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startrek-ml/Data/StarTrekTheNextGeneration/217.txt
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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Outcast"
#40275-217
Teleplay by
Jeri Taylor
Directed by
Robert Scheerer
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 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 This script is not for publication or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
JANUARY 2, 1992
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Outcast"
CAST
PICARD SOREN
RIKER KRITE
DATA NOOR
BEVERLY
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
SUPERNUMERARIES MISC. J'NAII
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Outcast"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM SHUTTLE
TEN FORWARD
SICKBAY
ENGINEERING
SHUTTLE BAY
CORRIDOR
DATA'S QUARTERS (POKER GAME)
TROI'S QUARTERS
RIKER'S QUARTERS
SHUTTLE
J'NAII PLANET
CIVIC CHAMBER
COURTYARD GARDEN
WOODS
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"The Outcast"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at impulse.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45614.6.
We have been contacted by an
androgynous race called the J'naii
to investigate the disappearance
of a shuttlecraft.
2 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD, RIKER, WORF, DATA, SUPERNUMERARIES, and several
J'naii, including SOREN and KRITE. The J'naii are a
genderless species; Soren and Krite, like the others,
possess no demonstrable sexual characteristics. All
the J'naii look remarkably alike: strikingly
attractive, with lithe, slim bodies and chiseled,
delicate features. Soren is near Riker; Krite at an
aft station.
DATA
We are approaching the designated
coordinates, Captain.
PICARD
On screen.
2A ANGLE - VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
It shows the starfield -- no sign of a shuttlecraft.
PICARD
Long-range scan, Mister Data.
Data enters commands.
DATA
Sensors find no evidence of the
shuttle anywhere within the star
system.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - TEASER 2.
2A CONTINUED:
SOREN
It couldn't have travelled outside
the system.
RIKER
Mister Data, reconfigure for a
high-resolution sweep with a
radius of one million kilometers.
Look for possible debris.
Data works controls once more.
DATA
Scan shows no debris within
that radius.
KRITE
I don't understand it. A
shuttle doesn't simply vanish.
Soren turns to Riker, frustrated.
SOREN
There has to be an explanation...
But before Riker can answer--
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - TEASER 3.
2A CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
Captain, I am detecting an unusual
reading... It appears to be a
neutrino emission with no visible
source.
PICARD
Explanation?
DATA
I have none. I recommend we
launch a probe.
PICARD
Make it so.
Soren peers intently at the viewscreen.
WORF
The probe is launched.
A probe shoots off from the Enterprise and is clearly
visible on the viewscreen.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - TEASER 4.
2A CONTINUED: (3)
DATA
The probe is transmitting
information within normal
parameters. Sensors do not show
evidence of any unusual phenomenon
--
Suddenly the probe vanishes from the screen, and from
Data's instruments.
DATA
The probe is no longer
transmitting.
SOREN
What happened? Where did it go?
And on the various reactions around the bridge --
2B
thru OMITTED
2C
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 5.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
3 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit around a blue-green planet.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. The
sudden disappearance of our probe
suggests that we may have found
the first instance of what is
called null space -- an anomaly
which until now had been only
theoretical. Commander Riker has
been working around the clock with
a team of J'naii specialists to
formalize this hypothesis.
4 INT. J'NAII CIVIC CHAMBER - DAY (OPTICAL)
Riker, Soren, Krite, NOOR (head of government), and
other J'naii leaders are gathered to discuss the
situation. The room is not huge -- just larger than
the observation lounge.
Soren and Riker are standing near a monitor in the
wall, upon which an Okudagram illustrates the gases
and vapors that swirl into the formation of a star.
SOREN
During the creation of a star
system, when clouds of
interstellar dust and gas
coalesce... turbulent regions of
magnetic and gravitational fields
may develop.
The monitor reflects this, showing dense fields of
disturbance.
SOREN
If certain conditions occur,
these fields can condense into
abnormal pockets of space.
Soren turns and glances at Riker. He and Soren have
been working together on this project, and there's
already an easy familiarity between them.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 6.
4 CONTINUED:
RIKER
We think your system contains one
of these null pockets.
Riker pushes controls and the monitor shows a star
system in which one section, or "pocket" is
significantly different from the space surrounding it.
Riker points to it.
RIKER
If we're right, this pocket would
absorb electromagnetic energy from
anything that entered it...
SOREN
Like a shuttlecraft.
RIKER
Or a probe. Making them
powerless.
SOREN
But outside the pocket, all energy
is bent around it -- making it
naturally cloaked. That's why
we can't see it, and sensors don't
read it.
NOOR
Is the shuttle still there?
RIKER
We think so. The ship probably
couldn't sustain its power...
but other than that it wouldn't
be damaged.
SOREN
Since our shuttles carry
plestorene-based backup systems,
we think life support would
sustain for as long as ten days.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 7.
4 CONTINUED: (2)
NOOR
Then perhaps our crew has
survived...
RIKER
We can send one of our shuttles
into the null space -- but its
energy output would be absorbed
as well. Our chief engineer is
working on a way to maintain the
power reserves long enough to
rescue your crew.
NOOR
Commander... we're grateful for
your help.
(rising)
Whatever resources we can provide
are yours.
Noor heads for the door, followed by the others.
Riker turns to Soren.
SOREN
I've been thinking... when the
time comes, I'd like to pilot the
shuttle.
Riker is a little surprised at this.
RIKER
It's a Starfleet craft...
SOREN
I can't ask you to put yourself
in danger to rescue our crew.
RIKER
You can't pilot a shuttle you're
not familiar with.
Soren hesitates, realizing the truth of what he's
saying... but not wanting to give up.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE 7A.
4 CONTINUED: (3)
SOREN
I happen to be a good pilot...
A beat.
RIKER
I happen to be a good pilot, too.
I also know my way around
Starfleet shuttles. So... what
if we team up?
Soren considers, looks at him, smiles.
SOREN
When can we go over your shuttle
flight operations?
RIKER
Right now.
And he gestures Soren out of the room.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 8.
5 INT. SHUTTLE BAY
Riker and Soren walk around the shuttlecraft.
RIKER
It's a short-range craft... with
two twelve-hundred fifty
millicochrane warp engines...
SOREN
Looks like microfusion
thrusters...
RIKER
Right.
SOREN
Armament?
RIKER
Usually none. But it's been
fitted with two type-four phaser
emitters... we'll use them to
chart the null space.
SOREN
(puzzled)
Chart it?
RIKER
Commander La Forge wants to get
an idea of how big this pocket
is. He thinks the rate of energy
absorption will be linked to its
size.
SOREN
I'm not sure how we go about
mapping something we can't see...
RIKER
That's where the emitters come
in. We'll shoot a series of
photon pulses into the pocket and
chart the points where they
disappear. We should be able to
plot a fairly complete outline
that way.
Soren gives him a look and smiles, nodding. She turns
to ENTER the shuttle.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 9.
5 CONTINUED:
SOREN
Let's take a look at the controls.
Soren enters the shuttlecraft, followed by Riker.
5A INT. SHUTTLE
They sit at the controls.
