startrek-ml/Data/Tng/143.txt

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                       "Samaritan Snare" 
                          #40272-143 
                              
                          Written by 
                     Robert L. McCullough 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Les Landau 


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 1989 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.

                     3RD REVISED FINAL DRAFT
 
                        MARCH 8, 1989
 

         STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/7/89 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                       "Samaritan Snare" 

                             CAST                               
                              
              PICARD                   GREBNEDLOG
              RIKER                    REGINOD
              DATA                     
              PULASKI                  SURGEON
              TROI                     BIOMOLECULAR
                                        PHYSIOLOGIST
              GEORDI                   
              WORF                     
              WESLEY                   
                                       Non-Speaking
              SONYA                      SEVERAL PAKLEDS
              TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.)   NURSES
                                         MEDICAL TEAM
              Non-Speaking               ANESTHESIOLOGIST
                N.D. CREWMEMBERS         ORDERLIES

         STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/7/89 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                       "Samaritan Snare" 
                         
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              SICKBAY/PULASKI'S OFFICE SHUTTLE TWO
              SHUTTLE BAY TWO
              CORRIDOR                 MONDOR
              TRANSPORTER ROOM
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE       STARBASE 515
              MAIN ENGINEERING           MEDICAL COMPLEX
          
            MONDOR
              BRIDGE
              WEAPONS BAY
          
            SHUTTLE TWO
          
            STARBASE SCYLLA 515
              SURGICAL SUITE

STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare - 3/7/89 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE       

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                       "Samaritan Snare"            
                
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE                       

        RHOMBOID DRONEGAR SECTOR     Romboyd DRAWN-i-gar
        PAKLED                       PACK-led
        GREBNEDLOG                   Greb-NED-log
        REGINOD                      REGG-in-odd
        BONESTELL                    BONE-stel
        NAUSICAAN                    NAW-sik-can
        THORACIC POLYCHROMATICS      thu-RAS-ik
                                       poly-kro-MAT-iks

        HETEROCYCLIC DECLINATION     het-ah-row-SYK-lik
                                       dek-lah-NAY-shun

        MYOCARDIAL ENZYME            my-ah-CARD-ee-el
                                       EN-zime

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                      "Samaritan Snare"                            
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Cruises at warp speed as we hear:

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, Stardate 42723.8.
			The Enterprise is en route to the
			Epsilon Nine Sector for
			astronomical survey of a new
			pulsar cluster. In the meantime,
			Ensign Crusher will be diverting
			to Starbase five one five for
			progressive Starfleet exams...

2    INT. MAIN BRIDGE - THE TURBOLIFT DOORS

	open and WESLEY enters the bridge, where RIKER, DATA,
	and WORF are at their usual stations, supernumeraries
	filling in as needed. Wesley steps up to Riker, who
	hands him a Starfleet communications rectangle.

					RIKER
			This just came in from Starfleet--

					WESLEY
				(taking the disk)
			The testing parameters?

	Data steps up to them:

					DATA
			Do not be apprehensive. I found
			the Academy examinations quite
			elementary.

					WESLEY
			You would.

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER       2.

2    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Your earlier test results were
			good enough to get you Academy
			credit for your work here. I
			don't think you have anything to
			worry about.

					WESLEY
			But those Academy cadets are
			pretty competitive, you know.

					RIKER
			They don't have your practical
			experience, Wes.

					DATA
			Commander Riker is correct. While
			the information imparted to cadets
			at the Academy is unquestionably
			vital for prospective Starfleet
			officers, it nevertheless requires
			a significant period of
			supplementary systems training
			and situational disciplines.

					RIKER
			Data... isn't that what I just
			said?

					DATA
			Yes, Commander. But not quite
			as perspicuously.

	Riker and Wesley react to that as we GO TO:

3    INT. SICKBAY/PULASKI'S OFFICE - PICARD

	paces in front of PULASKI, obviously being evasive:

					PICARD
			I won't have you telling me what
			course to set!

					PULASKI
			As chief medical officer, I am
			ordering you to report to Starbase
			five one five immediately!

					PICARD
			Oh, please. I feel fine.

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER       3.

3    CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			The truth is, you've neglected
			this far too long.

					PICARD
			This ship has a mission to carry
			out.

					PULASKI
			An astronomical survey to be
			conducted by the science officers,
			I believe.

					PICARD
			I've been looking forward to
			seeing the Epsilon Pulsar Cluster
			for myself.

					PULASKI
			Then we'll perform the procedure
			right here.

					PICARD
			Absolutely not.

					PULASKI
			My staff and I are perfectly
			capable of giving you the
			replacement.

					PICARD
			That's not the point. Not only
			am I in splendid health, but it
			would be inappropriate for you
			to perform the procedure.

					PULASKI
			Why Captain Picard, I had no idea.
			You do have an ego, don't you?

					PICARD
			Clarify.

					PULASKI
			You're concerned about your image.

					PICARD
			I never said that.

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER       4.

3    CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI
			Don't worry. Get yourself down
			to Starbase five one five and your
			image will be safe with me.

	He reacts to that, exiting as we GO TO:

4    INT. MAIN BRIDGE - THE TURBOLIFT DOORS

	open and Picard steps out, nearly bumping into Wesley
	who was about to enter the turbolift:

					WESLEY
			Captain... excuse me.

					PICARD
			I understand you're heading for
			Starbase five one five.

					WESLEY
			Yes, sir. I was just on my way
			to Shuttle Bay Two.

					PICARD
			Good. I have some business of
			my own there. I shall accompany.
			you.

	Wesley reacts, eyes widening, his voice cracking:

					WESLEY
			You will?
				(then, composing
				 himself)
			I mean, yessir!

					PICARD
			Prepare the shuttle for immediate
			departure.

					WESLEY
			Aye, sir.

	Wesley exits via the turbolift; Riker reacts to all of
	this, steps up to Picard.

					RIKER
			Is there something I can take care
			of for you at Starbase
			five one five?

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER       5.

4    CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			I'm afraid not, Number One.

					RIKER
			But you'll miss the Epsilon Pulsar
			survey.

					PICARD
			I'm very well aware of that. You
			have the bridge. Carry on.

	With that, Picard turns and exits into the Ready Room.
	Riker considers all of this, shares a concerned glance
	with the other bridge officers and then follows Picard
	into the Ready Room as we GO TO:

4A   INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM - PICARD

	turns to face Riker, as the door slides shut behind
	them:

					PICARD
			What is it, Number One?

					RIKER
			Is something wrong? This trip
			to Starbase five one five seems
			rather unexpected.

	Picard smiles awkwardly, goes about the business of
	picking up some reading material for his journey:

					PICARD
			Not to worry. Ensign Crusher and
			I will rendezvous with you on your
			return from the Epsilon Pulsar
			Cluster.

					RIKER
			Forgive my saying so, sir, but
			you're being rather enigmatic.

					PICARD
			Consider it captain's privilege.

					RIKER
			As first officer, I have complete
			security clearance--

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER       6.

4A   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			This has nothing to do with ship's
			business.
				(then, with a sigh)
			Suffice it to say that this is
			strictly a matter of ...vanity.

	Picard heads for the door with his books and exits as
	we GO TO:

5    INT. CORRIDOR - GEORDI

	is on his way to Engineering with SONYA, walking with
	Wesley, who is obviously worried about something:

					GEORDI
			Starbase five one five's not
			exactly around the corner, Wes.
			You have quite a trip ahead of
			you.

					WESLEY
			Yeah. I know.

					GEORDI
			Relax. You'll do fine on your
			exams.

					WESLEY
			It's not the exams I'm worried
			about. It's Captain Picard.

					SONYA
			Why? He's not taking the exams.

