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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Next Phase"
#40275-224
Written by
Ronald D. Moore
Directed by
David Carson
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1992 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
MARCH 15, 1992
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Next Phase"
CAST
PICARD MIROK
RIKER VAREL
DATA PAREM
BEVERLY
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
Non-Speaking
N.D. ROMULANS
CHIEF BROSSMER
RO
ENSIGN McDOWELL
Non-Speaking
ENSIGN SOUSA
N.D. ENGINEERS
N.D. NURSES
SICKBAY PATIENTS
SUPERNUMERARIES
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 03/15/92 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Next Phase"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM ROMULAN SCIENCE SHIP
TRANSPORTER ROOM
CORRIDOR SHUTTLECRAFT
SICKBAY
BEVERLY'S OFFICE
ENGINEERING
TEN FORWARD
SHUTTLEBAY
ROMULAN SCIENCE SHIP
ENGINE ROOM
SHUTTLECRAFT
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 03/19/92 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Next Phase"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
MUON MEW-ahn
*"mew" like the sound a kitten makes
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Next Phase"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship at warp.
2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
PICARD, DATA, and TROI at their stations. ENSIGN
McDOWELL is at tactical. The ship is on YELLOW ALERT
and there is a sense of urgency in the air.
PICARD
Time, Mister Data?
DATA
We will be within transporter
range in three minutes twenty-one
seconds.
MCDOWELL
(off console)
I've finally established audio
contact with the Romulan ship.
Picard moves to tactical and gestures to McDowell, who
then works the console. We HEAR THE VOICE of a ROMULAN
OFFICER. The transmission is GARBLED and filled with
STATIC.
ROMULAN COM VOICE
(garbled)
... main power failing... no way
to... any ship...
PICARD
(to com)
Romulan ship, this is the
Enterprise. We are en route to
your position.
ROMULAN COM VOICE
(garbled)
... Enterprise... critical that
you... core breach imminent...
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
They exchange looks. No one has fully heard the
tranmission.
PICARD
Repeat your last transmission.
No answer. Picard looks a question to McDowell.
MCDOWELL
Sorry, Captain. They've stopped
transmitting.
PICARD
(to com)
Bridge to Commander Riker.
INTERCUT:
3 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
RIKER and WORF are standing near the platform. GEORDI
and RO ENTER, carrying large tool kits. Everyone has
tricorders and phasers. CHIEF BROSSMER, a woman in
her forties, is standing behind the console.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - TEASER 3.
3 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(to com)
Riker here.
PICARD
Number One... transport to the
Romulan vessel as soon as we're
in range.
RIKER
Aye, sir.
(to others)
No weapons. We don't want them
to think they're under attack.
They turn over their phasers to Brossmer. Ro and Worf
are reluctant.
RO
(under her breath)
This is not a bright idea.
RIKER
(sharp)
I beg your pardon, Ensign. I
didn't quite catch that.
RO
(stiffly)
Nothing, sir.
They all move up to the transporter pad.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - TEASER 4.
4 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship drops out of warp.
5 NEW ANGLE - ENTERPRISE & ROMULAN SHIP (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise moves alongside a ROMULAN SCIENCE SHIP
which is about half the size of the Enterprise.
CUT TO:
6 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM (OPTICAL)
The engine room is a wreck. There are blown out
consoles, burnt panels, flames, smoke, DEAD BODIES,
etc. The room is smaller than engineering on the
Enterprise and should reflect very different ideas
about engineering design and philosophy than those we
are familiar with. Their engine core is a spherical
device contained within a small chamber which has a
single open hatch.
As crewpeople douse the flames, a male Romulan officer
-- MIROK -- is frantically trying to work a
recalcitrant console along with a woman -- VAREL.
The away team MATERIALIZES in the middle of the room.
The Romulans look at them with astonishment.
RIKER
We're from the Federation Starship
Enterprise. We received your
distress call.
Mirok is somewhat dazed. Geordi and Ro move quickly to
the engine consoles and open their carrying cases while
Worf keeps a wary eye on the Romulans.
MIROK
The Enterprise... ?
Mirok is still trying to get his bearings in this
unexpected situation. But there isn't time to play
around, and Riker takes charge of the situation.
Riker's confident and naturally commanding presence
prompt Mirok to listen to him.
RIKER
That's right. Your message said
you'd suffered a failure in your
engine core.
MIROK
Yes.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - TEASER 5.
6 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(to Riker)
Commander?
7 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Riker moves to him and the Romulans follow. Geordi and
Ro have removed a piece of equipment about the size of
a footlocker from the console. It looks fused and
burnt.
GEORDI
(re: equipment)
It's a pretty strange set-up, but
I think the graviton field
generator has completely
depolarized. We can't fix it,
it has to be replaced.
RIKER
(to Romulans)
Where are your replicators?
VAREL
They are off-line.
Riker looks around quickly.
RIKER
Who's in charge here?
The Romulans exchange glances, then Mirok steps forward
hesitantly.
MIROK
The captain is dead. I'm... the
science officer. Mirok.
RIKER
(urgent)
We'd like to take the generator
back to the Enterprise for
replication.
MIROK
(brief hesitation)
All right.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - TEASER 6.
7 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Geordi, you and Ro.
They nod and then wrestle the graviton generator away
from the console. Riker and Mirok move to a different
console.
GEORDI
(hits combadge)
La Forge to Brossmer. Two people,
one piece of equipment to beam
aboard.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir.
Ro, Geordi, and the generator begin to DEMATERIALIZE...
then something goes wrong... their images FUZZ and
SPARK strangely.
8 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Brossmer is struggling to bring them aboard... STRANGE
SHAPES and EFFECTS dance on the transporter pad.
It's unlike any transporter effect we've seen before.
BROSSMER
(frustrated)
What the hell...
(urgent, to com)
Engineering, I need more power
to the primary energizing coil.
More EFFECTS on the stage. Brossmer keeps working,
but she can't get anywhere.
BROSSMER
Brossmer to Commander Riker. I'm
losing them -- I have to abort.
They should be returning to your
coordinates.
The EFFECTS STOP on the stage.
INTERCUT:
9 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM
Riker and Worf wait for them to reappear... nothing.
After a long beat...
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - TEASER 7.
9 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(urgent, to com)
Chief, they're not here. Do you
have them?
BROSSMER
No, sir.
Beat.
RIKER
Where are they?
Long beat as Brossmer works. Finally...
BROSSMER
(in shock)
I can't locate their patterns.
(beat)
We've lost them, sir. They're
gone.
Off Riker's shocked expression.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT ONE 8.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
10 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Only a few minutes have passed since the end of the
Teaser. Picard and Troi are reacting to the loss of Ro
& Geordi.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
I'm sorry, Captain. But there's
just nothing left to retrieve.
PICARD
Begin a level one diagnostic.
All transporter systems to remain
off-line until further notice.
(to Data)
Could they have materialized
somewhere else?
DATA
(off console)
Negative, Captain. Sensors are
unable to find them within
transporter range.
PICARD
(to Troi)
Counselor?
Troi waits a beat and silently "listens"... but her
expression is grim. She shakes her head. That seems
to seal the fate of their friends. But there is no
time to mourn.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Riker to Enterprise.
PICARD
Go ahead, Number One.
INTERCUT:
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT ONE 9.
11 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM
Riker is standing off by himself in the engine room.
He has to put aside his feelings for now to deal with
the emergency.
RIKER
Captain, we're still looking at
a core breach unless we can
fashion a new graviton generator.
I need...
(beat, then bluntly)
I need replacement personnel, sir.
11A RESUME BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS
Picard thinks for a beat.