RIKER
Maybe later we can try a flight
simulation, but first let's do
a systems review.
(taps controls)
I'll walk you through it...
Soren gives him a quick look, puts hands on the
controls.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 10.
5B CLOSE ON MONITOR (OPTICAL)
The monitor on the panel jumps to life, scrolling
through a systems review.
5C BACK TO SCENE
SOREN
Propulsion system... transfer
conduits... where's the schematic
of the reactor assembly? Oh,
there it is... engine nacelles...
She looks over at Riker, who is watching her go through
the review at top speed.
SOREN
There's nothing here that's
unfamiliar.
She continues manipulating the console like a pro.
SOREN
Navigational deflector...
redundant graviton polarity source
generators...
Riker is watching in admiration.
RIKER
You're handling those controls
like you grew up in a shuttle...
SOREN
I did. My parents were pilots.
I started flying with them before
I could walk. And as soon as I
was old enough, I entered flight
school. Krite was my instructor.
RIKER
He had a good student.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 11.
5C CONTINUED:
Soren looks at him, coolly amused.
SOREN
"He?" Commander, there are no
"he's" or "she's" in a species
without gender.
Riker grins, throws up his hands.
RIKER
Okay. For two days I've been
trying to construct sentences
without personal pronouns. I give
up... what should I say? "It?"
To us, that's almost rude.
SOREN
We use a pronoun which is neutral.
But it doesn't really have a
translation.
RIKER
(good-naturedly)
Then I'll just have to muddle
through... so be tolerant if a
stray "he" or "she" slips by,
okay?
Soren smiles at him and they work for a beat more.
SOREN
Well, if that's the systems
review, I don't see any problems
here. What's next?
Riker smiles in admiration for this quick study.
RIKER
Lunch.
Soren looks at him. Smiles.
6
thru OMITTED
7
8 INT. TEN FORWARD
Riker at a table with Soren. In the background, beyond
them, is a couple in intimate conversation, heads
close. We will see them later. A waiter has just set
bowls of soup on Riker's table.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE 12.
8 CONTINUED:
Soren peers down at it, puzzled.
SOREN
What is it?
RIKER
Split pea soup. My father's
recipe. I had it programmed into
the replicators.
Soren takes a spoonful, touches her tongue to it.
(NOTE: From this point on, for the sake of
convenience, feminine pronouns will be used in
reference to Soren.) She tastes it, is not displeased,
takes a little more.
RIKER
Well?
SOREN
Unusual... but I think I like
it...
RIKER
It's very healthy. Helps keep
you warm on a cold Alaskan night.
SOREN
We prefer to stay warm by sleeping
with a friend.
The statement is startling in its casualness. Riker
looks at her, taken aback.
RIKER
I see...
SOREN
(explaining)
Not to mate... just to sleep
together. For warmth.
RIKER
Sounds better than pea soup.
Soren gives him a direct, penetrating look.
SOREN
We are puzzling to you, aren't
we?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE 13.
8 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
A little. It's hard to grasp the
idea of having no gender...
SOREN
It's just as hard for us to
understand the strange division
you have in your species... males
and females.
Riker can't help but smile. Soren's gaze drifts to
the couple in the corner, who are being openly
affectionate with each other.
SOREN
You... are male.
Riker nods, not certain where this is leading.
SOREN
Tell me... about males. What is
it that makes you different from
females?
A tall order. Riker considers.
RIKER
Snips and snails and puppy dog's
tails...
She stares at him, dumbfounded.
SOREN
You have a dog's tail?
RIKER
(laughing)
That's an old nursery rhyme.
Girls are made of sugar and spice.
Boys are made of snips and
snails...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 14.
8 CONTINUED: (3)
SOREN
That makes it sound better to be
female.
RIKER
It's an old fashioned way of
looking at the sexes. Not to say
that there aren't real
differences. Physically, men tend
to be bigger... stronger in the
upper body. We have different
sexual organs. Men don't bear
young...
SOREN
What about... feelings? Emotional
attitudes? Are they different?
RIKER
Well... most people think so.
But that's the kind of question
that might take an hour or two
to answer.
She smiles and glances again at the affectionate
couple.
RIKER
Let me ask you...
(struggling a bit)
What's it like... on a planet where
the people have no gender?
She gives him a curious look.
SOREN
I'm afraid I don't understand.
RIKER
Well... who leads when you dance?
If you dance...
SOREN
We do... and... whoever's taller
leads.
She gives him a direct look, and he can't tell whether
she's kidding or not. He keeps it in a playful mode.
RIKER
Without the "battle of the
sexes"... you probably don't
have as many arguments...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE 14A.
8 CONTINUED: (4)
She regards him with amusement.
SOREN
Just because we don't have gender
doesn't mean we don't have
conflict. We're very strong-
minded... we love a good fight.
He eyes her, taken by her wit and her forthrightness.
RIKER
Sounds like there aren't that
many differences between your
species and mine...
She smiles, looking directly at him.
SOREN
Maybe not.
Soren hesitates only briefly before the next question,
which she asks casually.
SOREN
What kind of woman do you find
attractive?
Riker gives her a slight look, wondering where this
questioning is coming from.
RIKER
I like a woman who's intelligent
and sure of herself... somebody
I can talk to and get something
back.
(beat)
But the most important thing of
all -- she has to laugh at my
jokes.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE 15.
8 CONTINUED: (5)
Soren does.
SOREN
And is that the kind of woman all
human males prefer?
RIKER
Not at all. Some men like quiet,
demure women... others prefer a
lot of energy... some respond only
to physical attractiveness...
others couldn't care less. There
aren't any rules.
She smiles at him. Her eyes flicker over to the
couple, who exchange a brief kiss.
SOREN
You make it sound very complex.
RIKER
Believe me -- it is.
Soren looks into his eyes. A subtle but unmistakable
change comes over her... the look is seductive. Her
voice takes on a sensuous tone.
SOREN
Perhaps it is that complexity...
which makes differences in the
sexes... so interesting.
She smiles at him, leaning forward slightly, waiting
for a response. Riker is taken aback. He stares at
her, not sure how to respond. He is rescued from the
dilemma by the arrival of Krite, who approaches the
table from behind Soren.
KRITE
Good evening, Commander.
RIKER
Good evening.
SOREN
(rising)
Please take my place, Krite. I
have to be going.
Riker looks up at her; she has undergone another
transformation. Gone is the seductiveness, the
alluring voice, the pliant body language. She is erect
and formal -- a typical J'naii.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE 15A.
8 CONTINUED: (6)
SOREN
Thank you for going over the
flight protocols, Commander. It's
been very helpful.
And she walks away, Riker looking after her, puzzled.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 16.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
10 EXT. SPACE - SHUTTLE AND ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as the shuttle moves away from the Enterprise.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45616.3.
Commander Riker and the J'naii
pilot have set out on a mission
to chart the null space pocket.
If they are successful, we can
then proceed with a rescue
attempt.
11 INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
Riker and Soren.
SOREN
I've illuminated the delta-four
grid map. We can start there and
then expand.