					WESLEY
			He's coming with me to starbase.
			Just the two of us. Nearly a
			six-hour transit. What am I going
			to talk to him about for six
			hours?

					SONYA
			Archaeology...semantics...
			literature... art... you can learn
			a lot from Captain Picard.

	Just then, Picard approaches:

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER       7.

5    CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Nice day for a little trip,
			Captain?

					PICARD
			Hardly.

	Picard and Wesley head off down another corridor as
	Geordi and Sonya react to Picard's mood as we GO TO:

5A   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	comes out of warp, decelerating to impulse speed while

6    OMITTED

7    INT. MAIN BRIDGE - DATA

	is in his "Ops" chair as he hears:

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Shuttle Number Two ready for
			departure.

					DATA
			We are at impulse speed and you
			are cleared for departure.

8    EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	the shuttle exits the Shuttle Bay.

9    INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL) - RIKER

	enters from the Ready Room, looking up at the
	viewscreen now to see the shuttle streaking away. He
	crosses to Data:

					RIKER
			Data... wasn't the captain looking
			forward to this mission to the
			Epsilon Pulsar Cluster?

					DATA
			So he had said.

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER       8.

9    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Then what would make him change
			his mind? Why would he leave the
			ship now?

	Data reacts to that, exchanging a concerned glance with
	Riker. Suddenly, Worf pipes up with:

					WORF
			Receiving a Mayday on all
			frequencies, sir!

					RIKER
			Source?

					WORF
			Rhomboid Dronegar Sector
			zero-zero-six--

					RIKER
			Detail.

					WORF
			Ship...unidentified...distress.
			Nothing more.

					RIKER
			Set course for Rhomboid Dronegar
			zero-zero-six at warp seven.

	Data looks to Riker, quietly concerned:

					DATA
			Sir... Rhomboid Dronegar sector
			will put us at considerable
			distance from Captain Picard.

					RIKER
			I know, Data. I know.

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

       STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE       9.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

9A   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	flashes past at warp seven while

10   INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER

	is in his chair while Data and Worf man their stations
	as:

					DATA
			Entering Rhomboid Dronegar Sector
			zero-zero-six.

					WORF
			I have a ship on target path.

					RIKER
			Slow to impulse speed.

10A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	decelerates

10B  INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER

	rises now:

					RIKER
			Viewer.

	Data taps his console appropriately and

11   THE MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)

	comes alive with the image of an unusual alien ship.
	Hardly aerodynamic, this craft appears to be something
	of a throwback when contrasted to the Enterprise. It's
	dead in the water. Riker approaches the screen,
	curious while Worf remains cautious:

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      10.

11   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Deploy shields, sir?

					RIKER
			Hold fast.
				(then)
			Data?

					DATA
				(re: the ship)
			Basic early design capable of
			sub-light travel only.

					WORF
			Commander, we are being hailed.

					RIKER
			On screen.

	The VIEWSCREEN image glitches for a split-second and
	then comes alive with the interior of the Pakled ship.
	It looks like an analog throwback to the late twenty-first
	century. A number of slothful, droopy-eyed humanoids
	appear to be working with great confusion on some
	engineering control panels in the b.g., as their
	commander, GREBNEDLOG, steps into foreground.

					RIKER
			I am First Officer William Riker.
			This is the USS Enterprise,
			responding to your distress
			signal--

	Grebnedlog arches his massive brow, his eyes opening
	just a bit wider as he responds with typically wistful
	Pakled hypoplastic speech, almost a sense of hopeful
	longing in their every word:

					GREBNEDLOG
			Uh-hunh.

	Riker exchanges a curious glance with Data, then back
	to screen:

					RIKER
			What is your problem?

					GREBNEDLOG
			We are far from home.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      11.

11   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			So are we, but you sent out a
			Mayday--

					GREBNEDLOG
			Uh-hunh

					RIKER
			Do you need help?

					GREBNEDLOG
			We are Pakleds. Our ship is the
			Mondor.
				(re the work in the
				 b.g.)
			It is broken.

	Riker sighs impatiently, turns to Data:

					DATA
			Sensors indicate engineering
			problems.

					RIKER
			Lieutentant La Forge to bridge...

					DATA
			They have experienced total
			guidance system failure and they
			have less than twenty-four hours' reserve
			power.

					RIKER
				(to viewscreen)
			What brings you so far from home?

					GREBNEDLOG
				(wistfully)
			We look for things.

					RIKER
			What were you looking for?

					GREBNEDLOG
			Things we need.

					RIKER
			Can you be more specific?

					GREBNEDLOG
			Uh-hunh.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      12.

11   CONTINUED: (3)

					RIKER
			Then please do so.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Things that make us go. We need
			help.

	In the b.g., the turbolift doors open and Geordi steps
	onto the bridge, spots the viewscreen. He looks at the
	Pakleds, grins wryly:

					GEORDI
			Let me guess: their rubber band
			broke, right?

					RIKER
				(to viewscreen)
			What is the nature of your
			mission?

					GREBNEDLOG
				(nodding slowly)
			We look for things.

					RIKER
				(aside; to Data)
			Do you hear an echo?
				(then, back to
				 viewscreen)
			Understood. Our chief engineer
			will beam aboard to help you--
				(to Worf)
			Out.

	Geordi reacts to that as all eyes turn toward him:

					GEORDI
			Wait a minute... me?

	And as Riker pats him reassuringly on the back, Worf
	turns from his station, concern etched all over his
	Klingon countenance:

					WORF
				(re: the viewscreen)
			Do we truly need to send our chief
			engineer over to them?

					RIKER
			They obviously need our help.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      13.

11   CONTINUED: (4)

					WORF
			Why do we not simply give them
			the information they need to make
			their repairs?

					RIKER
			Do you honestly think they could
			handle our technical
			specifications?

					WORF
			We don't know that much about
			them. I urge caution.

					RIKER
			Acknowledged, Worf... but we have
			an obligation to render aid.
				(turns to Geordi).
			Report to the Transporter Room
			with all necessary gear.

					GEORDI
			Aye, sir.

	With that, Geordi exits. Worf remains concerned, leans
	in to Riker with:

					WORF
			We need more information.

	Riker turns to Data:

					RIKER
			Do you have anything else on them?

					DATA
			They are a relatively benign
			species.

					RIKER
			Don't they seem a little... slow?

					DATA
			They may merely have
			poorly-developed language skills.

	Worf leans in with:

					WORF
			What about weapons?

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      14.

11   CONTINUED: (5)

					DATA
			Our scan shows very limited
			armaments.

					RIKER
			I think we can relax, Worf. They
			can't even get their ship moving
			without our help, and we certainly
			have them outmanned and outgunned.

	Worf can't argue with that as we GO TO:

12   EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	hurtling past us at impulse speed while:

13   INT. THE SHUTTLE - WESLEY

	handles the controls with confidence and aplomb.
	Picard checks the instruments with a scowl:

					PICARD
			E.t.a. thirteen-thirty hours.

					WESLEY
			Not exactly warp speed, sir.

					PICARD
			More like a late twenty-second century
			interplanetary journey.

					WESLEY
			Sir?

					PICARD
			You should read more history,
			Ensign.

					WESLEY
			Yes sir.

					PICARD
				(mumbling to himself)
			Complete waste of time...

					WESLEY
			Pardon, sir?

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      15.

13   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			I shouldn't be taking this trip
			at all. I belong back on the
			Enterprise.

					WESLEY
			Why are you going with me to
			Starbase five one five, Captain?

					PICARD
				(snappish)
			It's certainly not my idea!

	Wesley reacts, afraid to probe further. Picard glances
	over at:

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			I'm sorry. I don't mean to take
			it out on you.
				(then)
			I just hate going through another
			damned cardiac replacement.