PICARD
Mister Data, you may continue your
diagnostic of the transporter
system later. Take a shuttlecraft
and two more engineers to the
Romulan ship.
DATA
(on the move)
Aye, sir.
Data EXITS.
PICARD
(to McDowell)
Mister McDowell, alert the main
shuttlebay to have all available
ships and pilots standing by in
case we need them.
MCDOWELL
Aye, sir.
PICARD
(to Conn Officer)
Lay in a course to take us away
from the Romulan ship at Warp One
in case it explodes.
The Conn Officer nods and works the console. Orders
given, Picard moves back to the command area and sits
down. Hold a beat on his expression as he takes a beat
to reflect on his lost crewmen.
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT ONE 10.
12 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & ROMULAN SHIP (OPTICAL)
The two ships as seen before.
13 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM
Riker moves to where Mirok and Varel are working on a
console. The atmosphere is tense and urgent.
MIROK
(worried, off console)
Pressure in the containment
chamber has increased fifteen
melakols in the last two minutes.
RIKER
(to Mirok)
What can we do to stop the
overload?
MIROK
(frustrated)
Most of the conduits were damaged
in the explosion. I can't even
access the central computer.
14 NEW ANGLE
As Worf and an N.D. Romulan ENTER through a doorway.
They both look dirty and bedraggled.
WORF
(to Riker)
Emergency bulkheads have sealed
this section from the rest of the
ship. There is no way to gain
access to the bridge or other
control centers.
RIKER
Survivors?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT ONE 11.
14 CONTINUED:
WORF
Readings indicate at least
seventy-three Romulans are still
alive.
VAREL
(shocked)
Seventy-three...
Suddenly there is an ALARM from the console. Mirok and
Varel quickly examine the readings and are horrified
at the result.
MIROK
The pressure has jumped two
hundred melakols!
VAREL
I've lost control of the
containment chamber!
MIROK
(stunned)
It's going to implode...
Riker takes charge of the situation. The Romulans
accept his leadership without question at this point.
RIKER
We'll have to dump the entire
engine core. Do you have an
auto-eject system?
MIROK
Yes, but it's not functioning.
I'll have to do it manually.
Mirok runs over to a bulkhead near the chamber and
rips open a panel. He begins frantically working
controls within the panel.
RIKER
Worf, you two seal the chamber.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT ONE 12.
14 CONTINUED: (2)
Worf and the N.D. run inside the chamber and begin
pulling out optical conduit and power leads connecting
the sphere-shaped chamber to the walls.
VAREL
(off console)
Implosion will occur in one minute
five seconds...
As the following dialog takes place, Worf and the N.D.
finish disconnecting the conduits and run out of the
chamber. They start to close the door leading to the
chamber, but there is a large beam blocking the way.
They struggle to move it, but it's too heavy.
RIKER
(hits combadge)
Riker to Enterprise. We're
preparing to jettison the engine
core. We'll need you to extend
shields once it clears the hull.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Understood, Number One. We'll
stand by for your signal.
WORF
Commander!
Riker turns and sees the difficulty they're having with
the beam and the door. He and Varel rush over and help
them move the beam...
RIKER
(as he pulls on beam,
to Varel)
Time?
VAREL
Thirty seconds...
The beam finally crashes to the deck. They try to pull
the doors shut... they get halfway, then jam. Mirok
sits up.
MIROK
Ready!
RIKER
(straining against door)
Stay there! Eject the chamber
on my order!
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT ONE 13.
14 CONTINUED: (3)
But it's futile... they can't move it at all. A tense
beat and then suddenly we HEAR DATA'S VOICE.
DATA
(o.c.)
Excuse me, sir.
15 NEW ANGLE
Revealing Data and TWO N.D. ENGINEERS now standing in
the engine room. Riker and Worf step aside as Data
moves quickly to the jammed doors. With a burst of
android strength, he PULLS the doors together and seals
the chamber.
RIKER
(to Mirok)
Now!
Mirok works a control and the ship SHAKES ONCE as the
chamber is ejected. The lights go OUT.
RIKER
(hits combadge)
Enterprise, extend shields!
CUT TO:
16 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & ROMULAN SHIP (OPTICAL)
The two ships are side by side. Suddenly, there is a
flash of LIGHT from the bottom of the Romulan ship and
an EXPLOSION a short distance away from the ship. But
the blast from the explosion is kept away from the two
ships by the shields of the Enterprise, which now
surround both vessels. (It is the explosion which
makes the shields visible.)
17 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM
As before. The room SHAKES slightly then stops.
Everyone is standing still in the gloomy darkness.
After a beat, Riker turns to Mirok and a slow smile
spreads across his face.
RIKER
(to Mirok)
Well... we're still here.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT ONE 14.
17 CONTINUED:
MIROK
(smiles)
Yes.
It's a unique moment... Starfleet and Romulan
crewmembers standing side by side, celebrating a joint
victory.
CUT TO:
18 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship hangs in space.
19 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard is listening to Riker's report.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
We'll have a complete power survey
done within the hour... we'll
probably have to supply them with
energy for life support... and
they're definitely going to need
a new engine core to get home
again.
PICARD
(to com)
Understood, Commander. Keep us
informed of your efforts. Picard
out.
(to McDowell)
I'll be in sickbay.
MCDOWELL
Aye, sir.
Picard EXITS.
CUT TO:
20 INT. CORRIDOR
Picard ENTERS from a turbolift. He walks along the
corridor, lost in thought... his expression is grim and
deeply disturbed. Follow him for a moment... then as
he rounds a corner CAMERA DROPS OFF ON Ensign Ro, who
is sitting near a corridor intersection.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT ONE 15.
20 CONTINUED:
Ro is just waking up... she's groggy and disoriented.
She puts a hand to her head and rubs her eyes for a
moment, trying to clear the cobwebs. N.D. CREWMEN pass
her, without seeing her. (NOTE: From this point on,
no one can see Ro. She is invisible to everyone
aboard the ship.)
Ro stands up and looks around... finally decides that
something has gone wrong, although she's not sure
exactly what. She hits her communicator.
RO
(to com)
Ensign Ro to bridge.
(beat)
This is Ensign Ro, reporting in...
I'm in section twenty-three baker,
near sickbay.
Still nothing. She frowns at the recalcitrant
communicator... then she suddenly gets dizzy... she
shakes her head and the dizziness goes away.
RO
(to herself)
Sickbay...
Ro walks along the empty corridor toward sickbay.
21 NEW ANGLE
As Ro reaches sickbay. When she gets to the door, she
pulls up short as it refuses to open. Before she can
reach out to touch the door in puzzlement, it suddenly
OPENS and a N.D. CREWPERSON ENTERS the corridor from
sickbay. He barrels past her without a glance. (To
Ro, he seems rude, but again, the Crewman never sees
her.) Ro gives him an irritated look and goes through
the still open door before it closes behind her.
22 INT. SICKBAY - CONTINUOUS
Ro ENTERS. N.D. NURSES & PATIENTS go about their
business without noticing Ro standing near the doorway.
She tries to get their attention.
RO
I need some help.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT ONE 16.
22 CONTINUED:
No response.
RO
(louder)
Excuse me?
Still nothing. What's going on here? Ro moves toward
Beverly's office to see if she can get someone to
listen to her over there.
23 INT. BEVERLY'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Picard and BEVERLY are in the middle of an argument in
the office. Ro pauses in the doorway, naturally
reluctant to interrupt the conversation.
BEVERLY
The transporter could've beamed
them somewhere else... the Romulan
ship, another deck of the
Enterprise...
PICARD
(gently)
We've already checked those
possibilities.
(beat)
The preliminary findings indicate
there was a radiation surge from
the Romulan engine core which
disrupted the signal. They never
rematerialized.