RIKER
Stand by forward phaser array...
Riker hits controls, and he and Soren begin their
collaborative charting effort.
12 EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
A thin stream shoots from the shuttle but quickly runs
into an "invisible wall" -- the stream disappearing
into the null space.
13 INT. SHUTTLE
as Soren measures.
SOREN
The pulse vanished at delta
four-point-two by point three.
RIKER
Firing second burst...
SOREN
Delta four-point-four by point
five.
Riker glances at the monitor.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 17.
13AA ANGLE - MONITOR (OPTICAL)
which shows a gradually lengthening curved line -- the
outline of the null space pocket.
RIKER
It's working. I think we'll be
able to give Commander La Forge
the information he needs.
SOREN
Delta four-point-five by point
seven...
RIKER
I'm initiating computer task
hand-off...
13AB RIKER AND SOREN (OPTICAL)
as they settle into an easy rhythm, a give-and-take
that becomes unspoken as they anticipate and respond
to each other's moves. Presently, Soren glances over
at him.
SOREN
Commander... tell me about your
sexual organs.
Riker gives her a startled look.
RIKER
Ahhh...
SOREN
Is that an uncomfortable subject
for Humans?
RIKER
No... but it doesn't tend to be
a topic of casual
conversation...
SOREN
I'm interested in your mating
practices... what is involved
when there are two sexes.
Riker takes refuge in a moment of distraction from
their mapping project.
RIKER
Correcting course... zero-two-one
mark zero...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 18.
13AB CONTINUED:
The graph is gradually taking fuller shape, delineating
the outline of the null pocket. Soren looks at him...
he looks over at her, sees her watching, waiting for
his response.
SOREN
Mating.
RIKER
Right. Well, it's pretty simple.
The men inseminate the women and
the women carry the babies.
Soren absorbs this.
SOREN
Our fetuses are incubated in
fibrous husks which both parents
inseminate. From what we know
of other species, our method is
less risky and less painful.
RIKER
(to himself)
And less enjoyable...
SOREN
(hearing him)
Less enjoyable?
RIKER
(trying to explain)
For Humans... the sexual act
brings a closeness... an
intimacy... it's a very
pleasurable experience...
(beat: on the other
hand)
Inseminating a husk...
Soren laughs at this.
SOREN
That's just the last step. Mating
is a long ritual for us... full
of variety and invention... I
assure you -- it's extremely
pleasurable.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 18A.
13AB CONTINUED: (2)
Riker turns his attention to the controls once more.
RIKER
I'm picking up a neutrino
emission... from within the null
space.
SOREN
That may be coming from our
shuttle. I'll note these
coordinates.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 19.
13AB CONTINUED: (3)
They work for a moment in silence, then --
SOREN
I wonder...
A beat.
RIKER
What... ?
SOREN
If a Human and a J'naii would be
sexually compatible...
A provocative question. Riker doesn't know where it's
coming from.
RIKER
I don't know...
SOREN
Of course, it would never be
permitted.
RIKER
Why not?
SOREN
The idea of gender... it's
offensive to my people. You see,
long ago we had two sexes, as
you do. But we evolved... into
a higher form.
(beat)
I don't mean to sound insulting...
but on my planet we've been taught
that gender is...
(struggling for the
least offensive word)
...primitive.
RIKER
(good naturedly)
Primitive.
SOREN
Less evolved...
RIKER
Maybe so. But sometimes there's
a lot to be said for an experience
that's... primitive.
She gives him a look... then turns to her controls.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 19A.
13AB CONTINUED: (4)
SOREN
Delta-five grid is fully
plotted...
RIKER
(checking monitor)
Adjusting course... zero-two-nine
mark zero.
13A EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
as it turns slightly to port, the port engine nacelle
suddenly disappears, the re-appears. The shuttle
starts to go into a spin.
13B INT. SHUTTLE
where things are suddenly going crazy. The shuttle
rolls wildly as Soren and Riker try to regain control.
RIKER
The port engine is down...
SOREN
Reducing power in the starboard
nacelle...
RIKER
That's not enough... I have to
activate the maneuvering thrusters
to correct the spin...
He keys controls.
SOREN
Thrusters aren't responding...
She gets out of her seat and moves toward a wall panel.
SOREN
I'll try to reroute the firing
sequence...
RIKER
Inertial dampers are failing...
hang on!
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 19B.
13B CONTINUED:
Riker fights to correct the spin. But a wild roll
flips Soren and topples her onto the deck.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Enterprise to shuttle... do you
read me?
RIKER
Affirmative... we've lost an
engine...
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
We'll try to get a tractor beam
on you...
Riker is being pinned back in his seat by the G forces.
RIKER
(with difficulty)
The sooner the better...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 20.
13B CONTINUED: (2)
And the shuttle gradually stabilizes. As it comes
under control...
RIKER
Enterprise, we have an injury.
Transport Soren directly to
sickbay.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Right away, Commander.
And on Riker's concern --
14
thru OMITTED
15
15A EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise at rest.
16 INT. SICKBAY
Beverly ministers to Soren, who is sitting on a
bio-bed.
BEVERLY
It's just a mild concussion...
You're going to be fine.
(using tricorder)
This will reduce the inflammation.
She works for a beat, then --
SOREN
Doctor... you are female.
Beverly looks at her curiously.
BEVERLY
Yes...
SOREN
Forgive me... I don't mean to be
rude... but I'm curious. What
is it like?
A question Beverly's rarely had to consider.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 20A.
16 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Well... it's... just the way I
am. I've never thought about what
it's like.
SOREN
What is it that makes you female?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 21.
16 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
Very specific biological factors.
Females carry two X chromosomes,
males carry an X and a Y. Hormone
levels are distinctly different;
males produce primarily
testosterone, while women produce
estrogen. Our sexual organs are
very different -- females' are
geared to bearing and nursing the
young.
Soren takes this in for a moment.
SOREN
I've noticed... that you tend to
have longer hair... you arrange
it more elaborately... and you
apply color to your bodies.
Beverly is bemused by this objective assessment.
BEVERLY
Color... ?
SOREN
You put color on your mouths...
your eyes... your cheeks... even
your fingernails. The men don't.
BEVERLY
That's true...
SOREN
Why do you decorate yourselves
like that?
BEVERLY
It's a long-time custom... we're
used to it...
(beat -- with a smile)
... but I think the real reason
-- is to attract men.
SOREN
Really?
BEVERLY
Mmmm-hmmmm...
Soren ponders this a moment.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 21A.
16 CONTINUED: (2)
SOREN
Then... it's up to women to
attract the men?
BEVERLY
Oh, believe me, men want to be
attractive, too -- but they go
about it differently.
SOREN
No color...
BEVERLY
No color. They'd rather
pretend they're not doing
anything to attract a woman...
even when it's the most important
thing on their minds.
SOREN
It's very confusing.
(beat)
Are women considered superior?
Or are men?
BEVERLY
Neither. In the past, women were
often considered weak and
inferior. But that hasn't been
true for a long time.
SOREN
Do you... enjoy being a woman?
Beverly thinks, decides, smiles.