					WESLEY
			Cardiac replacement? I didn't
			know...

					PICARD
			Now you do.

					WESLEY
			A parthenogenetic implant?

					PICARD
			What else would it be?
				(then, a bit softer)
			My own heart was injured and a
			replacement was necessary. That
			would have been it except that
			the replacement is flawed and must
			now be put right.

					WESLEY
			Why would anyone use a flawed
			replacement?

	Picard ices over at that, glaring out at the stars
	ahead now:

					PICARD
			Just pilot the shuttle, Ensign.

	And on Picard's obdurate countenance, we GO TO:

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      16.

14   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it maintains its position near the Mondor while

15   INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER

	turns his attention to the viewscreen where the Pakleds
	continue with their inefectual attempts at repair.

					RIKER
			All right. Let's get these
			repairs made so we can all be on
			our way.
				(then)
			First officer to La Forge...

16   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) - GEORDI

	is on the transporter platform, "tool kit" in hand:

					GEORDI
			Aye, Commander. Ready for
			transport.

					RIKER (V.O.)
			Proceed.

					GEORDI
			Energize...

	And as Geordi DEMATERIALIZES, we GO TO:

17   INT. THE PAKLED SHIP "MONDOR" (OPTICAL) - GEORDI

	MATERIALIZES, startling the Pakleds who react with
	their own brand of anxiety:

					GEORDI
			Hey, hey, it's okay. I'm here
			to help. Take it easy.

	Grebnedlog approaches tentatively with what appears to
	be profound, heartfelt sincerity:

					GREBNEDLOG
			We are far from home.

	Geordi reacts to that non-sequitur, eager to get down
	to business:

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      17.

17   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			What seems to be the problem?

					GREBNEDLOG
			Our ship is the Mondor.

					GEORDI
			Right. I got that already.
				(then, looking around)
			Who's in charge of engineering?

					GREBNEDLOG
			My friend. His name is Reginod.

					GEORDI
				(looking around)
			Think I could meet him?

	Another Pakled steps up. Grebnedlog makes the
	"introduction":

					GREBNEDLOG
			We have an engineer.

					GEORDI
			Great...

					GREBNEDLOG
			He is Reginod.

					GEORDI
			Yes, I think you mentioned that.

					REGINOD
			We look for things.

					GEORDI
			So I've heard.

					REGINOD
				(re the ship)
			It is broken.

					GEORDI
			Well... maybe I can fix it.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Can you make our ship go?

					GEORDI
			I think so.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      18.

17   CONTINUED: (2)

					GREBNEDLOG
				(to Geordi)
			We look for things to make us go.

	Geordi reacts, feeling like somebody's "got their
	needle stuck". He smiles patiently:

					GEORDI
			Fellas... why don't you show me
			where your guidance system is?

	Geordi starts wandering toward the back of the ship.
	Reginod turns to Grebnedlog, smiling:

					REGINOD
			He is smart.

	Grebnedlog returns the salivary smile as we GO TO:

18   INT. ENTERPRISE'S MAIN BRIDGE-TURBOLIFT DOORS (OPTICAL)

	open and Troi enters the scene, immediately riveted
	by what she sees up on the viewscreen. She steps over
	to Riker and Data, who regard the scene with Geordi
	with bemusement:

					TROI
			Commander... Lieutenant La Forge
			is on an alien ship?

					RIKER
			Yes. We're rendering assistance
			to some curious throwbacks.

					DATA
			How they ever mastered the
			rudiments of space travel is a
			genuine curiosity.

					TROI
			Commander... Those aliens... what
			they feel is not helplessness
			... Lieutenant La Forge is in great
			danger!

	Riker and Data react to that new input as

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE      19.

18A  GEORDI

	goes about his work, unaware of any hazard as we

									FADE OUT.

                          END ACT ONE                           

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      20.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

19   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	remains in position, in some proximity to the Mondor.

20   INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - TROI

	remains transfixed, Riker, Data and Worf reacting as
	she stands there, staring at the viewscreen:

					TROI
			Danger... great danger...

					RIKER
			Can you be more specific,
			Counselor?

					TROI
			They are insincere... It is not
			our help they want.

					RIKER
			Help is all they're going to get.
			They certainly can't force
			anything upon us, can they?

					TROI
			You feel they are weak.

					RIKER
				(re: the viewscreen)
			Look at them. Not exactly Jarada
			or Romulans.

	Data looks over at Riker, shares her concerns now:

					DATA
			Our Betazoid counselor is often
			aware of things beyond our
			perceptive abilities.

	Riker reacts to this, exchanges a glance of concern
	with Worf as we GO TO:

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      21.

21   EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	continues on its journey while

22   INT. THE SHUTTLE - PICARD

	appears to be reading, ignoring Wesley. Then, putting
	his reading down for a moment:

					PICARD
			Van Doren's technique has been
			perfected to two point four
			percent.

					WESLEY
			Sir?

					PICARD
			The cardiac replacement procedure.
			It has a very low mortality rate.
			Two point four percent.

					WESLEY
			Those are pretty good odds.

	He considers that for a beat, then admits:

					PICARD
			The fact is, I'm not interested
			in having my innards become the
			subject of Starfleet gossip.

					WESLEY
			Of course, sir. But why didn't
			you have Doctor Pulaski perform
			the operation? You could've
			trusted her to keep it quiet.

					PICARD
			Let's just say I have personal
			reasons and leave it at that,
			shall we?

	Picard returns to his "reading". Wesley reacts, his
	curiosity stifled now as we GO TO:

23   INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI

	is hard at work on the Pakled guidance system, really
	enjoying himself. Several Pakleds including Grebnedlog
	and Reginod hover nearby, observing him as he explains:

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      22.

23   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			The power needs to be rerouted
			through this venturi chamber
			before it can be channeled through
			the engine coils.

					REGINOD
			It is broken.

					GEORDI
			But not for long. See? We're
			going to reconfigure these
			separators here...

	Reginod looks to Grebnedlog, who nods in agreement:

					GREBNEDLOG
			It is broken.

					REGINOD
				(to Geordi)
			You are brilliant.

	Geordi reacts, flattered, but realistic:

					GEORDI
			Actually, any first year
			engineering intern could do the
			same thing--

	Just then, Geordi reacts to his communicator as he
	hears:

					RIKER (V.O.)
			Lieutenant La Forge, this is
			Commander Riker...

	Geordi taps his communicator and responds:

					GEORDI
			Yes, Commander. Go ahead.

24   INT. THE ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Riker and Troi stand before the viewscreen, observing
	Geordi aboard the Mondor:

					RIKER
			Are you all right?

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      23.

24   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Sure. Why do you ask?

					RIKER
			Counselor Troi has expressed
			misgivings about your absence from
			The Enterprise.

	In the b.g., Grebnedlog and Reginod exchange an
	uncharacteristically alert glance by way of response
	to that while:

					GEORDI
			I don't think there's much to
			worry about.

					RIKER
			Understood. But as soon as the
			repairs are completed, I want you
			back here.

					GEORDI
			Aye, sir, I should be done
			momentarily.

	Riker looks to Troi who remains unshaken in her
	convictions while:

25   INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI

	twists the last framiss on the final spigot, looks up
	with a smile:

					GEORDI
			There. Guidance is up and
			running.

	Suddenly, the lights flicker, dim, and go dark. A
	GROAN is heard as reserve power kicks in, lights come
	up one-half and Geordi smiles:

					GEORDI
			Main power failure?

					GREBNEDLOG
			Will our ship go now?

					GEORDI
			The guidance system's repaired,
			but you're not going anywhere
			without main power.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      24.