BEVERLY
We should check again, there might
be something we overlooked and---
PICARD
(gentle, but firm)
We've done all we can, Beverly.
Beverly takes a beat... then reluctantly agrees.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT ONE 17.
23 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
You're right. I just... hate
making out death certificates.
(beat)
Did Ensign Ro have any family?
Ro is shocked -- they think she's dead!
RO
Captain, I'm right here.
PICARD
(to Beverly)
None that I know of, but I'll
check with the Bajoran Liaison
Office.
RO
(yells)
I'm not dead!
BEVERLY
(resigned)
I'll have the official reports
ready within the hour.
Beverly sits at the desk... the weariness of losing too
many shipmates is clear on her face.
24 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Picard turns to leave Beverly alone. Ro steps directly
in his path, determined to put a stop to this for once
and for all.
RO
Captain, I don't know what's going
on --
But Picard is still unaware of her presence and he
walks straight toward her... and then WALKS THROUGH
Ro. She is completely shocked. Picard continues on
his way and Beverly doesn't know anything has happened.
Ro looks down at her body in utter disbelief. Off her
shocked expression...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT TWO 18.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
25 INT. BEVERLY'S OFFICE (OPTICAL)
Continuous from Act One. Ro is trying to get her
bearings in this bizarre situation. She can't believe
what just happened with Picard. Beverly is still
sitting at her desk, working at a terminal. Ro tries
once again to get her attention.
RO
Doctor Crusher? Doctor?
Beverly ignores her completely. Ro's frustration
mounts.
RO
I'm right here...
Beverly placidly continues working on her report. Ro's
temper snaps.
RO
(shouts)
Dammnit, Doctor!
Ro tries to slam her hand on the desk to get Beverly's
attention... but her hand simply PASSES THROUGH the
desk. Ro yanks her hand away in shock. She looks at
her hands in amazement... Ro claps them together...
they seem solid enough to her. She makes a fist and
smacks it into the palm of the other hand... no
problem. Ro touches the desk gently. She can touch
the surface if she doesn't press too hard. (Think
of objects as if they were made of Jello -- you can
touch it, but if you push too hard, you go right
through it.)
26 NEW ANGLE
As Ro moves around the desk behind Beverly. She leans
over Beverly to see what she's doing on the terminal.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT TWO 19.
27 CLOSE ON TERMINAL (OPTICAL)
The terminal was showing a picture of Geordi and some
biographical information. It quickly changes to a
picture of Ro and her bio information. Beverly reaches
out and touches a control... the word "DECEASED"
suddenly appears at the bottom of the file.
28 RESUME SCENE
As Ro reacts to this. Beverly is resigned... a little
sad. Ro is starting to come to the frightening
realization that this is all very real.
CUT TO:
29 OMITTED
30 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM
The atmosphere is more orderly and calm than before.
N.D. ROMULANS and N.D. STARFLEET CREWMEN are moving
busily about the room in the b.g. hauling equipment,
fixing consoles, etc. Mirok is seated at one of the
consoles as Riker stands next to him. The lights are
DIM.
MIROK
(to Riker)
We're ready, Commander.
RIKER
(hits combadge)
Riker to Enterprise. Begin power
transfer.
30A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & ROMULAN SHIP (OPTICAL)
A BEAM OF ENERGY leaps out from a spot on the
Enterprise and makes a connection to a point on the
Romulan ship near the engines.
30B INT. ROMULAN SHIP
As before. Suddenly the LIGHTS BRIGHTEN and there is a
HUM of power as several monitors and consoles come back
to life.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT TWO 19A.
30B CONTINUED:
MIROK
(off console)
The power flow is consistent at
four hundred Kolems... no
fluctuations in frequency.
Mirok looks up at Riker and smiles.
MIROK
The main power grid is on-line.
Riker returns the smile and even gives Mirok a friendly
clap on the shoulder. The cooperation and friendliness
in the room is a welcome change from normal
Federation/Romulan relations.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard to Riker.
Riker takes a few steps away from Mirok for a little
privacy.
RIKER
(to com)
Riker here. The power transfer
appears stable at this end,
Captain.
INTERCUT:
31 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard and Data are at one of the aft stations.
PICARD
Good. What is the status of their
engine replacement?
RIKER
Engineering is modifying one of
our subspace resonators to act
as a new engine core. It won't
do more than warp two, but it'll
get them home.
PICARD
Very well.
DATA
Captain...
Picard turns to him.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT TWO 20.
31 CONTINUED:
DATA
The diagnostic of the transporter
system shows an anomalous energy
fluctuation. I will need to
inspect the imaging scanners in
transporter room three.
PICARD
By all means.
He starts to move off, when Data stops him.
DATA
Captain --
Picard turns back.
DATA
I have a personal favor to ask.
(beat)
I considered Commander La Forge
to be my best friend. I feel it
is my responsibility to plan and
conduct the memorial service.
May I have your permission to do
so?
Picard is moved by this reminder of the tragedy -- and
by Data's desire to commemorate his friend.
PICARD
Permission granted. Make
whatever arrangements you find
appropriate.
DATA
Thank you, sir.
Data moves off toward the turbolift, leaving a somber
Picard behind.
32 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM
Worf approaches Riker, clearly upset.
WORF
Commander...
RIKER
Problem, Mister Worf?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT TWO 21.
32 CONTINUED:
WORF
The Romulans want a computer.
We cannot give them access to
Federation technology. It is an
unacceptable security risk.
Riker thinks for a moment.
RIKER
What about a computer from thirty
or forty years ago... one the
Romulans are already familiar
with?
Worf ponders this.
WORF
That would be satisfactory.
RIKER
Check with the Enterprise to see
what's available. But be sure
your security concerns are
addressed before we install it.
WORF
Aye, sir.
(beat)
Thank you.
33 OMITTED
34 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is wandering through the room.
RO (o.c.)
La Forge...
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT TWO 22-24.
34A OMITTED
35 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
as Geordi whirls around to find Ro standing there.
GEORDI
(relieved)
Ro -- boy, am I glad to see you...
and I'm really glad you can see
me.
Geordi waves his hand in front of an N.D. Engineer's
face to no effect.
GEORDI
It's like I'm here, but... I'm
not here.
He looks questioningly at Ro.
RO
No one can see me either.
GEORDI
I can't figure out what happened.
One minute we were transporting
from the Romulan ship... the next
I just... woke up in the arboretum
with a splitting headache.
(beat)
Can you... pass through things
like bulkheads --
RO
(nods)
Tables, people... yeah.
Geordi thinks for a moment... then tentatively reaches
out his hand toward Ro... she does the same and they
press on each other's palm for a moment.
GEORDI
Well... we're solid enough to each
other.
Geordi looks around in frustration. Ro smiles...
She's more accepting of their situation than he is.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT TWO 25.
35 CONTINUED:
RO
Not what you expected, is it?
GEORDI
What do you mean?
RO
This. Death.
GEORDI
(shocked)
What?
RO
We're dead, Geordi.
Geordi takes a moment to take that in. He looks at
Ro as if she's lost her mind. He gives a forced laugh.
GEORDI
Is that some kind of joke?
RO
Our patterns were lost in a
transporter malfunction... we
never rematerialized after leaving
the Romulan ship.
Geordi's mind recoils from even considering the
possibility... he takes a couple of steps back.
GEORDI
Wait a minute...
(clearly)
What are you saying... that we're
spirits?
RO
Spirits... souls... my people call
them Borhyas. Whatever term you
want to use -- we're it.
Geordi is clearly having trouble buying this.
GEORDI
(disbelieving)
My uniform... my VISOR... you're
saying I'm a blind ghost with
clothes?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT TWO 26.