BEVERLY
Yes. As a matter of fact, I enjoy
it a lot.
Soren smiles at her, and at this point Riker ENTERS.
BEVERLY
Will... your co-pilot is fine.
The injury was minor.
Riker's smile toward Soren is relieved.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 22.
16 CONTINUED: (4)
RIKER
I'm glad to hear it.
Riker approaches her, and during the next, Beverly
picks up on the attitude... subtle but unmistakeable...
that Soren is very attracted to Riker.
SOREN
(lightly)
I'm afraid you're not rid of me
yet, Commander. I'll be able to
complete the mission.
RIKER
Then you should hear my new
regulation: no more gymnastics
in the shuttlecraft.
She smiles. He looks at her, a more serious tone
in his voice.
RIKER
I'm glad you're all right...
She hears the concern in his voice, flushes slightly,
looks down. She seems unaccountably nervous, and
Beverly takes note.
SOREN
What happened... why did the
shuttle go into a spin?
RIKER
Apparently, the port engine nacelle
nicked one of the protrusions from
the null pocket, and shut down.
SOREN
Are we still on schedule for the
rescue attempt?
RIKER
That depends on how you're doing.
She slips off the bed.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT TWO 22A.
16 CONTINUED: (4)
SOREN
I'm fine. We should check out
the port engine --
Riker puts his hands on her shoulders to restrain her.
She stops instantly, as though the touch has
electrified her.
RIKER
Whoa... let's get the doctor's
opinion first...
He takes his hands off her shoulders and she takes
a breath, turns to Beverly.
SOREN
Doctor... ?
BEVERLY
I don't see a problem. But if
you have any symptoms... headache,
dizziness -- come back.
SOREN
You have my word.
They EXIT, and Beverly looks after them, wondering if
she saw something -- something personal -- happening
between them.
17 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
A poker game in session -- Data, Worf, Troi, Beverly.
Troi is shuffling.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT TWO 23.
17 CONTINUED:
TROI
All right... this round, the game
is -- Federation Day.
Worf reacts with distaste.
WORF
What is that?
TROI
The Federation was founded in
Twenty-one-sixty-one. So twos,
sixes, and aces are wild.
Worf looks almost queasy.
WORF
That is a woman's game.
TROI
(unbothered)
Oh? Why is that?
She proceeds to deal.
WORF
All those wild cards... they
support a weak hand. A man's game
has no wild cards.
BEVERLY
Let me get this straight. Are
you saying it's a woman's game
because -- because women are weak
and need more help?
WORF
(why else?)
Yes.
BEVERLY
(with a sigh)
And just this afternoon I was
insisting to one of the J'naii
that those attitudes were nothing
but a distant memory.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 24.
17 CONTINUED: (2)
WORF
(a touch of scorn)
The J'naii...
He arranges his cards.
WORF
They bother me.
TROI
Why, Worf?
WORF
They just do.
She gives him a penetrating look.
WORF
They are all alike. No males.
No females.
TROI
I'm sure we're just as strange
to them.
Worf gives her an incredulous look.
BEVERLY
Well, one of them seems to be
overcoming the differences... at
least with regard to one of us...
They stare at her, uncomprehending.
WORF
What are you saying, Doctor?
BEVERLY
I could be wrong... but I get the
definite impression that Soren...
is attracted to Commander Riker.
They all take this in. Worf is certain in his
pronouncement.
WORF
A human and a J'naii?
Impossible.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO 25.
17 CONTINUED: (3)
DATA
(puzzled)
Why?
A long silence.
TROI
Good question. Worf?
Worf grunts and buries his nose in his cards.
WORF
With all the wild cards, it is
difficult to know exactly what
is in my hand.
(beat)
However, I will open with...
fifty.
Smiling, he pushes chips into the middle. The others
reevaluate their hands.
18 OMITTED
18A INT. SHUTTLE
Soren and Riker working on panels and controls inside
the shuttle.
SOREN
The port engine nacelle functions
are fully restored... maneuvering
thrusters are operational...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 26.
18A CONTINUED:
RIKER
The portable transporter array
is in. Once we get into null
space, we'll have to initialize
it before we transport the J'naii
crew to this shuttle. But there
should still be enough power left
to beam all of us back to the
Enterprise.
SOREN
Is the buffer field generator
installed?
RIKER
Not yet. Geordi figures it'll
be ready to go at oh-eight-hundred
hours tomorrow.
(to Soren)
We should adjust the engine
balance before that. Can you
access the starboard thrust
manifold?
She squeezes her self next to Riker, sitting on the
floor with her back to the wall. They are pressed
close. She now accesses the thrust manifold.
SOREN
There...
RIKER
Okay, calibrate it to arc at
six-point-three while I optimize
the plasma flow.
They work together for a beat. Riker is concentrating
intensely on his work. Soren sneaks a glance over at
him. Makes a decision. Takes a breath.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 26A.
18A CONTINUED: (2)
SOREN
Commander...
RIKER
Mmmmm?
SOREN
I'd like... to tell you something.
Something that's not easy to say.
RIKER
(still involved in work)
What's that?
SOREN
I... find you attractive.
Riker stops his work, turns to look at her.
SOREN
I'm taking a terrible risk,
telling you that. It means...
revealing something to you...
Something that, if it were known
on my planet, would be very
dangerous for me.
He stares at her, not knowing what she means.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT TWO 27.
18A CONTINUED: (3)
As Soren reveals her story, she is at first halting,
uncertain, and timorous.
SOREN
Occasionally, among my people,
a few are born who are --
different. Who are throwbacks
to the era when we all had gender.
Some are born with strong
inclinations toward maleness...
and some have urges to be female.
(beat)
I am one of the latter.
RIKER
I have to admit... I got the
feeling you were different.
SOREN
I was hoping you would. But in
front of Krite and the others,
I must be careful not to reveal
myself.
RIKER
Why?
SOREN
On our world these feelings are
forbidden. Those who are
discovered are shamed and
ridiculed. Only by undergoing
psychotectic therapy and having
all elements of gender eliminated
can they become accepted into
society again.
Riker is dismayed by her story.
SOREN
Those of us who have these
urges... live secret, guarded
lives.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 28.
18A CONTINUED: (4)
SOREN (cont'd)
We seek each other out... always
hiding, always terrified of being
discovered...
Riker is a bit overwhelmed by all this. His mind
struggles to accommodate the bizarre story she is
telling.
RIKER
How long have you known you were
like this?
SOREN
I've known I was different all
my life. But I didn't understand
how or why until I was older.
RIKER
And when you realized... what
then?
Soren pauses a moment, searching to provide a context
for the answer.
SOREN
I remember when I was very
young... before I understood what
I was... there was a rumor in
my school that one of the students
preferred a gender... in that
case, male. The children started
making fun of him... every day,
they got more cruel... They could
tell he was afraid... and that
seemed to encourage them.
(beat)
He appeared in class one morning,
bleeding... his clothes ripped.
He said he'd fallen down.
She takes a breath, trying to regain composure in the
face of this ugly memory.