25   CONTINUED:

					GREBNEDLOG
				(to Reginod)
			It is broken.

					REGINOD
				(to Geordi)
			Can you make it go?

	Geordi looks at the Pakleds, sighs heavily, then taps
	his communicator:

					GEORDI
			Commander Riker, it looks like
			this might take a little longer
			than I anticipated...

	And as Geordi returns to this new problem...

25A  INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER AND TROI

	react to that with mutually mounting concern as we go
	to...

26   EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	continues its impulse-speed journey while

27   INT. THE SHUTTLE - PICARD

	finally puts his reading down. Rubs his eyes. It's a
	long trip. He seems lost in his thoughts, somewhat
	unfocused as he studies the passing starfields. At his
	side, Wesley checks his instruments carefully, takes
	a deep breath as all seems well. Then, building his
	courage for a beat, he turns to Picard:

					WESLEY
			You don't really care much for
			people, do you?

					PICARD
			What?

					WESLEY
			It's okay. You can just do
			without most people. I can
			understand that --

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      25.

27   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Ensign...Wesley. That's not true.
			I have great regard for you, for
			example. You're a fine young
			man.

					WESLEY
			You don't have to say that.

					PICARD
			I do not say what I do not mean.

					WESLEY
			Well, it's pretty obvious how you
			feel.

					PICARD
			Is it? How so?

					WESLEY
			Well, everyone knows. You don't
			like kids.

					PICARD
			I simply have... other priorities.

					WESLEY
			That's too bad.
				(then)
			You might've made a pretty good
			father.

					PICARD
			Thank you.

					WESLEY
			Didn't you ever wish you had kids
			of your own?

	A moment of silence as Picard considers that. Then:

					PICARD
			Wishing for a thing does not make
			it so.

	Wesley ponders that reality as we GO TO:

28   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	remains positioned near the Pakled ship Mondor while

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      26.

29   INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Worf, Data, Troi and Riker are all in position. Riker
	is beginning to lose his patience as he turns to Data:

					RIKER
			We send him over there for one
			set of repairs and now they need
			him for more.

					DATA
			Their ship is apparently quite
			fragile.

	Riker steps forward to the viewscreen where he can see
	the Pakleds working on their ship, Geordi in the
	distant b.g., hard at work in a console panel:

					RIKER
			This is Riker on board the
			Enterprise.

	The Pakleds ignore Riker's summons, continue milling
	around looking for the solution to their myriad
	problems:

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			I repeat. This is Commander Riker
			of the Enterprise.

	Geordi looks up from his work briefly, calling to
	Riker from the b.g.:

					GEORDI
			Almost got it, Commander--

	He returns to his work as Grebnedlog turns to face the
	viewscreen now, his eyes almost completely
	disinterested:

					GREBNEDLOG
			We look for things.

					RIKER
			Apparently your ship is in need
			of more than minor repairs.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Things to make it go.

					RIKER
			We will use our tractor beam to
			tow you to your nearest base.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      27.

29   CONTINUED:

					GREBNEDLOG
				(re: Geordi)
			He can make it go.

					RIKER
			Yes, but we need our chief
			engineer back on board our ship--

	Just then, all power is restored to the Pakled ship,
	and as lights come full-up, Geordi pulls himself out of
	the console panel in the b.g. to hear:

					GREBNEDLOG
			He is smart.

	Geordi steps up beside Grebnedlog.

					GEORDI
			All done, Commander.

					RIKER
			Prepare to beam over.

29A  INT. MONDOR BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir.

	Reginod steps up behind Geordi with:

					REGINOD
			You are good.

					GEORDI
			Thanks. We aim to please.

					REGINOD
			We need you.

					GEORDI
			I'm flattered. Now I hate to
			repair and run, but if you'll
			excuse me...

	And Geordi steps away from the others, announcing to
	Riker:

					GEORDI
			One to beam aboard--

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      28.

29A  CONTINUED:

	Suddenly, Grebnedlog reaches over and with surprising
	sleight-of-hand, deftly snatches Geordi's small phaser
	away from him.

					GEORDI
			Hey!

	And as Geordi reaches to take the phaser back,
	Grebnedlog fires with the stun setting, knocking Geordi
	back, slamming him into a bulkhead, knocking his VISOR
	off:

29B  RIKER (OPTICAL)

	reacts immediately, calling out:

					RIKER
			Transporter room, beam La Forge
			over immediately.

					TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.)
			Aye... negative response, sir!

					RIKER
			Try again!

					TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.)
			Negative response!

					DATA
			The Pakled ship has a shield up,
			sir!

					RIKER
			A shield? What kind?

					DATA
			It appears to be beyond their
			technology... similar to Romulan
			shields!

	Riker clenches his jaw, commands the Pakleds now:

					RIKER
			Do not interfere with our
			transporter beam. Repeat. Drop
			your shield--

	Suddenly, the viewscreen glitches and goes to exterior
	view of the Mondor.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO      29.

29B  CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Status!

					WORF
			Viewer transmission terminated
			and blocked.

	Riker shares a look of mounting concern with his crew
	as we,

									FADE OUT:

                          END ACT TWO                           

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     30.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

30   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	remains in view of the Pakled's Mondor.

31   INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER, DATA, WORF, TROI

	are all in position as Riker commands his crew:

					RIKER
			Hail on all frequencies.

					DATA
			Running frequency search...
			negative response.

					RIKER
			They're ignoring us!

					DATA
			Apparently so, sir.

					WORF
			Phasers ready, sir.

					RIKER
			Shields up.

	Worf responds, activating his security station console,
	reporting:

					WORF
			Shields up.

					RIKER
			Sensors at maximum sensitivity.

	Data responds with precision, then reports:

					DATA
			Sensors at maximum.

					WORF
			Phasers ready, sir.

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     31.

31   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Hold fire. Lieutenant La Forge
			is on that ship.

	And as Riker and his crew contemplate that grim
	reality, we GO TO:

32   EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	continues cruising at impulse speed while

33   INT. PICARD'S SHUTTLE - WESLEY

	carefully probes, eager to learn more about Picard:

					WESLEY
			Were you ever married?

					PICARD
			My career always came first. I
			never had time.

					WESLEY
			Don't you ever get lonely?

					PICARD
			There have been certain costs
			involved.

					WESLEY
			Well, I'll bet you've broken your
			fair share of hearts along the
			way...

					PICARD
			A man needs to be careful about
			that sort of thing.

					WESLEY
			Don't worry about me. Where women
			are concerned, I'm in complete
			control.

					PICARD
			Really? I've always had to work
			at it.

					WESLEY
			Have you always known what you've
			wanted... been so disciplined?

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     32.

33   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			No.
				(re his chest)
			That's why I'm going in to get
			this thing replaced.

					WESLEY
			I don't understand.

					PICARD
			Well... I was a young Starfleet
			officer. Just a few years older
			than you are now. Green as hell.
			Top of my Academy Class, and oh,
			so proud. Too proud, as it turned
			out.

					WESLEY
			What happened?

					PICARD
			Several of us were on leave at
			Far Space Starbase
			Earhart... something of a galactic
			outpost in those days--

					WESLEY
			Before the Klingons joined the
			Federation?

					PICARD
			That's right. My mates and I were
			at the Bonestell Recreation
			Facility, which was nothing more
			than a crossroads at the time.
			A trio of Nausicaans came in.
			They were spoiling for a
			confrontation with some
			fresh-faced young Starfleet
			officers like ourselves. Everyone
			in our group had the good sense
			to back away and give these
			Nausicaans wide berth. Everyone
			but me, that is. I stood
			toe-to-toe with the nastiest of
			the three and let him know what
			I thought of him, his partners,
			and his planet. I probably even
			made some passing reference to
			his questionable parentage.
					(MORE)

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     33.

