULIANA
We must have hit a pocket of
magnesite ore -- I'll try to
adjust the phaser harmonics to
compensate.
She starts working. The SHUDDER intensifies.
RIKER
We're going to have to terminate
the beam if this keeps up --
DATA
If we do, we will have to begin a
new shaft at another suitable
location --
JULIANA
(as she works)
There is no other suitable
location -- give me a few more
seconds --
The SHUDDER becomes more severe.
GEORDI
Doctor, it's going to take longer
than that to match the resonant --
Suddenly the SHUDDER STOPS.
GEORDI
You did it --
She's all business, keeps working the console.
JULIANA
It was just luck... I hit the
right frequency...
Geordi smiles, glad she pulled it off -- but Data
regards her with a look that's hard to read.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT THREE 28.
19 CONTINUED:
JULIANA
(continuing, off
console)
All right, we're less than two
kilometers from the target site --
(beat)
Stand by to terminate the beam...
After a beat.
GEORDI
(off console)
We've broken through --
JULIANA
Now --
Worf works the console and we hear the SOUND of the
phasers being cut off.
DATA
(off console)
I am detecting no signs of
instability...
PRAN
(pleased)
Excellent.
(to Riker)
Commander, may I suggest we set up
the infusion unit in the first
magma pocket while we give this
one a chance to cool.
Riker acknowledges.
RIKER
(to com)
Data, Doctor Tainer -- we'll meet
you in Transporter Room Two.
Riker and Pran head for the Turbolift.
DATA
Acknowledged.
Data stands and gestures the direction they should go.
He tries not to show it but something is clearly on his
mind.
20 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it orbits Atrea.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT THREE 29.
21 INT. THE FIRST MAGMA POCKET
Data and Juliana are calibrating one of the INFUSION
UNITS -- the device is about the size of a two-drawer
filing cabinet, has control panels on several faces,
and should have some sort of receiving node on top that
looks like it could absorb a phaser blast.
The only light comes from PRACTICAL SOURCES our people
have set up previously. The shaft they drilled from
the surface is suggested by a HOLE about seven feet in
diameter in the pocket's ceiling.
Pran is near the cave wall, scanning it with a
TRICORDER. They work in silence for a few moments --
the only SOUND is a low-level rumbling, the molten core
not far beneath their feet. It's hot in here -- Pran
and Juliana begin to perspire.
DATA
I have initialized the plasma
induction coils.
JULIANA
(as she works)
I'll need another minute to align
the diverter...
Data watches her as she works... his expression
gradually becomes more intent than just a casual
glance.
22 ON JULIANA'S FACE
she appears to be concentrating on her work -- nothing
seems out of the ordinary.
23 ON DATA'S FACE
looking at her intently -- his expression is hard to
read. Has her revelation to him changed how he views
her?
24 CLOSE ON JULIANA'S EYES
as she looks down at the panel she's working on. (Her
eyes should blink at least once.)
25 RESUME SCENE
as Data continues to watch her face -- the moment is
broken when Pran approaches.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT THREE 30.
25 CONTINUED:
PRAN
There are signs of stress in the
surrounding magma, but the site
should remain stable until we
finish the plasma infusion.
JULIANA
(as she works)
Good, we're almost done here.
Pran smiles vaguely at Data. There is an awkward
moment of silence. Pran glances at his wife, then
decides to go ahead.
PRAN
Data, Juliana told me what she
said to you last night. She's
been very upset...
Juliana looks up at her husband, unsure if she wants
him to bring this up right now.
PRAN
(continuing)
I don't blame you for being angry
with her, but --
DATA
I am incapable of anger.
PRAN
There seems to be some... tension
between you...
Juliana interrupts, gestures that she'll speak for
herself.
JULIANA
It's all right, Pran.
(to Data)
I know what I told you must have
been hard for you to hear, but I
hope you can understand my
reasons.
DATA
I am not certain that I do.
Perhaps you could clarify them for
me?
This is awkward for her, but she knows she owes him
answers.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT THREE 31.
25 CONTINUED: (2)
JULIANA
I'll try. What do you want to
know?
DATA
If I had been your biological
offspring, would you have left me
behind on Omicron Theta?
Juliana weighs her answer for a long moment before
replying.
JULIANA
Oh, Data... how can I answer that?
DATA
Doctor Tainer, I have the
impression that you are trying to
spare my feelings. I assure you,
that is not necessary.
JULIANA
I just don't want you to
misunderstand my answer.