SOREN
Of course the school authorities
heard about it... They took him
away and gave him psychotectic
treatments.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO 28A.
18A CONTINUED: (5)
SOREN (cont'd)
(beat)
When he came back... he stood in
front of the whole school and told
us how happy he was now that he
had been cured.
There is a long silence.
SOREN
After that... I knew how dangerous
it was to be different. And as
I got older, and realized what
I was, I was terrified.
(a breath)
I've lived with that fear ever
since.
RIKER
Do you have... relationships...
with others?
SOREN
Yes -- with those who have
discovered they are male.
Riker stares at her, mind reeling. She lifts a hand
and touches his face, gently.
SOREN
I've had to live a life of
pretense and lies. With you...
I can be honest.
He starts to speak, but she covers his lips with her
fingers.
SOREN
Don't say anything. Just... think
about it.
They look into each other's eyes for a moment more,
then Soren wriggles out and moves out of the shuttle.
Riker stares after her, a myriad thoughts and emotions
overwhelming him.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT THREE 29.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
19 INT. SHUTTLE BAY
Riker and Soren are preparing for the mission launch.
They are strangely silent, not meeting the other's eye.
Geordi emerges from the shuttle, where he's made a
flight check.
GEORDI
Okay, Commander, everything checks
out. The energy buffer is
installed and functioning. I
estimate it should reduce the
power drain to your systems by
about forty percent.
RIKER
Any guess how long we'll have?
GEORDI
Let just say... you don't want
to waste any time once you get
in there.
Geordi looks from Riker to Soren.
GEORDI
(to Soren)
You'll have to give him continuous
readouts on energy consumption.
I can't even predict if the drain
will be at a constant rate.
SOREN
I understand.
She casts a glance at Riker, who isn't looking at her.
Geordi looks from one to the other.
GEORDI
Then... that's it.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE 30.
19 CONTINUED:
Now Riker and Soren exchange glances. He gestures her
into the shuttle. She nods and ENTERS.
GEORDI
I'll monitor you as far as I can,
Commander. But once you get into
that pocket -- you're on your own.
RIKER
Since we don't know the condition
of the shuttle crew, I'll beam
us all directly to sickbay.
GEORDI
I'll notify Doctor Crusher to be
standing by.
Riker ENTERS the shuttle, closes the doors. Geordi
touches his combadge.
GEORDI
La Forge to bridge...
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard here...
GEORDI
We're ready to initiate shuttle
prelaunch sequence.
He turns and EXITS.
20 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Data, Worf, N.D.'s, and Krite at a science
station.
PICARD
Proceed, Mister Data.
DATA
(working controls)
Prelaunch sequence is underway.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Request flight clearance.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE 31.
20 CONTINUED:
DATA
Clearance is granted.
(beat)
The shuttle is underway.
PICARD
Good hunting, Commander.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Thank you, sir. See you for
dinner.
21 INT. SHUTTLE
Riker and Soren.
RIKER
Heading three-five-five mark
zero-one-two.
SOREN
Heading confirmed.
They fly in silence for a moment, each busy with
controls.
SOREN
Energy readings are normal, with
power reserves stabilized at one
hundred percent.
RIKER
Acknowledged.
SOREN
It's dead ahead, approximately
fifty kilometers.
RIKER
Riker to Enterprise. We're going
in.
Riker pushes controls and the ship moves forward.
22 EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
as it moves forward... and, as it reaches the "pocket,"
begins disappearing -- starting with the nose and
gradually all the way down the body of the craft.
Then, it is gone.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT THREE 32.
23 OMITTED
24 INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
Through the front window, we see a white glare -- null
space.
RIKER
(testing)
Riker to Enterprise...
(beat)
Riker to Enterprise...
No answer.
SOREN
(checking instruments)
Power reserves are down to
eighty-four percent.
RIKER
Look...
She looks up to see --
25 ANGLE THROUGH WINDOW (OPTICAL)
revealing the J'naii shuttle, very small, in the
distance.
RIKER
Try hailing them...
SOREN
Calling the "Taris Murn... " Do
you read me?
There is no response. Worried, she turns to Riker.
RIKER
I'm getting sensor readings.
They're unconscious -- but they're
alive.
(beat)
Stand by. I'm going to transport
them over here.
SOREN
Power reserves at sixty-eight
percent and dropping.
Riker keys controls.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT THREE 33.
26 ANGLE - INCLUDING REAR OF SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)
The shimmering EFFECT of MATERIALIZATION begins,
showing the shape of two unconscious forms. But the
signal doesn't hold and the EFFECT shimmers away.
RIKER
The null space must be affecting
the annular confinement beam...
SOREN
We used ten megajoules with that
attempt. We're down to
thirty-four percent of reserves.
RIKER
We can give it one more try. More
than that and we won't have enough
power to get ourselves out of
here.
Grimly, he keys controls again. The EFFECT shimmers
in, fades, reappears, pulses -- and, finally, holds,
as the two unconscious J'naii MATERIALIZE on the rear
deck of the shuttle. Soren immediately gets to her
feet and goes to them, inspects them.
SOREN
They need medical attention
quickly.
Riker rises and joins the huddle of figures.
RIKER
Okay. Stand by to transport to
the Enterprise.
He turns to a panel on the wall and enters coordinates.
RIKER
Here we go...
The EFFECT shimmers in again, DEMATERIALIZING the group
of four. There is an instant of clear screen, as
though they've made it -- but then they SHIMMER back
into view, then pulse a few more times, as though the
transporter is giving its all. But finally, the group
MATERIALIZES onto the rear deck of the shuttle, intact
-- and still inside null space.
Riker and Soren look at each other. It didn't work.
RIKER
Energy consumption?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT THREE 34.
26 CONTINUED:
SOREN
(checking controls)
We're down to nine percent. Will,
we don't have enough to get back.
Riker thinks for a moment, mind racing to figure a way
out of this predicament. Soren is using a tricorder,
inspecting the unconscious shuttle crew.
RIKER
If we just sit here, we'll lose
all our systems within an hour
-- including life support.
Riker turns to the controls, begins tapping
instructions.
RIKER
I'm rerouting the propulsion
system to the transporter...
(to Soren)
Rechannel the navigation
systems...
Soren obeys, working quickly.
RIKER
Let's transfer every microjoule
of energy we've got... sensors...
life support... this might give
us one last shot.
SOREN
An energy shift of that size...
it'll overload the phase
compensators... the shuttle --
RIKER
Will explode. But if we stay here
we're dead, anyway.
He works his controls once more.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT THREE 35.
26 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
Maximum energy levels in five
seconds...
He watches the console, monitoring the energy surge. A
HUM is swelling in intensity. Their eyes meet... a
charged look...
RIKER
See you in a minute.
He pushes controls and the shimmering EFFECT takes them
over, pulses slightly... the HUMMING sound gets
louder... they vanish... and the shuttle EXPLODES from
the force of the energy surge.
26A EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
as the shuttle explodes.
27 INT. ENTERPRISE - SICKBAY (OPTICAL)
as the two unconscious J'naii, and Riker and Soren
MATERIALIZE. Picard, Beverly and medical personnel,
and Krite are waiting for them. Beverly and her team
hurry to the J'naii; Krite follows.