33   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD (Cont'd)
			The next thing I knew, I had all
			three of them on me and I was
			fighting for my life. Acquitted
			myself quite well for several
			furious exchanges, I'm proud to
			say.

					WESLEY
			You fought them? And won?

					PICARD
			I had this one Nausicaan down on
			the floor in a particularly
			devious joint-lock when before
			I knew what was happening, one
			of his cohorts drew his weapon
			and impaled me through the back.
			Strange sensation, actually. Not
			much pain. Shock, certainly, at
			the sight of serrated metal coming
			out of one's chest, and then a
			certain giddy warmth. As I
			recall, I actually laughed aloud.
			It pierced my heart, of course,
			and if we hadn't been so near a
			medical facility I would surely
			have died.

					WESLEY
			Really? Really? Then what?

					PICARD
			Then nothing. I was no hero.
			I was an undisciplined,
			opinionated, loud-mouthed young
			man who was far out of his league.
			It was a great and painful lesson,
			but I learned it well. I only
			hope you won't need to learn it
			as I did...

	Wesley reacts with a gulp, realizing that he does
	indeed have a lot to learn as we GO TO:

34   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND THE MONDOR (OPTICAL)

	are as before while

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     34.

35   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER

	paces, doing his best to keep his temper in check as he
	looks to Data:

					RIKER
			Data, come on...

					DATA
			I am programming the comm system
			to scan the interference patterns,
			but a full analysis will take
			time.

	Data reacts, his hands dexterously flying over his
	console like nothing we've ever seen him do before as
	we GO TO:

36   INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI (OPTICAL)

	is hit by yet another phaser stun, slams back into a
	bulkhead and then struggles to his feet, shaking off
	his phaser's stun effects:

					GEORDI
			Please... no more.

					GREBNEDLOG
			This is fun.

	Geordi reaches out, groping for his VISOR:

					GEORDI
			My VISOR...

	Reginod picks it up, studies it:

					REGINOD
			This does something.

	Geordi reacts, realizes the Pakled has the VISOR now:

					GEORDI
			Yes. It allows me to see.

	Reginod and Grebnedlog react curiously. They wave
	their digits in front of Geordi's face. He doesn't
	react, reaching out for the VISOR as they keep it away
	from him:

					GEORDI
			Where is it? Give it to me--

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     35.

36   CONTINUED:

					GREBNEDLOG
			Can you make us go now?

	Geordi lunges for him, stumbling. Reginod realizes:

					REGINOD
			He cannot make us go.

					GREBNEDLOG
			He is not smart.
				(re: the VISOR)
			This is smart.

	He hands the VISOR back to Geordi, and he clicks it
	back into place, reacting now at the sight of his
	phaser in Grebnedlog's mitt:

					GEORDI
				(re: the phaser)
			Be careful with that thing.

					GREBNEDLOG
			You want to hurt us.

					GEORDI
			What? I came here to help you.
				(re: the ship)
			I fixed your guidance system and
			the main power generator, didn't
			I?

					REGINOD
				(re: the phaser)
			We can make more.

	Geordi reacts, realizing:

					GEORDI
			You have a replicator?

					GREBNEDLOG
				(with pride)
			It is not broken.

					GEORDI
			I didn't come here to give you
			weapons.

					GREBNEDLOG
				(re: the phaser, points
				 it at Geordi)
			You will make more.

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     36.

36   CONTINUED: (2)

	Geordi reacts to that threat, considering his options
	now as we GO TO:

37   INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - WORF

	crosses to Riker with:

					WORF
			Commander, a photon torpedo may
			penetrate their shield.

					RIKER
			Any hostile move on our part
			would only jeopardize Geordi.

					WORF
			But what do the Pakleds want?

	Riker glances over at Troi, hoping she has an answer:

					RIKER
			Counselor?

					TROI
			They have what they want... for
			now.

	Riker reacts to that as we GO TO:

38   INT. PICARD'S SHUTTLE - PICARD (OPTICAL)

	thumbs through one of the books he's brought along.
	Then, turning to Wesley:

					PICARD
			Did you read that book I gave
			you?

	Wesley reacts, barely concealing a grimace as he
	recalls:

					WESLEY
			Some of it.

					PICARD
			That's reassuring.

					WESLEY
			I just don't have much time.

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     37.

38   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(re the book in his
				 hand)
			There is no greater challenge than
			the study of philosophy.

	Wesley glances over at Picard's book:

					WESLEY
			William James sure won't be on
			my Starfleet exams.

					PICARD
			The important things never will
			be. Anyone can be trained to deal
			with technology, and the
			mechanics of piloting a starship.

					WESLEY
			But Starfleet Academy--

					PICARD
			It takes more than just that.
			Open your mind to the past... to
			history, art, philosophy. And
			then...
				(re: the stars)
			... this will mean something.

	Wesley considers this, almost embarrassed as he
	realizes Picard does truly care about him. Then:

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Just consider James' wisdom:
			"Philosophy... is not a technical
			matter... it is our sense of what
			life honestly means... our
			individual way of feeling the
			total push and pressure of the
			cosmos."
				(then)
			That's what I want for you.

	Wesley reacts to that and as they move closer to
	starbase, we GO TO:

39   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	hasn't moved, still in sight of the Mondor while

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     38.

40   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - TROI

	steps up to Riker as she reports her feelings:

					TROI
			It is all deception. Lies.

					RIKER
			Everything? What about the
			distress call?

					TROI
			Nothing the Pakleds have said or
			done has been sincere.

	Data looks up from his console:

					DATA
			Intensified scan shows their
			guidance system is perfectly
			intact, as is their power
			generator.

					RIKER
			Then what was Geordi repairing?

					DATA
			Apparently, the putative
			malfunctions were carefully
			programmed into their ship's
			computer.

					RIKER
			I didn't think the Pakleds had
			that kind of technology.

					DATA
			They seem to have made some
			technological leaps forward,
			Commander.

					RIKER
			But why would they go through
			the charade of needing our help?

					TROI
			For the sole purpose of making
			Lieutenant La Forge their prisoner.

					RIKER
			Options?

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     39.

40   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Tactically speaking, we have
			three choices: we can negotiate,
			attack, or simply abandon
			Lieutenant La Forge.

	Riker reacts to these uncomfortable options as we GO
	TO:

41   EXT./INT. STARBASE 515 MEDICAL COMPLEX

	Picard and Wesley approach the entrance to this
	high-tech Starfleet facility:

					PICARD
			You don't want to be late for your
			exams, Ensign.

					WESLEY
			I've still got some time, sir.

					PICARD
			Why do I get the feeling you're
			acting like some kind of escort?

					WESLEY
			Doctor Pulaski asked me to make
			sure you actually went inside.

					PICARD
			That woman. She would.

					WESLEY
			Sir?

					PICARD
			What is it?

					WESLEY
			I enjoyed our trip together.

	Picard's momentarily taken aback; the young man
	actually cares about him.

					PICARD
			So did I.

	After a brief, moment of mutual feeling, Picard turns
	and heads into the medical facility as we GO TO:

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     40.

41A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	hovers squarely in front of the Mondor.

42   INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Riker and the others react as Data monitors his panel:

					DATA
			They are initiating visual
			contact--

					RIKER
			Maybe we'll find out what the hell
			they really want.

	The viewscreen comes alive with the image of Grebnedlog
	holding Geordi's phaser in his mitt. Reginod and the
	other Pakleds all hold replicated versions of the
	original now. Geordi is in the background, slowly
	struggling to his feet once again, propped up by
	Reginod as other Pakleds play recklessly with their
	phasers. One of them takes a shot at his comrade,
	missing him, like children playing with dangerous
	toys. Grebnedlog turns to face the viewscreen:

					GREBNEDLOG
			Enterprise.