(beat; with difficulty)
No, I wouldn't have left you
behind if you'd been my biological
child.
DATA
Is that because you place more
value on biological life than on
artificial life?
She seems genuinely pained that he would think that.
JULIANA
Absolutely not. I cherished every
android your father and I created
as if it were my own child. Even
Lore.
(beat)
Despite the fact that he'd turned
on us, despite everything he'd
done... dismantling him was the
most difficult thing I've ever had
to do in my life. I was afraid
that if you turned out like him...
I'd have to dismantle you, too...
and I couldn't bear that.
Data takes this in.
JULIANA
(continuing)
I'm not trying to justify leaving
you behind... but I am sorry I
did. I hope you can believe that.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT THREE 31A.
25 CONTINUED: (3)
DATA
I do. Thank you for making it
clear to me.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT THREE 32.
25 CONTINUED: (5)
A wave of relief washes over her. Pran smiles, and
puts a grateful hand to Data's shoulder. Off this
moment of reconciliation...
26 INT. TEN FORWARD
which has been converted into a recital hall. Picard,
BEVERLY, TROI, Riker, Geordi and Pran are seated amid
some SUPERNUMERARIES, enjoying the concert.
27 ON DATA AND JULIANA
as they near the end of their violin duet, the same
piece they practiced earlier.
As he plays, Data watches her, and we see that he
detects something he finds curious.
28 ON JULIANA
playing intently, carefully -- a flawless performance.
29 TIGHTER ON DATA
we can see from his expression that there's something
about her playing that's got his attention.
30 ON AUDIENCE
enjoying the concert -- unaware, as are we, of what
Data has taken notice of.
31 ON DATA AND JULIANA
as they finish the piece. When the concert ends,
everybody stands and applauds. Data and Juliana stand
to take their bows -- and she beams happily at him,
unaware that something is weighing on his mind.
When the applause dies down Data and Juliana step
forward to mingle with the others.
Picard and Beverly approach Juliana; Data moves off
toward Troi. He seems preoccupied.
TROI
Data, I don't think I've ever
heard you play more...
(searches)
... expressively.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT THREE 32A.
31 CONTINUED:
They move out of frame as Picard and Beverly address
Juliana.
PICARD
That was wonderful, Doctor.
JULIANA
I enjoyed playing -- it's been a
while.
BEVERLY
(smiles)
I see where Data gets his musical
talents.
JULIANA
(lightly)
I realize you're speaking
metaphorically, of course, but
thank you just the same.
31A ON DATA
as Troi moves off. Data starts toward the door, as
though on a mission, but Pran intercepts him.
PRAN
(smiles)
Well... that was quite a
performance.
DATA
Thank you.
Pran grows serious; it is clear he has something he
wants to say to Data.
PRAN
You know, Data... when I found out
you were coming, I didn't know
what to expect. I've never met an
artificial life form before.
Pran smiles at him... a man struggling to say the right
thing, though he's clearly uncomfortable about it.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT THREE 32B.
31A CONTINUED:
PRAN
But after meeting you, I feel a
lot better. You... you're much
different from how I imagined you.
(beat)
And I welcome you to our family.
While Data appreciates Pran's gesture, it is clear that
he has something else on his mind.
DATA
Would you excuse me? There is
something I must do.
He moves off -- leaving Pran a little puzzled by his
abrupt departure...
32 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it orbits Atrea.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/30/93 - ACT THREE 33.
33 INT. SICKBAY
Data and Beverly ENTER.
BEVERLY
Data... why do you need Doctor
Tainer's medical records? Is
something wrong with her?
DATA
I am not certain. Perhaps you
could determine that from her
Transporter trace pattern.
BEVERLY
I probably could... but I don't
ordinarily look into someone's
medical status unless I have a
good reason.
DATA
Doctor... I would ask that you not
require me to be more specific.
But I assure you that I have a
good reason for asking.
Beverly regards him for a moment.
BEVERLY
All right, Data...
She moves to the large Medical Diagnostic Screen on the
wall, works some controls. Our standard anatomical
display pops up.
BEVERLY
(continuing, studying
it)
Well... at first glance I don't
see anything wrong -- except for
some mild hypertension, which is
perfectly normal for a woman her
age.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT THREE 33A.
33 CONTINUED:
DATA
I see.
BEVERLY
Maybe you should tell me what her
symptoms are.
DATA
(eyeing the readout)
She has not complained of any
discomfort.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT THREE 34.