KRITE
Doctor... ?
BEVERLY
(as she inspects them)
They've been oxygen-deprived...
but I don't think there's any
significant damage.
(to orderly)
Prepare some dexalin.
Relieved, Krite moves toward the others.
28 ANGLE - RIKER AND THE GROUP
KRITE
Commander -- thank you.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE 35-36A
28 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Your colleague Soren was a great
help.
KRITE
(to Picard)
Captain... if you would all join
us this evening... we would like
to express our gratitude...
PICARD
We'd be happy to.
Krite moves toward Soren.
KRITE
Noor will be eager to get a
first-hand report. We should
return to the surface.
Soren nods and turns toward Riker; their eyes meet.
SOREN
(formally)
I will see you tonight then,
Commander?
Riker inclines his head, just as formally, but still
holding her look. Krite notices the look, and then
Soren and Krite EXIT.
28A EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise in orbit of J'naii.
29 EXT. J'NAII PLANET - NIGHT
A courtyard/garden. To one side is the exterior wall
of the civic chamber; to the other are trees and greens
suggesting a secluded, wooded area. Riker is sitting
on a bench, listening to the SOUND of festivities
within. Presently, Soren appears.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE 37.
29 CONTINUED:
SOREN
There you are, Commander. I
wondered what had happened to our
guest of honor.
RIKER
Just getting some fresh air.
(beat)
I can take so much of these social
functions... then I need to
breathe a little.
She sits on the bench -- at a distance. She is erect
and proper.
SOREN
I would think you had attended
so many affairs like this it would
be second nature to you.
RIKER
I was raised in the outdoors.
I'm never that comfortable in
crowded rooms...
There is a silence. The tension between them is
palpable. Several of the J'naii from inside stroll
by. As though fearing exposure, Soren and Riker fall
into a polite formality.
SOREN
What do you think of our planet?
Isn't it beautiful?
RIKER
Yes. Quite beautiful.
SOREN
We have many varieties of plant
life...
(gesturing into the
woods)
Perhaps you would like to inspect
some of them.
RIKER
Yes, I would. I've always been
interested in exobotany.
She rises, maintaining the formal posture.
SOREN
Please. Let me take you on a
tour.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE 38.
29 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(rising)
Thank you. It's very kind of you.
They move off toward the woods. Camera pans back
toward the civic chamber. Standing in the darkness,
watching them, is Krite.
30 EXT. PLANET - INTO THE WOODS
Riker and Soren walk along a path. She points out
various trees and shrubs.
SOREN
One of my favorites is this
menellen tree. The leaves first
turn pure white, and then blue
when the weather gets cold...
They move on, deeper into the woods.
SOREN
This is called a falla bush...
it produces a fragrant flower on
only one day of the year...
She moves on... but Riker reaches out and takes her
arm, turns her back to him. They stand like that for
an instant, staring at each other, shrouded in the
cover of the woods, moonlight catching and reflecting
in Soren's eyes. She parts her lips... moves toward
him without even realizing she's doing it... and then
they are locked in one another's arms, kissing deeply,
as though it were the most natural thing in the world.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FOUR 39.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
31 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still in orbit of the blue-green planet.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45620.4.
We remain in orbit of J'naii,
charting the null pocket. We hope
that a detailed map of the anomaly
will prevent the loss of other
ships.
32 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS
Troi sits on her couch, inspecting the contents of a
box which rests on the floor. There are several
artifacts spread out on a coffee table -- small
figures, a doll, pictures, little books, etc. Troi
holds a larger book on her lap and is leafing through
the pages. The door CHIMES.
TROI
Come in.
The door opens and Riker ENTERS. She looks up, smiles
at him.
TROI
Hello, Will.
He comes to her, sits nearby, where he can see what
she's looking at.
RIKER
What's all this?
TROI
Wonderful things... my mother sent
me a box that belonged to one of
my father's ancestors. It had
been stored on Earth years ago
and just recently turned up.
Riker picks up one of the pictures.
RIKER
Do you know who these people are?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FOUR 40.
32 CONTINUED:
TROI
No. A few of the pictures are
marked with names... but most of
them aren't. I look at all these
faces... and wonder who they
are... if they might be related
to me...
Riker picks up a small, worn, stuffed animal and turns
it in his hands.
RIKER
(playful)
This one looks like you...
She smiles at him... there's a long beat between them.
Then--
RIKER
Deanna... I've got something on my
mind... and I had to see you...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 41-41A.
32 CONTINUED: (2)
TROI
Has something happened?
He looks up at her, nods.
RIKER
I've met someone... someone who's
becoming important to me...
TROI
Soren...
RIKER
Yes.
There is a moment as the two friends gaze at each
other, the look speaking of trust and affection that
is deep-seated.
RIKER
You're my friend... so it seemed
like...
(beat)
I'm not sure. It just seemed
right to tell you.
TROI
I'm glad you did.
RIKER
Nothing will change between us,
will it?
She smiles.
TROI
Of course it will. All
relationships are constantly
changing.
She reaches out and touches his cheek.
TROI
But we will always be friends.
Maybe even better friends.
You're part of my life, and I'm
part of yours. That much will
always be true.
He leans forward and they kiss, sweetly and tenderly.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 42.
33 INT. ENGINEERING
Riker and Soren work with Geordi; Krite and another
J'naii are in the background, monitoring a console.
Riker and Soren are in their formal mode.
GEORDI
Turns out the null pocket is even
more irregular than we expected,
Commander.
RIKER
Maybe its configuration is
shifting.
GEORDI
I don't think so... the
measurements you took are holding.
It just has more projections than
we thought. It's going to take
longer than we planned to get it
mapped.
No response from Riker or Soren, with whom the delay is
just fine.
GEORDI
I'm headed for the shuttle bay.
We're fitting another shuttle to
help in the survey.
Geordi turns and EXITS. Riker and Soren do not look
at each other.
RIKER
(casually)
Have you made plans for dinner
this evening?
SOREN
I have some paperwork to do...
I thought I'd start on it...
RIKER
I'd like to discuss some of our
suggestions for regulating travel
around the null space. Maybe we
could have an early dinner... so
you could still get your work done
afterwards.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 43.
33 CONTINUED:
SOREN
I'd like that.
RIKER
Nineteen hundred hours?
SOREN
That would be fine.
An innocuous enough exchange... they keep on working.
34 CLOSE ON KRITE
Observing them.
34A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still in orbit.
35 INT. CORRIDOR
Riker walks the corridor toward Soren's quarters, finds
the right one, presses the panel. The door opens to
reveal Krite. Riker is surprised.
RIKER
Hello. I'm here to see Soren...
KRITE
I know.
RIKER
We had an appointment.
(beat)
To discuss plans for regulating
the --
KRITE
I don't think so, Commander.
RIKER
Excuse me?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 43A.
35 CONTINUED:
KRITE
We know about the two of you.
We know what you're doing.
RIKER
(worried now)
Where's Soren?