					RIKER
			We demand the immediate return
			of our crewmember.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Request denied.

					RIKER
			Lower your shield!

					GREBNEDLOG
			Request denied.

	With that, he turns back toward Geordi, gives him a
	quick stun blast from the phaser, and as Geordi is
	slammed back into the bulkhead again, he collapses in a
	heap.

42A  RIKER (OPTICAL)

	reacts, truly beside himself with anger now:

     STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE     41.

42A  CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Stop it! What do you want?

					GREBNEDLOG
				(re: the phaser)
			Your ship has bigger ones.

					RIKER
			For defense against attack.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Your ship is strong. Smart.

					RIKER
			Our strength contributes to peace
			in this region of the galaxy.
			We mean no one harm.

					GREBNEDLOG
			You think we are not smart.

					RIKER
			I think you need to continue to
			develop --

					GREBNEDLOG
			We are smart.

					RIKER
			Prove it. Return our man to us.

					GREBNEDLOG
				(re: Geordi)
			You want him?

					RIKER
			Yes, dammit!

					GREBNEDLOG
			Good. We want all computer
			information from your ship.
				(aims the phaser at
				 Geordi again)
			Now.

	Riker and the others react to this frightening demand
	as we

									FADE OUT:

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR      42.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

43   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	maintains its position within sight of the Mondor while

44   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Riker, Data, Worf, Troi and Pulaski are gathered around
	the table. All are grim, tense:

					RIKER
			We've got a man held hostage by
			alien forces and all I have are
			non-option options! I'd like some
			input...

					PULASKI
			Is Geordi all right?

					WORF
				(bristling)
			They've already hit him with
			multiple phaser stuns.

					PULASKI
				(to Riker)
			He could need medical attention.

					WORF
			Security team stands ready to take
			the initiative, sir.

					RIKER
			Data?

					DATA
			Our options have not changed.
			We can either respond to the
			Pakled demand or not. We can
			either use force or not.

					RIKER
			I've already answered their
			demand. Allowing access to the
			Enterprise computers by alien
			forces would be a complete breech
			of Starfleet security.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR      43.

44   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Then force it must be.

	Riker reacts, considering that more seriously than ever
	before now as we GO TO:

45   INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - (OPTICAL)

	Picard lies on an operating table, surrounded by
	twenty-fourth century surgical equipment as NURSES prepare
	him for his procedure. Off to one side, a MEDICAL TEAM
	preps the replacement heart. The SURGEON steps up to
	PICARD, reassures him:

					SURGEON
			Ready?

					PICARD
			Get on with it, Doctor. I've got
			work to do.

	The surgeon nods to the ANESTHESIOLOGIST:

					SURGEON
			Activate Sterile Field. Neural
			calipers.

	The anesthesiologist places a silver wire caliper to
	Picard's head. The caliper receives a signal from a
	small console, which the anesthesiologist now attends
	to. A beat later, Picard calmly closes his eyes in
	perfect repose. The surgeon looks to his team:

					SURGEON
			This will be a secondary cardiac
			procedure with mid-line entry and
			excision of the early model unit.
			I anticipate no complications as
			the patient has had positive
			primary results and exhibits
			extraordinary physical condition.
				(then)
			We'll all be home in time for
			dinner.
				(holds his hand out,
				 palm up)
			Tissue mitigator.

	A nurse responds by slapping a small, glowing glass
	rod in his hand as we GO TO:

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR      44.

46   INT. THE ENTERPRISE OBSERVATION LOUNGE - RIKER

	and his crew are still between the proverbial rock and
	a hard place as Data informs them:

					DATA
			There is very little information
			available on Pakled culture, but
			the eclectic range of their
			equipment would suggest that
			everything they have has been
			stolen from others.

					TROI
			And now they have become militant.

					DATA
			So it would seem.

					RIKER
			Rationale?

					TROI
			They are unwilling to wait for
			the timely evolution of their
			species' intellectual capacity.
			They seek instant knowledge,
			instant power and gratification.

					PULASKI
			You make them sound like petulant
			children.

					TROI
			Yes. Infantile humans are known
			for responses of a similar nature.

					RIKER
			Then suppose we treat them like
			children.

					DATA
			Sir?

					RIKER
			It's time we set some limits.

					DATA
			To what effect, sir? We are faced
			with an impossible conundrum.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR      45.

46   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Not if we let Geordi give them
			something they want... and then
			create the right moment for him
			to take it away.

					TROI
			Would you be suggesting a ruse
			of some sort?

					RIKER
			I would.

					PULASKI
			And what if it fails? What'll
			happen to Geordi then?

					RIKER
			We don't have any choice. We have
			to try.

47   INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD

	lies in repose, the surgical team calmly carrying out
	the cardiac replacement procedure. Hovering over
	Picard now is a large praying mantis-like piece of
	equipment that seems to reach down into his chest
	cavity:

					SURGEON
			There has been some capillary
			reaction here... let's proceed
			carefully... we'll need sharper
			focus on the thoracic
			polychromatics and verification
			of myocardial enzyme balance.

	The team attends to the equipment as the Surgeon
	continues his delicate work and now we GO TO:

48   INT. THE PAKLED MONDOR BRIDGE - GEORDI

	steels himself against the effects of the phaser shots
	he's already endured, looks up at the Pakleds:

					GEORDI
			Let me talk to them. I'll get
			you their computer banks.

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR      46.

48   CONTINUED:

					GREBNEDLOG
			We want to be smart.

					GEORDI
			So open the hailing frequency.
			They'll listen to me.

					GREBNEDLOG
				(to Reginod)
			We are smart.

					REGINOD
			We need their computer things.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Yes.
				(then, to Geordi)
			Yes.

	Grebnedlog turns an analog dial on a console and now

49   INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	comes to life with the image of the Mondor bridge.
	Riker steps up, flanked by Data, Worf, Pulaski, and
	Troi, reacting to:

					GEORDI
			Commander Riker?

					RIKER
			Yes, Lieutenant. We're here.

					GEORDI
			The Pakleds seem pretty sincere.

					GREBNEDLOG
			We want what we want.

					RIKER
			Our computer banks are
			non-negotiable.

					GEORDI
			Excuse me, Commander, but let's
			consider that for a minute. The
			Enterprise's protected memory
			storage is so extensive that it
			would take well over twenty-four
			hours just to access.
					(MORE)

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR      47.

49   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI (Cont'd)
			In that time, maybe we could all
			reach a more acceptable resolution
			to our little misunderstanding
			here.

					GREBNEDLOG
			We want to be smart.

					GEORDI
				(to Riker)
			Belive me, they're nothing if not
			persistent.

					GREBNEDLOG
			We want to be nothing if not
			persistent.

					GEORDI
				(to Riker)
			Nobody ever said they were great
			conversationalists.

					RIKER
			Where did they get their shields?

					GREBNEDLOG
			Yes. We like shields.

					GEORDI
			From what I've seen, half the
			systems on this ship have been
			stolen from Romulans, Jarada,
			Klingons, just about anybody they
			ever came in contact with.

					GREBNEDLOG
			We like to be smart.

					RIKER
			Confirmed, Lieutenant La Forge.
			They steal technology.

					DATA
			But they lack the ability to use
			it properly.

	Riker considers that, exchanges a conspiratorial
	glance with his crew, then clears his throat and
	intones:

      STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR      48.

49   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
				(back to Geordi)
			You're an excellent chief
			engineer, Lieutenant.

					GEORDI
			Thank you, sir.

					RIKER
			And of course, your knowledge
			of phaser and photon weaponry is
			unmatched.