33 CONTINUED: (2)
BEVERLY
Then... why did you want to look
at her medical records?
DATA
Because... I have reason to
believe she is not who she claims
to be...
Beverly reacts, but before she can ask why they're
interrupted by Data's communicator.
RIKER (V.O.)
Bridge to Data...
DATA
(hits combadge)
Go ahead, Commander...
RIKER (V.O.)
There's been a cave-in in one of
the magma pockets. You're needed
in Transporter room two.
DATA
On my way.
(to Beverly)
Excuse me, Doctor.
Data EXITS, leaving Beverly to wonder what he might
have meant. Off her face we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT FOUR 35.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
34 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
Data and Juliana ENTER and join Geordi, who has just
beamed Pran and an N.D. Atrean out of the magma pocket
where the cave-in occurred -- their uniforms and faces
are dusty. As they move off the transporter pad, Pran
walks with a limp, as if nursing a hurt leg. Juliana
moves to help him.
JULIANA
What happened?
PRAN
We were running a final check on
the infusion unit when part of the
wall gave way...
GEORDI
(off console)
It looks like the area has
stabilized, but seismic stress is
building up -- eventually, the
pocket will collapse.
INTERCUT:
35 INT. BRIDGE
where Riker is monitoring the conversation.
RIKER
How long, Geordi?
GEORDI
It's hard to say... twelve hours
at most.
JULIANA
Then we have to finish configuring
the unit and inject the plasma
immediately.
RIKER
I'd rather not send anyone back
down there.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT FOUR 36.
35 CONTINUED:
JULIANA
If we don't do it now, Commander,
it could take months to find
another suitable site. The core
may have solidified by then.
PRAN
She's right, we have to act now.
Riker considers.
RIKER
All right. But I want you in and
out of there as quickly as
possible.
DATA
Acknowledged, Commander.
JULIANA
(to Pran)
You're hurt. I'll go.
Pran touches her arm with concern. She and Data move
to the Transporter Pad. Geordi is studying the
monitor.
GEORDI
(to Data)
One of the transporter's pattern
enhancers was thrown out of
alignment by the seismic activity --
I'm getting a normal power
signature from it so you should be
able to re-align it for the beam
out.
Data acknowledges.
DATA
Energize.
36 INT. THE SECOND MAGMA POCKET (OPTICAL)
as Data and Juliana MATERIALIZE near the THREE PATTERN
ENHANCERS, one of which is tipped over. Data rights
it.
As before, the only light comes from their PALM BEACONS
and from practical sources our people have set up
previously. The low-level RUMBLE of molten magma can
be HEARD in the distance.
Suddenly, there's a TREMOR -- and when it subsides, a
sharply defined ledge of about two feet separates the
floor they're standing on from the rest of the cavern --
much like an earthquake fault-line.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT FOUR 36A.
36 CONTINUED:
Data scans it with his TRICORDER.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT FOUR 37.
36 CONTINUED:
DATA
There will be more seismic
activity. We must hurry.
Data steps up on the ledge, and Juliana follows. They
move off...
37 A NARROW PASSAGEWAY
as they move through it and pass out of frame.
38 THE FIRST MAGMA POCKET
as they approach the INFUSION UNIT. Rubble strews the
area, and it seems that the unit may have been damaged
by falling rocks. Concerned, Juliana starts working
one of the consoles. Already, the heat has caused her
to break into a sweat.
Data looks up toward the ceiling, raises his Tricorder
to scan.
39 THE SHAFT -- MATTE (OPTICAL)
as he looks up into the shaft that we drilled from
orbit -- it's cylindrical and smooth-walled, and
although it's too dark to see much of it, we get the
sense that it leads up through miles of rock.
40 RESUME SCENE
as Data studies his tricorder.
DATA
The shaft has not been obstructed
by the seismic activity -- it
should be possible to trigger the
unit from orbit.
JULIANA
(as she works)
The infuser's been damaged...
we're going to have to start the
programming sequence all over
again...
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT FOUR 38.
40 CONTINUED:
She continues working, and Data joins her at one of the
unit's side consoles. We hear the SOUND of rock
GROANING under pressure -- Data and Juliana glance up,
then continue working.
DATA
(works)
Priming the energy transfer
matrix...
JULIANA
(works)
Re-intializing the particle stream
buffer...
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Riker to Data.
DATA
(hits combadge)
Data, here. Go ahead, Commander.