KRITE
And we're going to make sure it
doesn't happen again.
RIKER
Answer me -- where is Soren?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 44.
35 CONTINUED: (2)
A little smile from Krite.
KRITE
Gone. In custody. And there's
nothing you can do about it.
Riker stares at him, mind racing, trying to figure what
to do. He makes a decision.
RIKER
The hell there isn't.
And he turns and strides down the corridor.
36 INT. PLANET CIVIC CHAMBER
Soren sits before a panel of "judges," including Noor.
A gallery of citizens fills the room.
NOOR
You are aware of the charges
against you?
SOREN
Yes.
NOOR
Do you intend to dispute them?
Soren does not answer.
NOOR
Well? What is your response?
Suddenly the doors to the chamber slam open and Riker
ENTERS, striding toward the judges' table amid the
hubbub of the startled onlookers. He marches right
toward Noor. Soren stares at him, astonished.
RIKER
Are you in charge here?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 45.
36 CONTINUED:
NOOR
Commander Riker -- these
proceedings are closed to anyone
but --
RIKER
I think I just opened them.
NOOR
Sir, this is a private matter.
We are grateful for your recent
help, but that gives you no right
to interfere with our personal
concerns --
RIKER
I want you to know what really
happened. It's all my fault.
I was attracted to Soren. I
pursued... I insisted. I didn't
understand your ways until Soren
told me. And rejected me.
Nothing happened between us.
He pauses, looking from one to the other for an
indication of their response.
RIKER
I ask your forgiveness. I
behaved... inappropriately.
Noor takes this in. Ponders it. Turns to Soren.
NOOR
Is this true?
Soren hesitates... looks at Riker. Then she rises,
moves toward Noor.
SOREN
No.
RIKER
Soren --
SOREN
(to Riker)
I am tired of lies.
She turns to Noor, head held high.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 46.
36 CONTINUED: (2)
SOREN
I am female. I was born that way.
I have had those feelings...
those longings... all my life.
She takes a breath, desperately hoping to communicate
to her countrymen.
SOREN
It is not unnatural. I am not
sick because I feel this way.
I do not need to be helped, and
I do not need to be cured. What
I do need -- what all of those
like me need -- is your
understanding and your compassion.
She walks along the line of her accusers.
SOREN
We do not injure you in any way.
And yet we are scorned, and
attacked. And all because we are
different.
A hush has fallen over the room as everyone listens
to her impassioned speech.
SOREN
What we do is no different from
what you do. We talk and laugh...
we complain about work and we
wonder about growing old... we
talk about our families, and we
worry about the future...
(beat)
We cry with each other when things
seem hopeless.
(beat)
All the loving things that you
do with each other... that's what
we do. And for that, we are
called misfits, and deviants...
and criminals.
She looks around at her countrymen, head high,
unafraid, angry.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 46A.
36 CONTINUED: (3)
SOREN
What right do you have to punish
us? What right do you have to
change us? What makes you think
you can dictate how people love
each other?
She looks straight at Noor, passion and conviction
burning in her eyes.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE 47.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
37 INT. CIVIC CHAMBER (OPTICAL)
Continuous action. Soren has just make her
declaration. Riker stares at her, knowing she has
fully incriminated herself. Noor is regarding Soren
with impersonal objectivity.
NOOR
I congratulate you, Soren. Your
decision to admit your perversion
makes it much more likely that
we can help you.
He lifts his hand to gesture toward guards.
RIKER
No, wait... you don't have to do
this...
Noor turns to him, mildly irritated.
NOOR
Commander?
RIKER
Let me take her away. She can
come with me, we'll give her
asylum on the Enterprise. You'll
never have to see her again.
Noor hesitates, as though considering the suggestion.
RIKER
That would solve the problem,
wouldn't it? You'd be rid of
her... she couldn't influence
anyone else...
Noor smiles gently at Riker, as though at a small child
who just doesn't get it.
NOOR
Commander, after Soren's diatribe,
you must think we are a cruel,
repressive people. Nothing could
be further from the truth.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE 48.
37 CONTINUED:
RIKER
I'm just trying to find a solution
that would satisfy everyone --
NOOR
In fact, we are a remarkably free
and open society. Our people have
rights and liberties which give
them a great deal of
self-determination. We are, by
all measurements, an enlightened
race.
RIKER
Then how is it... that Soren has
no choice about her sexual
orientation?
NOOR
We are concerned about our
citizens. We take our obligations
to them seriously. Soren is
sick... and sick people need to
get well.
RIKER
Did it ever occur to you she
might prefer to stay the way she
is?
NOOR
You don't understand. We have
a very high success rate in
treating deviants like this. And
without exception -- they have
become happier people after their
treatment. And grateful... that
we care enough to cure them.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE 49.
37 CONTINUED: (2)
NOOR (cont'd)
(beat)
You see, Commander... on this
world, everyone wants to be
normal.
RIKER
She is --
But Noor turns away from Riker and gestures to a nearby
functionary, who moves to Soren and takes her arm.
NOOR
Take her to quarters. Treatment
will begin tomorrow.
RIKER
Don't do this --
Riker moves toward her, but several of the J'naii step
between him and Soren, and a crowd envelops her,
whirling her away from him. The last he sees of her
is her head, twisting back to look for him, her eyes
wide and frightened, like a rabbit's as the eagle
swoops down.
RIKER
Soren --
Riker starts to plow through the group around him, but
Noor steps directly in front of him and fastens him
with a stern glance.
NOOR
No more, Commander.
Riker sees Soren disappear through a far door, knows
it's futile to go after her now. Glaring at Noor --
RIKER
(touching combadge)
Enterprise. One to transport.
The effect shimmers, and he DEMATERIALIZES.
38 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE 50.
39 INT. READY ROOM
Riker has finished telling the story to Picard, who
has taken it all in and is reflecting on it now.
RIKER
I can't just leave her there.
They'll give her these
psychotectic treatments...
(beat)
I don't know what to do.
Picard, troubled, looks at his first officer. He knows
that this is a matter of utmost import to Riker,
and wants to try to help.
PICARD
I could talk to Noor. Perhaps
there's a way to work this out
--
RIKER
(frustrated)
Sir, their minds are set. They
don't want to hear another
solution.
Picard takes this in, considers it.
PICARD
Then I'm not sure there's much
we can do.
Riker looks up at him. He speaks quietly, but with
resolve.
RIKER
There has to be.
He struggles to frame this in a way that Picard can
understand.
RIKER
My relationship with Soren isn't
trivial... she's very important
to me.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/7/92 - ACT FIVE 50A.
39 CONTINUED:
There is a beat as Riker seems to come to some inner
decision.
RIKER
It's my fault this has happened.
And I have to help her.
PICARD
Will, if you've come here for
sanction... to take matters into
your own hands... I can't give
it to you.
RIKER
I know that, sir. But I know
I have to do something.
Picard is alarmed at the direction this is taking.
PICARD
Interfering in the internal
matters of the J'naii is
prohibited by the Prime
Directive...
RIKER
I'm aware of that.
Picard senses that Riker is becoming more resolved
to act.