35 CONTINUED: (2)
RO
I don't have all the answers...
I've never been dead before.
Geordi stops short, as does Ro.
GEORDI
We are not dead.
RO
According to Doctor Crusher, we
died in a transporter malfunction
at fourteen-thirty hours.
(beat)
I watched her make out the death
certificates.
Even though he doesn't really believe they're dead,
hearing about his death certificate gives Geordi pause
for a moment. Ro is trying to figure out the
appropriate thing to do in this circumstance.
RO
We should make peace with our
former lives, that's what I was
taught... say goodbye to the
people we're leaving behind --
GEORDI
(firm)
No. You may be ready for the
afterlife, but I'm not.
RO
I don't see that we have much
choice.
(beat)
When I was growing up, I never
gave much thought to all the talk
about Borhyas... I figured it was
just superstition, passed on to
children. But now...
GEORDI
Fine. You go make peace with
yourself. I'm going to
transporter room three to find
a way out of this... situation.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT TWO 27.
35 CONTINUED: (3)
Geordi turns and EXITS THROUGH the wall. Ro sadly
shakes her head at Geordi's inability to accept their
situation.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT THREE 28.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
36 OMITTED
36A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship hangs in space.
36AA INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
Data is with Chief Brossmer, scanning the room with
a tricorder; Geordi stands near them, listening.
BROSSMER
I didn't have any warning that
something would go wrong, sir.
Suddenly... their patterns just
weren't there.
DATA
I believe the cause of the
accident may be related to the
explosion on the Romulan ship.
Geordi's ears perk up.
GEORDI
Oh, yeah?
BROSSMER
But... that happened before we
even arrived...
DATA
In all likelihood the explosion
damaged the Romulan cloaking
device, causing it to discharge
chroniton particles.
(sweeping with
tricorder)
I am detecting a chroniton field
in here.
GEORDI
A chroniton field...
BROSSMER
If the particles were produced
on the Romulan ship, why are you
detecting them here?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT THREE 29.
36AA CONTINUED:
GEORDI
The transporter beam --
DATA
I suspect they travelled through
the transporter beam. That may
have been the cause of Geordi
and Ro's death.
Data snaps the tricorder off, turns to go.
DATA
I will go to the Romulan ship and
see if I can discover the source
of these emissions.
BROSSMER
Commander -- are these chronitons
dangerous?
DATA
They pose no danger to Humans --
but some of the ship's systems
may be affected by prolonged
exposure. When I return I will
devise a method to eradicate them.
Data heads for the door, followed by Geordi, who is
now excited. Geordi automatically touches his
communicator.
GEORDI
La Forge to Ensign Ro...
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 30-32.
36AA CONTINUED: (2)
Then he glances down, realizes that won't work, either.
He follows Data out the door of the transporter room.
36B OMITTED
37 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
McDowell at the aft science station, N.D. Crewmembers at
the other positions. Ro ENTERS with an N.D. Crewman
from the turbolift. Her attitude is serene. She seems
genuinely content for the moment, as if a burden has
been lifted from her shoulders. A smile comes more
easily to her than we've seen before.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT THREE 33.
37 CONTINUED:
RO
(to Crewman)
Thanks for the ride.
Ro looks around the bridge as if taking a last look
around. She addresses the crew.
RO
I'm here to say goodbye.
No one responds, of course. She moves to the conn
position. The N.D. CONN OFFICER taps in a few commands
on the console... then gets up to go check something
at the aft science stations. Ro takes the opportunity
to gently run her hand over the console as she
silently says goodbye to this life. She looks up
as Riker and Picard ENTER from the turbolift and head
for the ready room.
RIKER
(to Picard, on the move)
There are a lot of what appear
to be experimental engine
components lying around over
there. I'd say they were testing
some new warp drive design and
it blew up in their faces.
Ro follows Picard and Riker through the doors as they
OPEN.
38 INT. READY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Picard, Riker, and Ro ENTER.
PICARD
(nods)
That would explain why they're
this far away from Romulan
space... to avoid being picked
up on Federation long-range
scanners.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 34.
38 CONTINUED:
RIKER
We should have an engine core
ready for them by nineteen hundred
hours.
Picard nods and Riker turns to leave.
PICARD
Commander... there will be a
memorial service at twenty-three
hundred hours this evening.
Mister Data is making the
arrangements.
That's news to both Riker and Ro. Riker's expression
becomes more somber while Ro looks intrigued.
RIKER
I'll be there.
RO
Me, too.
RIKER
In fact... I might like to say
a few words.
PICARD
(acknowledging)
You knew La Forge longer than
any of us.
RIKER
Actually, I was thinking more
of Ensign Ro...
Picard reacts with surprise.
RO
(surprised)
Me?
PICARD
Coordinate with Mister Data.
Riker nods and EXITS. To his back --
RO
Wait a minute... what are you
going to say about me?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 35.
38 CONTINUED: (2)
But he's gone. Picard sits at his desk and begins
working on his monitor. Ro pauses... then approaches.
She's trying to wrap up the loose ends in her life and
it doesn't come easily for her.
RO
Captain...
She stops, takes a deep breath. She is clearly
struggling with this.
RO
I don't believe this... I'm
dead... you can't hear me... and
I'm still intimidated by you.
She gives a rueful smile, looks at the preoccupied
man... the man who gave her a chance.
RO
I just wanted to say... thank you.
For trusting me when no one else
would.
A long beat as she watches Picard for a moment... then
she turns at the sound of Geordi's VOICE.
GEORDI (o.c.)
There you are.
39 OMITTED
40 NEW ANGLE
Revealing that Geordi has just entered.
GEORDI
(to Picard)
Excuse me, Captain.
(to Ro)
Data is taking the next shuttle
back to the Romulan ship and we've
got to be on it.
RO
Why?
GEORDI
I think we'll find the answer to
what's happened to us over there.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 36-38.
40 CONTINUED:
RO
Why can't you just accept---
GEORDI
(urgent)
Look, if you're right and we're
dead this won't make any
difference. But if I'm right,
then we're still alive... and I'm
going to need your help.
She hesitates... then shrugs, accepting this. They
start toward the door.
40A OMITTED
41 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & SHUTTLECRAFT (OPTICAL)
The shuttlecraft leaves the ship.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 39.
42 INT. SHUTTLECRAFT
Worf and Data are at the controls, Geordi and Ro are
sitting on some pieces of equipment in the back.
DATA
Lieutenant, I am planning a
memorial service for Commander
La Forge and Ensign Ro. I would
like you to participate.
Worf gives him an uncomfortable look.
WORF
What kind of service?
DATA
Captain Picard asked me to arrange
a ceremony that is appropriate.
I have given a great deal of
thought as to what is
"appropriate" in this instance.
Worf notices something on the console.
WORF
Sir, shuttlecraft four has not
cleared the Romulan ship yet.
DATA
Hold position here.
A beat as they work instruments.
GEORDI
This is a little weird...
listening to them plan our
funeral...
DATA
I find that I am having difficulty
deciding what kind of service to
have. Do you have any
suggestions?
Worf reflects on this.
WORF
Human custom is to conduct a
solemn, dignified service in which
the dead are praised by their
friends and loved ones.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 40.
42 CONTINUED:
DATA
Ensign Ro was Bajoran. Her
beliefs should be reflected as
well. But their death rituals
are quite complicated.
RO
Please... not the Death Chant...
WORF
The Bajorn Death Chant is over
two hours long...
DATA
I am not certain that either Human
or Bajoran rites are fitting...
and I have researched the
funerary customs of over five
thousand cultures to no avail...
Worf gives him a curious look, then reacts to his
console.
WORF
Shuttlecraft four has cleared...