					GREBNEDLOG
				(chiming in mindlessly)
			We like phasers.

					GEORDI
			That's kind of you to say, sir,
			but Lieutenant Worf --

					RIKER
				(cutting him off)
			Our missions are always inherently
			dangerous. Any of us could be
			called upon to make the ultimate
			sacrifice at any time.

					GEORDI
			Uh... yes, sir, but --

					RIKER
			Speaking of time, Lieutenant,
			this may be your time. I shall
			personally miss you.

	Geordi reacts to that with confusion. Grebnedlog and
	Reginod glance at each other, concerned as Data steps
	up to speak to Geordi:

					DATA
			You will always be in my memory.

					GEORDI
			Data... wait a minute. Can't
			we.. ?

					DATA
			I shall miss you at weapons
			systems analysis.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR          49.

49   CONTINUED: (3)

	Geordi wrinkles his brow as he considers that for a
	beat, then something begins to dawn upon him:

					GEORDI
			Weapons system analysis?
				(then, tentative, trying
				 it out)
			I guess you'll just have to carry
			out the photon torpedo countdowns
			without me.

					DATA
			Exactly. Fond farewell.

					GREBNEDLOG
				(to Reginod)
			He knows about weapons.

					REGINOD
			He is smart.

					GREBNEDLOG
				(to Geordi)
			You can make us strong.

					GEORDI
				(with "humility")
			It's not something I like to talk
			about --

	Just then, Worf steps up to face the viewscreen:

					WORF
			Lieutenant La Forge.

					GEORDI
			Worf... my old friend.

					WORF
			Any classified weapons knowledge
			you share with your captors will
			be considered treason.

					GEORDI
				(re the Pakleds)
			I may have no choice.

					WORF
			You will die without honor.

					GEORDI
			I know. Just my luck.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR          50.

49   CONTINUED: (4)

					WORF
			You will never attain the
			twenty-four levels of awareness.

	Geordi reacts to that, making specific mental notes:

					GEORDI
			Twenty-four? That's quite a
			challenge.

					WORF
			Indeed. Twenty-four is the
			gateway to heroic salvation.

	With that, Grebnedlog reaches over to the console,
	twists the analog switch and cuts off further
	communication and the viewscreen goes black. Pulaski
	steps to Riker:

					PULASKI
			Do you think he understands?

					RIKER
			He'd better.

					TROI
			He is afraid.

					RIKER
			We all are, Counselor.

50   INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE - GREBNEDLOG

	now turns to Geordi with new appreciation:

					GREBNEDLOG
			You are smart.

					GEORDI
			Not smart enough. I'm still here.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Make us strong.

					GEORDI
			I thought you wanted me to help
			you... "go". Why don't we work
			on that guidance system, okay?

	Grebnedlog levels Geordi's phaser at him:

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR          51.

50   CONTINUED:

					GREBNEDLOG
			Make us strong. Or die.

	Geordi reacts to that, suppressing a mischievous smile
	as he surrenders to their commands while we GO TO

51   INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - (OPTICAL)

	Picard remains motionless, even more awesomely
	technological gear in the room now. The surgeon
	perspires heavily; tension hangs in the air:

					SURGEON
			The metabilation occlusions aren't
			holding.

	A nurse hands him another set of metabilators; these
	have even more contractile expediators on them. The
	surgeon tries them, reacts angrily:

					SURGEON
			Damnit! I can't stop the
			heterocyclic declination! Fuse!

	A sharp BEAM flashes down from overhead, sending up
	a puff of smoke from Picard's thorax,. It doesn't
	work. The surgeon looks up, commanding now:

					SURGEON
			Again!

	The BEAM flashes again. Another puff of smoke. The
	surgeon sags as he realizes:

					SURGEON
			We need a Biomolecular
			Physiologist in here! This man
			is dying!

	With that, one of the nurses reacts, bolts for the
	doors and we

									FADE OUT:

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          52.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

52   EXT. SPACE - THE MONDOR (OPTICAL)

	remains in position. The Enterprise in proximity while

53   INT. THE MONDOR ARMAMENT BAY - GEORDI

	is ushered to their relatively primitive "gun turrets"
	by Grebnedlog and Reginod. Geordi reacts:

					GEORDI
			You've gotta be kidding.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Make us strong.

					GEORDI
				(re: the armaments)
			There isn't enough juice in these
			to blow off a passing asteroid.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Do it. Make us strong.

	Geordi studies the situation carefully, finally
	acknowledging:

					GEORDI
			I suppose we could increase the
			anti-matter charges.

					REGINOD
			Yes. We like power.

	Grebnedlog points to a set of weapon-force meters and
	lights:

					GREBNEDLOG
			Do not try to trick us. We can
			tell.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          53.

53   CONTINUED:

	And as Geordi starts to work, we GO TO

54   INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD

	appears to be losing his battle for life, his face
	increasingly ashen now as the surgeon and a
	BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST crowd around the patient:

					BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
			Metabilation?

					SURGEON
			Negative.

					BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
			Heterocyclics?

					SURGEON
			Failing. And capillary integrity
			too unpredictable to attempt a
			resect.

					BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
			You're unwilling to make the
			attempt??

					SURGEON
			I'm not qualified.

					BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST
			I know someone who is.

	With that, the biomolecular physiologist touches a
	communications panel on the wall and we GO TO:

55   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	hangs close to the Mondor while

56   INT. MAIN ENGINEERING - SONYA

	looks up from the glow of the pool table to look
	incredulously at Riker and Data:

					SONYA
			Are you sure he can do it? He's
			an engineer, not a weapons
			specialist.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          54.

56   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			True. But if anyone can
			improvise, it's Geordi.

					SONYA
			What makes you think the Pakleds
			even have that kind of gear on
			board?

					DATA
			Ongoing scanning indicates
			progressive weapons potential.
				(then, to Riker)
			The timing will be crucial. He
			must correctly interpret our
			intentions.

					RIKER
			Geordi's up to speed. I trust
			his instincts.

					DATA
			The Pakleds did hear our little
			fiction about Geordi's "weapons
			knowledge."

					RIKER
			Exactly. And since they obviously
			equate intelligence with strength,
			they won't pass up this chance
			to use that knowledge.
				(then, to Sonya)
			Can you do it?

					SONYA
			Count on it.

	Suddenly, Sonya's interrupted by the urgency of

					WORF (V.O.)
			Bridge to Commander Riker!

					RIKER
			Go ahead, bridge --

					WORF (V.O.)
			I am receiving an emergency
			summons from Starbase
			five one five... Captain Picard
			is close to death!

	Riker reacts, stunned as he looks to Data:

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          55.

56   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
				(to Sonya)
			Be ready!

	Riker and Data exit and Sonya goes to work on the
	anti-matter blender as we GO TO:

57   INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI

	crawls out from the weapons bay. He's had better
	days, and he dusts himself off as he turns to
	Grebnedlog and Reginod who react with delight as their
	weapons-force meters and lights surge with new life:

					REGINOD
				(re the meters)
			We are strong.

					GEORDI
			You're now armed to the teeth.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Teeth are for chewing.

					GEORDI
				(with a patient sigh)
			You have photon torpedoes. You
			are strong.

	Grebnedlog "smiles" at Reginod now:

					GREBNEDLOG
			We are strong. We have power.

	And as the two Pakleds contemplate how to use their
	newfound might, we GO TO:

58   INT. THE ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER

	is in command position, Pulaski at his side, Worf at
	his station, Troi nearby as Data looks up from his
	scanner console, announcing:

					DATA
			Positive indication of armed
			photon torpedoes, Commander.

					RIKER
			Geordi did it.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          56.

58   CONTINUED:

	Worf turns from his security station, calling out:

					WORF
			Starbase requests we proceed to
			base at warp nine --

					PULASKI
			We've got to go!