INTERCUT:
41 INT. BRIDGE
RIKER
We're reading an increase in
seismic stress levels.
DATA
Understood. We will attempt to
expedite our work.
Data and Juliana fall silent for a moment as they work.
JULIANA
(works)
There... now we just have to align
the diverter and --
Suddenly a VIOLENT TREMOR wracks the magma pocket;
rocks and other debris fall from the ceiling and walls --
Data and Juliana have to hold on to the infusion unit
to keep from falling.
RIKER
Data! Are you all right?
Data doesn't answer until the tremor subsides.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT FOUR 39.
41 CONTINUED:
DATA
Yes, Commander. We will be
returning to the beam-out point
shortly.
Juliana finishes working -- dust kicked up by the
tremor fills the air around them...
JULIANA
That's it -- let's go.
They move off...
42 THE NARROW PASSAGEWAY
as they head back the way the came. A small AFTERSHOCK
causes dust and debris to fall from above. They hurry
on.
43 THE SECOND MAGMA POCKET
as they approach the ledge that drops down to the beamout
point. They react to something --
44 WIDEN
so that we see that the cavern floor where the pattern
enhancers were dropped another thirty feet during the
last tremor. Juliana and Data are standing on the edge
of a precipice, there's no way to climb down its sheer
face, and the pattern enhancers are strewn on the floor
below.
JULIANA
Can we transport without the
pattern enhancers?
DATA
No, we are too far below the
surface.
JULIANA
(concerned)
How are we going to get down
there?
Data looks around.
DATA
There are no hand-holds in the
rock face.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT FOUR 40.
44 CONTINUED:
Suddenly another VIOLENT TREMOR hits -- the ceiling
starts to give around them. Data has to shout to be
heard over the din.
DATA
(continuing)
We will have to jump.
Juliana can't believe what she's hearing.
JULIANA
It's too far... I won't make it...
Large ROCKS crash down near them -- close, getting
closer...
DATA
You will --
Data takes her firmly by the left arm and leaps off the
edge of the cliff --
45 ANOTHER ANGLE
as they land on the floor below. Data is able to
absorb the shock, but Juliana hits the ground hard and
is thrown to the floor.
Data moves to her and discovers that she's been knocked
unconscious. To our astonishment, her arm has been
torn off to reveal a mass of WIRES and BLINKING
CIRCUITRY -- Juliana Soong is an android.
Data stares down at her arm (a small amount of blood is
visible where the skin is torn) -- strangely, he does
not seem unduly surprised by what he sees.
Off this moment we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT FIVE 41.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
46 INT. SICKBAY
Beverly and Geordi are examining the still-unconscious
Juliana, who is laid-out on the center bio-bed in a
hospital gown. Riker and Data stand nearby.
Juliana's arm has been repaired, and a PANEL on her
head is open to reveal a mass of BLINKING CIRCUITRY.
As Geordi reports to Riker, we get a sense that he's
awed by the complexity of her design.
GEORDI
Basically, she's a Soong-type
android -- except everything about
her is designed to fool you into
thinking she's human.
BEVERLY
She's got tear ducts, sweat glands --
even veins and capillaries
underneath her skin.
Riker indicates the Medical Diagnostic panel.
RIKER
Why does the scanner read her as
a human?
BEVERLY
There's a feedback processor
that's designed to send out a
false bio-signal.
GEORDI
It's tied in with her aging
program -- she not only ages in
appearance, like Data, her vital
signs change too.
BEVERLY
What I can't figure out is why she
lost consciousness. As far as I
can see, everything's fine -- she
should be awake.
DATA
Check her positronic matrix --
there may be a cascade anomaly.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT FIVE 42.
46 CONTINUED:
Geordi and Beverly acknowledge and set to work. Riker
turns to Data.
RIKER
Data -- you said you knew she was
an android... how?
DATA
The first indication occurred when
we were drilling. I saw her
perform several complex
calculations without the
assistance of the computer.
RIKER
That could just have meant she was
good at math --
DATA
That is true. But it was enough
to draw my attention. Later, I
noticed something odd about the
way she blinked her eyes.
Riker has no idea what could be coming next.
DATA
(continuing)
The intervals between blinks were
governed by a Fourier Series --
the same mathematical formula my
father used to give my blinking
pattern the appearance of
randomness.
RIKER
I can't imagine anyone but you
noticing something like that.
DATA
Then there was our concert in Ten
Forward.
RIKER
What about it?