DATA
Resume course.
They work for a brief beat at their instruments.
DATA
In almost all societies it is
traditional to say a ritual
farewell to those you call
friends.
(beat)
I did not know what a friend was
until I met Geordi. He spoke to
me as though I were Human... he
treated me no differently from
anyone else. He accepted me for
what I am. And that, I have
learned, is friendship. I would
like this service to reflect that
friendship.
(beat)
But I do not know how to say
goodbye.
RO
Sounds almost Human, doesn't he?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 40A.
42 CONTINUED: (2)
Geordi studies his friend with compassion.
WORF
Commander, I am not the proper
person to advise you.
DATA
Why not?
WORF
(hesitant)
I am very happy for Commander La
Forge. He has crossed to... that
which is beyond. For a Klingon,
this is a joyful time... a friend
has died in the line of duty...
and he has earned a place among
the honored dead. It is not a
time to mourn.
Data gives him a glance... a little puzzled... then
turns back to his instruments.
DATA
Begin docking procedure.
GEORDI
Data -- I appreciate the
sentiment. But you're a little
premature. I don't intend to get
commemorated before my time.
Ro shrugs, still more convinced than he that they have
already died.
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 41.
43 OMITTED
44 INT. ROMULAN ENGINE ROOM (OPTICAL)
Data is with Mirok and Varel. In the b.g., a MALE
ROMULAN is seated in a chair within earshot, but he
appears to be watching a console. Worf is supervising
the placement of equipment they have carried in the
shuttle.
Geordi is off to one side, his HEAD INSERTED into an
ODD LOOKING CONSOLE as Ro observes. Data has his
tricorder in hand, and is scanning the area. Mirok
is being diplomatic, but underneath he is disconcerted
by Data's actions.
MIROK
I'm afraid I fail to see the point
of this investigation, Commander.
DATA
Chroniton emissions may have been
responsible for the accident which
claimed the lives of our officers.
VAREL
A most regrettable event, of
course...
DATA
Was your cloaking device damaged
in the explosion?
There is a brief hesitation.
MIROK
All our systems were damaged.
Including the cloaking device.
DATA
Then that explains the chroniton
fields I am detecting here.
(beat, as he scans)
For your own safety, it is
important to eliminate the
emissions.
VAREL
Our safety?
DATA
There is no way to predict what
might happen when the chronitons
interact with the new engine core.

STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT THREE 41A.
44 CONTINUED:
Data moves around the room, sweeping with the
tricorder. Mirok and Varel exchange uneasy glances.
44A ON GEORDI AND RO
Geordi removes his head from the console and beckons to
Ro.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/19/92 - ACT THREE 42.
44A CONTINUED:
GEORDI
I've never seen anything like
this. There's something in there
that looks like a molecular phase
inverter...
RO
What's that?
GEORDI
It's supposed to change the
structure of matter so it can...
pass through "normal" matter and
energy... hey, wait a minute...
Geordi moves to take a new look at the console. Ro
follows him, curious about where this is leading.
GEORDI
A few years back, we got
intelligence reports that the
Klingons were working on combining
a phase inverter and a cloaking
device. In theory, they believed
that a... phased ship could hide
anywhere... even inside a planet.
And conventional weapons would
be useless against it.
RO
How far did they get in their
research?
GEORDI
It never got out of the
preliminary stages... there were
several accidents. The Romulans
might be pursuing the same
technology -- trying to combine
an inverter and a cloaking device.
(looks at console)
If this is the prototype...
RO
(realizing)
Then that would explain the
explosion... the chroniton
fields...
GEORDI
And us.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT THREE 42A.
44A CONTINUED: (2)
RO
You mean we're -- cloaked?
GEORDI
Not just cloaked -- phased...
our molecular structure altered
so we have no substance.
Ro suddenly realizes something.
RO
That means we're not dead.
GEORDI
It also means -- there might be
a way we can decloak.
Data has now approached the console; checks tricorder
readings.
DATA
The field emissions are
particularly strong here.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 43.
44A CONTINUED: (2)
MIROK
You can be assured that the
emissions will be eliminated
before the engine core is
replaced.
WORF
(from far side of room)
Commander, may I speak with you?
Data moves off to talk with Worf. Varel turns to
Mirok. Geordi and Ro listen.
VAREL
When they come back... they're
going to discover the interphase
generator.
Mirok thinks for a moment.
MIROK
Is their power transfer beam still
at full intensity?
VAREL
Yes. It will be until we are
ready to switch to internal power.
Mirok makes the decision.
MIROK
We will set up a muon feedback
wave inside the transfer beam.
The particles will accumulate in
their dilithium chamber. When
they go to warp speed, their
engines will explode.
Varel nods and turns to a console; Mirok walks away.
Ro and Geordi turn to each other, shocked.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT THREE 43A.
44A CONTINUED: (3)
GEORDI
We have to get back to the
Enterprise and warn them.
RO
How?
GEORDI
I don't know, but we have to find
a way. Come on.
They EXIT.
45 OMITTED
46 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
As Geordi and Ro leave, the seated Male Romulan seen
earlier turns around and WATCHES THEM LEAVE. After
a beat, he stands up and follows Ro & Geordi by walking
THROUGH THE CHAIR. He is in the same strange state as
they are -- the other Romulans are unaware of him as
he silently heads after our characters.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT FOUR 44.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
47 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & ROMULAN SHIP (OPTICAL)
The two ships are side by side, and still connected by
the beam of energy.
48 INT. CORRIDOR
CLOSE ON doors, which clearly say "Shuttlebay Two".
The doors OPEN and THREE N.D. CREWMEMBERS walk out into
the corridor... then the Phased Romulan -- hereafter
referred to as PAREM -- steps out into the corridor.
He pauses for a moment and looks around... then heads
off in search of Ro & Geordi.
CUT TO:
49 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING
Geordi and Ro are looking at various monitors in
Geordi's office. They're worried by what they see.
RO
The muon feedback wave's not
showing up on any of the engine
displays.
GEORDI
(frustrated)
The Romulans must be hiding it
in the sensor return signal.
Unless someone runs a level three
diagnostic, they'll never see it.
50 NEW ANGLE
As Ro and Geordi go out into the main area. Data and
Brossmer are working at the pool table.
GEORDI
There has to be a way to warn them
before the ship goes to warp.
Data is puzzled by the readings on the monitor screen.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT FOUR 45.
50 CONTINUED:
DATA
(to Brossmer)
This is puzzling. Three more
chroniton fields have formed
aboard the Enterprise in the last
hour.
Data works at the console for a moment.
GEORDI
(to Ro)
There's no reason why the
interphase device would be
producing new fields aboard this
ship.
DATA
(to Brossmer)
We should begin decontamination
immediately. Run an internal
sensor sweep for the locations
of all chroniton fields on the
Enterprise.
Brossmer moves to work a console. As Brossmer calls
off the following list, Geordi begins to realize what's
going on.
BROSSMER
The following areas are showing
contamination: Sickbay,
transporter room three, main
bridge, captain's ready room,
shuttlebay two, and main
engineering.
GEORDI
Ro, listen to that...
DATA
(puzzled)
I do not understand how these new
fields have formed. No
transporter beam has been active
in any of those areas. And I do
not see that they have anything
in common...
GEORDI
Oh, yes they do...
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/19/92 - ACT FOUR 45A.
50 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
They seem to be appearing at
random.
GEORDI
No, they're not.
(to Ro)
We were in every one of those
locations. Somehow we're
leaving... chroniton footprints
behind us.
DATA
Can you narrow the focus of the
scan to pinpoint the locations?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT FOUR 46.
50 CONTINUED: (3)
BROSSMER
(works)
Not with the internal sensors,
Commander.