					TROI
			Yes. Captain Picard needs our
			help.

					RIKER
			We can't leave Geordi behind --
				(then, to Data)
			I want the Pakleds on that screen
			and I want them now!

					DATA
			Forced spectrum communications
			are spotty at best, sir.

					RIKER
			Do it.

58A  THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	comes alive with the very fuzzy, forced-spectrum image
	of the Mondor bridge where Grebnedlog and Reginod are
	settling into their command chairs as Geordi stands in
	the b.g. and now

58B  RIKER (OPTICAL)

	quickly steps before the viewscreen:

					RIKER
			This is the Enterprise. Return
			our personnel or face immediate
			reprisal.

					GREBNEDLOG
			We are strong now. We have better
			weapons.

					RIKER
			Are you prepared to use them?

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          57.

58B  CONTINUED:

					REGINOD
			We are a force now. We will have
			respect. Power.

					TROI
			They feel confident.

					RIKER
			We don't have time for this. You
			want power? This is power...
				(to computer)
			Bridge to Ensign Gomez...

59   INT. ENGINEERING - SONYA

	reacts, responds as she works furiously at some
	heavy-duty anti-matter work:

					SONYA
			Ready, Commander Riker --

					RIKER (V.O.)
			Initiate sequencing.

	Sonya hits some new panels and now the engine core
	begins to react with a massive ROAR while

60   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER

	glares at the Pakleds and calls their bluff with:

					RIKER
			Begin firing sequence countdown
			from twenty-four.

60AA	THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	The Pakleds react, startled at Riker's aggressiveness
	as Geordi takes his cue, leans back into the weapons
	bay to make some "adjustments," assuring Grebnedlog:

					GEORDI
			They mean business. Let me just
			check something.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          58.

60A  INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN ENGINEERING - SONYA

	moves quickly, efficiently, as she works to boost
	hydrogen output, as we hear:

					COMPUTER (V.O.)
			Twenty-one... twenty...
			nineteen... eighteen...

60B  INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER

	stands before the viewscreen, Worf ready at his station
	as they hear:

					COMPUTER (V.O.)
			Seventeen... sixteen...
			fifteen... fourteen...

					WORF
			Firing sequence proceeding, sir.

					RIKER
			Hold fast.

					COMPUTER (V.O.)
			Eleven... ten... nine...

60C  INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE

	The Pakleds debate the wisdom of their choices now,
	then turning to face Riker while Geordi works in the
	b.g. furiously making his "adjustments."

					GREBNEDLOG
			We will attack.
				(re the weapons meters)
			We are strong.

					REGINOD
				(to Grebnedlog)
			We should attack now.

					GEORDI
			Just another second here...

					GREBNEDLOG
			Hurry.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          59.

60D  INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER

	reacts to what he sees on the viewscreen, looks to Worf
	as they listen to:

					COMPUTER (V.O.)
			six... five... four... three...

	Tension mounts as

60E  OMITTED

60F  INT. ENGINEERING - SONYA

	is taut, poised over her console waiting:

					COMPUTER (V.O)
			...two... one...

					RIKER
			Fire!

	she hits the appropriate controls now and

61   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	fires a heretofore unseen, unimagined blast of crimson
	energy field from the leading edge of the nacelles,
	fairly enveloping the Mondor in a huge, daunting shaft
	of red light, accompanied by a ghostly ROAR and now

62   INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE - GEORDI

	looks up from his work in the weapons bay, shouts at
	Grebnedlog:

					GEORDI
			Now!

	Grebnedlog pulls the weapons lever but suddenly, the
	entire bridge is awash with a BRIGHT RED LIGHT.

					GEORDI
			Oh no! Too late!

					REGINOD
			We have fired! They will be
			destroyed.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          60.

62   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			But they used the crimson
			force-field --

	He looks toward the weapons bay and now it emits a low
	GROAN. Grebnedlog looks at the weapons meters, reacts
	with a sag as he realizes:

					GREBNEDLOG
			It did not shoot.

					GEORDI
			Their crimson force-field disarmed
			us.

					REGINOD
				(re the Enterprise;
				 awed)
			They are smart.

					GEBNEDLOG
			We are not strong.

63   INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER (OPTICAL)

	gives the final warning as he stands before the
	viewscreen:

					RIKER
			Drop your shields and let us
			transport Lieutenant La Forge
			immediately.

	Grebnedlog waves a trembling hand to a minion who pulls
	a switch.

					DATA
			Shields are down.

					RIKER
			Transporter Room. One to beam
			to the bridge.

	Geordi immediately DEMATERIALIZES on the viewscreen. A
	beat later, he MATERIALIZES beside Riker, turns to his
	officer at CONN:

					RIKER
			Set heading for Starbase
			five one five. Warp nine.

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          61.

64   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	streaks off at warp nine as we GO TO

64A  INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER

	stands before the viewscreen where Grebnedleg appears,
	truly humbled.:

					RIKER
			We leave you in peace.

					GREBNEDLOG
			We want to be strong.

					RIKER
			Weapons alone do not create
			strength. You must learn
			restraint.

					GREBNEDLOG
			Yes. We will learn restraint.
			Then we will be strong.

	Riker reacts to that with a sigh.

					RIKER
			Off.

	The viewscreen goes dark as Geordi steps up:

					GEORDI
			What was that red blast?

					RIKER
			Hydrogen exhaust through the
			Bussard collectors. Harmless,
			but a nice light show.

					GEORDI
			Very impressive.

					RIKER
			Did you disable their photons?

					GEORDI
			Just in time. That's why you're
			all standing here...

64B  EXT. STARBASE FIVE-ONE-FIVE - ESTABLISHING

	The medical center

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          62.

65   INT. STARBASE FIVE-ONE-FIVE SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD

	stirs now, his eyes slowly fluttering open. A beat.
	He's alive. And then he scowls as he grumbles:

					PICARD
			What in the hell are you doing
			here?

65A  ANGLE - PULASKI

	stands over him, pulling her surgical mask down,
	snapping her gloves off smartly with:

					PULASKI
			Saving your life.

					PICARD
			Oh come on. This is a routine
			procedure. Quite commonplace.

					PULASKI
			True. But you are not a
			commonplace man. You'll be out
			of recovery in four hours.

					PICARD
			I didn't want you involved in
			this.

					PULASKI
			You're welcome.

	He regards her obliquely. Then:

					PICARD
			If you're here... the entire crew
			must know...

					PULASKI
			You're still the captain.
			Invincible.

					PICARD
			Thank you.

	She gives him a reassuring wink now as we GO TO:

66   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	cruises in orbit above Starbase five one five while

          STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE          63.

67   INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER

	is in command position, Data, Worf, Geordi, Troi, and
	Wesley all in their respective positions; the
	engineering station is up. The turbolift doors open
	and Picard steps out. A round of applause erupts, and
	Picard glares at them gruffly:

					PICARD
			I beg your pardon.

	They fall silent. Geordi looks at Worf, comments:

					GEORDI
			Looks like things are back to
			normal...

	Picard walks down to his chair, stands before it. A
	beat. Then he announces:

					PICARD
			I'm pleased to report that Ensign
			Crusher's Starfleet exam results
			will enable him to continue with
			his studies on board the
			Enterprise. Furthermore, any
			rumors of my brush with death
			are greatly exaggerated. Is that
			clear?

					RIKER
			Yes, sir.

					PICARD
			Good. Set the course for Epsilon
			Sector.
				(to Wesley)
			Warp five, Ensign.

	Picard assumes his command position now and

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Engage.

68   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	warps out of orbit as we

									FADE OUT:

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END