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT FIVE 43.
46 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
(continuing)
We had practiced the piece, and I
noticed that she played it the
same way during the performance --
every pitch, every intonation, was
exactly the same. Only an
artificial life-form could have
done that.
Riker acknowledges that he understands.
RIKER
Does her husband have any idea?
DATA
I do not believe so. He is on the
surface, to monitor the plasma
infusion.
RIKER
That's probably just as well...
Geordi and Beverly find something.
GEORDI
Data, take a look at this.
Data crosses over and Geordi uses the point of a TOOL
to show him something inside her head panel.
47 INSERT - A SMALL CHIP
amidst the blinking circuitry.
DATA (O.S.)
It appears to be an information
module...
48 RESUME SCENE
DATA
(continuing)
With a holographic interface.
Data and Geordi exchange a glance -- what could this
chip be for?
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/27/93 - ACT FIVE 44.
49 OMITTED
50 INT. HOLODECK
Data is standing in the ARCH. No program is running so
the GRID LINES are visible. He has a PANEL OPEN, and
holds an OPTICAL CHIP in his hand.
51 INSERT - THE OPTICAL CHIP
we can see that the chip from Juliana's head has been
mounted on it.
52 RESUME SCENE (OPTICAL)
as Data slides the optical chip into a slot. The
machine HUMS to life, and after a beat, a hologram of
DOCTOR NOONIAN SOONG APPEARS on the grid. He's about
sixty, and conducts himself with curmudgeonly self-assurance.
SOONG
Whoever you are, if you're
watching this, you must have found
out about Juliana.
DATA
That is correct.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT FIVE 45.
52 CONTINUED:
SOONG
I programmed this hologram to
answer any questions you might
have -- I'm Noonian Soong; I
created her.
DATA
I am Data.
Soong reacts, breaks into a broad smile.
SOONG
Data -- I hoped somehow it might
be you... I even created a
response program to answer your
questions. How are you, boy?
DATA
I am fine.
SOONG
I'm glad you got the chance to
meet your mother.
DATA
You refer to Doctor Tainer as my
mother -- yet the complexity of
her design indicates she was
created after I was.
SOONG
You're right, but there was a real
Juliana O'Donnell. She was my
wife; she helped me create you.
DATA
What happened to her?
Soong's demeanor quiets as he recounts the story.
SOONG
She was injured when the
Crystalline Entity attacked... we
made it to Terlina Three, but then
she lapsed into a comatose
state...
It's obvious that Soong felt deeply when he recorded
this.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT FIVE 46.
52 CONTINUED: (2)
SOONG
(continuing)
When I realized nothing could be
done for her, I built an android
and started trying to perfect my
synaptic scanning technique -- so
I could transfer her memories into
a positronic matrix. I didn't
know if it would work, but I had
to try. I couldn't stand the
thought of losing the only woman
I ever loved.
A pause as he remembers.
SOONG
(continuing)
A few days after Juliana died...
I activated the android. She
looked up at me... and she smiled.
He smiles as he remembers the moment.
SOONG
(continuing)
She recognized me. It had worked!
Here was a life not two minutes
old, and as far as she knew I was
her husband and she'd just
recovered from a terrible injury.
It was incredible.
DATA
And you never told her the truth?
SOONG
Why? There was no reason for her
to know. I wanted her to be
happy. I wanted us to be happy.
(beat)
And we were... for a while,
anyway...
His face falters.
DATA
What happened?
SOONG
(nods)
I made a terrible mistake... I
never really let her know how much
I loved her...
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/29/93 - ACT FIVE 47.
52 CONTINUED: (3)
His voice is full of regret.
SOONG
(continuing)
She left me... The real Juliana
probably would've, too, if she'd
lived.
He seems lost in thought for a moment.
DATA
If she recovers and learns that
she is an android --
SOONG
(interrupting)
She doesn't have to know. I
designed her to shut down in the
event the truth was discovered.
When you re-insert the chip,
she'll wake up and remember
nothing. All you have to do is
make up some excuse about what
happened to her.
DATA
Then... you do not believe she
should know the truth.
SOONG
The truth is that in every way
that matters, she is Juliana
Soong.
Soong is certain of everything he's saying, and clearly
wants to convince Data.
SOONG
(continuing)
I've programmed her to terminate
after a long life. Let her live
out the rest of her days, and die
believing she was human. Don't
rob her of that, son. Please.
Data takes this in. Off his troubled expression...