DATA
(to Brossmer)
Go to science station two on the
bridge and use the lateral sensor
array to get a more precise
reading. I will modify an anyon
emitter to eliminate the fields
once they have been isolated.
Brossmer nods and EXITS.
GEORDI
(urgent, to Ro)
You go with her and see what the
lateral sensors turn up. I'll
stay here with Data.
RO
Right.
She hurries out after Brossmer.
CUT TO:
51 INT. CORRIDOR NEAR TURBOLIFT
The turbolift doors OPEN and TWO N.D. CREWMEMBERS ENTER
the corridor. After a quick beat, Parem FOLLOWS them
out of the turbolift and into the corridor. He takes a
look around and then heads off down the corridor.
52 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)
Geordi is watching Data finish making adjustments
to an anyon emitter. Data picks up a tricorder and
scans the room.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT FOUR 47.
52 CONTINUED:
Data passes the tricorder over Geordi without pausing.
GEORDI
That's interesting... you're
picking up chroniton readings in
here, but not from me.
Data pauses and makes a few more adjustments to the
tricorder. Geordi cranes his neck around in order to
see the small tricorder screen. Data scans the room
again... finally stopping on one section of wall.
Data moves to that section of wall and Geordi follows.
GEORDI
There's a field in this wall?
Why?
Data picks up the anyon emitter and makes a few
adjustments. Geordi suddenly understands.
GEORDI
(getting excited)
Data, I came through this wall.
I walked right through it when
I came in here...
Data points the anyon emitter at the wall. A SOUND
comes out of the device as he plays it on the wall.
He shuts OFF the device after a moment and then checks
the tricorder again.
GEORI
(over action)
When the phased matter in my body
passed through the wall, it
must've distrupted the wall's
molecular structure... producing
a chroniton field.
Data moves to a new area of wall. Geordi stares at him
in frustration.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT FOUR 48.
52 CONTINUED: (2)
Data activates the device and sprays the wall. Geordi
watches for beat... then gets an idea. Geordi goes
to the pool table as Data SHUTS OFF the device and pulls
out his tricorder. As Data scans, Geordi walks THROUGH
the pool table. Data picks up the reading... is
puzzled... SPRAYS the pool table with the device.
GEORDI
Data, I'm right here... that's
me you're reading...
Geordi continues to walk through the pool table...
each time, Data patiently reads the tricorder and
sprays the field -- but with increasing puzzlement.
GEORDI
Come on... it's me...
CUT TO:
53 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The turbolift doors OPEN and Brossmer and Ro ENTER.
Brossmer moves toward the aft science station and Ro
moves to follow... but Ro suddenly stops short in shock
as she sees...
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT FOUR 49-49A
54 PAREM
Standing on the bridge, leveling his disruptor directly
at Ro.
PAREM
Do not move.
Ro looks around for a moment... unsure if he's really
talking to her.
PAREM
Yes, I can see you.
RO
Who are you?
PAREM
(ignoring her question)
Where is the scientific officer?
(off her look)
The other one like us... the one
who came with you to our ship.
He spoke of a plan to return to
normal.
Ro glances down at the disruptor in Parem's hand.
Parem knows what she's thinking.
PAREM
Yes, this disruptor works. I was
wearing it when I was... changed.
(hard)
Now, where is he?
Ro decides not to push things. She leads him towards a
wall.
CUT TO:
55 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)
Geordi continues trying to get Data's attention without
success.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT FOUR 50.
55 CONTINUED:
Geordi puts his hand all the way through the pool
table over and over again in quick succession.
GEORDI
Stop being so rational... use your
imagination for a change... these
aren't just random patterns...
it's me!
Data is definitely puzzled by the continued obstinance
of these fields. He makes another adjustment to the
anyon emitter and points it at the pool table. He
SPRAYS the pool table again, but this time the invisible
beam accidently HITS Geordi's arm. Geordi recoils as if
hit with a mild electric shock.
GEORDI
Hey, watch where you point that
thing.
He flexes his hand... it feels strange...
GEORDI
Wait a minute, Data... you did
something to me...
He reaches out experimentally and tries to push his
hand through the pool table again. There is resistance
this time... he can't move it through so easily
anymore.
GEORDI
It's not so easy to push through
any more...
Data finishes SPRAYING and scanning in the b.g. as
Geordi starts to put it all together.
GEORDI
That means the molecules in my
hand must have been partially
dephased by the anyon beam...
(getting excited)
Data, if the low-level beam
brought my hand part of the way
back... maybe a high-level beam
would bring me all the way back.
(determined)
I've got to get you to turn up
the beam intensity so that...
Geordi trails off as Data puts down the TECH device.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - 3/15/92 - ACT FOUR 51.
55 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Hey, don't stop now.
Data returns to the pool table and begins to work the
console. Geordi is worried.
GEORDI
(urgent)
No, no, no. Don't give up on
it... it works, I was just
creating more fields. Your
method is fine... just turn up
the intensity...
As Data continues to work... off Geordi's frustration
--
CUT TO:
56 INT. CORRIDOR
Parem is marching Ro through the corridor. Ro leads
him to the Transporter Room doors.
RO
He's in here.
Ro calmly walks toward the doors.
56A INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Ro ENTERS THROUGH the doors. In the brief second
before Parem comes through behind her, Ro whirls around
and HITS him hard just as Parem ENTERS. The blow
catches Parem unaware and he staggers back. She runs
toward the far wall of the transporter room. Parem
recovers quickly and FIRES a disruptor blast at her.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT FOUR 52.
57 ON RO (OPTICAL)
As she runs THROUGH the wall. The disruptor blast just
misses her and goes THROUGH the wall. Parem runs after
her.
58 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING
As before. Data is still working at the pool table.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
Brossmer to Commander Data. I've
just detected a large chroniton
field on deck seventeen. The
field strength is three hundred
percent above the others we've
found.
Data works the console.
GEORDI
(puzzled)
Is that Ro... ?
DATA
(to com)
Acknowledged.
Data picks up his tricorder and anyon emitter as he
heads for the exit. Geordi follows.
CUT TO:
59 INT. CREW QUARTERS #1 (OPTICAL)
A WOMAN, wearing only a towel, is brushing her hair
in front of the mirror.
Ro suddenly runs THROUGH the wall and tears across the
room and leaves o.c. After a beat, Parem comes running
THROUGH the wall, hard on Ro's heels.
The Woman continues to brush her hair...
59A INT. CORRIDOR
Data and Geordi are walking down the corridor. Data
is pointing the tricorder at one wall as they walk...
Geordi is also watching the readouts.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT FOUR 53.
60 INT. CREW QUARTERS #2
A MAN, wearing exercise clothes, is doing push-ups on
the floor.
COMPUTER VOICE
... heart-rate one hundred six...
blood pressure one hundred forty
over ninety... you have completed
twelve sets of ten repetitions,
beginning set thirteen... heart-rate
one hundred eight...
The Computer continues as Ro and the Romulan
individually run through the room.
61 INT. CORRIDOR
Data and Geordi are still walking down the corridor.
They are both still following the tricorder readings.
62 INT. CREW QUARTERS #3 (OPTICAL)
The room has been set for a romantic evening. Soft
MUSIC is playing in the b.g.... the lights are DIM...
A MAN and a WOMAN are sitting at the table... the
remains of an intimate dinner still on the table before
them. He is feeding her oysters and there is a
sexually-charged tension between the two of them. She
eats the oyster and then washes it down with
champagne... he leans over and whispers something funny
into her ear... she laughs and runs a hand over his
cheek... then she picks up some food and feeds it to
him...