PICARD
If you violate it, you may be
putting your career in jeopardy.
Riker does not respond.
PICARD
Starfleet doesn't take these
matters lightly... and I can't
defend you if you go too far...
(beat)
Do you understand that?
RIKER
You've made yourself very clear,
sir.
Riker's implacability is deeply disturbing.
PICARD
Will... don't risk everything
you've worked for...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE 51.
39 CONTINUED: (2)
Riker rises.
RIKER
Thank you, sir. May I be excused
now?
There is a heavy beat before Picard nods. Riker turns
and wheels out, leaving a very concerned Picard.
40 INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS
Riker, still in uniform, is assembling some equipment
-- a phaser, binoculars, a few other tools. As he does
so, the door CHIMES. He looks up, hesitates to answer.
The door CHIMES again.
RIKER
Who is it?
WORF'S VOICE
Lieutenant Worf.
Riker conceals the small pack of equipment.
RIKER
Come in.
The door opens and Worf ENTERS, carrying a PADD.
WORF
Commander, I have the plan for
deploying warning buoys around
the null space.
RIKER
Fine. Just leave it, I'll look
at it later.
Riker has to work to control his impatience -- a fact
which Worf notices.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE 52.
40 CONTINUED:
WORF
Yes, sir.
But Worf doesn't turn to go. Riker stares at him.
RIKER
Thank you. You're dismissed.
WORF
Commander... I am aware of what
transpired on the planet's
surface...
Wary, Riker doesn't respond.
WORF
Are you by any chance considering
an... unannounced visit?
Again, Riker is silent, but this gives Worf the answer.
WORF
I will go with you.
RIKER
(starting to protest)
Lieutenant --
WORF
Sir... you are my commanding
officer... and if you order me
to stay on board, I will obey.
(beat)
But I ask you not to give that
order. A warrior does not let
a friend face danger alone.
Touched by Worf's steadfast loyalty, Riker nods.
WORF
I suggest we change clothing
first.
41 EXT. J'NAII PLANET - NIGHT
The courtyard/garden. Riker, now dressed in N.D. dark
clothing, is positioned in the woods, watching toward
the civic center. The building is lit, and there is
activity inside. Worf, also in dark clothing, comes up
to him through the trees.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE 52A.
41 CONTINUED:
WORF
The meeting is ending. I
think they will bring her out of
the building soon.
RIKER
Okay. They'll probably come
down that path... we can take
cover there --
(gesturing)
-- behind those rocks.
WORF
Yes, Commander.
RIKER
She'll be under guard... no
telling how many...
WORF
I will handle the guards. You
take her to cover.
Riker notices something in the building.
RIKER
Something's happening...
He lifts the binoculars, peers through them.
41AA
thru OMITTED
41AB
41AC CIVIC CENTER - HIS POV (OPTICAL)
Through a futuristic grid, an opening to the civic
chamber shows the J'naii moving about in the room.
RIKER
They're leaving.
41A ANGLE - ON WORF AND RIKER
as they emerge from the shadow of the trees. They
creep across the courtyard, moving from shadow to
shadow, toward the civic chamber. Several J'naii
EXIT into the courtyard. Riker and Worf take cover.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE 53.
41B ON THE J'NAII
Two J'naii walk by their position... neither one is
Soren.
41C RIKER AND WORF
glance at each other. Riker points toward the doors
-- opening once more.
41D THREE J'NAII
EXIT and walk off in another direction.
41E RIKER AND WORF
exchange another frustrated glance. Then Worf nods
toward the doors, seeing another group.
42 ANGLE - HALLWAY LEADING TO CIVIC CHAMBER
as Soren and two guards EXIT the structure, heading
down the path toward the courtyard.
42A ANGLE - RIKER AND WORF
exchange a look and crouch down. As the trio
approaches, Riker and Worf step out in front of them.
The guards react, surprised. Riker smiles at them,
ingenuously.
RIKER
Could you excuse us? I have to
talk to her...
But the guards go into attack mode, throwing punches
toward Riker. He blocks the blows and then Worf steps
in and engages the two of them. Riker takes Soren's
arm and pulls her toward the woods.
43 ON RIKER AND SOREN
hurrying into the woods.
SOREN
Wait...
RIKER
Don't worry... we'll be out of
here in a minute...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FIVE 54.
43 CONTINUED:
He is intent on getting to their prearranged meeting
place. They are pushing through bushes, shrubs, etc.
SOREN
Will, please...
RIKER
We're almost there...
Finally they move into a clearing, where they are
sheltered by trees and bushes, but moonlight
illuminates the clearing. Riker stops, turns to her.
SOREN
You can't do this...
RIKER
I won't let them hurt you. You'll
be safe on the Enterprise.
She turns away from him, silent. Puzzled, he takes
a step toward her.
RIKER
Soren...
She turns back, looking at him with curious detachment.
SOREN
I'm so sorry... it's my fault you
got involved in all this...
RIKER
It's going to be all right...
everything's going to be fine...
SOREN
No, it's not.
He stares at her, not comprehending her strange
attitude.
RIKER
What are you talking about?
SOREN
It was all a mistake. I should
have realized it from the
beginning...
RIKER
What... ?
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FIVE 54A.
43 CONTINUED: (2)
SOREN
That I was sick. I had these
terrible urges... that's why I
reached out to you... but it was
wrong. I see that now.
And now he understands. She's already been treated.
He is too late.
SOREN
(a little shake of her
head)
I don't understand how I could
have done... what I did.
He grasps for anything...
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FIVE 55.
43 CONTINUED: (3)
RIKER
Maybe... maybe Doctor Crusher
could treat you... bring you
back... to the way you were
before.
She smiles sadly at him, truly sorry for his pain, but
disconnected from it.
SOREN
Why would I want that?
RIKER
Soren... I love you.
She looks at him, not even vague regret in her eyes...
as though looking at someone she knows she once loved,
but can't remember why.
SOREN
I'm sorry.
And she turns and melts into the darkness. Riker
stares after her.
44 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit.
45 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Data, and N.D. personnel. Picard is forward,
talking to Data and the Conn Officer.
PICARD
How long to the Phelan system?
DATA
At warp six, fifty-three hours,
sir.
STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE 56.
45 CONTINUED:
The turbolift doors open and close, pulling Picard's
look. Riker EXITS the turbolift and starts down the
ramp.
PICARD
Commander... ?
Riker is impassive, his face revealing nothing, but
his voice is tight.
RIKER
Captain.
They hold a look for a moment. Riker sits.
PICARD
Starfleet has just sent a message
asking us to proceed to the Phelan
system to negotiate a trade
agreement.
RIKER
Yes, sir.
PICARD
I wasn't sure when to tell them
we'd be underway.
(beat)
Is our business with the J'naii
finished?
RIKER
Finished, sir.
There is another beat, and then Picard turns to the
Conn Officer.
PICARD
Very well. Ensign, take us out
of orbit, set a course for the
Phelan system. Warp six.
(beat)
Engage.
OFF Riker's reaction...
46 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
jumps into warp speed and away.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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