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT FIVE 48.
53 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Troi, Beverly and Data are discussing the
situation.
DATA
It seems that I must make a
decision: to tell Doctor Tainer
that she is an android -- or
withhold that knowledge from her.
And I do not know what to do.
BEVERLY
Why was Doctor Soong so adamant
that she not be told?
DATA
He seemed certain that if she
knew, it would preclude the
possibility of her being happy.
PICARD
And -- what do you think?
DATA
I am not certain.
(beat)
I can understand why my father
felt as he did -- but his wishes
are not necessarily paramount. I
am concerned with what would be
best for -- my mother.
BEVERLY
Wouldn't she be better off knowing
the truth? Dealing with the
reality of her existence?
TROI
I don't think so. She's believed
she's human all her life. The
truth might be devastating to her.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT FIVE 49.
53 CONTINUED:
DATA
I have noticed that her present
husband seems uncomfortable with
the fact that I am an artificial
life-form. If he finds out about
his wife, it may adversely affect
their relationship.
BEVERLY
He doesn't have to know -- if you
tell her, it would be up to her
whether or not to tell him.
PICARD
Data, there might come a time in
the future when she would find out
anyway -- another accident, for
example. Perhaps it would be
easier for her to learn the truth
from you.
BEVERLY
I can tell you that if I were in
her place... I'd rather have my
son tell me than some stranger...
Data wrestles with this weighty decision. His friends
have tried to help him, but there is no clear road.
DATA
I find that I am having difficulty
separating what would be best for
her... from what would be best for
me.
TROI
What do you mean?
DATA
If she knew she were an android,
she and I would have something to
share. I would no longer be alone
in the universe.
The others take this in, touched by Data's plight.
TROI
I know how much that would mean to
you... but at the same time,
telling her would rob her of the
one thing you've wanted all your
life -- to be human.
This cuts to the core of Data's dilemma.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT FIVE 49A.
53 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
It's a difficult choice.
(beat)
You must do what you think best,
Data. We will support any
decision you make.
Off Data's face as he ponders his dilemma...
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - 09/27/93 - ACT FIVE 50.
54 INT. SICKBAY
CLOSE on Juliana's open head panel -- a hand is reinserting
the chip.
55 WIDEN
to reveal Data standing over her at the bio-bed. No
one else is in Sickbay. He finishes and closes the
panel. A few moments later, Juliana's eyes flutter
open.
JULIANA
(a bit groggy)
Data... what happened? The last
thing I remember is jumping off
that cliff...
Data looks down at her for a long moment -- what will
he tell her?
DATA
You were knocked unconscious by
the fall... you broke a bone in
your arm, but Doctor Crusher
repaired it.
He takes her hand.
DATA
(continuing)
Everything is fine, Mother.
She looks up at him and smiles... Data has decided not
to tell. Off this moment...
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT FIVE 51.
56 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it orbits Atrea.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, supplemental. The
infusion of plasma into the core
of Atrea Four has been
accomplished. Pran Tainer's
projections indicate that the core
will remain molten for several
hundred years.
57 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Data is saying goodbye to his mother. An N.D. stands
at the Transporter controls.
JULIANA
When will I see you again?
DATA
Perhaps I can visit Atrea on my
next leave.
JULIANA
I'd like that very much.
She smiles, looks at him for what may be the last time
in a long while.
JULIANA
(continuing)
Well... I'd better be going...
DATA
Mother... I remembered something
that I thought you should know.
She waits for him to continue.
DATA
(continuing)
Before he died, my father told me
that he had only one great love in
his life... and that he regretted
never letting her know how much he
cared for her.
(beat)
I am certain he was referring to
you.
Juliana is touched by this knowledge.
STAR TREK: "Inheritance" - REV. 09/28/93 - ACT FIVE 52.
57 CONTINUED:
JULIANA
That's nice to know...
She smiles inwardly, as if something's just occurred to
her.
JULIANA
(continuing)
On Atrea they have a saying...
that a child born from parents who
love each other will have nothing
but goodness in his heart...
(beat)
I guess that explains you...
Data is struck by her words. She leans forward and
kisses his cheek.
JULIANA
(continuing)
Take care of yourself, son.
She moves to the Transporter Pad, turns back -- and
their eyes meet for a last time.
DATA
Good-bye, Mother.
The N.D. works the controls and Juliana DEMATERIALIZES.
Off Data's face as he watches...
58 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it moves away we:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END