Midway through the above action, Ro suddenly races
INTO the room... but Parem is gaining on her and he
comes much closer behind her this time. He FIRES his
disruptor at Ro.
The blast HITS Ro in the leg and she goes down.
63 INT. CORRIDOR
Data and Geordi stop. They both react to an unusual
reading on the tricorder.
64 INT. CREW QUARTERS #3
Parem goes over to Ro, who is clutching her wounded
leg. In the b.g., the door CHIMES.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT FOUR 54.
64 CONTINUED:
PAREM
Get up.
The Man on the couch reluctantly goes to answer the
door. Parem yanks Ro to her feet and presses his
disruptor against her temple.
PAREM
(angry)
Where is the science officer?
Ro isn't going to help this guy. She stiffens
slightly... bracing herself for the disruptor blast.
Suddenly the doors OPEN and Data and Geordi ENTER.
Geordi reacts with shock to the sight of Ro and the
Romulan as Data calmly talks to the man.
GEORDI
RO!
DATA
(over action)
Excuse me for interrupting,
Lieutenant. I have detected a
chroniton field in this room.
May I scan the area for a moment?
Parem reacts as Geordi ENTERS the room. Ro takes
advantage of Parem's momentary inattention to KNOCK
the disruptor out of his hand. Parem knocks her to
the ground and goes for the disruptor.
65 GEORDI
rushes Parem...
66 PAREM
gets to the disruptor first. He picks it up and
turns...
67 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
But Geordi drops his shoulder and nails Parem with a
body tackle before he can turn the disruptor on Geordi.
The impact makes Parem DROP the disruptor and KNOCKS
him backwards... THROUGH THE WALL and out into SPACE.
Through the window, we see him FLOAT away into space.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/18/92 - ACT FOUR 55.
68 OMITTED
69 INT. CREW QUARTERS #3
As before. Geordi moves over to Ro as Data finishes
checking the room with his tricorder in the b.g. Ro
picks up the fallen disruptor.
RO
Thanks.
GEORDI
Any time.
They both try to catch their breath for a moment...
DATA
(to Man)
Your room is heavily contaminated
with chronitons. This will only
take a moment.
Data begins methodically SPRAYING the room with the anyon
emitter like some space-exterminator. The Man and Woman
exchange looks... the mood has definitely been broken.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT FIVE 56.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
70 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard and McDowell are working at their stations.
Brossmer is working at the aft science station. Ro
and Geordi are looking over McDowell's shoulder.
GEORDI
(worried)
There's still no indication that
the Romulans set up a muon wave
in our dilithium chamber.
RO
(knowing)
It's there -- and when they go to
warp...
MCDOWELL
(off console)
Incoming message from the Romulan
ship, Captain.
PICARD
On screen.
GEORDI
(frustrated)
Now what?
71 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Mirok appears on the viewer.
MIROK
We have tested the engine core
and are ready to switch to
internal power, Enterprise.
PICARD
Understood.
(to McDowell)
Disconnect the power transfer
beam.
McDowell works the console.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT FIVE 57.
71 CONTINUED:
MIROK
(off his console)
We are now on internal power.
(beat)
Captain Picard, Commander Riker,
please accept my sincere thanks
on behalf the Romulan Empire.
RO
Don't listen to him, Captain --
PICARD
It was our pleasure, Mirok. I
hope that this example of
cooperation between our two people
is not an isolated incident.
MIROK
(smiles)
As do I, Captain.
Mirok's image disappears and is replaced with the star
field.
PICARD
(to Con Officer)
Set a course for the Garadius
system.
(raises his hand)
Warp six...
GEORDI
(urgent)
No, Captain -- wait --
RO
(simultaneously)
Don't do it, sir --
But Brossmer interrupts Picard before he can say
"Engage."
BROSSMER
Captain.
(Picard looks at her)
I'm still running the
decontamination program. Mister
Data believes we shouldn't engage
the warp drive until I've cleared
all the chroniton fields from the
ship.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT FIVE 58.
71 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
Very well. Let me know when your
sweep is finished.
BROSSMER
Yes, sir.
Picard sits at command. Ro and Geordi are vastly
relieved... they have been granted a reprieve.
RO
If we go to the locations where
she's decontaminating... maybe
the anyon emissions will rephase
us enough for someone to see us.
GEORDI
The beam strength would have to
be pretty strong for us to become
visible for more than a
millisecond. Someone would have
to be looking right at us.
RO
Then we better go someplace with
a lot of people.
Riker ENTERS from turbolift.
RIKER
Captain... it's time. We'd better
go.
Picard looks at him and knows that it's time. His
attitude becomes more somber. Picard takes a beat,
then turns to McDowell.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/16/92 - ACT FIVE 59.
71 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
Mister McDowell, you have the
bridge. I'll be... at the service
in Ten Forward.
GEORDI
(quickly to Ro)
Ten Forward. That's perfect.
(on the move)
We'll create as many chroniton
fields in there as we can... get
them to flood the room with a
stronger beam.
Geordi and Ro follow Picard and Riker to the turbolift.
They all ENTER the turbolift.
CUT TO:
72 OMITTED
73 INT. TURBOLIFT
PICARD
Deck Ten.
They ride for a brief moment in silence, then, in a
nostalgic mood...
PICARD
I've been thinking about the first
time I met Geordi La Forge. He
was a young officer assigned to
pilot me on an inspection tour...
I made some off-hand remark about
the shuttle's engine efficiency
not being what it should... the
next morning I found he'd stayed
up all night refitting the fusion
initiators.
(beat)
I knew right then that I wanted
him with me on my next command.
A silence as both men reflect on this.
PICARD
Have you decided what you're going
to say about Ensign Ro?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/17/92 - ACT FIVE 59A.
73 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Yeah, I have. It wasn't easy...
RO
What? What wasn't easy?
The turbolift stops and the doors open at this point.
Picard and RIKER walk out.
RO
(frustrated)
What?
But suddenly they react to a loud NOISE coming from Ten
Forward -- music, people laughing, etc. Exchanging
curious glances, they proceed toward the room.
74 INT. TEN FORWARD (OPTICAL)
Picard and Riker ENTER, followed by Geordi and Ro.
They all stop in some amazement at the scene that
greets them. It's a party, in full swing. The
atmosphere is lively and bright, with food and drink in
evidence. A JAZZ COMBO plays something uptempo and
cheerful.
Picard and Riker exchange puzzled looks, then spot Data
and start across the room to him, leaving Geordi and Ro
behind. Ro seems stunned.
RO
What's going on here?
Geordi doesn't answer, and she turns to look at him.
He is standing and surveying the scene, a smile on his
lips.
GEORDI
It's our memorial service.
RO
(in disbelief)
This?
GEORDI
Why not?
RO
I can't believe this... they think
we're dead... and they're having
a party...
GEORDI
(pleased)
Yeah. It's perfect.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/25/92 - ACT FIVE 60.
74 CONTINUED:
She stares at him, and he goes back into business mode.
GEORDI
Come on... let's get started.
Ro takes the disruptor from her hip and begins to FIRE
it at the walls. She continues to FIRE during the
following scenes.
74A PICARD & RIKER
As they eye the crowd.
PICARD
Well. This is... unusual.
RIKER
Yeah... but I think I like it.
Riker spies a trombone sitting conspicuously on a stand
near the musicians. Riker heads for the band.
74B RO & GEORDI (OPTICAL)
As Riker barrels right by her --
RO
Now I suppose I'll never know what
you were going to say about me.
And she fires another BLAST in frustration. Riker
picks up his trombone and begins to play.
74C DATA & BEVERLY & WORF
They're near the bar. Geordi moves to a position to
overhear this conversation.
DATA
But... do you think the others
will think this service is --
appropriate?
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/20/92 - ACT FIVE 61.
74C CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Look around you, Data. People
are sharing memories of Geordi
and Ro... talking, laughing...
I don't know what could be more
appropriate.
DATA
I am glad you approve, Doctor.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
Brossmer to Commander Data.
DATA
Go ahead, Chief.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
Sir, we've cleared the critical
areas of chronitons... but we've
detected a new field forming in
Ten Forward that is stronger than
any we've seen before. Should
I wait until the service is over
before beginning decontamination?
Ro and Geordi exchange looks... this is it.
DATA
No. Anyonic emissions are
harmless. Please begin
immediately.
Geordi and Ro moves a little away from Data and Troi,
positioning themselves to be seen.
GEORDI
Here we go...
The SOUND of the anyon effect is heard.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/25/92 - ACT FIVE 62.
74C CONTINUED: (2)
Geordi and Ro REACT SLIGHTLY... as if hit with a MILD
electric shock. Geordi quickly moves to Worf, who is
calmly drinking at the bar.
GEORDI
Worf! Worf, can you see me?
Worf continues to placidly drink and sample the food
at the bar. Geordi and Ro move away from him in
frustration.
RO
We have to find a way to increase
the emission strength.
They are now close enough to Picard and Beverly to
overhear the following:
PICARD
(to Beverly)
... if she hadn't lost her rank
following the incident at Garon
Four, I think she would've made
lieutenant commander by now.
N.D. ENSIGN'S COM VOICE
Bridge to Captain Picard.
PICARD
(to com)
Go ahead.
N.D. ENSIGN'S COM VOICE
Incoming message from Garadius
Four, sir. The diplomatic
situation is deteriorating. They
want an update on our ETA.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/25/92 - ACT FIVE 63.
74C CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
Stand by, Ensign.
Picard moves to Data as Geordi and Ro react.
GEORDI
(urgent)
We've got to do something now,
before they go to warp.
RO
(quickly)
The disruptor... I can set it on
overload.
GEORDI
Do it.
As Ro sets the disruptor, Picard begins talking to
Data.
PICARD
Excuse me, Mister Data.
(Data turns)
Ro finishes making her adjustments and presses a final
button. A LOUD WHINE comes from the weapon. Ro sets
it down.
RO
Let's go!
They go streaking for the farthest point in the room.
Picard's following dialog should take place over the
above action.
PICARD
(over action)
I'd like to get under way as
soon as possible. The situation
on Garadius Four is becoming
serious.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/25/92 - ACT FIVE 63A.
74D
thru OMITTED
75A
75B WIDEN (OPTICAL)
The WHINE grows LOUDER. Then the disruptor EXPLODES
in a blinding FLASH. No one pays any attention. Only
Geordi and Ro are affected, and stumble against a far
wall as the blast reaches them.
DATA
I see no reason to delay our
departure, Captain. The chroniton
fields have been cleared from all
critical areas.
PICARD
Excellent.
Ro and Geordi approach once more.
PICARD
(hits combadge)
Mister McDowell, set course for
Gardius Four and engage at---
Brossmer suddenly interrupts with an urgent message.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
(urgent)
Commander Data, chroniton field
strength in Ten Forward has just
increased by three thousand
percent.
DATA
(puzzled by this)
Curious.
(to Picard)
I believe it would be best if we
decontaminate this room before
getting underway, sir.
PICARD
Very well.
DATA
(to com)
Chief Brossmer, increase anyonic
emissions to six thousand
particles per second and
decontaminate the area.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/25/92 - ACT FIVE 63B.
75B CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(to Ro)
Hang on.
The SOUND of the anyon beam is HEARD again. This time
Geordi and Ro feel like they're hit with a STRONGER
electric SHOCK. They wave their arms and try to get
someone's attention.
GEORDI
Data, we're here! Can you see
us?
75C CLOSE ON PICARD
as he reacts to something.
75D GEORDI AND RO - PICARD'S POV (OPTICAL)
MATERIALIZE for a flickering instant, almost
subliminally, arms waving. The SOUND stops. Note:
Only a few people in the room see this -- everyone else
continues to drink, laugh, be merry, etc.
75E BACK TO PICARD AND DATA
PICARD
(to Data)
Did you see that?
DATA
(puzzled)
Yes, sir.
Ro and Geordi react with joy...
RO
Yes.
GEORDI
Come on, Data... put it together
now...
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/25/92 - ACT FIVE 63C.
75E CONTINUED:
PICARD
It wasn't ghosts, Mister Data...
what did we see?
Data's circuits are racing, trying to put together
information.
DATA
Captain, I may know what has
happened...
GEORDI
Please be right, Data...
DATA
(musing, half to
himself)
... it would explain the mysterious
chroniton fields...
RO
Yes, yes, yes...
DATA
... if they were cloaked in some
way...
PICARD
Are you saying you think they're
still alive?
DATA
If I am right, they are -- and
in this room. Their brief
appearance coincided with the
anyonic sweep. Perhaps the anyons
neutralize the cloaking effect.
(touches combadge)
Data to Chief Brossmer. Set the
anoynic beam to its highest level
and flood Ten Forward.
BROSSMER'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir.
Picard and Data look a bit puzzled; Geordi and Ro brace
themselves.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/20/92 - ACT FIVE 63D.
76
thru OMITTED
78
79 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Conversation in the room comes to a halt as everyone
looks at the shapes MATERIALIZING before them. Finally
the shapes resolve themselves and Ro and Geordi APPEAR.
They stagger to their feet as a shocked hush fills the
room.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/20/92 - ACT FIVE 64.
79 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(urgent, to Data)
Data -- Can you see me?
Data is probably the only one in the room capable of
answering that question at the moment.
DATA
(simply)
Of course.
GEORDI
(hits badge)
La Forge to engineering. Take
the warp engines off-line until
further notice.
(to Data)
There's a muon wave build-up in
the dilithium chamber.
Beat.
ENSIGN'S COM VOICE
(confused)
Who gave that order?
Picard recovers from his shock before anyone else.
PICARD
(to com)
That was Commander Geordi La
Forge, Ensign. Please follow his
instructions.
ENSIGN'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir.
Everyone is still staring at Geordi and Ro.
GEORDI
Looks like a great party. Mind
if we join you?
That breaks the shocked silence, and everyone crowds
around Geordi and Ro, amazed and curious.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/19/92 - ACT FIVE 65.
80 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at impulse.
81 INT. TEN FORWARD
The party is over, the place is a mess and there is
no one there -- except Geordi and Ro, sitting at a
table. It is heaped with food. Geordi is still eating
ravenously, but Ro is not showing much interest in the
food.
GEORDI
Could you pass the rolls?
Ro passes a plate, but is clearly preoccupied.
RO
You've been eating for an hour...
GEORDI
We didn't have anything to eat
for almost two days. I'm starved.
Ro nods and smiles wanly.
STAR TREK: "The Next Phase" - REV. 3/20/92 - ACT FIVE 66.
81 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
What's wrong?
RO
Nothing...
She begins drawing little circles on the table with
a bread stick.
RO
I was raised with Bajoran
beliefs... and I even followed
some of the practices, but...
I never really believed in life
after death. Then suddenly I was
dead and there was another life.
It made me feel like I'd been...
pretty arrogant to discount all
I'd been taught. Now... I don't
know what to believe...
Geordi puts down his fork and considers her for a
moment.
GEORDI
Maybe we should develop our own
interphase device...
(off her look)
... if it can teach Ro Laren
humility, it can do anything.
She looks at him... there's a beat... and then they
both share a laugh.
RO
You know... I think I am hungry
after all.
He grins and passes her a plate of food and they dig
in.
81A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
warps away.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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